The Fiji archipelago consists of tiny coral atolls and mountainous forest-clad islands of volcanic origin, and is famed for its aquamarine waters and white sand beaches. Lautoka, meaning "spear-hit" or "hit to win," was named that as a result of an argument between two chiefs. It is sited in the western side of the largest island in Fiji. The city is surrounded with the blue Pacific Ocean on the western side and green gold sugar cane and pine trees on the other sides.

Champagne Bay on Vanuatu's Espiritu Santo Island is famed for its bright blue holes-freshwater springs that form vivid blue pools-plus fluffy white sand, lush rainforest, and rich underwater scenery. Relax under coconut palms, dive the WWII wreck of a former luxury ocean liner, then enjoy steamed lobster and browse traditional sarongs or authentic local carvings.

Honiara, capital of the Solomon Islands, is known for lush vegetation, snorkeling and diving, and above all for WWII Guadalcanal history (1942-43). Visit memorial gardens with carilla trees honoring US soldiers, war museums with airplane remains, and battlefields in western Guadalcanal. For local life and flora, explore Central Market and Botanical Gardens.

Vanuatu has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence dating to 2000 BC. In 1605, Pedro Fernández de Quirós was the first European to reach it; later James Cook named the islands New Hebrides. Visit a Melanesian village in Erakor Rainforest, hike to a 65-foot waterfall and swim in a rock pool, sail to Pango Peninsula and snorkel Paradise Cove, and browse markets for island jewelry, handicrafts, and sarongs.

Mystery Island is a remote, undeveloped escape with soothing colors, palm-frond rustling, and sparkling clear water. Snorkel its thriving coral reefs and watch for clownfish, parrotfish, and the occasional sea turtle. Stand-up paddleboard lessons and massages are available. Enjoy a perfect beach feast of freshly cooked lobster and banana pie, prepared and served by residents of nearby Aneityum Island.

The Fiji archipelago consists of tiny coral atolls and mountainous forest-clad islands of volcanic origin, and is famed for its aquamarine waters and white sand beaches. Lautoka, meaning "spear-hit" or "hit to win," was named that as a result of an argument between two chiefs. It is sited in the western side of the largest island in Fiji. The city is surrounded with the blue Pacific Ocean on the western side and green gold sugar cane and pine trees on the other sides.