Tips and tricks for surviving in Rarotonga Cook Islands, South Pacific

Nudity or semi-nudity is frowned upon. The missionaries covered us up and it's stuck.
We drive on the left side of the road.
It takes 45 minutes to drive around the island of Rarotonga.
Wear glasses when riding your motorbike or scooter.
When driving your scooter, watch out for dogs running out in front of you. Approach with caution.
To avoid the burn of your scooter exhaust get off the left side of your scooter.
Go with a guide when venturing into the mountains.
When wearing a flower, wearing it in your right ear means you're single and in your left means you're married, or so they say. If it looks good, it doesn't matter.
Wear reef shoes when going into the lagoon
Do not swim in the passages that lead outside the reef to the ocean. Strong currents. If in doubt ask a local.
Lock up at all times, cars scooters and homes. Paradise ain't perfect.
Keep an eye on your valuables at the beach.
Feeding the local dogs will bring them back for more.
To avoid hefty charges do not roam with your mobile phone on the local network.
Attempt some Cook Island Maori. Check out our glossary on our 'Rarotonga Guide' page.
Duty free cigarettes and alcohol is cheaper at our end, although there may not be as great a selection. All the major brands are stocked.
We do not have eftpos.
Visa is the mostly widely accepted credit card

Tips "and tricks"