Cook Islands
Rarotonga
Rarotonga is the capital island of the Cook Islands, a small group of volcano-formed islands about 2000 miles north east of New Zealand. With high peaks in the centre, lush jungle just below and sandy beaches and lagoons all round the island, Rarotonga is a typical Pacific island paradise. Warm turquoise seas lap gently against soft sand beaches which sometimes open into coconut and palm tree lined blue lagoons. There is one 20 miles long main road around the island and a few small inner roads. You can buy a cheap 10-trip bus pass and take leisurely journeys clockwise or anti-clockwise, or you may prefer to hire a small motorbike for a little more freedom.
Rarotonga Amenities
Although the Cook Islands are not over populated, there are lots of places to stay in Rarotonga. Arore Heights is part way up the volcano with beautiful panoramic views which include the very popular Muri Lagoon. With three isolated well-maintained villas with all mod cons to choose from, this is real luxury and is extremely modestly priced. Restaurants are plentiful ranging from small cafes to large expensive places attached to large expensive hotels. The Avoena restaurant at the south of the island serves a wide variety of food and drink. I had a delicious vegetarian curry and my first diaquari there (that's a gorgeous rum, lime and syrup mixture). There are several small shops with most things you need, although I was rather surprised that fruit juice was so hard to find with so many fruits growing on Rarotonga. Cola rules, unfortunately.
Rarotonga Activities
Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean it is not surprising that sailing, snorkelling, diving, swimming and deep sea fishing are popular activities and well catered for. Football and rugby are also very keenly followed. The Cook Museum and Cultural Village need a visit as do the botanical gardens. Rarotonga is blessed with luxuriant vegetation and flowers, the flame tree, gardenia and sweet scented frangipani being particular highlights. There are several cybercafes for your internet addiction and friendly traditional music and dancing for your entertainment.
