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Kingdom of Tonga
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Climate of Tonga
Information on Tonga's tropical
climate, and what to expect weather-wise when visiting Tonga .
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VISITOR INFORMATION
Airports
While there are six airports, only one is paved, Fua'amotu International Airport near Nuku'alofa. However, Lupepapau'u Airport on Vava'u can also take some international flights.
Airlines
Royal Tongan Airlines, Air Pacific, Air New Zealand, Polynesian Airlines and Samoa Air all fly into Tonga. Royal Tongan also flies regular services between the main islands, which are recommended more than the local ferries.
Ports
Nuku'alofa, Neiafu and Pangai.
Departure Tax
A departure tax of T$19 applies (September, 1999), but those only transiting for less than 12 hours are exempt.
Visas
No visa is necessary for stays less than 30 days as long as the traveler has a valid passport and onward ticket. For stays longer than 30 days, the traveler must get approval from the Department of Immigration in Nuku'alofa.
Goods and Services Taxes
A goods and service tax of 5% exists, and room tax is 2½%.
Electrical Appliances
Tonga runs on 240V, 50Hz power, though some hotels also have outlets for 110V.
Tipping
Tipping is not expected. However, during a public dancing performance it is acceptable - and customary - to stick dollar notes to the oiled skin of the dancers!
Clothing
To avoid embarrassing and offending the Tongans, visitors should dress modestly in town, keeping brief clothing for the beaches and resorts. If in doubt about what is acceptable, ask your hotelier or staff - or just observe the locals.
Tongans usually dress in modest Western clothes, but add the traditional touch with a narrow length of mat wrapped around their waist. Women usually wear a 'sulu' skirt under their skirt. Many men also feel more comfortable in their wrap around 'skirts' than trousers. It is illegal for men not to wear a shirt in public places. Brief attire is considered offensive to Tongans, unless it is on the beach.
Time
Time is almost irrelevant in Tonga, as the relaxed atmosphere makes the hustle and bustle of modern life seem ridiculous in perspective. However, for those who care, Tonga is where time begins each day - 12 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time and 18 hours ahead of New York.
Water
Although the water is treated and of good quality in Nuku'alofa and other centres where piped water is available, it's always wise to check if it is treated. Water should be be boiled or bottled water drunk in rural areas.
Health
Travelers are advised to be immunised against hepatitis before coming to Tonga. Immunisation and certification is required for Yellow Fever if the traveller has been to an area infected with the disease prior to coming to Tonga.
Medical Facilities
Take care to prevent the usual kinds of infection from contaminated food and water and coral cuts, which can turn nasty quickly and spoil a good holiday.
Medical facilities are limited, although there are hospitals in Nuku'alofa and Neiofu that have emergency and outpatients rooms. There are also some private doctors.
You can also access medical advice and assistance over the internet through : http://www.doctorglobal.com
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