13 Nights Australia

Auckland is a lively fusion of international style, local creativity and Polynesian charm. Its urban personality is bold, fast and fashionable, while its seaside ambiance ranges from rugged and untamed to smooth and tranquil.

Here you can see where modern New Zealand was born. The Bay of Islands is located 140 miles north of Auckland, New Zealand, in the long finger-like stretch that runs from Auckland to Cape Reinga. Geographically speaking, the Bay of Islands is a "drowned river system" - an area where the sea has inundated a series of river valleys. The Bay of Islands is the finest Maritime Park in New Zealand, with secluded bays and an abundance of marine life. Ever since Captain Cook sailed into this bay containing nearly 150 islands, the region has become a sightseer and settler's delight. Every imaginable water sport is pursued with big game fishing a particular favorite. The Bay's three principal towns Waitangi, Paihia and Russell provide excellent tourist facilities while retaining many monuments to their lively histories.

The capital of Fiji, Suva, is the largest metropolitan city in the island country. With a tropical rainforest climate, expect rains almost every day. Here, you can visit its several parks, the Fiji Museum in Thurston Gardens, the Suva City Library or the Carnegie Library, and the University of the South Pacific.

Serving as the entry point to Fiji is Lautoka, which has been nicknamed Sugar City for its sugar cane belt areas. As you make a stop here, you can visit some of the quaint cafes and enjoy a cup as you marvel at Mt. Koroyanitu in the background.

Pago Pago stands as the urban centre of American Samao, and is best known for its busy harbour that's surrounded by a lush jungle of trees and a scenic backdrop of mountains. This quaint harbour town is part of the National Park of American Samoa, which means you can go for some outdoor adventures as you enjoy its cosmopolitan sensibilities.

At the central north coast of Upolu is Apia, the capital city of Samoa. Here, you'll find a great collection of restaurants, clubs, shops, and a few markets for souvenirs. There are also some scenic views from the coast, as well as a wealth of cultural attractions to keep you busy.

The principal city of the Bay of Plenty is a popular Kiwi summer resort with notorious military and missionary legacies. Its legendary Waitomo Caves comprises a vast underground network of water-sculpted, cathedral-like limestone grottoes. Big-game fishing and scuba diving abounds.

Auckland is a lively fusion of international style, local creativity and Polynesian charm. Its urban personality is bold, fast and fashionable, while its seaside ambiance ranges from rugged and untamed to smooth and tranquil.