Kick back and relax. In the middle of the Pacific Ocean, halfway between Australia and Hawaii, lies a tropical time-warp. Three colours blue, a star-cast of thousands and rich in island spirit, the panoramic vision of Rarotonga should not be missed. Please rewind before returning.

Sunshine-warmed frangipani scents the tarmac. The traveller departs into the welcoming embrace of Cook Island Tourism Ambassadors, Aunties Nane and Lydia, before drifting effortlessly through immigration. Papa Jake serenades a heartfelt “Kia Orana” (long life) hello – just as he’s done for 35 years.

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Jane Lawson, travel and food writer for Escape.com.au, visited our Little Paradise in June this year.