South Pacific Holidays Blog

10 of The Brisbane Times’ 20 Reasons for a South Pacific Holiday in the Cook Islands

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If you’ve visited the Cook Islands you certainly know that there are an endless list of reasons why you’d want to return. The Brisbane Times has recently printed an article listing Twenty Reasons to Visit the Cook Islands. Here are just 10 to whet your appetite for an unforgettable South Pacific holiday in this special spot:

1. Small Island, Big Smiles – Not only are Cook Island residents friendly and violent crime on the islands nearly non existent, but the main islands of Rarotonga and Aitutaki are relatively small and thus remarkably easy to navigate on your own.

2. Great Value – The currency used in the Cook Islands is the New Zealand dollar, which based on current exchanges rates is favourable for Australians looking to for a South Pacific holiday here. Exchange rates aside, the Cook Islands offers some great deals on everything from food to shopping in comparison to other similarly beautiful vacation spots.

3. Market Appeal - The Punanga Nui Cultural Market on Saturday mornings is a shouldn’t miss for those visiting the main island of Rarotonga.

4. The Life Aquatic – If you love the beach then The Brisbane Times is here to tell you that the Cook Islands are the perfect spot for a vacation: “The islands of Rarotonga and Aitutaki have some of the most picture-perfect white-sand beaches and tranquil swimming lagoons in the South Pacific, a region that knows a thing or two about iconic beaches. Scuba-dive or snorkel in the clear lagoons and come face-to-face with enormous turtles, colourful fish and unforgettable coral formations. The chest-high water is so clear you can see if your toenails need clipping.”

5. Polynesian History and Culture – Most Cook Island residents trace their history back to Tahiti’s Polynesians who settled the area around 1,400 years back. The history of the Cook Islands–from being a British protectorate to New Zealand rule and now independence–is rich, interesting, and will surely add to any South Pacific holiday in the area.

6. Friendly Faces - The newspaper is happy to report that the “warm face of modern Maori culture is on full display in the Cook Islands. Don’t be surprised to find yourself invited home for dinner with a local family or hearing local folklore from a grandmother selling pawpaw by the side of the road. For a more informal glimpse of the local traditions, have a beer with the locals on Friday and Saturday nights. Popular Avarua bars on Rarotonga include Whatever and Rehab. Cooks Lager is the local brew.”

7. The Food – As we recently reported, the Cook Islands is not only a paradise for beach lovers, but for foodies as well. Or, as The Brisbane Times describes it, “a small nation with big taste buds…eat your way around the markets and roadside stalls for a fix of home cooking and fresh fruit on the cheap, then scale it up with a memorable waterfront dinner at Tamarind House.” Another option suggested by the newspaper is the Progressive Dinner and Wine Tour.

8. Straight to Paradise - Flying into the Cook Islands from countries like Australia and New Zealand is relatively quick and painless, including six hour direct flights from Sydney. Not only does easy access make the most of your vacation time, but who wouldn’t want to get to their very own South Pacific idyll as quickly as possible?

9. Sunday Spirit – Attending church services during your South Pacific holiday in the Cook Islands is a special experience that will give you a real sense of what a vast majority of locals–reportedly more than 50%–do on their Sunday mornings. Tip: If it’s the first Sunday of the month then you’ll want to wear white.

10. Fishing Frenzy - If you’re a fishing aficionado then a South Pacific holiday to the Cook Islands is a perfect choice, especially in the Aitutaki lagoon.

You can check out The Brisbane Times article to find out the other reasons that round out their Top Twenty–including “island nights, luxe digs, and pearls.” Or, if you’re ready to start planning your South Pacific holiday to the Cook Islands, you can turn to BeautifulPacific.com for help including great tips and information, and amazing deals on all sorts of accommodation options!

What are your top reasons for visiting the Cook Islands? We’d love to know!

South Pacific Holiday News: Plantation Island Fiji is Named Second “Best Family Resort in the World”

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Fiji may be for lovers, but when it comes to South Pacific holidays in paradise, these islands are also amazing for families too. Some Fiji resorts are truly outstanding when it comes to catering to adults travelling with children, and are really great choices when planning your next family vacation. To that end, the Plantation Island Resort in Fiji’s Mamanuca island group was recently named the second “Best Family Resort in the World” by Out & About Kids magazine–coming second only to Disneyland. A pretty impressive feat by any standard and, many would agree, the setting of the Plantation Island Resort is really second to none. Fiji was also named as one of the best destinations for families in the same poll.

According to Australia’s Out & About Kids, Plantation Island was tipped as one of the best of international resorts for several reasons:

Plantation Island Resort was one of the original resorts established in Fiji’s beautiful Mamanuca Island group and, decades later, is as popular as ever with families. Nestled in a protected, tranquil lagoon fringed with coconut palms, soft sand and clear blue water as far as the eye can see, Plantation offers great accommodation in traditional bures or hotel-style rooms, a choice of dining experiences, kids club, supermarket and fun cultural evenings.

Spending a South Pacific holiday at the Plantation Island Resort means enjoying the beauty of Malolo LaiLai Island including a tranquil, sheltered lagoon and kilometres of pristine sandy beaches. For those who want to minimize travel hassles when getting around with kids, you’ll also be happy to know that this Fiji resort is located only 10 minutes by air from Nadi International Airport. Plantation Island also offers a range of leisure activities, water sports, adventure pursuits, and cultural opportunities to suit just about any family’s tastes and needs.

The Jet newspaper reports that this year’s poll was Out & About Kids‘ largest ever with 42 categories and over 500 nominations, according to The Jet. The newspaper goes on to report that Hannah Raffe, the Director of Sales and Marketing for the Raffles Group of Hotels & Resorts, was quite happy with Plantation Island’s placing:

“As a small island resort it is incredibly rewarding to have been nominated alongside some of the biggest and best established family destinations in the world,” Raffe said. “Given Disneyland’s huge international profile, this result is a huge achievement in its own right and really underlines the levels of service and the efforts all of us here at Plantation Island Resort go to every day in order to ensure our family guests have the very best holiday experience.”

If you’d like to see this Fiji resort for yourself, BeautifulFiji.com offers some great deals to allow families travelling on a South Pacific holiday to the Plantation Island Resort a more affordable experience. One option is to travel during the low season–April 1 to May 31, October 15 to December 24, and January 10 to March 31, 2014–to receive 20% off accommodation. There are also Stay 5/Pay 4 and Stay 7/Pay 5 specials (not available from November 24 to December 14) that include complimentary boat transfers from Nadi and two children per family under 12 eating and sharing a room for FREE. There is also a 7-Night Holiday Package (F$ 3,995 for 2 adults & 2 children Under 12 – select accommodation) that includes everything from a meet & greet at the airport and all meals included to free use of windsurfers, canoes, and snorkel equipment. Stay on certain dates and receive the same deal for even less – a very affordable way to experience one of the best family resorts in the world for yourself!

South Pacific Resort Focus: Reef Resort Vava’u, Tonga

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There are some places that are magical, that stay with you long after you’ve left. If you ask a past guest of Reef Resort in Vava’u, they’ll likely tell you that this South Pacific resort is just one of those places. Set in a secluded, beautiful spot you can have the feeling of having the run of the resort–with only four fales, that’s not that far off–while being welcomed like an old friend by the stellar staff. This Tonga resort also has the advantage of being far away from it all so you’re ensured a totally private and relaxing South Pacific holiday, but also close enough to the hub of this kingdom nation to facilitate shopping, transfers, and any sightseeing you may be interested in.

Indeed, you can fly into Vava’u and be at the Reef Resort within 30 to 40 minutes via car or boat. Located on Kapa Island in the Vava’u atoll this South Pacific resort is in an ideal spot for swimming with whales and snorkelling in crystal waters to sailing and game fishing. Of course, if you want to do nothing more than relax in your hammock or kick back with a late afternoon snack on your private deck, you can absolutely do that as well.

Accommodations - The antithesis of a sprawling mega resort, this South Pacific resort is all about privacy and attention to detail. With only four bungalows you just know you’ll never have to fight the maddening tourist crowds at dinner or at the lagoon, which is only a 10 minute walk from your perfectly appointed fale. Inside your bungalow you’ll find everything you need–from a spacious, comfortable bed to a modern bathroom–and outside you can enjoy your own private deck complete with loungers for gazing out to the lagoon beyond.

Food - The resort is run by Josef and Renate who boast culinary backgrounds from Switzerland and Germany (including working for Hilton Hotels and running their own restaurant with Gault & Millau), who ensure the ever changing menu at this Tonga resort is rife with delicious and contemporary Polynesian-European fusion dishes. Every day dishses are based on what is fresh, in season, and available at the local market.

As well as daily breakfast, lunch and three-course dinner you can also enjoy coffee and freshly baked cakes on the sundeck in the afternoon or a pre-dinner cocktail at the bar. Both places are great spots to lounge, enjoy your surroundings and mingle with other guests if you so choose. Expect personal preferences to be kept in mind and fresh seafood–including locally caught tuna, coral trout and lobster– and locally grown produce to be a mainstay on the menu at the Reef Resort. Meat and poultry is brought in from New Zealand.

Activities - Like many South Pacific resorts, the Reef Resort Vava’u offers a multitude of activities that guests can enjoy, although some are best experienced in this part of the world. One of those activities is whale watching, best done from July to November when humpbacks migrate to the waters around the resort to mate and give birth. Not only can you watch these magnificent creatures, but you can also join local tours to swim in those very same waters.

The areas around Vava’u also boast some amazing snorkeling in great spots like Japanese Gardens, which is not far off from the resort’s beach. Or perhaps you’d rather take a kayak to the Swallows Cave where you can snorkel and marvel as the sun’s rays play through holes in the cave ceiling. You can also opt for tours with operators like Dolphin Pacific Diving, Beluga Diving, or Dive Vava’u. If sailing is more your speed you can enjoy time on a crewed yacht or perhaps take a stroll through the ‘Ene’io Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a massage at this South Pacifc resort, go deep sea fishing, or take another of the great local tours on offer.

South Pacific Holiday Events: The Tahiti Pearl Regatta

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Every year regattas from St. Tropez to Tahiti draw sailing enthusiasts and water lovers looking to watch or participate in a great race. The Tahiti Pearl Regatta is a well loved course not only for the sport, but also for the festivities and cultural elements that surround the regatta. Not to mention the beauty of French Polynesia, which is really second to none and a great reason for a South Pacific holiday all on its own. This year the 10th Annual Tahiti Pearl Regatta is kicking off in Raiatea on May 7th with the event culminating on May 12, 2013. Organizers bill the Tahiti Pearl Regatta as a “great adventure, sports regatta, and a festive event,” one that is great fun if you’re visiting Tahiti in May.

The Tahiti Pearl Regatta was the brainchild of a group of friends and sailing enthusiasts who ten years ago, along with Mr. Henri Dejust, decided to hold a yearly event to celebrate sailing in some of the world’s most stunning lagoons. The Tahiti Pearl Regatta boasts that their race offers a “friendly and genuine atmosphere with Polynesian percussions; staging points in the middle of the south pacific ocean or in lagoons with bewitching colors…[where] every year, we offer to the participants a new sailing race, between Raiatea, the sacred island for each Polynesian islander (from Hawaii to New Zealand & Easter Island), Bora Bora the Pearl of the Pacific, Huahine and Taha’a.”

For those who want a South Pacific holiday that is more than just turquoise lagoons, beautiful Tahiti resorts, overwater bungalows, and relaxation (although who wouldn’t want that, we know!) the cultural festivities surrounding the Tahiti Pearl Regatta are a great addition to your French Polynesian experience. For those not involved in the race you can enjoy the kick off events, which are held in Raiatea’s Uturoa market and celebrate every night with those participating in the Regatta at different events and parties. These functions include everything from Polynesian and modern singing and dancing to barbeques and eating local delicacies. The mood surrounding the Tahiti Pearl Regatta and it’s events is generally one of friendliness, sportsmanship, and fun.

If it’s Regatta nitty gritty you’re interested in then here is a run down of some of the basics:

The Tahiti Pearl Regatta is open to sailing boats–from catamarans to private or charter ships–of any size.

Monohulls or Multihulls are the two race categories. These categories may be broken down into divisions depending on the number participating.

According to the event website explains the scoring system: “Within each category, registered boats will score in real time. At the end of the Regatta, the three best crews of both categories will mount the podium to receive the TPR Trophies.”

Sponsored crews can enter the Challenge Enterprises race.

The Trophée Henri Dejust is awarded to the fastest sailing canoe.

Sound exciting? Many definitely think so. If you’ll be in Tahiti this May then think of taking some time out to experience the Tahiti Pearl Regatta for yourself. Or check out BeautifulPacific.com to plan ahead and book a South Pacific holiday for this time next year so you won’t miss it! You can also check out the TPR website for a detailed day-to-day breakdown of Regatta activities.

Fiji Resort Focus: Koro Sun, Vanua Levu

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The Koro Sun Resort in Fiji is perhaps best known for featuring in the love story of Ashley and JP on the American dating show The Bachelorette, a program famed for its fantasy dates and romantic locations. While The Bachelorette and her chosen man have since married, many other couples have also flocked to this luxurious Fiji resort for a bit of Fiji magic to spice up their romance. Of course, the Koro Sun Resort is not just for relaxation or romance, indeed, it is also ideal for adventure travellers and families looking for a Fijian getaway.

The island of Vanua Levu is a gorgeous spot that boasts one of the world’s longest barrier reefs and som truly stunning scenery, not to mention a smattering of traditional Fijian villages that you can explore. Vanua Levu is also where you’ll find the town of Savusavu, which is known locally as “Hidden Paradise,” because of how laidback and unspoiled the atmosphere is. To reach Savusavu it is a one hour flight from Nadi and then about a twenty minute drive into lush Fijian beauty and a town populated with only about 3,500, both natives and ex-pats alike. A recent article in The New Zealand Herald by Sam Wicks reveals the beauty and otherworldly qualities of the Koro Sun Fiji Resort:

It’s a surreal feeling. As I brush my teeth I am looking through the glass-bottomed floor of an oceanside villa, into schools of multi-hued fish moving languidly. But Fiji – and, in particular, the island of Vanua Levu, which will be my home away from home for the next five days – is full of surreal moments. This is a place where nature is given free reign, and pretence has no place…

My introduction to the island is courtesy of a cocktail party at the mountain-top villa of Koro Sun Resort, my home for the next four days. Its owner and architect, Jack Young, is a former Peace Corp volunteer and Deadhead…His 65ha sanctuary is ringed by lush rainforest and specialises in adventure and rejuvenation.

Indeed, the vibe of this place is such that even Tony Robbins, self-help guru extraordinaire, has chosen this South Pacific spot to host retreats and “Life Mastery” events. We can’t think of a better location to inspire people. At Koro Sun, as well, you will have the feeling of having arrived in paradise and being welcomed by old friends.

Accommodation - Koro Sun Fiji Resort boasts twenty-nine bures, all well-appointed and air-conditioned, none with internet or telephone (however, these modern conveniences are available at the resort.) Choose between different categories of bungalows from the Pool Vale, Lighthouse Honeymoon Vale and the Streamside Family Villa to the Two Bedroom Ocean View Bure, Rainforest Villa, and Tree Top Honeymoon Bure. There is also a Two-Bedroom Raintree Bure, Ocean View Bures, and Edgewater Villas. Depending on the bure or vale of your choice you’ll get to enjoy unique elements from glass portions of floor so you can marvel at the aquatic life below to private dip pools and your very own treehouse hideaway.

Food - This Fiji resort has an all inclusive policy where food (if not all beverages) are concerned. That means you’ll be getting three gourmet meals a day including a made-to-order breakfast and a la carte dinner. Koro Sun’s main restaurant, Matakau, is also located in the resort’s central building. Cuisine is in the Pacific Rim style and utilizes fresh and local ingredients. Another gastronomic option at the resort is the Seaside Restaurant, which is open a couple of times a week and offers some truly amazing views. Not surprisingly this is the place to go if you want some fresh and delectable seafood.

Activities - Like many Fiji resorts, the activities at Koro Sun can be as many or as little as you like. Spend the day lazing in the sun if you so choose, or perhaps opt for a specialty banana leaf massage at the Rainforest Spa. Alternately, you can do some exploring of your exciting surroundings. Wicks writes of his experience:

Sensorial luxury aside, there’s plenty to explore on Savusavu. Bat Island, located within the fringing reef of the Koro lagoon, is spitting distance from my villa, and that’s the destination the following day…The local open-air market in the township is crammed with stalls heaving with mangoes, papaya and taro, and plenty of kava bars for a midday session. It’s a chance to stock up on local Fijian handicrafts, including masi, the traditional Fijian tapa cloth. You can really get a sense of the Indian influence there, with stores stocking Bollywood DVDs and Bhangra music blasting from shop fronts.

Other day trip options includes a drive into Vatulele village where you’ll be able to swim, dive, and explore waterfalls. A tip: Asking for permission from the village chief before swimming is required! Other possibilities include exploring the reef offshore from Koro Sun and golfing, or checking out Lotu Island Cave or the local botanical gardens. Wedding, honeymoons, and romantic getaways will also find their ideal setting at this Fiji resort.

BeautifulFiji.com offers some amazing deals at this Fiji resort including Stay 10 Nights /Pay for Only 8, and Stay 7/Pay 6. Special deals include 7 Night Honeymoon, Adventure, and Family Holiday Packages.

Photos: Koro Sun Resort; Waterfall Photo via NZ Herald

South Pacific Holiday Adventure: Tanna Island in Vanuatu

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To many the quintessential South Pacific holiday is often a Tahitian overwater bungalow or a stretch of impeccable Fiji sand splashed across a glossy magazine. The appeal of Vanuatu comes from a different angle. While there are still beaches and palms, beautiful lagoons and deserted islands, the real draw of Vanuatu is either totally getting away from it all or really experiencing some culture and adventure on your vacation. To that end, visiting the island of Tanna is a great option for some truly unforgettable South Pacific holiday experiences ranging from one of the world’s most accessible active volcano (Mount Yasur), jeep rides around the islands, and interacting with tribes in local villages for a really authentic impression of life in Vanuatu.

In a recent article in Total Travel, Greg Tarry talks not only of the relative accessibility of Vanuatu for Australians–four hours from Sydney to Port Vila–but also the beauty and excitement he found whilst on vacation there:

While the tropical heat is the first thing that hits you as you step off the plane, the realisation that you have left behind busy commutes, business meetings and fits of road rage soon settles in as you amble through the laid back international airport. It must be said that Vanuatu and its people are relaxed and the concept of island time, something that died decades ago in Australia, is alive and well on the island archipelago. For those looking to enjoy a Honeymoon or escape the rat race, Vanuatu’s collection of first-class coral reefs, resorts and restaurants would make an excellent choice.

And while there is always relaxation to be found on a Vanuatu holiday, Tarry like many others had made his trek to the South Pacific island in search of something else: a true adrenaline rush. Here three great options for adding some adventure while visiting Tanna island, a thirty minute flight from Port Vila, on your Vanuatu vacation:

Mount Yasur Volcano - The majesty of Mount Yasur has drawn travellers from far and wide hoping to catch one of the volcano’s dazzling displays of fiery explosions. Not only is visiting the active volcano quite a wonderful reason to take a South Pacific holiday, it is also usually the main reason people have for visiting Tanna itself. Tarry writes of his experience on Yasur:

Mount Yasur Volcano was to be our first taste and it did not disappoint…Locally trained guides ascend the Volcano’s cone in 4WDs, and then lead their tourist groups directly to the edge of the molten pit. From a viewing platform you look directly into the mouth of the angry beast. The sonic booms that are a precursor to a lava explosion are so powerful that I saw a German tourist, so startled by one blast, lose his footing and trip over a piece of hardened magma.

Keep in mind that the volcano, like any naturally occurring phenomenon, isn’t predictable. While most days Mount Yasur gives off some impressive explosions it is, at times, also dormant. When the volcano is rated from a 0 to a 2 it can be approached, a 3 means it is too volatile. If you want a truly stunning memory of your South Pacific holiday then take in the fiery displays of Yasur after the sun has gone down. If you’re staying at a Vanuatu resort in Tanna, the majority of tour operators offer trips to the volcano in 4WD vehicles. If a day trip to the island is more your speed keep in mind that the volcano is located about a two-hour drive from the local airstrip through rather bumpy and mountainous terrain.

Visit a Traditional Village - Kastom villages can be found throughout Tanna island and visiting them can be quite the experience for your South Pacific holiday. Not only do you get to meet and interact with the friendly locals, but you’ll also be able to learn about local customs and culture–and perhaps catch a dance show or two. In his Total Travel article, Greg Tanny talks about visiting a tribe in the mountains that had once practised cannibalism and still had their own black magic rites.

The Blue Cave - Dive off a cliff into the Coral Sea where, after free diving into a dark hole, you’ll come out the other side in the beautiful waters of a spot that locals have dubbed The Blue Cave, or as Tarry describes it, “a stunning cavern that was being lit by a shaft of sunlight filtering through an overhead cavity.”

If you’d like to spend a night or two on Tanna island during your South Pacific holiday there are several Vanuatu properties that we can recommend including White Grass Resort, Tanna Evergreen Resort, and Sunrise Bungalows. Visit BeautifulVanuatu.com for more information and help on planning your ideal vacation!

Cook Islands Resort Focus: Pacific Resort Aitutaki

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The Pacific Resort Aitutaki, sister property to the similarly named Pacific Resort Rarotonga, is one of those places meant for getting away from it all. Kick back in a bungalow, suite, or villa while enjoying the sun, sand, and exceptional service on your South Pacific holiday at this luxurious Cook Islands resort. The Pacific Resort Aitutaki is situated on a rocky section of land that straddles two beautiful beaches on the stunning Aitutaki lagoon. This is a boutique resort that marries modern amenities with a colonial feel, offering many activities while making one feel like they have truly managed to escape it all.

Travel writers Dennis and Rosamund Knill recently wrote about their experience at this Cook Islands resort in The Otago Daily Times:

As our flight nears its destination, we sight a mere dot in the ocean, seemingly in the middle of nowhere. But it is a lush, appealing nowhere with a stunning lagoon that is pure luminescence. It is a place of unsurpassed beauty and tranquillity, a place to soothe away the pressures of the outside world. Stepping off the aircraft we can feel the stress drop like coconuts from a tree. We are on Aitutaki.

Along a palm-fringed white sandy beach lies the Pacific Resort, a five-star hotel with a celebrated restaurant. The villas are in keeping with the architectural style of the island, so well integrated into the landscape that you would think they have sprouted from the ground below. They offer luxury, privacy and ambience with every creature comfort.

The Knills go on to extoll not only the virtues of Aitutaki, but of the Pacific Resort itself including its popular open air restaurant called Rapae.

Accommodation: At this Cook Islands resort the accommodation is broken up into four categories that consist of Premium Beachfront Bungalows, Ultimate Beachfront Bungalows, Ultimate Beachfront Villas, and Ultimate Beachfront Suites. Rooms are decorated in traditional styles, but come with completely modern touches from spotless bathrooms to air conditioning, large comfortable beds to flat screen TVs.

Food: Rapae is the Pacific Resort Aitutaki’s famous restaurant where you can dine al fresco overlooking the water. Not surprisingly the menu is rife with traditional dishes and chef Afifud Dean is keen on using local produce and products when possible.

If you’d like something other than the traditional a la carte dining experience, then this Cook Islands resort has other options as well including the beachfront Black Rock Bar, and island theme nights complete with feasts and cultural entertainment to dinners for two on the beach with only the light of the moon–and flickering candles–to illuminate the delicious cuisine.

Activities: Like many high-end resorts the Pacific Resort Aitutaki prides itself on providing an array of activities for guests. While you can certainly choose to do no more than to lounge in the sand or by the pool, you can also opt for various water activities or excursions like day trips to deserted islands that include snorkelling and a BBQ lunch. Enjoy the spa, go fishing, or explore Aitutaki on a rented moped, it’s really up to you.

This South Pacific resort is also an ideal spot for romantic getaways, honeymoons, destination weddings and vow renewals.

BeautifulCookIslands.com offers some great specials to this Cook Islands resort including a Honeymoon Special and great free extras like return airport transfers from Aitutaki Airport to the resort, daily fully cooked breakfast, and free use of snorkel gear and kayaks!

South Pacific Holiday News: The Daily Meal Calls the Cook Islands a “Food Lover’s Paradise”

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Travellers flock to the fifteen islands that make up the Cook Islands for different types of South Pacific holidays. From family getaways to romantic breaks and honeymoons, adventure trips for divers to pure relaxation for sun worshippers. What many may not consider is the culture that can be found in this idyllic place, including some delicious food choices. In fact, the Cook Islands are gaining quite the reputation as an ideal holiday destination for foodies and those looking to expand their culinary horizons. And when exploring the quiet Cook Islands, relatively untouched by large chain hotels or massive tourism, don’t forget to try the drinks either! From the local beer to iced coffee and kava, each one is an experience in and of itself that will quite likely afford you many happy memories of your South Pacific holiday to the Cook Islands.

One person who discovered the unique elements and delicious food in the Cook Islands was Pam Grout, who recently wrote an article for The Daily Meal all about her own South Pacific holiday. Grout recounts:

The Cook Islands have a grand total of 10,9000 people. That’s smaller than many Podunk towns I’ve visited and let me just say, I didn’t go to those rural getaways for the food. Most small towns, at least the ones in my state of Kansas, are lucky if they have a diner selling greasy burgers. So you can imagine my surprise when I found out that Cook Islands cuisine is, quite seriously, exceptional. In fact, I would happily include it on my Top Ten List of International Food Destinations…the food on those 15 tiny spits of land set out over 756,000-square-miles of South Pacific, most of which is protected as a marine park, is truly (and I don’t say this lightly) remarkable.

Naming a relatively small and sparsely populated place like the Cook Islands to a personal Top Ten List of International Food Destinations is quite high praise, indeed. Grout goes on to recommend three of her “bucket list” Cook Island foodie experiences that you may want to try if you’re heading to the islands for a South Pacific holiday of your own!

A Kai Kai on Aitutaki – The first thing most people notice when visiting Aitutaki, the smaller of the Cook Islands’ main islands, is just how gorgeous the place is–especially the beautiful lagoon. Of course, there is a lot of other things that Aitutaki has to offer including kai kais or feasts. Grout recommends sitting down to a chef prepared meal at Pacific Resort Aitutaki or, alternately, if you’re heading to the deserted One Foot Island you may want to chow down there too.

The Plantation House - Getting a seat at The Plantation House is often quite a bit more complicated than actually enjoying dinner once you’re there. This Cook Islands restaurant is generally only open a day or two a week, starting at 5pm. You can tour the colonial house, which dates back to the 1850s, and the surrounding plantation before enjoying a three-course al fresco dining experience that includes seasonal local dishes like pork curry with coconut, fresh fish wrapped in banana leaves, or green pawpaw salad.

Te Punanga Nui Market - Visit the market on Saturday to sample local Rarotongan produce and indulge in a bit of South Pacific holiday shopping too.

Photos: thetravelbugtv.com, stephanhertig.com, Pacific Resorts Atitutaki

Australians Can Get a Taste of a South Pacific Holiday in the Cook Islands at Cultural Showcase

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Ever wonder what it would be like to travel to some exotic locale, but not sure if you’ll like what you find if you get there? Have you poured over countless photos, websites, and travel brochures, only to be left confused as to where, exactly, you want to travel to first? Well, if the Cook Islands is one of the places you’d like to cross off your list and you happen to be in Sydney, Australia on the weekend of May 4, 2013, you’re in luck! The Cook Islands Cultural Showcase being held at the National Maritime Museum at Darling Harbour will allow you to get a taste of a South Pacific holiday in this beautiful place without ever leaving Australia.

The all-day event is not only packed with shows and cultural elements, but it’s also totally free for those who would like to experience a bit of the Cook Islands. Cultural shows can be see from 11am to 3pm, and the extravaganzas include drummers and dancers from the Cook Islands, not to mention cooking lessons and, more importantly, food tastings. Ever wanted to learn how to tie a sarong in traditional Cook Islands fashion? There will be tutorials that will teach you to tie your pareu just so, ensuring you’ll be set when you embark on your own Cook Islands holiday. You can also learn about Polynesian and Cook Island Maoris famous traditional tattoos, as well as how to make traditional floral head garlands.

The Cultural Showcase will also give you a chance to interact with some Cook Islands locals, likely providing you with a glimpse of just what friendly, welcoming people will be waiting for you if you decide on a South Pacific vacation in this safe and homey spot. You can also check out Te Tika, the Cook Islands’ new line of skincare products, and you just might be the lucky one who will win a trip to one of the 15 islands. If you don’t happen to win your South Pacific holiday you can always contact BeautifulPacific.com and we’ll be happy to help you plan one that fits with your needs and budget.

As TotalTravel outlines, the Cook Islands is easily accessible from both Australia and New Zealand, with Air New Zealand flying “direct from Sydney to Rarotonga, the capital of the Cook Islands, every Saturday in under six hours.” And where, exactly, will you be headed? Islands ”located across a vast swathe of the Pacific Ocean in the Polynesian triangle, to the west of Tahiti…a nation of 15 islands and just 17,000 people as well as some of the world’s best beaches and lagoons. Rarotonga (number 3) and Aitutaki (number 5) were both voted among the Top South Pacific Islands in TripAdvisor’s 2013 Travelers’ Choice Awards.” It doesn’t get much better than that, does it?

Indeed, a South Pacific holiday in the laid back Cook Islands can be just about anything you want it to be from relaxing to adventurous, romantic to fun for the whole family. And the Cook Islands resorts that can be found from Rarotonga to Aitutaki can serve just about any taste, requirement, or budget.

Photos via michaelandersongallery.com and tuatuamai.co.nz

Awards and a Reopening at the Likuliku Lagoon Resort in Fiji

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When it comes to South Pacific resorts there are many that truly take your breath away, not only for the beauty of their location, but because of the genius of their designs. Add to that quiet luxuries that range from truly well trained staff to amenities that take into account any possible desire and a South Pacific holiday can really be one of luxury and indulgence if the right resort is chosen. To that end, when it comes to Fiji resorts the Likuliku Lagoon Resort is consistently named as one of the best out there, a perfect place for couples to escape to for some romance and relaxation. Not only is Likuliku the only Fiji resort that boasts over water bungalows–a mainstay when it comes to resorts in Tahiti–but it is also one of those places that can’t help but rack up awards and accolades.

Indeed, this Fiji resort has been the recipient of many awards, among them being named to USA Islands magazine’s list of Top 20 World’s Greatest Escapes. The magazine tells of how visitors are charmed by Likuliku upon arrival:

Nobody is taking pictures. The gasps have vanished. Our boat has steadied. Husbands and wives who once stood for a better view, leaned for a better photo, now sit beside one another, hands interlaced, cameras forgotten.

A group of Fijians is singing to us. They stand on an arrival dock perched on a tiny island nestled in a lagoon. A few of the men wear grass skirts. All of them sing with reminders of a church choir, exuding warmth that carries an unspoken edict: This welcome is best shared with two eyes, two ears and someone you love.

Recently, Likuliku was also named Best Luxury Accommodation in the AON Fiji Tourism Awards for Excellence, and was also named a 2012 Gold List Winner for Best Overseas Resort by Australia’s Luxury Travel Magazine. ”We are delighted to be recognised once again on a local level by our industry peers,” Steve Anstey, Group GM of Likuliku, said after the AON Fiji Tourism win. ”Being a 100% Fijian-owned resort with strong ties to l and country, we are particularly proud to receive this award given our mandate to guests who visit Likuliku experience quintessential Fiji in all its forms.” For those who have visited this South Pacific resort, it’s not hard to see why Likuliku is a favorite amongst guests and judges alike. From the extreme beauty of the setting to the warmth of the staff, this is one Fiji resort where luxury and comfort are always on the menu.

Unfortunately, Likuliku sustained damaged during the recent Cyclone Evan, but is happily set to reopen its doors later this month, on April 21. You can book now for a future romantic getaway, choosing between accommodation that ranges from the fabled overwater bures to deluxe beachfront and beachfront bures. Keep in mind that while the overwater bures at this South Pacific resort definitely promote privacy and romance they are also quite a walk from the center of the resort and are only really recommended for couples who are generally fit.