I first became acquainted with the South Pacific during a 4-month backpacking trip many years ago. I later spent six years living in New Zealand and have now made more than two dozen trips to Australia, New Zealand as well as French Polynesia, Fiji and the Cook Islands. This corner of the world holds special interest for me due to the fabulous variety of landscapes, the uncrowded and unspoiled rural areas, the vibrant cities, the amazing wildlife, and the coastal zones complete with reefs, islands, beaches and dramatic shorelines!