Vacation

In this episode, we talk about the behind-the-scenes work that keeps an Aranui 5 (or Aranoa) voyage feeling like a true vacation—even when remote-island logistics get unpredictable. If you want expert help planning a French Polynesia voyage that feels seamless from the moment you land, visit https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand interviews Spencer Hata Utuya, a guide onboard Aranui 5, to understand how the guide team creates calm, cultural immersion, and continuity for guests.Spencer’s story is a reminder that a relaxing vacation is often built on someone else’s preparation. He studied business management and marketing and didn’t plan to work in tourism or hospitality. After returning home and finding his first choices didn’t work out due to lack of experience, he found the guide job onboard the ship and started in September 2022. By late 2025, he had grown into a role that blends storytelling, coordination, and guest care—exactly the combination needed to help travelers relax into the experience rather than worry about the moving parts.A major vacation insight from the episode is how consistently guides prepare. Spencer describes studying nightly and continuing to review notes about each island, even when he already knows the material. He also notes that preparation is practical: if guide assignments change suddenly due to sickness, accidents, or personal events within the team, someone who prepared can step into another role immediately. For vacationers, that means the day still flows, even when staffing realities shift behind the scenes.Spencer also explains how itineraries are handled in a way that supports the vacation mindset. The next voyage’s program begins being drafted during the current voyage, often a few days before the end, laying out daily structure, excursions, and connections. But the team leaves room for adjustments because changes can come from local organizations and island partners. Nothing is “set in stone,” and even the night before arrival, something can change. For guests, this can actually protect the vacation feeling: rather than forcing a plan that no longer fits reality, the ship adapts—and the guide team communicates changes in a way that keeps everyone informed and calm.Two stories show the kind of disruption a guide team must absorb so guests don’t have to. On a Marquesas sailing, a planned dance performance didn’t happen due to a family situation affecting the performers. Spencer describes how that affects logistics and passenger mood, and how guides manage expectations respectfully while keeping the day meaningful. On an Australs sailing, a bus tour ran into a chain of issues—fuel problems, replacement logistics, forgotten keys—and guests waited. Spencer explains how guides fill those moments with conversation, walking, and context about the island’s landscape, so the day remains an experience rather than a frustration.The episode also offers a glimpse into how shore experiences are built through local partnerships. Higher-level teams negotiate contracts and work within budgets for each island, choosing associations and partners based on cost, availability, and organization. Spencer closes with practical vacation prep tips that reduce stress: pack good shoes for hikes and day trips, water shoes for coral areas, mosquito repellent, and a raincoat for sudden weather changes. He also emphasizes arriving with an open mind—Polynesian hospitality is warm, friendly, and sometimes physically expressive, and understanding that helps travelers relax into the culture. If you want a vacation that feels both restorative and culturally rich, this episode explains why Aranui-style voyages stand out: the guide team’s preparation and adaptability keep the experience flowing, so guests can focus on what they came for—connection, culture, and the joy of being far away. For planning help, visit https://farandawayadventures.com.

In this episode, we talk about building a Moorea vacation around comfort, calm, and flexibility at Niu Beach Hotel. Sylvia Martino explains how this lagoon-front boutique property allows travelers to slow down and enjoy the island without the structure of a large resort.We explore why vacationers appreciate having space, kitchens, and easy water access, and how sunset-facing bungalows enhance the overall experience. This episode is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, restorative Moorea vacation.

In this episode, we talk about a vacation day that feels effortless but unforgettable: a guided lagoon adventure in Moorea with Nico from Moorea Water Games at the Sofitel Nautical Center. If you want help planning a vacation where the logistics stay simple and the experiences feel perfectly timed, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com. This episode captures the sweet spot many travelers want—easygoing, beautiful, and still packed with “wow.”Normand introduces the lagoon the way vacationers feel it: bright turquoise water, calm shallows, and the kind of scenery that makes you forget what day it is. He’s talking with Nico right at the water’s edge, and the conversation quickly becomes about what turns a good vacation activity into a great one. Nico explains that Moorea Water Games operates from inside the Sofitel resort and faces a lagoon area they consider one of the island’s best snorkeling spots. For travelers, that’s already a vacation win: a stunning setting that’s easy to access and doesn’t require you to spend the day commuting.Nico shares how the experience evolved. The nautical center originally focused on rentals—kayaks and paddleboards—but the underwater world pushed him to expand into guided snorkeling. Instead of building a high-volume tour, he created something intentionally small: a small boat, a small group, and a route that visits multiple sites so the experience stays varied. Normand emphasizes how much the small-group format matters, especially for travelers who want a calmer vibe in the water and a guide who can actually pay attention to guests.The sea scooter is the vacation-friendly detail that changes everything. Nico calls it a sea scooter; Normand describes it as an e-bike in the water. Either way, the benefit is clear: you glide instead of grind. Less fin-kicking means less fatigue, which is exactly what many vacationers want—especially if you’re not trying to turn snorkeling into a workout. Nico also mentions full-face mask options that can help some guests feel more comfortable. The overall takeaway is that this tour is designed for enjoyment and ease, including for beginners and people who might be nervous in the water.Of course, vacations are made of moments, and this episode is full of them: reef fish, friendly stingrays, and the possibility of turtles around a cleaning station that Nico calls a “turtle spa.” They also talk about how the lagoon changes from site to site—warmer shallow zones near the island, and cooler water near deeper areas and a drop-off. That’s the kind of detail that helps you picture the day and decide what will make you most comfortable, whether that’s a rash guard, a wetsuit, or simply planning a warm drink afterward.The conversation also keeps reef protection in the frame without making it heavy. Nico explains that the lagoon area is described as a marine reserve with rules like no anchoring, and that authorities limit boats and activities to reduce impact. Before each departure, their team gives a briefing that includes safety and coral etiquette—don’t step on the reef, follow the guide, and move carefully in shallow spots where fins can cause damage. For vacationers, that’s reassuring: you’re enjoying something beautiful while also helping keep it beautiful.If you’re dreaming of a Moorea vacation where lagoon time is the highlight, this episode helps you understand what to look for—small groups, calm guiding, and gear that makes snorkeling easier. And when you’re ready to plan Moorea alongside the right islands, resorts, and transfers, connect with a Far and Away Adventures specialist at Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com.

In this episode we talk about the gentle magic of Breakas Beach Resort — where time slows down and nature takes center stage. Host Normand Schafer highlights the relaxed open-air dining, the sound of waves at your doorstep, and the friendly staff who make every guest feel like family. If your idea of vacation is barefoot luxury, this is it.

In this episode we talk about how Bountiful Tours and Transfers takes the stress out of getting around Vanuatu. Host Normand Schafer hears how travelers can sit back, relax, and enjoy waterfalls, local markets, cultural sites, and more — all with private drivers or group tours guided by warm and knowledgeable locals. Vacation the easy way, with support every step of the way.

In this episode we talk about how cultural travel can also be incredibly restorative. Host Normand Schafer speaks with Authentic Mala Tours about how their village tours create peaceful, meaningful vacation moments that stay with you long after the trip ends. Ideal for travelers who want more than sun and sand — and leave with a full heart.

In this episode we talk about why American Samoa is the perfect vacation destination for those who want to unwind while still having access to adventure. Host Normand Schafer speaks with the American Samoa Tourism Office about the resort options, guided tours, and quiet moments that make this destination both relaxing and enriching. Whether you’re looking for a secluded retreat or an action-packed itinerary, American Samoa delivers.

In this episode we talk about how Air Niugini provides comfort and reliability on your journey to vacation bliss. Host Normand Schafer speaks with the airline about popular vacation routes — from snorkeling in New Ireland to retreating in Wewak — and how the flight becomes part of the relaxing experience. Perfect for travelers planning their next remote island escape.

In this episode we talk about how Agnes Gateway Hotel delivers a relaxing, rustic getaway for travelers looking to slow down. Host Normand Schafer speaks with hotel staff about how guests spend their days enjoying the water, taking in local music and culture, and feeling part of the Munda rhythm. If your vacation goal is peace, connection, and nature, this is the place.

In this episode we talk about what makes the Cook Islands the ideal vacation blend of tranquility and authenticity. Host Normand Schafer speaks with Daniel from Cook Islands Tourism about destinations like Rarotonga, Aitutaki, and Atiu, where travelers can relax in paradise while still connecting deeply with local culture. Whether you’re unwinding on a beach or joining a family dinner, this episode captures the pure serenity of “Our Little Paradise.”

In this episode, we talk about how Tanna Island, Vanuatu, can deliver both a true vacation reset and unforgettable adventure—White Grass Ocean Resort as a beachfront base, plus Mount Yasur, blue holes, and reef experiences close at hand. For help planning the ideal balance of rest and exploration, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com and let our team design your trip.Normand Schafer speaks with Lindle from White Grass Ocean Resort about a style of vacation that’s hard to find: one where you can truly slow down, yet still have bucket-list experiences right nearby. Tanna is introduced as a remote South Pacific island with deep cultural richness and a sense of place that stays with you. The conversation highlights that visitors often come for the natural wonders, but leave equally moved by the island’s cultural depth and the feeling that travel here is different—less rushed, more real, and more connected to the rhythms of local life.Mount Yasur is the signature adventure, and the episode helps you understand how to fit it into a vacation without making the whole trip feel like a checklist. Lindle describes the volcano visit as a journey through changing landscapes: driving through highlands and jungle, emerging onto ash plains, then making a short walk to the rim. Normand shares what it’s like to see the volcano’s activity at night, a moment that can become the highlight of an entire holiday. The practical takeaway is that you can plan one “big” day and still keep the rest of your time intentionally relaxed.That relaxed rhythm continues on the water. White Grass Ocean Resort offers an on-site PADI Eco Dive Center (Volcano Island Divers) and reef access directly from the resort’s jetty, which simplifies the vacation experience—less time commuting, more time enjoying the ocean. Divers can explore reef walls, coral bommies, caves, and swim-throughs, while snorkelers can choose between reef-edge options for strong swimmers and blue holes within walking distance for an easier, aquarium-like experience. The episode explains how calm conditions and good light can bring out vivid colors, making even short swims feel spectacular.The Blue Cave excursion adds another layer of “vacation magic,” especially for travelers who love unique scenery and photography. Lindle describes mid-day light streaming into the cave and creating dramatic sunbeams and silhouettes. It’s a reminder that some of the best vacation memories aren’t complicated—they’re a simple swim at the right time of day, in a place that feels extraordinary.Sustainability and stewardship are presented as part of what makes the vacation feel good, not just fun. Lindle explains the resort’s eco approach through reef etiquette, conservation-minded guest briefings, and community involvement, such as World Ocean Day cleanups with local students. Training local staff through dive certifications is also discussed, reinforcing that the best vacations support long-term benefits for the community that hosts you.The episode closes with a helpful timing context. April through October is described as generally drier with cooler evenings, while emphasizing that Tanna remains a year-round destination with warm days and weather that often dries quickly. If you want a vacation that blends barefoot beachfront ease with one of the South Pacific’s most dramatic adventures, Tanna can deliver it. Start at https://farandawayadventures.com and connect with Far and Away Adventures to design a Tanna itinerary that balances rest, reef time, culture, and volcano—without stress.

In this episode we talk about how Vanuatu offers not just relaxation, but rejuvenation through nature and culture. Host Normand Schafer speaks with Adventures in Paradise about tours that bring peace — from gentle waterfall swims and sunset lookouts to quiet village visits. If you’re craving a peaceful escape that nourishes the spirit, this episode will guide you there.

In this episode we talk about how travelers can unwind and still experience culture with Cook Islands Tours. Host Normand Schafer and Timu discuss how the company blends relaxation with local immersion — whether through intimate dinners in family homes, peaceful turtle swims, or hands-on cultural workshops. It’s the perfect balance of leisure and authenticity in one of the world’s most beautiful island settings.

In this episode we talk about how a cruise with Captain Cook Cruises Fiji delivers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Normand Schafer chats with the team during SPTE to understand how these voyages strike the right balance between laid-back luxury and cultural adventure. Whether lounging on deck or diving into island excursions, you’ll find out why many guests call this the highlight of their Fiji trip.

In this episode, we talk about how to plan a vacation to the Cook Islands and Samoa that feels relaxing from day one—without the hidden planning stress that can come with island travel. Far and Away Adventures.com is your starting point for professional trip design, and you can explore more at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand interviews Robert from Island Hopper Vacations to break down what a destination management company (DMC) does, why having staff on the ground matters, and how travelers can get a more authentic experience while keeping the logistics simple.Robert explains that a DMC manages the full vacation experience in the destination: airport transfers, accommodations, tours, and the coordination that connects everything. That matters in the South Pacific because even a “simple” trip can include multiple bookings that have to line up—flights, transfers, activity start times, and inter-island transportation. We discuss the importance of being matched with the right accommodation, not just based on photos, but based on what will actually suit your travel style. A restful vacation often depends on this match: where you stay shapes your pace, your comfort, and how easy it is to enjoy the island without constant decision-making.A major highlight is the value of real support while you’re traveling. Robert shares that their team focuses on destinations where they have staff present, so travelers have on-island assistance and 24/7 access to help. That’s especially important when something changes—when a property is unavailable, when timing shifts, or when a traveler needs a fast solution. Instead of spending vacation time troubleshooting, travelers can rely on experienced local staff who already know the best alternatives and how to keep the itinerary intact.On the experience side, we talk about what makes a Cook Islands vacation unforgettable beyond the scenery. Robert strongly recommends experiencing the local dancing and island night shows, describing them as culturally meaningful and genuinely impressive. Normand adds a story from the remote island of Palmerston—arriving by sailboat during celebrations and being welcomed into communal gatherings. It’s a reminder that some of the best vacation moments aren’t scheduled activities; they’re cultural encounters that happen when you’re in the right place, with the right context, and with a plan that gives you room to participate.We also discuss Samoa and why professional planning can make the trip feel more like a vacation and less like a puzzle. Robert’s advice for first-time visitors is clear: speak with a travel professional who can set expectations correctly, fill in information gaps, and ensure you’re not relying on incomplete web listings.If you’re considering the Cook Islands, Samoa, or a combined South Pacific escape, this episode offers a practical takeaway: build your vacation around the experiences you care about, then let experts handle the connection points. When you’re ready, reach out to a Far and Away Adventures specialist to create a smooth, well-supported itinerary—so you can focus on culture, community, and the kind of relaxation that lasts long after you get home.

In this episode we talk about the peaceful rhythm of days at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort. Host Normand Schafer guides listeners through sunrise yoga, reef swims, massage therapies, and gentle storytelling sessions — perfect for travelers seeking deep relaxation without sacrificing engagement or purpose.

In this episode, we talk about how the Cook Islands can deliver the best kind of vacation—easy lagoon time, warm hospitality, and a resort choice that truly fits your travel style, from families to couples. For personalized trip planning help, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com.Normand Schafer speaks with a representative from the Rarotongan Beach Group of Resorts about why the Cook Islands are so good at meeting different vacation “moods” without making planning complicated. The conversation breaks down three distinct resort experiences that create three different vacation rhythms. For families and intergenerational groups, the Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium stands out because the Lagoonarium is described as a marine sanctuary right in front of the property—snorkel whenever you want, spot wildlife like turtles, and keep the day easy and flexible. It’s the kind of setup that makes a vacation feel effortless: the best experience is right there, not something you have to chase.For couples seeking a calmer, more private vacation, Sanctuary Rarotonga is described as adults only and designed as a romantic retreat on the same lagoon. The idea is simple—relaxation first, with the option to enjoy nearby facilities while still returning to a quieter space that feels like your own. And then there’s Aitutaki, presented as the “paradise” extension that many travelers consider essential. Normand emphasizes a key vacation-planning rule: don’t do Aitutaki as a day trip—stay overnight and give it time so it doesn’t feel rushed. The episode describes the Aitutaki lagoon as incredibly clear and highlights the Aitutaki Lagoon Private Island Resort as a standout stay that can elevate a vacation into a true bucket-list experience.They also talk about how easy it is to mix relaxation with a little exploring on Rarotonga. Transportation is described as simple, including buses labeled clockwise and anticlockwise that run the island loop road, making it easy to hop off for dinner or an activity without stress. Activities mentioned include hiking, trekking, and 4WD adventures, plus cultural experiences that can be done independently. Culture becomes part of the vacation in a natural way—visiting villages, attending church services (especially on Sundays), and experiencing the welcoming spirit that makes visitors feel like they belong.Timing guidance is practical and reassuring: the Cook Islands are presented as a year-round destination, with April through November described as prime time. If you want help choosing the right resort style and building a vacation that feels relaxed, well-paced, and memorable—start at https://farandawayadventures.com and let Far and Away Adventures plan your Cook Islands getaway.

In this episode we talk about how to start your Fiji vacation with serenity—and excitement. Normand Schafer explores how Island Hoppers makes getting to your resort an experience in itself, with short scenic hops that skip the chaos of ferry schedules. It’s relaxation and thrill all in one takeoff.

In this episode we talk about how InterContinental Fiji crafts a vacation experience built around wellness and reconnection. Normand Schafer reflects on yoga by the sea, spa rituals, beachfront lounging, and the calming ambiance of Natadola Bay. It’s the kind of vacation that stays with you long after you return home.

In this episode we talk about how Hilton Fiji creates a luxurious yet laid-back atmosphere for vacationers seeking rest and rejuvenation. Normand Schafer shares what it’s like to spend a few days unwinding by the ocean, indulging in spa treatments, and sipping cocktails on the deck. If pure comfort is your idea of paradise, this one’s for you.