Now ordering a meal in French was definitely a challenge for our French students today, because who knew there could be so many different prices for a kilo of bananas? In New Caledonia the prices are much more expensive than New Zealand, even for a bar of Cadbury’s chocolate! So the task of the students for the morning at Institue Voltaire, was to investigate the prices of New Caledonian fruits and vegetables at the markets and compare to our prices at home.
Our outcome, for a $2.00 kilo of bananas in New Zealand, it costs $10.80 for a kilo in New Caledonia. We were all very surprised at this result for sure, and made us realise how different our two countries really are. Around 11:45 our lesson finished and we travelled in a coach up through the beautiful forest of Mount Koghi to reach our next destination to bring out everyone’s inner monkey – the Mount Koghi Treetops Adventure.
The view from the peak was extraordinary with a vast forest green and lush, quite similar to our New Zealand backyard. Everyone was very excited about this trip and had waited for it throughout the week. So once buckled up in our harnesses, and having a quick demonstration we were off. Climbing ropes, balancing beams and zip lining through the amazing forest, both Madame Read and Mr Bidwell showed an adventurous spirit while climbing as well.
Completing three challenging levels and drenched in sweat from the heat, everyone was very exhausted from the hard but fun workout, and were relieved to have a wee rest on the bus ride back to the High School Blaise Pascal. However, as the day came to an end the night came alive.
The students all met at La Place De Cocoteir with their correspondents to march through the city in the pre-Bastille Day parade. A wonderful experience it was to be a part of such a significant French celebration. We all joined in the singing through the streets with our lanterns lit, while blue, red and white fireworks exploded in the sky to conclude the exciting night.
Francesca Adams
