In this episode, we talk about the South Pacific Tourism Organization (SPTO) with CEO Chris, taking a “travel the world” view of what’s changing across the Pacific and why the region deserves to be understood as many distinct destinations—not one. To plan a South Pacific journey with expert support, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and begin at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer invites Chris to explain SPTO’s role, and Chris describes the mandate as marketing and developing tourism sustainably for the region. He outlines membership across Polynesia, Micronesia, and Melanesia, and he also mentions Timor-Leste and Easter Island as members—details that remind listeners the Pacific story extends farther than many travelers realize. From the start, this episode asks world travelers to think differently: rather than searching for “the best Pacific island,” understand what each nation is, what it values, and how it wants to welcome visitors.

Chris describes one of the key issues SPTO addresses in global markets: people often think Pacific destinations are all the same. Normand responds that even within the same ocean region, the diversity of languages, culture, and traditions is huge. Chris explains that SPTO works with member countries to market the differences, because the differences are the reason to go, and they’re also the reason tourism must be developed carefully. That theme is reflected in SPTO’s strategic direction. Chris shares that three policy pillars drive the next five years: a Pacific sustainable tourism policy framework, a digital strategy, and a Pacific tourism statistic strategy. For travelers, those pillars mean destinations are thinking about sustainable growth, planning modernization through digital tools, and using better data to guide decisions.

The conversation then moves to recent history and current trends. Chris describes COVID as a major wake-up call that gave the region time to reflect and plan forward. He notes that leaders signed a statement of commitment to transition tourism to a more sustainable model moving forward, and he emphasizes how digitalization became a strong priority during that period. He also acknowledges challenges—particularly labor loss from tourism to other sectors and overseas—which can affect the rebuilding process and the visitor experience in practical ways. From there, Chris identifies a major strategic priority that impacts every itinerary: improving air connectivity into the region. Normand notes that connectivity can vary across island nations and can shift over time, affecting how travelers plan routes and combinations.

Normand asks how smaller destinations compete, and Chris explains that SPTO runs special promotions focusing on lesser-known places, particularly for short-haul markets Australia and New Zealand. He highlights “Treasures of the Pacific,” aimed at destinations that are undiscovered and not widely known. Chris also notes SPTO’s encouragement of niche tourism for smaller island states, emphasizing that fragile environments and oceans need protection. In the cruising context, he mentions the push toward more cruise expedition cruising as a travel style that can match small-island realities. When asked about presenting a unified brand, Chris explains the need to first identify where the region is globally for long-haul markets, then unite for cost-effective promotion and shared digital spending. He closes with a clear world-travel message: the Pacific is not all the same—come, enjoy it, and respect it. Far and Away Adventures can help you choose the right destinations and build an itinerary that matches real differences and real connectivity.

In this episode, we talk about Seventh Heaven Fiji, a floating restaurant and bar day trip that delivers a “travel the world” kind of story—gourmet bites, signature cocktails, ocean lounging, and reef views—and how to fit it into a Fiji itinerary with Far and Away Adventures.com (https://farandawayadventures.com). Normand Schafer interviews Casa from Seventh Heaven to answer the real traveler questions: What is it? How long are you out there? How do transfers work? What should you bring? And what makes this experience different from a standard tour?

Some destinations have must-see landmarks. Fiji has must-feel moments—and Seventh Heaven is described as one of those. Normand sets the scene: sunshine, turquoise water, reef around you, and the unique sensation of literally floating in the South Pacific while you relax, swim, and dine. Casa explains the concept in clear terms: Seventh Heaven is a floating restaurant and bar accessed by boat, positioned out in Fiji’s island waters.

Casa notes that general hotel pickups are part of what they advertise, and she mentions group booking pickup options. There’s also a note about pickup from the Marriott jetty for a minimum group size, intended to save time compared to longer routing through Denarau. Even seasoned travelers know the truth: the smoother the transfer, the more you enjoy the destination—so this portion of the conversation is about setting expectations and avoiding unnecessary friction.

Once you arrive, the venue itself creates options. Normand describes lounge areas and the feeling of a floating “villa” on the water. Casa shares that there’s a spa area on the platform where guests can book a single massage or a couple’s massage—often appealing for honeymooners who want a special, memorable touch. For travelers who want a splash of adrenaline, there’s also a jumping platform discussed as about 4.5 meters high. It’s an experience you can tailor: relax, swim, snorkel, jump, or simply watch the water shift colors around you.

Food and drink are covered in a straightforward way. Casa highlights the signature Seventh Heaven cocktail as a must-try for those who want it, and explains that they operate a full kitchen with chefs and an à la carte menu. The conversation mentions pizza and burgers, including wood-made pizzas, and it calls out kokoda as a traditional Fijian dish on the menu—an easy way to add a cultural taste moment to the day. The episode clarifies that food and drinks are paid upon consumption (separate pricing), which is essential for budgeting and deciding how you want your day to unfold.

The reef and sustainability discussion is one of the most meaningful parts of the episode. Casa describes being surrounded by coral reef and references a coral garden initiative started a couple of years prior, with the intention of supporting sustainability. Depending on the time of year, guests may participate in coral planting or focus on snorkeling access. She also explains a reef-protection rule: no fins are allowed for snorkeling, intended to reduce coral damage. For travelers who care about the world’s oceans—and for anyone who wants Fiji’s reef life to remain vibrant—those details matter.

Weather and packing tips round out the conversation. Casa describes Fiji as tropical and unpredictable, with advice based on the forecast, while also noting that sunshine can still appear out on the ocean even when the weather looks mixed. Normand adds the practical reminders: bring plenty of sunscreen, and consider bringing your own towel even if towel hire is available.

If you want to add Seventh Heaven Fiji to your travel-the-world list and make sure it fits perfectly into the trip you’re building, contact Far and Away Adventures.com (https://farandawayadventures.com). We’ll help you align resorts, transfers, and day trips so the experience feels effortless—and unforgettable.

In this episode, we talk about Solomon Airlines and how the national carrier helps travelers experience the Solomon Islands—one of those places that can make “travel the world” feel genuinely adventurous again. To plan your next journey with expert support, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and start at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer speaks with Jenny and Shandi from Solomon Airlines about what the airline is, how it connects a far-flung island nation to international gateways, and—just as importantly—how domestic routes help visitors reach multiple provinces and islands that many travelers never make it to.

The conversation breaks down the parts of travel that often decide whether a destination feels accessible: where flights go, how the network works, and what you can expect onboard. The guests discuss international routes mentioned and the international entry points discussed—Honiara and Munda—then explain why domestic connectivity matters for visitors who want to explore beyond one city. They describe the onboard experience as grounded in “Solomon Islands hospitality” and mention service details like included meals and beverages and legroom for comfort. They also discuss baggage allowances and note an additional allowance for sports equipment, which can support travelers bringing gear for adventure-focused trips.

Normand also asks about tourism growth and sustainability support. The guests describe partnerships and campaigns and emphasize that domestic routes create real travel options for tourists across the provinces. The travel advice offered is consistent and direct: go beyond Honiara. Shandi recommends using the network to visit other provinces and islands to experience the Solomon Islands in a deeper way. Jenny adds that talking with locals is one of the most meaningful parts of any trip—because beaches and scenery are wonderful, but human connection is what makes travel memorable.

To close, the guests highlight Malaita Province and Auki as a lesser-known destination within their network, describing it as culturally rich and distinct from more commonly discussed areas. If this episode sparks your curiosity and you want help turning it into a plan—routing, pacing, and the right island mix—Far and Away Adventures can help you design and book a Solomon Islands itinerary that feels smooth from start to finish.

In this episode, we talk about Serenity Island Resort and why it’s a smart choice for travelers who want an easy Fiji island escape with a relaxed, barefoot vibe—snorkeling off the beach, casual comfort in traditional bures, and a simple rhythm designed for real downtime. 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 your time, your energy level, and the style of resort you actually want. Normand Schafer is joined by Jess, Sales and Marketing Coordinator at Serenity Island Resort, who introduces Serenity as a 48-acre “one island, one resort” property. Jess describes it as three-and-a-half-star and intentionally relaxed—barefoot, rustic, and traditional Fijian rather than formal and five-star. She explains that accommodations are standalone traditional Fijian-style bures with air conditioning and private ensuites, and she notes there are 33 individual bures currently available. The conversation emphasizes how accessible Serenity is. Jess describes reaching the island via a short boat ride from Vuda Marina and also mentions an alternate route from Denarau using South Sea Cruises. That access makes Serenity appealing for travelers who want a weekend-style escape, a few nights to reset, or a simple island add-on without complicated transfers. Normand asks what a typical stay looks like, and Jess describes the opposite of stressful: wake up at your leisure, breakfast is included, then choose your own pace. She highlights pool time, beach time, and especially snorkeling—Jess says you can snorkel straight off the beaches where the reef drops down, and she describes beautiful coral and easy marine access. She also notes that non-motorized water sports are included, such as stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking, and that guests can walk or run around the island if they want a little movement without turning the day into a “big plan.” A standout feature is the turtle conservation program. Jess explains Serenity has three turtle pools and currently has baby turtles on site. She describes a release process when turtles reach around a year and a half old, adding a meaningful conservation story that many travelers appreciate as part of their Fiji experience. When Normand asks what guests most commonly say after visiting, Jess’s answer is consistent with the brand: very relaxed. She says Serenity isn’t trying to be a typical five-star resort; it’s a place where guests come to “flop and drop,” disconnect from busy life, and truly unwind. For travelers who want extra activities beyond the island, she mentions optional add-ons like arranging jet skis and helping guests visit Cloud 9 or Seventh Heaven. She also describes the island experience as enjoyable year-round. The episode ends with a major update for Fiji travelers: Serenity Sands glamping tents opening in September 2025. Jess describes 10 glamping tents designed for up to four people, with private decking, a king bed plus bunk beds, a private ensuite, and air conditioning. She also mentions planned beachfront amenities for the glamping area, including a pool, bar, restaurants, and barbecue facilities, with tents located right on the beach. If you want a Fiji stay that’s easy, relaxed, and water-forward—and you want help choosing between bures now or the new glamping experience in 2025—Far and Away Adventures can help you plan the right option and make the logistics seamless.

In this episode, we talk about discovering Samoa with Losa from the Samoa Tourism Authority, exploring why this destination is so compelling for travelers who want to “travel the world” in a way that feels meaningful, not just scenic. If you’re ready to plan, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and build your itinerary at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer and Losa discuss the Tourism Authority’s purpose—promoting Samoa and inviting visitors to experience its beauty—but the heart of the conversation is the feeling Samoa gives you: warmth, welcome, and the sense that culture is lived every day, not performed only for tourists. Losa describes Samoa as a place to slow down, find peace, relax, and feel rejuvenated, and she emphasizes that Samoa isn’t a mass tourism destination, which is exactly why it can feel so personal.

We dive into cultural experiences that help travelers connect beyond the beach. Losa recommends Fiafia Nights as a top cultural attraction, pairing local food with performances that include dancing and fire dancing. She also highlights cultural village tours that allow travelers to engage with carving, observe tattooing, and learn about tapa-making. The umu cooking process is a vivid detail: heated stones, fresh local ingredients, and leaves come together in a traditional style that produces a smoky, satisfying meal. Normand adds his own family-travel perspective, remembering how powerful it was for kids to learn hands-on skills—like traditional fire-starting—and dance with locals, turning a vacation into a shared human experience.

The episode also captures why Samoa’s identity stands out immediately. Losa notes that even the drive from the airport to town shows the landscape, villages, open-roof fale, and the matai chief system—cultural and community structures that are visible in daily life and hard to find elsewhere. From there, we talk timing. Losa shares that June through August is the busiest period. For travelers seeking a strong cultural calendar with fewer crowds, she points to September and mentions the Teuila Festival, night markets featuring singing and dancing, the Miss Samoa pageant and parade, and outrigger canoeing as a popular activity. She also reassures travelers that Samoa is beautiful year-round, with rainy and dry seasons rather than a narrow “perfect month only” window.

Responsible travel is part of the modern world travel, and Losa shares that the Samoa Tourism Authority supports waste management practices, runs awareness programs to reduce littering, and promotes solar energy approaches—steps toward sustainable tourism that matter for islands. To close, she recommends two unforgettable experiences: the To-Sua Trench and Piula Cave Pools. If this conversation sparks your next “where in the world should we go?” idea, Far and Away Adventures can help you design a Samoa itinerary that fits your style—culture-forward, relaxed, adventurous, or a blend—so your trip feels smooth and unforgettable.

In this episode, we talk about Savasi Island Resort and why Fiji’s north near Savusav,u can be one of the most rewarding places to experience the country beyond the usual resort corridors—lush, rural, naturally underdeveloped, and built for travelers who value privacy and exploration. If you’re planning Fiji and want help choosing the right region and resort style for your trip, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and connect with our team at https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer sits down with Christina Gerovvak, Sales Manager at Savasi Island Resort, and the conversation outlines who Savasi is ideal for and what guests experience from arrival to farewell. Christina explains that Savasi draws a strong couples market—especially honeymooners—along with some multi-generational travelers with older children who want to unwind, disconnect, and reconnect. The resort is positioned as total privacy in a lush reef-line setting, and Christina describes it as a place defined by an “element of surprise.” Guests can wander through dramatic volcanic rock pathways down to private stretches of beach, explore reef areas when tides are low, and discover new corners that feel different each time they walk. The island’s exploratory feel is reinforced by experiences like kayaking through inland waterways and kayaking out toward natural blowholes, making the adventure side of Savasi feel natural and intimate rather than extreme or crowded. A key part of the story is location and access. Savasi is in Fiji’s northern region near Savusavu, which Christina describes as lush, green, and more rural than the main arrival areas. She explains the transfer flow described in the episode: guests fly from Nadi into Savusavu, are met by staff at the airport, then take a short drive down the Hibiscus Highway. Christina also highlights an advantage that surprises many travelers: Savasi is connected to the mainland by a bridge. That connection can simplify transfers and also supports exploring the surrounding Savusavu region, which she notes is increasingly important to travelers who want to learn more about the destination beyond their resort. The episode also emphasizes that Savasi’s cultural connection is grounded in people. Christina explains that staff are from surrounding local villages, giving guests the opportunity to connect one-on-one and learn about Fijian life through real relationships. She mentions cultural evenings and a kava ceremony as ways guests learn about tradition on property, and she also notes the resort supports local sustainable businesses that showcase the unique character of the north. Normand asks what surprises guests most, and Christina provides a helpful expectation reset: Savasi isn’t known for one long, wide sandy beach the way people sometimes imagine Fiji. Instead, guests find multiple beach coves, lush greenery, volcanic features, and a natural, underdeveloped feel. She also mentions unique regional experiences that may include a pearl farm and a chocolate farm and factory. When asked about the best time to visit, Christina emphasizes that any time of year can be a great time for privacy and seclusion. Her first-timer advice is memorable: expect the unexpected, allow your body and mind to slow down into island rhythm, ask about the cave dining experience, and be prepared to shed a tear when leaving because guests often form genuine bonds. The most consistent guest feedback, Christina says, is that even well-traveled visitors remember Savasi for the warmth and heartfelt service—“you leave us friends.” If you want Fiji to feel like a discovery and connection, Far and Away Adventures can help you plan Savasi and Savusavu into an itinerary that flows smoothly.

In this episode, we talk about Palau with Deer from Fish ‘n Fins and Ocean Hunter, and it’s a travel story that reminds you the world still has places where nature is overwhelmingly in charge. Far and Away Adventures.com and https://farandawayadventures.com are mentioned at the start because destinations like Palau reward careful planning—especially if you want to align your trip with seasonal ocean events and choose between day boats and a liveaboard.

Deer explains why Palau is widely considered one of the world’s best dive destinations, describing a lineup that includes manta rays, sharks, major fish spawning aggregations, and more than 30 World War II wrecks. We talk about the iconic sites that anchor so many Palau dive itineraries—Blue Corner and German Channel—then move into what Deer calls the deeper attraction: spawning dives. He describes how large spawning events occur in relation to full and new moons, along with seasonal windows such as a Moorish idol spawning period described for certain months that can draw significant shark activity. He emphasizes that shark feeding is forbidden in Palau and that what divers see is natural behavior in a rich, protected environment.

We also talk about how people experience Palau. Deer describes Fish ‘n Fins as a full-service operation with a large fleet built to make dive days comfortable, and he introduces Ocean Hunter as a cozy liveaboard with eight cabins for up to 16 guests—small enough to feel personal, but capable of reaching the best sites efficiently. He also points to the idea that Palau is bigger than its most famous sites, mentioning northern dive areas that are less visited but have produced remarkable manta sightings.

A major thread is conservation. Deer describes plastic cleanups, awareness programs, and an annual Shark Week that has been running for decades and includes education for local students about why sharks matter. He references Palau’s shark sanctuary reputation and the broader protected marine zone mindset that supports healthy reefs. For planning, he recommends aligning dates with moon phases and tides if you want spawning opportunities and notes the experience threshold and diver-number limits described for certain spawning dives to reduce disturbance. If you want to travel the world in a way that brings you face-to-face with thriving ocean ecosystems, Palau belongs on your list—and Far and Away Adventures.com (https://farandawayadventures.com) can help you plan it.

In this episode, we talk about Return to Paradise in Samoa and what it looks like to travel the world in a way that’s both inspiring and grounded—iconic scenery paired with real cultural connection. For planning help that turns ideas into a workable itinerary, start at Far and Away Adventures.com and visit https://farandawayadventures.com. Normand Schafer interviews Raz from Return to Paradise about why this beach became globally recognized through a Hollywood film shot here in the 1950s, and what continues to draw travelers today: dramatic coastline, lush surroundings, and the feeling of being hosted by people who are connected to the land in a personal way.

We explore what travelers can expect at the resort and why it can work for a wide range of trip styles, from romantic escapes to family vacations and celebration travel. Raz explains that the resort is part of their village and a family project, which shapes the guest experience and the sense of welcome. Normand’s questions focus on the bigger “travel the world” perspective: how do you arrive in a new place and do more than simply consume the scenery? How do you understand what matters to the people who live there?

That’s where the cultural conversation becomes the heart of the episode. Raz describes a weekly village walk where guests can learn about daily life, home structure, and traditions that help travelers see Samoa as a living culture rather than a resort backdrop. Normand adds a practical note about Samoa’s evening prayer time around 7:00 p.m. and how simple awareness can help you travel respectfully when you’re outside the resort. These moments often become the stories you tell later—because they’re about people, not just views.

We also discuss excursions and nearby activities that help round out a trip: mentions include a turtle sanctuary, a giant clam tour, waterfalls, and other island highlights that can be added at a comfortable pace. Normand calls out Sliding Rock as a memorable stop. If you want your Samoa trip to feel like a true “world travel” experience—balanced, meaningful, and easy to navigate—Far and Away Adventures can help you shape the itinerary and handle the details so you can focus on discovery.

In this episode, we talk about Royal Davui Island Resort and why it offers a rare kind of travel experience: an adults-only private island in Fiji where romance, seclusion, and quiet luxury aren’t just themes—they’re the foundation of the resort’s design. If you’re planning a trip to Fiji and want help building a honeymoon or anniversary itinerary that feels effortless and deeply restorative, 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, to explore what makes the resort feel so intimate compared to larger properties. Grant explains that Royal Davui was built with romance in mind and that privacy and seclusion are key highlights. He describes how guests often don’t even realize they have neighbors between villas, and emphasizes that Royal Davui is the only resort on the island—creating a true private island experience. Grant shares the island is about 10 acres and can be walked around in roughly 30 minutes, and that the resort remains intentionally small with 16 villas total and a maximum of 32 guests at any time. Each villa includes a private plunge pool, offering couples their own personal space to relax in fresh water, while the surrounding lagoon and ocean provide swimming and excellent snorkeling right off the jetty. Normand asks how the resort encourages relaxation and intimacy, and Grant explains that guests can choose their own pace: be as adventurous or as lazy as you want. He describes a wide range of activities available through the resort—Hobie Cat sailing, kayaks, paddle boards, jet skis, resort fishing, diving, and more—balanced by slow days by the pool, a glass of rosé, and authentic Fijian hospitality. One of the most memorable highlights is the signature sand cay beach picnic. Grant explains that the resort takes one couple at a time and drops them on a pristine sand cay that appears only at low tide, setting them up with bean bags, umbrellas, and a picnic lunch, and leaving them there for about three hours. He emphasizes the privacy of the experience by noting there are no cruise ships and no day visitors—just you and your spouse on your own private sand cay. Grant also shares that he lives on the island and meets guests on arrival, along with his husband who founded the island, which adds a personal, hosted feel to the stay. Beyond romance, the resort also offers meaningful cultural connection. Grant highlights visiting a neighboring village on Beqa Island, where guests can see the school and community life and attend a church service to hear beautiful Fijian singing—an authentic experience many couples find deeply moving. Seasonality is discussed with Grant noting that May through September tends to be busier, often aligning with honeymoon and anniversary travel patterns, but he emphasizes there is no bad time to visit Fiji and calls it a year-round destination with beautiful weather and warm water temperatures, even when rain passes through. Normand asks what guests say after they return home, and Grant shares a recurring theme: “recharging the soul,” including a story of a guest who arrived depleted and left transformed over seven nights. If you’re looking for a romantic Fiji escape that feels private, restorative, and truly special, this episode will help you understand why Royal Davui stands out—and Far and Away Adventures can help you plan the perfect couples itinerary around it.

In this episode, we talk about Niue with Sarah from Niue Tourism—how this small Pacific island delivers some of the most memorable nature experiences anywhere in the South Pacific. To plan your trip with help, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and start here:
https://farandawayadventures.com

Some destinations earn a spot on a “travel the world” list because they’re famous. Niue earns it because it’s different. Normand Schafer is joined by Sarah from Niue Tourism, who introduces Niue as the Rock of Polynesia and describes it as a rare raised coral island. She notes the population is around 1,500, and that small scale shows up in the warmth visitors feel. It’s the kind of place where you can quickly feel known, not processed—and that can be priceless in a world where many destinations feel increasingly crowded.

Niue’s uniqueness starts with its geology. Sarah explains that being a raised rock means Niue has no rivers or streams. Instead, the ocean becomes the defining feature, and she emphasizes just how clear it can be—visibility up to 70 meters. That number isn’t just a brag; it changes what you can do day to day. Snorkeling and diving become effortless ways to connect with the place. You’re not chasing one “perfect beach day”; you’re building a routine of salt water, reef edges, and underwater views that feel unusually crisp.

Whales are another global-level reason to choose Niue. Sarah explains that humpback whales migrate up from Antarctica, typically arriving around July and staying through October. She calls August and September the best months for swimming with whales, and she emphasizes a key point that makes Niue stand out: the swims are highly regulated. Small groups, limited guides, limited licenses, and a deliberate choice not to increase the number of people in the water beyond what’s good for the whales—especially when calves are present. That approach protects the experience and the animals, but it also means demand can exceed supply. Sarah notes that prime months can book out well in advance, and Normand asks the obvious follow-up: how far ahead? Sarah answers that people are booking for the next year. If whales are on your bucket list, you plan early—or you risk missing the best window.

Niue also offers whale magic even if you never get in the water. Sarah explains that the raised rock coastline means the water drops away quickly, allowing land-based whale watching opportunities. Her story about being woken up at night by the sound of whale tail slaps—mistaken for a door slamming—makes it easy to picture how close the ocean life can feel.

Sarah says there’s no public transport and no buses, and the island loops around about 64 kilometers. To explore properly, you need a rental car. The good news is that driving is easy, roads are good, and signposts help you find the sea tracks. Normand agrees that transportation is what turns Niue into “the whole island is your resort”—because you can reach different coastal spots on your own schedule.

Culturally, Niue is described as a place where you arrive a visitor and leave a friend. Sarah mentions community activities like weaving groups, golf, and bowls club as simple, natural ways to connect. Timing-wise, she says there’s always something on offer, but notes December and January can be more humid and choppier, and that some businesses slow down for family time in the off season. March through November is described as popular, with fishing also mentioned (including wahoo around April). For first-time visitors, Sarah recommends doing an island tour on your first morning, then self-exploring confidently—and she urges travelers not to miss Aiki Cave, accessible at low tide and described as a favorite place in the world. If you’re ready to add Niue to your travel-the-world list, Far and Away Adventures can help you time it right, pace it well, and make the logistics easy—especially if whale season is part of the dream.