| Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020 | ![]() |
Recommendations for a relaxing solo holiday locationCountry forums / Pacific Islands & Papua New Guinea | ||
I plan on visiting one of the Pacific Islands later this year for a couple of weeks and am trying to decide which one. I would like a place that is not too busy (not keen on big resorts), but not too complicated or expensive to get to from Australia. I would prefer a place on the beach, for swimming and possibly snorkelling, but near a village/town or two that I can visit too. Not too worried about stuff like hiking (though if there are nice walks that'd be a bonus) or adventure sports. Ideally a place that is somewhat social, but not a party place. Basically, with the research I have done so far, I am struggling to find a reasonably affordable place (up to AUD $100 per night) that suits solo travelers but is not too backpackery. I've seen places that look great, but seem more suited to couples - I definitely don't want to be the singleton in a resort chock full of honeymooners! Everything I have come across seems to be one extreme or the other. So far, I'm weighing up between the Cooks, Samoa, Tonga or Fiji, but am open to other suggestions. Does what I want exist or is it just wishful thinking? Any suggestions would be appreciated. | ||
Tr the Western Province of Solomon Islands. Fatboys has rates from about $112AU a night. This one and this eco-resort are both considerably less. | 1 | |
Rarotonga in the Cook Islands is fairly close to your wish-list. While it is now becoming popular as a tropical island to visit, there are still plenty of tranquil havens that aren't beyond your budget. There is a weekly direct flight between Sydney and Rarotonga. Virgin and Air NZ also have regular schedules that fly via NZ. Have you looked at Mount View Lodges; M & M Studio; Aroanui Cottages; Enu Studio; Maiana Beach Bungalows? Rarotonga retains a sociable atmosphere, since this is part of the island culture anyway. There are party spots in town at the night-clubs, which are carefully monitored by traditional leaders and authorities. The villages are more low-key places yet there are good facilities both in the main township, Avarua, but also the villages have stores and ATMs, along with cafes and local scenic attractions. The bus service is great for a small island. You'll meet people easily, with the majority of Cook Islanders speaking english. The beaches are nowhere crowded, although Muri beach does become a magnet if there is a water-sports event on there - but it's always lots of fun to get amongst the action for a couple of hours. Cook Islanders really enjoy life, it's inherent in their singing, rhythmical dancing, sports and social events. | 2 | |