Tonga is a relatively small Polynesian island nation in the Southern Pacific. This is a constitutional monarchy, and its nickname is The Friendly Islands. The official languages are Tongan and English. Most residents are Pacific Islanders, with a Chinese minority population of about 3 or 4%, and a handful of Europeans. Tonga’s islands are largely composed of limestone, either formed from coral or over a volcanic base. The climate is tropical. Native animal species include the Pacific sheath-tailed bat, the bunch, and the Polynesian Megapode. Mainstays of the economy include telecommunications, finances, and handicrafts. The economy is quite underdeveloped, and much of the livelihood of islanders comes from subsistence farming or remittances of cash from natives living abroad.

One often appreciated sight is that of fishing pigs in random locations around the islands. If royalty and religion is more your thing, try to catch the first family of Tonga at services at the Centenary Chapel in the capital city Nuku’alofa. The musical accompaniment is supposed to be really worthwhile, and mass is a typical activity in this very Christian, traditional country. If archaeology or architecture grab your interest, check out the vaults and pyramids of the Mu’a area.

Yams, taro, sweet potatoes, and tapioca are common starchy staples. Typical vegetables include cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes. Cornbeef and tuna, typically canned, are popular alternatives to chicken, pork, and fresh fish. Topai (doughboys) are made of flour and water combined and boiled, then served with a sugar and coconut milk syrup. Try cornbeef mixed with coconut milk and baked in leaves in an earth oven. Tongans are mostly limited to home-brewed alcohol, since buying imported drinks requires some sort of liquor license. Try the fermented hopi, which can be pretty strong, for an interesting and different experience.