Grand Escapades
Travel Photography & Travel Experiences of Africa, South America, the Middle-East & Asia
Beach where Captain Cook landed for the first time in the Cook Islands, in 1777
After only two days, it came clear to us that Atiu was definitely THE highlight of the three islands we visited within the Cook Islands. It was here that the words “unspoiled nature” and “Travel Off The Beaten Track” took on a completely new meaning for us. Continue Reading →
“Island Night” at Samade on the Beach, Aitutaki Atoll, Cook Islands
After having been on the Cook Islands for more than two weeks, we thought we had to attend one of the typical “Island Nights”. The first one we wanted to go had been cancelled because there were not enough reservations. Our second attempt took us to “Samade on the Beach”, a very nice restaurant right on the lagoon. The buffet was superb, with lots of local traditional dishes. We truly enjoyed it! The dance performance was nice, especially since the dancers seemed to have lots of fun, laughing at the many mistakes they made. Nevertheless, it all seemed a little amateurish. Continue Reading →
Islanders fishing, Aitutaki Atoll, Cook Islands
Another Motu we stopped during the Lagoon Cruise is called Akaiami Island, which has an interesting aviation history. It was part of the line of defense against the Japanese in World War II and from 1951 to 1960, this vast lagoon was the stopover for the Tasman Empire Airways flying boats. Continue Reading →
“Lagoon Cruise”, Aitutaki Atoll, Cook Islands
Aitutaki’s biggest attraction is its lagoon, which we explored by boat, a “Lagoon Cruise”: We started off in torrential rain, but the weather improved soon and we missed none of the amazing views. Our boat passed a string of “Motus”, small uninhabited islets surrounded by turquoise water. On the way we, stopped to snorkel around a small reef that is the natural habitat of the very rare giant clams. Continue Reading →
View of a part of the lagoon from the plane, Aitutaki Atoll, Cook Islands
Soon we developed an understanding of what living on a remote island like Aitutaki involves. Yes, it is peaceful, quiet and scenic, but that can soon turn into boredom. Continue Reading →