Hawaii’s cuisine is a fusion of flavors from both sides of the Pacific. A typical lunch will include both rice and macaroni salad. Despite the images of whole pigs slow cooking on a spit at a luau, Hawaii’s main ingredients come from the sea. The fusion of cuisines from east and west is just another reason to get excited about The United States’ top island destination.

Tropical fruits are plentiful and eaten fresh. They are also used often as garnishes for foods. That is not only the case with pina coladas. Some restaurants use mangos and papayas to make relishes for meats, including hot dogs and hamburgers.

Hawaii has fresh seafood, as would be expected. Asian influenced fish based dishes, both raw and cooked, are prevalent. Some food writers cite Hawaii as being the place where Asian fusion cuisine originated. Eating your way around the islands, it’s not hard to believe that hypotheses.

Most hotels and resorts have luaus on a regular basis. This is more for show than an attempt at authenticity, but the food is generally good; though the buffet style of most events is a bit impersonal.

Perhaps the most surprising part of Hawaii’s cuisine would be the prevalence of spam. Why, with the seas teeming with fish would Hawaiians rely on canned mystery meat to fill their stomachs? The Spam tradition goes back to World War II when locals ate what US troops stationed in Hawaii ate. These days spam dishes are served in restaurants and also at convenience stores.

Hawaii’s locally grown coffee is famous worldwide. It is light and has a fine taste similar to Jamaica’s Blue Mountain coffee.

Hawaii offers visitors stomach’s more than bland buffets and fast food. The diverse cuisine is another reason to get excited about this island paradise

Orlando is best known for its glut of theme parks. For that reason it is known amongst tourist as a family friendly destination. While the theme parks are the main draw for the area, Orlando’s image has been changing and it is now more than just the city that is the backdrop for Disney World.

Downtown Orlando has a lot to offer. Local residents spend sunny days at Lake Eola, a park near downtown. The lake is a swimming pool for swans and other fowl, and it is possible to rent a boat to ply the lake’s waters yourself.

Downtown is also home to many bars, nightclubs, and restaurants. Orange Avenue is “Main Street” and home to many of the city’s most popular establishments.

The ethnic enclaves known as Little Saigon and Little India are great places for shopping and eating. Restaurants and grocers selling imported goods and crafts can be found in both neighborhoods.

Orlando is a convenient place to visit, even if you shy away from the theme parks. There are numerous hotels and other services for travelers. If you are looking for a winter getaway that doesn’t include Mickey Mouse, Orlando is a good base for exploring the surrounding areas of Florida.

The University of Central Florida’s Arboretum houses thousands of plants on gardens covering over 80 acres. It is a venue for a pleasant stroll to say the least. The natural beauty of central Florida surrounds Orlando. Citrus groves and swamplands make good stops for nature lovers. The observation tower in Clermont, 20 miles from Orlando’s city limits, is a great place to see the surrounding countryside from on high.

Orlando’s weather makes it a perfect winter destination. There is plenty to do and see besides the theme parks that the city is famous for.

Darwin is a city on Australia’s far northern coast. Though not densely populated, Darwin is the Northern Territory’s major urban area. As such, it is the center for tourism and culture in the region. The vibe here is decidedly different from the crowded and cosmopolitan East Coast. The landscape is harsh, tropical, and more similar to Indonesia than Sydney. Still, visitors will be sure that they are in Australia. The stereotypically laid-back approach to life and the fun-loving attitude found throughout the continent make Darwin an easy-going place to visit.

Darwin is a relatively young city. Much was destroyed by a violent tropical storm that hit the city 40 years ago. Since then, however, Darwin has grown rapidly. Its port is a major feature. Also, Darwin is considered Australia’s gateway to Asia. The hot tropical climate has kept Darwin out of the tourism limelight. However, the natural beauty of the area and its cultural diversity make it a great place to visit.

Mindil Beach Market is a night market with a truly Asian flare. The open-air market is filled with crafts and foods.

Darwin is in the middle of crocodile country. These massive beasts make it dangerous to swim in inland waters, but the beaches near the city are completely safe. In fact, the main draw for many Australian tourists is the relatively untouched tropical beaches in and around Darwin.

There is a crocodile farm near the city where visitors can get up and close with Australia’s most recognizable animal. There are even companies offering cruises into the hinterlands in search of crocs. These are generally quite safe and a good way to see Northern Australia’s tropical interior without the fear of being eaten.

Darwin is also quite cheap. Because of the remoteness, it is popular with backpackers and independent travelers in search of adventure and untouched beaches. Accommodations and food are aimed at this group of travelers so it’s easy to find a good room and good eats for a cheap price.

Phnom Penh is coming into its own. For years, the dusty streets saw few visitors outside adventurous backpacker types trying to get off the beaten path. Tourists interested in Cambodia usually headed up to Angkor Wat, the ruins of a huge temple complex built hundreds of years ago. While Angkor is one of the most interesting and popular destinations in Southeast Asia, Phnom Penh also has unique attractions. As the infrastructure becomes better and better, it’s getting much easier to get in and around Cambodia’s largest city.

Here are a few things visitors can look forward to in Phnom Penh:

Sisowath Quay, on the banks of the Mekong, is an attractive boulevard. Locals, expats, and tourists find the area pleasant. A walkway along the river provides a great venue for evening strolls while the bars, restaurants, and cafes across the street are some of the best in the city.

Sisowath Quay begins near The Royal Palace. The Palace somehow managed to survive Cambodia’s turbulent and bloody conflicts and is now one of the finest examples of Khmer architecture. Inside the Palace grounds are two temples.

Wat Phnom, on a hill overlooking the city, is another temple worth visiting. The view from its grounds is as impressive as the structure itself.

Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum is a reminder of the violent conflict that left Cambodia in shambles. This is not a place for the squeamish, but important for those who want to see into the brutal reign of the Khmer Rouge.

The Mekong River is wide and scenic as it runs past Phnom Penh. It is possible to take a cruise on the river, perhaps visiting a village downstream or simply having a meal while afloat.

Phnom Penh is still a cit that lies off the beaten path. It is so charming and full of attractions that it won’t remain so for very long.

Las Vegas is home to some of the world’s biggest and flashiest casinos. It’s easy to get swept up in the bright lights, fast pace, and free buffets of Sin City. But outside of New York, L.A., and Vancouver, Vegas has some of the finest restaurants in North America.

It’s well known that celebrity chefs often earn huge bucks by stamping their name on a casino’s high-end eatery. This doesn’t automatically make them into some sort of gourmet version of McDonald’s though; some of these restaurants are quit good. But, there are plenty of good eats to be found on and off the strip.

Or perhaps you’d rather have some campy fun at Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville or another over-the-top theme place. There are plenty in Vegas. They wouldn’t survive anywhere else, but have become part of the landscape, and part of the experience.

ENVY Steakhouse is one of the best off-the-strip restaurants. We’re talking fresh ingredients including Kobe and Black Angus beef prepared with fresh and carefully prepared accompaniments.

Asian and Asian-fusion food is all the rage in Vegas these days. Shanghai Lily and Tao are two fine dining establishments to try the latest eastern creations in the west. Tao doubles as a nightclub that often features live national acts. We’re talking the latest hip-hop and pop. No plastic surgery aficionados singing the same songs they’ve been singing for 50 years here.

Another club worth checking out is 3121, which is inside the Rio Hotel. Prince often plays here on weekends. This is probably the hottest scene in the U.S.

People go to Vegas to gamble. That’s a given. What many are seeing, though, is that the restaurants and nightclubs that sit on the periphery of the casinos are just as big an attraction as the blackjack tables.

Jakarta is one of the most populated cities on the planet. While it is definitely a victim of urban sprawl, the central districts offer all the trappings of a major international metropolis. Central Jakarta (simply called “Central” by locals) is home to a vast majority of the ciry’s tourist attractions and excitement.

Indonesia has a glut of shopping malls. If you are looking to browse the upper end of the retail industry in air-conditioned comfort, there are plenty of venues in Central. Plaza Indonesia is the biggest and most expensive of these. Prices approach western levels, but there are some unique goods for sale. Malls like King Plaza are a step down from Plaza, but offer more reasonable prices.

If you are looking for a more traditional shopping experience, head to Pasar Baru (Baru Market). This is the best place to find deals and souvenirs, as long as you feel that your bargaining skills are up to the task. Pasar Baru is nearly 200 years old, and though the probably didn’t sell digital cameras and iPods back in its early days, the way business is conducted in the market probably hasn’t changed much over the years.

Jakarta is a place to party. This might mean visiting one of the numerous upscale dance clubs that bear names like New Stardust or, perhaps, trying your hand at some Karaoke. One won’t be in Jakarta long before realizing that the most popular sport in billiards. Pool halls are places to socialize and have fun. Just don’t get hustled.

Central is home to some brilliant upscale eateries, though these usually sit in the shadow of worldwide chains like KFC, McDonald’s (some open 24/7), and even Chili’s.

Central Jakarta is the heart of a massive city. Sure, Jakarta has many districts worth exploring. For shopping and having a good time day or night, Central is the place to be.

San Francisco might have the Golden Gate and L.A. might boast about Beverly Hills, but neither is the fastest growing city in California. That honor goes to San Jose, the third largest city in California.

First of all, San Jose is known as the “Capital of Silicon Valley.” Indeed eBay and Adobe have their headquarters here. While this might excite a few tech-heads in search of their dream job, it by no means defines the area. Rather, the valley was probably chosen by companies for its livability.

San Jose is often noticed for being the safest big city in America. Visitors can feel at ease wandering around day or night.

What is there to see in S.J.?

A trip to the city can start in Downtown, where hip boutiques and cafes butt up against art galleries and the natural beauty surrounding the Guadalupe River. San Pedro Square Farmer’s Market is in downtown; the fresh food as reminder that while tech is in the news, agriculture is still California’s largest industry. At night, an area known as SoFA gets shaking. There are plenty of nightclubs here, many of them under the impression that they are quite cutting edge.

Another popular nightlife activity is, of all things, hockey. The San Jose Sharks are a successful pro franchise and prove quite popular with local residents. The stadium, known as The Shark Tank, is the place to see San Jose let its hair down.

Berryessa Flea Market is an interesting place to buy or simply to watch. Spanish is heard much more often than English here.

Berryessa’s polar opposite is Santana Row, a hip and happening place featuring high-priced condos, too-cool boutiques, and a happening nightlife.

San Jose does not receive the press that other California city’s do, but it is an extremely attractive place to visit.

Lesotho is a unique country for several reasons. First, it is entirely surrounded by South Africa. Its high altitude (relative to the neighboring plains) earns it the name “Kingdom of the Sky.” Unlike neighboring South Africa, Lesotho is relatively safe. Visitors don’t have to worry too much about becoming victims of a crime. Still, when driving at night, local people often do not stop at red lights to avoid car jacking. This is more a precaution (with a bit of fun thrown in) than a necessity.

Amongst tourists, Lesotho is most known for its friendly people and natural attractions. Hiking in the beautiful highlands is easy. The government’s tourist bureau will provide a professional guide. Heartier trekkers will be able to visit isolated villages hidden in mountainous valleys.

The Maletsunyane Falls are probably Lesotho’s biggest attraction. The huge waterfall drops from the rugged cliffs down to a glassy pool. This is the best photo opportunity in the country and worth the hike it takes to get there. It is reasonably safe to climb down the valley walls to the pool. It is also possible to follow the Maletsunyane River downstream.

Lesotho has a long history. On of the most interesting sites is found in Thaba Bosiu. It was here amidst the mountains, that the first king of Lesotho succeeded in fighting off numerous invaders and consolidating Lesotho’s independence. He is buried here along with many of the other notable figures of the kingdom’s past. You can visit the tombs. The ruggedness of the place makes it seem quieter than it really is.

Lesotho has a proud history and a beautiful landscape. While it lacks some of the infrastructure of South Africa, it is far safer and has its own unique atmosphere and is a place of unsurpassable natural beauty.

Tel Aviv, a port city on the Mediterranean, has become Israel’s largest and most modern city. The city has the old (the ancient port of Yaffa) and the new (the massive Ben Gurion International Airport).

Tel Aviv’s cosmopolitan flare is not what most people expect upon arriving in Israel. Yes, the Mediterranean landscape and the aged landmarks are here, but they are drowned out amidst the non-stop energy and modernization of one of the world’s fastest growing cities.

Older areas like Yaffa and Kerem HaTeymanim are still great places for sightseeing and outdoor cafes. Newer neighborhoods like Florentin offer a view into a hipper side to Tel Aviv. Small art studios and trendy boutiques line the streets alongside small industries and auto repair shops.

Tel Aviv really comes into its own after dark. The city boasts a nightlife scene that rivals that of any major city to its west. Some of the biggest clubs (and tightest security) east of New York City can be found in the city’s many districts. Unlike most other cities that have an enforced closing time for all venues serving liquor, Tel Aviv’s nightspots remain open until the sunrise signals them to stop.

Haoman 17, in the aforementioned Florentin district, hosts top international DJs and is one of the most popular venues in the entire city. There are plenty of other nightspots that sport names like Dome, Lima Lima, and Dungeon.

For those who aren’t looking for a thumping bass line and packed dance floors, there are plenty of bars and cafes along the seafront. Many neighborhood bars and restaurants offer outside seating, which is an attraction in and of itself during pleasant weather.

Tel Aviv is the highest example of cosmopolitanism flare in the Middle East.

Idaho is known as the home of the potato. What could there possibly be to visit in a state that brags about producing some of the most commonplace foods in America?

One has only to look at Boise, the states understated capital, to find Idaho’s attractiveness. No, this is not Los Angeles, or even Seattle. If you come to Boise expecting anything as raucous as that, you’ll be disappointed. But, that’s not to say Boise isn’t without excitement or culture.

Case and point: Boise’s Shakespeare Festival. The outdoor festival takes place each summer against the backdrop of the foothills outside the city. If old English tragedies and comedies don’t suit you, try Boise’s Art Museum. It has some of the best local and regional artwork without the snootiness and prices you’d expect to find in a larger city. Yes, Boise has a cosmopolitan streak in its arts. It just doesn’t wear that fact on its sleeve. Many visitors might find that quite refreshing.

Boise is also surrounded by natural beauty. In fact, some places, like Barber Park, teem with wildlife even though they are within the city limits. Also of interest to nature lovers is the 15 mile long paved trail known as the Boise River Greenbelt. This path is perfect for rollerblading, biking, or simply walking. The path, as its name suggests, follows the Boise River and ends up in Downtown, where you can stop for some refreshment on a warm summer’s evening.

Boise is a midsized city that is not trying to be anything bigger. It celebrates culture and nature in a way that makes it unique.