The Cook Islands (a paradise)

The Cook Islands are a Polynesian paradise consisting of fifteen islands scattered over some one million square miles of the Pacific Ocean. They lie at the center of the Polynesian Triangle of the South Pacific with Tonga and the Samoas to the west, and Tahiti to the east. They are in the same time zone as Hawaii and are the same distance south of the Equator as Hawaii is north. The Cook Islands are self-governed, but their benevolent big brother, New Zealand, watches over them and takes care of the mundane necessities of life—banking, post offices, medical facilities, communication, hotel managing, etc. The New Zealand dollar is the official currency and although Maori is the local language, everyone speaks English. The Kiwi laid back philosophy prevails throughout the islands.

Most of the Cook Islands population resides on Rarotonga, the main island. Its capital town of Avarua is the heart of the Cook Islands. Polynesian heritage is evident in the dance and drama performed at various events throughout the year, particularly during the Constitutional Celebration on August 4th. The people are simply lovely—warm, friendly and welcoming of island guests. The climate of the Cooks is pleasantly warm and sunny all year round. From April to November are the cooler and drier months, while November to March marks the warmer season with occasional tropical showers. Severe weather is very rare in the islands. The Cook Islands are a great stopover on the way to New Zealand or Australia or if you are island hopping around the South Pacific.

 

Crown Beach Resort, the newest 4-star property on the Cook Islands, is located on the sunset side of Rarotonga. Combining genuine island hospitality, gorgeous surroundings and excellent accommodations, the resort is an exclusive tropical getaway for divers, honeymooners and families. The resort`s gardens are beautifully kept, the lagoon safe to swim at any tide, and there is a large freshwater pool. Relax by the pool with drinks from the pool bar, have a game of beach volleyball, windsurf, kayak, rent a motorcycle and explore the island, or swim and snorkel in the lagoon. Golf is available nearby, and scuba diving is excellent here. For children there are escorted children`s activities, and baby-sitting can be arranged. The resort`s tour desk is able to organize village visits, island tours, game fishing, island treks, horseback riding and many other activities. And after a fabulous active day, enjoy a romantic dinner at the resort`s Windjammer