Tips on Clothing andCultural Aspects

Hi,
I've been reading some of the old posts and would appreciate if you could guide me on 2 things.... How should a single girl behave towards people? What are the basics do/and dont´s? It seems to be a very conservative society? Is that correct?

Also, what´s the best way to get dressed? Aren´t you suppose to get around using bermudas? What´s the best to wear? trousers and long skirts? Thanks!

Mid-length skirts are best, as showing thighs in most SP cultures is frowned on. Short shorts and bikini tops are okay for beach resorts, but not elsewhere. Skirts are also cooler, therefore more comfortable, than slacks. Some places frown on women wearing slacks, although I haven't encountered any problems if I do wear them. When talking to people, try not to look them in the eyes for long periods, that's considered rude. Most SP countries are pretty laid back and are used to foreigners and their strange ways, just treat people with respect and you'll receive the same.

Since this is in the Tonga thread, I will answer for Tonga, What #1 says is sound advice.

be respectful, they are a religious people, and be happy. Smile a lot and you will get lots of smiles back. Don't be afraid to ask for help, advice, or directions, they will gladly give it.

If you're spending any amount of time in a smaller community Sunday attendance @ the Church of your choice is one way to show respect.

Lots of churches to choose from lots of friendly curious church goers to meet, it's a calming way to start a quiet South Pacific Sunday.

I was in the Ha'apai and Tongatapu. On Tongatapu I saw maybe three, late teens, Tongan women in shorts. The preferred dress for young women in December 07 were pants that fell below the knee (capri's, pedal pushers) and baggy T shirts. I felt comfortable walking around in bermuda shorts on Tongatapu. (I wore a long skirt for Church.) On Lifuka, the main Ha'apai island, while I did walk around in bermudas, I felt the hint of knee that they exposed was sort of like wearing a top that exposed a little too much breast. On Uiha I wore a sarong over my shorts or the long skirt. The Tongan women will wear bicycle shorts under their sarongs. They swim that way. I swam just in my shorts. On top I wore a long sleeved rash guard, but that's for sun protection (I even wear that in Tahiti because while French women don't get sunburned, I do.)

I was told by a woman in Ha'apai that I was fine to wear what I wanted (since I was a tourist) and not listen to what was written in the silly guidebook (her words). However, I did notice that her style was different from all the other Tongan ladies, a low cut blouse with a sarong slit up to there.

Otherwise, just be yourself around the people. They are very nice and open and genuine.

I am living in Ha'apai and never had anybody frown at me, not even if I wear shorts that end above the knee. The girls here - as already mentioned - either wear long skirts or the capri shorts and t-shirts, but for you as a tourist even sleeveless shirts will be okay. It is always good to show respect and dress moderately, but I think the Palangis really have some more freedom regarding clothes etc. If you talk to a man when there are no other women around it is a good idea not to look him directly in the eyes as a lot of men take this as an invitation. Otherwise there is nothing you need to worry about as long as you show the same common sense as you would anywhere else. The Tongans are very friendly and welcoming and most likely you will even get invited to join a family for a feast and you will be treated as the special guest. I hope you have fun and enjoy your holiday!

Thanks for all the tips. Now i Ma trying to get my prize ticket!

Brtata---You keep mentioning a "prize ticket" in your posts. what is a "prize ticket"???