There’s a reason so many people all over the world are drawn to Polynesian culture. A Cook Islands honeymoon is popular, however, with newlyweds for more than just a palm tree studded beach venue, although that luscious view doesn’t hurt. Primal drum beats, sensual dance and soulful art will add to the meaning of the first vacation newlyweds will ever take as a married couple.
Cook Islands, just northeast of New Zealand, is a stunning tropical wonder. White sandy beaches as far as the eye can see don’t compete with the view of the fresh, glistening waters. Pausing to take in the view, one would never imagine such tranquil beauty could have been born out of the chaos of volcanic activity. Is it possible honeymooners sense Cook Islands’ simmering past, much like their own passionate courtships? Perhaps, this is why newlyweds seem to have some sort of magical, implicit connection to the land.
Natives of Cook Islands will seduce honeymooners with their music and dance. Each beat of the wooden slit drum will send couples further into states of bliss. This is the way to start new lives together: in complete and utter ecstasy. Newlyweds will further be transfixed by the unique Ura Pa’u dance that the people of Cook Islands originated. Honeymooners shouldn’t be surprised if they get invited in front of the crowds by performers for impromptu honorary dances; this is custom, making others feel welcome, which is always encouraged by the warm-spirited people of Cook Islands.
Couples will delight in exploring the expressive art of woodcarving, which is highly respected in Cook Islands. Often, Tangaroa, the mythological sea god, is the inspiration for many of the pieces produced. Spears, however, are also commonly carved because they are used to protect from harm and to catch fish. No matter the subject, honeymooners will appreciate the brilliant, intricate wood etchings Cook Islands’ artists use to express their talent.
Common Words & Phrases
Kia orana! You’ll hear this cheerful greeting from everyone as you move around the Cook Islands. It means ‘may you live on’.
Other useful words and phrases are:
Good morning = popongi
Goodnight = po manea, po meitaki
Goodbye = ‘aere ra
Thank You = meitaki
Have a nice day = ra manea
Maori is the local – and official – language of the islands but English is spoken everywhere. Cook Island Maori is also referred to as ‘Te reo Ipukarea’ or ‘the language of the Ancestral Homeland’
