Journey back in time to experience the Kingdom of Tonga. Nuku Alofa is the capital of Tonga located on the island of Tongatapu. Discovered by Captain Cook in 1777, this gem of the South Pacific is rich in heritage, tradition and charm. Tongan is the official language of the Kingdom and English is spoken by most locals. Tipping is NOT expected, but always appreciated as a reward for great service.
On your way to Nuku Alofa’s local Talamahu Market (which is where you can shop for Tongan arts and crafts) look up into the trees. You will see the “Flying Foxes” – Tonga’s only native land mammal, whose wingspan is 3 feet. There are thousands of these old world fruit bats snoozing upside down in the trees. I have heard that the Tongans regard the bats as sacred. (In some places people eat bats. In my travels I have eaten many kinds of animals, but I draw the line on rats and bats!)
Every country has it’s own way of dealing with death of a loved one especially a child. I believe this burial site will bring tears of joy and sadness to your eyes. You can see how much love went into designing and maintaining this grave site of Jazmyne and Leni. (See pictures 1-2 below.)
Travel Concierge, Sara Raney, is an Alaska and Antarctica Specialist. Having traveled to over 100 countries herself, Sara has the knowledge and experience to make travel plans and special arrangements for her clients (things you wouldn’t even think of) so that you can relax and enjoy a wonderful, memorable, hassle-free vacation!
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