After my trip to Aitutaki, Air Rarotonga got me back here safe and sound, and as you can se on the left modelling the latest headgear - it smells lovely! Am here for a couple of nights and after almost 3 weeks in the Cook Islands, I am about to move on – next stop New Zealand. It’s been the relaxing time that I had planned – time to unpack the case for a few days at least, and take time to appreciate the beauty of the South Pacific. A few things to note for next time or for anyone else thinking of visiting here- be prepared:
· to slow down to Island time – nothing is done – or indeed needs to be done – in a hurry. A simple lunch of a sandwich and a coffee in town takes at least an hour – so sit back and enjoy!
· to bring your biggest credit card, Tahiti has always been known as the most expensive place; the Cook Islands is catching up and apparently is running a close second.
· to go back in time to the 1950’s where shopping is concerned. Not just the lack of shops, but the lack of choice! And no alcohol sold in the shops after 9pm or all day Sunday. The shops close at 12.30 on Sat and all day Sunday. We forget with the shopping hours at home how easy it is to get exactly what you want, when you want. If things run out here, there’s nothing to be done but wait 2 weeks for the next supply boat…. but in itself, that has a charm of its own.
· for rain – I know it’s wet season, but the amount of rain here was a surprise – I thought it would be showers with sun in between, but some of the time here it has been continuous. But on the upside, it’s always nice and warm and these weather patterns are unusual.
· to become a Christian! The Cook Islands, as a result, I suppose, of the missionaries, are strongly Christian. On Aitutaki at least, grace before meals was compulsory - before the Island Night buffet and the on board barbie, all were required to close eyes and bow heads as grace was said, and join in with the “Amen” at the end!
· to feel safe. As I travelled round the islands, it appears people leave their doors and windows wide open, even when no one’s at home. You can walk along in the dark quite happily, and everyone says a friendly “Kia Orana” (may you live long), the traditional Cook Island greeting as they walk or “scooter” by. Also there are no poisonous insects or snakes of any kind on any of the islands.
· to bring lots of mozzie repellent – they are quite persistent little things….
· to take trips to the other islands – there are a few more out there I need to come back to visit.
· to enjoy the spectacular sunsets, the amazing colours and warmth of the crystal clear water, the white sand, the peace and quiet. Kia Orana.
