Bora Bora is the jewel in the crown of French Polynesia, a blissful paradise of white sands, turquoise waters, and lush, jungle-clad peaks. It's no surprise that honeymooners retreat here – the romance is palpable. Spend your time snorkeling through kaleidoscopic coral gardens in crystalline lagoons, stand-up paddleboarding amid the island's iconic overwater bungalows, exploring the rugged foothills of majestic Mount Otemanu, and soaking up the sun on secluded motus (islets).

It's all about the welcome in the beautiful port of Pago Pago (pronounced Pango Pango), on the shores of a deep natural harbor in the shadow of jungle-cloaked Mount Pioa – more lyrically known as Rainmaker Mountain. This is a place that has long-established, valued customs and traditions, passed down the generations over many centuries, where the offer of a drink made from the kava root has been turned into a ritual, Sunday is still a day of rest, and myths, legends and a turbulent history are shared through storytelling, dance, crafts and, of course, tattoos. But the capital of American Samoa is also a modern urban center with shops and sights including the Jean P. Haydon Museum, with its displays of war canoes, jewelry made from coconut shells and seeds, and a curious exhibition about the island chain's role in the U.S. Apollo Space Missions

Cradled along the northern shore of Upolu, picturesque Apia's thatched-roof fales blend into the emerald-hued countryside. Jagged mountains rise above deserted beaches where trade winds sigh on coconut palms. Western Samoa's friendly, carefree islanders will welcome you to their bountiful homeland and proudly show you the former home of their adopted son, Robert Louis Stevenson.

With over 300 islands in the archipelago, you might think you would be spoilt for choice when it comes to paradisical places in Fiji. But it is Savusavu, one of the country's smaller islands in the north that offers perhaps one of the best – aka most authentic – experiences there is. The island is the archetype of paradise: turquoise seas and palm-fringed white beaches as far as the eye can see. Unsurprisingly many of the activities involve water: whether snorkeling and diving or exploring the inside of the island by kayak on the mangroved waterways of Sekawa River. As one of the lesser visited islands in Fiji, life and culture has remained very much as it always was in Savusavu; tourism is not rife and the island is buried deep in traditional ways. Expect warm communities eager to share their folklore and everyday lives, from local villages and birdwatching hikes to visits to black pearl farms and chocolate factories.

Lautoka, known as the `Sugar City,` is a bustling port town located on the beautiful island of Viti Levu in Fiji. As you step foot in Lautoka, you are greeted by warm tropical breezes and a vibrant atmosphere. Explore the bustling markets, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and fragrances of fresh fruits, vegetables, and handicrafts. Indulge in the rich flavors of Fijian cuisine, savoring local delicacies such as kokoda (marinated fish) and lovo (traditional underground oven-cooked feast). Discover the pristine white sandy beaches nearby, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and simply basking in the sun. Lautoka invites you to embrace the beauty of Fiji and experience the warm hospitality of its people.

The vibrant capital of New Caledonia, where French elegance meets South Pacific charm in a stunning blend of soft sand beaches, diverse marine life, and a rich fusion of cultures. Having served as the South Pacific headquarters for the U.S. military during World War II, the main island of New Caledonia, called Grande Terre, has played a prominent role on the world stage. These days, the island's sunny weather and natural beauty have taken the spotlight. Noumea has a distinctly French flair with fine restaurants and designer boutiques. Off shore are the vast barrier reefs and the largest lagoon complex in the world.

Located at the point where two UNESCO World Heritage sites – the Wet Tropics of Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef – gently curve to the shoreline, Cairns is graced with inspiring natural attractions in all directions. Active discovery is enjoyed with kite surfing, swimming, snorkeling and Zodiac excursions; beyond the coast are mountains, rainforests, eucalyptus, waterfalls, lakes, rugged ravines and farmlands fed by freshwater streams.