Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Islands Destination Planner 2017 | Page 162

Tonga

160

TONGA
/ South Pacific Islands
Tonga
The unspoilt islands of Tonga give you the perfect setting to unwind . Amongst deserted beaches and stunning sunsets , you will feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world .
This island nation that has almost been forgotten by the modern world has a proud historical and cultural heritage combined with a strong focus on religion . This destination is ideally suited to people with an adventurous spirit who want to truly immerse themselves into life on a Pacific island .
The main island is Tongatapu and home to the capital , Nuku ’ alofa . The best way to explore Nuku ’ alofa is on foot – simply pick up a visitor ’ s map and your journey of discovery will begin . Take a walk along the waterfront , discover the Royal Palace , historical Royal Tombs , churches , markets and little shops , all worth exploring . One thing to remember is that Tonga is a deeply religious country so you won ’ t find much ( if anything ) open on Sundays !
If looking to venture further afield we suggest you hire a car and enjoy a leisurely drive around the island . You ’ ll discover many places of cultural and historical interest including the Flying Fox Sanctuary , Bird Park , Captain Cook ’ s Monument and Mapu ’ a ’ a Vaea Blowholes , just to name a few . If you ’ re looking to unwind then head out to one of the nearby offshore island resorts with their white sand beaches and clear blue waters . Whether you go for a day trip or decide to stay longer , you ’ ll feel relaxed as soon as you arrive !
6 Day Discover Tongatupu
The outer islands of Vava ’ u and Ha ’ apai offer you the opportunity to truly experience the remoteness , beauty and culture of Tonga . Life operates at a slower pace so don ’ t be surprised if some things take a little time ! Pack your sense of adventure and you ’ ll be sure to enjoy all the experiences of these truly fascinating islands .
Vava ’ u
Vava ’ u is the most popular and second largest island group with 50 islands closely nestled together , offering a picturesque vista of lush green hills and clear blue waters . Neiafu , the capital of Vava ’ u , is located on the edge of Port Refuge Harbour . This quaint little town where time has almost stood still has little shops to discover , great restaurants with harbour views , first-class fishing and sailing , not to forget magnificent whale watching . The diving in Vava ’ u is also excellent , as the waters are crystal clear , with visibility averaging 30 metres . Accommodation is of a good standard with something to suit most budgets and tastes .
Packages and accommodation options are available on request .
Tongatapu is the main island of the Kingdom of Tonga and the location of its capital , Nuku ’ alofa . North of the island are many small isolated islands and coral reefs which extend up to seven kilometres from Tongatapu ’ s shores . The almost completely closed Fanga ’ uta and Fanga Kakau Lagoons are an important breeding ground for birds and fish and were declared a natural reserve in 1974 by the government .
Accommodation : Heilala Holiday Lodge . A moderate / basic property in the village of Kanokupolu on the main island of Tongatapu . Located on the stunning sandy beaches of Ha ’ atafu and Kanokupolu with the most picturesque sunsets , the best surfing on the main island , great snorkelling and a beautiful sandy beach that stretches over a kilometre long . From here you can spot Tonga ’ s famous humpback whales in season .
Package includes : 5 nights of accommodation , arrival transfer with meet and greet , daily island style breakfast , communal guest kitchen , internet access , guest services counter , hammocks ( one per fale ), snorkel gear .
Pricing from . $ 349 Pricing is per person , double occupancy
Ha ’ apai
The Ha ’ apai island group consists of 60 islands , most of which are low-laying atolls . Ha ’ apai is definitely off the beaten track and a great place to escape all the stresses of the 21st century ! The region is extremely traditional and has not really been touched by tourism , so this is a great place if you ’ re looking for a quiet , cultural , “ back to basics ” experience . As well as offering solitude , Ha ’ apai is a water lover ’ s paradise . Accommodation is limited , so sit back , relax and enjoy “ island life ”.
Like other South Pacific nations , Tonga has been blessed with warm waters and abundant marine life ; it is a great place to learn to dive , try kayaking , or do some whale watching .
Packages and accommodation options are available on request .
ANDERSON VACATIONS From prices for accommodation are ‘ per room ’ and sightseeing are ‘ per person ’.