If I recall correctly, Neil has posted here a few times about the tropical paradise that is the Cook Islands. They are a historical place, these little dollops of land in the South pacific. They are the place where William Bligh, captain of the H.M.S. Bounty, last visited before the infamous 1789 mutiny.
And yet today they are also a major tourist destination for Aussies and Kiwis as well as many Europeans and Americans who make the long, long flight to get there.
In this fine little piece from the AP, writer Chirstina Almeida, visits the islands and finds they are, as advertised, slice of tropical heaven, a place with few cars, and where most islanders use motor scooters. You learn a little bit about the island’s storied history, but also some of the local attractions, which include (as might be expected) some fine fish meals and superb snorkeling and diving, where you can spot varied sea life from puffer and unicorn fish to giant clams. Needless to say, as we move swiftly into winter, one can’t help but sit back and ponder the fun and sun of a destination like this is.