10 Reasons to Visit Tonga

Tonga probably isn’t at the top of your travel bucket list – could you point to it on a map? I certainly had to Google it… but after spending 10 days there, I’m here to tell you why you should get out your atlas (and maybe a magnifying glass) to start planning your trip.

Here are 10 reasons to visit Tonga:

Tonga: Resort

Today we’re moving on from Tongatapu to Vava’u. Before coming to Tonga I assumed Vava’u would be a nearby island. That’s usually how countries work, right? Island groupings within a reasonable distance? Well not really in this case. Vava’u is an hour’s flight away, about as far from the neighbouring country of Niue as from the Tongan capital. At least that somewhat explains why our tickets cost so much.

Tonga: Tongatapu

I’m a heavy sleeper, and can sleep through dogs barking, roosters crowing, and bells ringing, but not all 3 at once. And not at 4:30am. But yes! That’s when the church opens, and the bells are to let the vastly religious population of Tonga know they are now welcome inside. This is only Wednesday… I wonder what Sunday will be like.

New Zealand: Piha Beach

Wandering around Auckland has been fun, but I’m dying to see some of what New Zealand is most famous for – it’s beautiful wilderness and beaches! I’ve found that getting around is almost impossible without a car, and while I made sure to get my international driving permit before I left Canada…I’m still not sure I’m ready to drive on the other side of the road. I still haven’t even gotten used to walking on the opposite side, much less driving. 

Greece: Last Day/Beach Day

3 weeks have never flown by so fast. I feel like I just arrived in Athens, but somehow today is my last day. If I had the money to survive here longer, I would love to stay and keep working at the refugee residence.

Greece: Kefalonia In a Day – Beaches, Caves, and Cocktails

It stormed in the middle of the night, cleansing the air so that today feels fresh as opposed to the usual 32 degree, muggy heat. It’s actually breathable.

We dive right in to our day of tourist activities by driving to the Drogarati cave.

Greece: Turtles and Caves

Committing to an 8:30am tour feels like the biggest mistake I’ve ever made. I didn’t go out last night, I had a very chill day, but I haven’t had to get up early in weeks. My body clock is rejecting this. But hey! I’m goin’ to see a cool beach (famous Shipwreck) and some caves so I do eventually drag myself out of bed. 

Greece: White Party

Okay so. While I think this island is crazy and might as well belong to the UK, I’m here. So I might as well immerse myself and get into the nightlife, right?! DJ MK is playing tonight at some “white only” party (clothing, not people….maybe not the best name though, I know) and Abi got us tickets.

Greece: Zakynthos Knife Fight

In a fun turn of events, Expedia has actually written me back to let me know they’ve refunded the 60€ to my account! Bless their little souls. Lesson learned kids, always complain until you get what you want.

Spain: New Hood

The lawd has blessed me with another job interview this morning. My life is about to become hella hectic though, because I have to move out of the hostel, into my apartment, and be at this interview… all before 10am. I groggily pack my bag, take the fastest, weakest shower of my life, and beg the front desk to let me leave my bag with them for an hour. I don’t want to pay the 5€ fee that they charge for a full day. Hell nah.