If you’re looking for a holiday destination that is unspoilt, un-commercialised and back to basics, then Tonga is the place for you!
The Kingdom of Tonga is the only remaining constitutional monarchy in the Pacific.
The 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.
The main island is Tongatapu and home to the capital Nuku'alofa. Spend a couple of days here exploring the history on the island or take a short boat ride to one of the outer islands and sit back and relax on the white sandy beaches. The other islands of Vavu'u and Ha'apai offer you the opportunity to truly experience the remoteness, beauty and culture of Tonga. And like other South Pacific nations Tonga has been blessed with warm waters and abundant marine life, a is a great place to learn to dive, try kayaking, or do some whale watching!
The island of Tongatapu is home to the capital Nuku’alofa and is the entry point for most visitors.
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 are 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 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!
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!
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. Here you’ll discover first class fishing, sailing and not to forget the 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
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”
If you’re dreaming of a small, warm and sunny tropical island with stunning white sand beaches, sheltered clear blue turquoise lagoons and a range of restaurants all within walking distance then look no further.
The Cook Islands are situated in the heart of Polynesia and are comprised of 15 islands. Submerge yourself into the vibrant culture of song, dance and age old traditions that is so much a part of the Cook Islands way of life.
When we think of the Cook Islands we think of beautiful Rarotonga. Just imagine your footprints being the first of the day as you take a leisurely morning walk along one of her many white sand beaches. A few short steps from your bungalow you can spend lazy afternoons swimming and snorkelling in the clear blue lagoon or exploring the island as you venture out and about on your scooter. A cocktail in hand you watch another stunning sunset before a night of savouring fresh seafood and local produce from a variety of superb restaurants all within easy reach. Then at the end of another stress free and relaxing day you fall asleep to the lagoon waters lapping gently on the shore as the palm trees sway gracefully around you.
We think of heavenly Aitutaki. A haven for romance with days spent relaxing, swimming and snorkelling in the pristine clear blue lagoon and enough space and solitude to have that precious time together. Step back in time and experience this truly secluded island paradise where time means nothing and idyllic days turn into romantic nights.
Rarotonga is the vibrant centre of the Cook Islands.
Dominated by high mountain peaks and almost completely encircled by a reef, the calm turquoise lagoons, white sand beaches and palm fringed shores makes Rarotonga an inviting and popular holiday destination.
For a small island paradise Rarotonga offers an impressive range of accommodation, dining and activity options to suit all budgets. Choose from a resort style holiday with the convenience of everything on site to a small romantic property with only a few bungalows or opt for self catering facilities which are ideal for families.
The island is only 32 kilometres in circumference so getting around is easy! Scooters are a popular way to see the island and with only two main roads you can’t get lost! Stop for a swim, shop at the small craft stores dotted around the island or call into a café for a cool drink and a bite to eat – the choice is yours!
Kia Orana and welcome to Rarotonga
Aitutaki is fast becoming the “hot” new destination in the South Pacific and with just a 40 minute flight from Rarotonga it’s easy to see why!
The view from the plane on arrival is quite spectacular and you know you are arriving somewhere special.
Aitutaki has been capturing the imaginations of travellers worldwide. This tropical island paradise is known for its stunning turquoise lagoon, deserted islands and white sand beaches. A lagoon cruise is an absolute must and is the best way to fully appreciate how beautiful this part of the Pacific really is. Cruise the calm waters stopping at secluded islands to swim, laze on beach and snorkel amongst the colourful and friendly tropical fish.
A day trip is possible, however to fully appreciate the beauty of this stunning island we recommend you stay a few days. While accommodation is limited it does range in style and price. Choose from basic and traditional style bungalows to beautiful beach villas or luxurious overwater bungalows - there will be something to suit most budgets. Spoil yourself with some time on idyllic Aitutaki!
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