A Journey to Signal Island

As the sun rose over the horizon, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange, I found myself at Port Brunelet, ready to embark on a journey to Signal Island. The anticipation of exploring the Southern lagoon of New Caledonia was palpable. The water taxi, a covered boat, awaited us, promising a swift 30-minute ride to the island. As we set off, the gentle rocking of the boat reminded me of the rhythmic sway of a train, a sensation I have always cherished.

The journey was a delightful prelude to the adventure that lay ahead. The sea breeze caressed my face, and the sound of the waves was a soothing melody. It was a moment of reflection, a reminder of the many train journeys I have taken across Europe, where the journey itself is as enchanting as the destination. As we approached Signal Island, the sight of the white sand beaches and the lush greenery was a sight to behold, reminiscent of the picturesque landscapes I have often admired from a train window.

Embracing the Island’s Beauty

Upon arrival, the island welcomed us with its pristine beauty. The white sand beach stretched out like a canvas, inviting us to leave our footprints. The water was a clear, inviting blue, and the promise of snorkeling with turtles was irresistible. Equipped with a mask and snorkel, I ventured into the water, eager to explore the underwater world.

The experience was nothing short of magical. As I floated above the coral reefs, I was greeted by a vibrant array of tropical fish, their colors dancing in the sunlight. And then, there they were – the turtles. Graceful and serene, they glided through the water, seemingly unbothered by our presence. It was a moment of pure connection with nature, a reminder of the simple joys that travel can bring.

After snorkeling, I took a leisurely stroll around the island. The historical trail offered glimpses into the island’s past, and the shade of the trees provided a perfect spot to relax and reflect. It was a day of simple pleasures, much like the slow journeys I adore, where every moment is savored and every sight is cherished.

A Day of Leisure and Reflection

As the day unfolded, I found myself drawn to the tranquility of the island. There were tables and dry toilets, making it easy to spend the day there. I had packed a simple picnic, and as I sat under the shade of the trees, I was reminded of the many train journeys where a packed lunch and a scenic view were all I needed for a perfect day.

The island offered a sense of peace and solitude, a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It was a day spent in harmony with nature, a day that reminded me of the beauty of slow travel. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the island, I felt a sense of contentment, much like the feeling of arriving at a long-awaited destination after a leisurely train journey.

As we made our way back to Nouméa, I reflected on the day’s experiences. Signal Island had offered a glimpse into a world of natural beauty and tranquility, a world that I was grateful to have explored. It was a journey that resonated with my love for slow, meaningful travel, a journey that I will cherish for years to come.