Culture & Customs of Tonga
At first glance, life in Tonga might appear to have remained unchanged for generations, with its deep-rooted hierarchies still firmly in place. Although men often seem to hold more prominent roles in society, within Tongan families, it's the sisters who hold higher rank. The eldest sister is typically the decision-maker, and her younger siblings are expected to respect her authority without question. Tonga is a very Christian country, meaning that Sunday is devoted to family and the church. Sunday Law prohibits all types of activities, from playing, working to even doing housework. In Tonga, it's important to avoid being topless in public, as this is illegal for both men and women. Additionally, wearing black clothing is associated with mourning in Tongan culture, so it's best to be mindful of this when choosing what to wear. Last but not least, the ubiquitous pigs of Tonga are an attraction in themselves: they roam the island freely and in large amounts, so you're essentially guaranteed to run into at least a few dozen.
