Destination Overview: The South Pacific

by Roy Witman

Just say "South Pacific" and immediately images of little grass huts, palm trees swaying in the balmy breeze and electric-blue water pop to mind. Defined by Princess Cruises and other cruise lines as the Hawaiian and Tahitian islands, the South Pacific comprises several of the most popular "one day" destinations on the earth (with most people promising themselves they'll go there "one day").

It's well worth the effort and the money! The term "paradise" really doesn't do this region justice. "Perfection" may be more in line with what you'll find. The natural scenery everywhere you look is simply astonishing. Mother Nature has created displays in this area of the world that aren't replicated anywhere else. For those who love beauty, warm weather, gorgeous beaches and a variety of water activities, the South Pacific may be calling to you.

Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii may be the most frequently visited of the seven islands with Maui and Oahu following close behind. But don't discount Kauai, Molokai or the others, as each offers a diverse experience all its own.

Known for its exceptional collection of active volcanoes, the island of Hawaii offers many opportunities to fly, ride, bike or walk right up on the rim of these massive mountains. Fire pits, lava tubes and more will keep you enthralled. If walking a green is more appealing than walking the rim of a volcano, world-class golf with some of the most awe-inspiring fairways in the world can be played on Hawaii.

Famous for Pearl Harbor and the final resting place of the U.S.S. Arizona, Oahu has a lot to see and do. Tour Pearl Harbor and visit the museum, which depicts the events of that fateful day. Pay your respects to those entombed in the Arizona and reflect on what was considered both our most horrific and finest hour. But Oahu offers much more than history. Surf the famous north shore of Haleiwa, known throughout the world for some of the best waves anywhere.

From whale watching in the Pacific Ocean to jungle tours in the lush island of Kauai, each of the Hawaiian Islands brings a unique vacation best experienced via cruise ship. Princess and other cruise lines give you the ability to jaunt between all the islands in order to partake of what each offers… all without unpacking your bags or changing hotel rooms!

Tahiti

Further south from Hawaii is a culture much like that depicted in the movie South Pacific. Local pearl farms in Polynesia, the extremes of the Cook Islands - from rainforests to windswept beaches plus waterfalls and lagoons, brightly colored flowers, lush jungles and much more keep you busy, as you explore until your heart is content.

Exceptional reefs at French Polynesia give snorkelers and scuba divers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view sea life from this region up close and personal. Hiking through the forests, jet skiing across the open Pacific, visiting the legendary lagoons of Bora Bora, exploring the ancient temples of Moorea and more will keep you busy for days on end.

Like with the Hawaiian Islands, the islands of Tahiti are best discovered via cruise ship. With a wide selection of itineraries, you can pay one price and then be ushered from island to island without having to change hotels or unpack.

Regardless of whether you choose to tour just one island or the entire South Pacific region, your vacation will be filled with amazing memories of a tropical paradise that really does live up to its reputation.

Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals on
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