For a couple of nights during my Cook Islands Idyll I enjoyed the chilled out serenity of the tiny atoll of Aitutaki.
Getting to Aitutaki was easy enough via the daily hop from Rarotonga with Air Rarotonga (airraro.com). Leaving was a toughie. That’s not because of any problems with the airline or hitches in my schedule though, but simply because the opportunity to explore (and lounge around) paradise wasn’t something I wanted to give up so soon after arriving there.
The island really was an ideal place for a vacation. The activities I booked were awesome and engaging. Food was delicious and homey. Beachside accommodations were plush and quiet. Everyone one I met was super friendly and welcoming.
Best bits of two-night visit are as follows:
Punarei Cultural Tour
Moments after checking in at my resort, I was whisked away for a tour of the island with Punarei Cultural Tours and a stop at Punarei Cultural Village. On hand for the occasion was Ngaakitai Pureariki, the founder of the tours and the village. Ngakitai created Punarei not only to share his heritage with tourists visiting from across the globe but also to promote interest in local culture among the people of Aitutaki whom he feels have lost appreciation and understanding of original Cook Islands way of life. His Punarei Cultural Village was certainly a testament to Aitutaki knowhow. The site replicates a traditional island settlement and was made by Ngaakitai using pre-European contact technology and building methods. Situated at one of the highest points of the island, the views from the village were phenomenal, but I was turning back to admire the craftsmanship that went into the village as often as I was gazing out to sea.
Find out more at aitutakiculturaltour.com.
Teking Lagoon Tours
Another day, another tour. My second day on Aitutaki was spent on the water with Teking Lagoon Tours being wowed by some of the best snorkeling in the most pristine conditions I’d ever experienced, poking around teensy specks of land such as One Foot Island, and generally having a blast soaking up rays of South Seas sun and contemplating the manifold shades of blue in the water and the sky.
Details at tekingtours.com.
Tupuna’s Restaurant
This upland and open-air eatery is held widely to be the best restaurant on the island (which considering Aitutaki’s remoteness and population of only around 2,000 residents actually has a considerable number of restaurants). My “Pork Trio” main course of sticky pork belly, pan grilled loin chop, and Chinese style BBQ pork with rice and vegetables was definitely a delicious (and ample treat).
Visit Tupuna’s Facebook page for more information: facebook.com/tupunasrestaurantaitutaki.
Rumours Café at Aitutaki Escape
The rumours are true! One of the most delectable dining experiences to be had in the Cook Islands is in the reception area of Aitutaki Escape resort. Chef Thomas Koteka has converted the space into an intimate dining room where he presents a menu of fine dining favourites with island flair. I was very much satisfied with my plate of prime rib eye and prawns with smashed potatoes, local spinach jus lie and hollandaise.
Check out Rumours online at aitutakiescape.com/rumours-café.
Tamanu Beach Resort
My Tamanu Beach Resort bungalow was steps from a lagoon, with an infinity pool along the way and sea kayak on the beach for exploring anytime of the day. I made it out on the water one early morning during stay and had such a good time. In addition to proximity to the beach, I loved the outdoor shadow in my bungalow, the great spread of breakfast options and the relaxed atmosphere of this small resort.
More at tamanubeach.com.
I’ll be back with one final Cook Islands Idyll wrap up post soon.
