This week I present the third edition in my series looking at the Cook Islands. In volume 10 I discussed the various foods and cooking methods of the Cook Islands people.
This week I will talk about one island in the Cook Islands group that you should definitely visit.
THAT’S A LAGOON!
As mentioned in previous newsletters, The Cooks Islands comprises 15 islands stretched over the area of Alaska. The main island is Rarotonga and is the gateway to all the others. However, the second most well-known and visited island is Aitutaki (ai·too·taa·kee).
This week we will have a look at this paradise.
One of the Cook Islands gems is Aitutaki (ai·too·taa·kee). After Rarotonga the second most popular and visited island in the country. A lovely 50-minute flight from Rarotonga it’s famous for its crystal blue waters and tranquility it is usually ranked in the top beaches and islands in the world. It is believed to have been first settled around 1225 – 1430 AD. One of its famous visitors was Captain Bligh in 1789 before the infamous mutiny on the Bounty. If you ever venture to this part of the world I definitely recommend a visit.
You won’t regret it.
“A little paradise means Aitutaki, home to approximately 1800 people and the world’s most beautiful lagoon. It's only 220 kilometres or a 50-minute flight from Rarotonga. Secluded and romantic, 15 motus (islets) are sprinkled across this huge turquoise, sunlit lagoon.”1
Don’t let the small population and small area fool you. In the modern age where we are under pressure and constantly connected to everyone twenty-four hours a day. The ability to float in a lagoon far away from distractions will blow your mind. It’s a strange feeling to think that everywhere you look is a vast expanse of ocean and the bustle and drama of daily life could be on another planet.
When you go to Aitutaki (ai·too·taa·kee) the first things you notice are the color of the water and that there seem to be some mountains or major hills of significant height. It has a maximum height of about 140 meters which might seem small but when its the highest point as far as you can see it might appear like Everest.
“Aitutaki Atoll is volcanic in origin and rises to about 450 feet (140 meters). Its 12 offshore islets, however, are low coral formations. A reef encircles the entire island with an enclosed turquoise lagoon that widens to the south.”2
I could explain more about this paradise but my words can’t do it justice. Sit back in your favorite chair. Grab a beverage of choice and enjoy the view for ten minutes.
Aitutaki (ai·too·taa·kee), Cook Islands, bring your hat, sunscreen, and leave your problems at home!
See you there.
This week’s recommendations
1) This week I have 2 new language expressions for followers of this newsletter. How do we say thank you in Korean and Cook Island Maori?
