NEW CALEDONIA

The capital Noumea is called "The Paris of the Pacific", but it might be compared better to Saint-Tropez, Noumea has white pastel buildings that climb its hills and overlooks its golden beaches.It has fine French restaurants, shops with chic merchandise from Paris, and even a Cannes-like casino.

CLIMATE: Semitropical with two distinct seasons: a dry austral winter from June to September and a relatively humid summer from December to April.Winter temperatures average 21 'c (70?F); summer temperatures average 27'c (81'F).The water is relatively warm and and visitors can play in the ocean all year round.

VISITOR INFORMATION: Tourism Office de Nouvelle Caledonie, BP 2828 (ru d'Austerlitz) Noumea.

Tel: 277580.

Fax: 287585.

HOW TO GET THERE: Noumea is severed by Tontouta Airport (NOU) 47 km / 28 miles northwest of the city.There are international flights on Air Caledonie International from Nadi (Fiji) and Tahiti; or flights from Sydney, Melbourne, and Auckland on Air Caledonie International, Qantas Airways, or Air New Zealand.

Casino Royal / Le Surf Novotel ___ Roche a la voile, B.P.4230, Noumea.

Casino / Hotel Tel: 286688.

Fax: 285223.

Type: First class hotel & casino.

Location: On a rocky point between Anse Vata and Baie des Citrons in Noumea over looking the sea.

Casino: French style.

Games: slots & video poker, tables (blackjack, baccarat, roulette, punto y banco, American craps).

Open: 8pm-2am Mon.Thu., 8pm-3am Fri.-Sat., 2pm-2am Sun.

Admission: 400 CFP tables; Slots free.Must show passport.Drinks 350 CFP - 500 CFP.

Amenities: 253 rooms & suites, 3 restaurants, coffee shop, 2 bars, swimming pool, gym, sauna, spa pools, beauty treatments, boutiques.

Credit Cards: AE / DC / MCNISA.

Rates: CFP 14,800 - 36,000 Description: Le surf commands a panoramic view of the lagoon and the sea.The casino is reminiscent of Cannes with the women croupiers wearing long evening dresses and the men staff wearing traditional black tie.