The Hawaiian islands are easily the greatest island destination in the United States, with six spectacular Pacific islands from which to choose. The Big Island is best-known as the home of Kilauea, the world's most active volcano, and Mauna Kea, which is the world's tallest mountain when measured from the ocean floor. Other attractions include tropical rain forests, scuba diving, and black-, green- and red-sand beaches. Visit Molokai if you want a quiet vacation with little commercialization. Molokai has Hawaii's longest white-sand beaches and offers mule rides, fishing and kayaking among its activities. Maui is a diverse island where you can enjoy spectacular nightlife or secluded hikes in areas like Haleakala. Water activities like snorkeling and diving are popular; in the winter months, you can take a whale-watching tour to see humpback whales. On Oahu, guests can visit Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Pearl Harbor, the Polynesian Cultural Center or snorkel in Hanauma Bay. Kauai is the ideal destination if you want to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Hawaii. Finally, you may choose to visit Lanai, a luxurious getaway with two five-star resorts, fine dining, golf and spa services. Regardless of the island you choose, you are sure to be delighted by the friendly "aloha" spirit of the laid-back Hawaiian local population.
The Cyclades islands were once one island in the Aegean Sea until a massive volcanic eruption in 1600 B.C. caused the center of the island to collapse, creating five islands: the main island of Santorini, Thirasia and Aspronisi, and the two new volcanic islands, Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni. The islands are associated with the legend of the lost city of Atlantis because of this catastrophe. Oia is one of the most famous villages in Santorini, known for its beautiful sunsets and blue and white buildings that decorate the cliff side. The capital city of Fira is the main tourist center of Santorini and offers spectacular views of the Santorini caldera, the feature caused by the volcanic collapse of the island. Santorini is world-renowned for its red and black volcanic sand beaches. Red Beach features black and red volcanic pebbles and hot water, the shores of Perissa are lined with black sand, and Perivolos provides the longest stretch of black sand in Santorini. While in Santorini, be sure to visit the ancient city of Thera, take a donkey ride in Fira or take in the romantic sunset at Oia. If you're looking to add some romance to your visit, there is no greater way than by sharing a bottle of delicious Santorini wine while watching the sun set over the caldera.
New Zealand consists of two large main islands and several smaller surrounding islands. Its diverse geography includes mountains, plains, subtropical forests, volcanic plateau, glaciers, fjords and miles of coastline. The country straddles two tectonic plates, which makes for some interesting geothermal activity. Active areas like the town of Rotorua are popular attractions for mud pools, geysers and hot springs. You'll find miles of sandy beaches for swimming and surfing along the coast of the North Island; dark sand beaches line the island's west coast. The South Island has beaches in the north, but the rest of the coastline is rugged. Adventure-sports opportunities abound, including bungee jumping, hang gliding, snowboarding and black water rafting. You can take a whale-watching tour, in which you may see sperm whales, pilot whales, blue whales, humpback wales, dolphins, albatross or seals. Hiking enthusiasts may enjoy completing one or more of New Zealand's nine great walking trails, which offer spectacular views of scenery throughout both islands. It is also a popular destination because the locals, Kiwis, are a very friendly and hospitable people who are eager to give directions or suggest tourist destinations.
