Just Travel

Welcome to Travel, the podcast that takes you around the world one destination at a time. Whether you’re planning your next vacation, looking for travel inspiration, or wanting insider tips on the best places to stay, eat, and explore, we’ve got you covered. From city escapes and cultural hotspots to hidden gems and adventure destinations, we bring you expert advice, travel hacks, and stories from seasoned travelers. Join us as we explore the globe and help you plan unforgettable journeys filled with discovery and excitement!

  1. 3D AGO

    Solomon Airlines 101: Where They Fly and How to Plan Your First Solomon Islands Trip

    In this episode, we talk about Solomon Airlines with Jenny and Shandi, focusing on the basics travelers want before they commit to a remote destination: where you can fly, how you connect domestically, and what the onboard experience is like. If you’re ready to plan the South Pacific with expert support, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and start at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer guides the conversation through what Solomon Airlines is and why it matters—because when a country is spread across islands and provinces, domestic flights can be the difference between “I’d love to go someday” and “this is actually doable.” Jenny and Shandi describe Solomon Airlines as the national carrier and explain that it connects the Solomon Islands with the world while also serving many domestic points across the country’s provinces. They discuss international routes mentioned in the episode and the fact that travelers can enter through international points discussed—Honiara (the capital) and Munda (direct to the Western Province). For many first-time visitors, understanding those gateways helps you plan a trip with fewer backtracks and a better starting point for your itinerary. We also cover what flying feels like. The guests emphasize “Solomon Islands hospitality” as a defining feature and mention comfort details like legroom, plus included meals and beverages depending on flight timing. They discuss baggage allowances for economy and business travelers and note an additional allowance for sports equipment—useful if your trip includes adventure gear. Normand also asks about the airline’s role in tourism growth, and the guests share that domestic connectivity and partnerships help drive awareness and make it easier for travelers to explore beyond one city. The most practical advice in the episode is also the simplest: don’t stop at Honiara. Shandi recommends going beyond the capital into other provinces and islands to experience the culture and hospitality that make the destination special. Jenny adds that talking with locals is one of the fastest ways to feel connected and welcomed. To close, they share a lesser-known destination idea: Malaita Province and Auki, described as culturally rich and distinct, with unique lagoon and mountainous settings. If you want help turning these ideas into a clean, efficient plan—routes, pacing, and the right island mix—Far and Away Adventures can design and book an itinerary that makes Solomon Islands travel feel easy.

    9 min
  2. 5D AGO

    Barefoot Fiji Done Right: Serenity Island’s Simple Escape, Baby Turtles, and New Glamping Tents

    In this episode, we talk about Serenity Island Resort and why it hits that sweet spot for travelers who want an easy Fiji island escape without the formality—just beaches, snorkeling, relaxed hospitality, and the freedom to do as much or as little as you want. If you’re planning Fiji, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com so your trip fits your mood, your timeline, and your travel style. 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” getaway that’s intentionally barefoot, rustic, and traditional rather than polished and five-star. She explains the resort currently offers 33 individual standalone bures—traditional Fijian-style accommodations with air conditioning and private ensuites—so you get comfort without losing that casual island feel. What makes Serenity especially appealing is how accessible it is. Jess describes reaching the island via a short boat ride from Vuda Marina, and she also mentions an alternate route from Denarau with South Sea Cruises. Once you arrive, the whole point is to slow down. Jess describes a typical day as not stressful at all: wake up whenever you want, breakfast is included, then drift between the pool, the beach, and the water. She highlights that you can snorkel straight off the beaches where the reef drops down, describing beautiful coral and easy marine access that doesn’t require a full-day excursion. She also notes non-motorized water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are included, and that some guests simply enjoy walking or even running around the island. The “Just Travel” charm in this episode is that Jess doesn’t oversell activities—she says the most popular activity is relaxing. Serenity isn’t trying to be a luxury showcase; it’s a real “flop and drop” island where the best plan is often no plan. That said, the resort still offers unique experiences. Jess mentions cooking classes (including kokoda) and shares details about Serenity’s turtle conservation work. She explains that 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. For many travelers, that kind of story becomes the thing they remember most because it’s meaningful, not just scenic. For guests who want extra outings beyond the island, Jess mentions options like arranging jet skis and helping guests visit Cloud 9 or Seventh Heaven. She also notes the resort is enjoyed year-round, describing Fiji’s mild seasonal shifts in the conversation. Then comes the big update: Serenity Sands glamping tents opening in September 2025. Jess describes 10 new glamping tents designed to take up to four people, featuring private decking, a king bed plus bunk beds, a private ensuite, and air conditioning—plus a new pool, bar, restaurants, and barbecue facilities, right on the beach. It’s “total glamping,” as she puts it, and a very new product for Fiji. If you want an island escape that’s easy, relaxed, and genuinely fun without being complicated—and you want help deciding whether bures or the new glamping option makes more sense—Far and Away Adventures can help you build the best plan and keep the logistics seamless.

    6 min
  3. APR 12

    Samoa Tourism Authority Guide: What to Do, When to Go, and What Not to Miss

    In this episode, we talk about Samoa with Losa from the Samoa Tourism Authority, keeping the conversation simple, practical, and focused on what travelers actually want to know. If you’re thinking about Samoa and want help turning ideas into a plan, begin at Far and Away Adventures.com and start planning at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer and Losa cover what the Tourism Authority does—promoting Samoa to the world and inviting visitors to experience the country’s natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Losa describes Samoa as a place to slow down, find peace, and feel rejuvenated, and she emphasizes that Samoa isn’t built as a “mass tourism” destination, which is exactly why many travelers fall in love with it. From there, the episode becomes a clear list of cultural experiences worth building into your itinerary. Losa recommends Fiafia Nights as a top attraction—an evening where you can taste Samoan food and enjoy performances that include dancing and fire dancing. She also highlights cultural village tours where travelers can engage with carving, observe tattooing, and learn about tapa-making. One of the most vivid parts of the discussion is the umu: Losa explains the traditional cooking process using heated stones and leaves to create a smoky, fresh meal from local ingredients. Normand adds a relatable family note, remembering how powerful it was to watch his kids learn hands-on skills at a cultural village, including traditional fire-starting and dancing with locals—moments that feel like genuine connection rather than a scripted show. We also talk about what you’ll notice the moment you land. Losa shares that even the drive from the airport tells a story: beautiful landscapes, villages, open-roof fale, and the matai chief system—cultural structures that are part of everyday life. Then comes the planning question: when should you go? Losa says June through August is the busiest period. If you want a time that feels more cultural and less crowded, she points to September and mentions the Teuila Festival, night markets with singing and dancing, the Miss Samoa pageant and parade, and outrigger canoeing as a popular activity. For travelers who just want relaxation, she notes the weather is beautiful year-round, with a rainy season and a dry season rather than a narrow travel window. Responsible travel is also part of the conversation. Losa shares that Samoa Tourism Authority is involved in waste management practices, awareness programs to reduce litter, and promoting solar energy approaches—efforts that align with sustainable tourism goals. Finally, she offers two “don’t leave without seeing it” experiences: the To-Sua Trench and Piula Cave Pools. If you want a straightforward Samoa plan—where to stay, how long to go, and how to fit culture and iconic swims into an easy pace—Far and Away Adventures can design an itinerary that fits you, so you can focus on enjoying Samoa instead of figuring it out as you go.

    8 min
  4. APR 10

    The Fiji That Surprises You: Savasi’s Volcanic Pathways, Reef Coves, and “Expect the Unexpected” Vibe

    In this episode, we talk about Savasi Island Resort and why it’s the kind of Fiji stay that surprises even well-traveled guests—less about a single postcard beach, and more about privacy, lush landscapes, and discovering hidden corners as you wander. If you’re planning Fiji, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com so your itinerary fits the experience you’re actually craving. Normand Schafer sits down with Christina Gerovvak, Sales Manager at Savasi Island Resort, and the conversation quickly paints Savasi as a private-island escape with a nature-led personality. Christina explains the resort’s strongest audience is couples—especially honeymooners—along with some multi-gen travelers with older children who want to disconnect from the pace of real life and reconnect with each other. What makes Savasi feel different is the way the island reveals itself. Christina describes an “element of surprise” where a simple walk can take you through dramatic volcanic rock pathways down to private stretches of beach, past reef areas you can explore when tides are low, and into new viewpoints that feel fresh even if you’ve already been there once. She even mentions an internal marina/waterway feature running through the island—one of those details that makes guests feel like they’re exploring rather than just staying. The experiences she highlights match that exploratory feeling, including kayaking through inland waterways and kayaking out toward natural blowholes. A big “Just Travel” takeaway is location. Savasi sits in Fiji’s northern region near Savusavu, which has a reputation for being more rural, more lush, and more naturally underdeveloped than the main arrival areas. Christina explains the transfer flow described in the episode: you fly from Nadi into Savusavu, then take a short drive down the Hibiscus Highway, and arrive to the island with help from staff who meet you at the airport. She also points out something that makes the logistics feel easier than people expect: Savasi is connected to the mainland by a bridge. That bridge doesn’t remove the private-island feel, but it does make transfers straightforward—and it also supports the idea that guests can explore not only the island but the surrounding Savusavu region, which Christina frames as a growing travel trend: learning more about the destination you’re in rather than staying entirely inside the resort bubble. The cultural connection is also a big part of what people remember. Christina says staff are from surrounding villages, and guests often form genuine one-on-one connections that become the main takeaway. She mentions cultural evenings and a kava ceremony as a way guests learn about Fijian tradition, and she notes Savasi supports local sustainable businesses that reflect the character of the north. Normand asks what surprises guests the most, and Christina gives a very useful reset: Savasi isn’t known for one long sandy beach, the way people sometimes imagine Fiji. Instead, you’ll find multiple coves, lush greenery, volcanic features, and a natural, underdeveloped feel—plus unique regional experiences such as a pearl farm, a chocolate farm, and a factory. When asked about the best time to visit, Christina says any time of year is great if your goal is privacy and seclusion. Her best advice is the phrase you’ll remember: expect the unexpected, allow your body and mind to slow down into island rhythm, ask about cave dining, and be prepared to feel emotional when leaving. And when Normand asks what guests repeat most often after they go home, Christina says it comes down to people: the warmth, heartfelt service, and the feeling that you don’t just leave as a guest—you leave as a friend. If you want that kind of Fiji, Far and Away Adventures can help you plan Savasi into a smooth Savusavu-based itinerary.

    8 min
  5. APR 6

    Palau’s Dive Magic: Blue Corner, Spawning Swarms, and the Feeling of Real Wild Nature

    In this episode, we talk about Palau with Deer from Fish ‘n Fins and Ocean Hunter, and it’s the kind of conversation that makes you want to pack your mask and fins immediately. Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com are mentioned early because Palau is the kind of destination where timing and goals matter—especially if you want more than a standard reef itinerary. Deer describes Palau as one of the world’s best dive destinations because it has everything: manta rays, sharks, major spawning dives, and more than 30 World War II wrecks. We talk about the iconic sites divers dream about—Blue Corner and German Channel—but the episode’s heartbeat is what Deer calls Palau’s deeper attraction: the spawning events. He explains how, before full and new moons, massive numbers of fish can gather to spawn, and how certain seasonal spawning periods can bring dramatic predator presence, all without artificial shark feeding. That’s an important detail: what you see in Palau is nature doing what nature does when it’s protected and thriving. We also hear about Ocean Hunter, the liveaboard option Deer represents—eight cabins, up to 16 guests, a cozy feel, and a reputation for great food along with great diving. It’s a reminder that the best dive trips aren’t only measured by bottom time; they’re also measured by how well you eat, sleep, and reset between epic dives. And because Palau is more than just the famous southern sites, Deer hints at something many travelers miss: northern areas that are less visited, where there have been sightings of remarkably large numbers of manta rays on a single dive. The episode also highlights the conservation mindset that underpins Palau’s reputation. Deer describes plastic cleanups and awareness programs, plus an annual Shark Week that has been running for decades and includes education for local students about why sharks matter. He also references Palau’s shark sanctuary reputation and the broader marine protection culture that keeps the reefs alive. If you want a dive trip that feels like the ocean is still wild, Palau belongs on your list—and Far and Away Adventures.com (https://farandawayadventures.com) can help you time it and plan it right.

    9 min
  6. APR 5

    Return to Paradise Samoa: The Simple Guide to a Legendary Beach Stay

    In this episode, we talk about Return to Paradise in Samoa, keeping it practical for travelers who want a clear picture of what it’s like and how to plan it well. If you’re ready to turn “someday” into a real trip, start with Far and Away Adventures.com and plan with help at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer is joined by Raz from Return to Paradise to unpack why this beach became famous, what makes the setting so visually stunning, and how the resort delivers an experience that’s both comfortable and distinctly Samoa. We discuss the destination in plain language—what you’ll see, what you’ll do, and what can make a first visit feel smooth rather than confusing. Raz shares the resort’s origin story tied to a Hollywood film shot on this beach in the 1950s, and explains what it’s like to host travelers on land that is also their village and family home. We talk about who the resort fits best—couples, honeymooners, families, independent travelers, and celebration trips—and why the overall space can feel relaxed and open rather than crowded. The idea is straightforward: you can show up, settle in, and enjoy the beach without feeling like you have to “work” for a vacation. At the same time, we explore what makes Samoa more than a beach destination. Raz describes a weekly village walk that introduces guests to village life and traditions, including how homes are structured and why certain customs exist. Normand adds a key cultural note that many visitors are grateful to know in advance: Samoa observes an evening prayer time around 7:00 p.m., and being mindful of noise and behavior when you’re outside the resort is a simple way to travel respectfully. We also talk about excursions and day trips close to Return to Paradise, including mentions of a turtle sanctuary, a giant clam tour, waterfalls, and other island highlights that can be added without turning your trip into a nonstop schedule. Normand calls out Sliding Rock as a memorable, fun stop. If you want an easy plan—right number of nights, the right mix of relaxation and exploring, and a resort choice that matches your style—Far and Away Adventures can help you put it together. We’ll guide you through the decisions so you can focus on the parts of travel that feel like freedom.

    9 min
  7. APR 3

    A True Private Island in Fiji: Royal Davui’s Adults-Only Romance, Sand Cay Picnics, and Soul Recharge

    In this episode, we talk about Royal Davui Island Resort and the kind of Fiji experience that feels quietly extraordinary: adults-only, truly private island luxury built around romance, seclusion, and that rare feeling of having paradise almost to yourself. If you’re planning a trip to Fiji and want help choosing the right resort for a honeymoon, anniversary, or couples retreat, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer is joined by Grant Syhower, Director of Sales and Marketing at Royal Davui Island Resort, and the conversation makes a clear point early: this resort was built with romance in mind, and privacy isn’t a marketing line—it’s structural. Grant explains that from one villa to another, guests often don’t even realize they have neighbors, and he emphasizes that Royal Davui is the only resort on the island, which creates a true private island experience rather than a resort cluster. Grant shares the island is about 10 acres and walkable in roughly 30 minutes, and that the resort is intentionally small: 16 villas total, with a maximum of 32 guests at any time. Every villa has its own private plunge pool, giving couples their own space to do absolutely nothing, uninterrupted. The water experience is central too. Grant notes that plunge pools are fresh water, and then “Mother Nature” is right there for ocean swims and snorkeling. He mentions incredible snorkeling right off the jetty, and Normand highlights how essential the marine environment is to the overall island-resort feeling. What’s especially compelling is how the resort lets couples choose their own rhythm. Grant describes a full menu of optional adventure activities—Hobie Cat sailing, kayaks, paddle boards, jet skis, resort fishing, diving, and more—while also leaning into the simple pleasures of slow days, pool lounging, a glass of rosé, and authentic Fijian hospitality. Then comes the signature experience that practically sells itself: the sand cay beach picnic. Grant explains they take one couple at a time and drop them on a pristine sand cay that only appears at low tide. They set you up with bean bags, umbrellas, and a picnic lunch, and leave you there for about three hours. He emphasizes the privacy: no cruise ships, no day visitors—just you and your spouse on your own little strip of sand. He even jokes that when it’s not booked, he tries to book himself a little holiday out there, which gives you a sense of how special that spot is. The episode also reminds listeners that romance doesn’t have to be isolated from culture. Grant shares that guests often love visiting a neighboring village on Beqa Island, where they can see local life—kids, the school, and a church service—hearing the beautiful Fijian singing that many travelers find unforgettable. Seasonality comes up too. Grant notes that May through September tends to be busier, often aligning with honeymoon and anniversary travel patterns, but he emphasizes there’s no bad time to visit Fiji and calls it a year-round destination, with warm water and enjoyable conditions even when rain passes through. Finally, Normand asks what guests say after they return home, and Grant shares a theme that repeats: “recharging the soul.” He tells a story about a guest who arrived depleted and left transformed after seven nights, with a new lease on life—exactly the kind of result couples hope for when they book a true retreat. If you want a Fiji escape that’s intimate, restorative, and unmistakably romantic, this episode will put Royal Davui on your shortlist—and Far and Away Adventures can help you plan it into the perfect honeymoon or anniversary itinerary.

    7 min
  8. MAR 29

    Niue: The Island Where You Don’t Pack a Book Because There’s Too Much to Do

    In this episode, we talk about Niue with Sarah from Niue Tourism—what makes the Rock of Polynesia so special, and how to plan a trip that’s equal parts adventure and recharge. For help planning, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and start here:https://farandawayadventures.com Niue is one of those places travelers describe with a grin because it feels like a secret. Sarah introduces it as a tiny raised coral island in the Pacific—so small that you can loop the whole island in about 64 kilometers—yet packed with experiences that fill your days. She shares a memorable line that captures the vibe perfectly: you don’t need to pack a book, because you simply won’t have time. That’s not because the island is hectic; it’s because every day offers another sea track to explore, another cave to swim into, another reef edge that looks different at low tide than it did yesterday. A key part of Niue’s identity is its geology. Sarah explains that because Niue is a raised rock, there are no rivers or streams. Instead, the ocean becomes the island’s signature feature, and she highlights the clarity and visibility that can reach up to 70 meters. For travelers who love snorkeling or diving, that detail immediately changes the mental picture: Niue isn’t only “nice water,” it’s the kind of water where the underwater world feels right in front of you. Normand adds his firsthand memory of Niue’s coastline caves and formations, describing dramatic cave systems and coves where you can splash into the water surrounded by stone. Sarah’s favorite way to guide first-timers is through the sea tracks. She says there are over 30 of them, and they’re all different. One might lead to a low-tide snorkeling spot. Another might take you through a cave system. Another might become a reef walk to features like the Tava Arches. The point is that Niue is designed by nature for exploration, and you get to choose how adventurous you want to be. Sarah calls Niue an island for “active relaxers,” meaning you don’t have to be an extreme athlete, but you do need enough fitness and agility to climb down to the reef, walk uneven paths, and swim often. The reward is that satisfying kind of tired you feel after a full day in salt water—then you wake up excited to do it again. Whales add a completely different layer to the story. Sarah explains that humpback whales migrate up from Antarctica and usually arrive around July, staying through October. She calls August and September the best months for swimming with whales, and she emphasizes how carefully regulated the experience is. Small groups, limited licenses, and a commitment not to expand access beyond what’s healthy for the whales—especially because many whales are with calves. For travelers, this translates into one major planning reality: if whale swims are on your bucket list, you need to book well in advance—Sarah suggests that people are booking for the following year. Culturally, Niue feels intimate in a way many travelers crave. Sarah notes the population is around 1,500, and she shares a local phrase: “Arrive as a visitor and leave as a friend.” She describes how travelers can connect naturally—joining a weaving group, playing golf, or visiting the bowls club—without feeling like they’re being “sold” a cultural moment. English is widely spoken, and the community is welcoming. Timing-wise, Sarah says there’s never a bad time, but points out that December and January can be more humid and the ocean can get choppier, and that some businesses slow down for family time during the off-season. March through November is described as popular, with fishing mentioned too (including wahoo around April). Her best first-timer advice: take an island tour on your first morning, then self-explore with confidence—and don’t miss Aiki Cave, a low-tide-access cave she calls her favorite place in the world.

    10 min

Ratings & Reviews

About

Welcome to Travel, the podcast that takes you around the world one destination at a time. Whether you’re planning your next vacation, looking for travel inspiration, or wanting insider tips on the best places to stay, eat, and explore, we’ve got you covered. From city escapes and cultural hotspots to hidden gems and adventure destinations, we bring you expert advice, travel hacks, and stories from seasoned travelers. Join us as we explore the globe and help you plan unforgettable journeys filled with discovery and excitement!

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