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- Tonga
Tonga
Tonga was referred to by Captain Cook as "The Friendly Islands".
Spread south of Samoa for 500 miles(800 km), the 171 islands
comprise the Pacific's last monarchy and only Pacific nation never
to be colonized. Proud of their history, Tongan culture runs deep
in the 48 inhabited islands.
The image of an idyllic island kingdom was tarnished recently
when the beloved King Tupou IV died and succession was handed to
his less revered son King George Tupou V. Never one to mingle with
locals, King Tupou V preferred a British aristocratic manner. Known
for his fondness for ornate military uniforms and travelling in a
chauffeured British taxi to and from his hillside villa, the Tongan
people finally had enough. Pro Democracy riots damaged much of the
capitol Nukualofa in 2006. Just before coronation King Tupou V
relinquished much of his power as well as many private businesses
interests in appeasement. Yet such an ornate dresser was not to
become king without style as he threw a party worth $2.5 million, a
significant part of the country's annual budget.
Tonga has returned to a relaxed atmosphere where travellers
usually find a bit of respite from the stressors of the modern
world. It is often the destination of water sports enthusiasts.
Yacht charters are popular for exploring the islands of Vava'u and
Neiafu. Diving off coral reefs or snorkelling close to shore are
both available for beginners to experts on many of the islands.
Coral reef surfing swells are reserved for experienced water souls.
The presence of humpback whales in Tongan waters make this a winter
holiday destination too.
While the people are friendly and the culture relaxed,
traditional Christian values predominate. However, many Christian
traditions are mixed with older Polynesian customs and festivals.
The capitol and commercial centre Nukualofa is also experiencing a
blend of western influence.
Getting to Tonga is easy as regular flights arrive from many
destinations to the main island Tongatapu. Travel within the
islands is through ferry service or plane and one should not expect
the same degree of tourist development as many popular beach
destinations; yet this isolation is intrinsic to Tonga's charm.
Information & Facts
Customs
Local customs in Tonga tend to be conservative, and the
population is predominantly Christian. Toplessness is illegal for
both men and women, and it is advised to keep your knees covered at
all times. When greeting a stranger, a handshake is appropriate,
however family members will press their noses together and exhale
loudly. It is acceptable to eat with your hands, and it is
customary to wash your hands before and after the meal. Sundays are
reserved mainly for religious worship and most restaurants and
shops will be closed. While Tonga culture is conservative, its
people are warm and hospitable. If staying with or visiting a local
family, it is customary to bring a gift.
Duty Free
Visitors to Tonga over the age of 18 years may freely import a
camera and personal belongings; 500 cigarettes or 500g of cigars or
250g of loose tobacco; and 2.25 litres of spirits or 4.5 litres of
wine or beer for those over 21 years. Restrictions apply to fresh
foodstuffs such as meat and dairy products.
Passport Visa
Visitors must hold documents and tickets for their return/onward
journey and sufficient funds to cover their stay. It is highly
recommended that passports have at least six months validity
remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel
destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to
those stated by travel agents and official sources.