Cook Islands

Flight.co.uk Overview

The increasing number of low-cost airlines offering flights to Croatia testifies to the fact that this eastern European country, with a magnificent coastline encompassing 1,185 offshore islands and reefs, Roman ruins and picturesque medieval towns, is fast becoming a popular alternative to the traditional holiday meccas of Greece and Turkey. Flights to Croatia offer the promise of a fun-filled holiday, packed with sunshine, local colour, delicious cuisine and a sprinkling of history. Discount flights to Croatia are packed during the height of the summer season, making it imperative to book flights to Croatia early for those who want to experience the magic of the country's famed Dalmatian coastline. Flights to Croatia depart from most major centres. During a turbulent political history and the quest for independence, Croatia has been geographically re-arranged several times, leaving it today with a long Adriatic coastline on the west, extending to the magnificently preserved medieval seaport of Dubrovnik at its southern extremity. Croatia flights usually bring visitors in to the capital, Zagreb, situated on the slopes of the Medvednica Mountain along the banks of the Sava River. The city is rich in historical monuments, museums, galleries, modern shops, restaurants and sport facilities, and is well worth a look before heading off to the seaside.

Overview

The 15 Cook Islands are scattered across the south Pacific over about two million square kilometres, an area the size of India. These unspoilt Polynesian tropical gems have a combined population of an average country town: about 14,000 unique and friendly souls. Most Cook Islanders dwell on the capital island of Rarotonga, which is also where most of the 70,000-odd annual visitors stop off, arriving at the island's international airport.

Circular Rarotonga is almost completely enclosed by a reef, harbouring a lagoon of clear turquoise water and white sandy beaches. The small island is dominated by a high mountain peak from which lush rain forests cascade down to the palm-fringed shore. The commercial centre of the islands is the friendly, bustling town of Avarua on Rarotonga, which has banks, shops and tourist facilities as well as a busy port and yacht basin. The outer islands are becoming increasingly popular for excursions, but remain largely unspoiled by tourism.

The Cook Islanders have their own language and government, and enjoy a vigorous and diverse culture with significant differences between each island. Even if you go no further than Rarotonga, though, you will be ensured of a dream 'South Seas' holiday experience on the pristine beaches, snorkelling the reef, or exploring the island by bus, motor scooter, bicycle or jeep.

Local Customs

Inhabitants of the Cook Islands are very religious and frown upon inappropriate dress. Beachwear should not be worn in town, and topless sunbathing is a definite 'no-no'.

Business

The main business centre is Avarua. Business in the Cook Islands is fairly casual, extending to dress (which should also be modest, particularly for women) and punctuality. Meetings will be conducted in English when foreigners are present, although islanders may speak to one another in Maori to clarify their understanding during proceedings, and is not meant as an offence. Meetings usually begin and end with a prayer. Business hours are generally 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday.

Health

There is little risk of disease on the Cook Islands, but visitors should take precautions against insect bites and sunburn. There has been an outbreak of dengue fever since May 2006. Recommended vaccinations are hepatitis A, hepatitis B (infants and children), typhoid and rabies. Locals consider the tap water safe, but boiled or bottled water is advised for visitors, particularly in rural areas. A range of medical and dental services are available on Rarotonga, including a hospital and various pharmacies, but medical facilities in the Cook Islands in general are limited and a comprehensive medical insurance is advised to include air evacuation for emergencies.

Safety

Visits to the Cook Islands are usually trouble-free. There is relatively little crime, but it is advisable to protect your valuables.

Duty Free

The following goods may accompany travellers over 18 years to the Cook Islands: 2 litres of spirits or 2 litres of wine or a combination of the two, or 4 and a half litres of beer; 200 cigarettes or 20 cigars. Only travellers from New Zealand are permitted to import fruit, meat and livestock. No firearms, cartridges or cartridge cases, gunpowder, bullets, and other forms of ammunition are allowed without prior permission from the Minister of Police.

Tipping

Tipping is not expected and is contrary to Cook Islands custom.

Language

Cook Island Maori is widely spoken by locals, but English is in common use.

Communications

The country code for the Cook Islands is +682, and the outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City codes are not required. International Direct Dialling is available, but operator assistance may be required. In the main town of Avarua there is a telecommunications office (Telecom Cook Islands) offering international telephone, fax, email, Internet connections and other services. GSM cellular mobile services are only available on Rarotonga and Aitutaki.

Time Zone

Local time is GMT –10.

Electricity

Electrical current is 240 volts, 50Hz; the same as New Zealand and Australia. A two-pin adapter is required at some establishments.

Money

The currency of the Cook Islands is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). Foreign currency exchange is available at the airport and two banks in Avarua. ATMs are available in Avarua at the banks and at major stores and restaurants. American Express, Visa and MasterCard are accepted at restaurants and hotels in the main towns, and travellers cheques in small denominations as well as major foreign currencies can be exchanged at larger shops and hotels. Australian dollars are the preferred currency for travellers cheques.