Just Travel

In this episode, we talk about the Austral Islands with veteran archaeologist Mark Eddowes, including what travelers should understand about sacred sites, cultural etiquette, and what makes this part of French Polynesia feel so different from the more touristed islands. Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com are included early because trips to remote archipelagos often require expert planning—especially when the goal is to visit thoughtfully and not just “tick boxes.” Normand Schafer interviews Mark onboard Aranui 5 as the ship heads toward Rapa, and the conversation delivers both fascinating history and practical guidance you can actually use.Mark shares his background first: growing up in New Zealand, drawn to Māori history, then specializing in Polynesian marae temples at university. A collaborative research project brought him to Tahiti’s Papenoo Valley, where archaeology was needed to document sites in a valley affected by proposed modern development. That experience led to long-term work in French Polynesia, including extensive research in the Austral Islands. The conversation then dives into why the Australs are culturally distinctive. Mark explains that the Austral Islands and the Cook Islands were historically one unified cultural and language zone, later divided into different territories in the 19th century. He describes work in Rimatara, Tubuai, and Raivavae, including surveys of marae sites, excavations of early settlements, and research into the tiki traditions of Raivavae—where tiki figures represent deified female ancestors, a striking contrast to many other islands. He also discusses how different islands show different settlement influences, including ties to the Marquesas versus the Society Islands. Even if you’re not an archaeology enthusiast, this section gives you a richer sense of why “Polynesia” is not one uniform story.What makes this episode especially useful is Mark’s visitor advice. He explains the Polynesian concept of taboo—sacred, set aside, not to be disturbed—and why marae remain highly respected even in Christian communities today. His guidance is straightforward: take photos, but don’t climb on sites, don’t touch or rearrange stones, and never take anything. He also notes that certain places, like royal cemeteries, should be observed from outside only. If you want to be welcomed rather than tolerated, this is the kind of etiquette that matters.Mark also talks about modern cultural norms, especially in the Australs, which he describes as conservative and strongly Protestant. He advises modest dress away from the beach—shorts for men, a pareo or wrap for women, and no topless sunbathing—because visitors can unintentionally create discomfort in small communities where church life is central. Normand adds context: Tahiti is more used to tourism and French influence, but when you’re in the outer islands, reciprocating respect is part of responsible travel.Beyond etiquette, Mark paints a vivid picture of daily life: small populations, a subtropical climate, and an economy still rooted in plantations and fishing, supported by strong extended-family structures. He also highlights living arts that keep culture visible—pandanus weaving (mats, hats, fans) and a carving renaissance among young men reviving historic motifs once suppressed by missionary influence. The episode closes with remarkable finds from Mark’s career, including a red volcanic tuff tiki tied to sacred symbolism, an ancestor figure reused in a house alignment that hints at changing beliefs during early conversion eras, and turtle petroglyphs revealed only when a restored stone caught the sunset at the right angle. If you’re considering the Australs and want the trip to feel meaningful, Far and Away Adventures can help you plan an itinerary that blends remote beauty with real cultural understanding.

In this episode, we talk about Guadalcanal Province in the Solomon Islands in a practical, traveler-friendly way—what makes it unique, what visitors can do, and how to think about building a first itinerary. Far and Away Adventures.com is where you can start planning with expert help, and you can explore ideas at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand introduces Guadalcanal as a historically and culturally significant region and speaks with a guest connected to Guadalcanal tourism efforts about experiences that go far beyond a quick pass through the capital.We start with the “why” behind Guadalcanal: it’s described as one of the larger islands in the Solomons and home to Honiara, the capital city. But what truly differentiates Guadalcanal is cultural diversity within one island. The guest explains that multiple languages are spoken across Guadalcanal and that traditions vary by region—meaning travelers can notice different ways of living, speaking, and practicing culture as they move around. That diversity becomes a travel advantage: you can experience meaningful cultural contrast without needing a complicated multi-island plan.One of the best ways to connect with that diversity is through village visits. The guest highlights villages that are open to visitors, where travelers can experience traditional crafts and food preparation and see how people live day to day. Sustainability is specifically mentioned as part of village life—how food is grown and how communities maintain their routines. For travelers who want authentic experiences, this is a clear takeaway: don’t only chase “sites.” Make time for people, practices, and the living culture of the island.Nature is another essential part of a Guadalcanal plan. Tenaru Waterfall is highlighted as a marquee attraction—described as the biggest waterfall in the Solomon Islands—and it’s recommended as a must-see. The conversation also points to coastal and ocean activities like beaches for swimming and relaxing, as well as snorkeling, diving, and fishing, depending on interest and conditions. Inland, the guest mentions mountain adventures that can include hiking and caves, including a cave site known for large numbers of bats, with scenic waterfall surroundings nearby. The big picture is that Guadalcanal offers both gentle nature experiences and more adventurous day trips, and you can choose based on your comfort and travel style.Of course, Guadalcanal is also deeply tied to WWII history. The guest describes the island as a major battleground and notes that travelers can visit memorials and historic locations around Honiara and beyond. The conversation references the Mount Austen area, memorial locations near central Honiara, and the Henderson area near the airport, as well as additional places outside the city where larger war relics can still be seen. For many travelers, these visits provide powerful context and a deeper understanding of the Pacific story.If you’re deciding whether Guadalcanal fits your travel style, this episode offers a simple lens: culture (villages, crafts, food), nature (Tenaru Waterfall and inland scenery), and history (memorials and WWII sites). When you’re ready to turn that into a smooth itinerary, connect with a Far and Away Adventures specialist to build a plan that matches your pace and priorities.

In this episode, we talk about Aranui 5 shore excursions with Lehi, including what’s included at every port, what optional experiences are available, and what the island days actually feel like in real time. Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com are the best places to start if you want help choosing a sailing and understanding the activity pace before you book. Normand Schafer records this conversation onboard, and it’s ideal for travelers who want the truth behind the brochure: the warmth, the logistics, the surprises, and the little decisions that shape whether your day ashore feels effortless or overwhelming.Lehi explains why Aranui is different: it’s a deluxe freighter cruise, and the experience is built around an authentic connection with islands rather than cruise-terminal convenience. One of the biggest practical points he shares is that excursions are included at every port. That matters because in remote places, it’s not always easy to create a great day on your own—transportation is limited, distances can be significant, and the best cultural moments often happen when local hosts and ship teams coordinate together. On Aranui, the baseline experience is already planned and meaningful, and then travelers can choose optional add-ons where it makes sense.The episode brings you into a classic day in the Marquesas, starting with Nuku Hiva. Lehi describes a full-day “safari” style outing using local jeeps and four-wheel drives, visiting important stops such as a cathedral and archaeological sites, and then sharing lunch ashore where hosts welcome guests with singing and dance. Normand highlights a detail many travelers love: the ship can reposition to the other side of the island while guests are exploring, turning the day into a true island crossing rather than a simple “out and back” tour. That kind of logistics is exactly what makes the experience feel like you’re traveling through a living place instead of sampling it from the edges.You’ll also hear candid talk about the human side of excursions. Lehi explains how guests sometimes rush to get outside in the heat, worry when vehicles aren’t immediately visible, and get overwhelmed if they don’t follow the flow. Hearing this from a guide reframes it: these are small islands, not big-city tour depots, and the best approach is to stay cool, stay patient, and trust the process. It’s a simple mindset shift that can instantly improve the quality of your trip—especially if you’re the kind of traveler who usually wants to be “in control” of every minute.Food comes up too, in a way that’s helpful without becoming complicated. Meals ashore can be cooked differently than shipboard meals, and sometimes the preparation method itself is part of the cultural experience. At the same time, Lehi explains that special diets can be supported by preparing meals onboard and bringing them ashore, which means travelers don’t have to choose between participation and health needs.Optional excursions show up mainly in lagoon-focused areas, with examples like Rangiroa experiences such as dolphin observation and glass-bottom boat outings. Bora Bora also includes optional aquatic options, and the trip can end on a high note with a motu picnic that many travelers remember as a celebratory highlight. For hikers, the Fatu Hiva crossing—15 km from Omoa to Hanavave—remains legendary, with alternatives (four-wheel drive or sailing around) so travelers can choose their adventure level without missing the destination. If you’re deciding whether Aranui 5 matches your style, Far and Away Adventures can help you plan the right sailing and set realistic expectations so you enjoy every island day.

In this episode, we talk about the Solomon Islands in a practical, first-timer-friendly way—what travelers come for, what surprises them, and what experiences are worth building a trip around. Far and Away Adventures.com is where you can start planning with expert help, and you can explore ideas at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand interviews Sunila from Guadalcanal Travel Solomons about touring Guadalcanal and nearby islands with a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventure.We begin with the destination’s global reputation: World War II history. Sunila explains that Guadalcanal touring is a major draw and describes the kinds of battlefield areas, relics, and historic points of interest that travelers often seek out around Honiara. From there, we talk about how a trip can include more than history by incorporating cultural performances and ceremonial experiences that help visitors understand the living traditions of the islands today.Sunila also shares cultural details that highlight how diverse the Solomons are across provinces—such as traditional attire, shell money, and how customs and practices vary from one area to another. It’s a reminder that the Solomon Islands aren’t a single “one-note” destination; they’re a collection of communities with distinct identities.Then we shift into nature and movement. If you want to add a refreshing outdoor day, Sunila recommends waterfall trekking and points to Tenaru Falls as a bucket-list trek near Honiara. We also discuss the best time of year to explore for generally better weather, and what the rainy season can mean for travelers who prefer drier days.To wrap it up, Sunila offers a “lesser-known” experience that can become the highlight of a trip: a full-day volcanic tour on Savo Island, reached by boat from Honiara—with the possibility of dolphin encounters along the way. If you’re curious about the Solomon Islands and want a clear starting point, this episode gives you the building blocks. When you’re ready to turn curiosity into a real itinerary, connect with a Far and Away Adventures specialist for planning support.

In this episode, we talk about the new Aranoa ship planned for French Polynesia and why freighter cruising can be one of the most eye-opening ways to explore remote islands. Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com are essential resources if you want an expert to help you decide whether a small ship, a freighter cruise, or a more traditional island itinerary fits your travel style and comfort level.Normand Schafer welcomes Leo Colin from Aranui Cruises to discuss what’s behind the company’s next big step: operating two sister ships in French Polynesia, with Aranui 5 continuing its legacy and Aranoa focusing heavily on the Austral Islands. The conversation keeps things refreshingly practical. Instead of glossy marketing language, Leo talks about what it actually takes to serve remote islands and travelers at the same time—how freight works, how the sea behaves in different regions, and why ships sometimes have to adjust plans for safety and comfort.A major theme is authenticity. In many destinations, travelers are insulated from the systems that make daily life possible. Here, the system is part of the experience. Leo explains why passengers are fascinated by cargo operations: seeing what gets carried, how it’s handled, and how important these deliveries are for island communities. It reframes “cruising” into something more meaningful—especially in places where supplies aren’t a quick truck ride away. We hear a story about a diesel delivery and the urgency of keeping an island’s power generation supported, which highlights the stakes behind what might look like routine ship work.Leo also shares what’s planned to change with Aranoa. He describes a ship that is intended to be smaller than Aranui 5, with a capacity shaped by the realities of the Australs. He talks about stabilizers to reduce rolling in southern swells—an important detail for travelers who are nervous about motion. He also explains dynamic positioning, a system that can hold a ship in place without anchoring, potentially reducing seabed impact in sensitive areas. These are the kinds of details that help travelers understand not just where a ship goes, but how it behaves once it arrives.We round out the conversation with the human side of shipbuilding: reviewing drawings, validating systems, and catching small issues early so the crew isn’t forced to improvise fixes later. If you’ve ever wondered how a ship becomes “real” before it ever carries a passenger, this episode gives a rare peek behind the curtain. And if you’re dreaming about the Australs or the next era of French Polynesia small-ship travel, it’s a great way to ground that dream in the realities that make it possible. When you’re ready to plan and book, Far and Away Adventures can help you choose the right sailing and shape the whole journey for maximum ease and impact.

In this episode, we talk about the part of Aranui travel that feels most “real”: the freight and cargo operations happening alongside the passenger experience—and how Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com can help you plan a voyage that embraces this authenticity without stress. Start here:https://farandawayadventures.comNormand sits with Charles, a second captain, to explore what makes this voyage different from a typical cruise: it’s not a floating resort that occasionally stops at islands. It’s a working ship that connects remote communities, and you get a front-row seat.Charles shares that he came to Aranui after years on other cruise ships around the world. He wanted a change—something closer to home and something different—and chose French Polynesia specifically because he didn’t know it well. That curiosity is part of what makes the conversation land: he isn’t selling a fantasy. He’s describing the daily reality of a ship that has to be both safe for passengers and effective for cargo. Normand notes the “family atmosphere” onboard, and Charles confirms that the crew functions like a close team—barmen, seamen, engineers—everyone connected. That matters because on a working route, teamwork isn’t just culture; it’s how you get freight delivered in difficult conditions.The most compelling detail is how the ship delivers cargo when there’s no convenient pier. Charles explains that sometimes deliveries happen into bays or valleys: the ship anchors, cranes lift freight, and barges carry goods to shore. If you’ve ever watched swell roll through a calm-looking harbor, you can imagine how quickly things get complex when heavy cargo is moving between platforms. Normand shares a vivid memory of seeing a car loaded onto a barge in moving swell, with the timing and precision required to get wheels down while everything rises and falls. It’s a moment many guests remember because it’s pure “just travel”: you’re witnessing how island life is supplied, not just snapping photos.Charles also distinguishes Aranui from a traditional cargo ship. Yes, you can travel on cargo ships, but the onboard experience is different—cabins, dining, and social spaces aren’t designed around passenger comfort in the same way. Here, Charles agrees, guests can “live the cargo experience” while still enjoying the hospitality and comfort that make it vacation-worthy. That blend is the secret sauce: authenticity without giving up comfort.Another “just travel” highlight is the cargo that surprises you. Charles says they sometimes transport large animals—horses, cows, dogs—using special ventilated containers placed on deck, with crew members feeding and monitoring them through the voyage. Then comes the unforgettable twist: a shipment of sheep where one gave birth onboard, turning a planned delivery of seven into a delivery of eight. It’s funny, sure, but it’s also a reminder that this isn’t a staged experience; it’s real logistics serving real communities.The conversation also touches on what comes back from the islands. Charles mentions limited freight on the return, but fruit exports from the Marquesas—lemons and very large citrus (pamplemousse)—and Normand connects that to broader distribution across the region, including mentions of Rangiroa, Bora Bora, and onward shipping via smaller vessels. Charles notes refrigerated containers for perishables. This context transforms how you experience the itinerary: the ship isn’t only moving people; it’s moving supplies and exports that keep island economies functioning.If you want travel that feels alive—where the ship’s operations are part of the story, not hidden behind a curtain—Episode 2 delivers that feeling. And if you want the experience planned well, with the right sailing dates and trip flow so you can enjoy the voyage instead of worrying about details, begin with Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com.

In this episode, we talk about the kind of travel experience that doesn’t feel manufactured: a deluxe freighter voyage where culture, community, and real life shape every day. If you want help planning an Aranui 5 or Aranoa trip that fits your travel style and flows smoothly, visit https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand sits down with Spencer Hata Utuya, an onboard guide on Aranui 5, to explore what “behind the scenes” really means when you’re traveling to remote islands and working with local communities.Spencer’s path into guiding starts with a twist—he wasn’t trained in hospitality. He studied business management and marketing and initially aimed for leadership roles on land, but without experience, those opportunities didn’t open. Instead, he found a guide position on board the ship and began in September 2022. By November 2025, he had years of sailings behind him, and he speaks candidly about what it took to become confident in a job that requires both knowledge and emotional steadiness.A central theme of the episode is preparation as a daily practice. Spencer describes discovering that some travelers arrived with deep knowledge of French Polynesia—sometimes more than he had at first—and how that realization motivated him to study hard. He talks about reading and reviewing his notes every evening, not because he doubts himself, but because he wants to show up fully for guests who traveled far to be there. It’s also part of how he stays ready when guide assignments change on short notice due to sickness, accidents, or personal matters within the team. The guests may never notice the switch, but the quality stays high because the guides take preparation seriously.Then the conversation shifts to the real heart of “just travel”: the day doesn’t always go the way the program says it will. Spencer explains that the team begins preparing programs for the next voyage while still on the current voyage, often in the final days. They lay out the structure—excursions and connections—but keep room for adjustments because changes can come from local organizations. The important part is the attitude: plans are “in pencil,” not in stone, because remote-island travel is a collaboration with communities and realities that can change quickly.Two stories capture this perfectly. On a Marquesas sailing, a dance performance was expected, listed, and then didn’t happen because something arose in the performers’ family. Spencer explains that guides must manage logistics and guest mood, delivering the truth with respect while helping guests still feel the day is rich and worthwhile. On an Australs sailing, a bus tour experienced a chain of disruptions: a vehicle ran out of gas, a replacement required keys that were forgotten at home, and guests waited. In that moment, the guide becomes the experience—socializing, walking, pointing out the landscape, and turning dead time into a story the guests will remember.Spencer also describes how shore experiences are built through local partnerships and budgets handled at higher levels. Different associations may be chosen based on cost and availability, and religious calendars can influence which groups can work certain days. These are the small realities that make “just travel” feel human: it isn’t a theme park, it’s a set of relationships across islands where people have their own schedules, obligations, and events.The episode ends with refreshingly practical first-timer advice: pack good shoes for hikes, water shoes for coral areas, repellent, and a raincoat because the weather can change. If you want travel that feels alive—where the best moments sometimes happen because something unexpected occurred and a great guide turned it into a connection—this Aranui 5 behind-the-scenes conversation delivers. When you’re ready to plan your own voyage with expert support, connect with Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com.

In this episode, we talk about Niu Beach Hotel in Moorea and why it appeals to travelers who want simplicity, calm, and a strong connection to place. Sylvia Martino shares how this boutique hotel was designed to feel more like home than a resort, offering modern bungalows, lagoon access, and freedom from rigid schedules.We explore what it means to travel without overplanning, how kitchens and quiet surroundings create a more natural rhythm, and why the west coast of Moorea is ideal for slowing down. This episode is for travelers who value experience over excess and prefer peaceful settings over busy resorts.

In this episode, we talk about a lagoon day in Moorea that captures why people dream about French Polynesia: clear water, colorful coral, and guided snorkeling that feels both adventurous and approachable. If you’re thinking about turning “someday” into a real itinerary, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com for help planning the islands, resorts, and experiences that fit your travel style. This episode is a simple, story-driven look at a Moorea adventure that doesn’t need hype—the setting does the work.Normand opens with the scene: an electric-blue lagoon framed by emerald mountains, with water sports happening right offshore. He’s interviewing Nico from Moorea Water Games at the Sofitel nautical center, and the conversation quickly becomes about what makes a snorkeling experience feel truly special. Nico explains that he’s been running the nautical center for years, and that the business started in a familiar way—rentals like kayaks and paddleboards—before shifting into guided snorkeling once he realized how beautiful and healthy the underwater world was in this part of the lagoon.Instead of creating a big, crowded outing, Nico leaned into something different: small-boat, small-group tours that explore multiple sites. That decision shapes the entire experience. Normand notes how much calmer it feels when you’re not surrounded by a large group, and how the guide can stay present with guests—especially those who are less confident in the water. When you travel, it’s often the small choices like this—group size, pacing, and guide attention—that determine whether an activity feels stressful or unforgettable.The most distinctive part of the tour is the sea scooter, which Nico describes as an “e-bike in the water.” It allows people to move without constantly kicking fins, making it easier for beginners, nervous swimmers, and even non-swimmers (with the right guidance and equipment) to enjoy the reef. Full-face mask options add another layer of comfort, helping guests relax and look around instead of focusing on breathing technique. The result is a snorkeling style that feels more like gliding than working—more observation, less effort.Of course, the lagoon life is the headline. The episode mentions friendly stingrays and abundant reef fish, and Nico talks about a turtle cleaning station—his “turtle spa”—where turtles may pause while fish clean their shells. They also touch on how different sites can feel: shallow, warm water with less current near the island, and cooler water near deeper areas and a drop-off. That contrast helps explain why a multi-site tour keeps things interesting; you’re not just repeating the same view.The conversation also brings in responsible travel in a natural, practical way. Nico explains that the area is described as a marine reserve with rules like no anchoring and limits on the number of boats and activities. Before each departure, they give a safety briefing that also covers reef etiquette: don’t step on coral, follow the guide, and be mindful of shallow zones where fins can cause damage. Normand reinforces why that matters—coral grows slowly, and recovery takes time.If you’re craving a “just travel” episode that’s pure destination energy—with a real behind-the-scenes look at how a great lagoon experience is run—this one delivers. And when you’re ready to connect Moorea with the right flights, transfers, resort stay, and island pacing, let a Far and Away Adventures specialist help you plan it at Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com.

In this episode we talk about the magic of Breakas Beach Resort — where island sophistication meets slow-living bliss. Host Normand Schafer chats with the team about the resort’s signature features: no phones in the rooms, outdoor garden showers, and warm ni-Vanuatu hospitality. It’s a place to unplug and rediscover joy in the simple.

In this episode we talk about how Bountiful Tours and Transfers creates customizable experiences for travelers of all kinds. Host Normand Schafer learns how this locally owned company caters to individuals, couples, and groups with a mix of nature, culture, and comfort — whether you’re in port for the day or planning a full vacation. Travel on your terms, with locals who care.

In this episode we talk about discovering Vanuatu through one of its most welcoming communities — Mele Village. Host Normand Schafer chats with Authentic Mala Tours about how they offer personal, locally led cultural tours where visitors become guests, not just spectators. From handmade crafts to sacred customs, this is Vanuatu at its most genuine.

In this episode we talk about American Samoa, one of the most unique and culturally rich islands in the Pacific. Host Normand Schafer speaks with the American Samoa Tourism Office about the warm hospitality, stunning landscapes, and vibrant traditions that make this destination a must-visit. Whether you’re relaxing on pristine beaches or exploring lush rainforests, this episode will inspire your next trip.

In this episode we talk about how flying with Air Niugini is part of the Papua New Guinea experience itself. Host Normand Schafer learns how the airline offers more than just transport — it delivers hospitality infused with PNG’s diverse culture. Hear how local cuisine, cabin crew attire, and onboard language choices introduce travelers to the nation’s proud identity before they even touch down.

In this episode we talk about what makes Agnes Gateway Hotel special — from its historic significance in Munda to its modern-day role in Solomon Islands tourism. Host Normand Schafer speaks with the team about the warmth of Solomon Islander hospitality, the local culinary experience, and how the hotel remains a community hub for travelers and locals alike.

In this episode we talk about the soul of the Cook Islands — not just its scenery, but its people. Host Normand Schafer interviews Daniel from Cook Islands Tourism, who shares how travelers can truly “Love Our Little Paradise.” Learn about meaningful experiences like home-hosted Progressive Dinners, meeting island families, and visiting the eco-paradise of Atiu. This episode reminds us that travel isn’t about checking off destinations — it’s about connection.

In this episode, we talk about what makes Tanna Island in Vanuatu a pure bucket-list destination and how White Grass Ocean Resort puts you close to the island’s biggest highlights—culture, reef, and volcano. If you want help turning the dream into a smooth itinerary, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com and let our team map the details around your travel style.Normand Schafer sits down with Lindle from White Grass Ocean Resort for a conversation that’s all about travel moments you don’t forget: dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear water, and experiences that feel genuinely rooted in place. Tanna is described as a remote South Pacific island with extraordinary cultural depth—villages and traditions that have remained relatively unchanged for centuries—making it especially compelling for travelers who value learning, listening, and seeing the world beyond the typical resort bubble. At the same time, White Grass offers the kind of comfortable, beachfront home base that helps you reset between adventures.The episode’s headline topic is Mount Yasur, an active volcano that many travelers dream about for years. Lindle explains why the approach is part of the thrill: a drive that moves through jungle highlands and opens into ash plains, followed by a short ascent on foot. Normand shares the powerful memory of being on the rim as the volcano’s energy lights up the night. It’s the kind of experience that can define an entire trip, and the conversation helps you understand how it fits alongside easiergoing beach days.Then the focus shifts to the ocean. White Grass has an on-site PADI Eco Dive Center called Volcano Island Divers, and the setup makes the reef feel close and accessible. A jetty extends out to the outer reef with an immediate drop-off into clear water, leading to walls, coral bommies, caves, and swim-throughs. For snorkelers, the nearby blue holes are highlighted as a favorite, especially for families and anyone who wants that aquarium-like feeling without a long boat ride. They discuss how tides and surges can influence the experience and why choosing the right timing—often around calm conditions with the sun overhead—can make colors pop in a way that feels almost unreal.One of the standout side adventures is the Blue Cave excursion. Lindle describes how mid-day light can stream down through an opening and create cathedral-like illumination in the water, setting up striking photos and memorable swims. The conversation includes practical notes about what’s required for the experience, like being comfortable swimming, and why repeat visits at different times can show changing colors and moods.Sustainability and respect for the environment come through as more than a talking point. Lindle explains how eco recognition and reef stewardship show up in diver briefings, coral-safe behavior, and community projects such as World Ocean Day cleanups with local students. There’s also a discussion of building local skills through dive training for staff, reinforcing the idea that tourism works best when it supports long-term benefits for the community.Seasonality comes up in a helpful, grounded way: April through October is described as generally drier with cooler evenings, while emphasizing that Tanna is still a year-round destination with warm days and weather that rarely stops the fun for long. If you want the “just travel” version of the South Pacific—simple, breathtaking, and unforgettable—start with a plan that fits you. Visit https://farandawayadventures.com and let Far and Away Adventures help you build the right Tanna itinerary.

In this episode we talk about why Vanuatu is more than just a cruise stop — it’s a destination worth dedicating time to. Host Normand Schafer interviews Adventures in Paradise Vanuatu about the island’s unique blend of nature, culture, and raw beauty. Learn about tour options that take you beyond Port Vila and into the heart of Ni-Vanuatu traditions and island life.

In this episode we talk about authentic travel through the lens of Cook Islands Tours. Host Normand Schafer explores how the company connects visitors directly with local life — whether it’s enjoying a meal inside a family home or joining a small-group cultural experience. Timu shares how these tours move beyond sightseeing to offer something deeper: a genuine connection to the people who make Rarotonga so special.

In this episode we talk about why Captain Cook Cruises Fiji stands out as one of the most unique and enriching ways to travel in the South Pacific. Host Normand Schafer interviews the team at SPTE to break down cruise routes, cultural programming, sustainability practices, and why this isn’t your typical cruise line. If you love slow travel with depth, this episode is your ticket aboard.