You may have the impression that here in the
Pacific everything is extra easy. Well, even here
there are a few rules that should be followed,
especially by the Tourist, who is a guest.

DRESS
Tonga is a christian country and a Tourist may
unintentionally overstep the borderline of good taste.
A dress is not so much a matter of showing up, it
has to cover the body decently.

Please try to avoid wearing:
(except in a Hotel/Resort)
- "sexy" Hot Pants
- deeply cut gowns
- see-through material
- belly-free
- miniskirts
- Bikini-Tops or similar
- always cover the upper body (by law!)

IT´S ONLY HUMAN...
(Veneral Diseases/Aids are present in Tonga. Contraception
is no subject to talk about. If you have sexual contacts in Tonga,
we advice a medical checkup after you return home.
Take along condomes.)

Especially women are adviced to follow the
dressing-rules. A woman showing too much skin of the
"wrong" spots may be considered as easy to get, moreover if she drinks alcohol in the public. This may
 cause misunderstandings which should be avoided.

Men are adviced to follow the dressing-rules as well.
Do not dress slobby. Tongan women/girls from a good
family cannot be dated freely.

If in doubt please seek advice from the
Expatriates living in Vava'u.

CHURCH
If you intend to visit one of the truly marvellous
church-services please wear your "sunday´s best".
No short pants, shoulders must be covered.

GAY / LESBIANS
Lesbians have no tradition in the tongan culture and
do not have a good reputation.
Gay (male) live is a traditional part of the
polynesian cultur. You may see the "Fakaleitis"
(To be like a lady) on the road, in the offices
and in the bars in their full outfit and makeup.

ON THE STREET
Exchanging "hot" kisses is not to be done in the public.
Please avoid doing it, Tongans feel deeply
embarrased and ashamed if they see it.

THIS AND THAT
(Avoiding inter-cultural misunderstandings)

If you are invited by a tongan family to join them having
a meal, be prepared to sit on the floor and to eat with
your fingers. Prior to each meal somebody says a prayer. Watch your host and follow his actions.

Tongans like to have some fun with the tourists
If any story told to you seems not very plausible,
you better ask another source!