If you're looking for somewhere in the South Pacific to relax and take in some culture, a Rarotonga resort in the captivating Cook Islands is a must see.
These islands are a stunning jewel in the ocean, with 15 idyllic islands surrounded by white sandy beaches and clear turquoise lagoons.
It is believed that the Cook Islands was first settled about 2400 years ago, although historians say the best known of the islands in the group - Rarotonga - was settled about 1500 years ago.
They believe that the locals who live there today originally migrated from Asia during the great Polynesian migration.
In 1888, the islands were made a British protectorate.
Then in 1901, the Cook Islands became a New Zealand dependency.
Sixty years later, it became a governing state.
The islands have become very popular with international tourists who love the sun, sea, friendly people and relaxed atmosphere.
Rarotonga is the most popular place to visit here and you don't have to look far on the island to find a fabulous Rarotonga resort for your accommodation.
A ring road called Ara Tapu connects up all the resorts, towns and villages, making it easy to travel around the island.
The Rarotongan climate is delightful, making it the perfect place for a holiday in the sun, with warm water, swaying coconut palms and a whispering breeze to lull you into believing that you really have arrived in paradise.
As well as being the most popular island for tourists, Raratonga is the capital of the Cook Islands, but you can easily travel by boat or plane to some of the other nearby islands such as Aitutaki or Atiu.
When you fly by plane at Rarotonga, you will arrived at the airport in Nikao which is about 2 kms from the village of Avarua on the northern side of the island.
The eastern side of the island features the popular village of Muri which is also the main tourist area.
It's easy to find an excellent Rarotonga resort in Muri, which is centred around the beach and lagoon.
The western side of the island has the village of Aroa which you can travel to by the ring road using a rental car, motor scooter, bus or bike.
If you're particularly energetic, you might like to walk! Your Rarotonga resort hosts will be very happy to help you sort out your travel requirements while on the island.