Tonga

Nuku’alofa, Tonga  February 19, 2025

We walked off the ship into the town. We could tell that we were getting closer to the equater because the heat and the humidity were remarkably high. We were planning to just do a walk about in the town since none of us had been here before.

 

Locals demonstrated local music and moves.

We walked to the President’s house and were surprised to see a police car escorted entourage coming to the entrance gate. It was the president dressed in military uniform. We were told no pictures, but it was exciting to see the president of Tonga…very unexpected. The flag immediately went up over the mansion….just like in Great Britain when the King and Queen arrive. 

We walked through the neighborhood enjoying every bit of shade we could find coming up on the old cathedral that was in bad shape from a years ago storm. We continued on and found the rebuilt cathedral down the street. 

We discovered some unusual fruits growing on trees.

We entered the Cultural Center to watch some young folks put on a dance show. Arts and crafts were available to purchase. Weaving demonstrations were there as well. 

Larry and I grabbed some liquid refreshment in an open air establishment and sat down to people watch before escaping back to the air conditioning on the ship.