It was a pleasant surprise on a recent trip to the Beautiful Cooks Islands to find the Cooks are really forging ahead with their cuisine.

Typical Cook Island Recipes include the local fish/root plants/coconut and papaya....but the Cook Islanders are recreating themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the kitchen.  Not only are there dozens of places to eat, but the food is fantastic and the price point even better. 
For dinner out at a very nice restaurant in the Cooks, expect to pay around CAD45.00 per person, and this would include a couple of drinks each.  It is important to note that it is not customary to Tip in the Cook Islands and there is no other tax to add to this bill. 
There are plenty of places to grab a quick bite at a lesser price and again the price is very affordable.

Most of the accommodations in the Cook Islands include breakfast in your room cost.  So big breakfast, afternoon snack and then a nice dinner out makes the Cooks a very affordable place to stay on your vacation. 
Talk to a Cook Island Specialist to get more in depth recommendations for your needs.

Above, the plane you will take to Aitu Taki from Rarotonga.

To most people in the world the quite un assuming islands of Aitu Taki is a complete mystery....for that matter so are the Cook Islands.

It will be no mystery once you have stepped foot in this country.  But let's talk about Aitu Taki for now.  This is (in my opinion) THE most Beautiful Islands in the entire world.  I have visited a lot of island groups in the world, but never seen anything better than this one.  Located 45 minute (flight) from the Captial of the Cook Islands, Rarotonga and situated on a stunning blue lagoon.  Golden Sand and Light Blue Water as far as the eye can see.  There is one particular white sand beach off the coast of One Foot Island which is called Heaven....I was there and live to tell the tale.  It is a short stroll across ankle high crystal clear water....and there is nothing else in heaven except you and your partner, making it one of the most romantic beaches in the world.

You do have to be careful as not all the resorts in this island group are located on this lagoon, however, no matter where you stay you will be able to access this lagoon easily and comfortably.

Perhaps rent a scooter (no helmets necesarry), you just need a valid drivers licence (in English) and then pay for a temporary Cook Islands Licence (around $10) and you are off on an adventure anywhere you deisre....but I can guarantee that you will end up at the Aitu Taki Lagoon at least twice during your stay.

The recommended time spent in this paradise is around 3 to 4 days, but if you are looking for a little more quiet time to relax, then Aitu Taki is the best place for you....spend as long as you want.  Te Manu Resort hosts a brilliant Island Dance / Fire Show every Thursday.  Included in the price is a wonderful buffett of Cook Island Cuisine.  The food will more than satisfy you, the host Mike Henry (decendant from the oldest family name in the Cook Islands dating back to 900ad) will personally make you more than welcome and the high energy dancing / fire show will WOW you!  A really good night out for anyone on Aitu Taki for that night of the week.

Some people go to the Cooks and do not make it to Aitu Taki, they all regret this decision.  Some people make it to Aitu Taki for just a day tour from Rarotonga, these people always regret they did not stay longer.  Others have the forsight/guidance from a travel professional who knows better, and stay a minimum of 2 Nights....these people are the ones who feel satisfied that they have seen and experienced this beautiful destination.

I would recommend talking to a South Pacific Destination Specialist who knows the destination well and the resorts well, seek their advice as to where to stay and how long.  You will not pay more for this service and you will most certainly enhance your holiday experience in the Cook Islands.

The most important point here is....Don't Miss Aitu Taki when you explore the Cooks and give the Cooks serious consideration when searching for your island paradise holiday.