Zero Travel Regrets: Norm Steve's Armchair Travel Journeys

In this episode we talk about travel that doesn’t require a plane ticket to feel real. Haida watcher and guide Gidinjad shares a 35-year journey serving ancestral villages with Norman Shaffer—telling stories of spirits, poles, and healing oceans. If you want to truly listen to the land, visit https://farandawayadventures.com . Gidinjad shares raw reflections: of a child drumming ancestral songs, o...

In this episode we talk about the scent of orchids in the breeze, a secluded bure under the palms, and the distant hum of the South Pacific. Host Normand Schafer takes you on a sensory journey to Fiji Orchid, weaving stories of Raymond Burr, slow mornings, and evenings under the stars. It’s armchair travel at its most elegant.

In this episode we talk about the UNESCO village site of SG̱ang Gwaay in Haida Gwaii with Haida Watchman Teresa Russ, and Norm takes a quiet, reflective journey into a world of cedar poles, ocean whispers, and ancestral power—from the comfort of his armchair. Begin your virtual exploration at https://farandawayadventures.com . Full episode content at Far and Away Adventures.com. We travel in story...

In this episode we talk about Skedans (K’una), a coastal Haida village where mortuary poles quietly fade into the earth and stories are carried by cedar and tide. Norm takes a virtual journey with Watchman Melanie. Begin your armchair trip at https://farandawayadventures.com . Full experience at Far and Away Adventures.com. We explore what once was a bustling town of potlatches and trade, now a se...

In this episode we talk about the chaos of the Air Canada strike , which has been resolved but left behind stories of travelers stuck, rerouted, or forced to get creative in order to reach their destinations. While cancellations and delays tested patience, they also reminded us that travel is never just about getting from one place to another—it’s about the stories and experiences along the way. I...

In this episode we talk with John Checketts about how flight routes to Fiji are created and visualized. Even if you’re traveling from your couch, Host Normand Schafer walks you through the strategic and inspiring work that goes into connecting the world with paradise. Think route maps, fleet planning, and dreamy destinations—all from the comfort of home.

In this episode we hear Norm reflect on how just listening to stories from Gwaii Haanas brought up emotion and introspection. Learn more about visiting in person at https://farandawayadventures.com . More stories at Far and Away Adventures.com. Norm shares how a podcast episode turned into a personal reckoning about how we travel, why we travel, and how places like this can change us—even through...

In this episode we talk about Gandll K’in Gwaay.yaay through the storytelling lens of Haida Watchman Dalen Moody, and Norm imagines himself soaking in the sacred pools from his living room chair. Travel through story with us at https://farandawayadventures.com . See more at Far and Away Adventures.com. Dalen shares quiet moments, healing waters, and the humble work of keeping the island clean and...

In this episode we talk about the South Pacific’s tourism transformation—without ever leaving your chair. Host Normand Schafer takes you through a virtual tour of what Far Sight Innovations Consultancy is building behind the scenes: apps that bring Fijian music and folklore to life, websites connecting you to village artisans, and systems that let you plan cultural excursions from your living room...

In this episode we talk about how a remote ancient village on Haida Gwaii can come alive through storytelling—no travel required. Haida Watchman Douglas Moody joins Norm for a moving conversation about T’aanuu Llnagaay. Experience the magic for yourself at https://farandawayadventures.com . Start planning with Far and Away Adventures.com. Douglas paints a picture of this hauntingly beautiful site,...

In this episode we talk about Gwaii Haanas as told by guide Erich Kelch and interpreted by Norm, who takes us on an armchair journey through mossy forests, village remains, and open sea. Experience it for yourself at https://farandawayadventures.com . Dream deeper at Far and Away Adventures.com. Norm reflects on what makes Gwaii Haanas such an extraordinary place—how it’s not just about what you s...

In this episode we talk about what it feels like to travel through story, connection, and cultural truth — even from your chair. Normand Schafer paints a vivid portrait of his time with the Duvata Collective, from village encounters to forest treks, oral traditions to meals made with ancestral love. This is an audio journey into the Fiji most travelers miss — and one you won’t forget.

In this episode we talk about the intersection between travel and responsibility, guided by Shelly Sansom, founder of Ocean Edge Expeditions in Haida Gwaii. Shelly tells Norm how she transformed office life into building voyages rooted in respect: feasts with elders, access to master carvers, forest walks, and paddleboarding—all designed to foster meaningful dialogue, connection, and presence. Vis...

In this episode we talk about connecting with ancestral culture in a way that respects tradition, place, and lineage. Linda Tallis, guide, watchman, and cultural interpreter from Skidans, shares how she brings visitors into Haida history—through totem poles, heritage centers, longhouse pit sites, and clan stories carried through generations. Visit ⁠⁠⁠https://farandawayadventures.com⁠⁠⁠ to plan you...

In this episode we talk about the magic of experiencing a culture through your senses — the drumbeats, the wood smoke, the laughter. Host Normand Schafer takes you along on his immersive afternoon at Culture Village Fiji, where he connected with the spirit of the islands without ever leaving his seat. A true armchair escape with heart.

In this episode we talk about what it’s like to step onto a boat and into a world unchanged by time. Visit ⁠https://farandawayadventures.com⁠ to plan your expedition into the heart of Haida heritage. Discover more at Far and Away Adventures.com. Jeff Reynolds of Maple Leaf Adventures tells Norm about ten years of guiding guests along British Columbia’s wild coast—where Spirit Bears, ancient forest...

In this episode we talk about the wildlife spectacles of Haida Gwaii with Josh Green, a conservation biologist and onboard naturalist with Maple Leaf Expeditions. From seabird colonies and mossy old-growth forests to the sudden breath of a surfacing whale, Josh shares what makes this place one of the most memorable destinations he’s ever worked in. Visit ⁠⁠https://farandawayadventures.com⁠⁠ to pla...

In this episode we talk about the calming power of slow travel — and how Crusoe’s Retreat offers exactly that. Host Normand Schafer recounts his stay through vivid conversations with Amina, revealing how this small Coral Coast resort delivers something truly rare: stillness, connection, and perspective.

In this episode we talk about the experience of arriving in Fiji and being greeted with warm smiles, gentle waves, and modern luxury. Host Normand Schafer brings you along for a story-rich tour of Crowne Plaza Nadi Bay through his conversation with Shristi Mala. It’s a sensory, seat-back, cocktail-in-hand kind of listen—even if you’re still on your couch.

In this episode we talk about what it feels like to live on a private island, told through the lens of a Fijian resort classic. Host Normand Schafer shares stories and reflections from Castaway Island with Steven, painting a picture of hammocks, village songs, moonlit dinners, and Fijian warmth. Close your eyes and travel with us.

In this episode we talk about the awe and wonder of swimming with manta rays—without ever leaving your chair. Normand Schafer walks you through a vivid mental journey based on his interview with Rob, the marine biologist at Barefoot Manta. Hear about gliding giants, turquoise waters, and the serenity of the South Pacific in this immersive, armchair travel escape.

In this episode we talk about what it’s like to swim with reef sharks — from the comfort of your imagination. Host Normand Schafer interviews a marine biologist and photographer based at Barefoot Kuata Island Resort, who shares vivid stories of the ocean, scientific insights, and once-in-a-lifetime encounters with wildlife. You’ll get an insider’s look at what makes this place a hub for conservati...

In this episode we talk about what makes Tahiti Travel Services the ultimate enabler of unforgettable island experiences—even if you’re just dreaming from your living room. We take a behind-the-scenes look at how Tahiti Travel Services transforms travel fantasies into reality with meticulous planning, deep local ties, and warm Polynesian hospitality. Discover the many layers of island travel—like...

In this episode we talk about the captivating experiences offered by Ahura Resorts at Malolo Island Resort and Likuliku Lagoon Resort. Host Normand Schafer takes listeners on a virtual journey to these 100% Fijian-owned resorts, highlighting their unique blend of cultural authenticity, luxurious accommodations, and environmental stewardship. Learn about the traditional Fijian architecture, over-wa...

In this episode we talk about the most luxurious spa and wellness retreats in the South Pacific—but from the cozy comfort of Norm’s armchair. Let Norm take you on a sensory-rich, imaginative tour through The Brando’s overwater pavilions, Fiji’s coconut-fringed massage huts, and the meditative mountain trails of Aro Ha in New Zealand. Feel the gentle hands of a Fijian Bobo massage, hear the waves l...