RELAXING IN RAROTONGA

From Wellington we head off to the beautiful Cook Islands for a time of rest and relaxation.  At the airport we meet Papa Jake, who for the last 30 years has been playing his ukelele and serenading visitors as they collect their luggage from the carousel.

Everyone is presented with the traditional necklace of Gardenia flowers which are called "Ei".  They are so pretty and smell lovely.   The hotel manager welcomes us with a kiss.  This is a friendly place.

The location is stunning and the Polynesian style accommodation is situated in lovely gardens adjacent to the beach.  

The restaurant overlooks the lagoon and infinity pool

We take a little exercise

before a little siesta

followed by another cocktail ... this one is a real tropical smoothie!

The sunsets on this side of the island are superb.

It takes us a while to adjust to island time, but we manage it in the end.

This beautiful South Pacific Island Paradise really did exceed our expectations.