The Kingdom of Tonga is the heart of the Polynesian Culture. This is the only Pacific nation which has never been colonized, and is a true monarchy. It therefore retains the authentic character and traditions of the South Pacific.

Captain Cook made two voyages to Tonga but he never visited our Vava’u island group. When the Vava’u chief met with Cook, the meeting was arranged in the neighboring Ha’apai islands to keep the many fortified harbors and anchorages of Vava’u a secret. Tonga receives less rain than other tropical areas and high temperatures average 25C with moderate humidity. The summer season is from December through April and the rainy season is February through the end of May. During the dry season, the Trade Winds create a comfortable tropical climate. All Tongan schools are taught in English and English is the main language of commerce. However, native Tongan is still spoken in the out islands of the Kingdom. The local currency is the Pa’anga but most commerce is conducted using the currencies of Australia, New Zeeland, the United States and Europe. Travelers Cheques are recommended for visitors.