Location: Archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, South of Samoa and to the East of Fiji.
Capital: Nuku’alofa
Tourist attractions: The only remaining monarchy in the Pacific, Tonga provides tourists a perfect base for fun and frolic. The capital city of Nuku’alofa, meaning the 'Abode of Love' has a number of splendid churches, including the Basilica of St Anthony of Padua where the crosses are carved of coconut wood and inlaid with mother of pearl. The Eastern Tongatapu has a concentration of Pyramidal stone tombs including the Ha'amonga'a Maui Trilithon. Other major tourist attractions include the blowholes of 'Mapu'a 'a Vaca' where geyser-like fountains of seawater spout through the natural vents in the coral limestone and the Tonga National Centre with beautiful artifacts and cultural tours including demonstrations of cooking, weaving, tapa-making and dancing. Tonga’s beaches, coral reefs and laid-back atmosphere are its idyllic attractions.
Access: The Fua'amotu International Airport at Tonga receives direct flights from New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Samoa and Hawaii. Tourists coming in by yachts can dock at Nuku'alofa, Neiafu), Pangai and Lifuka.
Climate: The climate is typically tropical in nature with temperatures around 20°C and 30°C throughout the year, moderated by trade winds. There is also heavy rainfall the year round, and especially between October and April on some islands.