November 19, Nuku' Alofa Tonga

November 19, Nuku’ Alofa, Tonga

The Kingdom of Tonga, although protected by Western Powers, has never been ruled by them. This is evident on the island as traditional Polynesian culture continues to be the way of life. Tongatapu, the largest of the 170 islands that make up Tonga holds the capital city of Nuku’ Alofa. Although Tonga is the poorest of all the Polynesian islands with an average income of about $5100 per year, its rich culture, history, and beauty make up for its economic shortcomings. The fertile soil of the island makes it a haven for the lush tropical species of the South Pacific, and once outside the city you will notice large areas of crops including mango, banana, sweet potatoes, and many other vegatables.

On our tour today we visited the Royal Palace which is the official residence of King George the IV, the current ruling monarchy, the original Royal Tombs which were the burial place tor Tongan Royalty since 1893, the new Tombs, the National Exhibition Center which includes historic artifacts, art, and cultural handicrafts, a drive by the flying foxes (fruit bats), and the Ha’amonga Trilithon archway. The archway was built in 1200AD from lintels, each of which weighs as much as 35 tons, and its 16 feet high and 19 feet wide. According to tradition, it was built as a passageway to the Royal Compound some 800 years ago. As the wheel did not come to the island until much later, scientists have not been able to figure out just how the ancients managed to build it.

A decent tour that included lunch and reasonably priced, we enjoyed it. Upon leaving the island we will pass the international dateline once again and tomorrow will be November 19 once again. On the 20th we arrive at our next port, Apia, Western Samoa where we have another private tour scheduled.