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Tonga

General Information about Tonga

Tonga is a small archipelago nation in the South Pacific and is the last remaining monarchy of the South Pacific island nations. Tonga is located about a third of the way between Hawaii and New Zealand. Tonga has a population of over 112,000 people and is sometimes known as the Friendly Islands after the friendly reception Captain James Cook received by the locals. The official languages spoken in Tonga are Tongan and English. All inhabitants of Tonga are Christian. Tonga is divided into three island groups; Tongatapu, Ha'apai and Vava'u. Tongatapu is the most populated group. This is where Tonga's capital and largest city Nuku?alofa is situated. Nuku?alofa is home to around 22,500 people. Ha'apai is the least populated group and is home to less than 800 people.

Mu'a has the best archaeological remnants in Tonga. Here there are 28 royal tombs made of stone including the Paepae 'o Tele'a (Platform of Tele'a) monument of King Tele'a who reigned during the 16th century. Also of interest is the Langi Namoala which is thought to be the burial site of a female chief. The Tongan National Centre is a great place to start experiencing the culture of Tonga. Here there are cultural tours featuring many demonstrations as well as historical artifacts and cultural items that are still in use today. There is also a dinner showthat features traditional Tongan food and dances.

Climate

Find Out About The Climate Of Tonga

Tonga generally enjoys a typical subtropical climate but does experience some cooler weather because the islands are located in the south east trade wind area. There are two main seasons in Tonga of a wet and dry season. Between the months of December and April is when most of the rainfall occurs, this is due to Tonga's being so close to the South Pacific Convergence Zone. The weather is at its warmest during this period with Tonga receiving up to 70 percent of its annual rainfall. Visiting during May and December are the ideal months to avoid the rain with temperatures averaging up to 27 degrees with lows of ten degrees.

Geography

Geographical Information On Tonga

Tonga is a part of the Oceania group which is geographical region set in the South Pacific Ocean with an area of just 748 square kilometres which includes thirty square kilometres of water. Tonga has a coastline that extends for over 419 kilometres that covers the islands of Tongatapu, Vava'u, and Ha'apai. The islands of Tonga vary with some having mostly a limestone base formed by uplifted coral formations, while others are made up of limestone overlaying a volcanic base.

Economy

Learn About The Economy Of Tonga

The economy of Tonga is mainly based around its agricultural industry which employs over 65 percent of the population while contributing 23 percent of the economy. Tourism is also important with many holidays coming to enjoy the fascinating cultures of the islands. Despite all of this Tonga still relies on economic aid. Tonga has a fairly high unemployment rate, particularly amongst the younger generations. The main exports of the islands are squash, fish, vanilla beans, and root crops. The official currency of the Tonga is the Pa'anga.

Hotels in Tonga

Must Explore would like to wish you an enjoyable stay in Tonga.

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