Top Beach Vacations - Int'l: Editor's Top 10

Viti Levu, the largest island, is where most visitors spend their time. It is divided into three basic areas: around the city of Suva (on the east, the wettest and most humid side); near Nadi (west, the driest); and the Coral Coast (on the dry southwest side).... Goto Destination Guide »

On the southern tip of Spain, the port city of Cadiz (pronounced CA-deeth) has been active since 1100 BC. During the days of the Roman Empire, its dancers were famous throughout the Mediterranean region. In the 18th century, Cadiz monopolized trade between Spain and America, and wealth was poured into its crowded-but-impressive town houses and gold-domed cathedral.... Goto Destination Guide »

Cape Town is looked upon by Table Mountain, a flat-topped stone behemoth that rises above the town, dwarfing even the tallest skyscrapers in the business district. But don't spend too much time gazing at the view. There's more to the city than its picture-postcard profile.... Goto Destination Guide »

Rio de Janeiro Brazil-sensuous, chaotic, sophisticated, open and friendly-is one of South America's gems. The Cidade Maravihosa (Marvelous City), as Brazilians call it, displays a unique blend of contrasts: old and new, tremendous wealth amid crushing poverty, an urban metropolis nestled around mountains and a huge forest. And all of Rio de Janeiro is symbolically embraced in the outstretched arms of Cristo Redentor, the statue of Christ the Redeemer atop Corcovado Mountain.... Goto Destination Guide »

The island of Crete is Greece's largest island and home to Europe's first civilization more than 5,000 years ago. Now it has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in the Mediterranean. Millions of vacationers from around the world choose this island every year for its excellent beaches, its natural beauty and its active nightlife. The island is scattered with world-class heritage sites ranging from the 3,500-year-old Minoan palaces and Roman cities to medieval castles, Renaissance... Goto Destination Guide »

One of Australia's largest cities is drawing crowds-and not just because it's a convenient place to stay while enjoying nearby subtropical forests, wildlife and beaches. Downtown, centered along bends in the Brisbane River, is a vibrant mix of modern skyscrapers and older buildings-some of which date back to the city's days as a penal colony. Mount Coot-tha, a scant 5 mi/8 km away, overlooks the city-go there at night for the view or during the day to visit the botanic gardens (subtropical flora... Goto Destination Guide »

Named for a shipwrecked Englishwoman, Eliza Fraser, this island north of Noosa Heads is the largest coastal dune system in the world. A paradise of beaches, coves and wildlife (such as the Australian dingo), it also has lush forests and clear lakes that contrast dramatically with its wind-sculpted sand. Fraser Island is best negotiated by four-wheel-drive vehicles driven onto barges at Inskip Point. Tour operators will rent the vehicles as well as pick you up at Hervey Bay airport or from accomm... Goto Destination Guide »

Island vacations don't get much better than St. Barts. St. Barthelemy is beauty, luxury and exclusivity all in one. Of course, wanting a vacation on St. Barthelemy and actually having that vacation are two different things-you'll need some serious money to get there.... Goto Destination Guide »

Sadly, this island, the most popular stop in Indonesia, was the scene of several horrific bombings in October 2002 and October 2005. It's especially sad to see terrorism reach Bali, because the island's friendly people, Hindu culture, rhythmic dances, volcanoes, sculptured rice paddies, beautiful jungle and mountain scenery, and spectacular beaches-combined with a wide array of accommodations-make it one of the most fascinating places in the world. It's a magical place-despite the ever-expanding... Goto Destination Guide »

The Costa del Sol town of Marbella (pronounced mar-BAY-ya) is a popular vacation spot for wealthy Europeans and Arabs, and a modern Arabian flavor is clearly evident. Its narrow streets, lined with whitewashed buildings, now experience traffic jams, but it still has fantastic shopping and restaurants, good nightlife and several acceptable beaches in and near town. Fountains and thousands of trees grace the seaside promenade. Its major fiesta occurs in the middle of June.... Goto Destination Guide »