Pacific island vacations take paradise from fantasy to reality
If you're seeking out what we've all come to imagine as a vacation paradise, you should set your sights on the South Pacific. Powdered sugar beaches, crystalline turquoise water, slender palm trees leaning into the sun -- it's tough to find a truly deserted island, but it is possible to find stretches of beach that you can have all to yourself to relax, bask in the sun and forget about every care in the world.
Pacific island vacations can take many forms because there are so many islands to choose from. Each has unique characteristics while still offering those classically paradisiacal elements of sun, surf, sand and a few coconut palms. Here are a few destinations to consider when trying to narrow down your options for Pacific island vacations.
American Samoa - Something of a hidden gem, this unincorporated territory of the United States makes travel easy -- the U.S. dollar is the currency, English is the language and American Samoa has everything you could want in a Pacific island and very little crowding. The capital, Pago Pago, has some American flavor, but once you're outside of the city, you'll forget anything about the mainland and focus on the spectacular beaches, teeming reefs and the emerald green and razor-sharp mountain ridges that rise up above them.
Fiji - The country of Fiji is made up of more than 300 islands, and fewer than half are inhabited. That translates to a lot of options for where you'll stay and what you can do. If your mind is set on spending as much time as possible doing as little as possible on the beach, you'll be pleased, but if you're looking for a little more action, it can be found just as easily. There is excellent diving to be had, as well as scenic jungles, tiny villages and a touch of the cosmopolitan in the capital, Suva, where you'll find museums, markets and plenty of nightlife.
Palau - Divers and snorkelers take note, Palau just might be the "holy grail" for you. Even if you're just an enthusiastic swimmer, this island nation, established in 1994 after years of being a United Nations Trust Territory, is one of the most magical places in the world to spend quality time under water. There are reefs, "blue holes," ship wrecks, underwater caves and picture-perfect beaches enough to keep your toes happily wrinkly throughout your visit. One of the most ethereally beautiful natural experiences in the world can be found here -- diving among thousands of tiny, stingless jellyfish in the very literally named Jellyfish Lake.
Tahiti - The main island in French Polynesia has more than a few surprises in store. For a start, its black sand beaches are a dramatic contrast to the white sand you'll find in other places throughout the Pacific, but it's also a stunning sight you'll never forget. The capital city, Pape'ete, has markets filled with exotic fruits, restaurants and plenty of opportunities to get out and meet people. But those who long for some simple beach time can find it in abundance on Tahiti or one of the nearby islands.
Planning a trip to the Pacific islands requires some planning ahead and a bit of research, simply because there are so many islands to choose from. Organizing vacation packages that include flights and hotel rates can help bring costs within easier reach, as well as helping to give your vacation some direction. Websites like Travelocity.com are a great resource for this and offer great rates and services like a fare-watching function that can alert you when prices drop.
Courtesy of ARAcontent