Cook Islands
On seeing the lush tropical mountains jutting out of the sea as I fly into Rarotonga, I feel like I’ve entered a film set. The crystal clear blue waters and white sandy beaches seemed almost unreal, until I entered the arrivals lounge to be met by the beautiful local people with their wide warm smiles. The 7-hour direct service with Air New Zealand from Sydney to Rarotonga was a very comfortable experience, even in economy class, though with fares starting from only $350, and business class from $1,300 I treated myself to the upgrade!
Time now to soak up the Rarotonga sun, to watch and listen as the waves of the Pacific Ocean crash on to the exotic reef on one of the Cook Islands most beautiful beaches. I stayed at Rumours Luxury Villas and Spa which offers prime beachfront Cook Islands accommodation. This beautiful Resort is owned by Belinda and Andrew who went out of their way to make our stay so memorable. If you can imagine that, it only gets better. The property is situated on Rarotonga's Muri Beach, with the glorious lagoon at your doorstep it is the best location on the island for snorkelling. Imagine sitting at the front of your luxurious beachfront villa, with only a few metres of white coral sand separating you from the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon. This Cook Islands accommodation is ideal for couples and honeymooners. A peaceful haven where you can just relax and enjoy the stunning views, with guests over the age of 15 years welcome.
There are 3 different types of villas to choose from. All self contained and some beach front garden villas.
We were provided a gourmet breakfast to cook in our villa without being pressured to wake up at a certain time to rush out for breakfast. The fridge was filled with eggs, fresh bread, fruit basket, a variety of jams and spread, sausages, tomatoes, coffee and tea and fresh juices to name a few.
There is a day spa in the complex if you wish to spoil yourself. Reasonably priced for an island stay.
I would highly recommend car hire as there is limited taxi service available on the island and can be very expensive. That gave us the flexibility to drive around the island and explore the different beaches and find little tucked away restaurants in town. Saturday markets was lots of fun, witnessing all the locals selling their fresh produce. For those who like to shop this isn’t the place to go but if you enjoy the outdoors there are plenty of things to fill up your days including kayaks, snorkelling, fishing, trekking and visiting waterfalls.
At night, we went to Te Vara Nui Village for a traditional meal and cultural dancing. The food was good, especially the baked fish in coconut marinade! And the show was a great way to see the beauty of the local women who dance in gentle fluid rhythm, while the men literally stomped across the stage. There was a very cool vibe from the live band playing their drums and ukuleles and the fire jugglers were mind boggling.
I also managed to squeeze in a trip to the magnificent Aitutaki. The lagoon here is even more breath-taking in real life; with turquoise waters, brilliant snorkelling it is picture-perfect and a true paradise.
I loved my stay here and the memories will stay with me forever!