Travel Tips - Tonga Vacations by Pacific For Less


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Tonga

Tonga situated just west of the International Date Line, is the first country to greet each new day. At first glance, Tonga may seem similar to other South Pacific island groups, but is has one unique difference: Tonga is a constitutional monarchy - the last remaining Polynesian kingdom.

In past centuries, many Pacific islands - including Tahiti, the Samoas, and the Cook Islands were ruled by royalty. Today, the only remaining South Pacific monarch is Tonga's King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV. Tonga's attractions feature the South Pacific charms of coral reefs, clear blue skies, and inviting atolls. Its gentle people maintain a traditional way of life that has changed little more than 10 centuries. As you travel in Tonga, you'll get to know these people. You'll watch them gracefully perform traditional dances, admire their handicraft skills used in making tapa and woven mats, enjoy their foods at bounteous Tongan feasts, and mingle with them in villages and public markets.

You'll soon understand why Captain Cook called Tonga " The Friendly Islands".The islands divide naturally into three groups - Tongatapu in the south, Ha'apai in the center and Vava'u in the north. Tonga's land area totals only 697 square km/269 square miles. Only 45 of Tonga's islands are inhabited, more than 75% of the population lives on Tongatapu, the main island.

Tonga Travel Tips

As visa and health requirements are subject to change without notice, we recommend that passengers verify existing foreign visa and health regulations prior to travel. (See also general Terms and Conditions )

Entry requirements: Bona-fide tourists and business persons may enter Tonga for a period not exceeding 30 days providing immigration authorities are satisfied that the visitor holds a valid- passport, an onward air or sea ticket, proof of adequate funds and relevant health certificates. If visitors wish to extend their stay, permission must be requested from the Principal Immigration Office.

Departure tax: The airport departure tax is 20 Tongan $ per person.

Health Requirements: A valid yellow fever certificate and a valid cholera certificate are required by all travelers over one year old, who have been in an infected area prior to arrival in Tonga.

Medical services: In the area of healthcare the Government provides comprehensive medical and dental facilities for residents and visitors, including modern hospitals in Nuku'alofa, Ha'apai and Vava'u. There are also dispensaries chemists and pharmacies available. All doctors, dentists and senior nursing staff have extensive overseas training and offer a standard of medical service equal to that of most developing countries. Private medical practitioners are also available to visitors.

Electricity: The electricity is 240 volts. Visitors should be warned to change the voltage of their electrical appliances as the voltage here is strong.

Telecommunications: Tongatapu is linked to the world with the latest satellite system, telex, telephone (ISD), mobile phones and cable services. Telefax and cable messages can be sent through Cable+Wireless Commission in Nuku'alofa and many hotels have telecommunication facilities which can be made available.

Banking/Currency: There are three Commercial Banks in Tonga: Bank of Tonga, ANZ Bank and Malaysian Borneo Finance (MBF). Currency may be exchanged at various branches of the Bank of Tonga. The currency is Tongan Dollar or Pa'anga equals 100 seniti.

Tipping: Not mandatory, but a gift for excellent service would be well appreciated.

Water: All underwater supplies are chlorinated so they are all satisfactory.