At the base of the rugged, dramatic mountains of Rarotonga lies Avarua, a modest capital boasting a number of bustling outdoor markets, several restaurants and bars, boutiques and the National Museum of the Cook Islands. Along the Main Street you will find fine handicrafts and perfumes, as well as the black pearls for which the area is known. Although conditions are rarely reliable for swimming, there are dive sites in the area, including the famous Wreck of the Matai.

Perhaps the most spectacular feature of the village of Tikikaveka is the Cook Islands Christian Church, built entirely from hand-cut coral bricks. Of course, the rest of the island comes pretty close. Titikaveka Lagoon is a bright spot for snorkeling, and Titikaveka Beach is famous as a gem of the South Pacific. Smooch under the shade of a gently swaying palm tree while you relax into the romantic natural embrace of this gorgeous island.

Most famous for hosting the annual New Year's Tournament of Roses Parade and Rose Bowl, Pasadena is more than just a football town. Its extravagant City Hall boasts a beautiful Baroque dome, a courtyard garden and relaxing fountain. On South Orange Boulevard, known as Millionaires' Row, there are landmarked mansions to rival the most opulent homes of Beverly Hills. That chattering in the air is probably the local population of naturalized Red-crowned Amazon parrots.