In the idyllic Cook Islands, nestled in the South Pacific, Baruch Weitzman, the only Israeli resident on the island of Rarotonga, has opened the Ocean Escape Resort & Spa, a beachfront villa hotel.
In an interview, Weitzman shared his story: "My life took an unexpected turn. I went on a trip 35 years ago, got stuck here, and ended up opening a hotel."
Seven years ago, Weitzman married his wife and they spent two weeks in the Cook Islands. "We fell in love with the island, the people and the atmosphere," he said. "It's peaceful, like a small village or kibbutz in Israel 30 years ago. Everyone knows each other, supports each other, and lives a simple life—no luxury cars, no mansions—just the real taste of life: friends, people, family, and balanced living. That's what drew us here, escaping the global rat race."
Weitzman emphasized that progress hasn’t overtaken the island, and they prefer it that way. "There are no chains here—no McDonald's or big supermarkets. There's only one store for each thing: one bank, one supermarket, one of everything. We have all we need, just without too many choices."
The Cook Islands consist of two island groups in the South Pacific, about 18,000 kilometers from Israel. Despite being named after British explorer James Cook, he never actually visited them.
The islands are part of the Realm of New Zealand, handling foreign relations through New Zealand, but gained partial autonomy in 1965. Citizens hold New Zealand passports, and the local currency is the New Zealand dollar, making it an expensive destination for Israeli tourists.
"It's not a place for young adventurers or trekking," Weitzman explained. "The island is small—just an hour's drive around it—so it’s more of a relaxation spot, ideal for couples aged 30 to 50 or those on a honeymoon."
A key part of visiting the Cook Islands is connecting with the locals, who trace their Polynesian roots back to the 6th century. Known for their joy, simplicity, and warm hospitality, the islanders, particularly on Rarotonga where Weitzman’s hotel is located, are welcoming and proud of their heritage. The population is small, with around 17,500 residents, 14,000 of whom live on Rarotonga.
Weitzman revealed that the locals hold a deep affection for Israel, believing they are descendants of the Tribe of Manasseh, an idea supported by an Australian rabbi who confirmed their genealogy. "They see themselves as the lost tribe who traded across the world, eventually reaching the Cook Islands and continuing their lineage."
Israeli visitors to the Cook Islands will find a warm reception. "Unfortunately, there are places in the world where being Israeli is something you need to hide. Here, it’s the opposite. Being Israeli has opened many doors for me. In the main church of the town, there are two small flags—Cook Islands and New Zealand—and one large, central flag of Israel. After October 7, there were marches in support of Israel. For them, we are the chosen people, with a full right to the land of Israel, and they hope we can fulfill that right. It’s heartwarming."
A builder and architect by profession, Weitzman spent many years in Australia, where he owned a construction company before deciding to make a change seven years ago. He bought three acres of land on the island and turned the empty lot into a modern 12-villa resort with a bar, restaurant, and spa. Though the resort has been operating for over a year, the restaurant, overlooking both the sea and the pool, has yet to open. Weitzman, who is upgrading it himself, says, "I miss the food from Israel, so if I’m going to open a restaurant, it has to be one that brings the flavors of Israel to paradise at the end of the world."
Since October 7, as the only Israeli on the island, Weitzman feels a strong sense of duty to share Israel’s story with tourists staying at his hotel. At the reception desk, an Israeli flag is displayed on the computer screen, and recently, an Israeli couple left a small sign that reads, "Am Yisrael Chai, Bring Them Home Now."
"I was so happy and moved to host Israeli guests for the first time," Weitzman said. "I keep the sign right in front of me so I can explain to people from around the world what’s happening in Israel right now. I feel it’s a great privilege and responsibility for me. So, take care of yourselves, and God willing, may you know peace and love, and may all this chaos end soon—maybe then you'll be able to visit the paradise I’ve found here."