Carnival Cruise Line informed passengers via letter before docking that Lifou Island, a French overseas territory in the Pacific Ocean, is a destination where local customs require modest attire. This notification, issued for an early june trip on the Carnival Splendor, specified a ban on bikinis and other revealing swimwear.

Lifou is the largest and most populous island of the Loyalty Islands, known for its tribal communities. The island is home to a devout indigenous Kanak community with an ancient culture rooted in respect. Here, local women commonly wear skirts extending below the knee and cover their shoulders, reflecting the island's traditional values.

A beach on Lifou Island. *Adobe*

The cruise line conveyed that "communities in these locations require visitors to wear one-piece or traditional full-body swimwear and prohibit bikinis or monokinis on the beach". The notice also explicitly forbids nude sunbathing.

The dress code extends beyond beaches to public areas such as markets, churches, and community spaces. Carnival Cruise Line emphasized its "great appreciation for customers" while requesting visitors to respect local culture and rules, particularly concerning attire, at all destinations. Non-compliance could impact passengers' ability to visit such destinations in the future.

The cruise line notes that Lifou is a destination where local traditions favor modest attire. *Adobe*

Lifou Island, spanning over 1,200 km2 and located approximately 1,200 km from Australia, offers several attractions. Tripadvisor suggests snorkeling among the pristine coral reefs of Jinek Bay Marine Reserve, exploring the majestic Jokin cliffs, and sunbathing on Luecila beach. Visitors can also tour a vanilla plantation to experience the island's rich agricultural heritage.

The island is accessible via cruise ships from New Zealand or domestic flights from Tontouta airport to Noumea, both cities located within New Caledonia.

By Anh Minh (According to Fox News, New Caledonia)