Los Angeles to Dubai

Spectacular natural surroundings combined with the vitality of a creative and artistic community make Los Angeles one-of-a-kind. Sunshine, majestic palm trees and the sandy beaches of the Pacific share the spotlight with L.A.’s glamorous movie industry and its world-famous celebrities. Formally founded in 1781, it is now one of the world’s largest metropolitan centers.

Kauai is better known by its well-deserved nickname, the “Garden Island.” Fewer people live here than on the larger neighboring islands, but Hawaiian residents and out-of-state visitors alike are attracted to its much-acclaimed beaches. Rugged emerald-colored cliffs set the backdrop for cascading waterfalls and magnificent sandy shores. As one of the most enticing spots on earth, secluded coves are found all along the island’s irregular coastline and a luxuriant rainforest flourishes on the “wet” side of the island. With the island’s central mountain receiving an average of 500 inches of rainfall a year, Kauai is one of the wettest spots on earth. Kauai is also the oldest Hawaiian island both geologically and historically. Island lore claims Kauai was the original home of Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes, before she moved southward. Welcome ashore as you explore and discover the beauty of this verdant natural wonderland.

Lush, rolling green hills, exquisite black and white sand beaches, stoic stone tikis and dramatic waterfalls inspired Herman Melville’s “Typee” and they remain virtually unchanged today.

Lush, rolling green hills, exquisite black and white sand beaches, stoic stone tikis and dramatic waterfalls inspired Herman Melville’s “Typee” and they remain virtually unchanged today.

The second largest atoll in the world, beautiful Rangiroa is a renowned dive destination with turquoise waters and a fascinating world of colorful fish who fearlessly swim next to their human visitors. On land, working pearl farms, quiet villages and secluded resorts entice guests to become a part of a culture that values neighborly friendliness and relaxation.

Escape into the marvels of this island paradise. Bora Bora has been called the most beautiful island in the world with its tranquil lagoons, sugar-white beaches and exotic flora and fauna.

Experience why ancient Polynesians chose Mo’orea as their island of pleasure. This exquisite island is home to groves of pineapples, vanilla, coffee, and pristine beaches. Off into the distance, marvel at the lush mountain peaks surrounded by crystalline waters.

Awaken your senses in the vibrantly alive capital of French Polynesia. Stroll along the wide waterfront-boulevard and marvel and the gorgeous waters and perfect beaches. Tahitian locals and shopkeepers welcome you as you explore the carefree spirit of their island.

Awaken your senses in the vibrantly alive capital of French Polynesia. Stroll along the wide waterfront-boulevard and marvel and the gorgeous waters and perfect beaches. Tahitian locals and shopkeepers welcome you as you explore the carefree spirit of their island.

Awaken your senses in the vibrantly alive capital of French Polynesia. Stroll along the wide waterfront-boulevard and marvel and the gorgeous waters and perfect beaches. Tahitian locals and shopkeepers welcome you as you explore the carefree spirit of their island.

Delight in richly covered in mountains that soar more than 2,000 feet above clear-blue seas, coral reefs, and nearly untouched lagoons. Warm smiles greet you all around the island as you experience different ways to immerse in the traditional hospitality and culture of Rarotonga

Tonga is a member of the Commonwealth, and it shows in Nuku’Alofa, the capital, with its Victorian Royal Palace, impressive chapel, and Royal Tombs of the local monarchs. Yet Tonga teems with South Sea beauty as well, including exotic Talamahu Market, wave-swept coastal cliffs, and idyllic Fafa Island.

To the east of the International Date Line lie the islands of Fiji, where smiling people bid you “bula,” or welcome, to their unspoiled homeland. The bustling port town of Lautoka lies cradled on the western shores of Viti Levu, with marketplaces filled with shell jewelry, wood carvings, woven mats, basketry and masi, and exquisite Indian saris. Not far from the pier are endless fields of lush sugar cane, traditional villages and an orchid wonderland.

Port Vila is the harborside capital and main hub of Vanuatu, on Efate island. Its small downtown is home to colorful market stalls selling produce and local handicrafts. The National Museum of Vanuatu, inside the Vanuatu Cultural Centre, displays artifacts such as slit-gong drums and outrigger canoes. The town is a base for diving and trips to Mele Cascades, a multi-tiered waterfall with rock pools in a rainforest.

Having served as the South Pacific headquarters for the U.S. military during World War II, the main island of New Caledonia, called Grande Terre, has played a prominent role on the world stage. These days, the island’s sunny weather and natural beauty have taken the spotlight. Noumea has a distinctly French flair with fine restaurants and designer boutiques. Off shore are the vast barrier reefs and the largest lagoon complex in the world.

Having served as the South Pacific headquarters for the U.S. military during World War II, the main island of New Caledonia, called Grande Terre, has played a prominent role on the world stage. These days, the island’s sunny weather and natural beauty have taken the spotlight. Noumea has a distinctly French flair with fine restaurants and designer boutiques. Off shore are the vast barrier reefs and the largest lagoon complex in the world.

Trace the history of New Zealand on the gorgeous island of Waitangi. Along with its vibrant past, find spectacular coastlines, abundant forests, and a world of natural wonders.

Situated astride a narrow, jade-green isthmus between the shimmering waters of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean on two harbors, the Waitematā and Manukau, is Auckland. This vibrant city is a gateway to New Zealand’s natural and cultural treasures: great natural beauty, friendly people, magnificent glacier-studded mountain ranges, sculpted fjords, pristine beaches, lush rainforest, an endless array of sporting activities, and, not to be forgotten, plenty of sheep and rolling farmland.

Situated astride a narrow, jade-green isthmus between the shimmering waters of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean on two harbors, the Waitematā and Manukau, is Auckland. This vibrant city is a gateway to New Zealand’s natural and cultural treasures: great natural beauty, friendly people, magnificent glacier-studded mountain ranges, sculpted fjords, pristine beaches, lush rainforest, an endless array of sporting activities, and, not to be forgotten, plenty of sheep and rolling farmland.

The spectacular Bay of Plenty on New Zealand’s North Island is home to the resort town of Tauranga. Known for its fine restaurants, boutiques and galleries, the city is also a hot spot for water sports and a gateway to nearby attractions, such as the geothermal wonders of Rotorua. At the southern end of Tauranga’s harbor lies the relaxed beach town of Mount Maunganui, named after its distinctive peak, Mauao, which towers 750 feet above the town’s white-sand surf.

The historic port of Lyttelton serves as the gateway to Christchurch, the largest city on New Zealand’s South Island. Traditionally considered the most English of New Zealand’s cities, there is much to explore in vibrant Christchurch, from its neo-Gothic stone buildings and beautiful botanical gardens, to its picturesque Avon River lined by graceful willows. Further afar, the Canterbury Plains, snow-capped Southern Alps and numerous rivers beckon with their enchanting beauty and wildlife.

Melbourne is the capital city of Victoria – and a global capital of trend-setting cool. Dynamic, sporty and arty, it still maintains an air of old-world grace with spacious tree-lined boulevards and expansive parks. The prosperous lifestyle of its people is both cosmopolitan and sophisticated. The heritage of more than 100 different cultures has contributed to Melbourne’s richly international character – exemplified by its range of 15,000 dining venues offering more than 50 different kinds of cuisine.

Sydney is an energetic and exciting metropolis where nightlife, shopping and fine restaurants compare favorably with the finest the world has to offer. Despite its modern advances, Sydney has lovingly cherished its heritage, for this was the birthplace of the Australian nation, defined by the billowing profile of the Opera House and the dramatic arch of the Harbour Bridge.

Nestled between the Gold Coast to the south and the Sunshine Coast to the north, laid-back Brisbane makes the most of its magnificent beaches, offering an ideal blend of Aussie ease and urban energy. Wander the lush Botanic Gardens, shop the Queen Street Mall, or enjoy the countless cafés along the banks of the Brisbane River.

Bordering the Whitsunday Passage where famed British explorer James Cook sailed in 1770, today this thriving resort town is a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the Whitsunday isles. A relaxed, tropical vibe fills its palm-fringed lagoon, beachfront parks, and assorted shops, restaurants and cafés. Situated nearby is Conway National Park, home to a lush, tropical rainforest and pristine waterfalls.

Welcome to Cairns [cans], where the weather and hospitality are warm. Tropical Cairns is Queenland’s most northerly city, and is framed by two features of such pristine beauty and incomparable value that they have been listed by the World Heritage Society. Located at the point where the Great Dividing Range and Great Barrier Reef curve gently to the shoreline, Cairns is graced with inspiring natural attractions in all directions. Beyond the coast are mountains, rainforests, eucalyptus, waterfalls, lakes, rugged ravines and grazing farmlands fed by freshwater streams. Above all, two of the most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. Cairns, the colorful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, is alive with life and charm. At hand and beckoning for your discovery are elegant boutiques, markets, art galleries and museums.

Welcome to Cairns [cans], where the weather and hospitality are warm. Tropical Cairns is Queenland’s most northerly city, and is framed by two features of such pristine beauty and incomparable value that they have been listed by the World Heritage Society. Located at the point where the Great Dividing Range and Great Barrier Reef curve gently to the shoreline, Cairns is graced with inspiring natural attractions in all directions. Beyond the coast are mountains, rainforests, eucalyptus, waterfalls, lakes, rugged ravines and grazing farmlands fed by freshwater streams. Above all, two of the most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. Cairns, the colorful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, is alive with life and charm. At hand and beckoning for your discovery are elegant boutiques, markets, art galleries and museums.

One of more than 100 Torres Strait Islands, Thursday Island, aka Waiben, sits at the northern tip of Queensland off the Cape York Peninsula, home to 4,000 residents. The vibe here is decidedly tropical paradise, while the island’s history holds some serious high points, as T.I. (as it’s affectionately known by locals) served as Australia’s defense center during World War II. Wartime remnants remain for visitors to explore, and the colorful reefs beyond the shoreline call to adventurers.

Australia’s northernmost city lies between the sun-bleached Outback and the Arafura Sea on Australia’s “Top End,” as tropical northern Australia is familiarly called. Chic yet casual, the Northern Territory capital has grown into a modern, mellow mini-metropolis, with a comfortable tropical climate and some of Australia’s most fascinating natural highlights – the abundant wildlife and many waterfalls of Litchfield National Park, and beautiful Adelaide River and its famed jumping crocodiles.

Many of Komodo Island’s residents are descendants of convicts, who like the early inhabitants of Australia, were sent to the island to live in exile. And, like Australia, Komodo Island has a population of strange and wondrous wildlife, the most renowned of which is the Komodo dragon. The world’s largest lizard, this ferocious predator enjoys full protection on the island. Both Komodo Island and nearby Rinca Island are part of a national park system that allows the dragon to sunbathe on the river banks and amble past curious visitors without fear of being harmed. Actually, it is the human that should be wary: in spite of their clumsy stride and apparent nonchalance, the Komodo dragon can run as fast as a dog and is capable of killing and eating a human being. But visitors to the island need not worry. Calm and capable park service guides are on hand to escort onlookers to a kind of reverse zoo, where the people gather in a protective enclosure while the dragons patrol the area, making themselves available for safe observation.

Bali is so beautiful that the natives believe heaven will be just like home, and touring this island paradise, it’s easy to see why. Here are mysterious volcanic lakes and jungle-shrouded volcanoes, wondrous ancient temples, fabulously creative painters and wood-carvers, and the legendary dancers who re-enact the stories of their Hindu deities.

Bali is so beautiful that the natives believe heaven will be just like home, and touring this island paradise, it’s easy to see why. Here are mysterious volcanic lakes and jungle-shrouded volcanoes, wondrous ancient temples, fabulously creative painters and wood-carvers, and the legendary dancers who re-enact the stories of their Hindu deities.

The sights and sounds of wildlife that can be found virtually nowhere else in the world permeate the air and every adventure in this lush forested region. Orphaned orangutans thrive in the treetops of the rehabilitation center, long-nosed proboscis monkeys perch in the jungles, and elephants meander along the Kinabatangan River, Malaysia’s second-longest waterway. Also look for the Bornean sun bear and birds that comprise the entire rainbow as you explore these wild wetlands.

Enter the subterranean world of Puerto Princesa’s Underground River – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders located in the Philippines – surrounded by ethereal rock formations and lush forest where monkeys and monitors casually greet guests. The Palawan capital is also a bustling gateway to El Nido and the breathtaking Bacuit Archipelago, surrounded by limestone cliffs and soaked in sunshine.

Lush and green, surrounded by impossibly blue waters ranging from turquoise to a deep azure, this tiny island is big on water play. From moment to moment, Boracay gives you an array of options: swim in the coral protected lagoon, try windsurfing or kiteboarding, snorkel the quiet cove of Baling Hai Beach or go shopping the bustling White Beach.

Set amid the forest-green splendor of Luzon Island is bustling Manila, the second largest city in Southeast Asia, with its towering skyscrapers and remarkable joie de vivre. Yet amid the big-city excitement are oases of calm: lush tropical parks, magnificent cathedrals and dramatic Spanish forts. North of the city, mountains beckon with their spectacular rice terraces, while across Manila Bay stands Mount Mariveles, a dormant volcano studded with scenic hiking trails.

Set amid the forest-green splendor of Luzon Island is bustling Manila, the second largest city in Southeast Asia, with its towering skyscrapers and remarkable joie de vivre. Yet amid the big-city excitement are oases of calm: lush tropical parks, magnificent cathedrals and dramatic Spanish forts. North of the city, mountains beckon with their spectacular rice terraces, while across Manila Bay stands Mount Mariveles, a dormant volcano studded with scenic hiking trails.

Although Hong Kong has returned to its original Chinese roots, it still remains a cosmopolitan city with influences, languages and accents from around the world. Here East meets West and the result is electric. Soaring skyscrapers rise from the hills and harbor, blending geography and nature with commercial concrete, steel and pulsating neon in a way that brings traditional Chinese culture and Western-style commerce into perfect harmony.

Although Hong Kong has returned to its original Chinese roots, it still remains a cosmopolitan city with influences, languages and accents from around the world. Here East meets West and the result is electric. Soaring skyscrapers rise from the hills and harbor, blending geography and nature with commercial concrete, steel and pulsating neon in a way that brings traditional Chinese culture and Western-style commerce into perfect harmony.

“In Singapore, at Saigon, one exists; at Hanoi, one lives.”-Joleaud-Barral, French geographer. One of the great natural wonders of Asia, the natural beauty of Ha Long Bay, or the “Bay of the Descending Dragon,” is outstanding. Speckled with over 3,000 karst mountains bursting from the calm water, is Ha Long Bay. Local myths hold that when the forefathers of the land were fighting foreign invaders from the north, the gods from heaven sent a family of dragons to help defend their land. The dragons descended upon what is now Ha Long Bay and began spitting out jewels and jade, which turned into islands and islets upon hitting the sea. The islands functioned as natural barriers against the invaders and the local people survived and vowed eternal honor to the dragon’s mercy. Not only is Ha Long Bay’s landscape spectacular, but Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi, is easily within reach. Hanoi lies in sometimes stark contrast with its southern sister city. While in Saigon, one sees Vietnam’s future; in Hanoi, one sees its past. In a city with a population of 2.6 million people and approximately 2 million motorbikes, the downtown intersections represent a free-for-all between pedestrians and cyclists. Surprisingly, Hanoians aren’t rushed and scrambling as are the Saigonese. Instead, they stroll and linger, converse and reflect. Old-fashioned in style, Hanoi is a city of lakes and parks, tree-lined, bicycle-filled boulevards, elegant colonial mansions and villas, all of which testify of its French legacy. Venturing into the city is a must and will provide you with a microcosm of Vietnamese culture and a truly memorable experience.

Beyond the majestic Marble Mountains, caves and pagoda of Da Nang itself, this fascinating city also leads you to the UNESCO-listed imperial city of Hue and its Royal Citadel near the Perfume River. The city’s bamboo-framed houses, water buffalo-powered produce carts and busy rice fields portray an ongoing spirit of tradition.

Ho Chi Minh City, known universally and affectionately by residents as Saigon, offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s eventful past and its hopeful future. The city has a prosperous air of thriving activity, as rice boats float down the waterways and streets bustle with flavorful markets. Explore the sacred temples, French colonial buildings and vestiges of pivotal events.

Ho Chi Minh City, known universally and affectionately by residents as Saigon, offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s eventful past and its hopeful future. The city has a prosperous air of thriving activity, as rice boats float down the waterways and streets bustle with flavorful markets. Explore the sacred temples, French colonial buildings and vestiges of pivotal events.

Afascinating city devoted to tradition and driven toward modernity, Bangkok has long been a traveler’s paradise with its heavenly weather, welcoming hospitality and mouth-watering cuisine – the vibrant city is world-renowned for its street food and impressive roster of Michelin-starred restaurants. Home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the ornate Grand Palace and the soaring Wat Arun temple, it’s also an hour away from Ayutthaya, the 14th-century ruins of the Kingdom of Siam.

This emerald isle off Thailand’s southeast coast, ringed by lovely beaches and gorgeous bays, enjoys both the fun-loving nature of the Thai people, and the peaceful serenity of Buddhism. Visit the beautiful waterfalls at Hin Lut and Na Muang, marvel at the enormous Buddha statue on Fan Isle, or just listen to the breeze whisper in the leaves of a coconut plantation.

Singapore blends the contemporary splendor of a sparkling modern city with influences from throughout the Orient. Its history is one of riches and romance, spice trading and piracy, colonialism and growth. This island state has grown from a small fishing village to one of Asia’s greatest success stories. Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of the varied collection of migrations that have graced its history. Discover the mansions and polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown and the heady aroma of spices and curry along Arab Street. You will quickly come to understand why Singapore is acclaimed as the “Crossroads of the East.”

Singapore blends the contemporary splendor of a sparkling modern city with influences from throughout the Orient. Its history is one of riches and romance, spice trading and piracy, colonialism and growth. This island state has grown from a small fishing village to one of Asia’s greatest success stories. Temples, mosques and churches stand as serene reminders of the varied collection of migrations that have graced its history. Discover the mansions and polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown and the heady aroma of spices and curry along Arab Street. You will quickly come to understand why Singapore is acclaimed as the “Crossroads of the East.”

Bustling Port Kelang is the principal port of entry for Malaysia. The country’s capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a surprisingly modern city of domes, minarets and spacious, tree-lined avenues. Her symbols of faith are visible at the Jamek Mosque, the city’s birthplace.

Located on the ancient spice routes, Penang is a compelling blend of Old World Asia, Sumatra, India and influences of its various European settlers over the centuries. It has been a historical link between Europe and the Middle East, and its modern identity remains a kaleidoscope of cultures. Lively markets offer adventures for the palate, its emerging art scene adds intrigue to urban jungle, and Penang Bridge and Penang Hill afford sweeping vistas.

Residents call Phuket “The Pearl of the South,” and one visit to this green, sun-soaked island in the Andaman Sea will show you why. The coast is a succession of magnificent beaches, the forested interior boasts virgin rain forests and numerous cacao, pineapple, and rubber plantations. The culture is a distinctive blend of Portuguese, Chinese and indigenous Chao Naam: a proud, seafaring people.

The Andaman Islands float like emeralds in the Bay of Bengal, with their lushly forested interiors wrapped in ribbons of golden beach. Port Blair on South Andaman Island is the archipelago’s capital, and home to the Anthropological Museum, showcasing the history of the island’s people, and the Cellular Jail, a colonial prison turned national memorial. Nearby attractions include Mount Harriet National Park, a bird watcher’s paradise, and Havelock Island, with its iconic Elephant Beach.

Hambantota is perhaps best known for its striking salt flats that run along the coast. Well-preserved colonial buildings and religious temples and shrines are all around, plus nearby Kataragama, a major pilgrimage site sacred to Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims. It is also a gateway to Yala National Park, home to crocodiles, leopards, elephants, sloth bears, peacocks and more.

Sri Lanka’s capital until recent times, this fascinating city is filled with an intriguing blend of cosmopolitan buildings and ancient temples. A key stop on the spice routes, Portuguese, Dutch, and British trading companies left behind churches, monuments and religions, as well as smatterings of their languages that have been incorporated into the speech and daily routine of the local Sri Lankans.

Spread over a series of islands interlaced by the Arabian Sea on India’s tropical Malabar Coast, Kochi (long known as Cochin) was once an important center on the ancient spice routes. Today, this uniquely cosmopolitan city reflects cultural and architectural influences of its past – Arabic, Dutch, Portuguese and British – and serves as a gateway to Kerala, home to the mountainous slopes of the Western Ghats, a region legendary for its teas, coffees, spices and wildlife.

Goa has the ability to revitalize the soul, whether one craves the energy of nightlife and zest for revelry, or the rejuvenating power of meditative yoga on an endless beach. It’s all here, from the dynamic bazaars buzzing with color and spices to the curious blend of Portuguese and Indian traditions and architecture – all celebrated with zeal and joy in Goa.

Formerly known as Bombay, this city of temples where Mahatma Gandhi once lived, is home to extraordinary UNESCO treasures including the Elephanta and Ellora Caves, Agra Fort, and the Red Fort Complex. Overland journeys may be arranged to the exquisite Taj Mahal and the 2019-inscribed Jaipur Rajasthan, known also as the Pink City and revered for its colonnaded City Palace complex with royal gardens and courtyards.

Formerly known as Bombay, this city of temples where Mahatma Gandhi once lived, is home to extraordinary UNESCO treasures including the Elephanta and Ellora Caves, Agra Fort, and the Red Fort Complex. Overland journeys may be arranged to the exquisite Taj Mahal and the 2019-inscribed Jaipur Rajasthan, known also as the Pink City and revered for its colonnaded City Palace complex with royal gardens and courtyards.

Home to the world’s biggest shopping mall, tallest skyscraper, and dozens of ultra-glamourous luxury hotels, Dubai is truly a modern wonder. After exploring the new sites of the city, find yourself amongst traditional winding souks and local charm.