Just Back from the Cook Islands

By Melisa Carver

Kia Orana! I have just arrived back from my first visit to the Cook Islands. Upon arrival I had no idea what to expect, yet this island paradise exceeded all of my expectations.

Rarotonga - the capital of the Cook Islands and the outer islands, which consist of 15 scattered over 850,000 square miles of the Pacific Ocean, jewels of a tropical paradise which offer a blend of adventure and relaxation.

There is an abundance of accommodation on the islands, this is a great destination for couples and honeymooners to getaway and relax. The Cook Islands are renowned for island weddings… you can get married on the beach! All accommodation is either on the beach or within minutes from the beach.

Earlier this year, the island was struck numerously by hurricanes. This was a blessing in disguise for most of the resorts, as they have been refurbished and look as good as new!

The locals on the island are friendly and will stop to greet and help. The island of Rarotonga is 32km, so it is very hard to get lost. There are many means to getting around the island. Hire of scooters, jeeps & bikes which is a must to see the hidden beauties this island has to offer… waterfalls, beaches and churches.

The Cook Islands constantly enjoy the warm and sunny climate all year round. June to August are the cooler months, whilst November to March is the warmer season. While I was there we had a bit of rain, one of the locals said to me “this isn’t rain, this is liquid sunshine!” And that it was, after raining for a good 5 hours, the afternoon started as it began… not a cloud in the sky and the sun shining!

Whilst in the Cook Islands I was lucky enough to escape to Aitutaki for a day trip. Everybody was telling me how crystal clear the lagoons were; I thought all the water was clear and looked the same. The flight to Aitutaki from Rarotonga Airport was a 45 minute flight, and that’s where I gasped and was totally blown away at how crystal clear the water was.

Aitutaki is a great spot for total relaxation, but definitely bring your aero guard otherwise you will get eaten by the mozzies! Luckily, there are no poisonous insects or animals in the Islands. You can go swimming, sunbathing and it’s great for snorkelling as the marine life is gorgeous.

A lagoon cruise is also a must with pit-stops for snorkelling, a BBQ lunch and anything at your leisure while on One Foot Island. You can even get your passport stamped at a small fee.

I would definitely recommend the Cook Islands to anyone who wants an island getaway. Sunsets and cocktails is the perfect mix for a wonderful holiday and a relaxed pace of life. I was sad to leave but I will definitely be there again in the near future!