I just returned from Raro and stayed at Ambala for two weeks. The property is lovely and very private, a special feature is the lovely pool area. I stayed in one of the self-contained rooms and found it clean and tidy with everything you need to cook dinner at night or watch a movie. What makes this place great are... more

We looked and looked for accommodation on Raro and after reading reviews for Ambala Garden Lodge we decided to book there. And we are sure glad we did. It is without the best B&B we have stayed in, and I dare say probably the best ever. The breakfasts were outstanding and the hospitality of Nancy and Esa went way beyond... more

The owners were away and I'm not sure if this was why things were not great, but the place was lacking care and attention to detail - the kitchen cupboards smelt so bad we had to wash each thing we wanted to use with boiling water first. Also if the family with small & noisy children upstairs had showers then... more

This was our second visit to the Cook Islands (last time 5 years ago). This visit was even better than expected. We chose Ambala Gardens from reading the great reviews it received. They were accurate on their rating. What a great experience! What phenomenal people Nancy and Esa are! We were treated like family almost immediately, comfortable there from the... more

I picked Ambala based on TripAdvisor reviews and there's not much I can add except to say that all the good stuff is true! Nancy's breakfasts are fantastic. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed. The location is great - Muri beach is definitely one of the best on the island. I definitely plan on coming back! more

We stayed with Nancy and Esa for a delightful and relaxing week in February '09. It was truly enjoyable. Their B&B is located in the middle of a generous and beautiful garden of tropical delights. We picked breadfruit, avocado and papaya which appeared on the menu the next morning as part of a sumptuous breakfast prepared each day by Nancy.... more

A friendly welcome from Nancy & Esa after a long haul flight was very much appreciated; they made you feel at home immediately. The Ambala Lodge is a great place to relax. The well kept swimming pool, an essential requirement if you are holidaying in Rarotonga, is beautifully positioned in a tropical garden. I would recommend the poolside appartment; spacious... more

If Muri Beach (just a short walk down the road) is THE best beach on Raro, then AMBALA GARDENS is THE best accommodation property on the island. Our 2 week visit was absolutely the most relaxing, enjoyable vacation we've experienced -- in a large part, to Esa and Nancy - the incredible hosts of the Ambala Gardens. From the property's... more

It's hard to add much to the accolades already here, except to say that we only had three nights with Nancy and Esa and regretted the short stay (needless to say we're planning to return!). Our hosts were both solicitous of our comfort and relaxed raconteurs, and Nancy's cooking featuring fresh Island produce is attractive and tasty. Lots of good... more