What if paradise felt like home?

In this episode, Normand checks into Niu Beach Hotel, one of Moorea’s newest boutique lagoon-front properties, with Sylvia Martino. Located on the quiet west coast of the island, Niu Beach Hotel offers calm waters, stunning sunsets, and a peaceful atmosphere far removed from large resorts.

Sylvia shares how the hotel was designed with just 16 spacious bungalows—each with a kitchen—to give guests independence, comfort, and flexibility. We discuss why this concept appeals to families, couples, and travelers seeking a quieter, more authentic Moorea experience, and how local staff and cultural connections play an important role in the guest experience.

If you’re planning a trip to French Polynesia and want a stay that balances modern comfort with island tranquility, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we talk about what makes Moorea’s lagoon experiences so unforgettable through an on-location interview with Nico from Moorea Water Games at the Sofitel Nautical Center. If you want help planning a French Polynesian itinerary that flows—right resorts, right islands, and the right lagoon days—visit Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com. This conversation is a practical look at how a great operator balances guest experience, safety, and reef protection in one of the most iconic settings in the South Pacific.

Normand opens with the big question: what makes this lagoon so magical? The electric-blue color, the friendly stingrays, the mix of water sports with those dramatic green peaks in the background—Moorea has a way of making the ocean feel both wild and welcoming. Nico introduces Moorea Water Games as a nautical center based inside the Sofitel resort, facing a lagoon area they consider one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. From the start, you can sense the point of view: this isn’t about rushing through a checklist. It’s about choosing a place that consistently delivers clarity, coral, and marine life—and building a tour that lets people actually enjoy it.

You’ll hear how the business evolved. Nico explains that when he took over the nautical center years ago, they focused on rentals like kayaking and paddleboarding. But spending time in the lagoon revealed how rich the underwater world was, so he decided to introduce something different—small-boat, small-group snorkeling using sea scooters. The goal was to create an experience that stays uncrowded, keeps the pace comfortable, and makes snorkeling doable for a wider range of guests.

A key part of the episode is accessibility. Nico describes the sea scooter as a tool that brings all levels together, including beginners and non-swimmers, especially when combined with full-face masks. Normand adds a real-world observation: on this outing, the group had mixed confidence levels, and the guiding approach kept everyone calm and supported. That’s an important planning insight for couples, families, and multi-generation trips where not everyone wants (or can handle) the same intensity.

Marine life is a big reason people come, and the episode highlights what guests often love most: colorful reef fish, stingrays, and the chance of seeing turtles at a cleaning station—Nico’s “turtle spa.” He also mentions that the ocean can surprise you; some days bring unexpected sightings like nurse sharks or barracuda, and in the past, even the possibility of a humpback encounter underwater. Nothing is promised, but the takeaway is that each day can be different, which is part of the magic.

The conversation also leans into responsible tourism. Nico explains that the lagoon area is described as a marine reserve with rules like no anchoring, and that local authorities limit the number of boats and activities to reduce pressure on the ecosystem. Their team adds a safety briefing before every departure that includes reef etiquette—no stepping on coral, staying with the guide, and moving carefully in shallow zones. Normand reinforces why this matters: coral takes a long time to grow, and damage can take years to recover.

If you’re weighing what to do in Moorea, this episode makes a clear case for experiences that are small-group, guide-led, and designed to protect the lagoon while still delivering those “wow” moments. When you’re ready to connect Moorea with the right flights, transfers, resort choices, and island rhythm, reach out through Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com and let a specialist help you build a French Polynesia trip that feels effortless—so you can spend your energy in the water, not in the logistics.

In this episode we talk about how Breakas Beach Resort combines barefoot luxury with Vanuatu’s untamed beauty. Host Normand Schafer explores the resort’s location on Efate’s surfable coastline, where jungle meets ocean. Learn about the handcrafted fares, on-site cultural experiences, and why this adults-only hideaway has earned a cult following among adventure-lovers seeking calm.

In this episode we talk about how Bountiful Tours and Transfers helps travelers uncover the real Vanuatu — far beyond the cruise terminal or hotel. Host Normand Schafer explores how their locally run tours give visitors deep access to cultural sites, off-the-grid beaches, and authentic community experiences. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, this is your path to a deeper connection.

In this episode we talk about how Authentic Mala Tours takes travelers far from tourist zones and deep into the cultural heart of Vanuatu. Host Normand Schafer learns how Mele Village opens its doors through music, food, and custom ceremonies — providing a raw, real, and respectful glimpse into traditional Ni-Vanuatu life. This is off-the-beaten-path adventure at its most authentic.

In this episode we talk about the untapped beauty of American Samoa, a place where adventure and culture meet in the most unexpected ways. Host Normand Schafer explores how American Samoa is a haven for explorers seeking to go beyond the usual South Pacific stops. Whether it’s discovering volcanic craters or meeting indigenous Samoan communities, this destination promises off-the-beaten-path experiences like no other.

In this episode we talk about how Air Niugini opens the door to one of the planet’s most remote and thrilling destinations — Papua New Guinea. Host Normand Schafer discusses with the airline team how their network brings travelers into tribal regions, rugged jungles, and off-the-grid islands with surprising comfort. Learn how this national carrier connects you to places where adventure begins the moment you land.

In this episode we talk about how the Agnes Gateway Hotel is more than just a place to sleep — it’s a launch point for unforgettable South Pacific exploration. Host Normand Schafer uncovers the hidden treasures of the Solomon Islands' Western Province, including WWII dive sites, remote islands, and untouched coral reefs. Discover how this humble waterfront hotel connects you to a world few tourists ever see.

In this episode we talk about how adventurous travelers can experience the full spectrum of the Cook Islands. Host Normand Schafer explores with Daniel from Cook Islands Tourism how to go beyond the main islands to hidden gems like Pukapuka, Manihiki, and Tongareva. Whether it’s hiking volcanic peaks, exploring coral reefs, or joining the famous Progressive Dinner for authentic cultural connection, this episode is your guide to the wild heart of the South Pacific.

In this episode we talk about the captivating beauty of White Grass Ocean Resort, where luxury meets rugged island exploration. We hear stories about diving in underwater caves, visiting local villages, and watching the volcano glow at night. Lindell joins Norman Schaeffer to reveal how this eco-friendly resort connects guests with the culture, nature, and spirit of Vanuatu.