Darwin is Australia's most colorful, and exotic, capital city. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees. Warm and dry in winter, hot and steamy in summer, it's a relaxed and casual place, as well as a beguiling blend of tropical frontier outpost and Outback hardiness. Thanks to its close proximity to Southeast Asia and its multicultural population it also seems more like Asia than the rest of Australia. Darwin is a city that has always had to fight for its survival. The seductiveness of contemporary Darwin lifestyles belies a history of failed attempts that date from 1824 when Europeans attempted to establish an enclave in this harsh, unyielding climate. The original 1869 settlement, called Palmerston, was built on a parcel of mangrove wetlands and scrub forest that had changed little in 15 million years. It was not until 1911, after it had already weathered the disastrous cyclones of 1878, 1882, and 1897, that the town was named after the scientist who had visited Australia's shores aboard the Beagle in 1839. During World War II it was bombed more than 60 times, as the harbor full of warships was a prime target for the Japanese war planes. Then, on the night of Christmas Eve 1974, the city was almost completely destroyed by Cyclone Tracy, Australia’s greatest natural disaster. It's a tribute to those who stayed and to those who have come to live here after Tracy that the rebuilt city now thrives as an administrative and commercial center for northern Australia. Old Darwin has been replaced by something of an edifice complex—such buildings as Parliament House and the Supreme Court all seem very grand for such a small city, especially one that prides itself on its casual, outdoor-centric lifestyle. Today Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia's Top End, with its wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region.

Of all the wonders in this astonishing, lesser-traveled part of the world, few are quite as memorable as witnessing a free-flowing waterfall spilling directly from the rainforest into turquoise seas. Bursting from a region of vast, untouched natural splendor, this remarkable sight will captivate even the most seasoned of globe-wanderers. The Kitikiti Waterfall emerges from the dense jungles of West Papua’s western coast, in the Fakfak Regency – an area renowned for exotic natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural heritage. This precious and secluded location is one that only a fortunate few are lucky enough to experience. Depending on the tide, the fresh water either plunges directly into the crystal-clear sea or cascades gently down onto the soft sands of the beach. Take your time to absorb the breathtaking surroundings, admiring the stunning sea views and tranquil beauty of the remote tropics. Relax in the sunshine, then cool off by leaping into the refreshing sea or feeling the invigorating rush of the waterfall’s fresh flow, as it washes over you. Strap on your snorkel mask to swim into a world of life under the surface, just offshore. This is a world where dense forests spill down rugged mountainsides to meet pristine waters, showcasing some of the most remote and awe-inspiring scenery on Papua Island.

Swoon over the beauty of Pulau Karawapop, a place so enchanting that even its dreamy lagoons have formed into exquisite heart shapes. Set in the Misool area of the Raja Ampat Archipelago in West Papua, Pulau Karawapop is home to one of nature’s most extraordinary wonders - the stunning Love Lagoon. This entirely natural, heart-shaped expanse of deep blue water is so unique that it will have you reaching for your camera in admiration. Climb to the elevated viewing platform for the perfect vantage point of the unforgettable Love Lagoon. But first, take a moment to fully absorb the scene before you. The lush greenery draped over the karst cliffs, the turquoise waters, and the shimmering emerald shallows come together in a breathtaking display of nature’s artistry - a thrilling reminder of why we travel. From above, the heart-shaped lagoon creates a stunning focal point amid the verdant slopes and scattered islands. Swim in the irresistible, sparkling waters, or take to the Zodiacs for an up-close encounter with the tropical beauty of Pulau Karawapop. This romantic place is truly a love letter to the enduring allure of Misool and the Raja Ampat Archipelago.

Remote and dramatically beautiful, visiting ravishing Pulau Balbulol is like stumbling into a stunningly surreal world of natural creativity. Towering from the iridescent blue waters of the Raja Ampat Archipelago - home to some of the most spectacular waters and wildlife in the region - you’ll find Pulau Balbulol’s unique contribution. Conical towers of rugged limestone karst ascend in dreamlike formations, evoking comparisons with Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay - but without the crowds. Explore the beautiful, crystal-clear waters and corals surrounding the iconic pyramids of limestone karst, which rise improbably from the glorious turquoise waters and resemble rounded Christmas trees. Cinematic and pristine, Indonesia’s Misool region is a paradise best explored at sea level. The calm, crystal-clear waters around the karsts are ideal for snorkelling, offering healthy coral reefs and abundant marine life. Explore the serene lagoons by Zodiac and enjoy extraordinary snorkel safaris during your time in this ethereal realm of beautiful natural eccentricity.

Exotic birds flaunt vivid plumes of colour, while the kaleidoscopic waters of world-class diving spots sparkle close by. To visit Sanwinggrai, in the Milne Bay Province, is to venture into a hidden gem of deep-rooted traditions, extraordinary biodiversity, and untouched beauty. Leave the tourist trails behind and encounter an authentic vision of Papua New Guinea, amid the dense rainforests and immaculate snorkelling opportunities. Experience the shimmering, blossoming beauty of the legendary Coral Triangle - also known as the Amazon of the Seas - and explore the nearby Trobriand Islands, where clownfish dart, manta rays glide gracefully, and hammerhead sharks weave through the waters. As well as the healthy, coral-rich, and biodiverse seas, you can also witness the mesmerising and colourful courtship dances of the iconic Birds of Paradise. Trek through the rainforest to reach the charismatic birds, while also discovering the medicinal properties of the diverse rainforest flora. Sanwinggrai‘s villagers warmly embrace visitors, demonstrating their traditional crafts, like wood carving. Soak it all in on this remarkable adventure, as you make deep connections and hear ancestral stories expressed through enigmatic dances.

On Pulau Num, one of the scattered Yapen Islands in beautiful Cenderawasih Bay, you’ll discover a unique blend of cultural depth as well as the irresistible pull of the island’s paradise sands. Pulau Num lies in the pristine waters of West Papua, and this remote outpost has retained much of its conservative Motu culture. Explorers who reach these distant shores can visit an authentic stilt village, where traditional character and customs remain. With guidance from our trusted local guides, you will be privileged to enjoy rare access to the village and gain first-hand insights into life in this most remarkable of settings. The surrounding turquoise waters are no less spectacular and are part of the largest national marine park in Southeast Asia. Cenderawasih Bay National Park covers over 1.5 million hectares and is home to a fantastic variety of sea creatures, from resident whale sharks to gliding manta rays and clownfish flitting among the fronds of the coral reefs. Relax on the island’s idyllic tropical beaches, graced with powdery white sands and shimmering seas. Whether you choose to snorkel and swim in the crystal-clear shallows or join our knowledgeable expedition team for leisurely and informative walks, you can discover the unique beauty of Pulau Num at your own pace.

Kwatisore Bay is a two-kilometre-wide bay located west of Kwatisore Peninsula at the southwestern end of the wide Cenderawasih (bird of paradise) Bay. An area of 1,453,500 hectares, a great part of the bay, has been declared a national park. Within the national park is Indonesia’s largest marine national park. Some dive companies claim that Cenderawasih Bay is the whale shark capital of the world, and the area near Kwatisore Bay is one of the few places in the world where encounters can almost be guaranteed. The whale sharks seem to be permanent residents of the protected marine park and as the locals believe whale sharks are under the protection of spirits and will bring good luck, not only has fishing them been traditionally prohibited, but the fishermen actively encourage their presence by feeding them small amounts of their catch. Therefore, the best places and time to look for the whale sharks – and to swim or dive with them - are the local fishing pontoons during the early morning hours.

Leave the well-worn paths far behind and dive into the brilliant biodiversity of Western Papua. The rainforest bursts with life and is home to countless rare fauna and flora - from dazzling birds of paradise to unique medicinal plants. Aisandami Village, which waits in the lowlands of peaceful West Papua, is a welcoming gateway to a stunning marine park teeming with turtles, tropical fish and giant mammals. Nearby, the breathtaking Cenderawasih Bay National Park - Indonesia’s largest marine park - boasts crystal-clear waters frequented by magnificent marine life, including whale sharks, dolphins, and occasionally dugongs. This remarkable area is a vast treasure trove of unspoiled coral reefs, tropical ecosystems, and diverse fish species. The rainforests surrounding Aisandami Village promise further adventures - trek through the lush foliage, keeping an eye out for elusive wildlife like the flightless and fearsome cassowaries. Local experts will guide you to hidden lookouts where you can glimpse the famously flamboyant Birds of Paradise, known for their extraordinary, brightly coloured plumage and elaborate courtship dances. Along the way, you might cool off in stunning waterfalls and secluded natural pools or perhaps push canoes along the Woronggon River. A warm welcome always awaits in Aisandami Village, where the locals generously share their cultural heritage with visitors through dancing, traditional crafts, intricate wood carvings, and carefully woven baskets.

The beautiful cape of Tanjung Mannguar reaches out towards the heart of the massive Cenderawasih Bay - one of the most extraordinary marine environments found anywhere on the planet. Vast and rare whale sharks, patterned with white dots, hoover up offcuts tossed by local fishermen from their bagan platforms, floating on the bay’s waters. These gentle giants are believed to bring good luck, if you’re lucky enough to encounter them. Snorkel in the bay’s pristine clear waters, with our experienced team helping you to fully admire the sublime underwater diversity of the region - from lobsters to sea cucumbers, reef sharks, and tropical fish. Enjoy a truly stunning setting for a variety of water expedition activities, such as glass-bottomed boat rides, which provide an immersive clear window into an underwater universe of astonishing biodiversity. You’ll find Tanjung Mannguar in the easternmost part of Indonesia, at the northwest tip of New Guinea. Those who travel to this remote region are rewarded with many treasures. Savor the tropical richness, cultural heritage, and sheer diversity of life in one of Indonesia's hardest-to-reach, and most richly rewarding, marine parks.

Snorkel into an underwater world that is at once beautiful, surreal, and eerie, as you explore hidden beauty in the midst of extraordinary Cenderawasih Bay. A tiny teardrop of an island, Pulau Rouw is ringed by pristine waters and immaculate turquoise seas. But it’s what lies below that is most fascinating about this sliver of island paradise. The clear waters unveil the ghostly wreck of a lost American P 38 fighter jet, which lies highly accessible in the shallow waters. The contrast is striking and spectacular - as you observe how nature has reclaimed and repurposed this lost wreck. The fuselage is now a cradle of life, surrounded and resided in by diverse and swirling tropical fish life, as well as intricate sea corals. Enjoy a unique opportunity to snorkel in close proximity to a living wreck like this and unlock the region’s fascinating history - learning how the plane came to rest here. Our Expedition team’s deep expertise and local knowledge reveal the stories and secrets of the beautiful islands in the bay. Like its neighbouring islands, Pulau Rouw boasts luxuriant paradise sands, perfect for soaking in the beauty of remote tropical Indonesia. Part of the Coral Triangle, this region is envied for remote, under-explored islands which lie concealed far from the typical tourist trails. Enjoy visiting a true paradise island, which has fascinating stories to tell, and where there is a lot to discover beneath the surface.

This is immaculate Indonesia, leading you far from the tourist trails to stirring adventures. Reach the astonishingly beautiful shores of the Auri Islands, where lush jungles are fringed by soft white sands and irresistible turquoise waters. Immerse yourself in a colourful vision of relaxation amidst the pristine beauty of Cenderawasih Bay, a delightful retreat, where it can easily feel like you’ve slipped off the map into some heavenly realm. Leisurely hours can be spent swimming in warm, shallow waters, beach-combing, and sharing sunset drinks as the skies erupt with rich hues. Maransabadi Island is a fantastic place to snorkel and explore the bay’s vibrant underwater world. It lies within one of the most diverse marine regions on the planet and Indonesia’s largest marine park. Guided by our expert snorkelling team, you can view the tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, and majestic manta rays in some of the world’s most breathtakingly clear waters. Dugongs and whale sharks inhabit the bay’s thriving waters and occasionally grace with their presence. Whether you’re admiring the diverse and dramatic wildlife, or simply soaking in the tropical glory of this remote and wonderful seascape, Maransabadi Island is a true gem to explore.

Only about 30 kilometres (19 miles) from the Indonesian border, Vanimo is the capital of the Sandaun (or Sundown) Province. It is one of only two towns in this remote region of Papua New Guinea. Although the Sepik River originates in the province, it bypasses Vanimo far to the south. The Sandaun Province is relatively undeveloped, but Vanimo has lovely beaches and some picturesque villages in the vicinity. The interior is covered in rainforest and logging is an important activity putting to use Vanimo's port and protected bay.

Ali Island is one of the four islands located close to Aitape, off the northern coast of Papua New Guinea. The eastern shore of Ali Island has a beautiful white sandy beach and offers swimming and snorkelling. The five villages on the island connect via well-maintained trails that lead to the school and Catholic church closer to the northern end of the island. The indigenous populations of this island are welcoming to guests and yet maintain their unique way of living and dressing, with colourful ceremonial headdresses, arm bands and grass skirts. A village walk will take visitors past the clean local homes and gardens, to the Catholic church with its interesting paintings of the via crucis. Chat with the islanders or relax on the beach.

The eastern half of the island of New Guinea - second largest in the world - was divided between Germany (north) and the United Kingdom (south) in 1885. The latter area was transferred to Australia in 1902, which occupied the northern portion during World War I and continued to administer the combined areas until independence in 1975. A nine-year secessionist revolt on the island of Bougainville ended in 1997 after claiming some 20,000 lives. On the north coast of the island, we find colourful Madang, called the “prettiest town in the South Pacific”. Its peninsula-setting is a showplace of parks, waterways, luxuriant shade trees and sparkling tropical islands. Although small, the town has modern urban facilities, including hotels, department stores, markets and art shops. The people of Madang can be broken into four distinct groups - islanders, coastal people, river people and mountain people. These groups are similar in appearance except for the smaller Simbai mountain tribesmen from the foothills. The traditional dress consists mainly of traditional dyed multi-coloured grass skirts made out of either pandanas leaves or sago palm. The women from the mountain areas wear skirts that are colourless, narrow and stringy. Unlike the women, men wear meshy net aprons in front and a clutter of target leaves astern.

The volcanic island of Garove is part of the Witu Islands and once had a 5-kilometre-wide (3.1 miles) caldera. The island was historically used to produce copra and cocoa, and in fact, still is today. Most of the villages are located around the exterior of the volcano. Steep cliffs explain why there is only one area settled on the inside. A promontory at the entrance’s southwestern corner is taken up by the school and the catholic church of the village of Widu, the only village inside the caldera.

Rabaul, the former provincial capital, has quite a remarkable location. The town is inside the flooded caldera of a giant volcano and several sub-vents are still quite active today! The fumes of the volcano Tavurvur can be seen continually and the town suffered greatly during the last major eruption of 1994 when some 80% of the houses collapsed due to the ash raining down onto their roofs. Rabaul has a Volcano Observatory sitting atop the town’s center, monitoring the 14 active and 23 dormant volcanoes in Papua New Guinea. A small museum opposite the bunker used by Yamamoto during World War II shows exhibits relating to Rabaul’s local, German, Australian and Japanese past from the 19th century to Papua New Guinea’s independence in the 1970s.

Wild, uninhabited, and historical, Kennedy Island is a tiny piece of land in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Part of the remote Solomon Islands, the island is situated 15 minutes away by boat from Gizo, which is capital of the Western Province. Kennedy Island was formerly known as Plum Pudding Island, after an incident dating back to World War II. An incident involving one of the most famous figures in history.
John F. Kennedy, a lieutenant at the time, was a castaway on the island with his crew when their torpedo ship, PT 109, was sunk by the Japanese troops in August 1943. It is said that the future president swam dragging an injured crewmate by holding the strap of his life jacket in his teeth until reaching the island. He and his crew fed themselves with coconuts for two days before being found by Solomon Islanders. JFK even kept a coconut shell from the island on his desk in the Oval Office throughout his presidency.
For our history buffs, some artefacts dating from the crew’s passage can still be found on site. An island marked by history in short, but not only. Discovering Kennedy Island is an experience not to be missed for diving and nature lovers. The waters that surround the island are a submerged world of great richness and variety of colorful fishes and corals.

Explore a true jewel of the Solomon Islands, and encounter the authentic island culture and deep-rooted traditions of this region. The small Mbili Island lies close to the crystal-clear waters of the Marovo Lagoon, which is considered one of the world’s biggest double-barrier enclosed lagoons. A visit here offers the wonderful opportunity to meet local villagers and craftspeople. Mbili Village is a fantastic place to browse beautifully crafted items - such as masks inlaid with seashells and hand-carved hardwood sculptures - which are available for purchase from the open-air market. Visitors can also experience the traditional warrior welcome, and see ceremonial dances performed by dancers adorned with floral and leafy garlands.

Port Mary is the name of the bay adjacent to Ghupuna, the main village in Santa Ana. A bright white sand beach with huge shade-giving trees runs along the shoreline in front of the tidy village. The houses here are made with local materials and most are built on stilts. Islanders generally welcome visitors with traditional songs and dances performed by members of the three different villages on Santa Ana. Some local people will also set up stands offering souvenirs for purchase. The Solomons are best known for strings of traditional shell money and elegant carvings based on local stories and legends.

Unlike Espiritu Santo with its raised coral reefs and white sand, Ambrym is a volcanically active island with dark sand beaches. Ambrym is known as the island of magic and is the source of five local languages that all evolved on Ambrym. This handful of languages contributes to the well over 100 languages of Vanuatu. Some of Ambrym’s magic takes place in the lush greenery of the local community of Ranon. Here the people perform a very special and traditional ‘Rom’ dance. Participants prepare their masks and costumes in secrecy and the dance is reserved for special occasions.

North of Nadi through sugarcane plantations and past the Sabeto Mountains is Lautoka, nicknamed the Sugar City for the local agriculture and its big processing mill. With a population of around 50,000, it's the only city besides Suva and, like the capital, has a pleasant waterfront. It's the sailing point for Blue Lagoon and Beachcomber Cruises but is otherwise unremarkable for tourists, itself having few hotels and fewer good restaurants. Locals recommend the city as a less-expensive place to shop for clothing, but note that it can take as long as 45 minutes to drive here. Legend has it that Lautoka acquired its name when two chiefs engaged in combat and one hit the other with a spear. He proclaimed "lau toka" (spear hit) and thus the future town was named.