The French overseas territory of New Caledonia, with its population of just a quarter of a million, and its location far away from the main population center in the southwest of the Pacific, is not well known internationally for the gambling facilities it offers its visitors. Yet, there are two New Caledonia casinos in the capital Noumea, and so all but the most demanding gambler should find there are plenty of opportunities to try their luck on the slot machines or gaming tables.
Noumea, situated on the south of the main island, Grande Terre, has a population of nearly 100,000. In World War II, it was the headquarters of the US military in the Pacific, but today a lack of good air connections means that it is not well known by tourists. Both the New Caledonia casinos are located here, namely the Casino Royal and the Grand Casino.
The Grand Casino, on Pointe Magnin, found in the Le Meridien hotel, is the country’s premier gambling spot. It offers customers 210 slot machines, and for those with the confidence and money to play the gaming tables, 18 tables playing American roulette, baccarat, blackjack, and poker.
It’s not all gambling however....