Tonga - Day 2 (Tongatapu - Pangaimotu)

Woke up early to head out to our first snorkelling adventure, but we did and learned so much more. Here are some fun facts about Tonga. First, its one of the most uninfluenced countries/nations in the world, avoiding nearly all forms of Western influence - no touristy feel to it. They don't do anything on Sundays as they are mostly Mormons - taking the day off as a day of rest. Lastly but certainly not least, if a family has too many sons, they will raise the youngest as a girl - I can't make this up.

As for what we did today, we started walking through town because they opened up Parliament with a giant parade. Every school and child lined the streets in their school uniforms waiting for the king to pass. Unfortunately we didn't see him  as our ferry ride to Pangaimotu left before he showed.

On the ferry ride over and on the island itself we met some really cool guys. If you know the Discovery Channel show 'Treasure Quest' you might recognize them! They all work on a treasure-hunting ship and their job allows them to travel over all ocean looking for shipwrecks and treasure like hundreds-of-years-old silver coins - 17 tons to be exact! And when they're not working they get to travel to places like this five months out of the year. 

Treasure-Hunting Ship

We snorkelled by a shipwreck at this island, saw some fish but no coral - cool but not as great as Fiji. We finished the day playing some sand volleyball, walking around the island and drinking some beers with these awesomely cool guys. 

The rest of the day Simon and I spent walking through town as well as talking with some of our fellow hostel-mates and their travels. Its so cool because you never know who your going to meet or how your day will change. Study abroad has given me that great experience which makes everything about travelling that much more special.