cook islands


9


T


hey are one of the most appealing (and more unusual) honeymoon destinations but are just as seductive


as the ultimate in desert island escapes. Key draws include perfect beaches, rugged mountainous interiors, coral atolls, authentic Polynesian culture, snorkelling in crystal-clear lagoons and diving out beyond the reef. The Cooks are great for a two-centre trip, too, combined with New Zealand or Tahiti, Fiji or Samoa. This year is a particularly good time


to visit as there are major celebrations commemorating 50 years of independence for the islands, with concerts, sports events and cultural shows all on the agenda. “Yes, 2015 is a great year to visit the Cook Islands,” says Katie Warburton, Destination Manager at Austravel. “The biggest


celebrations will be happening between July 27 and August 7 with the national day on August 4. The whole community comes together to celebrate with fl oat parades, competitions and cultural performances. “Various ‘Island


beautiful lagoon on the planet. Climate control: Temperate, warm climate all year round. Little creatures: Unique wildlife – including an echo-locating swift that


lives in caves.


What’s new  Airlines: In early 2016 Air New Zealand


“Be sure to explore Rarotonga


by bus – it runs hourly and you can hop on and off at beaches, restaurants and cafés. Visit Muri’s night markets, too. They are held four times a week with local musicians, stalls of freshly- cooked local food and a


Days’ will take place, giving travellers a unique opportunity to try local delicacies and learn about the culture of each island.” However, it’s not just the middle of the


great atmosphere” ANNA SELBY, TRAVEL WRITER


(airnewzealand.co.uk) will put a Boeing 777 on the route between Los Angeles and Rarotonga (which will link to the fl ight leaving from Heathrow). It will feature a bigger Premium Economy cabin – which should further boost high-end tourism. Virgin Australia (virginaustralia.com) is now operating up to fi ve times a week between Auckland and Rarotonga. Using the 176-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft, the fl ight takes around four hours. Business class was introduced on the route on March 31 and features luxury leather seating, menus designed by resident head chef Luke Mangan, with premium Australian wines, beers and spirits served and comfort packs offered including luxurious blankets,


pillows and amenity kits with Australian


UK summer that will see celebrations as there will be events running throughout the year. Cook Islanders are renowned for their ability to throw a good party – and this year the festivities will be better than ever!


Perfect ten String of pearls: 15 beautiful islands scattered over an area the size of India. Postcard perfect: Pure white-coral sands, fringed with palm trees. Something fishy: abundant marine life and coral reefs. Going down: safe snorkelling and excellent diving. Rooms to spare: a wide range of hotels from fi ve-stars to hostels. Local flavours: Polynesian culture at Highland Paradise and on village streets. Get the vibe: the best dancers and musicians in the South Pacifi c with great


shows all over the islands. Blue lagoon: Aitutaki, the second of the Cook Islands has arguably the most


organic cosmetics by GROWN.  Accommodation: The new Nautilus Resort (nautilusresortrarotonga.com) opened on Rarotonga in April. The four-and-a-half-star elegant resort on Muri Beach – one of the most beautiful on the island – has a spa, water sports, beachfront restaurant and luxury accommodation, all with their own


Main picture: A palm tree lined island outside Aitutaki: paddle boarding the calm waters of the Cook Islands.


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