Halifax to Cook Islands Flight Deals

You won't need much more than a snorkel and some sun cream to fully enjoy the calm serenity of some of the most beautiful islands the romantic South Pacific has to offer. The 15 islands and atolls that make up the gorgeous Cook Islands provide the rest.

Only two islands in the archipelago are more than sparsely inhabited and the total population of the nation is still a mere 15,000 which, along with its blessed geographic positioning, provides that sense of remoteness that's all too hard to find in today's well connected world. On the outer motus, there is no internet and power goes out after dark.

Rarotonga, in the Southern Cook Islands, is the ruggedly handsome capital and largest of the islands with most of the country's resorts and amenities. Outside of the services offered at hotels and a handful of worthwhile cafes, bars and restaurants, there isn't much sight-seeing to be had. The most notable may be the mid 1800's built, white-washed coral Cook Islands Christian Church.

Aitutaki is the second most visited island and its breathtaking coral lagoon, sand bars and lively reef are its biggest draw. Boat trips and snorkeling excursions rule this brochure-cover destination which is often the highlight for many a lucky guest. Inland, sacred Maori meeting grounds (marae) are interesting reminders of the islands' early inhabitants, still plentiful here.

The trade winds hiss, lush palms sway and the roar of the ocean rumbles and growls as it crashes on Rarotonga's surrounding reef and all is well - exactly as it's been for thousands of years.