The South Pacific's Only Monarchy

More than a 1000 years ago, Tongan rulers created a hierarchal system of monarchy very similar to that of
European dynasties. The structure included commoners, nobility and above all royalty, with the royal title passed down
from father to eldest son. This patrilineal mode of succession continues in modern times. Today's Tongan monarchy remains
an influential and powerful entity in the modern Kingdom, although the present and more contemporary King, George Tupou V,
has introduced concessions to accommodate a more democratic state. Historically, one of the most loved and admired members
of the Tongan Royal Family was Queen Salote. Her choice to show respect by sitting in an uncovered carriage in pouring rain
at the 1953 Coronation of Queen Elizabeth made her famous around the world.

The Importance of Family

Tongan society is guided by four core values, all of which combine to ensure a generous and genuine welcome to
visitors to the Kingdom; Fefaka'apa'apa'aki (mutual respect), Feveitokai'aki (sharing, cooperating and fulfilment of mutual
obligations), Lototoo (humility and generosity), and Tauhi vaha'a (loyalty and commitment). Family is the central unit
of Tongan life. Older persons command the most respect and each family member knows their role. A typical family unit may
consist of adopted children, cousins and other distant relatives, alongside siblings and grandparents. Everything is communal,
from food to sleeping arrangements. Brothers and sisters always sleep under separate roofs in accordance with the Tongan
culture of sibling separation and respect. The two biggest occasions for Tongan families are weddings and funerals,
both characterised by the giving of gifts including traditional tapa cloths and woven mats. Today, many Tongans still
live in villages, especially in the outer islands, and traditional village life has not changed greatly from earlier days.
Many traditional practices are still an integral part of village life, making Tonga one of most of the most authentic
travellers' destinations in the South Pacific

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

"What I loved about Tonga is the really authentic, unspoilt and genuine feel about everything, it really makes
you feel like you are experiencing a real taste of Polynesian island life. Seeing local women in their yards weaving baskets
and making tapa next door to your guesthouse and having an entire island to yourself without the huge price tag... only in Tonga!"
- Katie Dunn, Perth, Australia.

The youtube video above was obtained from the following source. I would like to acknowledge them and I will only use it for educational purposes.

https://www.youtube.com/embed/HBtvqB9AYIY