Day: May 8, 2026
-
Melanesia, Part III
•
Tonga Tonga is the South Pacific’s only monarchy, and Nuku’alofa is its capital. It is the administrative center of the country and home to the Royal Palace and graves located on the waterfront. Tonga was first inhabited about 3,000 years ago by Austronesian-speaking people of the Lapita culture from Southeast…
-
Melanesia, part II
•
Cook Islands Rarotonga is a kidney-shaped, volcanic island and the largest and most populous island in the Cook Islands, known for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. The island features volcanic landscapes, lush foliage, and beautiful beaches. Its capital, Avarua, is on the north coast and where our ship anchored. The…