A warm lagoon, a swaying hammock and a waft of frangipani are waiting in the Cook Islands, just under a four hour flight from New Zealand. Forget long arrival procedures and complex transfers – slipping into Island life in the Cooks could not be easier. Step off the plane at the island capital of Rarotonga to a song of greeting, be welcomed with a lei (flower garland) and soon you will be relaxing at your accommodation – the island only takes an hour to drive around. The Cooks are a group of 15 islands, scattered like pearls, across two million square kilometres of the Pacific Ocean. Rich in Polynesian culture, the islands are also closely linked with New Zealand – the Kiwi dollar is used here so there’s no currency exchange to worry about on your arrival. Rarotonga is the heart of the Cook Islands and is easy to get around. The island has its own classically gorgeous tropical beaches but also a mountainous, forest-clad interior that entices visitors looking for a little adventure. The Island is the stepping stone to the outer islands. While some of the other islands in the Cooks lie less than an hour’s flight from Rarotonga, the most isolated and pristine are accessible only by sea. Among those easily reached by air and that cater for visitors include Aitutaki and its astoundingly beautiful lagoon, Atiu, Mangaia and Mauke. Explore by yourself, join a tour, have a drink at a bar with the locals or join them to sing hymns on a Sunday. Wherever you are you’ll experience the Cook Islanders’ deep sense of hospitality and you’ll quickly become accustomed to the relaxed pace.
Cook Islands Holiday Destination Information
Cook Islands Highlights • Enjoy the watersports at Muri Beach - One of Rarotonga’s loveliest beaches, Muri Beach is great for swimming, sailing, windsurfing and snorkelling. A turquoise lagoon and tiny offshore island adds to its scenic appeal. Sails Restaurant, located at Muri Beach is a great place to enjoy a long lunch. • Attend an Island Night - A great way to experience the vibrant local culture is to attend one of the Cook’s famous Island Nights. Every major hotel puts on an Island Night at least once a week, with traditional song and dance, and an island-style feast known as an umukai. • Dining Out - is an absolute pleasure on Rarotonga. For something casual and relaxed enjoy Trader Jacks or The PawPaw Patch. For fine dining experience Tamarind House or Windjammer – the perfect place to enjoy that special occasion. • Local Nightlife - Party Time! Rarotonga has over 20 licensed bars with plenty of opportunity to hit the dance floor with in-house music and live bands. The local bands are extremely popular and the nightspots are open to midnight except on Fridays when they are open until 2.00am. Don’t forget to pack your dancing shoes. • Punanga Nui Market - Shopping is relaxed in Rarotonga, with plenty of variety and great bargains to be had. The main marketplace is the waterfront market located at the western end of Avarua. You will discover the beautiful black pearls which the Cook Islands are renowned for, handicrafts of excellent quality and colourful clothing at very reasonable prices. On Friday nights the market offers hot food, and if the fishing has been good, the catch is displayed for sale on the same day it was caught.
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