Zero Travel Regrets: Norm's Armchair Travel Journeys
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© Normand Schafer
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Welcome to 'Zero Travel Regrets: Norm's Armchair Travel Journeys', your ultimate guide to immersive travel experiences without leaving the comfort of your home. Join Norm, a seasoned traveler and captivating storyteller, as he takes you on a virtual journey to the world's most fascinating destinations. Each episode, Norm shares his vivid travel memories, expert tips, and behind-the-scenes stories, transporting you from your armchair to Tahiti's top islands, the best beaches of the Cook Islands, and beyond.
60 Episodes
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In this episode we talk about exploring Vanuatu’s Efate Island — without ever leaving your seat. Host Normand Schafer takes listeners on a virtual journey with Bountiful Tours and Transfers, describing lush forests, quiet villages, and turquoise swimming holes with the help of stories from local guides. Let your imagination wander on this relaxed and rewarding audio tour.
In this episode we talk with Authentic Mala Tours to explore the sounds, scents, and spirit of Mele Village — all from the comfort of home. Host Normand Schafer guides listeners through a vivid, imagined visit full of drumming, laughter, and wisdom passed down through generations. If you’ve ever longed to travel with purpose, this is your invitation to dream.
In this episode we talk about the wonders of American Samoa from the comfort of your home. Host Normand Schafer guides listeners through the islands’ natural beauty, culture, and history, all painted through vivid descriptions and rich storytelling. Whether you’re dreaming of a future trip or simply curious, this episode offers a window into a paradise that feels as close as your favorite chair.
In this episode we talk with Air Niugini about the beauty of Papua New Guinea’s skies and landscapes — all imagined from the comfort of your home. Host Normand Schafer guides listeners on a dreamscape of remote villages, jungle airstrips, and dramatic mountain vistas as seen from the plane window. If you’re curious about what lies beyond your current map, this episode will take you there in spirit.
In this episode we talk about the sensory beauty of the Solomon Islands — as seen from the peaceful dock of the Agnes Gateway Hotel. Host Normand Schafer recreates a daydream journey filled with boat trips, village visits, sunset views, and the unique calm that only a place like Munda can provide. For travelers dreaming of the Pacific, this is armchair travel at its best.
In this episode we talk about the Cook Islands through the stories of Cook Islands Tourism representative Daniel. Host Normand Schafer takes listeners on a vivid journey through Rarotonga, Aitutaki, and the remote Northern Islands. Hear about pearl diving, island hospitality, and progressive dinners that turn strangers into family. Even from your armchair, you’ll feel the rhythm, warmth, and wonder of the South Pacific.
In this episode we talk about Norman’s unforgettable visit to White Grass Ocean Resort — from watching lava leap into the night sky to exploring underwater caves. It’s a story of awe, family memories, and respect for nature. This episode captures the thrill of adventure from the comfort of your chair.
In this episode we talk with Adventures in Paradise about the sights and sensations of Vanuatu — all imagined from your favorite chair. Host Normand Schafer paints vivid scenes of jungle trails, tribal drums, and lagoon dips, offering listeners a sensory journey that proves you don’t need a plane ticket to feel the magic of travel.
In this episode we talk about the beauty and culture of the Cook Islands from the comfort of home. Host Normand Schafer invites listeners to imagine snorkeling with turtles, sharing a meal in a local home, and joining a reef walk — all guided by the insights of Cook Islands Tours founder Timu. Even without boarding a plane, you’ll feel the island warmth and the joy of genuine human connection.
In this episode we talk with Captain Cook Cruises Fiji about their unique island-hopping experiences — no travel required. Host Normand Schafer recreates the journey with vivid descriptions and first-hand stories shared at SPTE, guiding listeners on an armchair cruise across Fiji’s remote archipelago. Perfect for those dreaming of travel or planning their next escape.
In this episode we talk about the beauty and culture of Rarotonga and Samoa from the comfort of your favorite chair. Host Normand Schafer is joined by Robert of Island Hopper Vacations, who paints a vivid picture of island life, cultural celebrations, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Even if you’re not packing your bags just yet, this episode will transport you straight into the heart of the South Pacific.
In this episode we talk about the emotional and sensory beauty of this world-famous Fijian retreat. Normand Schafer paints an evocative picture of quiet mornings, coral garden swims, and Fijian storytelling around the fire. It’s an island fantasy — with a conservationist’s soul.
In this episode we talk about the beauty of Rarotonga through stories from The Rarotongan Beach Group of Resorts. Host Normand Schafer takes listeners on a vivid journey — from the family-friendly Lagoonarium to the romantic Sanctuary Rarotonga and the dreamlike overwater villas on Aitutaki Lagoon. Even if you’re not traveling yet, this immersive conversation brings the Cook Islands to life and may just inspire your next great escape.
In this episode we talk about the dreamlike sensation of flying low over coral reefs and watching the sea change color beneath you. Host Normand Schafer invites you into an armchair flight through Fiji’s skies — reliving his Island Hoppers experience through vivid storytelling and aerial wonder.
In this episode we talk about what it feels like to wake up to the sound of the Coral Coast. Host Normand Schafer offers an immersive storytelling journey through a day at InterContinental Fiji, from sunrise over Natadola Bay to candlelit dinner beneath the stars. It’s travel inspiration at its most vivid.
In this episode we talk about an idealized island day at Hilton Fiji. Host Normand Schafer paints an audio portrait of morning beach walks, gourmet breakfast, a lazy poolside afternoon, and sunset drinks at a beachfront bar. It’s luxury you can hear — and inspiration for your next real-world getaway.
In this episode we talk about those first few hours in Fiji — stepping off a plane and into a place where time slows down. Host Normand Schafer shares stories of past arrivals at Hexagon Group’s Tokatoka Resort, inviting listeners into an experience of palm-lined paths, gentle greetings, and peaceful rest. Even from the comfort of home, you’ll feel the Fijian welcome.
In this episode we talk about roaring engines, thick jungle, and the sound of laughter echoing through sugarcane fields. Host Normand Schafer transports listeners to the seat of a quad bike on one of Go Dirty Tours’ epic adventures. Through storytelling and reflection, you'll explore Fiji’s untamed beauty — without ever leaving your seat.
In this episode we talk about the rich mythology and soothing atmosphere of First Landing Resort. Normand Schafer takes listeners on a story-filled journey to the site where Fijians first arrived, inviting the imagination to wander through beachfront gardens, cultural fire shows, and gentle ocean waves — no boarding pass required.
In this episode we talk about travel that doesn’t require a plane ticket to feel real. Haida watcher and guide Gidinjad shares a 35-year journey serving ancestral villages with Norman Shaffer—telling stories of spirits, poles, and healing oceans. If you want to truly listen to the land, visit https://farandawayadventures.com.Gidinjad shares raw reflections: of a child drumming ancestral songs, of forest nights filled with unseen voices, of guests overwhelmed by what grounds them. This isn’t just travel—it’s remembering. And listening. And honoring.Whether you plan to visit later, or simply want to immerse your heart in ancestral presence now, this episode brings you there. Visit https://farandawayadventures.com to explore more.More information on Haida cultural sites: Haida cultural sites – Gwaii HaanasNational Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and HaidaHeritage Site
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