Tonga - The Other Hawaii

By Author: Alec Gordon
Total Articles: 4762
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Wake up San Francisco Giants fans! You haven't seen the land of the "Giants" until you've been to Tonga. The Tongans are known as "gentle giants", however it is not wise to take ones' hospitality for granted anywhere you go. The islanders are kind and generous and have an ever present command of respect an tolerance. Located near the neighboring Fiji islands in the pacific Tonga is a long journey from the U.S. but worthwhile. The Main Island is mostly flat which makes biking convenient. There are local people who may offer bicycle tours of the island. For those who like to dance you may witness a sitting style of dance. There are often colorful dance competitions among the islands which are sometimes performed to settle disputes.

The Word Palange literally means "white father", newcomers are often referred to as Palange. Cava is the well know traditional drink at gatherings. Cava is a tea made from Cava Root which can be inebriating depending on how it is made. To be invited for Cava is a rare treat for men who indulge. The legend of how Cava Came to be is shared along with other conversation.

The white sandy beaches ...
... are surrounded by crystal clear water. If you are fortunate you may be invited to a gathering on the beach where it is customary but not required to bring an offering or contribution. There is usually a time of remembrance and prayer as we have in our customs before meals. After a few rounds of Cava you will need your sea legs to get back home with many stories to tell. If they give you a Tongan nickname that's really cool!

Some useful Tongan Translations:

For "Hello" or "Goodbye" men say "Malo" and women say "Malo e lelei"
Yes is pronounced "'Io" and no is pronounced "ikai"
To say thank you is also "Malo"

May you enjoy your trip we bid you Malo!
About Author:
Alec Gordon is a world traveler, writer, and pilot. He is the editor of the very successful Travel Gaia Sites http://www.travel-gaia.com Travel Gaia has two new sites Travel Atitlan and Travel Tonga