| Local name: Pule'anga Fakatu'i
o'Tonga - Kingdom of Tonga |
| Surface : 699
sq km (270 sq mi) - Tonga is an archipelago of
172 islands in the South Pacific, most of which are uninhabited,
covering an area of 7700 sq km (3000 sq miles). The major island
groups are Tongatapu and ’Eua, Ha’apai and Vava’u. |
| Population :
97,784 inhabitants |
| Climate: Tonga's
climate is marginally cooler than most tropical areas. The best time
to visit is from May to November. Heavy rains occur from December to
March. |
| Visa: Visitors are welcome for 30 days
provided they have an onward sea or air ticket. Extensions for stays
up to six months are normally obtained without difficulty. Visitors
may not obtain employment without a permit. PASSPORTS:
Passport valid for at least 6 months required
by all |
| Electricity: 230 volts 60 Hz approximate. |
| Capital : Nuku'alofa
(pop. 20,000) |
| System : Constitutional
monarchy. Gained full independence within the Commonwealth in 1970 - The
monarch, who has ultimate executive power, is head of both state and
government, and appoints a 10-member Council of Ministers. The
single-chamber Fale Alea (Legislative Assembly) has 30 members: 9 are
elected for a 3-year term by popular vote in multi-seat constituencies;
9 are elected by a convention of the islands’ traditional chiefs;
the remaining 12 are ex-officio appointees from the privy Council and
the governors. |
| Languages : Tongan, English |
| Religions : Christianity (the major
denominations being Methodist) |
| Money :
Pa'anga (T$) = 100 seniti. Notes are in
denominations of T$50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations
of 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 seniti. |
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