Star Collector: Treasures of the South Pacific

Say hello to Stamford Raffles' engaging city, a modern metropolis which is blended with the traditional historic towns of the founders. These include Chinatown, Little India and the Malay community of Kampong Glam. The Singapore River meanders through the center of the island with vistas of skyscrapers and historic shop houses, often side-by-side. Singapore is a tropical garden city with flowers and greenery everywhere. Among the attractions are the domes at Gardens by the Bay located near Marina Bay and the UNESCO World Heritage Site Botanic Gardens. Orchard Road is the epicenter for shopping some of Asia's leading retailers and includes both international brands and local shops.

Described as paradise, Bali's spectacular beauty is difficult to describe in words. The calm waters and beautiful white sand beaches of the small village of Benoa have made it the prime water sports area of Bali. Bali Volcano, also known as Mount Batur is a popular sightseeing destination with magnificent views from the Batur Caldera. Batik is still very popular in Bali and is considered one of the country's most highly developed art forms.

The home to about 5,700 of the unique Komodo dragons, this park works to protect its biodiversity,. It has been declared both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Man and Biosphere Reserve. In addition to Komodo dragons, there are other notable wildlife here such as the orange-footed scrub fowl and the Timor deer. Marine life here finds more than 1,000 species of fish, 260 species of coral, Dugong sharks, manta rays, over 14 species of whales, dolphins and sea turtle, plus 70 species of sponges.

Dili is the largest city and capital of East Timor. East Timor became an independent country in 2002 after declaring independence from Indonesia for the second time. Dili is rarely visited by tourists and offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy genuine encounters with the locals and unscripted explorations of the city. Visit the statue of Cristo Rei standing at 89 ft high, the Motael Church, the oldest Catholic church in the country, and Tais Market to buy home-made woven products.

Alotau is known for its warm hospitality, lush landscapes, and authentic exposure to Papua New Guinea's Milne Bay culture. Travelers visit for its coastal beauty, traditional music and dance performances, and opportunities to learn local culinary techniques—such as clay-pot cooking using fresh root vegetables and island spices. With its relaxed pace and strong cultural identity, Alotau offers a meaningful glimpse into everyday life in PNG.

The Conflict Islands captivate travelers with their extraordinary natural beauty—turquoise lagoons, dazzling coral reefs, and some of the most vibrant marine life found anywhere within the Coral Triangle, one of the world's richest marine biodiversity zones. As one of Papua New Guinea's most pristine and remote island groups, they offer idyllic conditions for snorkeling, diving, and wildlife encounters far from typical tourist routes. Visitors are drawn to the serenity, ecological richness, and the rare feeling of discovering a truly untouched paradise.

Honiara offers rich cultural experiences and deep historical significance, drawing visitors interested in World War II heritage and the pivotal battles that took place on Guadalcanal. Museums, memorials, and relic sites provide powerful insight into the island's wartime past, while vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and friendly local communities reveal the living culture of the Solomon Islands. It's a compelling blend of history, tradition, and tropical island life.

CHAMPAGNE BAY, ESPIRITU SANTO

During the Dutch Golden Age, ships set sail from Vlissingen for distant points in the Dutch colonial empire. Today, yachts like ours come to enjoy the resort's lovely beaches, seaside boulevard, and nearby attractions. The Renaissance monuments of Antwerp are just an hour away. In Ghent you'll find a medieval city full of charm. Or revisit the Waterloo Battlefields and Napoleon's greatest defeat.

This small, hidden island in a group of 6 islands offers a private beautiful beach off the beaten path with crystal-clear waters inviting amazing snorkeling. In 2002 a developer offered to buy one of the islands, which the villagers declined and instead signed an agreement with Seacology prohibiting island development for 20 years and establishing a no-take fishing reserve for 10 years

Nicknamed the "Sugar City" due to its expansive sugarcane plantations, Lautoka's biggest employer is the Lautoka Sugar Mill, founded in 1903. Lautoka is the birthplace of PGA star Vijay Singh and is lovely with its tree-lined streets, colonial homes, outdoor markets and a cheerful, vibrant culture. Sights to see include South Sea Orchid Garden, Sabeto Village and Nadi Marketplace or Temple. This is also the place to make time for a relaxing mud pool bath.