Tahitian Treasures

Considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere, Sydney offers just about anything—from beaches and wineries to stunning landmarks and world-class shopping. Tour architectural marvels like the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbor Bridge, view life below the surface from Sydney Aquarium’s underwater walkways, or take it all in from above on a tour of the Sydney Tower.

Those who love beaches consider these some of the world’s finest, with their perfect white sand and crystal-clear water. And as tempted as you’ll be to pull up a lounge chair and soak in the surroundings, many consider this the ideal place to partake in more active pursuits, such as kayaking, mountain-biking, parasailing, swimming with dolphins and scuba-diving.

Your official welcome to New Zealand comes by way of a bustling harbor. Step ashore and into a surprisingly cosmopolitan environment. And once you venture inland, even more surprises await, including a total of 48 dormant volcanoes, a lush, leafy urban cityscape filled with beautiful parks, and a number of renowned art galleries.

This imaginary line runs roughly parallel to the 180° longitudinal line. As you travel east you’ll subtract 24 hours from your current time, and add 24 hours as you travel west across it.

Raiatea is the second largest of the Society Islands, after Tahiti, in French Polynesia. The island is widely regarded as the “centre” of the eastern islands in ancient Polynesia and it is likely that the organised migrations to the Hawaiian Islands, New Zealand and other parts of East Polynesia started at Raiatea.

Her beauty once inspired artist Paul Gauguin. Now she’ll do the same for you. You can visit the Musée Gauguin to see how he translated this island sanctuary’s beauty onto canvas, or perhaps embark on a four-wheel-drive or equestrian adventure inland to see the rain forests and canyons that make this such an idyllic destination.

Moorea is a unique volcanic island surrounded by languid lagoons and both white- and black – sand beaches. You’ll certainly want to explore the reefs that ring the island, either by snorkel or kayak, or check out the bay where Captain Cook first dropped anchor on his way to “discovering” this paradise. You can also travel inland to the magnificent Afareaitu Falls.

The most prominent feature of Maui is Haleakala, the world’s largest dormant volcano. And from the historic town of Lahaina, you might also witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles: the annual migration of humpback whales returning to their winter feeding grounds, which takes place between December and March.

Honolulu offers multiple attractions, from Pearl Harbor to Iolani Palace—a landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You’ll enjoy exploring this city, which seems to rise up out of the lush Hawaiian flora.