WHAT IS IT THAT MAKES THE COOK ISLANDS SO SPECIAL? Karla Eggelton definitely knows because she’s lived there all her life and is uniquely placed to tell us as she’s Chief Executive of tourism. In this episode, she gives us a unique insight into the capital island of Rarotonga, its next most visited neighbour, the stunningly beautiful Aitutaki and some of the 13 other islands which make up this Polynesian paradise in the South Pacific. Among them are some of the most remote and unspoiled places on the planet.

Karla explains how new flights are making the Cook Islands easier to get to. She also talks passionately of Cook Islands cultural values, including protecting the environment, caring for each other and how Islanders want to share a love of their homeland with the world. Get some tourist tips too in her answers to a fun quick fire quiz.

This is a must listen if you're thinking about a visit to the Cook Islands or just want to know more about a uniquely special little paradise.

The copyright free music included in this episode is by the fantastic 'Koka Lagoon Boys' of the Cook Islands (search for more them on YouTube)

EXPLORE ALL 15 OF THE COOK ISLANDS
My website is the most detailed guide on the net at Cook Islands complete guide. It's also THE ONLY TOTALLY INDEPENDENT GUIDE ON THE INTERNET with information about each and every one of the 15 islands. My own travels and those of other visitors and islanders themselves combine to provide what I hope you'll enjoy as a unique insight. There's an introduction to the Islands here. Find out...how to get to the Islands and get advice on getting around them. There's at least one page about every island to help you discover what to see and do and what makes it special. There are also a few ideas about what to take home to remind you of paradise. And there are answers to frequently asked questions, a list of the top 10 things to do and some "did you know?" facts.

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