Tonga is distinctly different to its neighboring island nations. This Polynesian kingdom, made up of 170 islands, carries a proud history that dates back over 3,000 years. On the main island of Tongatapu, travelers can explore ancient stone structures like the Haʻamonga ʻa Maui Trilithon—sometimes called the Stonehenge of the Pacific. Royal tombs in Lapaha offer a glimpse into the lineage of Tonga’s kings, while village life remains guided by customs that have changed little over centuries.

About halfway down the Oregon coast, the picturesque Yaquina Head Lighthouse welcomes you to Newport, a town known for its Dungeness crab and glorious harbor under the graceful Yaquina Bay Bridge. The historic Bayfront offers a mixture of shops, galleries, canneries and restaurants that serve fresh clam chowder, shrimp, oysters, crab and salmon.

Halong Bay, located in northeastern Vietnam, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. This natural wonder offers a variety of activities for visitors, including cruising, kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring extraordinary caves like the Sung Sot.

Symi, a charming island in the Dodecanese, Greece, offers a picturesque escape with its striking neoclassical architecture and vibrant Mediterranean colors. The town of Symi, a designated protected cultural heritage site, is renowned for its beautifully preserved pastel-colored mansions that line the harbor.

Easter Island, or Rapa Nui, is a remote gem in the southeastern Pacific Ocean that promises an extraordinary journey into the mysteries of Polynesian culture and history. Famous for its monumental stone statues known as moai, Easter Island captivates visitors with its enigmatic past. These colossal statues, crafted between 1400 and 1650 AD, are scattered across the island and are a testament to the islanders' sophisticated artistry and social organization.