Country info for backpacking in Tonga

There were pro-democracy riots in Nuku'alofa in November 2006 which left 8 people dead and flattened (by fire) large portions of the town centre. Tonga is one of the last absolute monarchies in the world and is based upon an essentially feudal system where the king disburses land and positions without recourse to any elected body. Although Tongan royalty is largely loved and revered by Tongans, younger people have an appetite for stronger accountability and a more modern constitution. It is a pre-capitalist economy with none of the corporate chain stores and with local small businesses providing all necessary goods and services. Tourists will find it a friendly and appealing place to visit although don't expect the same level of infrastructure as holiday resorts in more developed countries.

History

The archipelago of "The Friendly Islands" was united into a Polynesian kingdom in 1845. It became a constitutional monarchy in 1875 and a British protectorate in 1900. Tonga acquired its independence in 1970 and became a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. It remains the only monarchy in the Pacific.