The Amalfi Coast, also known as “la divina costiera” (“the divine coast”), is one of the most gorgeously scenic regions in the world: a mountainous coastline just south of Naples, revered for its picturesque villages built into steep hillsides that plunge into the beautiful Mediterranean. Named for a mythological nymph beloved by Hercules, Amalfi is the main town on the Amalfi Coast, warren of alleyways and town squares giving way to sweeping views.

Birthplace of Western civilization and modern capital of Greece, Athens immediately brings to mind the spectacular Acropolis, where the ruins of the magnificent Parthenon still stand. But Athens has many other places of interest, too, among its popular city squares, which include the famous historic district, the Plaka, and Syntagma Square, heart of the modern city and location of the Parliament and other government buildings. You might also take in the fabulous views from Lycabettus Hill. 

The capital of Catalonia, one of Spain’s 17 Autonomous Communities, lively Barcelona is the second-largest city in Spain, after Madrid. Today one of the world’s major cities and an important center for commerce, entertainment, education, science, and the arts, the city can trace its history back to the second century BC, when it was settled by the Romans. In the old city, the works of legendary architect Antonin Gaudí have earned designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Most famous among his masterpieces is the magnificent but still unfinished La Sagrada Família cathedral, under construction since 1882. While in Barcelona, also enjoy the city’s multicultural ambiance and Mediterranean climate and lifestyle.

Bora Bora lies 150 miles northwest of Tahiti in the Society Islands. The main island, home to 4,225 inhabitants, is in the center of a multicolored lagoon, surrounded by offshore "motu"

Located on the African continent and surrounded by Morocco, Ceuta is actually a Spanish enclave—an enchanting fortified city overlooking the Strait of Gibraltar. Though now a part of Spain, this strategic location has been coveted over the centuries by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, Arabs, and Portuguese. Today, Ceuta features a small beach, a well as museums, shops, and monuments.

The legendary city of Troy is located in the province of Çanakkale, whose fascinating history also encompasses the Persian, Greek, Roman and Ottoman empires. Straddling the Dardanelles—the narrow strait that links the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara—the city of Çanakkale, like Istanbul, lies on two continents: Europe and Asia. History buffs will remember Çanakkale as the site of the World War I Battle of Çanakkale between the U.K., France, and the Ottoman Empire. You may delve further into the region’s history at the Çanakkale Museum, the Naval Museum in Çimenlik Fortress, and Korfmann Library here.

Located on the coast of the Coral Sea, Cairns has been described as the “sunny garden city where the Great Barrier Reef meets the Wet Tropics Rainforest” and “the safest tropical city in the world.” The gateway to Far North Queensland, it is best known for the amazing natural wonders that surround it, such as the Great Barrier Reef, the Wet Tropics World Heritage rainforest, the Atherton Tableland, the Outback, and many fabulous beaches. It was an Aboriginal stronghold when Captain James Cook discovered it in 1770, but it wasn’t officially founded until 1876, when gold was discovered in the region. It became a military base for Pacific operations during World War II and has since found its calling as a center for tourism. Enjoy any of a number of activities here, including diving, whitewater rafting, bungee jumping, birdwatching, and hiking, or immerse yourself in Aboriginal culture at Tjapukai Aboriginal Park, Australia’s largest indigenous cultural park. Or simply explore downtown Cairns, which features a popular lagoon pool, many museums, and gourmet dining.

Built between 1881 and 1893, the Corinth Canal cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth, effectively separating the Peloponnesian Peninsula from mainland Greece. Although not completed until the late 19th century, the canal was first attempted as early as the 7th century BC, by the Corinthian tyrant Periander, and the Roman emperors Julius Caesar (44 BC), Caligula (37 BC), and Nero (AD 67) also made the attempt. Less than four miles long and less than 70 feet wide—too narrow for a modern freighter to navigate—it remains a marvel of engineering.  

Officially named Cartagena de Indias by Spanish explorers, who settled the city expecting it to become a port on the spice trade route to India, Cartagena is almost entirely surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. Today, a blend of Spanish colonial influences and a tropical Caribbean lifestyle infuses the vibrant local culture of Colombia’s fifth-largest city—and most popular travel destination. Cartagena is also one of the loveliest cities in South America, with narrow streets, stately mansions, sprawling plazas, grand monasteries, open-air cafés, horse-drawn carriages, and a beautiful seaside setting. Perhaps you’ll visit the Ciudad Amurallada—the city’s historic walled city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Or instead you might head to one of Cartagena’s many beaches. The best-known of these, Playa Blanca, is considered one of the finest beaches in the country.

There is no shortage of things to do and places to explore here in the heart of the ancient Roman empire and capital of modern Italy. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an abundance of monuments, cathedrals, artistic masterpieces, and more reflect the city’s rich ancient, medieval, and Renaissance history. You might also spend time in the independent Vatican City, home of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, which lies within its boundaries.

One of the Cycladic Isles, located in the Aegean Sea, near Mykonos, Delos is a stark, nearly treeless island whose pristine character is painstakingly preserved. It is a treasure trove of history, boasting more than 5,000 years of civilization, and is also considered a sacred island—the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, according to Greek mythology.  

The capital of Australia’s tropical Northern Territory, on the Timor Sea, Darwin was called Palmerston when it was founded in 1869. The city has suffered devastation twice since. As the frontline for Allied action against the Japanese in World War II, it was heavily damaged in World War II—the only Australian city ever bombed. In 1974, Cyclone Tracey caused further damage, leaving only 400 of the city’s 11,200 houses standing in its wake. Both times, this resilient metropolis has rebuilt from the ashes, so that today it is an attractive city of contrasts: lively yet laidback, urban yet remote, and a multicultural mix of 56 nationalities, including Aborigine. You might want to spend time in the revitalized waterfront area, featuring shops, restaurants, lagoons, parks, and mansions. Visit the Mindil Beach Sunset Market—the best known of Darwin’s many outdoor markets. Or venture farther afield, to Crocosaurus Cove, where you can get close to saltwater crocodiles, or to Parap, a suburb whose galleries are brimming with contemporary and Aboriginal art.

“The Pearl of the Tuscan Archipelago” is a beautiful island in the Tyrrhenian Sea that once was connected by a land bridge to Corsica but is better known today as the site of Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile after his abdication in 1814. The chief city on the island, Portoferraio, dates to the Etruscan civilization and offers many historic landmarks, as well as beautiful beaches.

Fakarava is an atoll in the west of the Tuamotu group in French Polynesia. It is the second largest of the Tuamotu atolls. Fakarava's main village is called Rotoava.The first recorded European to arrive to Fakarava Atoll was Russian oceanic explorer Fabian Gottlieb von Bellingshausen in 1820 on the ships Vostok and Mirni. He originally named this atoll "Wittgenstein."

Less developed than many of the better-known Greek islands, Kefalonia offers many pockets of authentic local culture for the visitor. The largest of the seven Ionian islands, it is home to 365 villages—one for each day of the year. Fiskardo, located at the northern tip of the island, is famous as one of the few villages that was not destroyed in the earthquake that struck Kefalonia in 1953. In Fiscardo’s picture-postcard harbor, you’ll find traditional fishing boats moored alongside luxury yachts, and pebbled beaches surround sheltered coves that are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving. You’ll experience Fiscardo at the best time of day—the evening, when the lights of its preserved historic buildings and charming cafés and restaurants bathe the village in a magical glow.

Located on the northeast coast of Sardinia, overlooking the Gulf of Olbia, Golfo di Aranci was once dominated by the Aragons but was established as a fishing port in the mid-18th century. By the turn of the 20th century, it had grown into an important trading center. Today, people come here for its many beaches and for the natural beauty of its rocky headlands and white-sand beaches, where crystal-clear waters invite diving. Climb up to the church of Nostra Signora del Monte, built from local granite, for magnificent views, or shop for local crafts on Via Libertà. Or, if you’re interested in history, might want to visit the Nuralgic Sacred Well of Milis and the old lime factory.

One of the most picturesque and geographically diverse islands in the Society Group, enclosed in a single lagoon, it covers 75 square miles. Huahine is located 109 miles northwest of Papeete. The highest point on the island, Mt. Turi, reaches 2,200 feet and is located on Huahine Nui. Mt. Tavaiura in the Fitii Peninsula looks like a women's face, leading to her chest and her round belly, hence one of the interpretation for Huahine's original name (pregnant woman).

Hiva Oa is one of the islands discovered and named by Mendaña in 1595. The main town is Atuona on the southern shore within Traitors Bay. Above the steady rumble of the Pacific surge, the sharply sculpted mountains of Hiva Oa hide their summits in the mists of rain-filled clouds. The largest and most fertile island in the southern group of the Marquesas, Hiva Oa has deep valleys, lush plateaus and thickly wooded forests. Atuona is a favorite port of call for yachts.

The “queen” of Croatia’s spectacular Dalmatian islands, Hvar is revered for its scenic beauty, rich history, and mild climate. Once called the “Austrian Madeira,” the island of Hvar was prized for its strategic location in ancient times. More recently, it has been acclaimed as one of the world’s ten most beautiful islands by Condé Nast Traveler and the U.K.’s Traveller magazine. The city of Hvar features one of the largest and most beautiful town squares in Croatia, and scenic strolling abounds.

Expect to see donkeys on this small, picturesque island of red-tiled homes and narrow stone-paved alleyways, where motorized traffic is banned. One of the Saronic islands, near Athens, Hydra today is home to a thriving artists’ colony.

From Drake Bay, venture farther afield, to the uninhabited Caño Island (Isla del Caño) and the Caño Island Biological Reserve (Reserva Biológica Isla del Caño) for excellent snorkeling and to view stone spheres left by an ancient civilization dating to the pre-Columbian era.

Though not the capital of modern Turkey (that title belongs to Anakara), Istanbul was the heart of first the Byzantine and then the Ottoman empire (when it was known as Constantinople), and it remains not only the most populous city in the country, but also one of the greatest cities in the world. Built on seven hills to match the seven hills of Rome, it straddles the Bosporus—the narrow strait that connects the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara—and is the only major city in the world to be located on two continents: Europe and Asia. A multicultural melting pot and one of 2010’s three European Capitals of Culture, it offers many fascinating attractions. Among these is the Blue Mosque, constructed by many of the same architects who helped build India’s Taj Mahal and whose interior is covered by 20,000 blue ceramic tiles. Just across the street is Aya Sofia, a magnificent early Christian church later converted to a mosque and today a museum. Explore the Harem, Treasury, and splendid courtyards of Topkapi Palace, a museum complex that was home to the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years and remains the world’s oldest and largest surviving palace. And browse the impressive Grand Bazaar (known locally as the Covered Bazaar), the largest covered bazaar in the world—a bustling warren of 4,000 shops, as well as mosques, courtyards, and cafés.

A lot of history is packed into this small Greek island in the Ionian Sea. The legendary home of Odysseus, Ithaca was the capital of Cephalonia at the time of the Trojan war (around 1500 BC) and later was conquered by the Romans, the Byzantines, the Turks, the Venetians, the French, and the British. The capital city, Vathay, features the world’s largest natural harbor, where you can enjoy excellent snorkeling, and hiking also lets you take in the beautiful natural surroundings.

This stunningly beautiful island in the southern Aegean Sea was created by a volcanic explosion in 1600 BC. Today, it is renowned for its whitewashed villages and black-sand beaches. Perhaps you’ll venture to the rim of the now-dormant volcano, which is accessible by funicular or donkey. And the spectacular sunsets here are not to be missed.

Home of the Komodo dragon—the world’s largest lizard, which exists nowhere else on Earth—Komodo is located in the center of the 17,508 islands that make up the Indonesian archipelago. Although settled since at least the Neolithic era, the island today is inhabited mostly by the descendants of convicts who were exiled here. It is better known, however, as one of three islands that comprise Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Man and Biosphere Reserve. While here, enjoy the tropical climate and hilly terrain rimmed with white-sand beaches and one of only seven pink-sand beaches in the world. Perhaps you’ll visit the park, take a walk along the walking trails (because of the dragons, it is required that you be accompanied by a guide), or take a cruise in a glass-bottom boat to admire the abundant marine life.

Situated on the only natural fjord of its kind in the world—one of the most beautiful bays in the world—spectacular Kotor captures the spirit of Montenegro with its blend of exuberant youth and ancient traditions. Explore the Old Town, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its amazingly well-preserved medieval architecture. 

The province of Andalucia in southern Spain is known for its unspoiled natural beauty and whitewashed villages and has even been used as a location for numerous films—including American Westerns. The Andalucian village of Almeria, from the Arabic for “mirror of the sea,” is set in the foothills of a mountain range dominated by a Moorish fortress and overlooking a beautiful bay. Spend time here browsing the many museums that line its winding streets, or get closer to nature by taking advantage of its excellent SCUBA diving and hiking trails.

One of the oldest cities in the world, Lisbon is the capital of Portugal and its largest city. It is also the westernmost capital in Europe—and one of the most beautiful capitals on the continent. According to legend, the city was founded by Ulysses, and its name—derived from ancient Phoenician for “enchanting port”—attests to both its long history and its stunning beauty. Lisbon was also the departure point for Portuguese explorers during the 15th century’s “Age of Discovery,” and monuments to this golden era may be seen in the city’s historic center, which was built on seven hills and can be reached only by funicular or elevator. These include the Tower of Belém and Jeronimos Monastery, which together are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another highlight of the city is Monsanto Park, one of the largest urban parks in the world.  

In Fiji, virtually everyone you’ll meet will be smiling—and when you view the high mountains, lush vegetation, shimmering waters, and pristine white-sand beaches of this island nation, you’ll understand why. A British colony for nearly a century before gaining its independence in 1970, Fiji remains English speaking and today boasts a multinational population, among whom the majority are of Melanesian descent. As you mingle with the locals, you’ll see why Melanesians are reputed to be among the friendliest people in the world.

Located on the northwest coast of Viti Levu, the largest and most populous of the Fijian islands, Lautoka is Fiji’s second-largest city. Virtually synonymous with the country’s main export, Lautoka is known as “Sugar City” for the green-gold sugarcane that surrounds it on three sides, with the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean forming its western border. Enjoy window-shopping along its stately, royal palm-lined main thoroughfare. Visit its beautiful botanical garden. Or venture to Koroyanitu National Heritage Park (also known as Abaca National Heritage Park), where you’ll experience beautiful native forests and traditional villages.

Here is your opportunity for an authentic experience of the Polynesia of old! Located just 25 miles from Bora Bora, Maupiti is considered an unspoiled paradise and one of the most beautiful islands in the South Seas. It is of the oldest settlements in the Society Islands, offering many ancient artifacts, including maraes (temples) and graves, where excavations have yielded stone axes, whale teeth, and fishhooks dating to AD 850. Maupiti was discovered by Dutch explorer Jakob Roggeveen in 1722 but remained otherwise largely untouched by Europeans before uniting with Bora Bora in the early 19th century. The island is dominated by the 1,250-foot Mt. Teurafaatui, which is often circled by sea birds such as frigate birds and reed harriers that make their home in the caves near the village of Vaiea. Perhaps you’ll hike up Mt. Teuraffatui for sweeping panoramic views. You might simply bask in the tranquil atmosphere of Tereia Beach, a beautiful, uncrowded, pink-and-white-sand beach also known as Lovers’ Beach. Or enjoy wonderful snorkeling in a lagoon populated by leopard and manta rays, colorful tropical fish, and spectacular coral gardens.

In Fiji, virtually everyone you’ll meet will be smiling—and when you view the high mountains, lush vegetation, shimmering waters, and pristine white-sand beaches of this island nation, you’ll understand why. A British colony for nearly a century before gaining its independence in 1970, Fiji remains English speaking and today boasts a multinational population, among whom the majority are of Melanesian descent. As you mingle with the locals, you’ll see why Melanesians are reputed to be among the friendliest people in the world.

You’ll feel right at home on Malolo Island, part of the Mamanuca island group—a volcanic archipelago. Seven of the chain’s islands are so low, they’re covered by the Pacific Ocean at high tide. Rising just a few feet above sea level, Malolo is a remote and rustic getaway owned by a Fijian family. Take advantage of the opportunity to truly get away from it all as you admire the golden-sand beaches, swaying palms, and azure skies … marvel at the phenomenal snorkeling, with an abundance of tropical fish inhabiting local reefs … take in sweeping sea views from the comfort of a double hammock … and enjoy true Fijian hospitality, offered by villagers whose ancestry here dates back thousands of years.

A pretty seaside resort in the Andalucian province of Granada, on the Costa Tropical, Motril features a historic quarter known as a fine example of Arab-Spanish urban development, as well as excellent shopping and dining. The city’s Museum of Sugar celebrates what was the city’s main industry for centuries. And enjoy diving in the warm waters off its many beaches, which include three nude beaches.  

The “Queen of the Côte d’Azur” and the second-largest city in France, Nice offers beautiful views of hilltop villages, Art Deco façades, and a beautiful coastline along the blue-green Mediterranean Sea. Inhabited for 400,000 years, Nice has been a travel destination since the Roman empire. The ruins of ancient Roman baths are among the city’s top attractions, as are the Cours Saleya Flower Market, the Matisse Museum, and the Russian Orthodox Cathedral. Or perhaps you’ll simply stroll the lovely Promenade des Anglais, enjoy the world-class dining and shopping, or relax on one of the city’s many beautiful beaches.

Taiohae is a pleasant village bordering the sea. It is the administrative, economic, educational and health center of the Marquesas Islands. Here are the French and Territorial administrators, the government buildings, gendarmerie, post office, general hospital, town hall, Air Tahiti office, banks, schools, well-stocked stores and shops. It lies on the south coast at the head of the Bay of Taiohae whose entrance is guarded by two rocks called "Les Sentinelles."

A major seaport set on terraced hillsides on the Black Sea, Odessa was once the fourth-largest city of 19th-century Imperial Russia and the most important trading port of the Soviet Union. Today, it is the third-largest city of modern Ukraine. Founded by decree in 1794 by Catherine the Great, Odessa has long been a major artistic, intellectual, and cultural center, beloved by the great Russian poet Pushkin, and a freewheeling city with a multicultural ambiance, with influences of Jewish, Greek, Russian, Moldovan, and Ukrainian cultures. The Potemkin Stairs, an inviting walkway leading to the city from the sea, are a symbol of the city. Other “must-see” sites include the Opera and Ballet House, ranked with the Vienna Opera House as one of the finest in the world; Deribasovskaya Street, the city’s pedestrian-only main street; and a dazzling mix of architectural styles, from Italian and French to Art Nouveau and Renaissance. You’ll also find wonderful museums, restaurants, and shops in Odessa.

Come discover why Aruba’s slogan is “Where Happiness Lives”! In its glittering, multicultural capital, Oranjestad, you’ll find an ideal walking city brimming with shops, Dutch Colonial architecture, a waterfront market, and a 17th-century fort. Aruba is also world-renowned for its international cuisine, and restaurants are plentiful. Windsurfing is especially popular here, and shallow coral formations make this a great destination for diving and snorkeling. Or simply relax on a beach of soft, ivory-colored sands.

Originally called Puerto Bello—literally, “Beautiful Port,” the name it was given by Christopher Columbus in 1502—Portobelo today is a quiet fishing village on the northern part of the Isthmus of Panama. But its sleepy nature today belies its storied history. During the Spanish colonial era, it was the greatest port in Central America, when mules carried gold and silver from Peru and goods from Asia overland from Panama City to be traded. These riches also attracted pirates, and Portobelo was often the focus of attacks, including a famous raid by Captain Henry Morgan in 1668. Captured by the British fleet in 1739 and rebuilt in 1751, Portobelo has never been restored to its former glory, and only remnants remain of the 17th- and 18-century fortifications built to protect transatlantic trade. Some were even stripped away to provide materials to build the Panama Canal. Nevertheless, these fortifications have been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site as outstanding examples of Spanish colonial military architecture.

One of the Dodecanese Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, Patmos is important in both mythology and Christianity. It was named a Sacred Island by the Greek government in 1981 and a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999, and has long been a popular pilgrimage site. Boasting an enchantingly beautiful landscape, Patmos was the place of exile for St. John the Divine, one of Jesus’ disciples, who is believed to have written the Book of Revelations here. A monastery dedicated to him is visible almost everywhere throughout the island. 

The islands of Polynesia are a gorgeous collection of volcanic islands and atolls strewn lazily across the grand Pacific Ocean. The island of Tahiti proper is the largest of the 118 islands and atolls that comprise French Polynesia. Papeete, the modern capital of Tahiti and her islands, contains government offices, hospitals, banks and many other services dedicated to serving the islands as well as tourists who come to these islands for a life-enriching experience.

A four-mile-by-two-mile gem of an island off the Amalfi coast, Capri was once the vacation retreat of the Roman emperors Augustus and Tiberius and is listed today among the 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Boasting an idyllic climate, lush gardens, and magnificent views, it features scenic hiking, Roman ruins, a 14th-century Carthusian monastery, and the famed Blue Grotto (Grotta Azzurra), renowned for the intense blue of its waters.

Overlooking the Gulf of Poets in the northwestern Italian province of Liguria, Porto Venere (also spelled Portovenere) was built by the Romans as a trade route between Gaul and Spain. In 1997, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the nearby Cinque Terre villages, for its combination of scenic beauty and a traditional way of life that dates back 1,000 years. Admire the pastel-colored homes that line the picturesque waterfront, and narrow stairways and cobbled lanes lined with shops that radiate out from the waterfront. Visit the 12th-century Chiesa di San Lorenzo church and the 16th-century Castello Dorio, a fortified Genoese castle with manicured gardens and stunning views. Venture to Byron’s Grotto, where Lord Byron swam across the gulf to Lerici to visit his friend and fellow poet, Percy Bysshe Shelley, in 1822. Or follow one of several hiking trails that lead out from the town.

The capital and largest city of the Republic of Panama, Panama City is a glamorous city of skyscrapers surrounded by dense tropical rainforests, located at the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. Founded on August 15, 1519, by Spanish conquistador Pedro Arias Dávila, it became an important stop on the trade route that brought Peruvian gold and silver to Portobelo. The site of the original city, however, was destroyed in 1671 by the pirate Captain Henry Morgan and was never rebuilt. Today, Panama Viejo is a popular attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city’s historic district, Casco Viejo, was built in 1671 and surrounded by fortifications to protect against future pirate attacks. Today, it offers an interesting mix of architectural styles and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The site of the modern city was settled in 1673 on a peninsula five miles from Panama Viejo. Central America’s capital of international finance, it is somewhat jokingly referred to as the “Dubai of the Americas” by the locals. During your time here, perhaps you’ll view the Canal from the Miraflores Visitors Center and browse the museum … venture out to the scenic Amador Causeway, where Frank Gehry’s Biomuseo (Biodiversity Museum) is expected to open in 2013 … or shop for handicrafts from one of Panama’s seven living Indian tribes. 

Papua New Guinea is the eastern half of the island of New Guinea, the second-largest island in the world (after Greenland). Divided between Germany and the U.K. in 1885, it was transferred to Australia in 1902 and gained independence in 1975. Some 80% of the population lives in rural areas without modern amenities, and with more than 700 native languages, it is the world’s most linguistically diverse nation.

Rabaul was the headquarters of German New Guinea until World War I, when it became a provincial capital under the British Empire. During World War II, this port city became an important military base for Japanese forces. It remained a provincial capital until 1994, when it was buried in ash from volcanic eruptions from Mt. Tavurvur and Mt. Vulcan. Today, it presents a surreal, almost deserted landscape, with Mt. Tavurvur looming in the background, still spewing plumes of smoke into the sky. You’ll have a full day to marvel at this fantastical setting and enjoy SCUBA diving and snorkeling in the beautiful harbor.

Rangiroa is the largest atoll of the Tuamotu Archipelago, which comprises 78 coral atolls scattered over several hundred miles of the eastern Pacific Ocean. Life on these remote atolls is simple, quiet, and peaceful. In the small villages, the visitor can discover the true flavor of the Tuamotu, often participating in the daily activities of the Paumotu people. The interior lagoons are a haven for black pearl farms, fish breeding farms, snorkeling and SCUBA diving.

Set on a peninsula and protected by ancient fortified walls, this romantic Istrian town is a modern seaside resort with a host of attractions and activities. Admire its pastel-colored houses as you stroll narrow winding streets that lead to a Venetian bell tower.

Rarotonga, the capital of the scattered nation of the Cook Islands, is a relaxing place of beauty and style. Its small population lives on the coast of the circular island, while the interior is lush, rugged, and jungle-clad, offering the opportunity for challenging walks and sensational views. A former New Zealand colony, it has the distinct feel of a New Zealand Polynesian outpost, including New Zealand newspapers and television -- as well as the distinctive accent.

In the South Pacific, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Australia, lies the island nation of Vanuatu. Consisting of 82 volcanic islands, Vanuatu was originally inhabited by the Melanesian people but saw an influx of immigrants from Polynesia and Europe over the centuries—including the French and British, who jointly ruled the land (then called New Hebrides, a name coined by Captain James Cook) around the turn of the 20th century.

Spanish for “the holy spirit,” Espiritu Santo is the largest island in the Vanuatu archipelago and boasts miraculous scenery, from its palm-lined, white-sand beaches and spring-fed swimming holes to lush rainforests and lofty mountains, including Vanuatu’s four highest peaks. Its first European settlement was established in 1606 by the Portuguese explorer Pedro Fernandes de Queirós, who was working for Spain and thought he had discovered the fabled land of Australia.

Once populated by a scattering of villages with little or no outside contact, the Vanuatu island of Espiritu Santo was dramatically changed forever during World War II, when it became an Allied military supply and support base. A lieutenant commander for the U.S. Navy named James A. Michener wrote Tales of the South Pacific based on his experiences while stationed here. The Pulitzer Prize-winning book was later turned into the musical South Pacific by Rodgers & Hammerstein. While here, perhaps you’ll venture to the two protected areas that have been established to preserve local biodiversity, which includes the Santo Mountain Starling, a bird that is exclusive to the island. Coral reefs and shipwrecks—including the SS President Coolidge, renowned as one of the most accessible shipwrecks in the world—make it a popular destination for divers. You can also enjoy exceptional swimming and snorkeling. Or simply relax on the beach.

The seven Canary Islands are a paradise off the northwest coast of Africa. One of Spain’s 17 Autonomous Communities, the islands boast a unique culture that blends Spanish, African, Latin American, and European influences. Santa Cruz de Tenerife is located on Tenerife, the largest and most populous of the Canaries, and served as the islands’ sole capital until 1927, an honor it now shares with Las Palmas. A beautiful port city with golden beaches, wide avenues, and lush parks, Santa Cruz is home to San Cristóbal de La Laguna, the first non-fortified Spanish colonial town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other city highlights to explore include the Plaza de España in the oldest district of the city and the largest square in the Canary Islands; the Our Lady of Africa city market; Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción, the city’s oldest church; the avant-garde Tenerife Auditorium; the Museum of Fine Arts; the Parque García Sanabria, an urban oasis renowned for its flower clock; and Playa de las Teresitas, a golden beach with stunning mountain views.

According to legend, Sinop was founded by Amazons and named for their Queen, Sinova. Certainly, it is one of the oldest cities in Anatolia, dating to the Early Bronze Age, and its strategic location on the Black Sea coast of northern Turkey has made it the target of numerous civilizations, including the Hittites, Phrygia, the Persians, Alexander the Great, the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and the Ottoman Empire. It is also the birthplace of the philosopher Diogenes. See artifacts from this storied past at the Sinop Museum, one of the oldest active museums in Turkey, or in the Alaaddin Mosque and Alaiye  Madrasah. Or perhaps you’ll view the ruins of its ancient castle, and visit the Sinop Fortress Prison, once a state prison located inside the fortress.

The seven Canary Islands are a paradise off the northwest coast of Africa. One of Spain’s 17 Autonomous Communities, the islands boast a unique culture that blends Spanish, African, Latin American, and European influences. The northwesternmost of these islands is Isla de la Palma, an unspoiled paradise renowned for its tranquility, excellent walking and hiking, and comfortable year-round climate. Vestiges of the island’s Spanish colonial history may be seen in the cobbled streets and elegant 17th- and 18th-century buildings of its capital city, Santa Cruz de La Palma. Located on the island’s east coast and set against a mountainous backdrop, the city is centered on a traffic-free main street lined with shops and cafés. At the north end of the promenade, visit a local market, a fortress, and a replica of Columbus’ famous ship, the Santa Maria. Or mingle with the hospitable people of the Canaries and enjoy such local delicacies as sancocho (a fish stew), papas arrugadas (literally, “wrinkled potatoes”), and cheese—perhaps accompanied by a quality, handmade cigar produced from locally grown tobacco.

Papua New Guinea is the eastern half of the island of New Guinea, the second-largest island in the world (after Greenland). Divided between Germany and the U.K. in 1885, it was transferred to Australia in 1902 and gained independence in 1975. Some 80% of the population lives in rural areas without modern amenities, and with more than 700 native languages, it is the world’s most linguistically diverse nation.

Just 54 acres in size, Samarai Island was once an important trading center, due to its location on the southeast coast of Papua New Guinea, on the China Strait between Australia and East Asia. It was discovered in 1873 by British navigator Captain John Moresby, who initially called it Dinner Island. Five years later, the establishment of a mission station here led to its development as a bustling port town and headquarters of an administrative district of British New Guinea.

In 1942, it was evacuated and its buildings were destroyed to prevent the island from falling into Japanese control during World War II. Rebuilt since—though not to the same scale as its glory days—the island was declared a National Historical Heritage Island by the government of Papua New Guinea in 2006. Take a stroll along the pleasant pathway that encircles its pretty town, view spectacular marine life on a SCUBA diving expedition, or simply relax on the beach.

Inhabited since the ninth century, Semarang offers a multi-faceted history. It became an Islamic center at the end of the 15th century and was officially founded as a city in 1547. At the turn of the 18th century, its strategic location made it an important Dutch colonial trading center, and during the 1920s, it earned the nickname “Red City” as the site of the founding of the Communist Party of Indonesia. With its location on the north coast of the island of Java, Semarang remains a major port city today and also serves as the capital of the Indonesian province of Eastern Java. Predominantly Javanese in culture, though also with a significant Chinese population, it is a center for the production of herbal medicines used widely throughout the country. Perhaps you’ll visit the city’s many religious attractions, which include Sam Poo Kong, the oldest Chinese temple in the city; Blenduk Church, a Protestant church dating to the Dutch colonial era and the oldest church in Central Java; the Great Mosque of Central Java; and Semarang Cathedral. Visit Simpang Lima, a vast city square or Taman Budaya Raden Saleh, a beautiful public garden. Or enjoy a relaxing ride in a becak (trishaw), or browse Jalan Pemuda, the city’s main shopping district.

In Fiji, virtually everyone you’ll meet will be smiling—and when you view the high mountains, lush vegetation, shimmering waters, and pristine white-sand beaches of this island nation, you’ll understand why. A British colony for nearly a century before gaining its independence in 1970, Fiji remains English speaking and today boasts a multinational population, among whom the majority are of Melanesian descent. As you mingle with the locals, you’ll see why Melanesians are reputed to be among the friendliest people in the world.

The island of Vanua Levu in northern Fiji remains largely undeveloped, making it a charming, unspoiled haven. It is the second-largest of Fiji’s 300 islands, and, because of its remoteness, it is reminiscent of the South Seas before its discovery by Europeans. Nestled among lush green hills and surrounded by coral reefs, Savusavu was once a bustling trading port for center for sandalwood, beche-de-mer (sea cucumber), and copra (coconut oil). Today, its major industry is sugar cultivation.

Largely unchanged over the past 30 years, the village is sometimes called the “Hidden Paradise of Fiji,” with its single, half-mile-long main street facing a fantastically beautiful bay. The 19th-century Copra Shed Marina, the centerpiece of the town, now houses the Savusavu Yacht Club, as well as handicrafts and more. Hot springs bubble up throughout the town; in the afternoon, you can see pots on top of steaming fissures as women prepare the evening meal. Explore at your leisure, or join one of many available shore excursions, such as a visit to a black-pearl farm, a Fijian village, or a plantation.

In Fiji, virtually everyone you’ll meet will be smiling—and when you view the high mountains, lush vegetation, shimmering waters, and pristine white-sand beaches of this island nation, you’ll understand why. A British colony for nearly a century before gaining its independence in 1970, Fiji remains English speaking and today boasts a multinational population, among whom the majority are of Melanesian descent. As you mingle with the locals, you’ll see why Melanesians are reputed to be among the friendliest people in the world.

The island of Vanua Levu in northern Fiji remains largely undeveloped, making it a charming, unspoiled haven. It is the second-largest of Fiji’s 300 islands, and, because of its remoteness, it is reminiscent of the South Seas before its discovery by Europeans. Nestled among lush green hills and surrounded by coral reefs, Savusavu was once a bustling trading port for center for sandalwood, beche-de-mer (sea cucumber), and copra (coconut oil). Today, its major industry is sugar cultivation.

Largely unchanged over the past 30 years, the village is sometimes called the “Hidden Paradise of Fiji,” with its single, half-mile-long main street facing a fantastically beautiful bay. The 19th-century Copra Shed Marina, the centerpiece of the town, now houses the Savusavu Yacht Club, as well as handicrafts and more. Hot springs bubble up throughout the town; in the afternoon, you can see pots on top of steaming fissures as women prepare the evening meal. Explore at your leisure, or join one of many available shore excursions, such as a visit to a black-pearl farm, a Fijian village, or a plantation.

Enclosed in a common lagoon with Raiatea and accessible only by boat, Taha'a produces about 80% of all vanilla in French Polynesia. Taha'a is the only island in the Society Islands that can be completely circled by ship inside the protected lagoon. With its many deep bays and deserted motu, Taha'a is an ideal island to escape. With only a handful of guest houses and small hotels, Taha'a is slowly awakening to tourism and yet maintains an authentic flavor of Polynesia.

Enjoy a beachside barbeque on our own private island of Motu Mahana - which means it's your private island for the day. The motu is uninhabited except for fellow guests, and those wonderful Gauguines who will welcome you in song.

The smallest of the Marquesas archipelago, at only 19 square miles, Tahuata is a leaf-shaped volcanic island with sheer cliffs, white-sand beaches, lush vegetation, and twin bays (Iva Iva Nui and Iva Iva Iti). Literally “sunrise” in Marquesan, it is accessible only from Hiva Oa, from which it is separated by a mile-wide channel. The island was discovered in 1595 by the Spanish explorer Alvaro de Mendaña de Neira, and in 1842 it became the first French settlement in the Marquesas, after centuries of tumultuous encounters with European explorers. The m/s Paul Gauguin will call on Hapatoni, a charming, seafront village with an ancient paved royal walkway shaded by tamanu trees and whose air is redolent of tiare and frangipani. Visit the huge Catholic church, built by the Vatican and decorated with stunning stained-glass windows and beautiful local carvings. Admire traditional carvings at the crafts center. And enjoy fine swimming and snorkeling in the only Marquesas island edged by coral reef.

The largest and by far the most populous of the British Virgin Islands, Tortola attracts visitors for its white-sand beaches framed by lush mountains and an azure sea. One of these mountains, Mount Sage, boasts the highest elevation in the British Virgin Islands, rising 1,716 feet from the sea. Settled by Dutch buccaneers in during the mid-1600s, Tortola (literally, “turtle dove”)  was a center for cotton and sugar plantations before becoming a pirate’s nest during the 18th century. The ruins of an ancient fort and a restored sugar plantation are among the island’s main attractions. Or simply enjoy the laidback ambiance of the capital city, Road Town, and take advantage the excellent diving and snorkeling here.

A small resort town located on an island off the Croatian mainland, Trogir has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its 2,300 years of urban continuity. The town’s history dates to 2000 BC, when the Greeks founded a colony here, and its urban design has built on those Hellenistic origins. Today, you’ll find an amazing architectural mix that blends the Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods, as well as stunning natural beauty of capes, bays, and coves.

On Ua Huka, hundreds of stallions and wild goats run free through the island's uneven terrain. Known for its fine wood carvings, it's also home to the oldest ruins in the Marquesas, dating to 300 A.D. The island also features French Polynesia's only arboretum, filled with unique indigenous flora and fauna.

The origins of civilization on this tiny island—at just three square miles, the smallest of the British Virgin Islands—remain shrouded in mystery. But history is not what attracts visitors here. Sometimes called the “Barefoot Island,” Jost Van Dyke offers picture-postcard scenery and a relaxing, casual ambiance. The beach is its main street, and its beaches are considered among the loveliest in the Caribbean. Ships wrecked on the coral reefs in days of old provide fascinating diving and snorkeling today. Or simply sit on the coral sands and admire a spectacular sunset.

A mix of African, Indian, and Spanish cultures distinguishes Virgin Gorda. At just eight and a half miles long, it is the third-largest of the British Virgin Islands, whose jagged landscape rises sharply from a turquoise sea. Among the nature trails and nature reserves that showcase the island’s spectacular beauty are the ruins of an abandoned 19th-century copper mine on Handsome Bay, now a national park. Or visit The Baths, where giant boulders strewn about by nature have created a patchwork of pools, beaches, and trails. 
 

In the South Pacific, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Australia, lies the island nation of Vanuatu. Consisting of 82 volcanic islands, Vanuatu was originally inhabited by the Melanesian people but saw an influx of immigrants from Polynesia and Europe over the centuries—including the French and British, who jointly ruled the land (then called New Hebrides, a name coined by Captain James Cook) around the turn of the 20th century.

Independent since 1980, Vanuatu today is home to roughly 221,000 people—and 113 distinct languages, a vestige of its diverse immigrant history. Tradition and culture remain strong on these islands, where 80% of the population lives in thatched-hut villages surrounded by thick jungle, depending for survival on small gardens. From your port call on the capital city, Port Vila, on the island of Efate, you can discover a rich artistic heritage of storytelling, song, dance, and art, including tattoos, masks, and carvings. Those interested in the natural world can admire large open stretches of water, dense jungle, and a mountainous terrain, as well as a wide variety of sea life.

Independent since the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010, Curaçao is sometimes called “Hollandin the Tropics” and was recently named a “Top Destination” for 2012 by Frommer’s. Much of the island’s acclaim is due to its charming capital city, Willemstad, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its distinctive urban planning dating to 1634 and mix of architectural styles. While here, admire the city’s magnificent setting on a natural harbor and quality shopping in historic buildings. Perhaps you’ll also visit Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, which boasts the longest-standing Jewish congregation in theNew World, dating to 1651. 

A fashionable resort since 1800, renowned for the healing properties of its climate, Yalta was the favored vacation retreat of the Romanov royal family and also the site where Roosevelt, Churchill, and Stalin charted the future of Europe in 1945. Located in Crimea, on the coast of the Black Sea in southern Ukraine, Yalta is home to Gaspra Castle, a Gothic manor that was the meeting-place of Leo Tolstoy, Anton Chekhov, Maxim Gorky, and other literary luminaries in 1901. Perhaps you’ll also visit the Chekhov House-Museum, where the famous playwright wrote his classic play The Cherry Orchard, or stroll the Nab Lenina, a palm-lined, pedestrian-only, seaside promenade.