Tonga's people special for the world [1]
Thursday, March 3, 2011 - 14:56. Updated on Saturday, May 10, 2014 - 14:07.
" 'Eva Mai 2011", a Tonga Tourism Experience Program was opened by the Prime Minister, Lord Tu'ivakano at the Fa'onelua Convention Centre yesterday, March 2.
The six days annual 'Eva Mai program, launched last year by the Tonga Tourist Association, showcases what Tonga has to offer tourists.
This week overseas tour wholesalers and tour operators will experience Tonga for themselves, visiting historical sites, accommodation facilities and beaches in Tongatapu, Vava'u, Ha'apai and 'Eua.
The Prime Minister congratulated the TTA and local tourist operators with their perseverance and courage "to make 'Eva Mai a beacon of hope for the tourism industry and the economy as a whole. My government will continue to support this excellent initiative in conjunction with the private sector both here and overseas."
Lord Tu'ivakano said that the Friendly Islands are unique and remain special for the world, "our best product is our people, named by Captain Cook the Friendly Islands . . ."
"Whether you are here in Tongatapu, Vava'u, Ha'apai or 'Eua you will come face to face with a group of islands far more different from our neighbours. We are the last to be discovered and experienced in the Pacific."
Airlines
Sakopo Lolohea the CEO of the Ministry of Tourism said three airlines had joined this year's program: Air New Zealand, Pacific Blue and Air Pacific. From Australia there were 12 companies, including travel agents, travel magazines, diving adventures and Tonga's travel agent.
Six companies joined from New Zealand including GO Holiday, Air New Zealand Holidays, Pacific Blue-NZ, Air New Zealand, Infinity Holiday and the TVB.
From the United States two companies, Destination World and Destination Magazine, with Air Pacific Fiji joining the program from Fiji.
Following the opening of 'Eva Mai 2011 Program visitors inspected a display outside the Fa'onelua Convention Centre by about 30 local tour operators of their products, handicrafts, and cultural performances.
The program ends in Tonga on Monday, March 7.