What's not to love about these 80-plus, pearl-like islands strung across the South Pacific? Sure, honeymooners might flock to Fiji or French Polynesia for postcard-perfect, post-nuptial fetes, but Vanuatu's jaw-dropping views and dazzling beaches could give Bora Bora a run for its money. Throw in some exotic bird life, add one of the planet's most volatile volcanoes, and you've got a recipe for the ultimate tropical retreat.

Of course, the best part about Vanuatu is doing as much – or little – as you please. Feeling active? Some of the best diving on the planet lurks just offshore.Ready for some R&R? Dip into the waves at one of the country's swank beach resorts, where the hardest choice you'll have to make is Mai Tai or Singapore Sling.

After the past year, it's the sort of decision we can all get used to.]]> TravelGator http://www.travelgator.com/do/blogs/Wish-You-Were-Here Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:00:00 EST the 'Gator. And after years of Eastern escapades, we know that India doesn't disappoint when we're looking to scratch that itch for the exotic. This week, though, we're ducking the crowds at the usual tourist traps. While we've all gawked at Goa's beaches, gone mad for Mumbai, and reveled in Rajasthan's unparalleled treasures, it's in elusive, alluring Assam that we're setting our sights for a bit of Eastern escapism.]]> the 'Gator. And after years of Eastern escapades, we know that India doesn't disappoint when we're looking to scratch that itch for the exotic. This week, though, we're ducking the crowds at the usual tourist traps. While we've all gawked at Goa's beaches, gone mad for Mumbai, and reveled in Rajasthan's unparalleled treasures, it's in elusive, alluring Assam that we're setting our sights for a bit of Eastern escapism.

If the name rings a bell, it shouldn't be surprising: the region's tempting teas have been gracing Western cupboards and breakfast tables for years. But there's far more to Assam than just a good morning brew. The region's rich culture is revealed in the colorful tapestry of daily life, from dazzling dances to the sumptuous silks that weave their way into native wares. And while it's easy to get caught up in all that colorful clamor, this is also a good place to take a breather.

Assam's spiritual side is everywhere apparent. Hindu monasteries dot its scenic islands, pilgrims flock to its sacred sites, and a majestic, much-revered river wends through the region on its journey from the Himalayas. If you want to set your sights on less heavenly sights, you can ride along atop an elephant in search of game or head for the hills for some of India's most splendid scenery.

It's just the place to find some inner peace – if only for a few more weeks.]]> TravelGator http://www.travelgator.com/do/blogs/Wish-You-Were-Here Wed, 22 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EDT New Zealand last week, so we just had to keep the fun flowing here at the 'Gator. Sure, we could go the easy route and hop the short flight to Australia, or follow the tourists to such overrun wine regions as Bordeaux or Cape Town. But we're always looking for new adventures in new places here at the 'Gator – even if we just wind up lost in the bottom of a bottle.]]> New Zealand last week, so we just had to keep the fun flowing here at the 'Gator. Sure, we could go the easy route and hop the short flight to Australia, or follow the tourists to such overrun wine regions as Bordeaux or Cape Town. But we're always looking for new adventures in new places here at the 'Gator – even if we just wind up lost in the bottom of a bottle.

Getting lost, after all, is something we could get used to. Most of us probably couldn't find Moldova on, well, a map of Moldova. But this little republic remains one of the last hidden gems of the post-Soviet world. A country of striking churches, haunting monasteries, and beautiful, undiscovered valleys, it's one of the few former Soviet satellites to still be far off the tourist track.

And did we mention the wine? In a country not known for much – including its most famous pop export – Moldova's wineries are world-class. Take a stroll through 70 miles worth of wine-filled catacombs, visit the world's largest wine cellar, then stock up on some award-winning bottles at rock-bottom prices. It's something to tide you over for the long trip home. Oh, and don't worry about bringing along a designated driver:

The friendly locals are always happy to offer you a lift.]]> TravelGator http://www.travelgator.com/do/blogs/Wish-You-Were-Here Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EDT tough week for all of us, and even here at the 'Gator, we're feeling the pinch. Don't get us wrong: we're not about to hang up our passport and pine for better times. But with markets plunging around the globe, we're probably not the only ones who could use a little pick-me-up.]]> tough week for all of us, and even here at the 'Gator, we're feeling the pinch. Don't get us wrong: we're not about to hang up our passport and pine for better times. But with markets plunging around the globe, we're probably not the only ones who could use a little pick-me-up.

In fact, we could use a drink. There's no better cure for those contagious market blues than a nice bottle of wine, so this week, we're heading straight to the source. The great thing about New Zealand's vineyards is that they provide the perfect place to escape the headlines. Whether you're taking a tasting tour at a "wine education center" or sampling some award-winning pinot noirs, you're guaranteed palate-pleasing tipples, tasty bites, and views that might tempt you to leave home – and your portfolio – far behind.

Still in the doldrums over the Dow? Nervous about the Nikkei? Go for a soak in a thermal spa to ease those anxieties, or take a bike tour of the lush, scenic vineyards to give your woes a work-out. Don't worry: whether you've had one too many or can't bear the bearish market, there's always a cure for what ails you.]]> TravelGator http://www.travelgator.com/do/blogs/Wish-You-Were-Here Tue, 07 Oct 2008 12:00:00 EDT Alaska to the desolate dunes of Mali, we've managed to get away from it all these past few weeks at the 'Gator. But with apologies to the grizzlies and camels who kept us company, a bit of human interaction goes an awfully long way. So this week we're ready to get back into the thick of things – and maybe do a bit of Seoul-searching along the way.]]> Alaska to the desolate dunes of Mali, we've managed to get away from it all these past few weeks at the 'Gator. But with apologies to the grizzlies and camels who kept us company, a bit of human interaction goes an awfully long way. So this week we're ready to get back into the thick of things – and maybe do a bit of Seoul-searching along the way.

They say this much talked-about town is the new Tokyo, but Seoul's streets are a uniquely Korean creation. From the soaring skyscrapers of high-tech, hometown titans to the shopping malls crowded by local designers, Seoul's soul has its heart in the homeland. Even the city's latest luxury hotel gives an upmarket twist to Korea's traditional trappings – though funkier, Western-style digs abound around town, too.

Nowhere is this city's homespun spirit more apparent than on its dinner tables. Sure, if you're craving kimchi, you've come to the right place, but a creative culinary culture means you won't go hungry – or broke. From refined restaurants to noisy noodle shops where you can gulp kalguksu and munch mandoo, Korean kitchens have something for every taste and budget. Feeling adventurous? Check out our favorite food blogs to see what the locals are eating.

(It's okay: you don't have to try this at home.)]]>