Travel the World

In this episode, we talk about the Austral Islands with archaeologist Mark Eddowes, focusing on what sacred sites, taboo, and community life can teach any traveler about moving through the world respectfully. Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com are included early because remote destinations reward thoughtful planning—especially when the goal is to experience culture deeply without accidentally offending the people who live there. Normand Schafer interviews Mark onboard Aranui 5 while sailing in French Polynesia’s Australs, and the conversation goes far beyond trivia: it offers a framework for understanding how living communities relate to ancient places, and why “looking” is often welcome while “touching” is not.Mark begins with his personal origin story as an archaeologist—growing up in New Zealand with strong interest in Māori history, studying Polynesian marae temples, and arriving in Tahiti through a major research collaboration in the Papenoo Valley. He describes archaeology as a practice that often sits at the intersection of preservation and modern change, which is a useful perspective for world travelers.The episode then turns to the Australs as a case study in cultural depth. Mark explains that the Austral Islands and the Cook Islands were historically one cultural and language zone, later divided into different territories in the 19th century. He describes fieldwork in Rimatara and Tubuai and highlights Raivavae’s remarkable tiki tradition, where figures represent deified female ancestors. He also discusses how settlement influences appear to differ across islands, with some ties traced to Marquesas origins and others to Society Islands origins. Mark then paints a vivid picture of what travelers experience in the Australs today: small populations, natural landscapes with minimal modern development, a fresher subtropical climate, and daily life shaped by plantations and fishing. He emphasizes the strength of extended-family networks and community solidarity—structures that create social safety and a sense of belonging. He also highlights living arts that travelers can see and appreciate, including pandanus weaving and the revival of fine wood carving. These crafts matter because they are cultural continuity in action—skills passed through generations, sometimes adapted under missionary influence, and now being reclaimed with pride.The heart of the episode is Mark’s guidance on respectful behavior. He explains the Polynesian concept of taboo—sacred and set aside—and why marae sites are still treated as powerful places even in Christian communities today. His advice is direct: photograph, observe, and learn, but don’t climb on sites, don’t touch or rearrange stones, and never remove anything. He adds that certain places, such as royal cemeteries, should be observed from outside only, respecting boundaries that may not be obvious to visitors. He also notes that the Australs are conservative and strongly Protestant, and he encourages modest dress away from beaches—simple choices that demonstrate respect in close-knit communities. Mark closes with stories of discoveries that show how the past can reveal itself unexpectedly: a red volcanic tuff tiki connected to sacred symbolism of the color red across Polynesia, an ancestor figure found reused in a house alignment suggesting how beliefs shifted during early conversion eras, and turtle petroglyphs revealed only when restored stonework stood upright and the setting sun hit at just the right angle. These moments remind travelers that wonder is often quiet—and that paying attention, patiently, is part of the privilege of travel. If this episode inspires you to explore remote French Polynesia for yourself, Far and Away Adventures can help plan and book an itinerary that’s culturally informed, respectful, and designed to let you experience the islands with depth.

In this episode, we talk about Guadalcanal Province in the Solomon Islands as a destination that expands what “island travel” can mean—blending living culture, dramatic nature, and globally significant history in one place. 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 one of the Solomon Islands’ most important regions and speaks with a guest connected to Guadalcanal tourism efforts about how travelers can experience the island in depth rather than just ticking off a list.The conversation begins with an overview of Guadalcanal’s role in the country. The guest describes Guadalcanal as one of the larger islands and notes that Honiara, the national capital, is located there, making it a natural gateway for exploration. But the episode quickly shifts from “gateway” to “identity,” emphasizing cultural diversity across the island. Multiple languages exist within Guadalcanal, and traditions differ between regions—meaning travelers can notice different ways of living and communicating depending on where they go. For world travelers, this is one of the most compelling reasons to visit: the destination isn’t a single experience repeated; it is variation, nuance, and contrast within one island.One of the most tangible ways to connect with that identity is through village visits. The guest highlights villages that welcome visitors and offer opportunities to experience traditional crafts, food preparation, and everyday life. Sustainability is mentioned as part of this experience as well, including how communities grow food and maintain their lifestyle. For travelers who seek meaningful connection, these moments can change the whole tone of a trip: instead of observing from a distance, you’re learning and participating respectfully in a place that is lived-in and culturally complex.Nature is discussed as the second major pillar. Tenaru Waterfall is highlighted as a signature attraction—described as the biggest waterfall in the Solomon Islands—and recommended as a must-see for visitors. The guest also notes coastal experiences such as beaches for swimming and relaxing, and ocean activities, including snorkeling, diving, and fishing, for travelers who want time on the water. Inland, the conversation references mountain areas where hikers can explore waterfalls and caves, including a cave location described as having thousands of bats and striking scenery nearby. The takeaway is that Guadalcanal offers a rare balance: coast and interior, gentle days and more adventurous days, all within reach.History completes the picture. Guadalcanal is described as a major WWII battleground, and the guest notes that travelers can visit memorials and historic sites around Honiara and beyond. The conversation references the Mount Austen area, memorial locations near central Honiara, and areas near the airport region, along with additional places outside the city where war relics are still visible. For many travelers, these places are not just “historical stops”—they are opportunities to understand the Pacific story in a way that books cannot replicate.If you want your next trip to feel like it broadened your understanding of the world—through culture, landscape, and history—Guadalcanal is a destination that delivers. Connect with a Far and Away Adventures specialist to build an itinerary that balances village culture, Tenaru Waterfall, coastal time, and thoughtfully paced WWII history experiences in a way that fits your travel rhythm.

,In this episode, we talk about Aranui 5 shore excursions and island experiences with Lehi, and why the way you explore a place can change what you understand about it. Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com are the best starting points if you want help planning travel that’s immersive and logistics-smart—especially when the destination is remote and the day-to-day experience depends on local infrastructure and local welcome. Normand Schafer records this conversation onboard, and Lehi’s 14 years guiding guests through French Polynesia reveal why this journey often feels less like “taking a cruise” and more like living inside a traveling community for nearly two weeks.Lehi explains that Aranui is a deluxe freighter cruise, and that difference shows up most clearly in the shore program. Excursions are included at every port, which means the travel experience is not built around a single ship-centric entertainment bubble. Instead, each island day is intentionally connected to people, places, and cultural context. On Nuku Hiva, for example, the day can run from early morning to late afternoon, with safari-style four-wheel-drive transport, visits to meaningful sites such as a cathedral and archaeological areas, and lunch ashore where guests are welcomed with music and dance. Normand emphasizes that guests may cross the island while the ship repositions to another harbor—an operational detail that makes the day feel like actual travel, not a loop designed to return you to the same spot.What makes this episode resonate for “travel the world” listeners is that it goes beyond what you do and into how it feels. Lehi describes the Marquesas welcome as something deeper than polite greetings—something heartfelt and sincere. He also points out that while island groups in Polynesia share roots, they express identity in different ways, including different languages and cultural textures. For travelers, that’s a reminder not to flatten destinations into a single stereotype. Even within one country or one region, there are many worlds—and the best travel reveals those differences respectfully.Logistics can be challenging. Transportation is limited on small islands, and when large groups move at once, people can become impatient—especially in heat or when vehicles aren’t instantly visible. Lehi’s insight is useful precisely because it’s not romanticized: your mindset matters. If you stay comfortable, remain patient, and let the local rhythm lead, you’ll experience far less stress and far more connection. That lesson applies in remote places everywhere, not just in French Polynesia.You’ll also hear practical nuance about food. Eating ashore can mean different preparation methods than shipboard meals, sometimes in traditional styles, which can be a highlight in itself. At the same time, special dietary needs can still be supported by preparing meals onboard and bringing them ashore. That detail matters for travelers who assume remote automatically means “I won’t be able to eat safely,” and it underscores the value of planning with professionals who anticipate needs rather than improvising.Finally, the episode explores how experiences shift across archipelagos. Lagoon-focused areas such as Rangiroa may offer optional add-ons like dolphin observation and glass-bottom boat outings, while Bora Bora can include water activities and a memorable motu picnic experience. For hikers, the Fatu Hiva crossing from Omoa to Hanavave offers a 15 km challenge with alternatives for those who want the destination without the full trek. And on Hiva Oa, visitors can connect with cultural history linked to Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel. If you want travel that feels like it teaches you something real—about people, places, and how the world works—this episode delivers. When you’re ready to plan, Far and Away Adventures can help you book the right itinerary and shape the trip to your travel style.

In this episode, we talk about the Solomon Islands as a destination that offers something rare: globally significant history, vibrant cultural traditions, and nature experiences that feel genuinely undiscovered. 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 in a way that connects travelers with the place beyond the headlines.We explore the role Guadalcanal plays for history travelers and why WWII touring remains one of the most common entry points. Sunila describes what travelers can expect to see around Honiara and the surrounding areas, including battlefield-related sites and relics that make the past feel tangible. From there, we shift into the present—how cultural performances and ceremonial experiences can be part of an itinerary, and how traditions like traditional attire and shell money practices differ across provinces. It’s a reminder that the Solomon Islands are not a single story; they’re many stories living side by side.On the nature side, Sunila recommends waterfall trekking as a high-reward way to experience the landscape, highlighting Tenaru Falls as a bucket-list option. We also discuss seasonality and why timing can influence comfort and the kind of activities that are easiest to enjoy.And then comes the “surprise” experience: a full-day volcanic tour on Savo Island, reached by boat from Honiara, offering a dramatic contrast to the historical touring many travelers start with. If you’re drawn to travel that expands your perspective—where you learn, connect, and explore—this episode offers a strong introduction to why the Solomon Islands belong on a world traveler’s list. When you’re ready, connect with a Far and Away Adventures specialist to shape a Solomon Islands itinerary that fits your interests and pace.

In this episode, we talk about travel that expands your understanding of how the world works—through a conversation about Aranui 5, the upcoming Aranoa ship, and the lifeline role these voyages play in remote parts of French Polynesia. Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com are included early because trips like this are often “once in a lifetime,” and getting the right routing, pacing, and logistics can make the difference between stressful and seamless.Normand Schafer interviews Leo Colin from Aranui Cruises to explore a different kind of cruise story—one that’s less about entertainment schedules and more about purpose. The Aranui model combines passengers with cargo, and that single design choice transforms the entire experience. You see freight operations, you learn what’s being delivered, and you understand how remote island communities rely on these shipments for essential supplies. Instead of traveling in a bubble, you travel inside a working system. For many travelers, that’s what makes the experience unforgettable: it’s scenic, yes, but it’s also grounded in reality.Leo shares what’s behind the next chapter: Aranoa, a sister ship planned to focus heavily on the Austral Islands. He describes a ship designed to maintain the Aranui spirit while scaling to the needs of the region, including differences in supply requirements and the sea conditions typical farther south. The conversation is rich in practical details: ship size comparisons, what capacity means for onboard atmosphere, and how thoughtful design choices can support both traveler comfort and operational reliability.We discuss features planned for Aranoa that are particularly relevant for a broader audience: stabilizers intended to reduce rolling in heavy swells, and dynamic positioning that can keep the ship steady without anchoring in certain conditions. These are not just technical features; they represent the kind of “invisible engineering” that can shape whether a trip feels comfortable and environmentally considerate. Leo also talks about the complexity of shipbuilding—why reviewing drawings, validating systems, and spotting minor issues early can prevent major complications later once the vessel is operating.The episode includes stories that illustrate why this travel style is meaningful. Leo shares a moment involving diesel deliveries and the urgency of keeping an island’s power generation supplied—a reminder that in remote places, logistics can be the difference between normal life and serious disruption. He also describes leaving a bay during a tsunami alert and waiting safely at sea, showing how flexible thinking and authority guidance are part of responsible maritime operations.If you want travel that delivers wonder plus context—where you come home with stories that include culture, ocean reality, and the practical systems that connect people—this episode is for you. And when you’re ready to turn inspiration into a workable plan, Far and Away Adventures can design and book a trip that fits your timeline, comfort needs, and curiosity.

In this episode, we talk about a travel-the-world experience that goes beyond sightseeing: a voyage where you witness real logistics, real community supply lines, and real maritime work—and how Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com can help you plan a trip that’s both adventurous and seamless.Normand interviews Charles, a second captain on the Aranui freighter cruise in French Polynesia, to answer a question travelers often don’t think to ask: what is actually powering this voyage behind the scenes, and what does the ship really carry?Normand calls Aranui a “deluxe freighter cruise,” explaining that it carries about 250 passengers while also moving freight and cargo to remote islands. Charles confirms the hybrid nature of the ship and contrasts it with traveling on a pure cargo vessel, where passenger comfort is not comparable. The result, as described here, is a rare form of world travel: you’re not merely visiting a destination, you’re moving through a functioning system that connects islands. It’s one of those experiences that changes the way you understand “travel,” because you’re seeing how people live, what they rely on, and how distance is managed across a massive ocean.Charles shares his own path into this world. After years working on cruise ships globally, he chose to shift to French Polynesia specifically because it was unfamiliar to him. He signed a short contract and kept extending until it became seven years. Normand remarks on the family-like atmosphere onboard, and Charles agrees that the crew dynamic is close—different roles and departments working together in a way that guests can feel. That social texture is part of what makes the voyage memorable: it’s not anonymous, and it doesn’t feel manufactured.Charles explains that the ship isn’t always able to go to a pier. In some places it anchors, then uses cranes to load freight onto barges that move goods to shore. Normand adds a memorable example: seeing a car loaded onto a barge while swell moved everything up and down. That image captures why many travelers describe Aranui as unforgettable—it’s real, it’s physical, and it’s happening in the open, in the middle of the South Pacific.Charles emphasizes self-sufficiency. He contrasts this route with large commercial cargo ships that typically depend on major ports, pilots, tugs, and shore cranes. On Aranui, he describes arriving and doing complex maneuvers without those supports, relying on onboard cranes, forklifts, and crew expertise. For “travel the world” listeners, this matters because it highlights how travel can be shaped by practical constraints—and how the most unique experiences often come from routes designed around real needs rather than tourism alone.Then there’s the cargo itself. Charles says large animals can be among the strangest shipments—horses, cows, dogs—transported in special ventilated containers placed on deck, with crew responsible for feeding and monitoring. And the story that sums up the unpredictability of real-world travel: a shipment of sheep where one gave birth onboard, turning a planned delivery of seven into a delivered total of eight.The episode also touches on exports and return freight. Charles mentions fruit exports from the Marquesas—lemons and very large citrus (pamplemousse). Normand connects this to the broader network of islands, including mentions of places such as Rangiroa and Bora Bora, and Charles notes refrigerated containers and onward movement to additional islands via smaller ships. Suddenly, a “cruise” becomes a lesson in geography, economy, and survival across a blue expanse.If you want to travel the world in a way that teaches you something real—about how communities function, how supplies move, and how ocean conditions shape decisions—Episode 2 is a perfect listen. And if you want help planning the voyage so it fits your budget, timeline, and comfort level, start with https://farandawayadventures.com.

In this episode, we talk about a “travel the world” experience that’s powered by people as much as by places: a deluxe freighter voyage aboard Aranui 5 (and the Aranoa), seen through the eyes of an onboard guide. If you want expert help turning a dream voyage in French Polynesia into a plan that’s easy to execute, visit https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand interviews Spencer Hata Utuya to understand how these voyages are created day by day—and why flexibility is part of what makes them real.Spencer’s story begins with a surprising detail: he didn’t grow into guiding through traditional tourism training. He studied business management and marketing and expected a different career path. After being rejected from leadership roles due to lack of experience, he found a guide position onboard the ship and started in September 2022. By late 2025, he had learned what “world travel” often teaches the fastest: you don’t master a destination by memorizing a brochure—you master it through humility, repetition, and real interaction with the people and places that define it.One of the strongest themes is preparation as respect. Spencer shares that early on, he realized travelers sometimes knew more than he did about French Polynesia’s islands and history. That could have been discouraging, but for him it became motivation to study deeply and continuously. He describes reading and reviewing his notes every evening so he can deliver the best version of each island story. Even when he knows the material, reviewing it keeps him sharp. It also keeps him ready when guide assignments change unexpectedly—if a colleague is sick, hurt, or dealing with a personal challenge, the team reshuffles, and the prepared guide can step in without compromising the guest experience.The episode also offers a rare look at how remote itineraries are actually handled. Spencer explains that the next voyage’s program begins being drafted during the current voyage, often in the final days before arriving back at the end. The team lays out the structure—daily schedule, included and optional excursions, connections—but they intentionally leave room for adjustments because changes can come from local communities, contractors, tourism offices, or island organizations. Two stories bring that reality to life. On a Marquesas sailing, a dance performance was expected but didn’t happen because of a family situation among the performers. Spencer describes how that affects logistics and guest mood, and how guides manage the moment respectfully while keeping guests engaged. On an Australs sailing, a bus tour ran into a chain of problems: a bus ran out of gas, a replacement vehicle required a driver to retrieve forgotten keys, and guests waited. Spencer explains how guides turn waiting into learning by walking around, talking about the landscape, and keeping the group connected to the destination rather than to the delay. Religious calendars can affect who works on which days, so partnerships shift—one cruise might work with one group, another cruise with a different group—based on the schedule. For travelers who truly want to “travel the world,” this is a reminder that the most authentic trips are often collaborative and dynamic.The conversation closes with practical advice that fits any world traveler visiting remote islands: pack good shoes for hikes, water shoes for coral environments, repellent, and a raincoat for sudden weather changes. Spencer also emphasizes an open mind—Polynesian hospitality can be warm and physically friendly, and letting your guard down a little helps you experience the destination more deeply. If you want world travel that feels human—where the story is shaped by preparation, relationships, and real-life moments—this Aranui 5 behind-the-scenes episode delivers. For help planning the right voyage, connect with Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com.

In this episode, we talk about what makes Niu Beach Hotel a memorable stop for travelers exploring the world’s most beautiful islands. Sylvia Martino shares how this small west-coast property offers a sense of privacy and peace that contrasts with more traditional resort experiences.We explore how thoughtful design, local staffing, and a lagoon-front setting create an experience that feels both luxurious and authentic. This episode is ideal for travelers looking to add a meaningful and relaxing stay to their global travel plans.

In this episode, we talk about one of those travel moments that sticks with you: floating over coral gardens in Moorea while the mountains rise behind an electric-blue lagoon. Normand interviews Nico from Moorea Water Games at the Sofitel Nautical Center, and if you’re looking to turn big “travel the world” dreams into a plan that actually works, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com. This episode is a reminder that world-class experiences aren’t only found in far-flung corners—they’re found where great places meet great operators.Moorea is introduced as the kind of island that makes you slow down and stare at the water. Normand frames the lagoon’s appeal with the details travelers chase: bright turquoise shallows, clear visibility, and marine life that feels close and interactive. Nico explains that his nautical center operates from inside the Sofitel resort and faces a lagoon area they consider among the best snorkeling spots on the island. It’s not just about beauty—it’s about access, consistency, and a setting that can deliver memorable snorkeling for a wide range of travelers.The conversation also reveals how experiences evolve when locals respond to what guests actually need. Nico shares that the operation began with rentals like kayaks and paddleboards. But the underwater world—corals, fish variety, and overall reef scenery—pushed him to create something different: guided snorkeling tours using sea scooters, run in small groups. The intention was simple: make the lagoon feel personal, not packed, and give guests time to enjoy the reef without the pressure of a fast, crowded schedule.The sea scooter becomes a metaphor for modern adventure travel done thoughtfully. Nico compares it to an e-bike in the water, and the point is clear: you can move efficiently without exhausting yourself. That can mean more time observing fish and coral, and less time worrying about keeping up. Normand notes how helpful this is for mixed groups—families, couples, or friends—where comfort levels in the ocean vary. Full-face mask options further reduce friction for people who struggle with traditional snorkel breathing, helping them relax into the experience.Marine life gets its moment, too. The episode mentions friendly stingrays and a rich reef environment that guests often describe as one of the best they’ve seen. Nico talks about a turtle cleaning station—his “turtle spa”—where turtles may pause while fish clean their shells. He also notes that every day can be different, with occasional surprises like nurse sharks or barracuda mentioned as examples of how dynamic the lagoon can be. Nothing is promised, but the sense of possibility is part of what makes world travel feel alive.Importantly, the episode keeps reef protection front and center. Nico explains that the area is described as a marine reserve with rules such as no anchoring, plus limits on boats and activities designed to reduce impact. Their team provides a briefing before each tour that covers safety and coral etiquette—don’t step on reef, follow the guide, and move carefully in shallow zones where fins can cause damage. Normand reinforces the long timeline of coral growth and the importance of travelers doing their part.If you’re someone who loves seeing the world through experiences—snorkeling, wildlife encounters, and learning how a place is cared for—this Moorea story belongs on your list. And when you want help connecting Moorea to the broader journey—flights, island sequencing, resort selection, and the right mix of relaxation and adventure—reach out at Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com.

In this episode we talk about how Breakas Beach Resort has become a global favorite among couples and solo travelers seeking relaxed, meaningful holidays. Host Normand Schafer hears how international guests connect with the resort’s natural design, quiet beaches, and authentic experiences — far from the big-brand resort buzz.

In this episode we talk about how Bountiful Tours and Transfers is redefining what it means to tour responsibly. Host Normand Schafer discusses the power of choosing locally owned operators and how this team brings cultural sensitivity, personal storytelling, and logistical know-how to every traveler’s journey. It’s a case study in how community tourism should be done.

In this episode we talk about how world travelers can connect with something truly meaningful in Vanuatu through Authentic Mala Tours. Host Normand Schafer explores the emotional and sensory impact of visiting Mele Village — including kava ceremonies, storytelling, and custom dances. It’s a reminder that sometimes the greatest discoveries come from people, not places.

In this episode we talk about why American Samoa is an often-overlooked jewel of the Pacific, waiting to be discovered by global travelers. Host Normand Schafer interviews the American Samoa Tourism Office about why this destination is a hidden gem for culture lovers, adventure seekers, and those seeking peace and authenticity. From cultural ceremonies to pristine wilderness, American Samoa offers something unique for every kind of traveler.

In this episode we talk about how Air Niugini connects the diverse landscapes of Papua New Guinea — from tropical beaches to misty mountain ranges. Host Normand Schafer interviews the airline team about regional routes, seasonal access, and how they’ve supported tourism development in the South Pacific’s most culturally diverse country.

In this episode we talk about how Agnes Gateway Hotel has quietly become a favorite for global adventurers looking for meaningful travel. Host Normand Schafer explores what brings international guests to this peaceful corner of the world — from diving the Rainbow Reef to experiencing true Pacific Island culture far from the crowds.

In this episode we talk about why international travelers fall in love with the Cook Islands. Host Normand Schafer welcomes Daniel from Cook Islands Tourism, who explains how these small islands offer a global traveler’s dream: stunning landscapes, untouched beaches, and heartfelt human connection. Learn how to explore the main island of Rarotonga, venture to remote atolls, and engage with locals who make every visitor feel like family.

In this episode, we talk about why Tanna Island, Vanuatu, belongs on a travel-the-world bucket list—and how White Grass Ocean Resort helps you experience the island’s culture, active volcano, and vibrant reef in one unforgettable trip. For custom planning support, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com and connect with our team to design the right South Pacific itinerary.Normand Schafer is joined by Lindle from White Grass Ocean Resort to explore a destination that feels both remote and deeply rewarding: Tanna Island in Vanuatu. The episode frames Tanna as culturally rich within Melanesia, with communities and traditions that remain a meaningful part of daily life. For travelers who want more than postcard views, Tanna offers the chance to witness a living culture while also enjoying the kind of natural spectacle that makes you feel like you’ve truly traveled to the edge of the map.That natural spectacle is Mount Yasur, an active volcano frequently described as one of the most accessible of its kind. Lindle explains the experience as a progression through landscapes: driving through jungle highlands, emerging onto ash plains, and finishing with a short walk up to the rim. Normand shares the emotional impact of being there at night, when the volcano’s activity creates a once-in-a-lifetime scene—one that sticks with travelers for years. For many people, this alone justifies the trip, and the episode helps you understand how it fits into a comfortable resort-based itinerary.The conversation then moves into the ocean experiences that round out a “travel the world” style adventure. White Grass Ocean Resort has an on-site PADI Eco Dive Center called Volcano Island Divers, and the reef is accessed directly from a purpose-built jetty. This setup allows divers to drop into clear water and explore a variety of underwater features—walls, coral bommies, caves, and swim-throughs—without complicated logistics. Snorkelers and families get strong options too, including blue holes within walking distance that are described as aquarium-like when conditions are calm and the sun is high. The episode touches on how tides and surges can affect the experience, helping travelers choose the right spots for their comfort level.Another highlight is the Blue Cave excursion, where mid-day light can stream down through an opening and create cathedral-like illumination in the water. Lindle explains why this is a favorite for photography and why different times can produce different colors and moods. Throughout the episode, the message is that Tanna delivers variety: dramatic geology, vibrant underwater scenes, and cultural discovery, all within a manageable footprint that still feels adventurous.Sustainability is a meaningful thread in the discussion. Lindle explains how eco recognition and stewardship show up in real-world practices, including coral-safe diver guidance, respectful wildlife interaction, and community projects like World Ocean Day cleanups with local students. The episode also discusses training local staff through dive certifications, reinforcing the idea that responsible tourism supports long-term benefits for the island.Finally, they cover timing and what to expect across the year. April through October is described as generally drier with cooler evenings, while Tanna remains a year-round destination with warm days. If you’re building a “travel the world” list and want a place that feels genuinely different—volcano nights, reef days, and a cultural experience that stays with you—Tanna deserves a spot near the top. Start planning at https://farandawayadventures.com and let Far and Away Adventures help you turn it into a smooth, unforgettable journey.

In this episode we talk about one of the world’s lesser-known destinations — Vanuatu — and how Adventures in Paradise helps travelers discover its secrets. Host Normand Schafer uncovers waterfalls, cultural treasures, and volcanic landscapes that rival any on Earth. Hear stories of curious travelers turned lifelong fans, and learn how to make this hidden gem part of your global adventure.

In this episode we talk about how global travelers can experience the Cook Islands like a local. Host Normand Schafer sits down with Timu from Cook Islands Tours to discuss how the company bridges cultures by introducing visitors to the island’s people, traditions, and lifestyle. From sharing food and laughter in local homes to learning traditional fishing methods, this episode shows that the world feels smaller — and friendlier — in Rarotonga.

In this episode we talk about how Captain Cook Cruises Fiji has become a favorite for international travelers seeking a unique, floating base for island exploration. Normand Schafer interviews representatives at SPTE to learn how global guests are welcomed with both luxury and authenticity. From families to solo backpackers, their cruises offer a universal invitation to experience Fiji’s wonders.