ATTN: Parent's or Larger Groups! You would be hard-pressed to find a better location and accommodation. We travelled to Raro for a wedding, but also wanted a vacation for our 2 young Families. Paia's House checked many boxes for us. It was perfect for "Team Parenting" and communal living. If you are in need of 4-star Western Standard accommodation, it's likely better that you continue scrolling. The beds and accommodation are above average Island Style, but you will be disappointed if you are expecting Tempurpedic Mattresses and 600 thread count sheets. That being said, if you want an authentic Island experience with incredible hospitality, keep reading.
Pros:
1. One of the best beaches in Rarotonga. Absolutely perfect for young children as it is shallow a fair ways out in all but the highest tides, and there is plenty to snorkel and see just steps away from your accommodation.
2. HUGE grass area to throw a frisbee or toss a ball. Kids enjoyed having such a large space to play and just be kids. Adults enjoyed the comfort of being able to see the kids from the accommodation and patio area.
3. The Hosts - Donna was away, but John went above and beyond the call of duty to help us with every single request. From pans to bake a cake for my daughter's birthday to a full length mirror so 3 women could get ready for a wedding at the same time. John was incredibly accommodating, and made every effort to efficiently meet our requests and needs.
4. Screens and fans in all the bedrooms. This was a HUGE bonus for us as several of us are highly affected by mozzi bites and helps protect from Dengue Fever. We only saw a handful of mosquitos the whole time we were there and I credit how well the Locals keep their yards. There is little standing water anywhere and most of the debris is burned off regularly.
5. Tile floors to make kid spills an easy clean up, without worrying about permanent damage.
Cons:
1. Unless you also rent the house next door, it can be VERY loud. We had another Group next door the 1st week we were there which made it tough to sleep given the noise, but a good pair of earplugs will help sort this. I would recommend bringing earplugs anyway since the local roosters seem to think the sun is rising at 1am on some occasions. That being said, next time we come, we may just have to rent out both houses and bring more Mates. It would be an ideal set-up for a large group, since you share a common yard and are steps away from each other. This was also a benefit as our kids really enjoyed playing with the neighbors while they were there.
2. Glass on the beach. This is likely an issue everywhere. We made an effort to pick up the glass every morning, but a fair bit would wash up on the beach each day. We seemed to avoid any cut feet, but it would be worth checking the beach in the mornings before the kids are let loose.
3. Dog poo. There are a fair bit of dogs that roam the neighborhood freely, and many actually are pets. They aren't aggressive at all (one of my kids are terrified of dogs, and they were fine with them), but you do have to keep an eye out for dog poo. That is one of the downsides of a huge back yard area....odds are there will be dog/cat poo somewhere.
4. Not the most comfortable beds or pillows. Hubby struggles with a bad back and he had some difficulty sleeping in the larger bed. The bunks are really only suitable for kids, as I had to sleep in one for a few nights and at 61kgs, I could feel the bars on my back and butt. The pillows are quite thin, but we found trading pillows amongst the rooms, we all found a pillow that worked.
5. Bring toilet paper or buy it from the big supermarket near the airport. The initial toilet paper is provided, but it's best to not get shorthanded ;) Buy an 8 or 12 roll pack when you arrive, just to make sure you have enough to last your visit. That being said, John came to the rescue when we ran out, but it seems the norm with a lot of the accommodation that you provide toilet paper once you run out. May not be an issue for a day or 2, but if you are staying for 9 days as we did, it's best to stock up!
