Understandably the sweetheart of Polynesia, Cook Islands is constantly concocting a recipe for runaway romance. Overwater bungalows boast simmering views of manicured gardens and misty lagoons, while hammocks ripple in the palm-infused breezes. At a seaside thatched villa, enjoy a dowry of complimentary gift hampers stocked with vintage wines and fresh-picked fruits, not to mention the novelty fact that no edifice is allowed to exceed the height of an unassuming coconut tree.
the romance
On Island Night the stars come out to play. A traditional Polynesian feast or umukai involves an outdoor pit of scorching hot stones as dishes of kai (think marinated mussels, watercress, and honey-fried piripiri) are roasted to absolute perfection. Once tummies are full, the entertainment or karioi takes over – a firestorm of traditional singing, dancing, and drumming. To ensure your morning after is blissful, take breakfast out on a shaded patio by your own private pool. Indulge in a tama coconut scrub, moana aquamarine sea salt rub, or akaora sea mineral mud pack, while clutching your buffed lover’s hand.
the scenery
From the fetchingly pretty Papua Waterfalls, to the softly serene swimming holes, Cook Islands is composed of fifteen islets-worth of sea and shimmering pawpaw and banana fields. The two tourist-deemed champs, the islands of Rarotonga and Aitutaki, are surprisingly unspoiled by the sandy footprints of its visitors, but differ in geography like a certain Olsen pairing differ in stylistic preference. Rarotonga is graced by lush mountain footpaths while Aitutaki basks in champagne sands and blue lagoons.
the attractions
The bustling little hub of Avarua likes to get nifty with its plentiful shops filled with crafts, flower garlands, and strands of black pearls. Market stalls tantalize avid shoppers with customized garments and blossom-anointed lotions. If the pint-sized tikis have got you hankering for the real deal, head out to a cruise of Muri lagoon aboard a glass-bottom boat. Enjoy a stroll through the National Museum, before beating the heat with a luscious pitcher of noni juice and sliced watermelom.
the adventure
Cook Islands is practically a decathlon of action – hike, pony trek, game fish, or scuba dive, before assuaging joints with a round of squash. Rock out with a local drumming lesson or plunge to your depths at Aroa Beach’s Dive Center. The SS Matai – a 1916 sunken steam ship carrying a load of Model T cars - is a fantastic mojo-revving spot for snorkeling. When it comes to getting back to land, take a four-wheeler out to the scenic locales of Te Rua Manga or Wigmore's Waterfall.
the secrets
Deep in the Takitumu Conservation Area are acres of tropical rainforest where you can catch a glimpse of the endangered Kakerori bird. Stroll through the streets on a Sunday afternoon for the striking sounds of Maori hymns – the churches themselves dating back to as far as 1853. The sacred site of Arai-Te-Tonga is a koutu or royal court, once used for the inauguration of revered Maori chiefs. Historic villages offer the experience of coconut husking and fishing, while the deserted island Moturakau is cited for being the setting of the TV series ‘Shipwrecked'.
before you go
What to Expect
Rainy Season: November through April are very hot and humid (21-29°C/69-84°F). Strong rainfalls are common in the afternoons. Hurricanes are also more likely to occur during these months.
Dry Season: May through October are comfortable months. The temperature remains quite warm (18-29°C/64-84°F) and there is little precipitation.
Clothing
Casual and lightweight attire is acceptable. Certain attractions such as the churches prohibit entry to people wearing shorts or shirts that expose their shoulders. A light jacket may also be necessary in the evenings during the dry season.
Currency
The New Zealand Dollar along with some local coins only valid inside the country.
The Lingo
English and Cook Islands Maori
Documents
A valid passport
Local Delicacies
Ika mata: A popular meal consisting of raw fish that is flavoured with lime juice, coconut cream, tomatoes and onions.
Pawpaw salad: A tasty salad containing the locally grown pawpaw fruit that is similar to the papaya.
