60 days in South Pacific & Europe Itinerary

Occupying the eastern half of New Guinea and its offshore islands, Papua New Guinea represents an immense cultural and biological diversity. Densely carpeted in lush rainforest, the largely mountainous interior includes several active volcanoes. Because of this rugged landscape, Papua New Guinea remains one of the planet's least explored areas, thought to harbor as-yet undiscovered species. Remote mountain ranges nurture unique plant and animal life found nowhere else in the world, while the wildly fluctuating topography creates large differences in climate that further diversify the ecosystems. The people of Papua New Guinea are equally varied and distinct, with hundreds of tribes and communities--the vast majority of which are rural--and approximately 850 different languages. Don't expect much of a tourism infrastructure in Papua New Guinea (or infrastructure of any kind), but do expect any challenges to be richly rewarded by a real adventure unlike any other, in an untamed wilderness, untouched by commercialization.

Build your Solomon Islands trip around the many enriching diving experiences available, or plan a relaxing break on a luxuriously sandy and peaceful beach. Witness the vibrant culture of the local people on an eco-friendly guided walk, shopping for locally made handicrafts, and sampling the local cuisine. Solomon Islands still bears the marks of a very different aspect of its history, when some of the most intense fighting in World War II happened here. Learn about this dark chapter through memorials, museums, artifacts, and relics, both on land and under the sea.

Composed of 83 rugged islands spread out over a stretch of nearly 1,300 km (810 mi), Vanuatu features a huge diversity of natural environments and cultures. A fusion of British, French, Polynesian, and Melanesian influences, the nation combines devout religious devotion with the slow, relaxed pace of island life. Lush rainforests and thriving coral sanctuaries abound across the island chain and feature a colorful array of native wildlife and plant species that make for fantastic snorkeling, diving, and hiking excursions. Active volcanoes remain among the biggest attractions in Vanuatu, along with the chain's stunning beaches and shimmering blue waters. Despite the nation's harsh volcanic landscapes, rocky coast, and lack of arable land, Vanuatu is a warm and welcoming place to visit, as its people do everything they can to make tourists feel right at home.

Located at the heart of the Central Pacific, Fiji is an archipelago of 333 islands and hundreds more tiny islets, many of which are uninhabited. The land masses range from vast Viti Levu, mountainous and covered in green jungle, to private desert islands available for rent. With bountiful sunshine, white sand beaches, tranquil oceans, and lush rainforest, it is no surprise that ecotourism in Fiji thrives. Local culture combines indigenous Fijian, Indo-Fijian, Asian, and European influences in a vibrant mix, with many of the smaller islands still retaining a strong element of traditional island life. Explore the countless pockets of paradise to find your favorite.

Spread out over 177 islands, Tonga features an incredible array of natural environments and places to visit. "Island time" remains omnipresent in Tonga, and visitors may find that locals are in little hurry in their day-to-day lives. While sightseeing in Tonga, head for the country's three main island groupings--Vava'u, Ha'apai, and Tongatapu--to enjoy a taste of their world-class snorkeling and diving opportunities. Reefs and forests burst with life and lush foliage, and lend themselves well to enjoying the great outdoors, while sun-kissed beaches and idyllic lagoons make for fantastic lazy days along the shore. Alternatively, take advantage of the country's prolific whale-watching industry--frequently ranked among the best on the planet.

Enchanting Samoa and its people boast a legendarily laid-back approach to life, and clocks and set times are merely a formality here. The society remains a proud one, deeply connected to a set of millennia-old traditions known as "Fa'a Samoa"--the Samoan Way. Spread out over two main islands and several smaller landmasses, Samoa is a land of incredible contrasts and natural beauty, home to rocky volcanic mountains and expansive beaches, rugged cliffs and lush rainforests. Visitors on holiday in Samoa can easily spend their time exploring the country's exotic interior and untamed coastal reaches, which offer plenty of wildlife and fantastic landscapes. Alternatively, they can just as readily kick back in sleepy seaside villages, indulging in a full-service resort, or splash around in lagoons and at beaches that hold their place among the world's best.

A group of tiny atolls and reef islands in the South Pacific, Tuvalu offers plenty of seaside appeal. Most visitors start and end their tour of Tuvalu on Fongfale, the main islet where you'll find the majority of accommodations and other tourist-oriented facilities. Beaches fringed by palms remain the main attractions on Tuvalu, with visitors coming to dive and snorkel the waters sheltering a variety of tropical fish and sea turtles. Others head for the uninhabited islets, which provide no amenities but plenty of chances to spot a range of sea birds.

You'll find a surprising number of vacation ideas in Kiribati, an island nation boasting a rich cultural and natural abundance. The 33 coral islands offer world-class fishing spots, marine and terrestrial reserves, and great places to try a range of water sports. Its refreshingly noncommercial and lively culture engages visitors with its colors, vibrancy, and welcoming character. Experience the local philosophy of subsistence in the villages, where delicious cuisine and traditional ceremonies take precedence. On a different note, history buffs will appreciate sites commemorating an infamous World War II battle that took place here. Head farther inland for an adventurer's holiday--exploring the forests, discovering a wealth of impressive natural features, and identifying the diversity of plant and animal life.

One of the world's smallest countries, Nauru represents an island heaven for those interested in doing little more than relaxing by the sea during their vacation. For those into active holidays, a trip to Nauru ensures plenty of chances to try fishing, scuba diving, and exploring the remnants of a phosphate mine. For history buffs looking to add some culture to their Nauru itinerary, reminders of Japanese occupation remain scattered around the tiny island.

A chain of coral atolls and volcanic islands, Marshall Islands are probably best know for their coral reefs, which teem with marine life. A holiday in Marshall Islands is the perfect choice for anyone looking for that classic beach experience on white sand lapped by gentle warm waves. You'll probably spend most of your time there swimming, snorkeling, or diving. If you're a fan of cultural activities, consider visiting a few farms or explore the curio shops, which sell souvenirs made using traditional methods.

Visit the Federated States of Micronesia to experience life on its 607 small islands, scattered across more than 2,600,000 sq km (1,000,000 sq mi) of the Pacific Ocean. These tropical lands dotted in the sea formed as the result of volcanic activity millions of years ago. Today, the four states each have their distinct culture, but share a common ideal of sustainability coupled with an abundance of biological diversity on land and at sea. Enjoy the traditions of the welcoming Micronesian people, and travel between the islands to observe their similarities and differences. A Micronesia holiday offers true exploration, with points of historical, biological, and cultural interest.