New Caledonia is a French territory comprising dozens of islands in the South Pacific. It's known for its palm-lined beaches and marine-life-rich lagoon, which, at 24,000-sq.-km, is among the world's largest. A massive barrier reef surrounds the main island, Grand Terre, a major scuba-diving destination. The capital, Nouméa, is home to French-influenced restaurants and luxury boutiques selling Parisian fashions.