The Cook Islands to Bora Bora.

Aloha,

Next July I'm going away traveling for four months to Australia, New Zealand, The Cook Islands, Bora Bora, Hawaii, America and ending up in Alaska.

I've started planning my trip but would like more infomation on The Cook Islands, Bora Bora and Hawaii. I will be traveling solo and will be staying in guest houses and hostels.

I'm taking £6,000 with me for the whole four months so will be on a tight budget. Where are the best places to stay on a budget in The Cook Islands and on Bora Bora. Any guest house recomendations on Bora Bora? I've seen a few but want to shop around first.

Any other information about these places would would be fabby!

Thank you,

Hayley

I've lived in Alaska and have been to all the places you intend to visit except Bora Bora.

I recommend you consider reversing the order of travel. Alaska is not visitor friendly in October.

Hello Hayley,

For the Cook Islands, Aremango guesthouse on Rarotonga has a very good reputation. On Aitutaki, Amuri Guesthouse is wonderful. There are cheaper accommodation options on both islands, and it depends on how basic you are prepared to stay at/pay the price for. Backpackers International is possibly the lowest priced hostel on Rarotonga. On Aitutaki, Josie's Beach-house in Ootu is cheap and is in a great location..

During July, Air Tahiti/code-shared with Air Rarotonga has 2 return flights between Papeete and Rarotonga. Daily flights between Auckland and Rarotonga. Book early for your travel to the South Pacific to avoid peak season fares (includes July).

Thank you very much Lagoon for the above. How long do you think I should spend on the Cook Islands and Bora Bora?

Is your budget intended to include flights? How about activities--tours, boats, performances. Buses, trains and other local transport? Are you highly accomplished at traveling cheaply?

I've been only to Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, "America," and Alaska. I'd bring more money to each of the above, at least in the form of an emergency slush fund.

#1's advice about reversing direction is worth taking seriously. The latest you probably want to be in Alaska is mid-September.

Hope that's helpful.

Mark