alarmigerphoto.com: Articles


Travel: Part 3 The Secrets of ... Beyond Nukalofa; Matafonua Resort


by al armiger

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tonga_16

The two NZ owner/operators Sally Hartell and Dave Bracken proclaim in typical Kiwi humbleness,“We’re not really chefs” but the accolades from their clientele of mainly divers affirmed they are certainly matching their target market’s requirement.

The more simplistic but romantic traditional style of this complex has been designed to cater for a clientele whose priority is to spend more on diving and excursions and a little less on accommodation. Sally and Dave have achieved this without sacrificing cleanliness, tidiness, good food or a comfortable bed. Consequently the two adjacent resorts serve to compliment each other rather than compete.


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tonga_17

The ten fales of Matafonua Resort elevated on stilts in their garden setting afford them a view of the sea. Of timber framed construction clad with traditional woven and thatched palm fronds, each was furnished with good quality beds of varying number and configuration depending on your requirement. Mosquito nets were mandatory standard issue, a small wardrobe stood in the corner and a table and chairs were positioned on the entrance deck. Toilet and bathroom facilities necessitated a short walk to the communal ablution block. And of course the café was the place to get your meals and snacks while sharing the day’s adventures with those around you.


tonga image19cropped
tonga image19cropped

Where ever you elect to stay and what ever you decide to do, you will encounter warm, friendly, hospitable people. How could they be otherwise, they live in paradise.


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tonga_25

To see more photos go to
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For more information on
Fafa Island Resort
web: http://www.kalianet.to/fafa http://www.fafa.to
email: fafa@kalianet.to
phone 00676-22800

Sandy Bay Resort
web: www.sandybeachresort.de
email: Sandybch@kalianet.to
phone/fax: (+676)60600

Matafonoa Resort
web: www.matafonua.com
email: info@matafonua.com
phone/fax: (+676)69-766

Oceanblue Adventures Happy Ha`apai Divers
web: www.tonga-dive.com
email: info@tonga-dive.com
phone/fax: 00676 60639/62639

Thanks to my wife Tracy who is also my personal travel planner, tour guide, assistant photographer, house model, editorial adviser, travel account manager, occasionally nurse and full time psychologist.

All text and photos © al armiger alarmigerphoto.com