Ah ok. Vanuatu is a sovereign country since its independence in 1980. This year we're celebrating the Jubilee anniversary. Before independance it was a condominium, the only territory that was French AND English at the same time. Apparently both countries claimed the archipelago would be theirs and finally agreed to share it. I was born after independance, but I hear from the older generations that it was pretty cool having the French and English always try to outdo the other in schools and infrastructures like hospitals and police departments, etc, etc. New Caledonia has chosen not to be independant just yet. And i think it is really smart. France pays most of their expenses and they know it. So yep, they're totally different countries today. Before the New Hebrides independance (Vanuatu today) they could travel from one territory to the other with no problems. |
{Lightbulb}
Now I see! new Caledonia is the Puerto Rico of France!
Thanks for the explanation as well. That was very informative. I guess I could google it, but I like the first person reports better!
Ok, so how goes the French Passport battle? Keep us up to date. And best of luck! New caledonia looks big (area wise) in relation to Vanuatu.
When I retire, can I take your place there? 