Day 1 : Tahiti/FR. POLYNESIA

The largest of the Society Islands in French Polynesia, Tahiti held a magical attraction for artist Paul Gauguin and writer Robert Louis Stevenson. To understand why, simply listen to the winds whistling through casuarina trees on a secluded black-sand beach, or stroll through beautiful botanical gardens and marvel at island flora.

Day 2 : Bora Bora/FR. POLYNESIA

James Michener called it the most beautiful island in the South Pacific. You may confirm his opinion, either by the local "Le Truck" transport, 4-wheel-drive van, or in a helicopter overhead. And the offshore beauty is accessible by a glass-bottomed boat or by snorkeling.

Day 3 : At Sea

Day 4 : Pago Pago/AM. SAMOA

Pago Pago is the capital of American Samoa, a verdant chain of seven South Pacific isles 2600 miles south of Hawaii. Populated for over 2,500 years, many experts believe this is the birthplace of Polynesian culture. The people of American Samoa are gracious and hospitable and value their traditional ways. You'll witness village life first-hand as you tour this lush, mountainous island.

Day 5 : At Sea

Day 6 : Apia/W. SAMOA

After years of wandering the south seas, Robert Louis Stevenson chose this paradise as his home. If you like, visit his house and Aggie Grey's hotel. After touring the island, you'll come to understand why the Reverend John Williams, the first European to visit Apia, dubbed Samoa the "Friendly Islands."

Day 7 : At Sea

Day 8 : At Sea

Day 9 : At Sea

Day 10 : At Sea

Day 11 : Suva/FIJI

Suva sits on the southeast shores of mountainous Viti Levu ("Great Fiji"), largest of the over 800 islands which comprise the Republic of Fiji. Local folk traditions remain strong, like fire walks and welcoming ceremonies, wood-carving and the fabrication of tree-bark cloth. The island's proud history is showcased in the Fiji Museum, with its impressive collection of war canoes.

Day 12 : At Sea

Day 13 : At Sea

Day 14 : Auckland

New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.

Day 14 : Auckland

New Zealand's largest city is draped over seven volcanoes and wrapped around Waitemata Harbour (meaning "sea of sparkling waters" in Maori). Despite its British feel, it is the world's largest Polynesian city. Shop for Polynesian crafts on Queen Street, the main drag. Or from atop Mt. Eden, overlook the "City of Sails," which will host the America's Cup races in 2000.