For many travelers, the word exotic conjures up images of shorelines fringed with lush landscapes and swaying palms, mystical scenery enhanced by bold colors, uncharted culturals and striking tastes that delight the palate. At Holland America Line, cruises to exotic locales take our guests to places like the Far East, South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, and South America. If you’re looking for a cruise that ignites the senses and leaves you with unforgettable experiences that touch your inner explorer, these voyages are the ideal exotic getaway.

The Magic and Mystery of the Far East
The Far East is an enchanting part of the world where golden buddhas and glistening temples tell the tales of long ago. The entire region features exciting ports of call — from major cities bustling with activity to quiet villages that show off the allure of the Orient.

Cruisers looking for an adventure that explores several countries should join one of Volendam’s 14-Day Far East Explorer cruises that sail between Hong Kong, China, and Singapore.

Visits to places like Hong Kong, Singapore and Bangkok made the 14-Day Far East Explorer cruise all the more enticing.

During the journey, the guests will discover nine ports in five countries over two weeks, including an overnight at Bangkok. Visits to China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Singapore provide a great glimpse into this beautiful part of the world.

Head to the Land Down Under
Australia and New Zealand continue to be among Holland America Line’s most popular cruise destinations. Over time, this culturally rich part of the world has increased its cruise capacity because more travelers want to explore its emerald landscapes, cuddle with cute koalas, cruise its amazing fiords (yes, Down Under fiords are spelled with an “i”!) and see the largest coral reef in the world.

Clockwise from left: Fiordland National Park, Tauranga and the Great Barrier Reef make these cruises all the more memorable.

In addition to longer voyages around the continent, Holland America Line features Maasdam and Noordam on 13-, 14- and 15-Day Australia & New Zealand itineraries that cruise between Auckland and Sydney. New Zealand is the star on these exotic itineraries, with calls at Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Akaroa, Port Chalmers and Picton, not to mention scenic cruising in Fiordland National Park. Depending on the length and ship, the cruises also call at Burnie and/or Hobart, Tasmania; and Eden and/or Melbourne, Australia.

Set Your Sites on Beautiful South America
South America is a continent of extremes — from gorgeous and green to ice-capped and frigid. But no matter the landscape and climate, it’s a beautiful destination that boasts some of the world’s most sought-after experiences. While Holland America Line offers many cruises in this region, the 23-Day Inca Discovery aboard Zaandam departing Oct. 2, 2016, showcases one of the area’s main attractions: Machu Picchu. With an overnight at Callao (Lima), Peru, guests can travel overland to experience this Lost City of the Incas.

South America is filled with vibrant colors and sites, including Machu Picchu, left.

Before Peru, the ship explores the west coast of Mexico with five calls throughout the country, including an overnight call at Puerto Vallarta so guests can enjoy the local nightlife. Following calls at Guatemala and Ecuador, Zaandam visits three ports in Peru, including Callao. Two calls in Chile round out the intinerary before guests disembark at Valparaiso (Santiago), Chile.

Island-Hop Among the South Pacific’s Gorgeous Jewels
The South Pacific really is paradise on earth. Each island is more gorgeous than the next, with lush scenery, palms swaying in the breeze, golden beaches and treasures like black pearls. Not to mention locals that are warm and welcoming. For an in-depth getaway to this exotic locale, Holland America Line’s 23-Day South Pacific Crossing on Maasdam departs Sept. 26, 2016, and sails from Seattle to Sydney. The ship makes seven island calls at some of the region’s most iconic destinations, starting in Hawaii with stops at Honolulu and Kona.

This exotic voyage showcases the flowing lava of Hawaii’s volcanoes, Vanutau’s cultural center and palm-lined beaches of the South Pacific.

After crossing the International Date Line, the South Pacific island-hopping begins with calls at Apia, Samoa; Suva and Dravuni Island, Fiji; Mystery Island, Vanuatu; and Noumea, New Caledonia. A rainbow come to life, the islands of the South Pacific are drenched in rich shades of greens, while the water dances in azure hues. Golden beaches and colorful flowers make for a picture-perfect vacation.

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Have you thought about an Exotic cruise with Holland America Line? If you’re interested in cruising to these beautiful regions, there’s never been a better time to book. Our Anniversary Sale is on from now until June 1, 2016, offering savings up to $1,000 and reduced deposits. In addition, guests who book with our Anniversary Sale will receive “3 Free” per stateroom: a free $100 beverage card, free gratuities, and free or reduced fares for third and fourth guests. Guests who book a suite will receive 200 internet minutes and up to $500 in onboard spending money in conjunction with base offers.

What’s your favorite “exotic” destination? Tell us in the comments below!