The Cook Islands

The total number of hotel rooms in this nation are exceeded by almost any hotel found in Hawaii. A crowded beach here consists of more people than yourself! The quiet turquoise waters of the lagoon are perfect for snorkeling, swimming or just viewing.

The largest island of Rarotonga is the international gateway and the seat of the government. It is approximately 22 miles in circumference. One can circle the island by moped in about 45 minutes. The ocean road circles the island in two lanes where the proper way to travel is on the left. You won't find any traffic lights, only one roundabout, and a few stop signs in downtown Avarua. The only major decision of the day is: turn left or right?

I have visited the Cooks over 13 times since 1987. I find that this is where I need to return to restore my bearings. The perfumed air when disembarking from the plane brings back so many feelings and peacefulness. I have returned home. The many friends I have made over the years greet me and welcome me back. This also happens to my clients who make that second pilgrimage back! Often returning after a few years, after vacationing in other destinations, they feel the pull to come back to this amazing island. I visit the hotels and villas that have become my favorites over the years and try to update my knowledge of changes and improvements that seem to occur while I am absent. The island never seems to change, but seems to improve somehow! Restaurants change hands, new ones spring up and once in a while a new store will appear. But it never fails to enthrall me as I explore on my moped!

I have my favorite properties that seem to suit almost any taste. From the moderate Moana Sands on one of the most beautiful beaches, to more deluxe resorts like Pacific Resort and Crown Beach. The villas of Sea Change and Te Vakaroa never fail to astound me with tropical luxury. For the families wanting private villas, Villa Vacations offer many beautiful choices that never fail to please! For thatch roofed bungalows - Palm Grove is a favorite. The list goes on!

This destination is also favored for weddings and honeymooners. Most of the properties have complete wedding arrangments and can make even the most stressed bride's plans come together for an unforgettable experience.

I have only explored one outer island : Aitutaki. There are others that are visited by intrepid travelers, but I never seem to have enough time to get beyond Aitutaki. The beautiful Pacific Resort Aitutaki is well worth a visit of a few to several days. Another lovely property is Tamenu Beach. The lagoon waters here are the deepest turquoise and so clear that one can see the white sand below several feet of water and tropical fish.

The biggest draw of this country is the warm and friendly people. They are happy to share their island with visitors, and welcome you to their homes and churches. The music and dance are unlike any other South Pacific nation. There is no pressure to sell you anything at all! And yet, you are free to shop for many local items such as black pearls, fabrics, perfumes, clothing and many more handcrafts. There is a Saturday market open 8am-1pm that offers home grown vegetables, fruits, food stuffs, crafts and music, and should not be missed!

The restaurants offer freshly caught fish and shell fish, local fruits and vegetables and have some of the best food I have ever tasted! A visit to Trader Jack's is a must for any visitor. One often finds Jack himself entertaining the locals and welcoming visitors to his hospitable establishment!

If you want to do some cooking in your own kitchen, you can frequently find fresh fish and other items to take to your hotel and feast!

This beautiful South Pacific jewell will make almost anyone undeniably happy and ready to return again and again.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Mary Marlowe
503.546.1087 - direct
866.740.1087 - toll free
Email: mm@jbatravel.com

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