Travelling with young kids

My extended family is planning a trip to Tonga in June 2009. We will be taking our daughter (3yo) and son (9months) with us.
We will probably travel to Tongatapu and Vava'u.
I noticed one of the island resorts in Vava'u has a strict no children policy.
1>Can anyone advise me of known accommodation in both places that don't welcome kids?

2>And perhaps any suggestions of where would be the best place to stay with kids (that is moderately priced, say up to T$200 a night, on both the main island and Vava'u

3>With the demise of the Paradise Hotel, is their any companies that hire kayaks in Vava'u? From what I understand from the website Friendly Island Kayaks are happy to take you on tours,but they don't mention just hiring one.

Thanks

Edited by: avflys72

Hi - we went to Tonga with our 3 kids aged 16mths, 5yrs and 7 yrs and then back again with them 2 yrs later. From memory there are a few island resorts around Vava'u that don't allow children - but they usually advertise that fact., and if it's unclear, just check when you make an enquiry.

We stayed at Mala Island resort when at Vava'u which was a great location for children - although I think the recent change of ownership can only be a good thing. Not sure what their prices are like now - but it has a nice little beach and a trampoline built into the sand - both of which were great for the kids.

For Tongatapu I really recommend Ha'atafu Beach Resort - it's on the western side of the island about a half hour drive from nuku'alofa. Very kid friendly and nice casual atmosphere - we stayed there on both trips - it was definitely our favourite place in terms of suiting the whole family. Have you had a look at the accommodation listings on the Tonga Visitors Bureau website? I'd start there and then check back here with your preferred options for recommendations (or warnings) from others.

LOL...

On Tongatapu, I would certainly second Ha'atafu; very nicely done, great location for families.

Another suggestion on Vava'u would be Lucky's beach houses- http://www.talihaubeach.com/index.php The Green House might suit you. It is run by a very welcoming family, the beach is ok and good snorkelling off it, kayak hire is available at the resort, and you can easily pop to Mala to visit by kayak or on Kurt's (the owners) boat. Lucky's is on the island of Utangake, which is connected to Vava'u and Neiafu by a road bridge. The local village welcomes you to visit.

If you want the paradise island experience, Mala- http://www.malaisland.com may be more what you are looking for, though it doesn't have kayak rental. If you want the option of self catering (though Lynn's cooking is wonderful), want to be able to get into town, or want to experience local culture, I would suggest Lucky's.

Edited by: fyrelizard

Is the Paradise really over and done with?? I thought it was just a fire that destroyed the restaurant and adjacent areas, but the units were OK.

Anyone have up-to-date info on this???

If it is or will be open, it is a good place for families, with the pool, etc.

Thanks for everyones feedback.

The report I read about the paradise hotel was

"the Paradise International Hotel has burnt down part of the hotel ie. from the bar to the office area and conference room all gone about 11 oclock last night, no one died but the police investigation is not sure what caused the bad damages. It is said the fire started from the kitchen."

We were recently in Tonga and stayed at the Royal Sunset Resort on Atata- I have a young daughter and found the resort pleasant and lovely - we had a wonderful holiday. They had different water sports and fishing you can choose from and the staff were just wonderful with my daughter.
Happy holidays.