Tonga: Vava'u Travel Photography — Part 4: People of Tonga

on
Tongan sister carries her baby brother up the long steep hill
Tongans are friendly and generally open to photography themselves.  As I wandered all around the islands in search of unique experiences, I met many Tongans.  I'd hold my camera up and ask if it was OK to take their photo and most said it was.  I had a few refuse, but most were happy to smile and typically went on with their own business. 
tonga man in Vava'u riding a bike
This man was a pastor at one of the island churches. 
He rode his bike to service on Sunday.  Many Tongans
are dressed elaborately for Sundays.
tongan women in green and pink dresses in Vava'u
Tongan women dressed for church
Dugout canoe in Vava'u Tonga sailed by 4 boys
Four Tongan Boys in a Dugout Canoe
traditional tongan clothes worn by young man walking
Walking on Tonga to Sunday Service
In the middle of our trip we were invited to a Tongan Feast on the island of Vakaeitu.  Vakaeitu has only one family living on the island so this was an authentic family affair.  The marlin was caught that day and brought in by everybody who could lend a hand.  After the feast, the family played music and danced for us too.  It was wonderful!
6 men carry a heavy marlin fish to tongan feast on vakaeitu
Marlin carried by 6 men to a Tongan Feast
vava'u tongan feast with music and dancing.
Dancing by Flashlight on the Beach at Tongan Feast

Location: Vava'u, Tonga