After years of marriage, romance often needs to be rekindled – maybe a new knot needs tying, a milestone anniversary needs toasting or vows need renewing. Whether you’re rejuvenating an old-time relationship or launching into first-time nuptials, in our opinion, there are fewer places to generate those loving vibes than The Cook Islands.
The 15-isle archipelago is in the Polynesian Triangle between Tahiti and Fiji, and Rarotonga is the queen bee of them all. Billowy palms canopy the 32 kilometres of grey asphalt that rings this island gem. They throw shade over the interior hills that are cloaked with vibrant flora and line the sensuous strips of sand that hug up to iridescent blue lagoons. Coral reefs thrive beneath, heavenly floral scents waft in the sultry breeze, and crimson sunsets magnify the backdrop. What more do you need for a romantic vacay? How about some pampering properties?
Just 10 minutes from the main hub of Avarua, the Sanctuary Rarotonga On The Beach caters to adults only and her sister neighbour, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa, is perfect for multi-generational groups. They both trace the captivating white sands of Aroa Beach, where there is tide-safe swimming, stand-up paddle boarding and sensational snorkelling.
Here on Rarotonga’s southwest coast, the sparkling waters of Aroa Lagoonarium are sheltered from the Pacific Ocean by an offshore coral reef and are home to a variety of marine life, including Eagle Rays and Green Turtles, making it the island’s leading snorkelling spot. It comes as no surprise that this hot spot has deservingly earned the title ‘Lagoon of Love.’
“Our beach front has real appeal for couples who are in search of that special ceremony,” shares Director of Sales & Marketing, Liz Raizis. “If couples are seeking a child-free ambience, they’ll find it at our next-door property. And here at Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa we can please guests of all ages.
Over a hundred varied accommodations including rooms, suites and villas sprawl over this palatial 2.4-hectare property. And for that quintessential experience of the South Pacific, the Deluxe Beachside Suites, Grand Beachfront Suites and Honeymoon Pool & Spa Bungalow, all feature heavenly open-air showers.
Thatched-roof walkways lead us from The Rarotongan’s sandy shores to a lush South Seas garden. A waterfall plummets over grotto rocks into an infinity pool and an activities hut offers us everything from kayaks and paddleboards to night-time snorkelling tours. We can feed the reef fish, learn to dance the ’ura (hula), make a fresh flower lei, play the ukulele – all which are part of the complimentary Activities Programme. And while children make new friends in the free Moko Kids Club, us older kids can relax with a soothing coconut-oil massage at The Rarotongan’s SpaPolynesia.
Another attraction that we’re captivated by during our stay is the resort’s famous Island Night, featuring E-Matike Island troupe’s award-winning performers.
Beads of perspiration dampen the beautiful Cook Islander’s copper-tone brow and beneath a quivering grass skirt, her hips swivel to the beat of rhythmic drums. Her partner also gyrates beneath his skimpy loin cloth and while knocking his knees together and swaying both arms, he performs his African tribal-like boogie. Before long, they’re joined by a team of others who range in age from the very young to the aged fit. And in spite of the sultry stillness that engulfs the open-air stage, they all shake and shimmer in perfect synchronicity. It’s certainly an experience that leaves lasting memories – as is our next Cook Island destination the following day.
“All aboard on a one-way trip to Paradise, ladies and gents,” a voice calls out. Although decked out in Polynesian florals instead of traditional navy gear, the make-shift pontoon boat Captain knows his business. “If you don’t ride our cruiser, you’d better be a good swimmer,” he says with an impish grin. The two-minute voyage to the private island is certainly doable by front crawl, but the venture helps authenticate the real Robinson Crusoe feel.
A modern-day version of Fantasy Island comes alive after we disembark on Akitua, and home of the island’s solo property, Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort. Swaying palms stand like watchtower sentinels as they line the pristine beachfront of this adults-only paradise and all accommodations cast an allure with their captivating features. The beachfront bungalows entice with their superior views, the garden bungalows are embraced by manicured flora and the over-water bungalows (our heavenly hut away from home) cantilever beyond the sensuous shoreline to offer us a quick dip into a world-class lagoon.
Over the next two days, after slathering up with sunscreen, we splash in the glorious Pacific, paddle and kayak to neighbouring islands, and laze about in idle reverie. As well as a glistening pool and pampering spa, we’re offered everything from coconut climbing and fish feeding to sarong tying and Cook Island culinary lessons. And when we prefer to be served, we have tasty dining options to choose from.
As the sun drops beneath the horizon, the lagoon’s aquamarine surface shimmers with brilliance. The distant evergreen islets transform to sapphire mounds and the crystal blue skies turn a coral pink with streaks of amber and orange. It’s a silent symphony of colour that seems to go on forever. And it’s the perfect view to end every romantic Cook Island day.
IF YOU GO:
Where To Stay
Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa
https://www.therarotongan.com/
Sanctuary Rarotonga On The Beach
https://www.sanctuaryrarotonga.com/
The Aitutaki Lagoon Resort & Spa
http://www.aitutakilagoonresort.com/
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