tonga_en

Updated 19 February 2014

Photo: Sarah Kelemen

Tonga


Photo: Steve Bozak

Photo: alantankenghoe

In the very heart of the South Pacific lies Tonga – one of the most scenic and unspoiled of thePacific Island nations – comprising of 176 coral and volcanic islands, only 36 of which areinhabited. The ancient Kingdom of Tonga can boast being the oldest and last remainingPolynesian monarchy, and its friendly and welcoming people are along with its deserted beaches,enchanting festivals and amazing coral reefs some of the Kingdoms finest assets. This tropicalplayground has something for everyone – fantastic snorkeling, diving and fishing, or for thosethat prefer to take life a little easier, the relaxed lifestyle, brilliant sunsets and excellent dining willsurely entice.

Top 5

Water SportsSurrounded by coral gardens and with the water soclear in places you can see 40 metres down, theislands of Tonga offer premi...Tongan National CentreOn the main island Tongatapu, you can gain aninsight into the history of the Kingdom of Tonga byvisiting the Tongan National...Mapu ’a VaeaThe amazing Mapu ’a Vaea or Blowholes, extend for5km along the south shore on Tongatapu. Theirname Mapu ’a Vaea means ’Chie...Tongatapu Island TourJoin a Tongatapu Island Tour to see the Royal Palace,Royal Tombs, the Blow Holes, Flying foxes and, onthe western side of th...Eua National ParkOn Eua, the National Park is considered one of thebest walks in the South Pacific. Walk through pristineforest, explore the...

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THE COUNTRY


Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the South Pacic, Tonga is divided into four distinct island groups, eachscenically diverse.

The main island in the south, Tongatapu, is Tonga’s cultural centre and the home of the Kingdom’s capital,Nuku’alofa. This is also where the Royal Family resides. Tothe north lay the Ha’apai group, a chain of delightfullyattractive low-lying atolls – the dream destination fordivers and anglers. Beyond Ha’apai is the Vava’u group,considered Tonga’s sailing centre – where a paradise oflush tropical landscapes, a deep water harbour, rockislands and limestone caves awaits you. Niuas, an isolatedtrio of volcanic islands where traditional Tongan culturestill thrives, marks the extreme northern reaches of thisbeautiful South Pacic nation.

The people of Tonga are welcoming, relaxed and deeply traditional. Craft is a social aair within a Tongan village –it brings the people together, and celebrating with friendsand family is an important part of their society. Anyoccasion can become a reason for dancing, singing andfeasting. The Heilala Festival, held annually in July, is theKingdom’s largest festival celebrating the Crown Prince’sbirthday. Indeed, the Kingdom of Tonga is a ‘jewel in thePacic.’

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Destination: TongaPublishing date: 2014-02-19

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DO & SEE

Photo: Steve Bozak

For travellers, the array of unique settings provides experiences suited for everyone and every budget. There’sisolated white sandy beaches for soaking in the sun andtaking life easy, dense rainforests teaming with exotic oraand fauna to tempt adventurers and naturalists, and amagnicent colourful underwater playground wherestriking tropical sh dart in and out of incredible coralstructures.

Water Sports

Surrounded by coral gardens and with the water so clear in places you can see 40 metres down, the islands ofTonga oer premium diving and snorkelling experiences.Swim inside the Swallows Cave and dive into MarinersCave from the island of Vava’u. From Ha’apai, viewcaptivating marine life and colourful corals. Discover the"The Green Wall" of Ha’ano Islands – a long drop-o thatplunges towards the great Tongan trench.

Address: Ha’apai, Tonga

Tongan National Centre

On the main island Tongatapu, you can gain an insight intothe history of the Kingdom of Tonga by visiting theTongan National Centre. It contains many historicalartifacts and the cultural tours are very good value. Youcan witness traditional dancing, locals make tapa, weavebaskets and carve. At the dinner show you will experiencetraditional dishes – many cooked in an underground oven– an umu – then afterwards be entertained by dancers and

musicians. It is one of the highlights of the tours aroundthe island of Tongatapu.

Address: Fanga’uta Lagoon, Tongatapu

Mapu ’a Vaea

The amazing Mapu ’a Vaea or Blowholes, extend for 5km along the south shore on Tongatapu. Their name Mapu ’aVaea means ‘’Chief’s Whistles’ and you can see the waterforced through the natural vents in the coral limestoneclis sometimes up to 30 metres in height.

Address: Houma, Tongatapu

Tongatapu Island Tour

Join a Tongatapu Island Tour to see the Royal Palace, Royal Tombs, the Blow Holes, Flying foxes and, on thewestern side of the island, the enthralling Ha’amongaTrilithon, the Stonehenge of the South Pacic and theancient capital of Mu’a with its fascinating Terrace Tombson the East.

Address: TongatapuPhone: +676 29910

Eua National Park

On ‘Eua, the National Park is considered one of the best walks in the South Pacic. Walk through pristine forest,explore the rugged southern coastline, caves, chasms,waterfalls and see panoramic views. You may hear theraucous cry of the ‘koki – or red-breasted musk parrot –found only on ‘Eua. It is a great trip for t people who arekeen on nature and adventure. A guide is essential. Thetrip takes 7 hours and is not suitable for children under 12years. It is easy to get to ‘Eua, you can either go therewith a ferry from Nuku’alofa and takes about two hours, orby ight witch only takes 8 minutes for a trip.

Address: ‘Eua, TongaPhone: +676 50254Internet: www.eua-island-tonga.com


Tofau

For a real adventure, travel to Tofua and hike. There is a remote volcano, where, with planning, you can camp in itscrater.

Address: Tofua, Tonga

Whale watching

From June to November hundreds of humpback whales call the warm waters surrounding the islands of Tongahome. The islands of Vava’u have particularly largenumbers of whales utilizing the area as a nursery. Manytours operate boats for closer viewing.

Whale Watch Vava’u is a tour operator that can organise your whale watching trip.

Address: Vava’u, TongaPhone: +676 775 4331Internet: www.whalewatchvavau.com

DINING

Photo: alantankenghoe

With access to some of the best shing waters in the South Pacic, you can be assured of sumptuous seafoodin Tonga. There is a large choice of venues from alfrescodining on the ocean’s edge to hidden cafés in therainforest. On Tongatapu, you will nd a large selection ofeateries along Vuna Road which stretches along thewaterfront. Many fales will provide breakfast and dinnerwith a number also providing snacks during the day.

The Fish Market

The local Fish Market in Tongatapu, open every Saturday morning, is a must to pick up fresh produce.

Address: Tongatapu

Seaview Restaurant

Seaview Restaurant located on Tongatapu, is recognized as the top restaurant in Tonga and one of the best in theentire South Pacic. It specializes in seafood, but also hasother dishes that will keep you coming back time andagain.

Address: Vuna Road, Nuku’alofa, TongatapuOpening hours: Closed on SundaysPhone: +676 26 903Internet: www.seaview-lodge.com

Waterfront Restaurant

At the Waterfront Restaurant, take in the décor, food, service and the hosts, then add a dash of Italy and theromance of the Pacic and you are set for a wonderfulnight out.

Address: Vuna Road, Ma'ufanga, Nuku’alofaPhone: +676 24 692Internet: www.waterfront-lodge.com

Luna Rossa Restaurant

Luna Rossa Restaurant is famous for great tasting, home-made tagliatelle pasta.

Address: Lagoon Lodge, Nuku'alofa, TongatapuPhone: +676 26 324

Little Italy Hotel & Restaurant

For a taste of Italy in Tonga, visit Little Italy Pizzeria for authentic Italian pizza, Italian dishes and desserts. It islocated 5 blocks west of Royal Palace.

Address: Vuna rd, Kolomotu'a, Nuku'alofaPhone: +676 25 053More Info: Little Italy Hotel


La Paella Restaurant

La Paella Restaurant located on Tapana Island only a shortboat ride from Neiafu or ’Ano Beach, combines a touch ofSpain, a dash of the Pacic, a taste of paradise withevening entertainment.

Address: Tapana Is, Pangaimotu, Neiafu, Vava'uPhone: +676 70 348More Info: A short boat ride from Neiafu or 'Ano Beach

Blue Lagoon Resort

The Blue Lagoon Resort is one of the surprises of the Pacic – this is where people queue in their yachts to geta table! It has a wonderful view over the lagoon and thesurrounding reefs.

Address: Foiata Island, Vava’uPhone: +676 70 018Internet: www.bluelagoontonga.com/cuisine

CAFES

Photo: U.S. Army

Cafés oer a wide choice of meals for breakfast and lunch and also a tremendous selection of snacks throughout theday. Most are located along the waterfront of Vuna Roadon Tongatapu.

‘Ene’io Visitors Centre & Cafe

Ene’io Botanical Gardens is open every day and oer live workshops right by the beautiful Ene’io Beach. This is alsoa great place for swimming, snorkelling and surng. Whenyou're tired of activities, take a break at the beach frontcafé.

Address: Ene’io Beach, Vava’uPhone: +676 867 1048Internet: www.eneio.com

The Aquarium Café

The Aquarium Café has English speaking sta and they host several events at the café. You can have breakfast,lunch and dinner here and as a fully licensed café you canalso indulge yourself with a delicious cocktail. Visitors tothe café can use free Wi-Fi.

Address: Fangafoa Marina, NeiafuPhone: +676 70 493Internet: www.aquariumcafevavau.comMore Info: Down the driveway to the waterfront at Fangafoa Marina, Neiafu

Friends Café

Friends Café, the opposite corner of the post oce, has great coee and food with the daily menu oering seafoodchowder that is one of the best. This is a popular place forvisitors and locals.

Address: Nuku’alofa, TongaPhone: +676 22 390Internet: www.friendstonga.com

Café Escape

Café Escape oers a large choice of meals for breakfast and lunch and also a tremendous selection of snacksthroughout the day. There’s a lounge to relax on, internetto inform you and music to please you.

Address: Taufa’ahau Road, Nuku’alofa, TongatapuPhone: +676 21 212

Coconet Café

At the Coconet Café not only can you enjoy a drink and surf on internet, you can even have your laundry done asyou relax in this cafe on Vava’u Island. It is located besidethe small boat marina in the town centre.

Address: Neiafu, Vava’uPhone: +676 71 311


BARS & NIGHTLIFE

Photo: Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Sta

The nightlife in Tonga is lled with enthusiasm and zest. It is very diverse – from high-class bars to those with lessthan an upmarket reputation – it just goes to show thatTonga believes in catering for every taste and fancy. Allbars close at midnight on Saturday nights.

Tonga Bob's

Tonga Bob's bar has big screen Sky Sport Telecasts, a wellworn pool table and a wide array of beer and drinks. Theyalso have shows, live bands and quizzes.

Address: Neiafu, Vava`U, TongaPhone: +676 755 9220

Dinner Show at the Tongan National CultureCentre

The Tongan National Culture Centre hosts an entertaining dinner show every Thursday evening. This includes atraditional kava welcoming ceremony and excellent foodwhile enjoying music, dance and songs of Tonga.

Address: Taufa’ahau Road, Tonga

Phone: +676 23 022

Toni’s Guest House

Kava drinking circles are often an invite-only aair and usually for men only. However, if you are of the femalegender and want to taste this illustrious South Pacicbeverage then pop into Toni’s Guest House, which oftenlets women sit and sip along with their male counterparts.

Address: Tofoakoloua, TongatapuPhone: +676 21 049Internet: www.tonisguesthouse.com

The Billfish Bar

The Billsh Bar is easily the most popular bar in town. It is a relaxed open-air place draped in ags and shingtrophies and has a gravel oor and a great vibe. Ikale andSteinlager are on tap and there are plenty of otherimported drinks in which to indulge. Live music of varyingquality is played for the dance oor on Wednesday andFriday nights and karaoke is popular.

Address: Vuna Rd, Nuku’alofa, TongatapuPhone: +676 24 084

The Waterfront Café

The Waterfront Café has a more upmarket social atmosphere with cocktails for the sunset – a great way tonish the day.

Address: Vuna Road, Ma’ufanga, TongaPhone: +676 24 692Internet: www.waterfront-lodge.com


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SHOPPING

Photo: Klaus Nahr

Tongans are renowned for their handicrafts, in particular their large and intricate tapa cloths which make theperfect Tongan souvenir. These are made from the stemof the mulberry tree which is beaten into a pulp and nallymade into the large cloths measuring at least 20 squarefeet. Ngatu is a plain tapa cloth, designed with a stencilledpattern from natural dyes, and are presented at importantgatherings. You can purchase small lengths of this uniquecloth at the markets in Nukualofa. Mats are anotherimportant item to Tongan families. They are woven fromstrips of pandanus leaves and traditionally made by thewomen.

For those truly interested in purchasing ne handicrafts, visit the Women’s Handicraft Centre in the heart ofNukualofa. Exceptional examples of traditional craft can beseen at the Tongan National Centre at Tofoa. Souvenirs,carvings in wood, shell and bone are prized and one of thebest places to pick up excellent carvings at reasonableprices is Art of Tonga, located in the Fund ManagementBuilding on Taufa’ahau Road. It is a small shop, but don’tlet that fool you, for the quality of wares they sell is verygood. Be mindful when buying that you are purchasing agenuine article.

Wood has been a scarcity in Tonga for a long time and therefore wood carvings are becoming increasingly prized,due to the decrease in forest timbers. The Flea Marketsheld every Saturday morning are great for a bargain.

Tonga’s stamps rival those of other South Pacic nationsfor collectors who admire their colour and signicance forhistorical events of the Kingdom. The Philatelic Bureau islocated at the corner of Taufa’ahau and Salote Roads.

Shop at the vibrant Tongatapu Food and Fish Market for fresh food each Saturday morning and check out ‘AlatiniFoodland and Si’i-Kae-Ola Supermarket, along Taufa’ahauRoad, for your shopping needs or the Molisi Supermarketfor general food during your stay.

ACCOMMODATION

Photo: Jacopo Romei

No matter your budget or taste, there is accommodation in Tonga to suit – from beach front luxury apartments todormitory style and traditional thatched fales.

Fales are a popular choice of accommodation for a South Pacic holiday. These are thatched-roofed and generallyopen sided bungalows, though some do have blinds formore privacy. The quality and service of fales can varygreatly. Most have mosquito nets and sleeping matsprovided.

Guests usually share amenities for showering and toilets –some have cold water only. There is a good range ofmid-range and budget accommodation on the main andouter islands. Camp sites are available at the GoodSamaritan Inn on Ha’atafu Beach and on the little island ofPangaimotu just oshore from Nuku’alofa.


Ha’atafu Beach Resort

If you are looking for a surng holiday, then Ha’atafu BeachResort, set on a magnicent beach on the western side ofTongatapu Island, is THE place in Tonga. This is also oneof Tonga’s premier snorkelling locations. Beachfront andgarden traditional thatched roof fales and dormitoryaccommodation are available. Breakfast and buet dinneris served.

Address: Ha’atafu Beach, TongatapuPhone: +676 41 088Internet: www.surngtonga.comEmail: [email protected]

Waterfront Lodges

For luxury on Tongatapu, the Waterfront Lodges is exceptional. The lodge boasts a beautiful sea view,excellent services and luxury accommodation.

Address: Vuna Road, TongaPhone: +676 24 692Internet: www.waterfront-lodge.com

Fafa Island Resort

Set on a palm-covered island 30 minutes by motor sailer from Tongatapu, Fafa Island Resort is renowned as one ofthe nest resorts in Tonga, oering total peace andrelaxation in a casual and friendly atmosphere. The 14secluded bungalows are built in traditional Tongan stylewith verandas facing the ocean and with semi-openbathrooms. The beachfront bar serves Asian and Tongancuisine and guests can use snorkelling gear, surf skies,volleyball and French boules for free.

Address: Fafa Island, Nuku’alofa, TongaPhone: +676 22 800Internet: www.fafaislandresort.comEmail: [email protected]

Matafonua Lodge

Matafonua Lodge is a lovely resort situated on the spectacular Northern tip of Foa Island, with one of Tonga’smost beautiful beaches on one side, and rocky pools andcoral reefs to explore on the other.

Address: Pangai, Ha’apai, TongaPhone: +676 69 766Internet: www.matafonua.com

Blue Lagoon Resort

Blue Lagoon Resort on Foeata Island, about 45 minutes byboat from Neiafu Harbour, overlooks the water and awhite sandy beach and has a spectacularly locatedrestaurant.

Address: Foiata Island, Vava’u, TongaPhone: +676 751 6455Internet: www.bluelagoontonga.com

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

Photo: Baishampayan Ghose

Airport

International Airports are located on Tongatapu – Fua’amotu International Airport is located 21km south ofthe capital Nuku’alofa and Vava’u – Lupepau’uInternational Airport lies 10km north of the capital Neiafu.


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Chathams Pacic is currently the only domestic airline servicing the Kingdom of Tonga. They commencedoperations in the Kingdom of Tonga in April 2008 andnow have a eet of 6 aircraft servicing 6 ports (’Eua,Tongatapu, Ha’apai, Vava’u, Niuatoputapu and Niuafo’ou).

Polynesian Blue Airlines ies to Tonga several times per week from Australia and New Zealand with connectionsfrom most cities. There is no public bus service directly tothe airport, but shuttles and taxis are available oninternational ights. Most accommodation in Nuku’alofaprovides pick-up services for their guests if you let themknow in advance. Teta Tours provides transfers to andfrom the domestic and international airport.

Internet: www.tongaairports.com

Ferry

The MV Olovaha travels from Nuku’alofa, Tongatapu to Neiafu, Vava’u via Ha’afeva and Pangai in the Ha’apaigroup, depart on Tuesday and arrive on Wednesday. Thereturn journey from Vava’u to Nuku’alofa departsThursday. Schedules can vary, so it is best to check witheither the Shipping Corporation of Tonga or Tonga VisitorsBureau for the latest schedules. If you plan to travelstraight out to the northern islands, check departure timesprior to your arrival.

Phone: +676 23 853Internet: www.vavau.to

Rental Cars

Visitors are required to obtain a temporary driver’s license to rent a car. The test is usually to produce your homelicense, your passport and a fee. People drive very slowlyin Tonga, observing all the rules of 40 km/hr in towns andvillages and outside these areas 65 km/hr.

Bicycle Hire

Bicycles are a cheap and fun mode of transportation around the main island. Many guest houses have bicyclesfor hire or complimentary use. Niko’s Bicycle Rental is run

from a trailer opposite the Dateline Hotel on Vuna Road.

Address: Vuna RoadOpening hours: Mon, Tue and Thu-Sat 08:00-17:00

Bus

The buses in Tonga are an inexpensive way of getting around. There is no scheduled timetable, however, busesusually start early in the morning around 8:00 and rununtil 17:00 and no buses operate on Sundays. It isadvisable if you have travelled out of Nuku’alofa for theday that you are on a bus for return into town by 15:00.

There are two central bus stations located along Vuna Road in Nuku’alofa. Opposite the Tonga Visitors Bureauoce, is the Central Bus Station that takes you to theHospital and around the town area. To travel to the fareastern and western districts, catch a bus from the stationopposite the Ministry of Education building.

Taxi

Recognise a taxi by the ”T” in front of the numbers/letters of the number plate. They are not permitted to operate onSundays. Please ensure you ask for the taxi fare to acertain place before you agree to pay or get on. There arenumerous taxis on Tongatapu and Vava’u and elsewherevery few or none.

Holiday Taxi+676 25 169

Post

Main Post Oce

Address: Nuku’alofaOpening hours: Mon-Fri 08:30-16:00Phone: +676 21 700More Info: Corner of Taufa’ahau and Salote Roads

Pharmacy

Friendly Island Health Clinic

Address: Longolongo, Tonga


Phone: +676 25 725

Telephone

Country code: +676

Electricity

240 volts

Population104,000

Currency1 pa’anga = 100 seniti (cents)

Opening hoursMost shops are open Mon-Fri 08:30-16:30, Saturday 9:00-13:00. Almost everything is closed on Sundays.

NewspapersThe Tonga ChronicleTimes of TongaTalakiKele’a

Emergency numbersPolice: 922Ambulance: 933Electricity: 944Fire: 999

Tourist informationTonga Visitors Bureau Vuna Road, Nuku’alofa, Tonga+676 25 334


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