Cook Islands May 2012
The Cook Islands is the most beautiful place I have ever been to, in particular the islands of Aitutaki, a 40 minute flight north from Rarotonga.
Air New Zealand currently offers a direct service Sydney/Rarotonga/Sydney although the current service is seasonal. The direct flight now makes the destination very assessable for Aussies. (5/6 hr flt)
When visiting the Cook Islands I would highly recommend visiting both Rarotonga AND Aitutaki.
I have been to the Maldives but consider the Cook Islands to be a far superior destination. The islands are tropical with lush greenery everywhere with inland mountains. There is plenty to do here apart from swimming, snorkeling & diving although, with the colours and temperature of the lagoon, why would you bother! One can drive around Rarotonga in 45 minutes. You can also go on a 4WD tour to the centre of the island which offers spectacular views of the reef and the lagoon which surrounds the island.
The islanders are a friendly lot, never in a hurry, offering a smile at every opportunity and the local food is delicious too!
The Cook Islands is definitely a honeymoon destination. The destination would also suit stressed out Executives. Most of the resorts have a "no children" policy. Resorts which do allow children don't necessary have a kids club although they will arrange kids activities. Due to this I would think twice about advising families to travel to the Cook Islands.
New Zealand currency is used here. I found prices to be rather high. This destination is not for the budget conscious. Breakfasts are continental throughout. (Cereal, fruit, toast, coffee, juice) Cooked breakfast is an additional cost. (Eggs Benedict NZ$20 and real coffee NZ$5)
RAROTONGA:
Definately stay in a resort located in the MURI BEACH area (great for snorkeling). For lovers of fine food one MUST dine at "The Sands" (Titikaveka Beach) and "The Homestead" (Muri Beach). The new "Te Vara Nui Cultural Village" offers a great insight into the history of the Islands and offers a wonderful dining experience with a great over-water cultural performance. On Saturday mornings one can visit the "Punanga Nui Cultural Market" which is a great place to purchase souvenirs (black pearls, sarongs, craft items etc.) and to try local produce (fresh coconut juice - yum!). On Sundays I recommend visiting a local church (Arorangi CICC Church) to witness beautiful voices of the locals as they sing in harmony - a very moving experience for everyone!
AITUTAKI:
One cannot visit Aitutaki without participating in a FULL DAY LAGOON CRUISE (Te Vaka Co.) This is where you get to appreciate the true beauty of the area. You visit "One foot Island" - the most beautiful area I have ever been to! (Don't forget to take your passport to receive their very own special passport stamp!) Dine at "Tupuna's" Restaurant (looks like someones house) for a delicious meal.
Below are my property recommendations:
RAROTONGA (5 star) - Te Manava Luxury Villas and Spa and Rumours, (which are both stunning properties!) Te Vakaroa Villas, Royale Takitumu Villas, The Little Polynesian, The Pacific Resort, Sea Change Villa's (immaculately clean!) Crown Beach Resort and Spa. (4 Star - Suit families) - Muri Beach Club Hotel (request deluxe beachfront room 201), The Rarotongan Beach Resort and Spa (Best kids facilities on the island although the rooms are dated) Muri Beachcomber (rooms are basic but fine & lovely staff!). I personally liked the Raina Lagoon Villa's - not 5 star & very simple but very adequate and had a nice feel to it. Request the 'Moana Nui" Villa - absolute beachfront!
AITUTAKI (5 star) - Aitutaki Escape - OMG! - Ultimate in luxury. Nothing to look at from the road. however, once you step in behind the wooden door to your own private villa the sight will blow your mind! I also liked The Pacific Resort Aitutaki. 4 Star - (suit honeymooners and families) - The Aitutuki Beach Lagoon and Spa (under 16 years stay/eat free of charge). This is where Katrina Rowntree from Getaway spent her honeymoon. Interestingly though, it is not 5 star and is actually a bit run down however, the beach/lagoon area is priceless - a stunning part of the world. You have to catch a little boat from the mainland to the resort (1 minute) which is located on its own private island. I recommend the over water bungalows for honeymooners or the deluxe beachfront bungalows where I stayed for 2 nights. The water views from your bungalow are amazing!
To recap: I can highly recommend The Pacific Resort Rarontonga (Premium Garden Suite and above) and the Pacific Resort Aitutaki. Both are of a high standard without being over the top.
Would I return? Absolutely!