Esperance

Sure, you could spend your vacation sampling wines or snorkeling over coral reefs-both entirely worthwhile-but why settle for postcard cliches when Australia serves up Lake Hillier, a lake as outrageously pink as Barbie's Malibu convertible? Nature clearly decided that normal shades of blue were too mainstream and made a lake bubblegum-pink instead-a flamboyant flourish nestled on Middle Island, off Western Australia's rugged coast. Discovered way back in 1802 by the British navigator Matthew Flinders (who no doubt wondered if his grog had spoiled), Lake Hillier gets its neon hue from salt-loving microorganisms and algae-which sounds about as appetizing as three-day-old hotel sushi, yet looks utterly mesmerizing. Practical advice? Go airborne (booking a scenic flight a few weeks ahead is essential) because the lake's bold hue shines brightest from above. Early morning is best for optimal Instagram bragging rights, as the rising sun turbocharges its bubblegum glow. Budget around 300 AUD, pack sunglasses and motion sickness pills (unless plane turbulence is your jam), and prepare to hear your pilot proudly proclaim it's "totally natural"-about eighteen times. Sure, it might set you back a little, but where else can you casually mention in future conversations: "I once saw a lake so pink, flamingos got jealous"?