Tonga vs Cook Islands - any thoughts? Which is more expensive?

Hi all,

my wife and I are planning a trip to the pacific in august/september. We have about four weeks at our disposal, and will probably be flying through NZ/Australia. Now, were struggling to decide which island group to visit. Our goal is mainly to relax, but we would also like to get to know the local culture and lifestyle. Were history buffs and love archeological sites (if there are any). Doesnt have to be luxurious at all, as long as the available accomodation is decent and clean. We would like to travel a bit between different islands.

Tonga and the Cooks seem the most interesting so far. Tonga because of the culture and the sense of being someplace really different, the Cooks because of the gorgeous lagoons and since it seems to be quite an easy-going, relaxed sort of place.

Any thoughts/experiences/preferences that could help us decide? Is the price level about the same?

Also, does anyone have any experience with the new Tongan airline (Real Tonga)? Is it reliable?

Thanks in advance for the info!

I have yet to visit the Cooks, but some things are undeniable:

Tonga is certainly cheaper - in fact I think it is the 2nd cheapest country in the South Pacific, after Fiji.
Lower living costs apart, it is much easier to get around the islands without flying than in the Cooks.

Tonga must also rank as the most traditional of the Polynesian countries.
Where else do you see people wearing grass skirts and handwoven mats even at the international airport, and in the capital "city", and doing so for tradition, not as part of a performance for visitors?