In this episode, we talk about Serenity Island Resort and why it hits that sweet spot for travelers who want an easy Fiji island escape without the formality—just beaches, snorkeling, relaxed hospitality, and the freedom to do as much or as little as you want. If you’re planning Fiji, start at Far a… In this episode, we talk about Serenity Island Resort and why it hits that sweet spot for travelers who want an easy Fiji island escape without the formality—just beaches, snorkeling, relaxed hospitality, and the freedom to do as much or as little as you want. If you’re planning Fiji, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com so your trip fits your mood, your timeline, and your travel style. Normand Schafer is joined by Jess, Sales and Marketing Coordinator at Serenity Island Resort, who describes Serenity as a 48-acre “one island, one resort” getaway that’s intentionally barefoot, rustic, and traditional rather than polished and five-star. She explains the resort currently offers 33 individual standalone bures—traditional Fijian-style accommodations with air conditioning and private ensuites—so you get comfort without losing that casual island feel. What makes Serenity especially appealing is how accessible it is. Jess describes reaching the island via a short boat ride from Vuda Marina, and she also mentions an alternate route from Denarau with South Sea Cruises. Once you arrive, the whole point is to slow down. Jess describes a typical day as not stressful at all: wake up whenever you want, breakfast is included, then drift between the pool, the beach, and the water. She highlights that you can snorkel straight off the beaches where the reef drops down, describing beautiful coral and easy marine access that doesn’t require a full-day excursion. She also notes non-motorized water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are included, and that some guests simply enjoy walking or even running around the island. The “Just Travel” charm in this episode is that Jess doesn’t oversell activities—she says the most popular activity is relaxing. Serenity isn’t trying to be a luxury showcase; it’s a real “flop and drop” island where the best plan is often no plan. That said, the resort still offers unique experiences. Jess mentions cooking classes (including kokoda) and shares details about Serenity’s turtle conservation work. She explains that the resort has three turtle pools and currently has baby turtles on site, and that turtles are released at around a year and a half old. For many travelers, that kind of story becomes the thing they remember most because it’s meaningful, not just scenic. For guests who want extra outings beyond the island, Jess mentions options like arranging jet skis and helping guests visit Cloud 9 or Seventh Heaven. She also notes the resort is enjoyed year-round, describing Fiji’s mild seasonal shifts in the conversation. Then comes the big update: Serenity Sands glamping tents opening in September 2025. Jess describes 10 new glamping tents designed to take up to four people, featuring private decking, a king bed plus bunk beds, a private ensuite, and air conditioning—plus a new pool, bar, restaurants, and barbecue facilities, right on the beach. It’s “total glamping,” as she puts it, and a very new product for Fiji. If you want an island escape that’s easy, relaxed, and genuinely fun without being complicated—and you want help deciding whether bures or the new glamping option makes more sense—Far and Away Adventures can help you build the best plan and keep the logistics seamless. more

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

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

In this episode, we talk about Rivers Fiji and the kind of experience that changes how people think about Fiji: whitewater rafting through remote rainforest canyons on the Upper Navua River, far from the usual coastal vacation rhythm. If you’re planning a trip to Fiji and want help designing a trip … In this episode, we talk about Rivers Fiji and the kind of experience that changes how people think about Fiji: whitewater rafting through remote rainforest canyons on the Upper Navua River, far from the usual coastal vacation rhythm. If you’re planning a trip to Fiji and want help designing a trip that includes both comfort and real adventure, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer is joined by Casemiro, director at Rivers Fiji, for a conversation that highlights a simple truth—Fiji has an interior world most visitors never meet, and the upper river is one of the most vivid ways to experience it. Casemiro explains that Rivers Fiji focuses on whitewater rafting and describes it as a standout offering within the destination. He also emphasizes that rafting isn’t only for thrill addicts; he shares that they have taken an 80-year-old guest down the river, which is his way of illustrating the wide range of people who can enjoy a day on the water. Another theme that stands out is the family element. Casemiro talks about modern disconnect—how screens can separate parents and kids even while on vacation—and he frames a rafting day as a natural reset. You’re together in the same raft, sharing the same scenery, the same moments of excitement, and the same sense of discovery. That shared space is part of what makes the day feel memorable, not just “fun.” Normand asks why the Upper Navua River is so unique, and Casemiro contrasts it with the familiar South Pacific beach image. He suggests that a beach photo can look like many places around the world, but the upper river feels unmistakably Fiji because of its landscapes: high canyon walls, rainforest corridors, and a setting that’s remote enough to feel like you’ve stepped into a different era. Casemiro describes the upper corridor as a place where no one lives along the river route, and he says that isolation creates a “back in time” feeling—especially when mist hangs in the canyon and the scenery feels almost prehistoric in mood. The conversation also clarifies the types of trips Rivers Fiji offers across different sections of the river system. Casemiro notes that kayaking is available on a different section (lower/middle), while the upper section is associated with rafting. He describes the rapids discussed for the upper river as Class II and III and frames them as a great match for beginners: enough movement to feel like true whitewater, but still presented as manageable for first-timers with professional support. He also notes that life jackets are part of the experience and presents the day as accessible even for guests who are not confident swimmers. One of the most compelling parts of the episode is what Casemiro says about guides. He describes them as more than safety leaders—they bring the landscape to life by explaining rock formations, pointing out birds and animals, and sharing stories tied to how their forefathers grew up connected to the river and the highlands. That interpretation makes the scenery feel meaningful instead of just scenic. Normand asks what guests say after their first trip, and Casemiro describes the experience as consistently called unforgettable, with repeat travelers coming back and others sending friends and family through referrals because they don’t want anyone to miss it. The episode also includes simple preparation advice so the day feels smooth: bring sunscreen (with a preference for biodegradable options), sandals with secure straps, and a change of dry clothes. Casemiro adds that Rivers Fiji provides towels and covers the other key needs, and suggests leaving dry items in the bus until the end. Finally, he shares what he hopes people take home: a stronger respect for nature and the responsibility to protect it, so these places can remain wild and thriving. more

In this episode we talk about Rivers Tubing Fiji and why their Navua River day feels like a rare combination—adventure you can actually do as a family, nature that feels wild and cinematic, and a village visit that’s respectful and real. If you’re planning Fiji and want help choosing experiences tha… In this episode we talk about Rivers Tubing Fiji and why their Navua River day feels like a rare combination—adventure you can actually do as a family, nature that feels wild and cinematic, and a village visit that’s respectful and real. If you’re planning Fiji and want help choosing experiences that fit your pace and location, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer speaks with William, Managing Director of Rivers Tubing Fiji, and the conversation walks you through the full experience so you can picture it before you book it. William explains that guests are picked up from resorts around the country and brought to their base, with the boat departing at 10:00 a.m. The day begins with a boat ride about 17 kilometers upriver through the gorge—moving through rapids and past waterfalls—before reaching a remote village that is only accessible by boat. That “only by boat” detail matters, because William explains the river is the community’s highway for market, school, hospital, and daily life. Instead of turning the village into a staged tourist stop, William says their approach is to support the community without changing its way of life. Guests walk through the village and see daily life as it is—people weaving, fishing, hunting, and farming—creating a kind of authenticity that many travelers don’t expect to find on a “fun adventure” day. After the village, the tour heads downstream to a waterfall stop with a short five-minute walk in, where guests can swim and reset in a beautiful natural pool. Then it’s time for a riverside lunch right on the riverbank, and William describes a buffet-style meal that intentionally includes familiar options for picky eaters and kids—barbecue-style chicken, lamb sausages, bread—alongside traditional Fijian foods like fish in coconut cream. One of the most memorable details is that guides collect fiddlehead ferns from the forest and boil them in front of guests, serving them with local root crops, salads, and fruit, so the meal becomes a relaxed introduction to local ingredients without feeling intimidating. After lunch there’s another safety briefing, life jackets go back on, and the tubing begins. William describes the early rapids as smaller and suitable for most ages, with larger rapids appearing toward the final sections. The key is choice: guests can opt in or skip the bigger rapids by riding in the boat. He also explains how they handle very young children—kids as young as two or three can float with parents on larger tubes with guides assisting, and children are put into the boat before the bigger rapids—making the experience accessible across comfort levels. We also talk honestly about the logistics depending on where you’re staying. William notes that for travelers based in the Nadi/Denarau area, it’s a very early start (pickups around 6:30 a.m.) and can become a long day—he describes it as about a 12-hour trip from Nadi—while those staying on the Coral Coast or near Pacific Harbour have later pickups and shorter transit time. Seasonality comes up too. William says wet season (typically November to April) often means higher water and better rapids, but the tour runs year-round, and Fiji weather can surprise you even in drier months. more

In this episode, we talk about what travelers rarely get in a typical destination overview: the everyday reality behind a dream setting, and the personal journey of someone who has made the Yasawa Islands home. Far and Away Adventures.com is where you can start planning with expert guidance, and you… In this episode, we talk about what travelers rarely get in a typical destination overview: the everyday reality behind a dream setting, and the personal journey of someone who has made the Yasawa Islands home. Far and Away Adventures.com is where you can start planning with expert guidance, and you can explore more at https://farandawayadventures.com. Host Normand Schaefer sits down with Sava, Assistant Resort Manager at Mantaray Island Resort, for a conversation that’s less about “top 10 things to do” and more about what it feels like to live, work, and build a life in a remote part of Fiji.

Sava begins by sharing how she arrived from Fiji’s main island and entered the tourism industry for the first time at Mantaray. She describes the early period as a trial—something new, unfamiliar, and full of learning. Starting in the reservations and front office, she grew over the years into leadership, eventually becoming Assistant Resort Manager. That growth story adds a human layer to travel: the person welcoming you may have spent years building skills, relationships, and a sense of responsibility toward guests and community.

The conversation then shifts into island living. Normand asks how life in the Yasawas has shaped her after growing up in more urban areas, and Sava shares that adapting to the islands was challenging at first. She missed family, adjusted to different living conditions, and learned to navigate remoteness and fewer big-city conveniences. Yet she also describes what many travelers hope to find: peace. She speaks about finding her “other half,” adapting into the island community, and embracing a rhythm where serenity is part of the landscape—not something you schedule.

One of the most relatable moments comes when Normand asks what guests ask her about life on the island. Sava says people often ask, “How do you survive?” It’s a question travelers feel in their bones when they arrive somewhere that looks like paradise but clearly functions differently from home. Sava explains that staff aren’t always in the water enjoying the beach—this is work—but even in the hustle of a day the environment gives peace of mind. She contrasts city life—commuting back and forth—with island life, where she can wake up, walk to work, and take in scenery that many people only see for a few days. It’s a simple image that captures why the Yasawas can feel so restorative.

From there, Sava shares what she believes sets Mantaray apart: snorkeling and the house reef, which she notes has been designated a marine reserve, plus the seasonal presence of manta rays passing through at certain times of year. She also emphasizes service and staff warmth, noting that guest feedback frequently highlights the people. Over her 17 years, she has seen big changes at the resort—upgraded accommodations, improved facilities, and additions like a pool and expanded dining spaces. She reflects on how the resort’s evolution has shifted from heavier dorm-style backpacking roots toward more private options and updated amenities, while still retaining island character.

Finally, the episode highlights local community impact. Sava explains that staffing includes recruitment from multiple nearby villages, contributing to local employment and strengthening community ties. Her advice for first-time Yasawa travelers is direct: don’t miss Mantaray when you head into the islands, because there are plenty of activities—snorkeling, diving, and weekly schedules that make it easy to plan your days. Whether you arrive with a plan or arrive with none and a sense of adventure, she says the team can help you shape the stay. If you want to travel not just to see a place, but to understand it through a person who lives it, this episode is for you. more

In this episode, we talk about Tour Managers Fiji and the small planning decisions that make a huge difference when you’re traveling as a group—whether it’s a wedding party, conference attendees, a multi-island family reunion, or a luxury tour with lots of moving pieces. If you want help building a … In this episode, we talk about Tour Managers Fiji and the small planning decisions that make a huge difference when you’re traveling as a group—whether it’s a wedding party, conference attendees, a multi-island family reunion, or a luxury tour with lots of moving pieces. If you want help building a Fiji trip that feels smooth from start to finish, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer is joined by Natasha, General Manager of Weddings and Events at Tour Managers Fiji, and the conversation focuses on the “real world” side of group travel: arrivals, schedules, guest flow, and making sure the experience still feels warm and personal. Natasha explains that their work begins as soon as guests land, and one of their signature elements is meet-and-greet service—welcoming guests with a polished arrival process and optional touches that create instant excitement, like staff in traditional attire, serenading, or entertainment on arrival. Those details sound simple, but for groups, they solve a big problem: they create a clear starting point where everyone feels guided and included. Normand asks how Tour Managers Fiji manages the logistics behind weddings and events, and Natasha says it’s manageable when the planning is done properly—especially because weddings and events (including corporate groups) are her specialty. A major takeaway is her emphasis on advance booking. She explains that group trips run smoothest when the itinerary is planned ahead, and everything is secured in advance—because if you wait, you can miss out on key accommodations or experiences you want for the group. Culture is also part of the story. Natasha describes “blue ribbon tours” (BRTs) designed to tap into Fiji’s culture and heritage so guests don’t just pass through Fiji—they experience it with intention. We also hear who they work with, ranging from FITs and couples to honeymooners, luxury travelers, and conferencing groups, showing the flexibility of a team that can scale up or down depending on the trip. Seasonality comes into the discussion too, with low season (November to April) and high season (April to October), and the winter window (end of May to early October) highlighted as a popular time to travel and host weddings. Natasha closes the loop by explaining what can be bundled into a single coordinated plan: customized meet-and-greet, group transfers, tours, accommodations, and corporate event components. If you want group travel to feel effortless—and still feel Fiji—this episode gives you a clear blueprint: plan early, bundle the logistics, and let a professional team manage the flow so you can focus on the moments that matter. more

Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson, joined Pauline Frommer to discuss the destinations that will be particularly vacation-worthy in 2026. Today's show covered Peru, Jasper (Alberta, Canada), Hot Springs (Arkansas), Viti Levu (Fiji), Costa Navarino (Greece)… Frommers.com's Editor in Chief Jason Cochran, and Managing Editor Zac Thompson, joined Pauline Frommer to discuss the destinations that will be particularly vacation-worthy in 2026. Today's show covered Peru, Jasper (Alberta, Canada), Hot Springs (Arkansas), Viti Levu (Fiji), Costa Navarino (Greece), and the United States' 250th birthday celebration venues. To see the complete list go to Frommers.com/bestplaces2026.

Takeaways:

• In our discussion, we emphasized that Peru offers far more than just Machu Picchu, highlighting its diverse attractions.
• The recent political unrest in Peru has affected tourism, necessitating a focus on alternative destinations within the country.
• We introduced Costa Navarino in Greece as an emerging travel destination, providing a unique cultural experience without the usual tourist crowds.
• The Rocky Mountaineer Train's new Jasper to Banff route presents an opportunity to explore the stunning Canadian Rockies conveniently and luxuriously.
• Viti Levu in Fiji is becoming more accessible to North American travelers, enriching its cultural landscape with a mix of influences.
• The United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary with nationwide events that promote historical education and civic engagement.
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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 ty… 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. more

In this episode we talk about what it’s really like to stay at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji. Normand Schafer shares stories from guests and staff, detailing the personalized service, gourmet meals, and ocean-focused experiences that combine for a uniquely grounding, five-star stay.

In this episode we talk about the emotional and logistical impact of arriving in paradise by helicopter. Host Normand Schafer shares insights into Island Hoppers’ safety record, booking process, and what it’s really like to soar above the reefs before landing steps from your resort. It’s a unique tr… In this episode we talk about the emotional and logistical impact of arriving in paradise by helicopter. Host Normand Schafer shares insights into Island Hoppers’ safety record, booking process, and what it’s really like to soar above the reefs before landing steps from your resort. It’s a unique travel experience worth considering. more

In this episode we talk about what truly sets InterContinental Fiji apart from other luxury resorts in the South Pacific. Normand Schafer shares behind-the-scenes insights from his visit and conversation with the team, covering everything from beach access to the resort’s sustainability efforts.

In this episode we talk about the real guest experience at one of Fiji’s best-known international resorts. Normand Schafer walks through room types, dining highlights, pools, and amenities, offering listeners a personal, unbiased view of Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa. Get a feel for the atmosphere,… In this episode we talk about the real guest experience at one of Fiji’s best-known international resorts. Normand Schafer walks through room types, dining highlights, pools, and amenities, offering listeners a personal, unbiased view of Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa. Get a feel for the atmosphere, the service, and whether it’s the right fit for your next island trip. more

In this episode we talk about how to add excitement to your Fiji itinerary with Go Dirty Tours. Host Normand Schafer chats with the team about their most popular rides, safety tips for first-timers, and what makes a muddy ride through sugar cane fields so incredibly memorable. It’s an accessible, wi… In this episode we talk about how to add excitement to your Fiji itinerary with Go Dirty Tours. Host Normand Schafer chats with the team about their most popular rides, safety tips for first-timers, and what makes a muddy ride through sugar cane fields so incredibly memorable. It’s an accessible, wild experience you’ll never forget. more

In this episode we talk about the laid-back charm of Fiji Orchid, a boutique retreat just 15 minutes north of Nadi. Host Normand Schafer chats with the resort’s team to learn how the resort blends indoor-outdoor living, spa services, and a world-class restaurant into a calm, curated experience. If y… In this episode we talk about the laid-back charm of Fiji Orchid, a boutique retreat just 15 minutes north of Nadi. Host Normand Schafer chats with the resort’s team to learn how the resort blends indoor-outdoor living, spa services, and a world-class restaurant into a calm, curated experience. If you love simplicity with style, this episode is your guide to understated luxury. more

In this episode we talk about how travel becomes transformative through the work of the Duvata Collective. Host Normand Schafer dives into how this grassroots initiative connects visitors with local stories, sacred sites, and sustainable land practices. Hear why many travelers describe their time wi… In this episode we talk about how travel becomes transformative through the work of the Duvata Collective. Host Normand Schafer dives into how this grassroots initiative connects visitors with local stories, sacred sites, and sustainable land practices. Hear why many travelers describe their time with Duvata not as a tour — but as a homecoming. Simple, powerful, unforgettable. more

In this episode we talk about the immersive experience of visiting Culture Village Fiji, where travelers are welcomed not as tourists, but as guests. Host Normand Schafer walks through the day’s highlights — warrior dances, kava rituals, storytelling under palm trees — all designed to spark wonder a… In this episode we talk about the immersive experience of visiting Culture Village Fiji, where travelers are welcomed not as tourists, but as guests. Host Normand Schafer walks through the day’s highlights — warrior dances, kava rituals, storytelling under palm trees — all designed to spark wonder and respect. If you're interested in culture, this is Fiji at its finest. more

Erin and Kattie are hitting the feed with a new monthly series of "POSTCARDS"!

In between each regular episode, catch discussions on the latest in travel-related media and one hot topic that's fresh on Erin's mind.

In this POSTCARD:

• A first-time-traveler heads to Fiji to star reality TV.
• The … Erin and Kattie are hitting the feed with a new monthly series of "POSTCARDS"!

In between each regular episode, catch discussions on the latest in travel-related media and one hot topic that's fresh on Erin's mind.

In this POSTCARD:

• A first-time-traveler heads to Fiji to star reality TV.
• The extreme day trip content flooding social media.
• The illegal stairway to heaven hike makes us question the economy of travel content.
Send your questions or commentary to the show on Instagram @curioustourismpod or email [email protected]

If you're a fan of the show, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review Curious Tourism: Responsible Travel Podcast.

Read Erin's award-winning blog, Pina Travels.

Subscribe to Kattie's podcasting newsletter, Pod the North.

CREDITS

Written and Hosted by Erin Hynes

Produced by Kattie Laur

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This podcast is part of the Voyascape Travel Network, that brings together the world's best travel podcasts. You can find all of our podcasts from around the world at Voyascape.com.

If you are interested in advertising or sponsored content on any of our shows you can find out more at the link below.

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In this episode we talk about the versatile offerings of Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa. Host Normand Schafer chats with Shristi Mala about how this property caters to leisure seekers, business travelers, and island hoppers alike. With beachfront views, high-speed connectivity, and a world-… In this episode we talk about the versatile offerings of Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa. Host Normand Schafer chats with Shristi Mala about how this property caters to leisure seekers, business travelers, and island hoppers alike. With beachfront views, high-speed connectivity, and a world-class spa, this is one resort where you can recharge before heading deeper into Fiji—or stay and enjoy everything onsite. more

In this episode we talk about the timeless charm of Castaway Island Fiji. Host Normand Schafer explores what makes this private island so special through his conversation with General Manager Steven. Whether you're a first-time traveler or a return guest, this episode details the island’s perfect mi… In this episode we talk about the timeless charm of Castaway Island Fiji. Host Normand Schafer explores what makes this private island so special through his conversation with General Manager Steven. Whether you're a first-time traveler or a return guest, this episode details the island’s perfect mix of rustic charm and refined experience. Come for the beaches, stay for the heart. more