Pacific Island Paradise

Island time begins from the minute you board the flight from your home port to pick up the overnight Sydney to Rarotonga route. Scattered across 2 million square kilometres of Pacific Ocean, Rarotonga is the largest of 15 lush volcanic islands, surrounded by a vibrant, tropical shoreline. With five nights in the Moana Sands Lagoon Resort there’s plenty of leisure time to soak up the atmosphere, explore the lush interior of the island and meet the locals. 

Encircled by 32 kilometres of road, a morning orientation tour will introduce you to a paradise where there are no traffic lights, shopping centres, or buildings higher than a coconut tree. Designed and led by locals you’ll discover the historic and cultural sites, learn about the black pearl industry, and sample local beer at the Rarotonga Brewery.

The following day is all about people. Meeting the smiling faces of kids at a local school is more than humbling, it’s a way of giving back through a project to help with educational materials. The evening brings flashback to the 60s. Remember progressive dinners? Yes, they are alive and well in the Cook Islands, where you’ll be treated to a brilliant night of kindness and laughter over a three-course traditional meal hosted in the homes of three families.

Boarding Captain’s Tama’s Lagoon Cruise to the sound of the drums will get you in the mood for a bird’s eye view of the vibrant underwater world of Raratona’s beautiful lagoon on a glass bottom boat. Toss on a snorkel and flippers for a closer ‘Captain Cook’ (look) before lolling about on a deserted island lunching on barbecued local delicacies. 

On the last day, the Saturday market will be a hive of activity and colour showcasing beautiful handicrafts and fresh produce for last minute shopping and tastings. The final dinner takes in ‘the ultimate island experience’—a feast combined with a star-studded line up of dancers and performers. Flying back to Australia the next day, you’ll carry special memories of the Cook Islands and its people. 

This article is featured in National Seniors Australia’s quarterly member magazine, Our Generation. 

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