Hello all, Sorry for not writing for so long, the telecommunications network on the Cook Islands was...basic to say the least.

Have had a fantastic week on Rarotonga, the biggest island in the Cooks circle, and although its not the most beautiful, it was still pretty idyllic. We had accomodation right next to the beach, which made up for the cockroaches and dirt! Hostel was pretty basic, but lovely pool and views to the sea.

Not loads to say, as there wasn't much to do other then sunbathe when the weather was good and watch dvds when it wasn't, both of which we got pretty good at. Went into 'town' called Avarua, its smaller then a village back home, and had a lovely lunch one day of gumbo shrimp and chicken.

We went to a Cook Island man's house and watched him climb a very tall palm tree, no mean feat considering he's over 65! He then started a fire (after about 30 minutes of trying!) and bbq'd us some amazing fish, right on the beach, while we watched the sun set.

We also went to an Islands Night to drink cocktails and watch traditional dancing, which was fantastic. I had to get up on stage and dance with a very sweaty teenage boy, doing the whole shaking hips thing..amusing after a few cocktails, embarrassing now!

Umm what else did we do....played with the stray kitten and dog who were both adorable, had some great meals out including an enormous seafod platter which was delicious, and a fantastic curry!

It was generally a very relaxing week after all our adventure acvtivities in NZ especially. Would have been very romantic to be there with someone you loved, but still good even with Bri and Sarah :-) Just arrived in LA, literally a world apart, we are staying just off Hollywood Boulevard. To be honest I;m ready for dinner and bed. Going to Universal Studios tomorrow so hopefully that will be an entertaining day! Not long to go til I'm home now....xxxxxxxx