| Why the Cook Islands are the perfect family destination
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The Cook Islands are a piece of paradise that will steal your family's heart. From sandy beaches to passionate locals, you will love it and your kids will too.
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Small islands with a lot of heart
Rarotonga is the main island in the Cook Islands, but don’t be fooled by its status; it is only a compact 32 kilometres in its circumference. Rarotonga is small enough to grow familiar with it, but packs a big punch, as it is brimming with life and culture. The Rarotonga bus will get your family acquainted with the sites, from beaches and lagoons to shops and churches. Only two buses run, aptly referred to as the anticlockwise and clockwise routes. Otherwise, if you’d like to control your own adventure, a scooter or car can be hired to venture out to secret swimming spots and secluded waterfalls. The other 14 islands include Aitutaki, Atiu, Mitiaro, Manihiki and more.
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Picturesque beaches
If you and your kids adore white sandy beaches and turquoise lagoons that seem like they
only exist in postcards, then welcome to paradise. Beaches on Rarotonga and the island of
Aitutaki are some of the most picturesque and tranquil beaches in the South Pacific. Take a lagoon tour where you’ll dive amongst the tropical fish and meander through coral creations as your kids strap on their snorkels. Crystal clear water means you can keep an eye on not only the fish under the surface, but your kids too.
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Sparkling culture
The Cook Islands are in free association with New Zealand, and embrace the warm and inviting modern Maori culture. Your family will be surrounded by happy faces at every turn. Make sure to get involved in one of the famous ‘Island Nights’ where you’ll witness the fusion of singing, dancing, culture and cuisine to create one memorable occasion. Another cultural event your family won’t want to miss is the Punanga Nui Cultural Market, open every day except Sunday. Here you’ll be able to embrace the live music performances sure to get the kids in a groove and a festival atmosphere to inspire you to purchase sarongs, jewellery and other souvenirs to show off back home.
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Fresh and flavoursome food
A strong part of any culture, is the food. Cook Islanders have big taste buds and your family won’t go hungry when visiting the islands. The islands are home to buzzing markets and roadside stalls for ample fresh fruit, juices and that much needed fix of a quick and easy home cooked meal. Being an island, seafood is justifiably a must eat also. With fantastically fresh platters and an array of seafood restaurants, your family will be spoiled for choice.
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Get lost in nature
The Cook Islands is the ultimate destination to escape from the hustle of busy life and take your family back to basics. Explore the caves of Atiu Island and embark on bushwalks through the lush jungle where you’ll hear the songs of the island birds. Wildlife and bird tours on Rarotonga are also on offer, and make sure to visit the Maire Nui Botanical gardens for a blossoming day out.
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