Vava’u, Tonga
Of all the different nations of the South Pacific Tonga is unique in that it is the only one to have never lost self-governance. While every other nation out here has at one time or another (and most are currently) subject to the protection / governance / colonization of a foreign power, Tonga has always remained their own country. They can trace their monarchy back to its founding and the different chiefs of islands before that. Considering there was an age of time where colonization was what the West pretty much DID, it is impressive simply that Tonga is, in fact, always and still Tongan.
What it also means is that if you’ve ever wondered what would happen if you blended modern times with ancient Polynesian culture all you need do is look at Tonga for your answer.
