Cook Islands Dos and Don'ts

Atiu is a small Island in the South of the Cook Islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is quiet and picturesque with large coffee and taro plantations. Atiu has some really cool caves that are covered in Makatea (hardended coral) which are good to visit - although wear sturdy shoes as the makatea is very sharp! The locals are very friendly and hospitable and are pleased to show visitors their island. Often their is dancing and druming on the weekends and processions from church which are nice to see. They also have lots of Umus, where men sit around drinking home brew out of coconut shells - similar to kava ceremonies in Fiji. I was invited to one and sat for hours chatting with the locals and sharing their beer, it was only when I stood up I realised how drunk I was! I ended up passed out in bed by 7.30, not to shabby!

the best way around to explore th island is to hire a moped, go to the police station to get your local license

Rarotonga and the Cook Islands must have been the most beautiful place I've been to. It's hard to get to from Euope, but so worth. Gladly, the two times I've been there the tourists haven't discovered this place that much yet. I recommend to either take the bus to get around... they circle the island in both directions every half hour and the drivers are very nice and some very handsome and flirtatious. Or you get a scooter/moped license at the police station and hire one. It's great fun to get the license! Most tourist hit Muri beach, but there's a jewel of a beach on the soutside just in the front the Raina Beach apartments. Friday night is the big night out! Everyone on the island goes out that night... My favourite place was the Staircase, a mad bar with mad beautiful people... you're never short of a partner to dance with! It'll be hard for us Westerners to keep up with their moves though! Also, the Cook Islanders are very open to gay/lesbian travellers. There are a few openly living transsexuals on the island. Very friendly these islanders and great to chat to. Enjoy!

Use the bus, cheap, efficient and a great way to see the island!

Make sure you stay more than 5 days. The weather is pretty unpredictable!  Don't stay at the main island, take a trip to the smaller islands, it's a once in a lifetime upportunaty!