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Featured Book Moon Handbooks - South Pacific |
WaterPeople will tell you that, because it is chlorinated, the town water is fit to drink but tender tummies can still get upset so as a precaution to make the most of a holiday, probably best to drink bottled or boiled water.>Top
WeatherWhile in the tropics, Tonga is cooler than most other Pacific destinations. The average temperature is 24 degrees Celsius. While temps rarely hit 30 degrees, it can be quite humid from December to March (traditionally the ‘wet’ season). For a local weather update in Nuku’alofa ring 23 401 during business hours - or click here.>Top
WebsitesThis site is designed as an overview for travellers and we are more than happy to answer any questions cost and obligation free - just email here. Other handy sites for info, maps and answers to FAQs:
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WeddingsAt present there is a bill before the parliament to allow visitors to have a legally recognised marriage while in Tonga. Until then, couples wishing to wed in the tropics can opt for Vanuatu, Fiji, Cook Islands and Samoa - here’s a link to Resort Weddings.>Top
WhalesThese magnificent creatures abound in Tongan waters from July to October, particularly in Vava’u where over 100 humpback whales migrate to have their young before returning to the waters of the Antarctic. In October 2007, rugby icon Jonah Lomu joined the fight against whaling by fronting a campaign launched at the Pacific Island Leaders Forum in Nuku’alofa. The Jonah and the Whale campaign is in response to the Government of Japan’s intention to kill more than 1000 whales including 50 humpbacks as part of its sushi gathering… sorry… “scientific research” whaling program in the Southern Ocean Whale Sanctuary, commencing this November.>Top
Whale WatchingLots of tour operators offer whale-watching trips (expect to see 6 to 10 in a day). To maximise profits from this unique experience the Tongan government has set a minimum charge of T$95 per person. Some operators offer swimming/snorkelling with whales but there is an element of risk because nursing mothers can be unpredictable and it may be an activity that leads to changing the behaviour of the whales. While the Tongan government has guidelines that swimmers must stay at least 30 metres from whales, this isn’t always observed. Some boats have been known to go within five metres of whale pods, which must be disconcerting to these wonderful cetaceans. Sharks can be found in areas where whales are, particularly calves and there has been an attack. It is another reason we recommend whale-watching be done from a boat rather than in the water. Also, because whales like deep water, the seas can get choppy with unpredictable currents - challenging conditions for some swimmers. And another - because it is a high-risk activity, your travel insurance probably won’t cover any misfortune. Have we convinced you? If you take a whale-watching tour, make sure you take a hat and sunscreen and look for an operator with a roof on the boat. There are around a dozen whale tour operators on Vava’u. Whale Discoveries is one that has taken an eco-tourism decision and doesn’t allow swimming. They are based in Toula at the Adventure Centre and the company’s website is www.whalediscoveries.com. Their boat, Tropic Bird has a canopy and comfortable seats 14 passengers and two crew members/guides. The cost is AUD$195 (NZD$225) for a full day including lunch, hot and cold beverages and snorkel gear (when not near the whales). Their sister company is Friendly Islands Kayak.>Top
WindsurfingThis watersport hasn’t really taken off in Tonga to the extent seen in other Pacific destinations but if you are into windsurfing, head to the waterways of Vava’u.>Top
WomenWhile public life in Tonga is dominated by men, Tongan women enjoy a much higher status in society than in other parts of the Pacific. The hierarchical system (fahu) gives women authority over some male family members. The eldest sister is deemed the matriarch of the family and commands the respect of younger brothers and nephews. The wonderful Queen Salote also did much to raise the status of women.>Top
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