East Asia & The Pacific
Area Destination Guides

Full of dormant volcanoes and surrounded by breathtaking coastlines, there is so much adventure to behold in Auckland, New Zealand's largest city. Known as the "City of Sails," you'll likely see boats and water activities of all kinds being enjoyed no matter where you go along the shores. Auckland has so much beauty and excitement just waiting to be discovered by travelers. It is a must-see city that creates lasting memories, especially for adrenaline junkies.

Fifty million years ago the Australian continent broke away from the great southern landmass of Gondwanaland, which comprised South America, Africa, India, Australia, and Antarctica. Apart from a period during the last Ice Age when the sea level was 100-meters lower than it is today, Australia existed in isolation. This resulted in the evolution of vegetation and wildlife which is substantially unique.

The Cook Islands have Polynesian roots and were slowly populated by the Maori people as early as the 1500s BC.

There are over 3,500 years of native history on the more than 300 islands that make up the Pacific island nation. The history of Fiji, as we know it, starts in the late 17th century and the early 18th century. Beginning in the 1640s, sailors began to pass by and briefly land on these islands. As far as history is concerned, it is accepted that Fiji was "discovered" by the world in 1789 by Captain William Bligh.

The bustling metropolis that is Hong Kong holds over 7-million people within its borders in southern China. This lively, crowded city is rich in history, culture, and entertainment. Known as a unique administrative region, it maintains separate government and economic systems from the rest of the country. With on the most thriving economies, investing and international trade is massive in Hong Kong.

Shanghai, China, has grown from a fishing village to a bustling metropolis. Its coastal location led it to become a port during the rule of the Eastern Jin and Tang dynasties. The Southern Song Dynasty elevated Shanghai from village to market town in 1074. It was named a city in 1291, thanks to the Yuang rulers. Shanghai's original name was Hudu, derived from the word that describes wooden fish traps.

Known for video games, anime, and electronics, Tokyo is a vibrant, colorful city with lots of energy. Expect to see market filled streets, lots of lights, and a ton of people. Tokyo has a predicted 14-million people living in its borders. Vanishing in to the city for some shopping and photography is an everyday activity among the residents of Tokyo.