We will be heading to the cook islands this October and would sure appreciate some input on where to stay. We like the idea of staying on Muri Beach as we love snorkeling. We also would prefer a place where we could prepare our own meals. We have heard through travel talk that there have been a few instances where tourists have run into troubles when booking online directly with the rental management. if anyone has any feedback we would appreciate it!

Try a place called Reflections.

They have a website or can be found on most of the Cook Island hotel sites. They do have kitchen facilities, but note that their prices are on the high end.

A previous poster (you'll have to do a "search" on this fodors.com site for Reflections to find the exact post) mentioned that they were very pleased with the accommodations and the owners of the property.

There has been quite a lot of discussion about accomodation at Raratonga on this site just recently.
As the previous poster suggests do a Search at the top of the page and I am sure you will find a lot of good information.

Booked a great house (the "Main-Islander on the Beach&quot through Jetsave (http://www.jetsave.co.ck/) on Raro and hand no problems though I've heard a few other folks have (I think the majority of people had decent experiences with them however).

Photos of the rental houses & resort we've stayed at or visited:

http://community.webshots.com/album/37835528PFgzCz

Enjoy the Cooks and try not to worry too much. Most rental deals are entirely on the up and up.
Ken

I would think you would do alright with Raro Reality (http://www.rarorealty.co.ck/index.htm), or Islandhopper (http://www.islandhoppervacations.com/home/welcome.aspx).

The Are Renga Motel rents rooms with kitchenettes very inexpensively. It's on the opposite side of the island from Muri Beach, but the island is small and you can rent a motorbike for a few dollars and enjoy all the freedom of movement it provides.

Thank you all so much for all of your suggestions. It is so fabulous to be able read your views on the Cook Islands. This has all been such a great help. Now to make a decision. We will certainly share our trip when we return (it seems like such a long way off) Until then be well!!!!!!!!