Australia 2023 AUS | Page 138

SOUTH PACIFIC

Cook Islands
Quintessential paradise | Pristine coral reefs | Dazzling white sand beaches Abundant watersports | Perfect for honeymooners | Warm , friendly people
The 30,000 islands of the South Pacific region embody unmatched natural beauty in every way , shape and form . With warm tropical sunshine , swaying palms , impossibly blue seas , rainforest shrouded mountains and friendly people whose traditions date back centuries , it ’ s no wonder they ’ re most people ’ s idea of paradise . Indeed , there are few places which can match the daydreamy South Pacific islands , whether as a standalone island sojourn or as a stopover after travelling the Antipodes . What you can ’ t tell from a map or tourist guides is that these palm-laden places are as diverse as the region is vast , with both the Cook Islands and Fiji sure to take your breath away .
A long way from anywhere else , the Cook Islands are the epitome of an unspoiled idyll , thanks to their tropical vistas of blue lagoons , white sand beaches and lush green mountains . Mixing Polynesian hospitality with New Zealand savoir faire , these fifteen droplets of land boast a wonderful array of resorts for every type of traveller . It ’ s a laidback destination where “ time ” takes on a whole new meaning . There are no branded resorts , no buildings taller than coconut trees , no crowds and no stop lights , yet the islands offer modern conveniences and undiscovered luxury .
Fiji and its islands offer a haven where you can relax and recharge in splendid isolation . At the crossroads of the Pacific , this is an appealing land of fun-loving people and fascinating culture . Those seeking to escape from the pressures of life will heave a sigh of relief at the exquisite white sand beaches fringed by ginclear seas ; dive and snorkel enthusiasts will find the underwater world worth the plunge ; and nature lovers will be at one with their world as lush interiors offer ample opportunities to hike and amble .
138 SOUTH PACIFIC visit your local travel agent or call 08444 937 900