Royal Sunset Island Resort

Tonga is comprised of 176 coral and volcanic islands, 36 of which are inhabited. The country is divided into four distinct parts, each scenically diverse. The main island in the south, Tongatapu, is Tonga's cultural centre and the home of the Kingdom's capital, Nuku'alofa. North lies the Ha'apai group, a chain of low lying atolls surrounded by clear turquoise waters.

Beyond Ha'apai lies the Vava'u group, a paradise of lush tropical landscapes, a deep water harbour, rock islands and limestone caves while in the extreme northern reaches are the Niuas, an isolated trio of volcanic islands where traditional Tongan culture still thrives.

Capital & Major Centres
Nuku'alofa, on Tongatapu, is the capital and home of the Royal Palace. Other major centres are Eua Island, an ideal retreat for hikers, adventurers and naturalists, and Vava'u Island which has two beautiful beaches on the main island and a scenic drive around the west coast with stunning views of Port of Refuge Harbour and the numerous outer islands. Ha'apai Island is a favourite with visitors who are invited to stay in the village and participate in all aspects of village life from 'kava' ceremonies, feasting and dancing to hunting 'feke' octopus with village fishermen in outrigger canoes.

The People
Polynesians by race, they speak Tongan and English. The majority of Tonga's 100,000 people live on Tongatapu.

History
Archaeologists claim Tonga has been inhabited since the 5th century BC. It was first discovered by Dutch navigators in 1616. They were followed by Tasman, Wallis, Captain Cook, Bligh of the Bounty whose sailors mutineered in Tongan waters, and the missionaries. Today the Kingdom of Tonga is ruled by King George Tupou V who reigns as a constitutional monarch. Formerly a British protectorate, Tonga gained its independence in 1970 and is now part of the British Commonwealth.

Nature
Vegetation is tropical with masses of hibiscus and frangipani, coconut groves, pandanus palms and banana plantations. Not far from Nuku'alofa, hundreds of flying foxes cling to high trees at Kolovai. Frigate birds are common, as are the Pacific golden plover, the Pacific black duck, swiftlets (Pacific swallows) and the blue crowned lorikeet. Tonga was the first Pacific island country to create marine parks or sanctuaries. Four such parks now exist which are rich in fish, coral and marine life.

The Sights
There are miles of white, sandy beaches fronting clear lagoons which hold some of the most beautiful and varied reefs in the world. The rocky, terraced coastline at Houma features one of the South Pacific's most impressive natural spectacles called the Blow Holes. Huge waves crash into the coral rock sending water spouts hissing 60 feet or more into the air. At the lagoon edge are the villages of Mu'a and Lapaha with several fascinating historical sites such as the Langi tombs in Lapaha.

Where to Stay
Accommodation varies from comfortable to very basic. There are hotels and motels, apartments and guesthouses, as well as off-shore resorts. Vava'u has resorts, motels and guesthouses in various categories, Ha'apai has eight guesthouses in Pangai town, plus resorts on Foa Island, Uoleva Island and Uiha Island whereas 'Eua Island has five guesthouses.

Getting Around
On Tongatapu, Vava'u, Ha'apai and Eua, the main forms of transport are bus, taxi, rental cars, passenger ferries and domestic airplanes.

Food & Entertainment
A visit to the Tongan National Centre is recommended for their feasts and entertainment. Most hotels and resorts also provide traditional feasts and dancing at least once a week.

Nuku'alofa has several ethnic restaurants including French, German, Indian, Chinese, Korean and Italian. A day trip to Pangaimotu Island Resort for lunch is also recommended for their seafood dishes and fruit platters. The resort is just a 10 minute boat trip from the Nuku'alofa wharf.

Activities
Tongans play many sports including rugby, soccer, netball, volleyball, basketball, golf, tennis as well as indigenous games.

There are also many water-based activities including diving, fishing, snorkelling, yachting, kayaking and whale watching.

Shopping Guide
Tongan handicrafts are known as some of the best in the South Pacific. Recommended retail outlets include the Langa Fonua, the Friendly Islands Marketing Co-operative, the Fehoko Art & Creations, the Talamahu Market and the Tongan National Centre.

Climate
Pleasant and slightly cooler than most tropical areas. Annual temperature 23°C.

Clothing
Casual clothes are recommended for most occasions.

Electricity
240 volts.

Time Zone
GMT +13 hours and AEST+3 hours.

Currency
The Tongan dollar or pa'anga equals 100 seniti (cents). No Tipping.

Visas & Health
Passport and outward ticket. Airport tax T$25 for all international departures, payable at the airport.

Getting There
Air New Zealand, Air Pacific, Pacific Blue and Polynesian Airlines.