Pacific Island Paradises

COOK ISLANDS Aitutaki Aitutaki, the second most visited island in the Cook Islands group, is geologically part volcanic and part atoll. Local legend claims that its highest hill, Maungapu, is said to be the top of Rarotonga's Raemaru mountain that was chopped off and brought back by victorious Aitutaki warriors. Polynesian myth holds that beautiful Aitutaki is a giant fish tethered to the seabed by a vine from the air. The light turquoise lagoon looks like a huge pale oyster against the vivid blue ocean. Captain Bligh discovered Aitutaki in 1789, only 17 days before the notorious mutiny on the Bounty. Christian missionaries followed which meant it was the first island in the Cook Islands to receive Christianity. Today the people live in villages along the coastline and island interior. Most roads are tar sealed and transport is mainly by motor scooter, although bicycles and cars are also used to get people around. The low rolling hills of the island are flanked by 28  www.paradisesonline.com banana plantations and coconut groves. A triangular barrier reef seems to catch the exquisite turquoise Aitutaki lagoon like a giant fishhook. The crystal clear water in the lagoon is ideal for sailing, swimming and snorkelling and beneath the blue surface is a world of sea creatures and plants that will leave you fascinated. There's also the elusive fighting bonefish which is favoured by anglers. To reach the summit of Maungapu, take a leisurely half-hour walk to the west side of the island. At its peak you'll discover a breathtaking view of Aitutaki. The shopping and business district is between Amuri and Ureia and also clustered near the wharf at Arutanga. Aitutaki offers a range of accommodation for any budget and there are a few restaurants and cafés on the island for your dining pleasure. Live entertainment can be found at hotels or local watering holes. Be sure to book a full day lagoon cruise. There will be plenty of snorkelling opportunities and you can even hand feed schools of tropical fish and see giant clams up close. Some operators offer snorkelling gear and towels and serve a barbecue lunch when you arrive on an island. If you prefer to keep your feet nice and dry, a glass bottom boat tour is a fun way to view the reef below with its amazing formations and amazing tropical fish. On board, the operator will point out the wonders of the lagoon and explain how the Marine Fisheries is trying to increase the number of fish in the lagoon. This is a perfect day for young families. Other day trips will take you to sacred grounds where ancient rituals and sacrifices were performed. You will learn how ancient Polynesian warriors defended their island with the help of supernatural beings and how warriors of old voyaged long distances to experience the music and drums of Te Are Karioi. Te Are Karioi was famous in this region of Polynesia, before the arrival of Europeans, as a place where men could find refuge from their wives and families and dance the nights away in the company of young women.

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