More about Tonga…
O! Tonga…Tonga, a place like no other on earth. It is written that it is the last place that is heaven on earth. And it sure is.
The generous nature, the kindness and reserved warmth of the people alone are transformative. (It sure has transformed me forever)
It is such a place of miracles that you will think of something and it has happened already. (Be ready to receive! A lot!)
It is in a way untouched, pure. The landscape and the people. It is probably one of the safest places on earth.
Tonga is the only kingdom in the Pacific since Taufa'ahau (King George) in 1875 declared Tonga a constitutional monarchy. The government is largely controlled by the king, his nominees, and a small group of hereditary nobles.
It is a beautiful and humble kingdom.
Christianity is the predominant religion. It is well observed, especially on Sundays, when you can hear the beautiful singing vibrating through the island silence.
It is so peaceful here, that it is even safe to swim with the whales in the wild in Tonga! Tonga is one of the only places in the world where people are able to get in the ocean and get up close and personal with Humpback whales in their mating and calving season.
English is spoken by most people so you will have no problems communicating with folks while wondering around town. (Remember Tongans are shy, don’t mistake their reserved nature with unfriendliness or unwillingness)
The climate in Tonga is very pleasant, slightly cooler and less humid than Fiji and Samoa. The winter months (June to September/October) tend to be the best months for travel, with temperatures ranging from 70-90ºF.
Where in the world is Tonga?
Located in Oceania, Tonga is an archipelago of 176 islands (36 inhabited) located in the South Pacific Ocean. The three largest islands are Tongatapu, Ha'apai, and Vava'u, with Tongatapu being the most populated. It is directly south of Samoa and about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand.
It is a two to three-hour flight from, Auckland, New Zealand or Nadi, Fiji.