A postmark from Port Lockroy - the most Southerly Post Office in the World!

There's nothing quite like sending a postcard from a far-flung corner of the world to let family, friends and loved-ones know you're thinking of them, even if you're thousands of miles away!   I've been lucky enough to send my folks post from various exotic locations, but my Dad still treasures the one I sent him from Antarctica with that all-important stamp and postmark, thanks to the most southerly Post Office in World - Port Lockroy!  The UK Antarctic Heritage Trust operates this tiny Post Office from Bransfield House on Goudier Island (on behalf of the Government of the British Antarctic Territory which donates a proportion of the Post Office revenue to the Trust).

Port Lockroy is a tiny speck on the map of the Antarctic Peninsula, located amidst a landscape covered in penguins, glaciers, mountains, with ice-berg choked waters - an astounding place!  Amazingly, over 70,000 cards and letters are hand-processed by the staff there each year to over 100 different countries!  Rick, Helen and Rachel (the intrepid trio who manned Port Lockroy for the 07/08 season) are now home and Port Lockroy is closed until November.  You can read about the team's everyday exploits in Antarctica via the UK Antarctic Heritage Trust's website.   Their 'Letters from Lockroy' are a great way of finding out what life is like down on the White Continent, and how the seasons and weather changes, together with the wildlife year-on-year.

Port Lockroy is not only an important natural and historic environment.  The UKAHT consistently monitors (through a long-term environmental study) the impact of visitors to the site.  This allows the Trust to regulate the number of visitors and ships visiting the area, as well as, in accordance with the Antarctic Treaty, imposing strict site guidelines to ensure the environment is properly cared for.

In true polar form, Discover the World also offer tours to the most northerly Post Office in the world, at Ny Alesund, Spitsbergen (the Norwegian High Arctic)!  Both Port Lockroy and Ny Alesund are reached by expedition vessel on one of our polar journeys.

Waterproof Camera Bags & other handy items....

When in Antarctica, it's vital that you keep your gear (especially your camera) safe and dry.  As you'll be transported from vessel to shore (what we call 'landings') by zodiac, sometimes you can't help but get a little wet from the spray or the weather in general.  Do not fear - a solution is nigh thanks to the beady eyes of my colleague Pam.  She spotted the Aquapac company at the Outdoor Show last weekend - here's the link. They stock a variety of waterproof bags to ensure your items are protected - ranging from specific items for cameras (SLR and compact), camcorders and even for your ipod! 

Tourism in Antarctica Quadruples inside of a Decade

Just reading an interesting article by Simon Jenkins at Guardian.co.uk regarding tourism in Antarctica.  Incredibly, visitor numbers to the white continent have quadrupled over the past decade, with a 14% increase compared to last season alone. 

As anyone who has ventured to the Antarctic will I'm sure agree, the scenery and wildlife that one encounters down there is just astounding.  For many of our passengers this is a trip of a lifetime and is strangely humbling.  I've heard of numerous passengers returning home and making considerable lifestyle changes. There's something about the vastness and remoteness of the continent that puts things into perspective.  But if it comes at a potential price to the continent itself, then what?  The International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) proffers strict guidelines as to conduct of adventure cruise vessels in Antarctica, which so far keeps things in check. But what of the future?  Like journalist Simon Jenkins says - there are no police in Antarctica, and territorial claims from various governments (including our own) are looming large.... The world has truly opened up. Even the Northeast Passage, closed to visitors for the past fifty years or so, will see an icebreaker carrying paying passengers through its icy straits this summer.  Visitors can stand at the North and South Pole thanks to intrepid adventure operators... 

You can read about IAATO guidelines and passenger statistics across the various landing site on the Antarctic Peninsula at their website. 

February in Antarctica - a Whale of a Time!

As January is now behind us, I thought I'd reflect on the splendours of travelling down to Antarctica in February.  Undoubtedly February has to be one of the best times to see whales.  As most departures run from November to mid-March each year you might mistakenly think that this the tail-end of the season and wonder if it's a good time to travel. Year on year we speak to returning passengers who have had the most amazing encounters with these mammoth marine mammals at this time of year. 

One lady was quite emotional as she described the vessel being surrounded by a pod of 50 or so Orca.  Another passenger described how a cheeky gentoo sought refuge in their zodiac from a hungry killer whale, and how the orca casually spy-hopped not far away, keeping its beady eye on his potential snack!  Each Antarctic experience is very different and special in its own way, which is part of the  charm of the white continent - you never know what suprises your particular voyage will bring!   February and March are 'late summer' for Antarctica, and besides enjoying whale watching at its very best, penguin colonies are very active and the chicks are particularly playful.  Read more about the season highlights here. Your parka toggle could be a tasty treat for a gentoo chick, and there's only one way of finding out!  Receding ice also allows for easier exploration; the ice choked waterways are still dotted with the most spectacular carved bergs and fur seals are most commonly seen on the Peninsula at this time.  With penguins, seals, whales and other birdlife in abundance throughout the austral summer in Antarctica, take the plunge and start planning your adventure of a lifetime right now!

Footwear in Antarctica - tips for keeping your toes toasty!

Someone once told me that if you keep your head, hands and feet warm, then whatever the temperature, you won't feel the cold quite so keenly.  I'd tend to agree wholeheartedly with them!  With that thought in mind, here are a few tips for keeping your feet warm on your Antarctic cruise.

FOOTWEAR - WELLINGTON BOOTS IN ANTARCTICA

These are essential for landings in Antarctica; when you are brought by zodiac from the vessel to the shore you MUST wear waterproof boots otherwise your feet will get wet!  Newsflash - there are no piers or jetties on the white continent!  Some of the voyage operators that we work with DO provide boots for passengers, however with others you will need to bring your own.  Our team will be happy to advise you and you will receive a comprehensive kitlist well in advance, so you can shop for all those essential items.  One hot tip here at Discover the World is to take fleecey insoles - you can read my previous blog about them here.  And my colleague Amanda has just returned from our new 'Peninsula Fly-in' and recommends 'welly warmers' or boot liners - see the pics attached to this blog!  I personally found that hiking liner socks and ski socks did the trick, but will definitely take some welly warmers with me next time!  Any fellow polar passengers out there that would care to share their thoughts as to those essential little items to pack for Antarctica?

I've posted a few entries on this blog that I hope will help in advising you on what to pack for your polar expedition voyage - have a browse through the 'Travel Tips' link on this blog.... Alternatively, take a look at our full colour brochure (available to view online); we've packed it full of what we think are inspirational photographs and you can see what gear our past clients are wearing on their trips.

SAVE £1092 - Late Availability Offer - visit Antarctica this month!

When the January blues set in I always find it's best to either start planning something exciting (naturally a holiday to an exotic location springs to mind) or to actually 'jump ship' and escape from the routine.  If you're looking to start 2008 with the trip of a lifetime, then we may just have the solution....

Due to late availability we have just three berths available for travel to Antarctica (one full cabin and one berth in a twin cabin sharing with another gentleman passenger) on our 14-day 'Extended Peninsula - Antarctic Circle Crossing' trip aboard the 52 passenger and ex-research vessel the Professor Molchanov, departing from Ushuaia on 27 January 2008 (returning to port on 9 Feb).  SAVE an incredible £1092 per person on a twin cabin with shared facilities (was £4223, NOW £3131). 

As this is the the Antarctic summertime, there's also plenty of daylight hours to enjoy (as opposed to it being pitch black by 5pm here in the UK!).  The itinerary will take in the glistening pristine scenery of the glacier-cloaked mountain peaks and ice-choked waterways of the Antarctic Peninsula, penguin rookeries galore, whale watching and bring amazing opportunities to photograph seals and Antarctic birdlife.  Visit our website to see a photo gallery. Contact us now on +44 (0) 1737 218800 to take advantage of this special offer and to discuss your requirements for flights from the UK to Argentina (which are offered on a tailor-made basis).   

Open Day Weekend - Meet the Specialists!

O P E N   D A Y
Come and meet our team of expert travel consultants this weekend, on 5 & 6 JANUARY 2008 between 10am – 2pm.

Join us in our office in Banstead to sample delicacies from Iceland, Sweden and New Zealand, enjoy a glass or two of wine and chat with our team. You’ll also be entered into a prize draw for a 2-night Reykjavik City Break.

Pop in for a quick chat or stay and watch videos and presentations, regale your travel stories or simply sit and browse our brochures. Our friendly team will be happy to answer those niggling questions and share their experiences of the wonderful array of destinations that Discover the World offer.  The most popular travel dates for expedition cruises and polar bear land-based trips always sell out very quickly, so NOW is the time to start seriously planning your trip of a lifetime.  With a wealth of travel tales and armed with maps, previous expedition logs and our own personal photograph albums the 'Polar Journeys' team are only too willing to wax lyrical about the icy expanses and wildlife that we know and love!

You can find our office off Banstead High Street, through the alley-way by Piza Express (opposite Marks & Spencer). We have a private car park with limited car parking facilities.
For maps and directions click here.

We very much look forward to seeing you!

Kind Regards
The team at Discover the World

New Office hours from 1st Jan 2008: Monday to Friday: 9am to 6pm, Saturday: 9am to 5pm, Sunday: 10.00am to 2.00pm

Earth: Power of the Planet - ICE

The BBC has a real knack of creating informative and inspiring nature programmes; think of the ground-breaking 'Life on Earth', 'Blue Planet' and the more recent 'Planet Earth'.  Myself, my friends, family and colleagues have found their latest offering 'Earth: Power of the Planet' to be equally enthralling.  Tonight, presenter Dr Iain Stewart is looking into how ice is created, and continues to influence our world's make-up.  Clips are available on the Beeb's website.  Tune in tonight at 9pm on BBC2 to find out more....

Antarctic kit - Shops & Retailers

Following on from yesterday's blog, hopefully it gave you an idea of what essentials you should pack to ensure you're well prepared for life onboard ship and out on the Antarctic continent and its islands.  Here are a few retailers that you might like to try:

MILLETS  - Found on most good High Streets in the UK.  Great for well-priced fleeces and jumpers, socks and hiking boots (I bought mine in the sale a few years ago and they are well-loved!), possibly thicker jackets, and useful little things such as hand warmers and walking poles (the latter can be good for steadying yourself if you're a little nervous of your step on ice). 

BLACKS - Again, found in quite a few shopping centres - tend to stock a lot of ski gear so look here for salopettes and ski trousers.  I found these to be the best things, as they protect your delicate kidney area.  Longer ski jackets are useful as they keep your posterior warm, good if you're sitting in the zodiacs enjoying an iceberg cruise, or are not moving about so much as a particular penguin has caught your attention and you're sitting enthralled by it on a cold rock - ah the memories!

FIELD & TREK - Comparable to the above two - I've found their staff in particular to be helpful and knowledgeable in the past.

SNOW AND ROCK- A bit pricier, but a good range of ski gear, gloves, high UV protection wrap-around sunglasses (essential to avoid the glare off the snow).

ROHAN - Again, on the more expensive end of the scale, but they do have some lovely kit!

If you live in the London area, then Southampton Street (near Covent Garden) is a good one-stop shopping area for clothing, as this is home to the following large stores: Field & Trek, the North Face and Mountain Warehouse.

For brands of clothing, I've personally found Peter Storm, Columbia Sportswear, Northface, Lowe Alpine, Patagonia and Berghaus to be good quality and durable.  It's a good idea to trial run your kit in the UK, before putting it to the test in Antarctica!  However if you do find that you've forgotten something, there is a limited range of outdoor clothing ships in Ushuaia itself.

The above are just suggestions - do make sure the gear you purchase is right for you - happy shopping!

Antarctica - what to pack?!

With the start of the season for Antarctic expedition cruising imminent, we're bracing ourselves for numerous telephone calls from anxious travellers, all pondering the all-important question of WHAT TO PACK!?!  There really are no secrets here - we ensure that all travellers are issued with the essential pre-travel documentation and clothing lists that they need.  Despite this, it's just human nature to ensure that you have the necessary items for warmth and comfort in a cold climate! 

In light of the above, here are my own personal Antarctic Clothing tips:

1. Pack your case, then take it all out and pack it again, removing half of the stuff you really won't need.  It's a challenge, but with Aerolineas Argentinas economy class flights limiting checked-in luggage to around 15kg per person (between Buenos Aires and Ushuaia and vice-versa), it's good to be ruthless!  There is a laundry service onboard all vessels (payable locally) and storage space is not inexhaustible, so pack carefully.

2. Bring your swimsuit.  The volcanic beach at Pendulum Cove (Deception Island, in the South Shetland Islands) is the perfect spot for an Antarctic dip.  If you're lucky then your crew may dig out a special hot tub in the steaming sand, for you to wallow in and ponder the meaning of life.  If you're not brave enough then most vessels have a sauna onboard - brilliant for toasting yourself after a day out in the ice and snow.

3. Layer, layer, layer - trapping warm air between them is the key.....  Pack thermals (longjohns and long sleeved tops), some good thickness socks (I found that a lighter hiking sock and a pair of ski socks did the trick), fleecey jumpers, a couple of long-sleeved shirts or roll-necks, a warm woolly jumper, a pair of inner gloves and thicker outer pair (I found ski mittens were perfect) as well as a spare pair, a snood/cowl neck scarf or balaclava for keeping your neck and lower face covered, a warm hat which covers your ears, sunglasses with good UV protection, sunscreen (remember there's a hole in the ozone!), lipbalm and moisturiser for chapped skin, ski trousers or something for your bottom half that is waterproof, windproof and toasty, and a good thick thermal parka/jacket (I found that a warm ski jacket was adequate as I layered up underneath).  If you can, then ensure you have a jacket with a thicker hood (rather than one of those thin flimy ones).  Also pack a couple of T-shirts - it can be pleasantly warm in the sunshine!

4. Wellington boots are ESSENTIAL there are no piers or docks in Antarctica, so the zodiacs will 'land' on the beaches and the crew will pull them as far ashore as possible, for passengers to then step ashore.  Usually the water will then come up your leg a little way, so wellies are absolutely necessary.  I wouldn't spend a fortune on high-tech boots - just the usual communal garden ones will do (with a good 'grip' on the bottom).  Personally I found that the standard boots that you wear for gardening were fine.  You might like to consider buying fleece insoles to put in them, as they provide a nice toasty extra layer for your feet!  Hiking boots are good for getting out on deck (if it's slippy) or if you're on a zodiac cruise (rather than doing an actual landing).

Life onboard is casual and friendly, therefore leave your ballgowns and DJ's at home, pack your best comfortable and practical outdoor gear, and prepare to be wowed by the white continent! 

Artists in Antarctica - special voyage departures

The astounding intensity of visiting Antarctica is enough to make any mere mortal go dewy-eyed.  Even I myself was inspired to pick up pen and paper and write a few heart-felt poetic lines to mark the occasion!  Admittedly I've never shown anyone though.... However if you're looking for guidance in expressing your inner artist, we might just have the solution.  A select few departures aboard the MV Orlova (carrying just 110 passengers) will also offer an 'artists in residence' programme.

Leeanna Goldsmith will be accompanying the 10 and 20 November Classic Antarctica departures (12 days, Ushuaia-Ushuaia) aboard MV Orlova.  Leeanna is a visual artist from Australia who wil exhibit the paintings she has created during three previous residencies in June 2007, in Hobart, Tasmania.  This exhibition will be in celebration of International Polar Year.

Camille Seaman will be onboard the 30 November Classic Antarctica departure aboard MV Orlova (12 days, Ushuaia-Ushuaia).  Camille is a photographer from Berkley, California.  her work has been featured in group exhibitions in New York and California.  She is curator of Gallery FCB and co-founder of Fastback Creative Books.  I highly recommend looking at Camille's website - she has some absolutely spectacular photographs of icebergs in Antarctica - they really are beautiful.

There is still limited space on the above departures, therefore we would recommend getting in touch with us at Discover the  World as soon as possible if these special trips appeal.

Taking Photographs in Antarctica

It's definitely not going to be a problem finding absolutely breathtaking subject matter in Antarctica, but how do you go about capturing it on camera?  Well, for starters, it's best not to place too much emphasis on trying, as there's no way you can truly capture this vast and beautiful continent. Just absorb the peace you feel sitting high up on a bank of snow looking out at what looks like hundreds of mountain peaks stretching as far as the eye can see, or the smell, sound and shere numbers of a nesting ground of gentoos on Aitcho Island, or the gentle plink plunk of melting ice when your zodiac driver cuts the engine and you drift slowly alongside a mammoth iceberg the size of a house..... You can't capture that in a picture, but I still can't help but break into the hugest smile when I flick through my own Antarctic photos.   

Aside from remembering to look at Antarctica not just through a lens, you'll no doubt take some amazing shots to reflect on at home.  There's a great website I found giving some really useful tips and hints at taking photographs around the white continent.  Michael Reichmann gives some useful overviews of what equipment he found worked best in Antarctic conditions. It's worth remembering however that all expedition voyages take place during the Antarctic summertime - when temperatures down there are at their warmest and the coastline becomes alive with breeding wildlife (not the howling blizzard conditions of the South Pole that you so often see in the documentaries).  Anticipate an average of around zero degrees.  Still - you'll need to allow for some possible blizzards (it really is known as the windiest continent for a reason!), cloudy weather and also spells of bright blinding sunshine (don't forget your T-shirts - layering is the way to go)! 

Most people take two cameras (incase one fails), and use extensive zoom lenses for wildlife pictures, as well as polarising lenses (that soak up the colours).  Zooms aren't always necessary, as penguins are absolutely everywhere (even if you try your hardest to stay the specified distance away from them).  Chicks in paritcular can be fearless and curious and often feel the need to check that your Wellington boots really aren't edible (and that goes for coat and rucksack toggles too!).  Zooms are of course very useful for capturing close-ups of seals on ice floes or other wildlife best seen at a distance. I kept my camera warm by stuffing it down the front of my parka - remember that batteries run down more quickly in colder conditions, and mechanics can jam. Also ensure that you have your camera in a waterproof bag to keep out any salt spray thrown up on zodiac rides to the landings.  Take a BIG memory card too- you don't want to be limited and have to cull your images half-way through your trip. Click here for a report by Andrew Curry on professional photographer Rosemary Keogh's experiences - somewhat more extreme than many of our passengers will experience! 

Passenger Annie King's blog - Classic Antarctica

So - you've read the brochure, been scanning through the website, have watched the films March of the Penguins and even Happy Feet - now's your chance to read an entertaining first-hand account from one of our passengers  who travelled aboard the 110-passenger M/V Orlova on the Classic Antarctica voyage (visiting the South Shetland Islands and the Peninsula) starting on 10 November in Ushuaia last year. 

Many thanks to Annie King for allowing us to post this link - looks like she had a wonderful time - we're of course not jealous at all!!!  Annie's blog starts in the UK - with the flight over to Argentina, and then begins in earnest in Ushuaia at Tierra del Fuego (the end of the world...).  Read on and you'll learn about Annie's relatively calm crossing of the dreaded Drake Passage (renowned as one of the roughest stretches of water in the world), leading on to the first sightings of Antarctica and her amazing experiences exploring the wonders of the white continent.

It was lovely to see my colleague Rachel's name mentioned - we were delighted that Discover the World was able to assist in the planning of Annie's trip of a lifetime. Not a bad job that we have - helping make experiences like Annie's happen!

Antarctica Weddell Sea Voyage

Our previously sold-out voyage, Antarctic Peninsula & the Weddell Sea, departing from Ushuaia on 17 January 2007, has just become available again due to a cancellation of several berths. 

Mid-January is a fantastic time to travel to Antarctica - with plenty of daylight hours thanks to the Austral summer sun, and penguin chicks in abundance!  This voyage will journey into the Weddell Sea, which is where Sir Ernest Shackleton's ship The Endurance sank during the Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition (1914-16), before his inspiring voyage with his men to Elephant Island, and then on to South Georgia with the trusty James Caird.

One of the highlights of the trip will be sailing through the ice-choked waters of Iceberg Alley enroute to the Weddell Sea (right at the tip of the Peninsula), and the huge tabular icebergs that have broken away from the Larson Ice Shelf have to be seen to be believed - they're like floating islands!  Space for experienced scuba-divers is also available on this departure - imagine exploring the carved underbelly of icebergs, seeing whale skeletons and witnessing the incredible speed of penguins underwater!

Life aboard the 46-passenger former research vessel the Aleksey Maryshev, will no doubt be a lot more comfortable than the hardships encountered during Shackleton's journey!  The smaller ships really are THE best option for intrepid travellers to Antarctica; fewer passenger numbers mean that ALL passengers onboard will be able to take part in EVERY landing or zodiac cruise, maximising time ashore.  Who wants to gaze from the deck whilst other passengers have all the fun?!  Usually the small group atmosphere on board is brilliant, with everyone getting to know each other and sharing their photographs and travel stories.   

Hurry now to take advantage of this available space before the berths are snapped up! Price per person based on a twin cabin with private facilities (voyage only) is £3799.00.  Return flights from London to Ushuaia (via Buenos Aires) are from approx. £800 per person - travel arrangements are quoted on a tailor-made basis so please contact our team to discuss options.  This is the only departure for this itinerary in 2007 - the next Weddell Sea Voyage is not until January 2008!  Start 2007 with a real adventure - your memories of the white continent will last a lifetime!

Sarpik Ittuk - Expedition Vessel Success in Antarctica!

We’ve just received an update from our colleague Dale, following inaugural voyage of the newly refurbished Sarpik Ittuk to the Antarctic Peninsula, which we thought we’d share with you.  The Sarpik Ittuk carries 96 passengers, and is an expedition vessel. Previously having operated in the icy waters of Greenland, we were interested to learn feedback from her maiden voyage to Antarctica.  With highly experienced and respected Expedition Leader Laurie Dexter onboard, it was always going to be a great trip!

One question on everyone’s mind is always how a vessel fares in the Drake Passage (a very rough stretch of water between South America and the Antarctic Peninsula).  Given a Force 9 gale, with winds of more than 40 knots, she coped well with the waves, thanks to being able to maintain 10 knots across the Drake, even in such sea conditions, making it to the South Shetland Islands in good time! 

Getting in and out of Zodiacs is also quite simple with the Sarpik Ittuk; just three steps and you are in the landing craft (whereas other vessels have longer gangways, although they are still sturdy!). The ship has powerful bow and stern thrusters, which make manoeuvering in narrow channels and bays very easy.  The vessel's shallow draft - the amount of ship below the waterline - is another advantage when sailing the Peninsula. The ship can be positioned closer to shore, shortening the transfer times during landings. 

  The Panorama Lounge affords wonderful views of the passing scenery. Passengers can relax in the lounge with a warm cup of coffee or tea (or something stronger!) after a landing, and the lounge also converts easily to a presentation room with all the latest audio-visual equipment.  Sarpik’s ample exterior decks are great for stretching the legs, and taking in the clean cool fresh air. They are also perfect places for taking pictures of icebergs and wildlife in the water.  Another bonus pointed out by Dale was the views from the cabin window while lying in bed – what a great way to watch the sunrise at 2:30am in the morning!

Planet Earth Ice Worlds - Antarctica & the Arctic

The BBC's Planet Earth series kicks off again on BBC1 at 9pm this Sunday (5 November).  The first programme of the new series features the poles - 'Ice World'.  Arctic and Antarctic enthusiasts should be glued to their sets!  The Radio Times this month features a gorgeous Emperor Penguin chick on the front cover - tune in or miss out!

Red Snow and Teenage Gentoos - top tips for travel in Antarctica

WHY TRAVEL TO ANTARCTICA IN LATE FEBRUARY OR MARCH?

Although our Classic Antarctica departures for January 2007 are pretty much sold out, there is some space available aboard M/V Orlova on two departures for the latter end of the Antarctic season: February 20 and March 1, 2007. Late summer in the Antarctic allows the small ships to go farther south and it is the best time for whale-watching, viewing seals and to witness two fascinating natural phenomena - red snow and chick feeding behaviors of Gentoo penguins.

RED SNOW

Algae live in Antarctic snow. They blossom toward the end of the summer (ie. Feb/March), staining the snow so green that it appears to be a patch of grass. The algae-covered snow can be surrounded by white ice and snow. Scientists still haven't determined why the algae just appears in patches. More puzzling still is that a portion of the green algae appears red. Great patches of red snow can be seen from miles away. It is as if a painter has spilled bucket of crimson on the landscape. The only time of year that intrepid Antarctic explorers can see red snow is in late February and early March.

GENTOO PENGUIN CHICK FEEDING BEHAVIOUR

Gentoo Penguins are the only species of penguin to feed their chicks well into adolescence.  Adolescent Gentoo chicks are almost as tall as their parents, but they are covered in varying amounts of fuzzy down (rather like punk rockers with a mohican hairstyle in odd places!).

When their parent returns from the sea with a craw full of krill to share with the hungry chick (just like teenagers, they too are always hungry), the parent stops at the shoreline and calls out. They do not take turns, so the noise is quite something to hear. The 'dinner bell' is usually  heard by more than the chick it's intended for; cue a hungry gaggle of chicks setting off in hot pursue of the parent.  The chase continues until there is only one chick left. Believe it or not, scientists have determined that the biological chick is always the one that remains at the end of the chase. Unbelievable, but true! AND AMUSING!

February or March departures are priced more keenly than the peak Dec and January dates - as well as the amazing (and comical!) sights above, the ice is still spectacular and wildlife is in abundance - Antarctica never ceases to amaze at any time of year - but as time ticks on cabins will no doubt disappear - please do therefore get in touch as soon as possible to avoid disappointment!

Antarctic Equipment Office in Ushuaia

  Some voyage operators provide boots and parkas for their passengers, and if you're booked with one of these operators then you will no doubt have already received a boots & parka size request form (ie. for Classic Antarctica, the Explorers Voyage).  Discover the World does however also work with a voyage operator who does not provide such equipment onboard (ie. for those booked on our Antarctic Peninsula or Peninsula & Beyond voyages).  If this is the case then you may wish to avoid dragging heavy Wellingtons and jackets down to Ushuaia, and instead hire your equipment there.  Passengers booked with Discover the World will have already received this information, or it is available via the 'useful links' page on our website.

Please visit the Antarctic Equipment Office if you need/would like to hire equipment for your Antarctic voyage locally.  We strongly advise that you contact them in advance to reserve your item/s as they don't have an inexhaustable supply of different sizes.  Equipment is clean, in good condition, but not brand new.  Please double-check before you set foot onboard that you are happy with your gear, as otherwise it'll be too late when you're on the Drake to get something else!  Just incase, you may wish to try out your Wellies in the bath!  The Equipment Office require payment in cash, as well as a deposit.  Items must be collected from and returned to the office, which is not far from downtown Ushuaia.  It's a short walk uphill with a great view from the top (and an even faster one downhill on the return) from the main Avenida in Ushuaia. Please see the map above for information. 

Surviving the Drake Passage - Top Tips

With the start of the Antarctic season just a month away now, chances are that your thoughts are slowly turning to the dreaded Drake Passage, arguably the roughest stretch of water in the world.  The Drake Passage is located between the most common point of embarkation for Antarctic voyages in South America (Ushuaia) and the white continent itself.  I won't lie - it IS generally very rough (although sometimes can be surprisingly calm - it's the luck of the draw) - so prepare for the worst and anything else is a bonus!  It's usually a max. of four days out of your life (two days there, two days back), for a lifetime of memories.... so pluck up the courage, and take heed of some handy tips we'd like to share:

Gingernut biscuits - or indeed any kind of ginger (tea, sweets, crystalised variety).  Ginger is great for settling a queasy stomach, and good for sharing with fellow passengers who don't have them in their own country - an great icebreaker (excuse the pun) and conversation-starter!

Get to bed in good time. Chances are that you'll be high on adrenaline, but if you can be asleep for when you hit the Drake then it's amazing how the body adjusts (without you knowing it!). Most passengers do tend to get their sealegs after the first 24 hours.

Sit up on the bridge, and keep your eye on the horizon - this helps combat sickness.

Stay hydrated and do eat (even though you may not feel like it) - you'll feel better with something in your stomach.

Visit your doctor/GP before you leave - they may have access to stronger medication than across the counter (which incidentally made me very sleepy and groggy - not ideal but if you suffer from seasickness.....). Your doctor onboard will also be able to offer other medication.

Mind you, what's at the end is ultimately worth it, and I promise you that you won't regret it!   Any other handy tips/hints from those proud to have survived the Drake are most welcome....!

Planning a Holiday to Antarctica

The actual Antarctic season is nearly upon us - we're soon to start sharing our expertise in earnest about what to pack, how cold it really is down there, and what handy hints and tips we might have up our sleeves to combat the dreaded Drake Passage!  However, if there's one bit of advice I can share with anyone still considering a holiday to Antarctica it's to BOOK EARLY!  Certainly for the small ships (that number around 50 passengers) there's a global market of travellers looking for that special 'expedition voyage' experience (hence competition for places is stiff!), and the most popular times of year (January & beginning February) and itineraries (20-day Explorers Voyage - Falkland Islands, South Georgia & the Peninsula) start selling out around a year in advance!  We work with fantastic voyage operators that offer great experiences aboard vessels carrying between around 50-100 passengers, however the number of vessels and experts available that can offer such special voyages is limited.

We're receiving calls almost daily at the moment from people wanting to book voyages for next January 2007 - which being the 'high summer' season, is arguably one of the best times of year to travel (as the penguin chicks will have hatched and the beaches are awash with busy parents, plus January offers the longest hours of daylight), however cabins available for January 2007 are as rare as hen's teeth right now!  Admittedly some cancellations can and do occur, so we always take names so people can be put on a 'waitlist' - but it's still best not to wait until it's too late to enquire, and then be disappointed - this is the trip of a lifetime after all - we're sure our clients don't want to compromise, so why wait!  You can contact us now for 2007/2008 prices and dates - we are accepting bookings already and are just about to put these on our website!

East Antarctica Voyage - unique and adventurous

Antarctica - the Peninsula, the Far Side, East Antarctica - it's more than just one big white continent!  Voyages commencing in South America and therefore reaching the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the spectacular Antarctic Peninsula are without doubt some of our most popular voyages.  However those amongst you who have already experienced the spectacular pristine environment of Antarctica from Argentina or Chile may wish to venture a little further.....  The area of 'East Antarctica' is home to Australia's historic Mawson's Hut as well as being the location for the French base Dumont D'Urville at Terra Adelie (see their webcam here).  This is where the Oscar-winning documentary film 'March of the Penguins' was filmed. East Antarctica and the Ross Sea region is typically reached from New Zealand.  2006 departures have been long sold out for East Antarctica - to avoid disappointment and secure your spot for this voyage in 2007 we would recommend contacting us as soon as possible! 

BBC's Planet Earth - Emperor Penguins & Iguazu Falls

  If you missed the BBC's fantastic Planet Earth series earlier this year, then it's well worth having a sneaky peak at their website (choose any dropdown menu and scroll down to 'Planet Earth').  The Emperor penguins clip is just amazing - the conditions that these beautiful birds endure are just incredible!  Also worth a peak is the clip featuring aerial shots of the cascading Iguazu Falls on the Argentinean/Brazilian border - quite spectacular!   Why not combine both in a trip of a lifetime - Emperor penguins in Antarctica (with our 'Emperor Penguin Safari' or our longer Ross Sea itinerary 'The Great Explorer's Voyage').  With voyages departing from South America (departing from Ushuaia at the tip of the continent) the best way of entering Argentina is via Buenos Aires (a lively and colourful city in itself).  The Iguazu Falls can then be reached by a short flight from Buenos Aires (around 1 hr 45 mins).  What a contrasting holiday that would be - the crisp cold and blues of the ice in Antarctica and the lush green subtropical climate of Iguazu and the Falls......  All extensions to our Antarctic voyages are on a tailor-made basis - please contact us to enthuse and discuss!

Books - suggested Antarctica reading list

• A COMPLETE GUIDE TO ANTARCTIC WILDLIFE (NB: Discover the World provide a complimentary copy of this beautiful 500+page hardback book for each Antarctic booking - RRP £32.50!)

ISBN 951-98947-0-5

The ultimate guide to the wildlife - beautifully illustrated with colour photographs and comprehensive drawings - a substantial, heavy book containing all the info you need to make the most of wildlife viewings in Antarctica.

• ANTARCTIC EXPLORER  - MAP (NB: this is provided complimentary for certain voyages that we offer)

ISBN 0-9538618-3-X

Perfect for tracking your progress along the continent - particularly the peninsula area and for tracing past routes ventured by both historic explorers and modern day expeditions.

• ANTARCTICA, A GUIDE TO THE WILDLIFE (this is provided complimentary for certain voyages that we offer)

ISBN 1-84162-131-5

A good paperback book with comprehensive wildlife descriptions from respected ornithologist Tony Soper - ideal to take with you as it's packed with info but lightweight.

• SOUTH - THE ENDURANCE EXPEDITION - SIR ERNEST SHACKLETON

ISBN, 0140288864

Relive the adventures of this remarkable man - what they achieved was truly astounding and humbling.

• SCOTT'S LAST EXPEDITION: THE JOURNALS OF CAPTAIN R F SCOTT

ISBN, 0140288864

Fascinating background reading that will captivate your imagination and take you to the wilds of the white continent.

Please feel free to make your own suggestions - warmly welcomed!

Fleecey insoles - keep your toes toasty!

SPECIAL DISCOVER THE WORLD ANTARCTIC GEAR TIP - Bring fleece insoles with you - they provide an extra layer between your feet and the ground, and are also good if your boots are a little on the large side!

Anyone else out there have any other personal Antarctica tips/hints they'd care to share?

What to wear? Antarctic clothing tips

OK - so you've booked the voyage (check), booked your flights (check), booked your extra nights accommodation (check), rescued your passport out from the sock drawer (check!) - but what on earth do you pack to wear?

The voyage operators that we work with here at Discover the World provide excellent 'Preparing for your Polar Voyage' booklets, brimming full of handy tips and hints about what to expect, and they also advise on what to pack, but just incase here are a few items that you shouldn't leave home without (from top to toe!):

• Woolly/fleecy hat (preferably so it covers your ears, or even a balaclava - the penguins aren't fashion critics!)
• Good sunglasses - avoid the UV glare - it's powerful down there with all that ice and snow.
• Sunscreen - you mean you haven't heard about the hole in the ozone layer?  Also avoids panda eyes when combined with the above and a beautiful sunny day!
• Thermals - not particularly attractive but oh-so-necessary.
• Layers - think T-shirts, turtlenecks, and then fleeces - you can always strip off if the sun comes out (and it's glorious when it does!). Warm air is trapped between layers - much more effective than one big jumper!
• Fleeces - they really do the trick and are good to wear onboard - this isn't a fashion parade after all.
• Warm waterproof jacket/parka (with a thick hood if possible).  I found a ski-jacket did the trick.
• Mittens (or gloves)- two pairs (incase one goes AWOL). Personally I prefer mittens as the warm air circulates around your fingers.  Ski-gloves/mittens will do the trick.  Why not also bring fingerless gloves with you - good for when you've been hover for longer than anticipated with a camera to your eye for that special shot and want to feel your digits!
• Backpack - to store your gear whilst on landings.  Waterproof if possible or put your kit in an inner waterproof sealed bag first.
• Good thermal trousers - again, either with a thermal fleece layer, middle layer and waterproof outer layer, or salopettes/ski-trousers are ideal (beware letting in a draft in your sensitive kidney area at your lower back).
• Sturdy boots with grip (for onboard the vessel - decks can be slippy). Trainers/comfy shoes for inside the boat.
• Warm socks - if you have a liner sock and then ski-socks/thick hiking socks that tends to do the trick. 
• Wellington boots (up to the lower knee) - NEWSFLASH - there are no piers or docks in Antarctica - the zodiacs are pulled up as far as possible onto the shore/rocks but you'll almost always be stepping into water.

NB: Some of our voyage operators provide parkas and boots for clients travelling to Antarctica - please check with us first if in doubt.....  Pictured right is my lovely colleague Rachel, sporting very appropriate attire at Neko Harbour, Antarctica!

Antarctic Clothing - Tips!

CLOTHING ADVICE FOR YOUR ANTARCTIC EXPEDITION VOYAGE

It’s essential to be well-prepared for a trip to the great White Continent, and one of the most commonly asked questions in preparing for this amazing trip is ‘what clothing and equipment do I pack?’ for an Antarctic Expedition Voyage offered by Discover the World.

The layering principle is the best idea to keep in mind when packing for your Antarctic Expedition Voyage – layers trap warm air and therefore are far preferable to one thick coat.  It’s important to bear in mind the following:

* Keep extremities warm – pack a good hat that covers the ears (possibly also bring a balaclava just incase a blizzard whips in!) and good warm, waterproof mittens/gloves (the former allow for movement of warm air around the fingers and is personally my preference). Neck warmers or a ‘snood’ keep the lower face and neck cosy!

* Allow for breatheable clothing (certainly for your base layer) – fabrics that wick away sweat are useful.

* Thermal clothing is a definitely good idea – long johns and long sleeved thermal tops give a good base layer.

* Two or three insulating layers should come next – layer-up T-shirts and long sleeved tops (handy also for wearing around the vessel and when the sun comes out and it can be rather warm!) – layer polo necks, warm woollen jumpers and fleeces.  Casual gear is the order of the day on these voyages – no dressing for dinner!

* WATER and WINDPROOF outer layer (a traditional parka or ski-type jacket – preferably with hood).  Ski-trousers or salopettes are wind and waterproof and provide an insulating layer.  If layering with fleece and other trousers for your lower body it’s crucial to also ensure you wear waterproof trousers.

* Wellington boots are an ESSENTIAL!  There are no piers in Antarctica – on landings the zodiac crew will pull the vessel as far up onto the beach/land as possible, however it’s inevitable that you will be stepping into shallow water.  Standard ‘Garden Wellies’ will suffice  (no need for waders!) worn with ski or woollen socks to keep feet warm and dry.

* Finally, sunglasses to protect against snow-glare and watery-eyes (the latter is a possibility in strong wind) should also be checked-off on your packing list.

On some voyages (Classic Antarctica, Crossing the Antarctic Circle, Explorers Voyage, Great Explorers Voyage) expedition parkas and Wellington boots are provided (the jacket is a souvenir to keep at the end of your voyage, whereas the boots are on loan for the duration of your time aboard vessel).  The exception to this is those voyages with the MV Orlova or Sarpik Ittuk, whereby boots only are provided. 

Other voyages offered by Discover the World do not provide an expedition parka or boots, therefore details will be provided for the Antarctic Equipment Office, based in Ushuaia, where you may hire gear for a minimal fee.  We would recommend prereserving items in advance (giving details of the vessel, departure and arrival date in Ushuaia, and your sizes of course) as at peak times stock gets very limited!

Having taken into account the above you should be well-prepared for your trip and free to concentrate on soaking up the amazing wildlife and awesome landscape that is ANTARCTICA!

Our specialist team at Discover the World will be only too happy to answer any further queries that you may have – please call us on +44 (0) 1737 218800 to discuss planning your expedition voyage to Antarctica.  We look forward to hearing from you!