jeanine

I am looking to go to the Cook Islands In Feburary. Can you tell me which Islands to visit, where to stay, should I book with a comapny for hotels or can I do this on my own? How expensive is this area?<BR><BR>

ALF

We love the Cook Islands. Rarotonga is the main island with most of the tourist amenitites. There are quite a few choices for hotels, none of which are large or from the 'chains'. You can book them yourselves, but commonly an air/hotel package can save you money. I would suggest a place on the west/northwest coast, north of Muri Lagoon. We usually stay in mid-priced cabins, and don't know much about specific hotels. <BR><BR>Overall, the Cooks are cheaper than Hawaii, much cheaper than French Poly, a bit more expensive when compared to Fiji or Tonga.<BR><BR>You should also definitely fly over to Aitutaki, which has to be one of the most spectacularly beautiful islands in the Pacific; a central mountainous island surrounded by a coral atoll ring and a lagoon. The other outer islands are much less 'touristy', which is a good or bad thing, depending on what you are looking for. If you want to really get away, you could go to Atiu, which only has a couple of small lodges, not paved roads, virtually no cars, and you will probably be able to count the tourists with your hands.

jamikins

We went last year and stayed at Palm Grove....it has one of the nicest beaches on Rarotonga

LordBalfor

Another vote for the Cooks. We prefer the south shore (near the Palm Grove was very nice indeed). A great vacation destination, reasonably priced. Often compared to &quot;the way Hawaii was 50 years ago&quot;. No high-rises, no stop lights in the entire country. Been to both Rarotonga and Aitutaki. Loved both. Raro is rather like the north shore of Kauai. We hope to return next year.<BR><BR>Photos:<BR>http://community.webshots.com/user/lordbalfor

RhondaZ

LordBalfour great photos! Thanks.