Oceania
🏖️ Beaches 🏝️ Islands 🏞️ Nature
Oceania comprises the two big islands that make up New Zealand, the vast continent of Australia and the small island nations that belong to Micronesia, Melanesia and Polynesia. As well as being incredibly varied in nature, these South Pacific nations are known to be easy-going, relatively undeveloped and super friendly.
Australia immediately stands out because of its sheer size and fame. The image of the rugged “Land Down Under” with hopping kangaroos, cuddly koalas and jumping crocodiles is certainly true, but Australia is about much more. Artistic, wealthy and modern state capital cities such as Sydney and Melbourne are among the most liveable in the world.
Between the tropical north and the temperate south of Australia, there are lush forests, fertile farmlands, sun-kissed wine regions and vast desert plains to explore. The laid-back “Aussies” are always happy to chat.
Meanwhile, their neighbors in New Zealand, the “Kiwis," have mastered the art of inventing thrilling adventure sports that allow you to explore their stunning country from all possible angles. Soar above, delve into, jump down from or bounce along rugged cliffs, thermal landscapes, turquoise lakes, snowcapped peaks, lush forests and rolling hills to experience the best of the South Island. While less dramatic, the North Island looks every bit as mystical as pictured in The Lord of the Rings movies.
To fulfil your fantasy of relaxing on a far-flung South Pacific island, try the likes of Vanuatu, Fiji and New Caledonia. The friendly locals will make you feel right at home. Samoa, the Cook Islands and Tonga are up-and-coming destinations with equally lovely people and cultures. To get off the beaten track, visit tiny idyllic nations such as Kiribati and Tuvalu.
Fiji
With diverse natural attractions and rich local culture, this secluded and extraordinarily scenic archipelago truly offers something for every kind of traveler.
Guam
Experience this tropical island’s enchanting blend of native Chamorro, Spanish and American influences, with stunning beaches, great shopping and breathtaking views.
Australia
There’s no doubt about it: Australia is a diverse place, with beautiful beaches, unusual animals, more than 60 wine regions and fascinating cities. You can surf, admire city skylines, explore rainforests and dive in underwater wonderlands all on the same continent—all you have to do is decide where to go.
Sydney
New Zealand
Walk the ancient forests and glacier-carved mountains of this island nation and you’ll soon discover why movie directors and outdoors enthusiasts love "Aotearoa".
French Polynesia
Escape to a South Pacific island getaway to enjoy a laid back beach lifestyle and journey into rainforests and underwater searching for wildlife.
New Caledonia
Take a trip to this sparking archipelago and uncover a thriving cosmopolitan culture, beautiful scenery and a fascinating past.
Samoa
A rich cultural history, dazzling white-sand beaches and famous former residents make this Pacific island nation a fascinating vacation destination.
Vanuatu
Hike up an active volcano, swim with schools of tropical fish and build sandcastles at an oceanfront resort in this adventure-packed island nation.
Cook Islands
Discover hidden caves, learn about Polynesian culture and traditions and swim among schools of tropical fish in this Pacific island paradise.
Tonga
Glorious sunsets, hiking trails through rugged terrain and a friendly culture await in this gorgeous tropical paradise that moves at its own pace: island time.
Tuvalu
Explore the fourth-smallest country in the world when you swim and snorkel at pretty beaches and hop between the atolls of this island group in the South Pacific.
American Samoa
Explore rugged coastlines, hike past peaceful villages and shop for coconuts and local handicrafts in outdoor markets in this island region.
Niue
This tiny Pacific island nation has a welcoming culture, stunning landscapes and an abundance of flora and fauna, including humpback whales, dolphins and sea turtles.
Papua New Guinea
From islands to highlands, the four regions of this South Pacific nation offer exciting adventures and festivals celebrating diverse millennia-old cultures.
Solomon Islands
Swim in warm lagoons, hike along remote trails to World War II memorials and see fish-filled shipwrecks on the seabed in this enticing island nation.
Norfolk Island
Enjoy the relaxed lifestyle on this island in the South Pacific and discover stunning coastal views, fresh seafood and a warm community with an intriguing history.
Highlights
Abel Tasman National Park — great treks through forests, hills and beaches
Aitutaki — the classic picture postcard of a palm tree fringed tropical island with turquoise waters
Bay of Islands — pretty spot in New Zealand with historical significance
Bora Bora — the most beautiful lagoon of French Polynesia, but incredibly pricey
Coral Coast — amazing white sand beaches and palm trees
Great Barrier Reef — the largest coral formation in the world, great for diving
Moorea — budget alternative to Bora Bora with beautiful scenery
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park — iconic rock formations in the middle of the Outback
Vava'u — group of more than 50 islands in Tonga, a common destination for yachts
Countries
Australia — TBA
New Zealand — TBA
Cities
Apia — a little shabby and run down, but useful as an initial stop off point for first time visitors
Auckland — multicultural metropolis and largest conurbation in Polynesia that scores well in quality-of-life polls
Brisbane — capital of sun-drenched Queensland and gateway to beautiful sandy beaches
Christchurch — known as the Garden City, it is filled with trees and old-English buildings
Nouméa — features beautiful beaches and colonial mansions and is not (yet) a heavily-touristed destination
Papeete — not a tropical paradise, but has shopping, eating, drinking and is nice for people-watching
Port Moresby — spread out capital of Papua New Guinea, but can be very dangerous
Suva — the major commercial and political centre of Fiji, Nadi is the tourist capital
Melbourne — the largest and most cosmopolitan city of Australia, home to culture, fantastic shopping and the worlds most livable city.