Canada To Australia Grand Voyage

Snow-capped mountains peak out from behind tall glass skyscrapers on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. Nestled somewhere between eastern culture and western tradition, Vancouver is a study in nature and urbanity coexisting peacefully.

A drizzly little city bordered by the Tongass National Forest, Ketchikan was once a native fishing village that has evolved and grown through its years in the logging and salmon canning industries. Surrounded by lakes, rivers, and streams, the “Salmon Capital of the World” is an angler’s paradise. Cast a line on your own, or hop on a charter to reel in salmon, halibut, red snapper, even trout. Keep an eye out for Ketchikan’s other marine residents, which include orca and humpback whales, sea lions, seals, otters, and porpoises. Zipline between cedars over a lush forest of Sitka spruce, hike Married Man’s Trail to surrounding waterfalls, kayak the twist of waterways along the Misty Fjords, or board a seaplane for a bird’s eye view of it all.

Located on Chichagof Island, Icy Strait Point is built on the site of the former Hoonah Packing Company salmon cannery. The facilities restored outbuildings now house a variety of restaurants, a museum, and local arts and crafts shops. More than just a tourist destination, the port is a cultural hub for the original inhabitants of the area—the Huna people. In addition to modern amenities, you can enjoy a variety of activities indigenous to the area including native dance performances, brown bear viewings, and whale watching.

Once a location for Russian fur traders and the site of the Dalton Toll during the Klondike Rush, Haines has long been a traditional stopping place for those on their way to Alaska’s interior or to Canada’s Yukon. With its rugged mountain vistas and seascapes, Haines offers plenty of adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, biking, and kayaking are just a few ways you can explore this glacial paradise. For the ultimate experience, grab a snow machine, boat tour, seaplane, or even try heli-skiing and bring your inner adventurer even closer to Haines’s rugged landscape. Also known as the “Valley of the Eagles,” Haines is a birder’s paradise. With nearly 400 bald eagles calling the region home and 260 different species of birds visiting the Chilkat Valley at any given time, you can rest assured you’ve never seen variety like this in the wild.

Experience the breathtaking expanse and beauty of the Hubbard Glacier. Named after National Geographic’s first society president, Gardiner Hubbard, this frosty-blue glacier is a sight, unlike anything you’ve ever seen. While many of the world’s glaciers are retreating, the 8-mile-wide Hubbard Glacier continues to “gallop” across the Russell Fjord, at times temporarily damning its passage. The longest ice river in North America, this 76-mile stretch of glacier water begins at Mount Logan in Canada’s Yukon and meanders its way through Alaska to the Russell Fjord Wilderness. Witness this awe-inspiring phenomenon from onboard as you cruise through the misty, chilled air of the Gulf of Alaska. See whales, harbor seals, and otters hunting as your ship turns from Yakutat Bay into the narrow Disenchantment Bay to come face-to-face with the towering Hubbard Glacier.

Seward is one of Alaska’s oldest communities. Lying at the foot of Mount Marathon on Resurrection Bay, this scenic city offers unlimited ways to explore its natural splendor. Founded in the early 20th century as settlers plotted the construction of the northbound rail line, Seward’s ice-free port and crowning Harding Icefield quickly established the city as an important shipping terminal on the Kenai Peninsula and the southern terminus of the Iditarod National Historic trail. Temperate rainforest climate and active glaciers combine to offer countless tidewaters, marine-rich waters, lush forest trails, and a variety of wildlife.

Referred to by locals as the Emerald Isle for its rolling green mountains, Kodiak is a verdant paradise. Nearly leveled by the Good Friday Earthquake, today Kodiak has fully recovered as one of the top fishing ports in the US for salmon, halibut, crab, and more. Originally inhabited by the Alutiiq natives, Kodiak has been both a site for Russian fur trading and a naval base during World Word II. Remnants of each of these influences can still be seen today as you walk the streets of Kodiak. From the blue cupolas of the Holy Resurrection Orthodox Cathedral to the Fort Abercrombie State Historical Park, Kodiak is a history buff’s dream. Step into the Alutiiq Museum and Archeological Repository to explore the largest collection of Alutiiq artifacts in the state, or stroll along the docks at St. Paul Boat Harbor and explore the Kodiak Maritime Museum.

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean to the South and the Bering Sea to the North, Dutch Harbor’s position between Alaska’s mainland and Russia has endowed the port with a unique heritage and history as the only American port besides Pearl Harbor to be bombed during World War II. Today Dutch Harbor is one of the richest fishing ports in the US, bringing in huge harvests of pollock, cod, and most famously, Alaskan king crab, as documented on the hit series Deadliest Catch. The vast marine life of this area attracts more than 40 million seabirds to the region, making Dutch Harbor a birder’s paradise. Bald eagles, short-tailed albatross, and horned puffins—all share the bounty of these waters with sea lions, sea otters, harbor porpoises, and humpback whales. Take a charter boat to see these majestic creatures for yourself, or take to the water in a sea-kayak for an up-close look.

It’s hard to imagine Tokyo as a tiny fishing village named Edo. Tokyo is now the largest metropolitan area in the world, an exciting city with a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, restaurants, museums, temples, and gardens to visit.

Found on Japan’s main island, Honshu, Aomori City spends most of the year offering visitors a taste of a sleepy, seaside city mixed with forward-looking developments and modern art. Combining the history of an established port town with modern facilities and attractions, the city has been called the economic and cultural center of the area.

Sakaiminato’s history is steeped in fishing tradition. Now the base of Western Japan’s fishing industry, Sakaiminato has been an open trading port with the U.S. and U.K. since 1899. Today the port town continues to be a haven for seafood lovers with fish markets and world-class restaurants scattered along its streets, making it the perfect place for visitors to taste the catch of the day.

It is Pusans premier trading port, adjacent to the Korean Straits and Japan, that makes it an international metropolis but its beautiful sea vistas that make it a charming place to unwind. Experience the serenity of Beomeo-sa Temple, climb the Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park and rejuvenate at Hushimchung Spa.

It is Pusans premier trading port, adjacent to the Korean Straits and Japan, that makes it an international metropolis but its beautiful sea vistas that make it a charming place to unwind. Experience the serenity of Beomeo-sa Temple, climb the Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park and rejuvenate at Hushimchung Spa.

This “city of water and peace” is built in one of the most sheltered harbors on the Seto Inland Sea and is much more than the painful past it both honors and defies. Reflect and ring the bell of peace at Peace Memorial Park, then ferry to the holy island of Miyajima, famed for its Itsukushima Shrine and floating torii.

Kochi Prefecture, on Japan’s Shikoku Island, is a largely rural area known for its mountains, rivers and Pacific beaches. Capital Kochi City has one of Japan’s best preserved feudal castles, Kochi-jo, established in the 1600s. The citys centuries-old Sunday market has hundreds of vendors selling food and other wares. Summers Yosakoi Matsuri is a festival in which colorfully attired dance teams fill the streets.

Famous for the beef that bears it name, Kobe is headquarters for numerous Japanese and international firms, and has long been an important port. It is also a short bullet train ride from Kyoto, ancient capital of Japan from the 8th to the 19th century. Here vestiges of the past are easier to find than in many of Japans modern, high-tech cities: countless temples and shrines, the palaces and castles of shoguns and emperors, and narrow lanes paved in stone and lined with wooden buildings housing shops and restaurants that have been serving travelers for centuries.

Famous for the beef that bears it name, Kobe is headquarters for numerous Japanese and international firms, and has long been an important port. It is also a short bullet train ride from Kyoto, ancient capital of Japan from the 8th to the 19th century. Here vestiges of the past are easier to find than in many of Japans modern, high-tech cities: countless temples and shrines, the palaces and castles of shoguns and emperors, and narrow lanes paved in stone and lined with wooden buildings housing shops and restaurants that have been serving travelers for centuries.

Japan’s Mt. Fuji is an active volcano about 100 kilometers southwest of Tokyo. Commonly called “Fuji-san,” it’s the country’s tallest peak, at 3,776 meters. A pilgrimage site for centuries, it’s considered one of Japan’s 3 sacred mountains, and summit hikes remain a popular activity. Its iconic profile is the subject of numerous works of art, notably Edo Period prints by Hokusai and Hiroshige.

It’s hard to imagine Tokyo as a tiny fishing village named Edo. Tokyo is now the largest metropolitan area in the world, an exciting city with a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, restaurants, museums, temples, and gardens to visit.

It’s hard to imagine Tokyo as a tiny fishing village named Edo. Tokyo is now the largest metropolitan area in the world, an exciting city with a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, restaurants, museums, temples, and gardens to visit.

It’s hard to imagine Tokyo as a tiny fishing village named Edo. Tokyo is now the largest metropolitan area in the world, an exciting city with a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, restaurants, museums, temples, and gardens to visit.

Famous for the beef that bears it name, Kobe is headquarters for numerous Japanese and international firms, and has long been an important port. It is also a short bullet train ride from Kyoto, ancient capital of Japan from the 8th to the 19th century. Here vestiges of the past are easier to find than in many of Japans modern, high-tech cities: countless temples and shrines, the palaces and castles of shoguns and emperors, and narrow lanes paved in stone and lined with wooden buildings housing shops and restaurants that have been serving travelers for centuries.

Famous for the beef that bears it name, Kobe is headquarters for numerous Japanese and international firms, and has long been an important port. It is also a short bullet train ride from Kyoto, ancient capital of Japan from the 8th to the 19th century. Here vestiges of the past are easier to find than in many of Japans modern, high-tech cities: countless temples and shrines, the palaces and castles of shoguns and emperors, and narrow lanes paved in stone and lined with wooden buildings housing shops and restaurants that have been serving travelers for centuries.

Kochi Prefecture, on Japan’s Shikoku Island, is a largely rural area known for its mountains, rivers and Pacific beaches. Capital Kochi City has one of Japan’s best preserved feudal castles, Kochi-jo, established in the 1600s. The citys centuries-old Sunday market has hundreds of vendors selling food and other wares. Summers Yosakoi Matsuri is a festival in which colorfully attired dance teams fill the streets.

This “city of water and peace” is built in one of the most sheltered harbors on the Seto Inland Sea and is much more than the painful past it both honors and defies. Reflect and ring the bell of peace at Peace Memorial Park, then ferry to the holy island of Miyajima, famed for its Itsukushima Shrine and floating torii.

Discover the natural beauty of seaside Kagoshima, a city surrounded by beautiful mountain backdrops and dozens of local hot springs. While nearly all visitors make their way to see the volcanic heights of Mt. Sakurajima, attractions such as the historic village of Chiran and the Kagoshima Botanical Garden prove equally compelling places to stop and take a deep breath.

Historically rich Nagasaki features beautiful seaside scenery and fabulous nighttime views from its mountain slopes. Secluded hot springs, fascinating museums, and ornate temples live side by side in this exciting city. Ten natural parks grace the area, and unique festivals can be experienced throughout the year. Walk through streets influenced by both Chinese and European cultures in fascinating Nagasaki.

Fukuoka, capital of Fukuoka Prefecture, sits on the northern shore of Japan’s Kyushu Island. It’s known for ancient temples, beaches and modern shopping malls, including Canal City. Maizuru Park contains ruins of 17th-century Fukuoka Castle. The central Hakata district contains Tōchō-ji Temple, home to a 10m wooden Buddha and the Hakata Machiya Folk Museum, with displays on daily life in the Meiji and Taishō eras.

It is Pusans premier trading port, adjacent to the Korean Straits and Japan, that makes it an international metropolis but its beautiful sea vistas that make it a charming place to unwind. Experience the serenity of Beomeo-sa Temple, climb the Busan Tower in Yongdusan Park and rejuvenate at Hushimchung Spa.

Warm oceanic climate. Island dotted coast. Brilliant night lights. Nestled between verdant mountains, Yeosu has small town charm with big city potential. This hidden gem on the southern coast of South Korea is on the verge of becoming a world-class vacation destination.

In the worlds 10th largest city, the past and present merge, as soaring skyscrapers stand guard over ancient palaces, gardens and shrines. Marvel at the four royal palaces of the Joseon Dynasty, browse the shops, galleries and teahouses of Insa-dong, see the Great South Gate and enjoy the view from Seoul Tower.

The “Diamond of the Bohai Gulf,” Tianjin is Chinas largest northern seaport, a dazzling blend of downtown sophistication and ancient history. Traverse the dragon-like Huangyaguan “Yellow Cliff” Pass of the Great Wall or stroll Gu Wehua Jie for a glimpse of Qing Dynasty architecture and take home a Weiji kite.

The “Diamond of the Bohai Gulf,” Tianjin is Chinas largest northern seaport, a dazzling blend of downtown sophistication and ancient history. Traverse the dragon-like Huangyaguan “Yellow Cliff” Pass of the Great Wall or stroll Gu Wehua Jie for a glimpse of Qing Dynasty architecture and take home a Weiji kite.

For one of China’s youngest cities, Dalian is full of history, culture, and more than a few things to see and do. A low-key change of pace from more bustling Chinese cities, it offers the ideal blend of modern history and traditional Chinese culture, all in beautiful natural surroundings. The history of Dalian is one of colonialism and conquest, having changed hands from British, Russian, and Japanese occupation over the last 100 years. You’ll find influences from all three world powers all over the city, particularly in Zhongshan Square and the nearby town of Lushun.

At the mouth of the Yangtze River, this seaport is a vigorous modern metropolis with a rich Chinese heritage. Your trip to Shanghai is not complete without marvelling at the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and browsing the 600 shops of Nanjing Road. Then, be sure to stroll the ancient Yuyuan Garden, see the Jade Buddha Temple and enjoy the lively music and grand architecture of the Bund.

At the mouth of the Yangtze River, this seaport is a vigorous modern metropolis with a rich Chinese heritage. Your trip to Shanghai is not complete without marvelling at the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and browsing the 600 shops of Nanjing Road. Then, be sure to stroll the ancient Yuyuan Garden, see the Jade Buddha Temple and enjoy the lively music and grand architecture of the Bund.

At the mouth of the Yangtze River, this seaport is a vigorous modern metropolis with a rich Chinese heritage. Your trip to Shanghai is not complete without marvelling at the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and browsing the 600 shops of Nanjing Road. Then, be sure to stroll the ancient Yuyuan Garden, see the Jade Buddha Temple and enjoy the lively music and grand architecture of the Bund.

This island off Okinawa isn’t typically what comes to mind when you think of Japan. Lush rainforests, mangrove-draped rivers, white sand beaches, and coral reefs will have you feeling like you’ve stepped off the ship into a tropical paradise during your cruise to Japan with Azamara®. With influences from Japanese, Taiwanese, Chinese, and American culture, the architecture, food, and way of life on Ishigaki are incredibly unique—from samurai-style homes, to Chinese-inspired monuments, to laid-back beach vibes.

Enjoy the contrasts of Taipei, located just 18 miles from the port of Keelung: lively clubs and ancient temples; skyscrapers and small street markets; bustling streets and peaceful gardens. As expected for a city surrounded by ocean, the seafood is spectacular. Visit the National Palace Museum to view the worlds largest collection of Chinese art treasures. And for an unsurpassed view of this city, visit a mountainside tea house.

Neon signs galore, dim sum, and amazing temples are a few of the favorite experiences in Hong Kong. Take is as much as you can of this thrilling city with its endless shopping and towering skyscrapers. Your agenda for Hong Kong should include Victoria Peak, an Aberdeen Fishing Village, the Man Mo Temple and Sheung Wan Dried Food and Herbal Market. Be certain to have extra room in your suitcase for the bargains you are bound to discover.

Neon signs galore, dim sum, and amazing temples are a few of the favorite experiences in Hong Kong. Take is as much as you can of this thrilling city with its endless shopping and towering skyscrapers. Your agenda for Hong Kong should include Victoria Peak, an Aberdeen Fishing Village, the Man Mo Temple and Sheung Wan Dried Food and Herbal Market. Be certain to have extra room in your suitcase for the bargains you are bound to discover.

When you visit Hanoi, you may get the feeling you’re in two different eras at the same time. No, there’s no secret portal for time travel here, it’s just the fascinating juxtaposition of old and new, history and progress that characterizes this friendly city. In the Old Quarter thousands of the buildings are over 100 years old and the streets are named after the wares that were traditionally sold on them such as Hang Bac (silver), Hang Ma (paper), and Hang Go (wood). But there’s no need to play rock, paper, scissors to choose where to explore, any direction will result in incredible sights and friendly locals.

When you visit Hanoi, you may get the feeling you’re in two different eras at the same time. No, there’s no secret portal for time travel here, it’s just the fascinating juxtaposition of old and new, history and progress that characterizes this friendly city. In the Old Quarter thousands of the buildings are over 100 years old and the streets are named after the wares that were traditionally sold on them such as Hang Bac (silver), Hang Ma (paper), and Hang Go (wood). But there’s no need to play rock, paper, scissors to choose where to explore, any direction will result in incredible sights and friendly locals.

The Nguyen Dynasty founded this former capital in the 17th century on the banks of the Perfume River. Today it sits as a massive open-air museum of temples, pagodas, palaces and tombs. Explore the Imperial Citadel, then take a river cruise for a view of the Tombs of the Emperors and Thien Mu Pagoda.

Located on the edge of the Mekong Delta, this dynamic metropolis also features the ageless beauty of an ancient culture. French colonial architecture mixes with modern and Asian influences, providing a diverse backdrop for the many motorbikes, scooters, pagodas and street markets. Stroll the wide boulevards of this city, formerly known as Saigon, and visit The History Museum, which houses artifacts from two thousand years of Vietnamese history.

Located on the edge of the Mekong Delta, this dynamic metropolis also features the ageless beauty of an ancient culture. French colonial architecture mixes with modern and Asian influences, providing a diverse backdrop for the many motorbikes, scooters, pagodas and street markets. Stroll the wide boulevards of this city, formerly known as Saigon, and visit The History Museum, which houses artifacts from two thousand years of Vietnamese history.

Laem Chabang is a port city municipality in Si Racha and Bang Lamung districts Chonburi Province, Thailand. It includes Thung Sukhla subdistrict and parts of subdistricts Bueng, Nong Kham and Surasak of Si Racha District and part of Bang Lamung township of Bang Lamung District all of Chonburi province.

Laem Chabang is a port city municipality in Si Racha and Bang Lamung districts Chonburi Province, Thailand. It includes Thung Sukhla subdistrict and parts of subdistricts Bueng, Nong Kham and Surasak of Si Racha District and part of Bang Lamung township of Bang Lamung District all of Chonburi province.

This small tropical paradise, lined with coconut palms and white sand beaches and encircled by turquoise water is a perfect place to escape and explore. Gaze up at the Big Buddha, cool off in the natural pool at the base of Na Muang Waterfall and view the astonishing natural rock formations of Hin Ta and Hin Yai.

Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions meld in this island-state at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. The site of the worlds busiest port, Singapore offers the Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour mall and Sunte, the worlds largest fountain. Play evening golf on lighted fairways; experience the nightlife on Mohamed Sultan Road; or relax at an outdoor spa. Be certain not to miss the savory seafood.

Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions meld in this island-state at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. The site of the worlds busiest port, Singapore offers the Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour mall and Sunte, the worlds largest fountain. Play evening golf on lighted fairways; experience the nightlife on Mohamed Sultan Road; or relax at an outdoor spa. Be certain not to miss the savory seafood.

Chinese, Malay and Indian traditions meld in this island-state at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. The site of the worlds busiest port, Singapore offers the Mustafa Centre, a 24-hour mall and Sunte, the worlds largest fountain. Play evening golf on lighted fairways; experience the nightlife on Mohamed Sultan Road; or relax at an outdoor spa. Be certain not to miss the savory seafood.

This commercial port, busily exporting the island’s most important products (including of course the beans for your next cup of java), is your gateway to two amazing religious sites. Borobudur is the largest Buddhist monument in the world – a 3D mandala (diagram of the universe), and perhaps a gigantic textbook to guide mortals striving to attain enlightenment. Prambanan is a complex of lofty, sharply sculpted towers honoring the Hindu triumvirate of Brahma the creator, Vishnu the preserver, and Shiva the destroyer. Both religions traveled this way with Indian traders in the early centuries AD.

The city of Surabaya has some fascinating places here to explore. The Arab quarter is like a Middle Eastern medina – a warren of narrow lanes with stalls selling prayer beads next to perfume next to dates. Keep following the lanes to the Masjid Ampel, a historic mosque built in 1421.

Celukan Bawang, Bali, Indonesia. In this important port, you may see numbers of the famous high-prowed Bugis schooners, the traditional trading vessels of the archipelago. They carry timber, cement and other goods

Bali is enchanting – a lush, verdant isle where rice terraces color every available acre with the brilliant green of young shoots, and volcanic peaks said to house the gods tower above. It is a deeply spiritual place, where artful offerings of flowers and incense are ever present, and on any given day at least one of the thousands of temples scattered around the island will be hosting a colorful festival. Culturally rich, each village has its own artistic specialty – music, dance, painting, and sculpture. The beaches are tempting, but if you want the real Bali, head for the hills – the Balinese occupy that middle ground, and demons reside in the sea.

As the capital of Australia’s vast and sparsely populated Northern Territory, Darwin has grown from a gateway to South East Asia to one of the country’s most modern and tropical cities. With folks from more than 50 countries calling this pleasant burg home, Darin has a multiculturalism unmatched by many other places. A trip to Darwin is a walk in the park—literally. George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, Knuckey Lagoons Conservation Reserve, Charles Darwin National Park, Bicentennial Park, and Jingili Water Gardens are just a few of the parks found within city limits. Plus, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park—an incredible combination of lush rainforests, wetlands, wildlife, and a treasure trove of Aboriginal rock art—is just a short jaunt away.

Cairns is the gateway to many of northern Australia’s natural attractions. Suit up and head offshore to explore the incredible world beneath the waves at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Great Barrier Reef. Filled with incredible beaches, coral reefs, and turquoise blue waters, you can swim, snorkel, dive, and enjoy a living masterpiece that is so big it can be seen from outer space.

Cairns is the gateway to many of northern Australia’s natural attractions. Suit up and head offshore to explore the incredible world beneath the waves at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Great Barrier Reef. Filled with incredible beaches, coral reefs, and turquoise blue waters, you can swim, snorkel, dive, and enjoy a living masterpiece that is so big it can be seen from outer space.

This sunny port on Australia’s northeast coast is in a perpetual state of vacation, and with the Great Barrier Reef on its doorstep, it’s easy to see why. Small in size but with a beachy, cosmopolitan vibe, Airlie Beach offers excellent shopping, dining, and nightlife, plus a long list of outdoor activities that range from sunbathing to soaring in a seaplane

Nestled in the heart of the dreamily named Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba is a former sleepy surf town that has recently become a popular beach destination. In fact, it was even featured on the popular reality TV series The Amazing Race. Mooloolaba Beach is one of the most famous and popular beaches on Australia’s east coast, so no visit would be complete without a trip to bury your toes in the powdery-white sand. Take to the water in a cruise on the canals, snorkeling in the sea, or diving with sharks. Head inland to swim in one of the secluded waterfalls in the area, and take in the tranquility that surrounds you.

Head Down Under to the state capital of New South Wales and the most populous city in Australia, the one and only Sydney. With a sunny attitude and a climate to match, Sydney is a vibrant place that combines the best of the beach, with the convenience of the city. Your first stop should be the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Sydney Opera House. Snap a picture of this iconic building that is a prominent feature of Sydney’s famous skyline for the folks back home. Get out and explore the streets to shop, dine, and view spectacular architecture and heritage buildings including Parliament House, Sydney Town Hall, and the Australian Museum.

Head Down Under to the state capital of New South Wales and the most populous city in Australia, the one and only Sydney. With a sunny attitude and a climate to match, Sydney is a vibrant place that combines the best of the beach, with the convenience of the city. Your first stop should be the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Sydney Opera House. Snap a picture of this iconic building that is a prominent feature of Sydney’s famous skyline for the folks back home. Get out and explore the streets to shop, dine, and view spectacular architecture and heritage buildings including Parliament House, Sydney Town Hall, and the Australian Museum.

If you’re chasing paradise along the shores of the Sapphire Coast, you’ll find it in Eden. Set on the breathtaking Twofold Bay, Eden’s laid-back atmosphere, charming locals, and stunning natural surroundings make it a destination you’ll never want to leave. Start by making your way to the Eden Lookout, where the best views of Twofold Bay are found. In the distance, marvel at the vast hinterland, as well as Boyd’s Tower—an elaborate structure crafted from sandstone that was once used as a lookout for whale spotting.

The first thing you notice when you step ashore in Hobart, Tasmania is the crystal clear fresh air. And with the abundance of national parks, forests, lakes, beaches, waterfalls, and mountains found in this tiny island state, it’s easy to see why. The capital and most populous city in Tasmania, Hobart is filled with old world charm. Stroll along the historic waterfront—famous for its Georgian architecture—and take in the sights. Make your way to Salamanca Place filled with rows of sandstone buildings. Be sure to check out the market, if you happen to arrive on a Saturday. The buildings are filled with bars and restaurants, shops and boutiques, and galleries and craft shops—the perfect place to pick up a souvenir for your friends and family back home handmade by one of Hobart’s many local artisans.

Located on New Zealand’s South Island, Dunedin is sure to be a pleasant chapter in your voyage. Known both as a City of Literature, and the Edinburgh of the South, it’s no surprise that there’s a statue of Robbie Burns in the heart of town. Though a Scottish influence can be felt throughout town, Dunedin is still distinctly Kiwi.

“Ōtautahi.” “The Garden City.” “The Most English City Outside England.” Christchurch may go by many names, but one thing is for certain: There’s so much to see and do in this lovely, energetic city, you’re going to have to plan strategically. First, how would you like to explore Christchurch? You can go punting through the city center on the Avon River. Hop on a tram, double-decker bus, or a bike to take advantage of the excellent cycleways and paths. Or head to the Christchurch Gondola for spectacular 360° views of the city, Canterbury Plains, Southern Alps, and Banks Peninsula.

A seaside town situated close to the head of Queen Charlotte Sound on the South Island, Picton is a great jumping off point for exploring the Marlborough Sounds. Like most of New Zealand, this area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Choose your own adventure and go fishing, swimming, bird watching, or visit the playful fur seal pups at their colony near the waterfall at Ohau Point. Bring your walking shoes and walk to the Snout—located between Picton and Waikawa Bay, this peninsula is still wild and untamed. There are tracks and trails for all abilities, from a few minutes-long stroll, so a full-scale hiking adventure.

Often referred to as “the coolest little capital in the world”, Wellington sits on the southwestern tip of New Zealand’s North Island. For such a small city, Wellington—or Windy Welly as it’s affectionately known—packs a huge reputation. With its fantastic nightlife and renowned entertainment district of Courtenay Place as well as an internationally recognized coffee culture, the city is both cosmopolitan and relaxed.

Located on the east coast of the North Island, Napier is a popular tourist town, and together with inland Hastings, are known as “the Bay Cities of New Zealand”. After Napier was destroyed by a devastating earthquake in 1931, the city rebuilt in spectacular Art Deco style that Mr. Gatsby himself would approve of. Take a stroll through the streets and you’d swear you can hear the clink of glasses and the faint notes of jazz music in the air.

Perched on the East Coast of the North Island of New Zealand, Gisborne is a place of rich history, beautiful uncrowded beaches, and legendary wines. You might also say it’s a city of firsts. It is where the first Māori migratory canoes landed, where British explorer Captain James Cook first came ashore on Kaiti Beach in 1769, and, since it’s also the most easterly point in the world, it is the first city in the world to see the sun rise each day.

Situated in the heart of the sunniest region of the North Island, Tauranga is a popular seaside getaway for locals and visitors alike. Initially settled by the Māori in the 13th century, the Bay of Plenty area has an abundance of things to see and do.

The only city in the world built on an active basaltic volcanic field, Auckland is located on the North Island of New Zealand. With a warm, costal climate, you can surf at black-sand beaches, enjoy picnics in secluded coves, or go horseback riding nearly year round. Dominating the CBD—that’s the central business district, or simply downtown—is the Sky Tower. At 1,076 feet tall it’s the tallest building in the Southern Hemisphere. Take a trip to the top and enjoy a meal and a panoramic view of the city below, including the busy harbor that lends Auckland the nickname “The City of Sails”.