Marriott enthused by New Caledonia collaboration

New Caledonia is enjoying a wave of popularity with tourists from Australia - and a new hotel expansion program is set to boost that appeal.

The Series by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio, this week announced its debut in New Caledonia in collaboration with Societe Hoteliere de Noumea (SHN). 

SHN's three flagship Le Domaine du Pacifique resort properties in Noumea, the Isle of Pines and Deva will join the Series by Marriott portfolio, aimed at showcasing the consistency of Marriott’s global standards. 

The three resorts each highlight an element of New Caledonia’s natural beauty, from lagoons and pristine beaches to forest reserves, "offering cultural richness with art, cuisine, heritage and tradition reflective of the authentic blend of Oceanian, French, and Asian influences within New Caledonian society". 

"Series by Marriott is a regionally created, globally connected collection brand that celebrates the individuality of destinations through authentic local experiences and trusted hospitality standards," said Cristiano Rinaldi, regional Chief Lodging Product & Services Officer for Marriott International. 

"The addition of these three distinctive resorts in New Caledonia is a significant milestone for the brand's growth in the Pacific."

Jason Nuell, regional vice president for Marriott International, was similarly enthused. 

"We are delighted to strengthen our longstanding relationship with Societe Hoteliere de Noumea and

introduce Series by Marriott to New Caledonia," he said. 

"Through this collaboration, guests will be able to enjoy memorable local experiences with modern design and warm hospitality, alongside the trusted consistency and Marriott Bonvoy member benefits they know from Marriott across the globe."

For further details visit the website here.

Hundreds stranded as chaos continues in Pacific paradise

It is not how most of us envisage New Caledonia. We tend to think of images like the one above.

But the political unrest in Noumea has led to scenes that are a long way from the idyllic beaches and French style we usually associate with the destination.

We've seen the ugliness on TV news bulletins; burning cars, smouldering buildings, broken windows and angry mobs roaming the streets.

They are scenes that will impact the tourism industry on Noumea for years to come.

France, the colonial ruling power, has declared as a state of emergency and extra police and troops are on the scene after six deaths.

The rioting followed planned changes to the New Caledonia constitution to allow long-term residents to vote in local elections, even if they no longer called the island home. 

Thousands of tourists, including Hundreds of Australians, now find themselves trapped on the island with their dream holiday having turned into a nightmare.

The airport, however, remains closed with protestors blocking entry roads.

Local carrier Aircalin, Qantas, Air New Zealand have all cancelled services indefinitely, while cruise ships are re-routing their ships.

Noumea has been one of the most popular and frequently visited destinations on cruise voyages from Australia. Whether that will return to normal remains to be seen.

Qantas has reported the airport will be closed until at least Tuesday. And those stranded have complained of zero assistance, or information, from consular officials and Australian government officials. 

To stay up to date see https://www.newcaledonia.travel/en