Aiutaki and rarotonga for xmas

Hi all,

I am planning to go to the Cook Islands for Xmas for 2 weeks. Would love a beach front bungalow (doesn't have to be fancy) for myself and boyfriend.
Couple of questions.

1. Is is massively overcrowded at Xmas?
2. Which island would you recommend for beauty and relaxing by the sea + snorkelling.
3. Know any cheapish ways of getting there as the flights I am looking at seem incredibly expensiove.

I hear you can stay on an island where you get brought supplies for the week and are pretty much secluded. experiences from other travellers would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

Not crowded at all. Most seats on the flights from NZ are taken up by returning CIers living in NZ, so most places are only half full, tourists can't get seats to the Cooks. some restaurants even close down for a few weeks, it is so slow for tourists.

Flights are what you read about, no bargains uless listed on their websites.

The being dropped on an islet is in the lagoon on Aitutaki.

both Rarotonga and Aitutaki are good choices, I'd do both if you are in the Cooks for two weeks.

See more info on the FAQ's at the top of this branch.

Depending on what you're price range is, I would suggest staying at the Pacific Resort! It's located on some of the best snorkling areas and is really beautiful. You can also rent kayaks there. Christmas is definitely going to be one of the busiest time of year, so you'll probably want to book ASAP! (besides summer!) You may want to also spend a week in Aitutaki! It's an absolute paradise!

Christmas will be busy at Muri Beach???? bksrocks, that is hard to believe, hasn't happened in the past 20 years!!! where are you getting your info from?? Or did John put you up to these posts, just to drum up business for Pacific Resort??!!!