Smart Travels with Rudy Maxa

The cultures of the Pacific converge on the breathtaking islands of Hawaii. This trip Rudy begins on Maui, where he braves the twisting road to Hana with its cascading waterfalls and tropical splendor.

Sunning, swimming, surfing and boating at Waikiki Beach are just the start in Honolulu. Rudy explores Hawaii's Polynesian roots at the venerable Bishop Museum, remembers WWII history at Pearl Harbor, and pays homage to King Kamehameha.

The port city of San Francisco revels in art, diversity and food. Chinatown is a feast for the senses, and the city's new Asian Art Museum a must-see. We get savvy on sourdough and tour notorious Alcatraz Island

A hip, happening urban center surrounded by natural beauty, Seattle combines city life with the great outdoors. Rudy explores the vibrant downtown, samples microbrews and lattes, noses around Seattle's neighborhoods and hops aboard a ferry.

As Canada's door to the Pacific Rim, Vancouver is a vibrant mix of European heritage and Asian cultures. In this vital, young and dynamic city Rudy explores the mix of cultures that inspires world-class cuisine, a spirited night life and modern Asian shopping centers.

China's new powerhouse, Shanghai dazzles with fantastic skyscrapers, non-stop shopping and delicious dining. From traditional Tai Chi in the parks and teahouses to market madness and tumbling acrobats, Rudy explores tradition and modernity in this burgeoning city.

We get a Pacific Rim rush when we visit energetic, ever-changing Hong Kong. On a famous Star Ferry, Rudy savors one of the most majestic skylines on earth.

Australia's stunning metropolis, Sydney seduces with its glorious harbor, carefree attitude and sunny beaches. From the Opera house to the Harbor Bridge to Circular Quay Rudy basks in the sights along the harbor.

Sun-washed beaches, chic beachside towns, cliffs and rainforests and one of the seven natural wonders of the world, The Great Barrier Reef, Queensland is the ultimate outdoor adventure.

The South Island of New Zealand weaves Kiwi culture with scenic splendor. The vast vineyards of Marlborough helped bring this country's wines to the world stage.

With spectacular seismic activity, fascinating plant and animal life, and to-die-for natural beauty, New Zealand is a traveler's dream.

Guadalajara is alive with the music of mariachis, flowers, colonial architecture, and passionate artists. Rudy explores the rich history and culture of "The Most Mexican of Cities."

Mexico City, the world's largest metropolis, is modern, crowded, cosmopolitan, and steeped in tradition. Rudy begins with Mexico's ancient roots just outside the city at pre-Aztec Teotihuacán.