Far and Away Adventures

The Ultimate Travel Podca
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Join "Far and Away Adventures" as we take you deep into the heart of the world’s most captivating destinations. Go beyond the ordinary to uncover hidden stories, vibrant cultures, and undiscovered treasures that define each place. From ancient traditions and local legends to secret spots only the insiders know, each episode offers a fresh perspective on travel. Experience the magic of exploring the unexpected, connect with fascinating people, and be inspired by the adventures that await in every corner of the globe.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    South Pacific Tourism Organization CEO: The Strategy Behind Sustainable Pacific Travel

    In this episode, we talk about the South Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) with CEO Chris and what’s shaping tourism across the region right now. If a Pacific trip is on your radar, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and plan with expert support at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer invites Chris to explain SPTO’s mandate: to market and develop tourism in a sustainable manner for the region. Chris outlines the scope—member countries and territories across Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia—and he also highlights members that many travelers don’t immediately associate with the “South Pacific conversation,” including Timor-Leste and Easter Island. From the beginning, the episode emphasizes a core truth travelers often miss: these islands are not interchangeable. The region is diverse in language, culture, and traditions, and SPTO works to help markets understand those differences rather than flattening everything into one stereotype. Chris then walks through the strategic pillars shaping SPTO’s next phase. He describes three key policies driving the strategic plan: a Pacific sustainable tourism policy framework, a digital strategy, and a Pacific tourism statistic strategy. Normand connects that to the real traveler experience—how sustainability goals influence the kind of tourism development destinations want, how digital improvements affect trip planning, and how better statistics can help destinations understand what’s working without guessing. Chris also reflects on how COVID changed the conversation across the Pacific, sharing that leaders signed a statement of commitment to transition tourism to be more sustainable moving forward. He notes that digitalization became especially important during that period, and he also acknowledges challenges, including labor loss from tourism to other sectors and overseas—realities that destinations and travelers are still navigating. A major focus of the conversation is connectivity. Chris says improving air connectivity into the region is one of the strongest priorities reflected in SPTO’s strategic plan, and Normand notes how uneven connectivity can be across island nations. Chris also explains how SPTO helps smaller destinations compete and connect with travelers by running targeted promotions. He highlights “Treasures of the Pacific,” a short-haul initiative focusing on Australia and New Zealand that promotes lesser-known, undiscovered destinations. He adds that SPTO encourages niche tourism for smaller island states because their environments and ocean areas can be fragile and need protection. In the same spirit, Chris mentions supporting more cruise expedition cruising into smaller destinations—an approach that can match a region where nature and culture are the product and must be protected. When Normand asks how SPTO can represent many diverse destinations as one brand, Chris explains the logic: long-haul markets often don’t know where Pacific island countries are globally, so SPTO first helps “locate” the region in people’s minds. Then, by uniting as a region, destinations can pool limited resources, share digital and marketing costs, and promote more effectively than they could alone. Chris closes with a clear message to travelers: the South Pacific is not all the same—come enjoy it, and respect it. If you want help choosing the right island nation (or building a multi-destination plan around real air connectivity), Far and Away Adventures can design and book an itinerary that fits your priorities and travels smoothly.

    8 min

  2. 3 DAYS AGO

    Seventh Heaven Fiji: Floating Gourmet Dining, Cocktails, Snorkeling & Coral Garden Stories

    In this episode we talk about Seventh Heaven Fiji, a one-of-a-kind floating restaurant and bar experience in the South Pacific, and how to build it into a well-timed Fiji itinerary with Far and Away Adventures.com (https://farandawayadventures.com). Host Normand Schafer sits down with Casa, a reservation and sales executive from Seventh Heaven, to unpack what it is, where it’s accessed from, and what to expect once you step onto the platform surrounded by turquoise water and reef. This conversation is designed for travelers who love experiences that feel “only in Fiji”—the kind of day where the venue itself is part of the adventure. Normand describes the setting as a floating space that looks almost like an idyllic villa on the water, with lounge areas to relax in the sun and easy access to the ocean. Casa explains that Seventh Heaven operates as a floating restaurant and bar, reached by boat, and she gives a practical overview of the day-trip structure: two departure times are discussed, with one option running about six hours from departure and another running about five hours. If you’re trying to decide how to fit this into your broader itinerary—resort check-in times, other tours, or a multi-island schedule—those time blocks are essential. We also cover the guest policy that surprises some travelers: kids are welcomed, but there’s a strict minimum age of 10 years and above, described as a safety measure. If you’re traveling with family groups or multi-generation parties, it’s a detail worth noting early so you can plan accordingly and avoid disappointment. Transfers and pickup logistics are a major theme, because Fiji days often hinge on getting to the right marina at the right time. Casa notes that general hotel pickups are part of what they advertise, and we talk about Denarau as the transfer hub referenced in the episode, along with the approximate boat ride time described. There’s also mention of group pickup options and a Marriott jetty pickup (with a minimum group size) intended to reduce back-and-forth travel. Even if you’re an experienced traveler, these small Fiji logistics can be the difference between a smooth day and a stressful one—so we keep the focus on what’s said in the episode and how it affects your schedule. Once onboard, Casa highlights the food and drink experience: a signature Seventh Heaven cocktail is presented as a must-try for those who want it, and she explains they have a full operational kitchen with chefs and an à la carte menu. The conversation calls out approachable options like pizza and burgers, including mention of wood-made pizzas, plus a traditional Fijian dish, kokoda, for travelers who want to taste something local. Importantly, the episode clarifies that food and drinks are priced separately and paid upon consumption, so you can plan your spend based on how you want your day to feel—light snacks, a full meal, or a long lunch in the sun. Beyond dining, the experience is about being in the ocean environment. Casa describes a coral reef setting and a coral garden initiative that began a couple of years prior (as referenced), with the goal of supporting sustainability. Depending on the time of year, guests may be involved in coral planting or enjoy snorkeling access. The reef-protection rule is clear: no fins are allowed for snorkeling, described as a way to help protect the coral. For travelers who care about the environment—and for anyone who’s seen how fragile reef systems can be—this is a meaningful part of the story. If Seventh Heaven Fiji sounds like your kind of day—and you want it timed perfectly with your resort location, transfer needs, and other Fiji highlights—connect with a Far and Away Adventures specialist at Far and Away Adventures.com (https://farandawayadventures.com). We’ll help you shape the right itinerary so this floating dining and reef experience fits smoothly into the trip you’re building.

    9 min

  3. 19 APR

    Solomon Airlines Explained: Routes, Comfort, and How to Explore Beyond Honiara

    In this episode, we talk about Solomon Airlines with guests Jenny and Shandi, including how the national carrier connects travelers to the Solomon Islands and makes remote island exploration more accessible. If this destination is on your radar, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and start planning at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer learns what Solomon Airlines is, how it’s positioned as the national carrier, and why the airline plays such a big role in linking a far-flung island nation to both international gateways and domestic regions across the country’s provinces. The conversation is designed to help travelers understand the “how do I actually get around?” piece that often decides whether a remote destination feels doable. Jenny and Shandi outline the network at a high level: a wide domestic reach across multiple ports and key international routes they mention, along with the fact that there are two international entry points discussed—Honiara and Munda. They also share what passengers can expect onboard, emphasizing Solomon Islands hospitality and a friendly, full-service feel. We cover comfort details like legroom and include onboard meals and beverages, and we also discuss baggage allowances mentioned for economy and business travelers, plus an additional allowance for sports equipment. For many travelers planning a dive- or adventure-leaning trip, that extra gear flexibility can be a meaningful detail, even before you get into the specifics of activities. From there, Normand asks how the airline supports tourism growth and awareness. The guests describe partnerships and campaigns with tourism stakeholders, and they position domestic connectivity as one of the biggest ways the airline supports visitor experience—because it lets travelers spread out beyond the capital. That leads into the most repeated piece of advice in the episode: go beyond Honiara. Shandi encourages first-time visitors to use the flight network to explore other provinces and islands, because that’s where you can experience the culture, hospitality, and variety that make the Solomon Islands feel unique. To wrap up, the guests highlight a lesser-known destination: Malaita Province and the area around Auki. They describe it as culturally rich and distinct from more commonly discussed areas, including unique lagoon settings with bungalows on artificial islands and additional mountainous locations to explore. If you want help matching the right flights to the right islands and building an itinerary with smart pacing, Far and Away Adventures can help you design and book a Solomon Islands trip that feels smooth, intentional, and unforgettable.

    9 min

  4. 17 APR

    Serenity Island Resort: Barefoot Bures, Beach Snorkeling, Turtle Conservation, and New Glamping in 2026

    In this episode, we talk about Serenity Island Resort and why it’s one of Fiji’s most accessible island escapes for travelers who want a relaxed, barefoot vibe with easy snorkeling, casual comfort, and a meaningful conservation element. If you’re planning a trip to Fiji and want help choosing the right island stay and transfer plan, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer is joined by Jess, Sales and Marketing Coordinator at Serenity Island Resort, who describes Serenity as a 48-acre “one island, one resort” property designed to feel relaxed and rustic rather than formal and five-star. Jess explains the resort currently has 33 individual standalone bures—traditional Fijian-style accommodations that include air conditioning and private ensuites—making it a practical option for travelers who want a casual island atmosphere without sacrificing comfort. A major theme of the conversation is accessibility. Jess describes the primary access route as a short boat ride from Vuda Marina, and she also mentions an alternate route from Denarau with South Sea Cruises, which can be useful for travelers building a broader Fiji itinerary. Once you arrive, the experience is intentionally low stress: wake up at your leisure, breakfast is included, then spend the day exactly how you want—pool time, beach time, and water time without complicated logistics. Jess highlights that guests can snorkel straight off the beaches where the reef drops down, describing beautiful coral that makes it easy to enjoy the marine environment without a big excursion. She also notes non-motorized water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are included, and that guests can walk or run around the island as part of the laid-back island routine. One of the most distinctive features Jess shares is Serenity’s turtle conservation program. She explains the resort has three turtle pools and currently has baby turtles on site, and that turtles are released at around a year and a half old. That conservation element adds a meaningful layer for travelers who want their island stay to include something beyond relaxation. When Normand asks about popular activities, Jess’s answer is refreshingly simple: relaxing. She describes Serenity as not being a typical five-star resort, but rather a place where people come to “flop and drop,” unwind, and disconnect. For guests who do want extra outings, she mentions optional add-ons like arranging jet skis and helping guests visit Cloud 9 or Seventh Heaven. Jess also notes that the resort is described as enjoyable year-round, and she mentions Fiji’s mild “winter” conditions in the conversation. The episode ends with a major update: Serenity Sands glamping tents opening in September 2025. Jess describes 10 new glamping tents that sleep up to four people, with private decking, a king bed plus bunk beds, a private ensuite, and air conditioning. She also mentions new amenities planned for the glamping area, including a pool, bar, restaurants, and barbecue facilities, with the tents located right on the beach. If you’re looking for a simple Fiji island escape with snorkeling off the beach—and want to choose between relaxed bures or the new glamping option—Far and Away Adventures can help you build the right plan and make the whole trip seamless.

    6 min

  5. 12 APR

    Samoa Tourism Authority Insider Guide: Culture, Events, and First-Trip Tips

    In this episode, we talk about discovering Samoa with an expert from the Samoa Tourism Authority, covering the cultural heartbeat of the islands along with practical timing tips for travelers planning their first visit. If Samoa is on your wish list, begin at Far and Away Adventures.com and plan with confidence at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer is joined by Losa, who shares the Tourism Authority’s mission: inviting the world to experience Samoa’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and the warmth that visitors feel the moment they meet the people. A key theme of the conversation is that Samoa isn’t positioned as mass tourism—Losa describes it as a place to slow down, find peace, and feel rejuvenated while still having access to comfort and luxury when you want it. We dig into what makes Samoa stand out in the South Pacific for travelers who want an authentic, living culture rather than a destination that feels “resort-only.” Losa explains the unique welcome and traditional ceremonies that help visitors feel included, and she highlights cultural experiences that consistently impress first-timers. Fiafia Nights come up as a top recommendation: an opportunity to enjoy local food and witness performances, including dancing and fire dancing. She also points to cultural village tours where travelers can engage with carving, watch tattooing, learn about tapa-making, and experience the umu—traditional cooking using heated stones, fresh local ingredients, and leaves that create a smoky, flavorful result. Normand adds personal perspective from traveling with his family, describing how hands-on cultural village moments can become the most meaningful memories of the trip. You’ll also hear why the “drive in” matters in Samoa. Losa describes what visitors notice quickly: the landscape, villages, open-roof fale, and the matai chief system—signals that culture isn’t hidden away for special occasions; it’s visible in everyday life. From there, the episode moves into timing and travel planning. Losa notes that June through August is the busiest period, while September can be a strong choice for culture-focused travelers thanks to the Teuila Festival, night markets with singing and dancing, and events like the Miss Samoa pageant and parade. She also mentions outrigger canoeing as a popular activity. For travelers who want relaxation first, she emphasizes that Samoa’s weather is wonderful year-round, with rainy and dry seasons but consistently beautiful conditions. We also touch on responsible travel. Losa shares that Samoa Tourism Authority is involved in waste management practices, awareness programs aimed at reducing litter, and promoting solar energy approaches in communities and properties—part of a broader move toward sustainability. And to wrap, she offers two “don’t miss” experiences: the To-Sua Trench and Piula Cave Pools. If you want Samoa to feel easy—right timing, right experiences, and the right pace—Far and Away Adventures can help you design and book an itinerary that’s culturally rich, logistically smooth, and tailored to the way you actually like to travel.

    8 min

  6. 10 APR

    Savasi Island Resort: Private Island Seclusion, Volcanic Pathways, and Savusavu Adventures

    In this episode, we talk about Savasi Island Resort and what makes it a standout Fiji escape for travelers who want privacy, lush nature, and “surprise around every corner” exploration in the Savusavu region. If you’re planning a trip to Fiji and want expert help matching the right island region and resort style to your goals, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer is joined by Christina Gerovvak, Sales Manager at Savasi Island Resort, to unpack who Savasi is ideal for, how guests arrive, and what the experience feels like once you settle into the island rhythm. Christina explains that Savasi serves a strong couples market—especially honeymooners—and also welcomes some multi-generation groups traveling with older children who want to unwind, disconnect from busy life, and reconnect with each other. The defining theme she returns to is privacy in a lush, reef-line setting, paired with an “element of surprise” that keeps the island feeling fresh even if you stay several nights. Christina describes how guests can wander through dramatic volcanic rock pathways that lead down to private stretches of beach, explore reef areas when the tide is low, and discover features like an internal marina/waterway running through the island. That exploratory design isn’t just scenery—it’s built into the experiences Savasi offers, including kayaking through inland waterways and kayaking out toward natural blowholes, encouraging guests to move slowly and discover the island at their own pace. A major planning and location point is that Savasi sits in Fiji’s north near Savusavu, which offers a different feel from the main arrival areas around Nadi. Christina explains the transfer pattern described in the episode: a flight into Savusavu from Nadi, a short drive down the Hibiscus Highway, and a straightforward arrival onto the island. She also highlights a unique advantage: Savasi is connected to the mainland by a bridge, which can make transfers feel simpler while still delivering a private-island atmosphere. That bridge connection also supports something many travelers want right now—combining seclusion with the ability to explore the broader destination. Christina notes that Savusavu and the surrounding northern region are rural, lush, and underdeveloped compared to more built-up resort corridors, and she describes this as an adventure travel trend: learning more about the destination you’re actually in. The cultural side of the experience comes through strongly as well. Christina explains that staff come from local surrounding villages, giving guests the opportunity to connect one-on-one and learn about Fijian life in a warm, personal way. She mentions cultural evenings and a kava ceremony (hosted by staff) as part of how guests engage with culture on property, and she also notes that Savasi supports local sustainable businesses that showcase the uniqueness of the north. Normand asks what surprises guests most, and Christina gives a helpful expectation-setter: Savasi isn’t best known for one long, wide sandy beach; instead, it offers multiple coves, lush greenery, volcanic features, and a natural, less-developed feel. She also mentions unique regional experiences such as a pearl farm and a chocolate farm and factory. When asked about timing, Christina emphasizes that any time of year can be a great time to visit for privacy and seclusion. Her first-timer tip is memorable: expect the unexpected, allow your mind and body to slow down, ask about the cave dining experience, and prepare to feel emotional when leaving—because guests often report that the heartfelt service and connection with staff become the main takeaway. If Savasi sounds like your kind of Fiji—private, green, exploratory, and deeply personal—Far and Away Adventures can help you place it into the right itinerary flow for your dates, style, and travel priorities.

    8 min

  7. 6 APR

    Fish ‘n Fins Palau: Blue Corner, Spawning Dives, Ocean Hunter Liveaboard, and Shark Conservation

    In this episode, we talk about diving in Palau with Deer from Fish ‘n Fins and Ocean Hunter, and why this small Pacific nation is considered one of the world’s premier dive destinations. Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com are mentioned at the start because planning Palau well—especially if you want spawning action or liveaboard time—requires aligning dates, experience, and goals with the right on-water strategy. Deer describes Palau’s “all of the above” dive lineup: manta rays, sharks, major spawning aggregations, and more than 30 World War II wrecks. He shares how Fish ‘n Fins operates as a full-service dive shop with a large fleet of speedboats built for convenience, and he introduces Ocean Hunter, a cozy liveaboard with eight cabins for up to 16 guests, known for strong food and access to the best sites. We cover the must-dive sites most travelers ask for—Blue Corner and German Channel—then go deeper into the signature phenomenon Deer says is Palau’s “real attraction”: spawning dives. He explains how large spawning events occur in relation to full and new moons, and that there are also seasonal spawnings, including a Moorish idol spawning window described for certain months that can draw heavy shark activity. Deer emphasizes that shark feeding is forbidden in Palau and that what divers see is natural behavior in a richly protected ecosystem. He also notes Palau’s coral resilience and why scientists visit to study corals. Conservation is a major part of the episode. Deer explains that Fish ‘n Fins participates in plastic cleanups and awareness programs, and runs an annual Shark Week that has been operating for decades, including educational outreach to local students about the importance of sharks. He references Palau’s shark sanctuary reputation and the broader marine-protection mindset that supports healthy reefs. For planning, Deer recommends using moon phases and tides to time spawning opportunities, arriving a few days before key windows, and respecting experience thresholds and diver-number limits put in place to reduce impacts on fish behavior. If Palau is on your list, a Far and Away Adventures specialist can help you match your timing and diving goals to the best approach at Far and Away Adventures.com (https://farandawayadventures.com).

    9 min

  8. 5 APR

    Return to Paradise Samoa: Hollywood Roots, Samoan Culture, and a Legendary Beach

    In this episode, we talk about Return to Paradise in Samoa and why this stretch of sand continues to capture travelers’ imaginations decades after its cinematic moment. If you’re considering a South Pacific escape, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and begin planning at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer sits down with Raz from Return to Paradise to explore how a 1950s Hollywood film helped put this beach on the map, and what the setting feels like today—white sand, coral, and lush rainforest wrapped into one dramatic coastline. Raz shares what it means to be caretakers of a place that is both internationally known and deeply personal: it’s their village, their home, and a family-led operation. We talk through what guests can expect at the resort, including the overall standard of stay and the sense of space that helps travelers feel relaxed rather than boxed in. Raz explains how the property works for couples, honeymooners, families, independent travelers, and celebration trips, with enough room to find privacy without feeling isolated. The conversation also touches on dining and social spaces on-site, and why the resort experience can be both comfortable and distinctly Samoa rather than “anywhere resort style.” A major focus of the episode is culture and connection. Raz describes the weekly village walk, where guests can learn how homes are set up, how daily life flows, and why certain customs—like family burial sites on the land—carry meaning and help define identity and heritage. Normand adds a respectful traveler tip that many first-time visitors appreciate: Samoa’s evening prayer time around 7:00 p.m. is widely observed, and being mindful of noise and behavior in villages is part of traveling well. We also cover how to round out a first Samoa trip with excursions beyond the beach. Raz shares that several experiences are close by, including a turtle sanctuary and a giant clam tour, along with waterfalls and other island sights that can be folded into a stay. Normand mentions Sliding Rock as a memorable stop, and Raz lists additional nearby highlights travelers often add to their itinerary. If you want a Samoa plan that feels effortless—right resort choice, the right number of nights, and day trips that match your pace—work with Far and Away Adventures. We’ll help you design a trip that’s relaxing, culturally rich, and genuinely unforgettable.

    9 min
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Join "Far and Away Adventures" as we take you deep into the heart of the world’s most captivating destinations. Go beyond the ordinary to uncover hidden stories, vibrant cultures, and undiscovered treasures that define each place. From ancient traditions and local legends to secret spots only the insiders know, each episode offers a fresh perspective on travel. Experience the magic of exploring the unexpected, connect with fascinating people, and be inspired by the adventures that await in every corner of the globe.

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