Make the most of Sydney: stroll Circular Quay and the waterfront, admire the Opera House, explore the historic Rocks under the Harbour Bridge, head to the Blue Mountains for the world's steepest railway, meet Australian wildlife at Koala Park Sanctuary, and finish with a drink at a traditional Aussie pub.

Hobart is regarded by guests as one of the region's most friendly, exciting and diverse destinations. In the State of Tasmania, Hobart is Australia's second oldest city. It is rich in character and history, nestling next to one of the most beautiful natural harbors in the world and at the base of Mount Wellington, which rises 3,600 feet from the sea. The working harbor is unique with Antarctic supply vessels and fishing boats coming and going throughout the year.

Dunedin is a remarkably preserved Victorian city at the head of a fiord-like inlet, surrounded by lush green hills. Fueled by the 1860s Otago gold rush, it became New Zealand's largest and wealthiest city, and the first with gaslight, water mains, hydro power, and steam trams. Explore the rugged Otago Peninsula for geological wonders, fur seals, and yellow-eyed penguins, visit Larnach Castle, and enjoy Dunedin's Victorian and Edwardian stone buildings, local crafts, and Kiwi cuisine.

Timaru, on the east coast of New Zealand's South Island, is the gateway to the mountains, including Mt Cook. It blends Edwardian heritage with roses, trees, paved public spaces, seating, and views between ocean and alps. Visit the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden and the striking piazza for sweeping views over Caroline Bay, plus nearby café-bars and restaurants.

Experience Christchurch, a city transformed after the 2010-11 earthquakes. Its rebuilt center blends striking modern architecture with some of New Zealand's oldest buildings and vibrant murals. Stroll Hagley Park and its lush Botanic Garden, then explore the Arts Centre's galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Drive across Canterbury's emerald plains to a working sheep farm and watch champion New Zealand sheepdogs herd by whistled command.

Located in the Marlborough region of New Zealand, the town of Picton is near the head of Queen Charlotte Sound on the South Island. The town is named after Sir Thomas Picton, the military associate of the Duke of Wellington, who was killed at the Battle of Waterloo. The Edwin Fox Maritime Centre features the Edwin Fox, the only surviving ship that transported convicts to Australia, which is undergoing preservation and restoration.

Wellington, New Zealand's "Creative Capital," is a compact city at the south end of the North Island, rich in Victorian architecture, museums, theaters, and galleries. See Weta Workshop and Parliament, enjoy excellent coffee and craft beer in laneway cafes and pubs, take in harbor-and-mountain views from Mt. Victoria, ride the cable car to the botanic gardens, and visit Te Papa and Zealandia for insights into New Zealand's culture and nature.

The twin cities of Napier and Hastings, located within the region of Hawke's Bay on the East Coast of New Zealand's North Island, are unique. The area is blessed with a Californian-Mediterranean climate, boasting one of the highest sunshine averages in the country. The area is also dotted with colorful vineyards and orchards, with some of the most fertile farmland you will see. Within the region are more than twenty of New Zealand's finest vineyards.

Gisborne, named for the Endeavour crew member who first sighted land here in 1769, is a charming seaside city known for its maritime history, vibrant Māori heritage, and wine-often called New Zealand's "Chardonnay Capital." Visit its boutique wineries and the Tairāwhiti Museum for a taste of local history and art.

From Tauranga's beaches and Mount Maunganui, travel to Rotorua for geothermal wonders and Māori heritage: Te Puia's geysers, mud pools, native bush, a recreated early Māori village, and a kiwi conservation center. South of Rotorua, hike the redwoods of Whakarewarewa Forest, or head to Waikato to see the Hobbiton Movie Set, the Shire from Peter Jackson's Tolkien films.

Auckland sits on a narrow isthmus between the Waitemata and Manukau harbors. Its volcanic landscape includes Maungawhau/Mount Eden, the city's highest point, Maungakiekie/One Tree Hill and Maungarei/Mount Wellington. Browse Queen Street or Parnell's galleries and boutiques, visit the Sky Tower, and take a harbor cruise to see why it's the "City of Sails," then enjoy its restaurants, bars and cafes.

Queensland's capital, Brisbane, is a sun-drenched city with a spectacular riverfront, lush gardens and a huge range of international cuisines. At South Bank, relax on Streets Beach while viewing the sparkling "Brissie" skyline. Stroll past jacarandas, flame trees and bougainvillea to the Cultural Precinct and the Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art. Nearby attractions include Australia Zoo, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast.

Soak up Airlie Beach's laid-back tropical vibe, with palm-fringed beaches, waterfront parks, and alfresco dining. Stroll Shute Harbour Road, the town's main street, lined with restaurants, cafes, and bars. Airlie Beach is also the gateway to the Whitsundays-74 pristine islands in Queensland's Great Barrier Reef-where you can enjoy luxury resorts, poolside cocktails, sunbathing, and spa relaxation.

Cairns, a laid-back Far North Queensland city, is the gateway to two World Heritage treasures: the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest. Cruise by luxury catamaran to a pontoon on the Outer Reef, or ride the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway over lush jungle and explore the world's oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest. In Cairns ("cans"), stroll the Esplanade, swim in the saltwater lagoon, and visit the Botanic Gardens, Cairns Aquarium, shops, and cafes.

Cooktown, a quaint frontier town on Cape York Peninsula in Far North Queensland, was the site of Australia's first European settlement. Named for Captain Cook, it's marked by Cook's Pillar, where the Endeavour landed in 1770. Grassy Hill offers 360° views over countryside and pristine beaches. Nearby, a near-wilderness of mountains, eucalypts, mangroves, rainforests, heathlands, grasslands, and rivers awaits adventurous travelers.

Along the coast of the Northern Territory lies Darwin, a city isolated by the vast Australian desert. The area was sought by the French, Dutch and British, and was established as the town of Darwin in 1869. In 1942, the city was under the threat of a Japanese attack, so a major Australian military base was established. Today Darwin is the largest city of the Northern Territory, offering sights from its colonial past and excellent shopping and dining opportunities.

Indonesia's isolated Komodo Island is a natural wonder of tropical savanna and scrubland, home to the famed pre-historic Komodo dragon. Komodo National Park is the only place on earth that they can be found in the wild. The island of Komodo itself is about 60 squares miles in area with dramatic landscapes of 2,000 foot craggy mountains, canyons, Savannas and monsoon rain forests in the valleys. Human habitation is therefore limited to only one settlement in Slawi Bay.

Discover a hidden-gem island where tranquility meets natural wonders. Dive into the azure waters of Lembar Strait, explore coral reefs, relax on Selong Belanak Beach, and trek Mount Rinjani for breathtaking sunrise views. Experience Sasak culture in Sade and Ende, where artisans craft textiles and pottery by hand, and savor authentic cuisine from spicy sambal to grilled seafood.

Benoa's charms are most evident in Nusa Dua, one of the most beautiful beaches in already-legendary Bali. In this land of rice terraces, spectacular volcanoes and over 20,000 temples, the main destination is the stunning 17th-century royal temple complex of Pura Taman Ayun in nearby Mengwi, surrounded by a lotus-filled moat, giving it the feel of a garden sanctuary. Another favorite is the Sunset Temple, Tanah Lot, and don't miss the batik factories for that perfect gift or souvenir.

Benoa's charms are most evident in Nusa Dua, one of the most beautiful beaches in already-legendary Bali. In this land of rice terraces, spectacular volcanoes and over 20,000 temples, the main destination is the stunning 17th-century royal temple complex of Pura Taman Ayun in nearby Mengwi, surrounded by a lotus-filled moat, giving it the feel of a garden sanctuary. Another favorite is the Sunset Temple, Tanah Lot, and don't miss the batik factories for that perfect gift or souvenir.

Benoa's charms are most evident in Nusa Dua, one of the most beautiful beaches in already-legendary Bali. In this land of rice terraces, spectacular volcanoes and over 20,000 temples, the main destination is the stunning 17th-century royal temple complex of Pura Taman Ayun in nearby Mengwi, surrounded by a lotus-filled moat, giving it the feel of a garden sanctuary. Another favorite is the Sunset Temple, Tanah Lot, and don't miss the batik factories for that perfect gift or souvenir.

Surabaya, East Java's capital, is a gateway city with diverse neighborhoods, from Buddhist temples to an historic Arab Quarter. Highlights include the 19th-century Dutch colonial House of Sampoerna museum, café and gallery, and the turquoise-domed Al Akbar Mosque, opened in 2000, with city views from its minaret. Try East Javanese seafood dishes.

Semarang is a city on the north coast of the island of Java, Indonesia. A major port during the Dutch colonial era, the city is known in Indonesia for its large ethnically Chinese population. Today, Semarang is a commercial port and administrative capital of Central Java. More a business center than a city for tourists, it is, however, an excellent gateway to the mountainous interior of Central Java and only some 60 miles away from world-famous Borobudur.

Jakarta is the capital and largest city of Indonesia, located on the northwest coast of Java. It is sprawling with shopping malls and traditional markets, and is known for its inexpensive, but fair quality textile and fashion products. Don't miss the Istiqlal Mosque, the largest in Southeast Asia, and the National Monument in Merdeka Square. Visit the National Museum to learn more about the cultural heritage of Indonesia.

This island nation at the end of the Malaysian peninsula offers rich culture, history, and cuisine. Explore Chinatown, the Arab Quarter, and Little India; take in harbor views at Boat Quay; shop along Orchard Road; enjoy a night safari at Singapore Zoo; relax in Bukit Timah Nature Preserve; wander futuristic Gardens by the Bay; and unwind with a Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel.

This island nation at the end of the Malaysian peninsula offers rich culture, history, and cuisine. Explore Chinatown, the Arab Quarter, and Little India; take in harbor views at Boat Quay; shop along Orchard Road; enjoy a night safari at Singapore Zoo; relax in Bukit Timah Nature Preserve; wander futuristic Gardens by the Bay; and unwind with a Singapore Sling at the iconic Raffles Hotel.

Spend the day discovering this cosmopolitan city and its many cultural layers, from the Petronas Towers and Royal Palace to Gothic churches, Colonial remnants, and a restored Malay timber house in a heritage center. Browse markets and shops for crafts, pewter, jewelry, and batik. Enjoy the fusion of Malay, Chinese, and continental cuisine-try curry, spicy broiled duck, satay, or broiled fish.

Pulau Pinang, as it is known locally, is the northern gateway to Malaysia and also the country's oldest British settlement. The word "Pinang" in Malay refers to the areca nut palm, which provides the betel nut, an essential ingredient in a delicacy chewed by millions in the Far East. Today Georgetown is noted for the largest collection of pre-war houses in all of Southeast Asia and the Penang Heritage Trust has been established to maintain its unique heritage.

With a land area of 215 square miles, Phuket Island is about the same size as Singapore, making it Thailand's largest island. Known as the "Pearl of Thailand," this beautiful retreat offers pristine beaches, lush vegetation, traditional villages, and seascapes of huge limestone pillars that tower over the turquoise waters of Phang-Nga Bay. Apart from tourism, much of the province's wealth derives from tin production, which started back in the 16th century.

Colombo, once the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Kandy, has welcomed Roman, Chinese, Arab, and European traders for over 2,000 years. See its colonial landmarks-the Presidential Secretariat, Grand Oriental Hotel, and Lighthouse Clock Tower-and visit Pettah, the city's bustling bazaar district. Also notable: Viharamahadevi Park and the mansions of Cinnamon Gardens.

Malé, the capital of the Republic of Maldives, is located at the southern edge of North Male' Atoll Kaafu Atoll. Traditionally, Malé was the "King's Island," from where the ancient Maldive Royal families had their palace and ruled the country. Malé is dotted with mosques, wide streets, parks and markets. Tour the national Museum, the colorful Fish Market and the Friday mosque with its splendid golden dome.

Mahé, the largest island of the Seychelles, was named for Mahé de Labourdonnais, a governor of Mauritius. It is the location of Port Victoria, the capital city. Ringed by steep and magnificent mountains, few capitals can claim a more beautiful backdrop. The nearby reefs and pristine marine national parks are a snorkeler's paradise

Antsiranana (Diego Suarez), at Madagascar's northern tip, is a port city known for its colonial charm and natural beauty. See the emerald waters of Diego Suarez Bay, Sugarloaf Mountain, the crimson cliffs of Tsingy Rouge Park, and the forests of Kakazo-Be with ancient trees and wildlife. Explore markets and the city's blend of Malagasy and French influences.

The charming capital city offers lush mountain ranges, fine beaches, stunning coral reefs and picturesque villages. Learn of the rich cultural heritage Port Louis' five districts have to offer or admire the natural beauty of this volcanic island situated in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar.

The charming capital city offers lush mountain ranges, fine beaches, stunning coral reefs and picturesque villages. Learn of the rich cultural heritage Port Louis' five districts have to offer or admire the natural beauty of this volcanic island situated in the Indian Ocean east of Madagascar.

Pointe des Galets is the principal port of Réunion Island, is a visual paradise as it emerging from the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Its dramatic landscapes include lush mountains and volcanic peaks and white- and black sand beaches. A major attraction remains the fascinating and still active volcano, Piton de la Fournaise.

Discover Nosy Be, scented with native spices and flowers, and nearby Nosy Komba, home to lemurs found only in this region. Start with a stroll through Hellville's city center and open market. Then hire a driver for an island tour to see bright blue volcanic lakes, or take a boat to Nosy Komba for the lemurs. Back in Nosy Be, shop for local perfume, distilled rum, fine linens, and hand-carved wooden art. Enjoy fresh seafood seasoned with local spices in this colorful, aromatic destination.

Durban, a bustling subtropical city and Africa's busiest port, was named Natal by Vasco da Gama in 1497, then renamed Durban in 1843 for Sir Benjamin D'Urban. Today it offers a colorful mix of ethnic neighborhoods and excursions to game reserves and Zulu culture. Explore Old Market Square, the Golden Mile beachfront, the Botanic Gardens, and Gray Street Mosque, the largest in the southern hemisphere.

Located at the endpoint of South Africa's picturesque Garden Route, Port Elizabeth is nicknamed "The Friendly City." While regarded as one of the country's most important seaports, Port Elizabeth is also considered the water sports capital of South Africa. Visitors enjoy the area's beaches, scuba diving, game fishing, surfing and whale watching.

Located at the endpoint of South Africa's picturesque Garden Route, Port Elizabeth is nicknamed "The Friendly City." While regarded as one of the country's most important seaports, Port Elizabeth is also considered the water sports capital of South Africa. Visitors enjoy the area's beaches, scuba diving, game fishing, surfing and whale watching.

Situated halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay offers more than 37 miles of beaches and at least 300 days of sunshine a year. Known as the location where the first Europeans made landfall on South African soil in 1488, today's Mossel Bay is one of the country's most popular beach destinations, as well as a haven for outdoor adventurers.

Called "the fairest cape in the whole circumference of the earth" and one of the world's most beautiful cities, Cape Town offers museums, parks and shops, plus mountains, beaches and wineries. Ride a cable car up Table Mountain for views of valleys and the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. A historical highlight is Robben Island, once home to anti-apartheid leaders including Nelson Mandela.

Called "the fairest cape in the whole circumference of the earth" and one of the world's most beautiful cities, Cape Town offers museums, parks and shops, plus mountains, beaches and wineries. Ride a cable car up Table Mountain for views of valleys and the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. A historical highlight is Robben Island, once home to anti-apartheid leaders including Nelson Mandela.