13 ways to slow down in this tropical destination

A Hammock hanging from palm trees, the shade of Coconut Palms beside a perfect turquoise lagoon beach ocean on a paradise vacation

All destinations serve a purpose to stand for some type of experience on a holiday.

For the Cook Islands in the South Pacific it’s about testing one’s ability to relax, chill-out, and absorb the gentle rhythm and laid back lifestyle of island life.

So if this sounds like the kind of getaway you’re lusting after, these top 13 ways the Cook Islands will help slow you down might send you packing – and booking flights!

Check out the ways the Cook Islands will slow you down:

1. The gateway island of Rarotonga has speed limits ranging from only 40km/h to a maximum of 50km/h

2. There are no traffic lights on the entire island

3. Rarotonga has two public buses taking guests around the island, titled – Clockwise and Anti-Clockwise

4. Rarotonga is encircled by a 32 kilometre coastal road, known as the Ara Tapu (Sacred Road). It is surrounded by a crystal clear lagoon, on which many resorts are located

5. All beaches are public, and visitors are welcome to pick their own piece of paradise and snorkel, swim, stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or take a glass bottom boat tour

6. Inland is a second road, the Ara Metua (Ancient Road). Built in the 11th, century winding through pastoral farmland, taro plantations and homesteads in the foothills of Rarotonga’s mountain region, the Ancient Road encourages visitors to stop and enjoy the culture and meet the locals

7. Rarotonga’s rugged mountain region can be crossed only on foot. The track starts in Avatiu Valley and ends at Papua Waterfall in Vaima’anga, the ideal spot for a refreshing swim

8. Roadside stalls are spread far and wide with fresh nu (coconut), as well as star fruit, mangoes, watermelon, and pineapple all served for a few dollars with a warm local smile

9. Meals are affordable with alcoholic beverages starting as low as $3.50 on Rarotonga, unlike other island resorts where food and beverages are renowned to sting the wallet once you get there

10. Aitutaki is a 45-minute flight from Rarotonga and has been described as having the most beautiful lagoon in the world. There are several lagoon tours to choose from with countless varieties of brilliantly coloured tropical fish and marine life

11. Water taxis can take you to an uninhabited island for a picnic for the day or to watch the sunset

12. Locals enjoy telling intriguing and historical stories of their Polynesian culture

13. Un-wind with sunrise yoga or one of the many spa and salons across the islands

Advertise with us

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

cook islands