A Port of Refuge in the Islands of Tonga

My favorite place in the entire world is Vava’u, Tonga. Why would I say that? Because I have never relaxed as much as I did while I was in Vava'u. Life is still simple there so rushing is not allowed nor recommended.

The beautiful harbor named fittingly “Port of Refuge” encases yachts visiting from all over the world.

Many visitors testify of the call of the siren that exists in Vava’u. There are rolling hills covered with tropical forests, including coconut trees, mangos, breadfruit, pineapple, guava, passion fruit and vanilla bean plants. The ocean is unpolluted and mesmerizing.

For us ocean lovers, there are sea-level caves, white sandy beaches and even whale sightings.

I took a small boat out to Swallow’s cave, and I was astounded at the beauty of the cave. It had a small opening, just enough for a small boat to cruise in. You can look upwards to see the light coming through from above.

You can also go swimming, snorkeling and deep sea diving.

If you are looking for high-rise buildings and wild nightlife, this is probably not the place for you, but if you are looking for the perfect place to chill out and paint, write or just contemplate the goodness of life, Vava’u is calling.

Vava’u is miles away from the other main islands that make up the kingdom of Tonga, but the people are fun loving, happy and respectful.

One of my favorite places on the island is the Paradise Hotel. It serves delicious multi-national cuisine and includes a swimming pool and magnificent views of the harbor.

The capital of Vava’u is Neiafu. You can shop for beautiful handicrafts made by the Tongan people. They pound and paint tapa cloth which is used for everything from clothing to wall decorations.

The locals are also very talented weavers. You can also watch as they make beautiful bowls and transform carved wood into rare beauties.

There is also a local food market. Here you can purchase papayas, mandarins, mangos, pineapple, and other tropical fruit as well as locally grown vegetables and root crops. They also sell fresh fish and other sea delicacies at the market.

Vava'u and the other 40 odd islands that make up this stunningly beautiful group, in the north of the Kingdom of Tonga archipelago, is a very special piece of paradise.

The islands of Vava'u are easily accessible from Tongatapu, Fiji and Samoa. To its advantage, Vava'u still remains off the beaten track of mass tourism.

This is a place where you can be free to be yourself. Pressures are washed away by the gentle lapping of the sea on stunningly beautiful white coral sand beaches.

The whisper of the trade winds blow through lush green coconut plantations.

I’ll never forget my glorious time in Vava’u, Tonga and hope to return again soon.