Tonga

Tonga, 169 islands in the Southeast Fijo Pacific

Tonga was named “The Friendly Islands” by Captain Cook, is an archipelago of 169 islands in the southeast Fiji Pacific, and generally has limestone and coral or volcanic foundations. With a history that includes settlements dating from 500 BC. C., and the site of the famous Christian-led Funty mutiny of the Bounty in 1789, Tonga was part of a united Polynesian kingdom in 1845, and has been independent since 1970 and is the only monarchy in the Pacific, and has a stable economy based in agriculture and tourism.

Tongan culture is typically Polynesian and Tongans are welcoming, laid back, and known for their hospitality. As with most countries in the region, the family is the central unit of Tonga’s life, and the elderly have the most respect. Traditional dress and dance are still very important in Tongan culture, and making cloth with lids and weaving rugs is an everyday part of Tongan life, with women gathering in small groups to knit and chat, a bit like a Tongan version of a knitting circle. Thanks to the country’s colonial heritage, about 98 percent of the population is Christian, and the vast majority of Tongans go to church every Sunday; If you have the opportunity to join them, take it, it is a cultural experience that you should not miss.

The picturesque island of Tonga comprises three groups of islands, including Tongatapu, Ha’apai and Vava’u. The wonderful Ocean of Tonga, on the Pacific Island, covers a total area of ​​800 kilometers from north to south. Tongatapu is the largest island in Tonga; Nuku’alofa, the capital of Tonga, is located on the beautiful island of Tongatapu. Tonga’s charming tourist destination covers a total area of ​​748 square kilometers. Tonga’s highest point is about 1033 meters high. Tonga Island encompasses 419 kilometers of beautiful coastal areas.

The Haappai consists of about 60 low coral atolls, but there is only accommodation for three. This is a very traditional place and camping is very common here. People can relax on the beaches and snorkeling is available if you choose to go. Tonga’s most attractive location is the myriad of Limestone Island and the waterways that make up the Vavau group. There is a resort called Neiafu and it also has some small bars and restaurants. So that tourists can relax and eat whenever they want.

Kenutu and Mounnu also have some beaches, but this is not the main attraction here. Navigation is what these places are famous for, this place is ideal and known for it. It is also a good place for sport fishing, diving and snorkelling. There are also a few whales found here, which is a great hobby for travelers.

Visitors will be very happy to spend their time on this island. There is so much to do and so many great things to see. They will not only enjoy the sights and scenes of the island, but they will also enjoy the warmth and hospitality of the people here. People treat guests and warmly welcome tourists. A visit to Tonga does not end with just visiting the beautiful islands. Tourists visiting Tonga can also hike through the Pacific Rainforests and Crater Lakes. If that’s not enough, the adventurer type can get very close to some active volcanoes. You can also see the shipwrecks, which occurred many years ago, which have now become the main tourist attractions.

Under water canyons, cliffs by the sea, or watching the local rugby team play can also be part of a tourist’s itinerary. If you go to Tonga for your holidays, you will be greeted with a special drink called kava, which is famous in Tonga.

Tonga is the best place to find authentic handicrafts from the South Pacific. Traditional art and crafts, including intricate bone carving, woodcarving, fine weaving, and basketry, are available at markets and specialty stores. The two most important handicrafts in Tonga are the manufacture of covers and the weaving of mats. The impressive work on display is often sold directly by responsible artisans, so buyers also take home a personal connection to these beautiful islands in the South Pacific. It is made from the bark of the mulberry tree, known locally as hiapo, the cover cloth is of great cultural importance in Tonga. It is an important traditional gift where each cover piece is unique and different, making it an extremely authentic keepsake. The entire lid is still proudly handmade.

In Tonga, you can take a boat trip to swim with magnificent and elegant humpback whales between July and October. Tonga is one of the few places where you can do this and for many visitors it is a life changing experience. These giant cetaceans return to the same spot in the Pacific from Antarctica each year to reproduce and give birth in the warm, clear waters. Experienced local guides assess the whales’ readiness to interact with humans before taking small groups into the water, one at a time. A whale bath is often considered one of the best things to do in Tonga.

The beautiful islands of Oceania

 

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