Tonga is an Island monarchy with His Majesty King Taufa'ahau Tupou IV as Head of State. Parliament consists of Ministers appointed by the King, with representatives of the noble families and representatives elected by the people. The capital is Nuku'alofa. It is illegal for anyone to appear in public without a shirt. Brief shorts bathing suits and bikinis are fine at the beach or poolside but frowned upon if worn in public.
Casual attire is recommended for most occasions.
Banks are open Monday to Friday 9.30am to 3.30pm and on Saturday morning until noon. Shops are open from 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday and until noon on Saturdays. A taste of Tongan traditional cuisine is available during hotel smorgasbords or feast nights. The Tongan National Centre has feasts on Tuesdays and Thursdays and should be put in the 'must-do' category of any visit. Generally, the prices are very reasonable and you certainly get value for money.