Makayla Palms

Rarotonga is a place without any world class hotel and to find the four best places to stay was quite a challenge. When looking at the highest rates and best reviews Makayla Palms came up as an option while it was the first time I stayed in a place which wasn’t really a hotel.

Makayla Palms only has three villas and no facilities or reception like in a normal hotel. It’s listed as specialty lodging on Tripadvisor and that is just about the right describtion. Two of the villas is the same and the third is a big two bedroom villa which is perfect for families.

I stayed in one of the two standard villas and it was great. Very comfortable bed, Tv, Sitting area, kitchen and a bathroom with shower. All very comfortable. When only having three rooms you can count on privacy which sometimes can be a nightmare in larger hotels. I have always written that service is the most important thing in a hotel. The two owners John&Rachel is some of the friendliest people I have met though my travels and they have done a great job with the place. They can be called 24 hours a day and can help you with anything during your stay.

My project is to stay in over 500 of the best hotels in over 100 countries, but once in a while there is destinations which don’t have world class hotels. As this was the case with Rarotonga I was very happy to have found Makayla Palms. I can highly recommend it as a peaceful place to stay in Rarotonga and as most resorts it’s only a few steps away from a great beach. High score for the villas and the owners, but a memorable experience is impossible to find in Rarotonga. As long as you only expect a great comfortable place to stay you will be very happy with this choice.

My opinion: Good experience.