Fiji v Cook Islands

Hi all,

Which one??

My boyfriend and I are debating whether to stop off for 1 week in Fiji or the Cook Islands on our way back to London. This will be our first time in that part of the World and we're looking for a mix of culture and R&R.
A mixture of exploration and water activities, great sunsets and stunning beaches is what I'm after.

We've not got a huge budget. Does anyone know which destination will make our money go further?

Any recommendations from those of you who have tread these Islands before?

Thanks in advance!

im unsure of the Cooks not having been there, but I can def vouch for the beautiful Yasawa Island group a few hours boat ride north of Nadi and the mainland. these def have all you are after, ive been there many times over the years and just luv it. you can island hop each few days to add to the fun. enjoy!

No help with Cook Islands, but if you want to avoid high costs in Fiji, I'd stay away from Denarau Island. It's basically a resort island of 4-5 star hotels. You eat at hotel type restaurants, or at the Port but it's all very touristy priced.

I have visited and enjoyed both.

If you want to get to one place and stop there, then Rarotonga, the main island in the Cooks, is a good bet (the beaches are much lovelier than those on Viti Levu, the main island in Fiji). Best area is around Muri Beach- possibly Varas. The beach is the best on Raro, and surprisingly peaceful. Kayak hire, lagoon cruises and windsurfing on the lagoon if you want active stuff, ok snorkelling and little motus (islets) which you can wade or kayak to (also some great snorkelling not too far away at Fruits of Rarotonga, a cafe with a great reef). Hire scooters or a car to explore the island. There are takeaways, bakeries and dairies, a few small restaurants, and buses into town for supermarkets.

If you want to island hop, the Cooks are very expensive (air fares are high). Thurston's suggestion of the Yasawas in Fiji is a good one, with a range of accommodation on various islands. The Yasawa flyer acts as a ferry service, going up and back each day. Octopus on Waya is a fantastic resort, great food, activities and sunsets, also a good dive shop. Manta Ray varies between peaceful and party island but has by far the best snorkelling I found in the Yasawas. Get one of the beach huts- basic but inexpensive and quiet with great views of the sea. There is a short and easy walk over the island to Sunset beach (5-10 minutes). Seaspray, on Nanuya Lailai, is very basic and rustic but extremely friendly. Walk over the island to the blue lagoon for snorkelling, kayaking, and a great dive shop (West Side Watersports).

The people in both nations are great, very friendly and welcoming, if you are friendly and show an interest. You'll have a great time, whichever you choose!

If you want to visit more than just one island, it has to be Fiji.
Much more opportunities for cheap island-hopping (especially by boat) and in general cheaper than the Cooks, too.

If you only have a week, I'd pick the Cooks, and just stay on Rarotonga, unless you can afford the day trip to Aitutaki.

Fiji has a lot more islands to see, but you'd need a couple of weeks to really get off Viti Levu. Very few good beaches on Viti Levua.

Rarotonga is compact, relatively inexpensive if you find a cheap place to stay. Several decent backpacker and small moderate places to pick from.