Tonga is made up of more than 170 islands divided into three groups - the Vava'u archipelago is the most northerly, consisting of around 40 coral islands. It's a captivating combination of lush vegetation, sandy beaches, abundant marine life, and underwater caves, making it one of Tonga's most popular tourist destinations. The flat-topped Mount Talau towers over the main island, offering spectacular panoramic views. Experience local traditions, like weaving mats from the leaves of the pandanus tree, producing noni juice and the extraction of vanilla essence. Freechoice: Ancient Tonga Community Tour: Tour the village school, visit a community hall for weaving, and a local plantation. Get a glimpse of Tongan life and support the local community. 'Ene'io Botanic Garden & Show: Explore a botanical garden with live demonstrations, showcasing Tongan culture and traditions. Learn about plant conservation and enjoy a traditional dances show. Local Market Culinary Tour: Visit the local market to taste Tongan cuisine, learn cooking techniques, and observe local crafts. Conclude with a kava tasting. Mabe Pearl Workshop Visit: Explore a pearl workshop, learn about marine preservation, and enjoy a scenic bus tour through villages. Mt Talau and Scenic Drive: Embark on a scenic hike up Mt. Talau, followed by a bus tour through villages and a tasting of kava. Cross International Dateline: Today you will become a time traveller - Scenic Eclipse II will cross the International Date Line, an imaginary line of demarcation that runs from the North to the South Pole, located roughly along the 180th meridian in the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a celebration of the crossing with the captain and crew as a nod to ancient maritime traditions and a light-hearted appreciation of the marvels of time and travel. Step ashore today in one of the smallest countries in the world. The tiny island nation of Niue is home to less than 2,000 people and is a slice of the South Pacific as it used to be. The island was first settled by Polynesian sailors from Samoa in the 10th century. Captain Cook sighted the island in 1774 but was refused permission to land, though many missionaries made it ashore in the following centuries - look out for the many churches. Niue is ideal for hiking, with dramatic coastal paths leading along steep cliffs and into hidden caves. Swim or snorkel at secluded beaches where you won't see another traveller all day. Freechoice: Plantation Tour: Discover the true Niuean way of life, visiting a local plantation and looking for uga (coconut crabs). Watch a coconut husking and drink from the fruit. Vanilla Tour: Visit an organic vanilla farm with over 30,000 organic vanilla vines for a special one-on-one educational opportunity about the unique and expensive market of vanilla. Tour of the Western Coast of the Island: Discover Niue's west coast on a relaxing two-hour tour, exploring caves, snorkeling spots, and immersing yourself in local culture with a market, coconut demos, and visits to the museum and shops. Snorkelling Tour: Experience the beauty of Niue's waters on a guided snorkeling tour. Explore vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable underwater adventure. Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. ...
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