Tonga

Tonga, a country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean consisting of some 170 islands divided into three main island groups: Tongatapu in the south, Ha‘apai in the centre, and Vava‘u in the north.The capital, Nuku‘alofa, is on the island of Tongatapu. Read here to learn more about Tonga.

The Tonga islands are one of the ISLANDS' editors favorite destinations. It was on the cover of the May 2012 issue. And it ranks at No. 15 on our new Best Islands to Live On 2012 list. See our Tonga islands coverage here.

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With pristine white beaches and an unspoiled natural environment, Tonga is one of those places that seems picture-perfect. Despite that, it somehow remains off of most travellers' radars. Here are some of the reasons you should visit.

EVEN in defeat Tonga is a Rugby League World Cup winner.

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The blowholes

A tranquil lodge on a beach with spectacular sunsets makes for the perfect island getaway, writes Sue Baxalle.