Tokelau

Visiting Tokelau is less of a vacation and more of an expedition. With no airport, no harbour for large cruise ships, and no paved roads, this territory of New Zealand is one of the most inaccessible places on Earth. For families with older children or teenagers, the journey itself is the first lesson in geography and patience. The adventure begins in Apia, Samoa, where you board the inter-atoll ferry for a voyage that takes approximately 24 to 30 hours. This isolation has preserved a way of life centered on community, family, and the ocean, offering a profound contrast to the fast-paced modern world.

Geographically, the country consists of three tropical atolls: Atafu, Nukunonu, and Fakaofo. Each is a ribbon of coral islets surrounding a central lagoon. Nukunonu is often the most practical base for visitors, home to the Luana Liki Hotel, the only hotel across the atolls. Here, the lagoon is the main playground. The water is clear, warm, and generally safe for swimming, though parents should always monitor tides and currents. Families can spend days snorkeling among coral heads, fishing with locals using handlines, or simply walking the reef flats at low tide to spot crabs and shellfish.

Cultural immersion is immediate. Tokelau is the world’s first nation to be powered 100% by renewable solar energy, a fascinating real-world science lesson for young travelers. The community operates on the principle of inati, where fish and food are shared equally among all residents. Visitors are often welcomed warmly, and children are treated with great affection by the locals. You might watch men carving wooden canoes (paopao) or women weaving mats from pandanus leaves. Sunday is strictly observed as a day of rest and church attendance, during which the islands fall completely silent.

Practical considerations are vital for a trip this remote. There are no banks or ATMs, so families must bring sufficient New Zealand dollars in cash for their entire stay. Internet access exists but is slow and expensive, making this a true digital detox. Medical facilities are basic-essentially small clinics-so comprehensive travel insurance and a well-stocked first aid kit are non-negotiable. Sea sickness medication is highly recommended for the crossing from Samoa. Accommodation is simple, typically involving guest houses or homestays with cold showers and shared meals. For families willing to forgo luxury for authenticity, Tokelau offers a rare window into sustainable island living.