In this episode, we talk about “where to go next” when you’ve already heard of the headline islands—and you want something rarer, quieter, and more culturally rooted. Normand visits Rapa in the Austral Islands of French Polynesia with Roti M, and Far and Away Adventures.com (https://farandawayadventures.com) sponsors this episode focused on depth over volume.

Rapa is a small community of about 500 people, and that scale shapes everything: how visitors are welcomed, how traditions are preserved, and why tourism must remain moderate. We explore what makes the culture feel so immediate—children performing in the village, drumming and dance that’s powerful and moving, and a strong practice of singing together as a form of social connection.

You’ll also hear about how people live day to day: local plantations and gardens for staple foods, limited salary jobs, and a reliance on shipments for many goods and building materials. Even sand is imported to support road-building and cement work, which highlights the logistics and fragility of remote-island life.

A major theme is protection. Roti explains the importance of communal land, indigenous land rights, and customary organization in keeping the community united—and why too much tourism can separate families and strain social bonds. We also discuss a specific environmental threat: introduced pine trees spreading into hillsides and potentially covering historic areas and changing the way people see their island.

If you’re deciding where to go next in French Polynesia, this episode offers a thoughtful lens: pick places that match your values, and travel in a way that strengthens—not weakens—the destination. For help mapping a French Polynesian itinerary that fits your goals and respects local capacity, connect with Far and Away Adventures.com (https://farandawayadventures.com).

In this episode, we talk about why New Caledonia might be the “next destination” you didn’t realize you were looking for—especially if you want a South Pacific trip with variety, cultural depth, and unforgettable lagoon scenery. For planning help, visit Far and Away Adventures.com and start here:
https://farandawayadventures.com

If you’ve been wondering where to go next in the South Pacific, this conversation offers a clear, compelling answer: consider New Caledonia. Normand Schafer speaks with Philippe from New Caledonia Tourism, who explains the destination’s identity as both French and Oceanian—combining French influence with the living traditions of the Kanak people. Philippe also describes New Caledonia Tourism’s role in promoting the archipelago internationally under the brand “New Caledonia: Pacific Heart.”

So what makes New Caledonia a smart “next trip” choice? Diversity. Philippe emphasizes that the destination offers dramatic lagoon and mangrove scenery and preserved nature on land, along with multiple regions that each feel different. That range can be especially attractive if you want a trip that isn’t just one kind of beach day repeated—New Caledonia can deliver scenic water time, cultural connection, and road-trip freedom in the same itinerary.

We highlight experiences that can quickly define your trip. Philippe recommends sailing in Upi Bay, where rock formations rise out of the lagoon, and the landscape feels instantly iconic. He also suggests a scenic flight over the Heart of Voh, an aerial view of a heart shape naturally formed in the mangroves. These are the kinds of signature moments that make a destination feel “worth the flight” and help you plan days that stand out.

Normand shares his own travel memory of the Isle of Pines (Île des Pins), and Philippe explains why it’s often called the jewel of the Pacific. The island is known for pristine beaches and a calm atmosphere away from mass tourism. A standout stop is the Natural Swimming Pool—a sheltered snorkeling spot where you can enjoy coral and fish in calm water that feels like a natural lagoon pool.

We also talk about how to structure a trip so it feels smooth. Philippe recommends New Caledonia as a self-drive destination: rent a car, follow the coastline, and take advantage of a well-developed road network on the main island. Then he shares one of the most important planning points in the episode: don’t stay only on the main island. Add at least one outer island via domestic flight to experience the destination’s full variety. Normand mentions Lifou as an example of the outer-island options, reinforcing that each outer island brings a different feel.

Timing can influence what you do, and Philippe notes New Caledonia’s generally temperate conditions. For outdoor-focused travelers, he suggests September and October as shoulder-season months with comfortable temperatures and less rain. And his “hidden gem” isn’t a secret location—it’s a travel strategy: slow down. He encourages visitors to relax, be curious, and plan enough time (minimum 10 days, if possible) to truly enjoy what makes New Caledonia special.

If New Caledonia sounds like your “where to go next,” Far and Away Adventures can help you choose the right island mix, set the right pace, and plan a trip that feels effortless and memorable from beginning to end.

In this episode, we talk about Rivers Tubing Fiji and why the Navua River can be the answer to “Where should we go next on Viti Levu if we want something beyond the resort?” If you’re planning a trip to Fiji and want help choosing experiences that fit your location and schedule, 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, about an experience that blends nature, culture, and adventure into one day. William explains that the tour begins with resort pickups and a boat departure at 10:00 a.m., followed by an upriver journey about 17 kilometers through the gorge, passing waterfalls and navigating rapids. The river journey ends at a remote village that is only accessible by boat. William explains why that matters: the Navua River is the village’s lifeline for transport to market, school, hospital, and daily life. That reality shapes the tone of the visit, and William emphasizes that the company aims to support the community without changing village life for tourism. Guests walk through the village to observe everyday living—fishing, weaving, farming—rather than being presented with staged performances. After the village, the tour returns downstream to a waterfall stop with a short walk in, where guests can swim at a waterfall William names as Wai ni Kavika. Then guests enjoy a riverside lunch on the riverbank, with a buffet that blends familiar foods like barbecue-style chicken, lamb sausages, and bread with traditional dishes such as fish in coconut cream. William also shares that guides collect fiddlehead ferns from the forest and boil them in front of guests, adding a memorable local ingredient moment. After lunch, the tubing portion begins with another safety briefing and life jackets. William describes smaller rapids early on and larger rapids later, with guest choice built in: opt into bigger rapids or ride in the boat. He also notes the tour can include very young children in the calmer sections with parents on larger tubes and guides assisting, and then children are moved into the boat before bigger rapids. The episode includes a key planning point: where you stay affects how easy it is to fit this day into your trip. William notes that Nadi/Denarau guests often have very early pickups (around 6:30 a.m.) and a long, packed day—he describes it as about 12 hours from Nadi—while Coral Coast and Pacific Harbour guests have later pickups and shorter transit. Seasonality is discussed as well, with wet season (typically November through April) often bringing higher water and stronger rapids, though the tour operates year-round. William also shares a moment that many guests remember most: near the end, in a calm gorge section, the guides sing and the echo fills the canyon and jungle—a “magical” finale that captures the spirit of Fiji. If you’re choosing where to go next for an unforgettable Viti Levu day, Rivers Tubing Fiji is a standout, and Far and Away Adventures can help you plan it into the perfect spot in your itinerary.

In this episode, we talk about Rimatara in the Austral Islands of French Polynesia and why it might be exactly where to go next if you’re craving a destination that feels personal, safe, and genuinely welcoming. If you want help deciding which islands fit your style—and how to connect them smoothly—start with Far and Away Adventures.com and plan at https://farandawayadventures.com. Rimatara is a powerful “next” choice for travelers who want to step away from the most common routes without giving up culture and nature.

Normand Schafer is on the island with Nila, who shares a personal path to living here after moving from Bora Bora. Her reason quickly becomes a traveler’s guide to what makes Rimatara different: more nature, fewer cars, fruit available easily, and the ability to grow what you need on your own property or farm. If you’ve been wondering “where next” after you’ve done the famous places—or if you want a trip that feels calmer from the start—this kind of island lifestyle can be the answer.

A key “where next” factor is how a community feels. Nila describes raising children on Rimatara as easier because everyone is “family-ish,” and people look out for each other. That kind of social environment can change your travel experience dramatically. Instead of anonymity, you may find connection. Instead of rushing, you may find rhythm. Normand’s conversation highlights how welcome and hospitality can become the souvenir you carry home.

Logistics are another deciding factor. Rimatara remains lightly visited because access is limited, and Nila explains the options are constrained by flight schedules and rare ship visits. That means traveler numbers stay low, and accommodations remain small-scale with only two guest houses. If you need a destination with endless hotels and last-minute freedom, Rimatara may not be the best “next” step. But if you want a place where quiet is protected by reality—and where hosting is personal—this is exactly the kind of island to consider.

Once you arrive, Nila suggests an island tour as the foundation: discover the land and understand the scale. From there, cultural connection is the real reason to come. She points to religious parties, dance, and singing, and highlights the annual “Hava” festival in July with village performances across multiple days, including sports like stone lifting. These are experiences that can shape not only what you do next, but how you think about travel itself.

Nature adds more reasons: birdwatching for the colorful “ʻura,” lagoon time, fishing, and seafood gathering that is shared within the community. It’s not a destination of constant thrills; it’s a destination of quiet depth.

If Rimatara is calling you as your next stop in French Polynesia, Far and Away Adventures can help you map out a realistic route and choose the right timing so the trip stays smooth and satisfying. Start with Far and Away Adventures.com and plan at https://farandawayadventures.com.

In this episode, we talk about Nauru as a compelling answer to “where to go next?”—a rare Pacific destination with WWII remnants, a phosphate mining legacy, great ocean atmosphere, and easy local connection. Far and Away Adventures.com is where to start planning, and you can begin at https://farandawayadventures.com.

If you’ve already visited the well-known Pacific islands and you’re asking “where to go next?” the most exciting answer may be the one you’ve barely heard of. That’s what makes Nauru so compelling. Normand Schafer speaks with Kramer from Nauru Tourism about a country that remains one of the least visited in the Pacific and, as Kramer describes it, one that has only recently opened the doors to tourism in a more intentional way. The result is a destination that can feel like true discovery—less scripted, less crowded, and more connected to everyday life.

Kramer explains that Nauru is new to the tourism business and is pursuing small-scale, sustainable tourism aligned with national strategy. For travelers looking for “next-level” experiences, that’s often a positive signal: you’re not stepping into a destination that’s been optimized for mass tourism.

The episode’s most memorable detail is the island’s scale. Kramer says you can drive around the entire country in about 22 minutes and walk around it in less than four hours. That makes Nauru an unusually satisfying “where to go next” choice for travelers who like to truly understand a destination’s layout—who enjoy the feeling of comprehending a whole place rather than sampling a corner of it.

History is one of the reasons Nauru belongs on a “go next” list. Kramer points to a plateau in the island’s interior where remnants from World War II remain from a period of Japanese occupation. He describes bunkers and relics still present, giving travelers a tangible connection to global events. For history buffs, this can be a profound experience—quiet, real, and surprisingly moving because of the contrast between the island’s small size and the weight of what happened there.

Another major storyline is phosphate mining. Kramer describes phosphate as a key part of Nauru’s history and notes that the mining era once made Nauru extremely wealthy per capita. He also acknowledges environmental impacts, framing the mining story as both a period of prosperity and a lesson in consequence. Travelers who care about understanding places—not just consuming them—often find this kind of layered narrative deeply rewarding. Kramer also contrasts the interior areas associated with mining history with the outer rim where vegetation remains, reinforcing that the landscape itself helps tell the story.

Kramer highlights fishing around the island and emphasizes Nauru’s Pacific setting. Even if you’re not traveling specifically to fish, being surrounded by ocean creates a nature-first feeling that can make a trip feel like a genuine reset. He also mentions the simple comfort of sea breezes and the “pristine water” vibe that travelers often associate with remote Pacific islands.

Cultural connection is described as easy and spontaneous. Kramer says there’s one road around the island and people are friendly and engaging—often initiating conversation, asking where you’re from, and offering to show you what to do. That kind of effortless human connection can be the thing that makes Nauru feel like the “right next destination” rather than just a rare stamp in a passport.

We also talk planning realities: accommodations are limited, with only a small number of hotels and motels referenced, so availability matters. Kramer notes that Nauru Airlines is the route into the island and that routing mentions can make Nauru part of a broader Pacific itinerary. If Nauru is calling your name as your next destination, connect with a Far and Away Adventures specialist. We’ll help you build a plan that fits your timing, routing needs, and the kind of experience you want to have once you land.

In this episode, we talk about “where to go next” in Fiji if you want a destination that feels deeply island—remote enough to reset your pace, active enough to keep you engaged, and personal enough that you remember the people as clearly as the scenery. Far and Away Adventures.com is where you can start planning with expert support, and you can explore more at https://farandawayadventures.com. Host Normand Schaefer is joined by Sava, Assistant Resort Manager at Mantaray Island Resort, whose 17-year story in the Yasawa Islands offers a powerful lens for choosing your next Fiji region and planning it well.

Sava shares that she came from Fiji’s main island and joined Mantaray as her first job in the tourism industry. She describes the beginning as a trial—learning a new role and adjusting to a very different environment—before falling in love with the place. Starting in the reservations and front office, she built knowledge and confidence over time, gained responsibilities, and ultimately became Assistant Resort Manager. That kind of long-term presence matters when deciding where to go next, because it suggests an experience shaped by people who truly know the destination’s rhythm and who can guide guests through it with confidence and care.

The conversation explores what changes when you choose the Yasawas. Normand asks how living there shaped her compared to urban life, and Sava emphasizes that the biggest difference is the living conditions and remoteness. She shares that missing family and adapting to fewer conveniences were real challenges at first, and that over time she found peace and belonging in the islands—especially through her husband’s Yasawa roots. For travelers deciding where to go next, this offers a clear takeaway: choose the Yasawas when you want to slow down and feel the calm that comes from being away from city infrastructure. If you’re expecting nightlife and constant entertainment, you may feel the difference. If you’re seeking serenity and a quieter daily rhythm, you’ll feel at home quickly.

Normand asks what guests often ask her, and Sava says people wonder how you “survive” on the island—an honest reflection of how remote it can feel. She explains that staff aren’t on holiday, but even during busy days, the scenery and serenity provide peace of mind. She contrasts city commuting with island life, where she can wake up and walk to work while taking in views that guests often consider extraordinary. That image is a useful decision tool: where you go next in Fiji should match the experience you want—either convenience-driven or calm-driven.

From the experience side, 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 as a defining feature, reflecting what guests consistently talk about in their feedback. Over 17 years, she has seen major changes—upgraded accommodations, improved facilities, additions like a pool, and expanded dining spaces—showing how the resort has evolved while maintaining an island lifestyle feel.

Community connection is another deciding factor. Sava explains that staffing includes recruitment from multiple nearby villages, contributing local employment and strengthening ties across the region. For first-time Yasawa visitors, her advice is straightforward: don’t miss Mantaray if you’re heading into the islands because there’s plenty to do—snorkeling, diving, and weekly activity schedules that help you plan your stay. Some travelers arrive with everything planned, others arrive with nothing planned and a sense of adventure, and she says the team supports both. If you’re deciding where to go next in Fiji, episode suggests a clear answer: go where the people, pace, and place align—and let Far and Away Adventures help you design the route and timing that fits your travel style.

In this episode, we talk about a “next destination” that’s truly different: Rurutu in the Austral Islands of French Polynesia—remote, peaceful, and rooted in community life. If you’re considering where to go next and want help matching the right destination to your travel style, begin with Far and Away Adventures.com and connect at https://farandawayadventures.com. This episode is designed to help you decide if a place like Rurutu is right for you—and how to approach it with the right mindset.

Normand Schafer records from the island with Tev Avata, who describes Rurutu as home and explains what it means to live in a small community where the land and sea still shape daily routines. Rurutu is introduced as pristine, with caves to explore and whales offshore in season, but the deeper story is how the island functions beyond tourism. Tev talks about living day by day, about habits shaped over a lifetime, and about how people relate to the environment not as an “activity,” but as a foundation.

One of the most useful parts of this episode for travelers deciding where to go next is the clarity around scale. Tev explains that fishing is often for personal benefit—not for selling or making riches—and that many locals identify as “people of the earth.” That’s a cue: if you want nightlife, crowds, and constant options, Rurutu may not be your match. But if you want calm, authenticity, and the chance to experience a place that isn’t built around mass tourism, you’ll understand why Normand is drawn here.

The episode also explores change and preservation. Normand asks what visitors can do to avoid harming what they came to enjoy. Tev acknowledges the complexity—“evolution”—including the shift from horses to cars over time. The travel lesson is important: choosing where to go next isn’t just about beauty; it’s about responsibility. Small islands feel the impact of visitors quickly, so the best trips are those built around moderation, respect, and realistic expectations.

Whale season is another decision point. Rurutu is known for whale encounters, and Tev describes the experience as something you need to feel to understand. But he also shares his personal choice not to swim with whales as a sign of respect and reflects on changes he believes he has noticed over time. If wildlife experiences are a key reason you travel, this episode helps you approach them thoughtfully—recognizing that your behavior can influence animal behavior and the future of the destination.

Adventure travelers will also note the cave hike Tev calls “the cave of the monster,” described as fascinating and demanding, requiring mental and physical readiness plus proper footwear. That’s another clue for “where next”: Rurutu can be rewarding, but it isn’t a destination to underestimate.

If you’re considering the Austral Islands as your next step beyond the usual French Polynesia routes, Far and Away Adventures can help you connect the right islands, timing, and travel style—whether you prefer island-hopping, small-ship travel, or a focused stay. Start at Far and Away Adventures.com and plan at https://farandawayadventures.com.

In this episode, we talk about the Marshall Islands as your “next” Pacific destination—what makes it culturally unique, what travelers do there, and how to plan smart around events and limited hotels. Far and Away Adventures.com is your planning starting point, and you can begin at https://farandawayadventures.com.

Far and Away Adventures
https://farandawayadventures.com

If you’re asking “where to go next?” and you want something that still feels undiscovered, the Republic of the Marshall Islands deserves a serious look. In this episode, Normand Schafer speaks with Lori Loretta De Bru from the Marshall Islands Tourism Office about what makes the Marshall Islands a road-less-traveled destination for travelers seeking nature, community connection, and authentic culture.

Lori explains that the Marshall Islands’ handicrafts—especially woven creations—are a key differentiator from other Pacific island destinations. These crafts aren’t just pretty objects; they signify identity. We talk about how visitors can engage directly through cultural activities on the main island: weaving a basket, husking a coconut, and creating wearable crafts like necklaces, flowers, or earrings. It’s a reminder that “next-level” travel often means participation, not just observation.

The islands are also built for ocean-minded travelers. Because the Marshall Islands include 24 atolls spread widely across the ocean, water activities become a natural centerpiece. Lori highlights sportfishing as a major draw and mentions surfing options, including a surf resort on a remote outer island run by an Australian entrepreneur. Whether you’re a diver, a history buff, or someone looking for a quieter Pacific experience, this destination offers a blend that feels refreshingly real.

Storytelling is an important theme, too. Lori shares that storytelling helps define Marshallese identity and that many products and traditions carry unique stories shaped across time, including connections influenced by the World War II era through the present. We also discuss how travelers can support local communities by joining beach cleanups coordinated with relevant local stakeholders—a practical sustainability activity that lets visitors contribute.

Then we get into “where to go next” planning realities. Lori highlights major annual events like fishing tournaments and derbies in July and cultural activities in September, while noting that there are events throughout the year. Her key advice for first-timers: plan around the calendar because hotel room availability can be limited. She points listeners to the “Visit Marshall Islands” Facebook page for event updates and notes her office as a point of contact for visitor information.

Marshall Islands Tourism Office contact
https://rmiocit.org

If this sounds like your next destination, a Far and Away Adventures specialist can help you decide the right timing, shape the right mix of experiences, and build a plan that’s realistic, well-paced, and unforgettable.