Paradise Found - John Roberts. Date of travel: Apr 2006
So many places lay claim to being an unspoiled paradise, but as one who been round the world several times, I can honestly say only the Cook Islands lives up to the claim. International flights take you to the capital island of Rarotonga where you'll find beautiful beaches, genuinely friendly local people and wonderful places to eat (try the Tamarind House or Salsa, to name but two). Warm clear waters wash sandy shores and life moves at a pace which the rest of the world has forgotten. But the traveller who ventures to at least one of the other islands in the group (there are 15 in total) will be rewarded with riches that make even Rarotonga pale. I would personally recommend the capital's nearest neighbour, Aitutaki (crystal clear, turqouise blue waters brimming with fish and some of the world's rarest turtles). Or if you want somewhere really magical, hop on a plane to Mauke - 45 minutes flying time away. Everyone - and I mean everyone - will treat you like a long lost friend. The island is totally unspoiled as are the people. I was so impressed with the Cook Islands that I created a non-commercial web site about them which goes into much more detail about each of the 15 islands (www.cookislands.org.uk). Tour Operator: Independently booked

Michael Redington. Date of travel: May 2004
The Cook Islands are simply fantastic, especially Rarotonga. Full of the most warm, friendly people I have ever met. Time doesn't mean much here and life is totally unhurried. Plenty of time to enjoy the finer things in life, from snorkelling on the crystal clear reef to sunbathing on the beautiful beaches. There is plenty of accommodation to be had from budget dorms to renting a beach house or staying in a luxury resort. If you visit the Cook Islands you are bound to want to return. I do!