Hong Kong blends an iconic harbor skyline with lush mountains and parks. Explore its culture and history at Man Mo Temple, ride the steep funicular to Victoria Peak, cruise a fishing village by sampan, and unwind on the sands of Repulse Bay. After shopping in Asia's commercial hub, enjoy dai pai dong street food and yum cha tea with dim sum.

Manila, the Philippine capital, was founded by King Philip II of Spain. Spain later kept the Dutch, Portuguese, and Chinese from settling there. Britain occupied Manila during the Seven Years' War but returned it to Spain in 1763. In WWII, Japan seized it in 1942; the U.S. later recaptured the islands, which were returned to the Philippines. In 1946, the country gained full independence.

Coron, in northern Palawan's Calamian Islands, is famed for karst limestone, sparkling waters, and some of the Philippines' most picturesque scenery. The Tagbanwa people have called it home for over 20,000 years. Highlights include Kayangan and Barracuda Lakes, Banol Beach, Twin Lagoon, and the Mt. Tapyas climb in Coron Town for sweeping views of crystal-clear Coron Bay.

Puerto Princesa, the capital of Palawan in the Philippines, lies 306 nautical miles southwest of Manila. Named after a mythical young woman, it is known for pristine beaches and lush wilderness. Don't miss the underground river, the world's longest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For snorkeling and island hopping, visit Honda Bay and its many islets.

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.

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.

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.

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.