Island hopping

We spent the rest of our time in Tonga island hopping. We based ourselves on the main island, Tongatapu, but spent each day on a trip out to the islands off the north coast: 'Atata, Pangaimotu and Fafa. The snorkelling was awesome, especially off a wreck and huge reef that we were taken out to. We also played a lot of games at the various resorts. Our hotel in Nukualofa was lovely with extensive gardens. It was very relaxing.

We then crossed the international dateline and arrived in Samoa 22.5 hours before we left Tonga. That Monday was definitely the longest of our lives! Since arriving into Samoa we've been exploring the best beaches, snorkelling and beautiful scenery. 'Upolu is a gorgeous island, nicely kept houses and fale with open sides everywhere. We've had yellowfin tuna for practically every meal, along with loads of fresh fruit. The rest of the diet is very starchy, and Tongans and Samoans make the overweight American look slim! E