In this episode we talk about how Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji has created one of the most enriching family travel experiences in the South Pacific. Host Normand Schafer explores the unique Bula Club for kids, one-on-one nannies, and family-focused marine excursions. It’s luxury parenting made easy — with purpose, play, and plenty of snorkeling.

In this episode, we talk about planning a family-friendly Cook Islands getaway using the Rarotongan Beach Group of Resorts—especially why the Rarotongan Beach Resort & Lagoonarium is such a win for families and multi-generation trips. For help matching the right resort to your group and building a smooth itinerary, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com and connect with a specialist.

Normand Schafer sits down with a resort representative to break down three different stay styles across Rarotonga and Aitutaki, starting with the Lagoonarium—described as a marine sanctuary right in front of the resort where you can snorkel and spot wildlife like turtles without needing a separate tour. It’s a simple but powerful idea for family travel: fewer transfers, more time in the water, and an experience that works for different ages and energy levels. The conversation also highlights how convenient Rarotonga can feel on the ground—no complicated transport planning required—thanks to the island’s straightforward loop road and the easy-to-use public buses (one going clockwise, one going anticlockwise) that help families explore without stress.

They also talk about what to do beyond the beach. If your crew likes variety, Rarotonga offers quick access to activities and food options around the island, from hiking and trekking to 4WD safari-style adventures and cultural experiences you can reach easily. Culture is a major theme, and this episode encourages families to step beyond the resort bubble in a way that still feels comfortable: visiting villages, attending church services (especially on quiet Sundays), and experiencing the warm, welcoming nature of Cook Islands hospitality.

Aitutaki comes up as the “do not skip” extension, and Normand emphasizes a key planning point for families: don’t treat Aitutaki as a day trip—plan at least a couple of nights so you can slow down and actually enjoy the lagoon. The conversation also mentions that Aitutaki offers unique, bucket-list accommodation options in the Cook Islands, and that the lagoon itself is a major reason people fall in love with the destination. Finally, they discuss timing: while the Cook Islands are presented as a year-round destination, April through November is called out as prime time. When you’re ready to plan a trip that balances kid-friendly lagoon time, easy exploring, and a memorable island culture experience, start at https://farandawayadventures.com and let Far and Away Adventures build the right Cook Islands itinerary for your family.

In this episode we talk about how families can elevate their Fiji holiday—literally—with Island Hoppers’ helicopter tours and transfers. Host Normand Schafer explores how the company makes flying fun and safe for all ages, offering aerial views of coral reefs, waterfalls, and island chains that make lasting memories for kids and parents alike.

In this episode we talk about how InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa blends five-star service with family-friendly design. Host Normand Schafer uncovers how the Planet Trekkers kids’ club, family bures, and lagoon-side fun create unforgettable experiences for children and parents alike. It’s elegance, with room for exploration.

In this episode we talk about how Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa elevates family vacations with spacious villas, kids’ programs, and direct beach access. Host Normand Schafer explores how the resort blends high-end comfort with child-friendly activities, giving families the freedom to play and relax — all within a five-star setting.

In this episode we talk about how the Hexagon Group of Hotels makes it easy for families to enjoy Fiji without the high price tag. Host Normand Schafer highlights the family-friendly features of Grand West Villas and Tokatoka Resort, including spacious rooms, kid-safe pools, and locations near Nadi and the airport. If you’re traveling with little ones, teens, or grandparents, Hexagon’s got the comfort and flexibility to fit everyone.

In this episode we talk about why families are loving the high-energy, mud-splattered fun of Go Dirty Tours. Host Normand Schafer explores how the quad bike tours are designed with safety and storytelling in mind, making them perfect for parents and teens alike. From waterfall stops to cultural villages, this off-road adventure brings the whole family closer — one rev at a time.

In this episode we talk about why First Landing Resort is a top choice for families visiting Fiji. Host Normand Schafer explores the resort’s kid-friendly amenities, cultural activities, and beachfront villas that make traveling with children both fun and easy. With built-in adventure, comfort, and connection, First Landing is where Fijian history meets unforgettable family time.

In this episode we talk about the sacred landscapes of the Guaihanes region in Haida Gwaii, where the land itself feels alive with memory and story. Host Norman Shaffer is joined by Gidinjad of Skidegate Village to explore several historic Haida village sites, each echoing with the spiritual presence of ancestors and cultural continuity. From Windy Bay to Skedans and Skungway to Hot Springs Island, these ancient places offer profound lessons in healing, resilience, and the reverence of place. Gidinjad, a longtime Watchman and guide, shares his journey of rediscovery and cultural stewardship, reflecting on how welcoming visitors into these spaces is both an act of education and spiritual revival. Visit https://farandawayadventures.com to plan your expedition into the heart of Haida heritage. Discover more at Far and Away Adventures.com.

This powerful episode weaves oral tradition, lived experience, and deep emotional connection to the land. Learn how visitors from around the world come to these sites—some over 150 years old—to feel the legacy of mortuary poles, shell middens, and ancestral homes that still hum with energy. Discover the importance of protecting these sites not through preservation in glass, but by allowing them to return to the Earth with dignity. If you're seeking a transformational travel experience grounded in Indigenous knowledge and the raw beauty of nature, this episode offers both a guide and an invitation.

Visit https://farandawayadventures.com if you would like to book a trip to any of the places we discuss.

More information on Haida cultural sites: ⁠Haida cultural sites – Gwaii HaanasNational Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and HaidaHeritage Site

In this episode we talk about how Fiji Orchid offers families a peaceful but enriching retreat on Fiji’s Suncoast. Host Normand Schafer speaks with the resort team about the property’s lush gardens, local experiences, and why it’s a great choice for families seeking both quiet and connection. With nearby cultural sites and outdoor activities, it’s more than just relaxation — it’s an opportunity for parents and kids to recharge together.