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.

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.

Aitutaki is a triangular-shaped atoll rising up 4,000 meters from the floor of the Pacific Ocean. It consists of three volcanic and 12 coral islets (motus). It was probably first settled around 900 AD and one of the great legendary Polynesian discoverers was Ru who named it Utataki Enua O Ru Ki Te Moana. Roughly translated, this means "The Leading of a Cargo of People by Ru Over the Ocean." It can be inferred that Aitutaki was, therefore, the ultimate destination.

Located on Tutuila, the largest of the Samoan islands in the South Pacific Ocean, Pago Pago is the capital of American Samoa. First settled by the Polynesians around 600 BC, the islands became a territory of the US in 1900. An important coaling station and naval base, the Pago Pago harbor proved to be of strategic importance during World War II. Today its beauty and ecological diversity make it a popular tourist destination.

Samoa is a nine-island nation about 1,700 miles northeast of New Zealand, first settled around 1000 BC by Polynesians. In Apia, visit Maketi Fou on Fugalei Street and the flea market for souvenirs like clubs, kava bowls, sarongs, baskets, and jewelry. Enjoy blue lagoons, beaches, waterfalls, and rainforests, see Robert Louis Stevenson's restored home on Mount Vaea, and try fish wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an umu.

Explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life while snorkeling and diving, especially at Swallows Cave and Mariners Cave. Whale watching is a highlight during humpback migration season from July to October. Enjoy kayaking or sailing in the turquoise waters of the Port of Refuge harbor. On land, hike Mt. Talau for panoramic views and visit local markets for Tongan crafts. Vava'u's friendly culture and stunning natural beauty make it memorable.

Savusavu was originally established as a trading center for sandalwood, beche-de-mer and copra, and is the site of a major copra mill. Tourism is growing in importance, owing to its diving and yachting facilities. Geothermal energy is resource waiting to be tapped. A geological survey has found that Savusavu's hot springs could generate enough electricity to power the entire island of Vanua Levu. Savusavu has been called "The Hidden Paradise" of Fiji.

Dravuni, a tiny island in Fiji's Kadavu Group, is prized for its tranquil beauty and pristine coral reefs, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and beachcombing. Only half a mile long, it remains unspoiled and community-owned, offering a rare glimpse of traditional Fijian village life. Hike to its highest point for sweeping views of turquoise water and nearby islets, or relax on palm-lined beaches.

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.

Espiritu Santo is often called Vanuatu's crown jewel, with pristine beaches and dense rainforest. From quiet Luganville, head north to the crystal-clear Riri Blue Hole to swim, dive, or kayak. During World War II, nearly 40,000 US troops were stationed in Luganville; a small museum shows artifacts from the nearby SS President Coolidge wreck, sunk by a mine in 1942 and now a favorite snorkeling and diving site.

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.

Capital of the French territory New Caledonia, Nouméa played an important role in World War II, serving as the headquarters of the United States military in the Pacific. It boasts the most sunshine of any Pacific island capital, and is also the most European-influenced. Called "The Paris of the Pacific," it features fine French dining, designer boutiques, and cosmopolitan residents. Just off the coast, the longest barrier reef in the world shelters 350 species of coral and 1,500 species of fish.

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.