San Francisco to Auckland

When John Fremont sailed into San Francisco in 1846, he found no famous bridge, but a golden light reflecting off the high cliffs that flank the bay’s only entrance. He named it Golden Gate and its glowing welcome still creates a striking first impression today.

Combine the languid allure of the tropics, big city sophistication and the spirit of Aloha, and you’ve discovered Oahu. Known as “The Gathering Place”, this Pacific crossroads is a tapestry of cultural diversity from Polynesian sensuality and Oriental mystique to American pragmatism. And it all blends together in one of the most harmonious gatherings in the world.

Combine the languid allure of the tropics, big city sophistication and the spirit of Aloha, and you’ve discovered Oahu. Known as “The Gathering Place”, this Pacific crossroads is a tapestry of cultural diversity from Polynesian sensuality and Oriental mystique to American pragmatism. And it all blends together in one of the most harmonious gatherings in the world.

Apia is Samoa’s wonderful capital, sitting on a natural harbour at the mouth of the Vaisigano River. It is praised widely for its luscious interiors, beautiful beaches, waterfalls and friendly locals.
Apia retains some of its wooden colonial buildings, most notably the old courthouse, which has an interesting museum on its upper floor. It is also the burial place of writer Robert Louis Stevenson.

Try the ceremonial drink yaqona or kava, made from the root of the pepper tree. You’ll find it everywhere, including Suva’s must-see market, piled high with tropical fruits, exotic vegetables, freshly caught fish and – reflecting Fiji’s rich cultural flavour – brightly coloured Indian sweets.

In a nation where stunning scenery is taken for granted, this water wonderland sparkles like a freshly polished jewel. Over 48 extinct volcanoes cloaked in wild mountainous scenery encircle the “City of Sails”. An undulating succession of bays and inlets stretch along its endless shores. Even the downtown area with its expansive, farm-like parks exudes a sense of spacious beauty.