Mexico Cruise from LOS ANGELES to YOKOHAMA aboard Crystal Cruises - Crystal Serenity

Moorea

Moorea is a marvelously beautiful island just twelve miles from Tahiti. Many visitors to French Polynesia take a trip to Moorea because it has so much to offer the wide-eyed tourist. For years Hollywood has used photographs from Moorea's gleaming lagoons and majestic mountains as "stock shots" for their movies. Moorea is clean and tidy, with a calm air and mood. This is the island you should go to if you really want to relax.

Geologists have deduced that Moorea's stunning landscape came from an erupting volcano thousands of years ago. One thing is for certain; you are sure to fall in love with this heart-shaped island. The majority of the 12,000 residents of Moorea live on the coast, and the fact that there are no towns or cities in Moorea adds to the overall charm. The main crop of the island early in the 20^th century was vanilla, and the vanilla producing houses that were set up then still stand today. Modern Moorea is a country that survives economically primarily because of tourism. However, vegetables and pineapples are harvested and shipped daily to Papeete for sale in the marketplace.

Moorea is surrounded by an offshore coral reef, and the island encloses a serene, sparkling blue lagoon. This makes Moorea ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, and boating. Cook's Bay and Opunohu Bay are two glorious bodies of water that are finger-shaped and cut through the center of the island. They constantly remain two of the most photographed water masses in the entire world. Mountains surround these enchanting bays, and great hiking trails are everywhere. The citizens of Moorea are polite but fairly withdrawn, quietly going about their peaceful island lives. But do not fall prey to the assumption that Moorea is slow or boring, because this is definitely not the case. Old Polynesia, with its traditional ways, has mixed with exciting tourist attractions to coexist in harmony. There are several fabulous dining facilities, art galleries, and hot shopping spots. Despite the worldwide acknowledgement that Moorea has received for being an island paradise, the beaches and inlands remain uncrowded and unhurried. After the breathtaking scenery, this is perhaps the next best feature of Moorea. Everything is so tranquil, and so far away from the bustling city life that encompasses the majority of the world.

Papeete

Tahiti is the biggest and most famous island in French Polynesia. For over 200 years Tahiti has been a destination that allured travelers from all over the world. Papeete is bordered by an aqua-blue sea and gorgeous beaches laced with palm trees. The landscape is downright magnificent, and the people friendly and helpful.

Although historians are not entirely certain exactly when and how the Polynesian people arrived on Tahiti, some facts are known. Around 3,000 or 4,000 years ago they left Southeast Asia, and we know that they were fabulous sailors and navigators. Arriving in present day Tahiti about 300 A.D., they settled on this island and others in what is now French Polynesia. These islands were originally ruled by all-powerful Chieftains, who commanded large fleets and ordered human sacrifices. But rest assured that the island is much more friendly now! Among the first European visitors to Tahiti included Samuel Wallis in 1767 and James Cook in 1769. They returned to Europe with tales of a tropical paradise run by savages, and full of beautiful women. It was no coincidence that soon after, every man in Europe was determined to visit this mysterious and alluring island. The islands became French Polynesia in 1842 when the French out maneuvered the British and took control.

As the 20^th century began, French Polynesia became unified into the French Pacific settlements. At this time, a program of fast-paced commercial expansion was instituted, and Chinese workers were made to work on cotton and vanilla plantations. As World War One began, almost 1000 Polynesians were sent by the French to fight the Germans. Currently, Tahiti is leading the charge in an attempt to gain independence from France. But at the same time, the citizens are welcoming, and everywhere you go in Papeete is a place of beauty and tranquility. Scuba diving, exploring, and dining in the fabulous Tahitian restaurants are among the most pleasurable activities. The food in the city is delicious, and all of the beaches accessible from Papeete are gorgeous and offer a plethora of water sports. Tahitians adore beauty contests and celebrations, so festivals and grand parties seem like weekly events.

Bora Bora

The most lavish destination in all of the South Pacific, Bora Bora is located 161 miles northwest of Tahiti in the Leeward Islands. Renowned traveler James Michener has repeatedly declared Bora Bora the world's most beautiful island. Actors, royalty, and cinematographers all make this Polynesian paradise their vacation spot of choice.

The first inhabitants of Bora Bora were Polynesian settlers, who sailed their canoes into the island's gorgeous lagoon during the 9th century. The name given to the island was "Porapora," during the reign of Chief Puni "The Terror." Then, during World War II, American armed forces were stationed on Porapora and called the island "Bora Bora." Despite the fact that there is no "B" in the Polynesian language, common usage prevailed.

This luxurious island was formed three or four million years ago by a series of volcanic eruptions. Today the island is almost entirely devoted to tourism. At times, visitors and temporary residents can outnumber the locals in certain areas.

In the center of the island, two dominating, black rock peaks stand amongst dazzling blue waters. They can be seen at any angle, and are a truly magnificent sight to behold. Bora Bora's Lagoon is another of the crowning visual achievements that blesses the island. You can wind surf, scuba dive, swim, jet-ski, or just soak up the warmth of the tropical sun. There are so many activities in Bora Bora that it is best to plan your trip ahead of time. Otherwise, you will end up either forgetting or missing out on some of the island's best features. Deep sea fishing for the Bora Bora marlin, driving off on a 4X4 safari excursion, or parasail through the sparkling blue skies. Chances are if you are feeling adventurous, Bora Bora has the ability to offer you whatever it is you want to do.

The landscape of Bora Bora resembles a circle of coral reef with a glorious emerald in the center. It is a surreal atmosphere that is so picturesque hours can be spent gazing at the sights. The horizon is so beautiful, and the ambiance so romantic that it is no wonder that Bora Bora has become one of the premier honeymoon destinations for American couples.

Rarotonga

Rarotonga is one of the premier destinations in the entire South Pacific, and many travelers find that this beautiful location is even more gorgeous than highly-touted Tahiti. Until recently, Rarotonga was seen as too remote to be a bona fide tourist destination, but in recent years the tourists have flocked to this island paradise. The Cook Islands are made up of fifteen small nations, with Rarotonga leading the pack in terms of size and population. The fishing off the coast of Rarotonga is incredible, and local fisherman claim to have landed some of the largest tuna and marlin anywhere. Outdoor sports are quite popular on the island; from golf to hiking to tennis, Rarotonga has it all. Typically the dining, sports engagements, and nightlife are about half as expensive as the islands in French Polynesia and the rest of the South Pacific, so get ready to have some fun! You can either do twice as much for the same amount of money, or do everything that you would do in Tahiti and spend half what you would there. Speaking of the dining and nightlife, it is tremendous on this spectacular island, with magnificent eateries and splendid stores everywhere. The Rarotonga Lagoon is a magnificent sight, and whether snorkeling or enjoying a relaxing swim, this place truly puts you at peace. The whole island has an air of harmonious joy, and everything you do you will do with a smile. The lagoon is ideal for exploring, but it is too shallow for scuba diving. Don't be alarmed, because the scuba diving expeditions outside the Rarotonga reef are glorious, and you will be hard-pressed to find more daring diving adventures anywhere.

The mountains and lagoons of Rarotonga are miraculous, and before missionaries arrived here in 1823, the island was a series of swampy habitats and dense valleys. These days, fruit trees and colorful crops light up the island, and everywhere you look, your eyes and heart will be more than satisfied. The climate here is pleasant all year long, and in the winter the temperatures drop to a delightful 75-degree range.

Suva

Suva is a tropical paradise, a place where you never want the day to end. But with sundown comes a whole new experience; Suva at night. When the stars come out, the restaurants get hopping and the clubs get going. The weather is great nearly all the time, and the brisk night air will feel wonderful after a day scuba diving in the sun. The outdoor sports adventures in Suva are fantastic, and this is one of the premier places in the South Pacific to scuba dive and snorkel. Diving in the Beqa lagoon is an experience that you will never forget. The restaurants and myriad shops in Suva are fantastic, and you are given terrific options when it comes to eating out. Many of the stores sell jewelry and handicrafts from all over the South Pacific, and you are sure to find something great to take home to your family and friends. During the day, there are a number of great sights and attractions to keep you busy, and the Fiji Museum in particular is a real standout. It has a tremendous collection of displays, and perhaps the most interesting are the remains of the H.M.S. Bounty that sank in 1789.

Suva is not large per se, but it sure is trying. This bustling city has everything you could want in a modern cultural center, but has managed to keep its heritage alive through its wondrous architecture and the natural beauty of the land. The parks and beaches of Suva are lovely, and basically anywhere you go you will encounter one or the other. Suva encompasses ten square miles and is a hilly area full of life and wonder. The scenery along the coastal sections of the city is beautifully picturesque. In fact, you are sure to catch yourself gazing for minutes at a time, unaware that time is even passing at all.

Until 1870, Suva was a quiet little city no different from any other in Fiji. But when Australian settlers came here to grow cotton and sugar, the area became livelier. However, they failed in their attempts to grow crops, and eventually the British took over. Through the years, Suva has seen influences from many different Asian and European cultures. Today, people from all kinds of backgrounds live in harmony in this glorious portion of Fiji called Suva.

Auckland

New Zealand offers a vacation with a twist. A perfect amount of diversity, a sprinkle of familiarity, and enough sights and great spots to keep you busy for months. Auckland is no exception, with dozens of spectacular restaurants, museums, and shopping facilities. You will find that Auckland is a close-knit community full of friendly and helpful locals, eager to assist you any way that they can. The environment is spectacular, and you will be in awe of the uniqueness of the land. The jewelry that is designed in Auckland is marvelous, and over forty different jewelers are represented in one small area. If you are looking for new ways to spice up your wardrobe or your home, Auckland is definitely the place to go. Auckland is said to produce some of the finest quality chocolate in the world. They claim that theirs rivals Sweden's. Give it a try, and you'll most likely agree!

Nicknamed the City of Sails, Auckland is perhaps the most bustling city in New Zealand. Home to 1.3 million people, some of it is cosmopolitan, while other parts are strictly tropical, and have gorgeous beaches with scuba diving, water sports, and fabulous sailing. Be warned that there is a great deal of big city life here in Auckland, but it is counterbalanced perfectly with the subtlety and warmth of the small town feel that emanates from the secluded parks and cozy diners. The energy in Auckland is overwhelming, and you cannot help but get caught up in it. The nightlife in Auckland is stellar. The bars, clubs, and dance joints rock throughout the night. Touring the 48 dormant volcanoes in Auckland could keep you occupied for days with their scenic wonder. In short, Auckland is a captivating city bursting with natural and man-made attractions, ready to be enjoyed by tourists from around the world.

Tauranga

Tauranga is by no means your standard New Zealand town. The weather cannot be classified as hot, although Tauranga is blessed with over 2,400 hours of sunshine every year. That is certainly a plus, and every relaxing activity imaginable is offered here. The city is the second fastest-growing town in all of New Zealand, with only Queenstown expanding at a faster rate. Currently, Tauranga is home to 82,300 people, and on average 50 families have been moving to this bustling city every year. It is no wonder why the region has become so popular, as it is safe, exciting, diverse, and warm. From touring in a four-wheel drive vehicle through the hills to swimming with the dolphins, Tauranga has it all. The hot springs are glorious, and you could spend an entire day and night lounging in the bubbling saltwater pools. They are truly magnificent, as are the restaurants and accommodations in Tauranga.

Tauranga is the place to go if you need a vacation from everyday life. The beach sports and activities are active all year long. If you love water sports, then Tauranga is the place for you. The fishing here is great, and yachting and sailing are incredibly popular. The White Island volcano is an exciting destination, as it is the only live marine volcano in New Zealand. Even though it is active, the guided tours and hikes remain quite popular. The shopping and eateries in Tauranga are great, and you are sure to find some unique cuisine in this fast-growing town. If you enjoy kiwis, or just unusual and interesting sights, then visiting the Kiwifruit Country is an absolute must. The terrain, nightlife, and museums in Tauranga are all diverse and wonderful, so if you want to mix in some culture with your beach going, scoot on over to Tauranga, New Zealand.

Wellington

There are so many good things to say about Wellington, that I will start by mentioning that it is the cultural and entertainment capital of New Zealand. During weekends, there are more people visiting Wellington than anywhere else in the country. There are many reasons for this, but perhaps those at the forefront of any tourist's mind will be the exquisite architecture, great museums, and fabulous dining establishments. The accommodations and amenities in Wellington are superb, and during the summer there are many hot beach spots. In the wintertime the area can get bitterly cold, so it is understandable if you would prefer a warmer visit. Nearly everything is within walking distance, and this helps out tremendously. If you are new to the region, or a tourist in town for a few days, the fact that you can see so many glorious sights on foot is an incredible traveling advantage. Shops, elegant galleries, restaurants, and theaters line the streets, and the nightlife in Wellington is spectacular. There is something exciting for you to do no matter what time of day or night.

The harbor in Wellington was originally controlled by the British, and they named it Port Nicholson. It was not until 1839 that the city was renamed after the Duke of Wellington. The main governmental sector of New Zealand was stationed in Auckland until 1865, when it was relocated here, and Wellington has been the political center ever since. The city is compact yet diverse, meaning you can see a lot in a small vicinity, but what you will be seeing will differ tremendously. This is one of the interesting aspects of Wellington, the fact that two stores or buildings right next to one another can be so architecturally or culturally different.

The harbor is the most visited part of the city. The Queen's Wharf complex is here, complete with extravagant dining and shopping facilities. The recently opened Te Papa National Museum can be found at the harbor as well, and it is one of the city's premier cultural sites. Wellington is the official capital of the country, and 407,000 inhabitants reside in this city set between the ocean and the mountains. The landscape is glorious, and the scenery beautiful. Living well in Wellington is not just a tag line, it is the truth.

Sydney

Sydney's secret was revealed to the world at the 2000 Olympic Games. The secret? That Sydney, the capital of New South Wales, is one of the most dramatic, sophisticated, diverse, and fun-loving cities in the world. From its world famous Opera House to its pristine beaches, Sydney truly has something to offer everybody.

Sydney is Australia's largest city, with over four million people calling it home. While it covers over seven hundred square miles, it is remarkably easy to get around town. Buses, trains, ferries, taxis, water taxis, and even a monorail are all available to you.

Sydney's cultural highlights include a handful of museums and art galleries. The Australian National Maritime Museum is phenomenal, as is the Art Gallery of New South Wales. Tourists marvel at the world-renowned Sydney Aquarium, and many have undertaken the challenge of climbing the Harbour Bridge.

The city reveals its true magnificence when the sun goes down. The harbor positively sparkles, and the town crackles with energy. There are plenty of fine restaurants to choose from, and the nightlife gives as much as you're willing to take.

Because you are on such a limited time budget, you probably won't have much occasion to leave the downtown and harbor areas, unless you squeeze in a trip to the beach. If this is your first visit to Sydney, then that will probably suffice. But because there is so much to see and do in Sydney, you'll probably end up plotting your next visit before you leave!

Melbourne

Melbourne is Australia's second-largest city, trailing only Sydney. Over three million people call Melbourne home, and the city's welcoming climate has attracted people from all over the world to this city on the southeast coast of Australia.

Melbourne and Sydney enjoy a healthy rivalry, but even Sydneysiders cannot argue that Melbourne is Australia's shopping king. If you have been saving up for shopping armageddon, this is your chance! Melbourne also boasts of some of the best restaurants, music, and fashion in the country.

Much of Melbourne's boom can be attributed to the gold rushes of the 19th Century. Gold was found in the city's surrounding hills. The Ballarat and Bendigo gold rushes fueled the city's rise to prominence, as people from all over the world came to Melbourne to seek their fortune. In recent years, another wave of immigration has transformed the city into an international hub.

The city can be easily broken up into smaller neighborhoods. You will most likely spend the majority of your time in the City Centre, an area bordered by Latrobe and Flinders Streets to the north and south, and Spring and Spencer Streets to the east and west. Chinatown is nearby, with Carlton to the north, where you'll find the University of Melbourne. The Yarra River runs through Melbourne, affording opportunities to stop for a picnic lunch along the banks.

All in all, you'll find Melbourne to be one of Australia's most dynamic and diverse cities, with more than enough activities to keep you busy during your stay.

Adelaide

Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, one of the six provinces that make up Australia. Covering an area slightly larger than Texas, 1.4 million people call South Australia home, with most of them concentrated in Adelaide. That means lots of open space. The South Australian Outback is gorgeous, with tiny towns scattered all around the dry, hot land.

Adelaide has retained some small-town charm, even though it is now home to one million people. The River Torrens runs through town, and the city layout is very simple, so tourists can find their way around with no problem at all. The people of Adelaide are fairly cosmopolitan, with the city having welcomed people from all over the world since its foundation. Its German population in particular has added to Adelaide's allure by bringing their world-class winemaking skills with them from Europe. As a result, South Australia produces some of the world's best wines, with vineyards in the Barossa Valley constantly coming home with top honors from international wine competitions.

Adelaide has more restaurants per capita than anywhere in Australia, so you won't be left wanting for variety when it's time for dinner. Visit the central market, pick up some fresh food and take it to the botanical gardens in the center of the city for a picnic lunch. Or take a short field trip to the Barossa Valley, but make sure you have a designated driver for the ride back. However you spend your time in Adelaide, you're sure to enjoy the temperate climate and laid-back atmosphere.

Perth

Perth is often overlooked when people talk about Australia. Sure, Sydney and Melbourne attract more attention, tourism, and accolades, but Perth can more than hold its own on any list of Australia's best cities. Perth is the capital of Western Australia, one of the six provinces that make up Australia. To call Western Australia expansive is to underestimate it. At 965,000 square miles, it's three times the size of Texas!

Perth is similar to Sydney, with modern skyscrapers poking at the skyline, overlooking the brilliant Indian Ocean. Perth's beaches rival any in Australia, and the city's beautiful botanic gardens on the edge of downtown would be a highlight anywhere.

Perth also affords the adventurous traveler with many exciting options. There's the port town of Fremantle, where you may end up spending all of your time if you're not careful. Rottnest Island is just twelve miles offshore, and some of Australia's best scuba diving and snorkeling sites can be found here.

Perth is exceptionally tourist-friendly, with a free transport zone in the middle of town allowing you to explore without having to worry about your wallet. The people are more than helpful, and the shopping and restaurants are top-notch. The city extends its warmest welcome to you, and after one visit, you're likely to return!

Bali

Bali is a tropical haven, full of fabulous sights, wonderful activities, and extravagant dining facilities. The shopping is superb, and the outdoor markets will dazzle even the most seasoned island veterans. The scenery is remarkable, and the golf is extraordinary. A trip to Bali is a trip to paradise. The region is safe and the locals are friendly, making your stay all the more delightful.

There are a few cultural do's and don'ts that you need to be aware of while touring Bali. The community is very respectful, and their culture and heritage reach back many years. They appreciate tradition, and the citizens do not approve of exposing skin, or acting in a raucous manner. For this reason there are no nude beaches on Bali, and in addition, skimpy bathing suits are frowned upon. Be certain to be fully clothed at all times, unless you are on the actual beach, at which time a modest one-piece swimsuit is most appropriate. Flashing large sums of money, or talking incessantly about monetary principles, are also looked at negatively, and the locals will be much less helpful and responsive if you behave in this manner. In general, the inhabitants of Bali will assist you in any way they can, and they are friendly and extremely polite. Simply obey the above stipulations and your trip to Bali will be an outstanding one.

It is a common misperception that Bali is located in the South Pacific. It is actually snuggled in between the Indian Ocean and the Java Sea. This small island is incredibly romantic, and many American and European couples choose Bali as their destination of choice to celebrate their honeymoon. There are ceremonies, celebrations, and festivals going on all the time in Bali. They are so frequent that it seems as if there is something of major importance occurring every day. From fun in the sun to entertaining nightlife, Bali offers round the clock enjoyment.

Semarang

Located on the picturesque Java Sea, the port of Semarang is the capital of Central Java and a fascinating tourist destination. Home to 1.5 million residents, Semarang is Indonesia's fifth largest city and a true metropolis. In this thriving city, you will find a wealth of attractions and activities, including fascinating museums, incredible architectural sights in and around the city, delicious and diverse dining opportunities, unique shopping experiences, and so much more.

Semarang's history dates back to the 9th century, when it was known as Pergota. While the city initially took a back seat to the neighboring port of Jepara, it began to gain prominence in the 17th century, growing exponentially thanks to Dutch trade influences in Indonesia.

Semarang has truly come a long way from its humble beginnings, and it is a great melting pot of East Asian and European cultures. The Chinese quarter is a lovely, colorful enclave near downtown Semarang, in stark contrast to the Dutch commercial district, a quiet, forgotten region of Semarang that hints at the city's European past.

Singapore

Singapore is a wonderfully exciting destination that is full of relaxing activities, great architectural sites, and outstanding dining experiences. The shopping is world-class, and the nightlife is vibrant, as well. The abundance of water sports will please all of you looking for a physically challenging activity or two. The islands neighboring Singapore are gorgeous, making them ideal for an afternoon excursion. The protected park areas and nature reservations are beautiful, and there are a number of interesting attractions, especially in the historic district, that are of excellent for sightseeing and exploring.

Singapore may be a small island, geographically speaking, but it is tremendously popular with tourists. The locals are quite pleased with their home, as Singapore features some of the lowest violent crime rates of anywhere in the world. It is a very safe city for the whole family. The numerous religious factions represented in such close proximity in Singapore coexist peacefully and respect one another. This is one of the most visited places in all of Southeast Asia. If an exotic cruise destination with extraordinary scenery and a friendly society sounds good to you, then look no further. Singapore features all this and much more.

The region is so diverse that you will have no problem enjoying a completely different type of cuisine for every meal. The Chinese Opera plays in Singapore, and they are dynamite. In a single neighborhood, you will observe Muslim mosques, Chinese temples, Christian churches, and Hindu worship sites. The government of Singapore runs a tight ship, and this is probably why it is such a thriving, safe community. As a result, be wise and observe all local rules and regulations, because the law is relatively strict.

Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, otherwise known as Saigon, is as fascinating as it is entertaining. There are a number of great activities to keep you busy, and wonderful historic sites, museums, and shops to keep you interested. The dining facilities and small groupings of stores are wonderful, and while portions of Ho Chi Minh resemble a bustling commercial center, other parts are quiet and agricultural. Some of the locals keep to themselves, subdued and caught up in their daily routine. Others will be the first to greet you, inviting you to the grand opening of their bar or restaurant. It is the tremendous diversity of Ho Chi Minh that makes it such a desirable tourist destination. There is so much to do and see, and it is an incredibly friendly city. The citizens will assist you almost without exception, and the city is relatively easy to navigate.

This exciting Asian city is a relatively new one, only founded in the 18th century. Chinese and Vietnamese merchants from the north settled Ho Chi Minh, as they were looking for political and economic freedom. The majority of the first inhabitants to the area were civil war refugees. It did not take long for Ho Chi Minh to become a powerful commercial center. Its location and abundance of natural resources made it a desirable location for trade and commerce. This is still the major commercial port in all of Vietnam. Five million people live in Ho Chi Minh, making it the largest city in the country. It is located on the Saigon River, and the atmosphere in and around the city is extremely engaging. The Chinese district springs up out of nowhere, and this is part of the charm of the city. Many of the best aspects of Ho Chi Minh are often stumbled upon un-knowingly. They just pop up and you are instantly transported into another dimension of fun and excitement. The food here is outstanding, and the nightlife exceptional. There are a couple of rather seedy portions of the city, but no more than anywhere else. Exercise the same caution as you would at home and you should be fine. Phan Thiet beach is great if you can make it out there, but if not, there is so much to do in this wonderful city that your time will constantly be occupied with delightful activities.

Hong Kong

Many feared that Hong Kong's incredible rise to prominence would be stunted when Great Britain handed control of the island back to China in 1997. In the years since, however, Hong Kong has continued its meteoric rise to become one of the leading economic centers of the Pacific Rim.

This position of strength could hardly have been anticipated. When England gained control of Hong Kong after the 1841 Opium War, the island was regarded as little more than barren rock. In fact, most of its value came from its strategic trading position, for it stood as a perfect entryway to Canton. Hong Kong started to rise slowly, but exploded only after waves of mainland Chinese came to the island, fleeing the Communist Revolution. Many of the refugees included China's elite businessmen, who came to this small island and transformed it into a wealthy economic hub.

Hong Kong's skyscrapers actually take their name literally. Companies continually strive to outdo each other by building huge edifices, seemingly one on top of the other. But if you can escape Hong Kong Island, you will be enchanted by the less developed islands that surround it. A side trip to the island of Lantau will remind you that there is more to Hong Kong than tall buildings and money.

Hong Kong can be easily divided into three main sections. Hong Kong Island measures only thirty square miles, but this is where you will probably spend most, if not all of your time. Each district on the island has a distinct feel to it, with some more focused on fashion and others concerned with economy and industry. Kowloon is the peninsula that lies across the harbor from Hong Kong Island. Finally, the New Territories cover two hundred square miles of mostly pristine, undeveloped territory.

Shanghai

Shanghai is a paradox, both an anachronism and a look towards the future. The Pearl of the Orient has a rich history, replete with multiculturalism and international intrigue. After the Communist takeover, Shanghai hibernated, before beginning to reemerge in the past decade. Since Deng Xiaoping proclaimed Shanghai to be the head of the new Chinese dragon, the city has undergone a complete facelift, with a booming economy that accounts for nearly twenty percent of China's gross national product.

These happy days are reminiscent of Shanghai's past. The city was divided up into small, independent, autonomous concessions, with a British section, a French section, and an American section. While part of Shanghai remained Chinese, many locals chose to interact with the Westerners, and Shanghai became known as the Paris of the East. The Communist Party was born in Shanghai, and after it came to power in 1949, the city closed its doors to the outside world until recently.

Sixteen million people call Shanghai home today. The city is poised to become China's international face of the future, and a construction boom is fueling that feeling. The Pudong New Area is being transformed from farmland into the city's economic center. Shanghai's stock market is found here, along with some of the tallest buildings in the entire world. In just fifteen years, the number of high-rise office buildings has increased tenfold, and that number is still growing. This burgeoning economy has again attracted people from around the world, allowing the old spirit of Shanghai to re-infect people. The city has come full circle.

Nagasaki

The charm and elegance of Nagasaki is much more covert than other Japanese cities. While not an outright tourist town, Nagasaki does remain quite popular because of its grace and beauty. While it is true that Nagasaki is not filled with luxurious resorts, famous museums, and world renowned art galleries, the gardens and parks more than make up for its lack of man-made spectacles. The landscape is gorgeous, and Nagasaki relies on its intrinsic beauty to attract people from all over the globe. This tactic has worked, as cruise ships flock to this exquisite port city, with passengers eager to experience some of the wonder of Nagasaki.

The green hills are magnificent, and Nagasaki has one of the prettiest harbors in the entire world. It is a circular masterpiece, and surrounding it are small, close-knit neighborhoods full of people who are extremely proud and loyal members of the community. Nagasaki is known as one of the safest and most pleasant cities in the country, and the fact that it is culturally diverse makes it all the more interesting. The population here is right around 500,000, and the yearly festivals, great restaurants, and ancient temples combine with the aesthetic brilliance to form a spectacular atmosphere.

In 1571, the harbor of Nagasaki was opened to European ships for trading purposes. Soon after, it became a major port for many Western countries, especially Portugal and the Netherlands. This triggered the Chinese to get into action, and they quickly set up camp along the Nagasaki harbor. This region became a booming trade center in no time, and its fame spread throughout the world. Even during Japan's trade isolation, it was the lone city of Nagasaki that was allowed to continue trading with Western civilizations. This is an important, historic, and wonderful city that demands a visit. The scarring from the tragic World War Two bombing is almost nonexistent, and all that remains are memories, stories, and landmarks that pay tribute to the lost souls. If you look in the right places, you will be delighted by the great shopping facilities that are found throughout the city. Sometimes they may prove difficult to uncover, but half the fun is trying, as Nagasaki is compact and incredibly fun to explore.

Osaka

Osaka is one of the premier vacation spots in Japan. Beautiful and busy, graceful and lively, Osaka has it all. The rich heritage of the region is complemented by the modern feel and splendid architecture. The ancient landmarks are glorious, and you will be treated to marvelous wonders at every turn. The citizens of Osaka have great pride in their hometown, and they should, because it is magnificent. While there are a number of outstanding man-made achievements in Osaka, the best sites are those that combine the thought of man and the brilliance of nature. Two examples of such spots are the Floating Garden Observatory and the Osaka Aquarium, where locals and tourists can see nature in its truest and most exquisite forms.

In addition to the extraordinary intrinsic glory of the region, the Osaka government has really done a terrific job in the last few years of keeping the city clean, pristine, and full of activities. There are a tremendous number of enjoyable engagements to take part in at any given time, especially at night and on the weekends. The businessmen and employed population of Osaka are incredibly hard working, so when they get a little time off they love to party. Great bars, fabulous restaurants, and fun karaoke clubs line the streets in certain areas of Osaka, and a night out is a fun night indeed. During the day, there are spectacular museums and architectural triumphs to hold your attention, and the underground shopping network is extraordinary.

Osaka is located on Honshu's southern coast, and has a fascinating 1500-year history. Heritage is important to all members of Japanese society, and families have an incredibly strong bond within them. Assisting a parent or grandparent in need is always the primary duty of the children. This extravagant city, so full of energy and meaning, is the capital of Osaka Prefecture, and is the third most inhabited city in Japan after Tokyo and Yokohama.