New Caledonia offers a wide range of efficient medical services in both public and private hospitals, and an adequate selection of chemists. Hotels can generally recommend an English-speaking doctor or dentist. However more serious cases may require evacuation to France or Australia. Health insurance is advised.
New Caledonia has many festivals that take place throughout the year. Besides the larger regional and national events, most villages will have special celebrations often related to food, harvest, sport, or religion.
New Caledonia has a special status of sui generis collectivity of France. It is located in the subregion of Melanesia in the southwest Pacific.