London, June 13: There's no doubt the sunsets over the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean are beautiful and there is also no denying to the fact that the Cook Islands is a great holiday destination.
And the great weather and stunning scenery are a definite plus. But it's the relaxed lifestyle and easygoing people that are the clincher. You know you are a long way from the rat race when you hear just why helmets have remained optional for scooter riders.
When it was suggested they be made compulsory, the Cooks Island’s women protested that when they rode their scooters to church on Sunday, the helmets would crush their hats.
So a "suit yourself" attitude prevails on helmets, as on so many things in island life.
From the lush rainforest that covers most of the island to the sun-bleached beaches and crystal-clear turquoise water, it's hard to know what to do first: to go snorkeling around the protected reefs to gaze at the fish and sea life in brilliant colour or to take an eco-tour with Pa's Mountain Walks to observe the native flora and fauna and learn about local "medicine plants".
Because the island is small, you can do both in a day. Who could ask for anything more?
A great way to meet the locals is to go to the markets on Saturday. Market vendors sell everything from smoked broadbill and marlin to those exquisite black pearls as well as coconut ice cream (which is to die for). The locals usually buy their week's supply of fresh fruit and veggies from the markets and catch up with family and friends.
It's like a great big get-together. The other big social event is church at 10am on Sunday at the Cook Islands Christian Church. Everyone dresses in their finest clothes and the women proudly display those Sunday hats.
The sound from the choir as it reverberates around the church is uplifting. Even more uplifting is the invitation to join the locals after church for some tea, biscuits and a chat. You can see the Cook Islanders' pride in their heritage in their song and dance. Night functions at most of the island's larger hotels give you a taste of the local culture.
The easygoing lifestyle and traditional way of life, which does not abuse the natural resources, is a tribute to the foresight of this down-to-earth people in paradise.
Bureau Report
