Tonga Travel Information
Location
The Kingdom of Tonga consists of over 170 small islands with a combined land area of 699 sq. km., and a sea area of 700,000 sq. km. Tonga is located south-east of Fiji and west of the Cook Islands. Tonga is 13 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time, and is located across the international dateline. The time difference is 3 hours behind Pacific Standard Time, plus one day.
How to Get to Tonga
Tonga's Fua'amotu international airport is serviced by Air Pacific, with flights from Los Angeles stopping in Fiji on the way. Flights within Tonga are serviced by Royal Tongan Airlines. Due to strict custom, flights within Tonga do not operate on Sundays.
How to Get Around in Tonga
Tonga has bus service on its main islands, as well as taxis, rental cars, and passenger ferries.
Language
The official languages of Tonga are Tongan and English.
Dress
Casual attire is recommended for almost all occasions. Brief island wear is appropriate at the beach or at the resort, but is inappropriate while in town or visiting villages. A respectable standard of dress is required when attending church. Nude or topless sunbathing will cause offense.
Climate
Tonga enjoys a warm climate year round, however is a bit cooler than most tropical areas. Summer months (Dec.-Mar.) are generally warmer and more humid.
Currency & Banking
The currency is Tonga is the Tongan Dollar or Pa'anga. There are 100 seniti in one dollar, and the denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10 and 50 pa'anga. Coins are 1, 2, 5 10, 20 and 50 seniti, and 1 and 2 pa'anga. The Bank of Tonga, MBF, ANZ are the main bank branches.
Entry Requirements
All visitors must have a current passport, valid for at least 6 months beyond their return date. Tourists are allowed to enter Tonga for a period not exceeding 30 days.
Electricitiy
Electricity is 240 volts, so a converter and adapter are necessary if you want to use North American appliances.
Shopping
There is some shopping in Tonga and an array of goods can be found at competitive prices. Normal business hours are 8:30am - 4:30pm Monday through Friday. All shops are closed on Sundays.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected.
Contact your South Pacific Specialist at South Seas Adventures for more information. We can custom-design your holiday in Tonga.
