Noumea la belle.

Greetings from the South Pacific. And from France's very own version of Hawaii. Well, that's how it seems.

The country bills itself as 'where the Cote d'Azur meets the South Pacific'. To be truthful, that's doing New Caledonia a huge disservice. It's far more beautiful, wild, crazy, classy and much, much friendlier than the Riviera.

So, I'm just quickly typing this on my balcony, looking out at the world's largest lagoon, watching folk doing what they do on the beach and the boats heading for the islands out by the reef. The sun is shining and it's about 28 degrees. Much more bearable than Japan!

The country is a French overseas territory and the evidence is everywhere - the buildings, the food, the clothes, the patisseries.... There is also much native culture too - including the spectacular Tjibao Cultural centre, designed by Renzo Piano and possibly the most amazing museum building I have ever seen.

Away from the beach and the scenery is stunning - mountains, lakes, forests. I've been beetling around in my rental car, getting generally lost and vexing the locals with my driving style!

I want to tell you lots about this amazing country - it truly is spectacular. But, alas, I'm more inclined to head down to the beach, get a cocktail and watch the sunset....

I'm sure you understand if I leave you for now and go get that drink...I've been working hard all day (yeah right) and deserve a wee libation!

A bientot, mes amis...