Cook Islands
Flew direct by Air New Zealand into Rarotonga and transferred to our hotel, the Crown Beach Resort where we had booked a courtyard pool suite. Our room was quite large and had its own courtyard and plunge pool. So plenty of privacy from the neighbours and a great way to cool off at night.
During our 9 nights stay we hire a couple of scooters and rode around the island easily (there is very little traffic thank goodness). A Cook Island’s bike license is easily obtained by just going along to the Police Station in town, paying the license fee and proving you can ride in a straight line and also stop! Having the scooters allowed us to have plenty of trips to different parts of the island. There are many wonderful spots to stop and have a swim.
We looked at many hotels : Edgewater Hotel, Rarotongan Resort, The Sanctuary, the Pacific Resort, Muri Beach Club Hotel and Te Manava Luxury Villas.
My favourite for groups/families was Te Manava Luxury Villas – right on Muri lagoon and each of the 18 villas has it’s own pool. 5 star and fabulous. For couples, I liked Muri Beach Club – on Muri Lagoon and adults only. A fabulous position.
- Why go there: To relax
- Currency : NZ dollars
- Dining out : There are many restaurants to choose from to suit all budgets.
- Cultural Night Out: Dinner and show at Te Vra Niu Village
- Shopping: Black pearls
- Hint: take insect repellant
- Would I go back : Definitely. Next time I would also include a trip out to Atutaki Lagoon; either staying overnight or just doing the long day trip.