Benoa’s charms are most evident in Nusa Dua, one of the most beautiful beaches in already-legendary Bali. In this land of rice terraces, spectacular volcanoes and over 20,000 temples, the main destination is the stunning 17th-century royal temple complex of Pura Taman Ayun in nearby Mengwi, surrounded by a lotus-filled moat, giving it the feel of a garden sanctuary. Another favorite is the Sunset Temple, Tanah Lot, and don’t miss the batik factories for that perfect gift or souvenir.

A balm for the senses and spirit, with white-sand beaches stretching to a blissful horizon, Lombok is simply jaw-dropping. Known as a surfing paradise, Gili Mas is a volcanic and verdant spot and a splendid locale for stepping into the cerulean seas surrounding the islands of Indonesia. Revel in local culture by visiting a pair of 18th-century landmarks – Lingsar Temple and Mayura Water Palace – and pick up locally made handcrafts at a pair of charming markets.

Indonesia’s isolated Komodo Island is a natural wonder of tropical savanna and scrubland, home to the famed pre-historic Komodo dragon. Komodo National Park is the only place on earth that they can be found in the wild. The island of Komodo itself is about 60 squares miles in area with dramatic landscapes of 2,000 foot craggy mountains, canyons, Savannas and monsoon rain forests in the valleys. Human habitation is therefore limited to only one settlement in Slawi Bay.

Along the coast of the Northern Territory lies Darwin, a city isolated by the vast Australian desert. The area was sought by the French, Dutch and British, and was established as the town of Darwin in 1869. In 1942, the city was under the threat of a Japanese attack, so a major Australian military base was established. Today Darwin is the largest city of the Northern Territory, offering sights from its colonial past and excellent shopping and dining opportunities.

Along the coast of the Northern Territory lies Darwin, a city isolated by the vast Australian desert. The area was sought by the French, Dutch and British, and was established as the town of Darwin in 1869. In 1942, the city was under the threat of a Japanese attack, so a major Australian military base was established. Today Darwin is the largest city of the Northern Territory, offering sights from its colonial past and excellent shopping and dining opportunities.

This laid-back city in Far North Queensland is the gateway to a pair of World Heritage-listed treasures: the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef and spectacular Wet Tropics Rainforest. Sail by luxury catamaran to a pontoon moored atop the Outer Reef for a once-in-a-lifetime marine experience. Glide over miles of verdant jungle aboard the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, stopping to explore on foot the world’s oldest continually surviving tropical rainforest. In Cairns (pronounced ‘cans’), walk the city’s Esplanade overlooking the Coral Sea, pausing to dip your toes in an artificial saltwater lagoon. Encounter natural splendor at the city’s Botanic Garden and Cairns Aquarium or hit some lively shops and cafes.

Queenland’s capital city is a sun-drenched jewel with a spectacular riverfront, lush gardens and staggering variety of international cuisines. In popular South Bank, feel the white sand of Streets Beach while gazing at the sparkling ‘Brissie’ skyline. Walk amid brilliant jacarandas, flame trees and bougainvillea on your way to Brisbane’s Cultural Precinct, where the Queensland Art Gallery/Gallery of Modern Art beckons. Head north to the Sunshine Coast and the Australian Zoo, renowned for its conservation efforts and crocodile shows, or travel south for encounters with the famed fauna of Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Visit Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast for a taste of ‘Stralia heaven.

Make the most of your time in one of the liveliest, must-see cities of the Pacific Rim. From bustling Circular Quay along the glamorous waterfront, take in the graceful sails of Sydney’s iconic Opera House. Catch a glimpse of the past along the narrow, twisting laneways of the historic Rocks district in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Head west to the spectacular, untamed beauty of the Blue Mountains for a ride on the world’s steepest perpendicular railway. Get up close with Australia’s charming wildlife at the Koala Park Sanctuary, then end your day with a refreshing stop at a traditional Aussie pub.