Tonga

Tonga, officially known as the Kingdom of Tonga, is a Polynesian island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is made up of 169 islands, with a population of around 100,000 people. Tonga has a rich history dating back over 3,000 years, with the arrival of the Lapita people. In the 10th century, Tonga became a unified kingdom under the Tu'i Tonga dynasty. European explorers arrived in the 17th century, leading to missionary activity and eventual British protection in the 19th century. Tonga retained its independence and is the only monarchy in the Pacific. Today, Tonga is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and strong sense of community.