Pacific Island Paradises

COOK ISLANDS evening schedules. The 'Clockwise' or 'Anticlockwise' bus will pick you up and set you down anywhere on request. Motor scooters and bicycles are a popular way to see the island, however rental cars and taxis are also available. Driving is on the left hand side of the road, and it is compulsory to obtain a Cook Islands driver's licence. This is available for a minimal cost (NZ$20) on the presentation of your existing licence at the police station. Should you wish to hire a motor scooter and do not have an existing licence, a simple practical test is required. Food and entertainment Night spots and bars will on occasion have live entertainment. A highlight of the Cook Islands is the Polynesian feast, umukai prepared in the traditional style with foods such as ika mata (marinated fish with coconut sauce), eke (octopus), taro (tuba vegetable), rukau (cooked taro leaves similar to spinach), and kumara (sweet potato). An umukai is usually part of an Island Night Show featured at major hotels. The sumptuous buffet and traditional dancing is all part of the culture of the Cook Islands and you can also experience this at the Highland Paradise and Te Vara Nui cultural attractions. Night Life tours showcasing the best night spots are run on Friday evenings. Wining and dining in Rarotonga is a treat with many excellent restaurants offering local and international cuisine in some very romantic locations. Activities and shopping guide There is a variety of activities on offer to suit any traveller including relaxing cruises on two of the world's most beautiful lagoons, Muri Lagoon on Rarotonga and the world famous Aitutaki Lagoon. Popular pastimes include sailing, windsurfing, snorkelling and scuba diving. Boats are available for charter for deep-sea and game fishing. Shops are open 8 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday, and 8 am to noon on Saturdays. On Saturday mornings the popular local market place, Punanga Nui, in downtown Avarua offers a range of tropical delicacies and local craft items. Climate and clothing Warm and sunny year round. Rainy season is December to March. Average summer temperature is 26ºC. Casual brief swimwear should be kept for beaches or poolside. Nude and topless sunbathing is unacceptable. Time zone GMT – 10 hours or 20 hours behind AEST. Electricity 240 volts DC/50 cycles. Some hotels/motels have provision for 110 volt AC electric shavers. Currency The NZ dollar, supplemented by local coinage (not negotiable outside the Cook Islands).The dollar coin bearing the symbol of the traditional god, Tangaroa, is popular with coin collectors, as is the $3 note. There are ATMs located on Rarotonga and Aitutaki. EFTPOS is available. Tipping is not customary but is appreciated. www.paradisesonline.com 11

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