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About Cocos Have you ever dreamed of lying in a hammock on a deserted island, where all you hear is the rhythmic sound of waves gently lapping the perfectly white sandy beach? Or wandering along the shores and not seeing a soul for hours? Then sitting and relaxing with a chilled glass of wine and watching the golden sun slowly sinking into the Indian Ocean? You must visit Cocos (Keeling) Islands, one of the most remote places and little known Territories of Australia. Located some 2700 kms north west of Perth, Cocos (Keeling) Islands were first recorded by Captain William Keeling in 1609. Steeped in history, the Islands were originally settled by Alexander Hare and the Clunies-Ross family in the early 1800's primarily for the cultivation and harvesting of copra, an activity that is no longer pursued. In fact, Cocos is free of any industry other than tourism, which is still in its infancy. Charles Darwin once graced the shores of Cocos, where he developed his well-known theory of atoll formation. Describing the Cocos (Keeling) Islands reef in 1836, he wrote: "The ocean throwing its waters over the broad reef appears an invincible, all-powerful enemy: yet we see it resisted, and even conquered, by means which at first seem most weak and inefficient". Unlike most holiday island destinations such as many of the Pacific Islands, Cocos (Keeling) Islands does not have huge resorts, shopping centres, restaurants, gift shops or organised activities. If these are high on your list of priorities, then Cocos may not be for you. Tourism on the Islands is uncomplicated and simplistic which enhances the beauty of the Islands. For residents and visitors, Cocos is a sanctuary and a safe haven for all to enjoy. Tourists are greeted by the locals and immediately feel as if they are a part of this close-knit community. SMILE and be made welcome! Tropical Cocos has two main seasons: the windy trade winds from April/May to September/October and the calmer doldrums from November through to April. The "wet season", February-May, can also generate the occasional low pressure system (cyclone), however rainfall usually visits this sandy atoll in the evenings, bringing glorious sunny days! Temperatures are fairly consistent no matter what the season, remaining around a comfortable 29° C with a minimum evening temperature rarely dropping below 20° C. Weather Link: Wunderground Cocos |
