Strolling along the seafront, you blend in with the locals and their brightly colored, sun-blocking umbrellas. About the only difference is your Western clothes - many of Nuku'alofa's residents are outfitted in their traditionally Tongan ta'ovalas.

You stop to look at the Royal Palace, home to Tonga's sovereign family. Many say it's the city's most impressive structure, and they might be right - the palace's red roof is a striking contrast to its white walls and the clear, blue sky.