Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020 |

# Raratonga Country forums / Pacific Islands & Papua New Guinea
davenclairertw 21:07 UTC 17 Jun 2007 | Hi, Me and my girlfriend are planning a rtw trip, out planned route currently includes 2 weeks landing in rartonga. We have only really added this destination cause we've seen amazing photos of the islands and they look as close to a beach paradise as possible. However since planning the route we have hear mixed reports about them - mainly due to price. Could soebody confirm a little a bit of general info about the Cook islands, we are after any tidbits of info at the moment regarding Prices best sights to see accesibility to the other islands (landing in raratonga) weather (will be there Noc/Dec) backpacker friendly (ie cheap hostels etc) Anything else at all to get us started on a bit of research, Thanks |
silvanocat 22:21 UTC 17 Jun 2007 | I would start by reading the FAQ and previous posts in this branch. | 1
shully 23:41 UTC 17 Jun 2007 | Hi davenclaire: The Cook Islands are a beautiful beachy destination. Rarotonga is quite friendly when it comes to hostels...I would suggest Vara's as it is on Muri Beach (the very best beach for swimming on Raro). A bit of action there, close to shops and a few places to eat. The best sights to see are the lagoon, the cross island Trek with Pa, snorkeling along Titikaveka, the saturday market for lots of good eats cheap, and an overall relaxed affordable destination. Most people who visit Rarotonga also make their way out to Aitutaki to see the spectacular lagoon. It is a 40 minute plane ride and worth every single penny. There are a wide variety of place to stay out there as well. The lagoon tours offer a glimpse of the fanastic azure blue waters and great snorkeling. As silvanocat suggests, you may wish to read the FAQ and previous posts regarding this island chain. I am sure you will enjoy the Cooks! sunny regards, shully | 2
raro 04:25 UTC 18 Jun 2007 | To add to the above---it will be hot and humid in December. Also check out Aremango Guesthouse, at Muri, and Papa Rau's Guesthouse, south coast. | 3
jeaniej 10:42 UTC 18 Jun 2007 | And prices (as per Shully's suggestions): Daytrip to Aitutaki (includes flights lagoon cruise lunch): $399 - flights only are slightly cheaper. Aitutaki is the most serviced island, however there are flights to several other islands. Check out the island packages at Jetsave travel or flights only at Air Rarotonga Cross island trek with Pa : approx $50 Snorkelling: free if you have your own gear! Hostel prices start at approx $25 each per dorm bed | 4