Accomodation during Jan/Feb 2011 at Rarotonga, Aitutaki and Atiu

Hi,

I am going to spend 4 weeks in the Cook Islands (Rarotonga, Aitutaki and Atiu) from mid January to mid February 2011 and plan on staying at hostels and guesthouses. Can anyone tell me if i can just turn up and find accommodation or is it best to book in advance during this period?

Many thanks!

Mid January to mid February are considered off season in the Cook Islands and you should have little trouble with finding places to stay on the 3 islands you mentioned. You may want to take a looki at the web site www.ck which gives a broad range of places to stay. Atiu has a limited number of places to stay, but have few visitors at that time. Look into Air Rarotonga's limited flights between Aitutaki and Atiu, so that you will not have to return to Rarotonga between flights. There are several Backpackers/Hostel lodgings on Rarotonga. Aitutaki has several budget spots, Tom;s Beach Cottages and Matriki Beach Huts come to mind. Over on Atiu you could try Atiu Villas or Are Manuiri Guesthouse, Make swure to take advantage of the many tours offered on Atiu. Have a great trip!

Papa Mike
Papa Mike's Cook Islands Handbook

When entering the Cook Islands on a vistor's visa, you need to prove to the immigration authority that you have at least your first night's accommodation prebooked. If you are considering hostels or guesthouses, several on Raro include Aquarius opposite the airport (dorm style as well as ensuite rooms). Backpackers include Vara's in Muri (very popular), and Aremango and Aroko Bungalows both in Muri, Rarotonga backpackers in Arorangi (also popular), Ariana Bungalows in Tupapa, Tiare Village near town, and Central Motel in town. Plus there's a wide range of private rental homes for rent around Raro. Aitutaki: consider Amuri Guesthouse (this property receives good reviews) also Inano Beach, Rino's, Sunny Beach, Gina's Garden Lodges, Ranginui's, Paradise Cove and Maina Sunset.

On Atiu; Atiu Villas sits at the higher end for accommodation (lovely villas, onsite dining/bar and pool), as well as Are Manuiri, Kia Orana Bungalows, Kopeka lodge and Taparere Lodges. Air Rarotonga flies between Aitutaki and Aitu every Wednesday. Would pay to book this leg well before intended travel. I suggest that you review the www.ck website as well as www.aitutaki-accommodations.com and www.aitiu.info; and www.airrarotonga.com - to gain some idea about places to stay and the attractions you wish to enjoy etc. when visiting the Cook Islands.

Edited by: turou

Hi, thanks Papa Mike and Turou for your advise! I will, indeed, check out those web links and hostel recommendations. Thanks again!