In December 2011, I travelled to Aitutaki. This was my first time to Aitutaki; despite being of Cook Islands decendant. From when we were picked up to when we were dropped off to Gina's Garden Lodge; I felt like our host was quite rude. Firstly, on our way to the Lodge (from the airport) we were asking questions about the location of certain places (eg. car hires, beach areas etc). Then suddenly, without our knowledge, she stopped at a car hire/ petrol station saying something like "the car hire here; go inside and ask". With that, we did not at all ask to be taken to a car hire nor were we wanting too as it was late in the afternoon, and we were tired, so we just wanted to settle in our place. Secondly, on our way to the accommodation our hosts decides to pull over, get out and say "this is a shop; come on" and she was gone. By the time I walked into the store, she had taken groceries (her own) to the counter and was ready to leave.Thirdly, when we went into the accommodation, all beds on both levels had gecko fieces. Curtains seemed like they have been there for years; with the dust building. And our towels looked like they were bleached and washed 10,000 times, as they were so warn out and thin -_-.

I believe we were treated differently because my mum is a Cook Islander (we travelled together) and she knew the lingo; however, that leaves no excuse to treat new travellers.

In November of 2011 we took our 16th trip to the South Pacific and our 5th trip to the Cook Islands. This was our first time at Gina's Garden Lodges. We loved the kitchenette, as it helped keep our costs under control, especially when considering the high cost of restaurants on Aitutaki. Its screened windows were a benefit and kept out almost all bugs. Since the island is small, the Lodges' inland location was not a problem. The beds were above average and room service was daily to keep things in ship shape. There was even a TV for when the rains came- a nice touch. Tutai and Des offer quantity discounts on price if one were to stay for extended periods of time here (which we did), making this property very affordable. Free airport pickup was nice as well. Our hosts advice on transportation rental and lagoon boat charters was great. Ours was mostly a business trip but this property would work for a pure vacation as well. We'll be back some day.

We'd stayed on the beach in Rarotonga so didn't mind staying in land on Aitutaki. We were also looking for a cheap option so Gina's worked well for us. We had a car which is a must if you're staying here.

Mrs Tutai Clarke - our host was very helpful both before we stayed, with informative emails, and during our stay. She picked us up from the airport and presented us with lovely fragrant leis, then took us promptly to the car rental place to hire a car. She helped us book a lagoon cruise and advised us on the best one to go on.

The lodge itself was very basic but all we needed for 3 nights. Just as well we don't mind geckos as we had a family of 6 in our lodge! More cute than anything. We had hoped to change to Gina's island accommodation for a change but unfortunately it wasn't operating.

Also a bonus having Tupuna's Restaurant 5 mins drive down the road.

The garden lodges are the right place to enjoy the tropical island 'away from it all'. The nicely landscaped property is 100m away from the next street. There are only four cottages on the property - surrounded by gerdens and bush. The owners did their best to help me with shopping groceries and renting a pushbike. This is the right place to relax and explore all corners of the island.