Antarctica: What Should Travelers Expect?
To many people, a trip to Antarctica is an official Bucket List occasion. But what should you know before you book a trip way, way down south? GoNOMAD Travel interviewed three travelers who had made the journey to this part of the world with Quark Expeditions, a leader in Polar travel. Here is some of their advice.
What was the one thing you would recommend to a person who is thinking about taking the same voyage, ie, anything you wished you had packed, or anything you brought that you shouldn’t have?
Zaid: It is not really important to carry extra camera batteries for excursions off the ship. Excursions typically last 3.5 hours and a fully charged battery should suffice.
Merv: “Bring a LOT of memory cards and an good camera with a long lens – at least 400mm. Also bring wide angle lenses, even a fisheye has a place in Antarctica! And strangely, do not bring a huge warm coat – Quark will look after that for you!
Dennis O’Connor: ” I would recommend that they extend a trip whenever possible. I wanted to go to Argentina without delays, which allowed time for a side trip. I would also caution about bringing too many clothes. Yes it’s Antarctica and you need to bring the correct clothing, but this was an expedition, not a fashion show. Comfort trumped style.”
What was surprising to you about Antarctica? What was different than what you thought it would be?
Zaid: “When I took the Polar Plunge I was really surprised at how salty iceberg filled water can be. That was the first thought that came to mind when I jumped in, followed by “Yikes, this is COLD.”
What really made the expedition to Antarctica even more amazing was the crew and other passengers. All of us had a passion for adventure and similar reasons for journeying to Antarctica.
We could relate with each other.
Dennis: “I don’t think I was prepared for the sensory overload of Antarctica. The enormity of it, the beauty, the wildlife was beyond explanation or expectation. I came away with a feeling that I will never be able to top this trip.”