If you long to explore New Zealand’s beautiful Bay of Islands, Paihia makes a wonderful base. Known as “the Jewel of the Bay Islands,” this seaside town has golden beaches, lovely coastal walking trails and waterfalls, and a colorful population of local birds. Paihia also holds an important role in the country’s history. It was here, after a century of conflict between indigenous Maori tribes and Western settlers, that peace was finally made and the groundbreaking Treaty of Waitangi was signed.

City slickers, culture vultures and beach bums alike fall in love with Sydney. Hang ten at famed Bondi Beach or stroll the calmer sands of Coogee.  Cash burning a hole in your pocket? You’ll find great shopping in the Rocks district and along George and Pitt Streets. Climb to the top of the Harbour Bridge or take a skywalk on Sydney Tower for a 360-degree view of the city. But whatever you do, don’t leave town without cuddling the koalas in the Taronga Park Zoo—they’re ridiculously adorable.

In this nation of tiny islands and indigenous villages, Port Vila is the exception: a bustling port town with hotels, restaurants and markets to delight visitors and cruise ship passengers. The 150-foot-high Mele Cascades waterfall is the ideal place to refresh yourself in the South Pacific heat. For a glimpse of real Vanuatu culture and traditions, travelers say a trip to Ekasup Village is a must.

One of the largest towns and most visitors’ first stop on Fiji, Nadi is a culturally diverse city of 30,000. Nadi Beach is a wide strand, perfect for lazing in the sun and watching sunsets. Nearby Natadola Beach is Fiji’s most spectacular and is popular for swimming and body surfing. Other paces to visit in Nadi include Sri Siva Subramaniya, the largest Hindu temple in the Southern hemisphere, the Sleeping Giant orchid gardens and Waqadra Botanical Gardens.

Home to ultra-cool vegan cafés, beach bars, and boutiques, Canggu is a hipster’s paradise. The black sand of Echo Beach contrasts starkly with turquoise Indian Ocean waters, which are invariably peppered with surfers enjoying some of Bali’s best waves.

The jewel of the Mariana Islands, Guam is a vivid tourist destination that offers peaceful white-sand beaches and fascinating dive sites. Entwine yourself with your paramour at Two Lovers Point or immerse yourself in local traditions at the Guam Beach and Culture Park. The caverns and coral reefs of the Piti Bomb Holes Reserve are the perfect places to get acquainted with native sea life. Dance off your day at one of Tumon’s lively dance clubs, or take in an exhilarating production at the SandCastle entertainment complex.