population: 0.02 million

extension: 67.19 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Rarotonga and interested in museums, I recommend visiting the Cook Islands Library and Museum. It houses an extensive collection of books, documents, photographs, artifacts, and exhibits relating to the history of the Cook Islands. If you are interested in similar places, you might also want to check out the Te Papa Museum in Wellington, New Zealand, or the Auckland War Memorial Museum in Auckland, New Zealand.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to eat in Rarotonga, according to local people, include:

1. Ika Mata: This is a traditional Cook Islands dish made with raw fish that's marinated in coconut cream and lime juice.

2. Rukau: This dish consists of taro leaves cooked in coconut cream and onions, and is often served as a side dish.

3. Eke: This is a dish made with octopus that's been boiled or grilled and served with a coconut milk-based sauce.

4. Poke: Similar to the Hawaiian dish, poke in Cook Islands is made with diced raw fish that's mixed with various seasonings and sauces.

5. Curried fish: As the name suggests, this dish features fish that's been cooked in a flavorful curry sauce.

6. Umukai: This is a traditional feast that involves cooking food (such as chicken, pork, taro, and breadfruit) in an underground oven called an 'umu,' which is heated with hot rocks.

These are just a few examples of the delicious cuisine you can find in Rarotonga!

Activities

There are many fun activities that locals enjoy in Rarotonga. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Go snorkeling or diving: Rarotonga has an abundance of marine life, and there are many places to go snorkeling or diving.

2. Take a lagoon cruise: There are many operators offering lagoon cruises, which allow you to explore the beautiful lagoon and coral reefs around Rarotonga.

3. Attend a cultural show: Many resorts offer cultural shows that showcase traditional Cook Islands dance, music, and food.

4. Hike to the Needle: The Needle is a tall rock formation that offers great views of the island. It's a popular hiking destination for both tourists and locals.

5. Visit the Punanga Nui Market: This bustling market takes place every Saturday morning and features local food, crafts, and souvenirs. It's a great place to mingle with locals and sample some delicious Cook Islands cuisine.

6. Play beach volleyball: Beach volleyball is a popular sport in Rarotonga, and there are plenty of opportunities to join a game on the beach.

7. Rent a scooter or bicycle: Renting a scooter or bicycle is a great way to explore the island at your own pace and get off the beaten track.