Antarctica is an icy continent that is situated on top of the South Pole. Antarctica is quite large, being about two times as big as Australia. The ice and snow that cover almost all of the land mass rarely if ever thaw, even when things "warm up" to roughly the freezing point in the summer. Antarctica is the coldest and windiest continent on Earth, and even though it is blanketed with frozen water, most of it is still technically considered a desert, because it receives only a small amount of precipitation. The inhospitable nature of the climate and land have resulted in relatively little land-based life (although a great deal of sea-based life exists there). Many nations have territorial claims over parts of Antarctica, but there are no towns or settlements. Despite all this, ever-increasing numbers of tourists visit Antarctica. And there are many good reasons to do so!
Getting to Antarctica is an adventure in and of itself. Normally, you must first get yourself to southern South America, because most tourists take a cruise ship travelling out of Chile or Argentina. These are the closest countries to the icy continent. The window of time during which tourism takes place is also usually restricted to the months between November and March, when Antarctica is at its "warmest".
Once you're there, you will find much to do, whether you're truly adventurous or just like to visit unique places. A typical cruise might have you visiting the shore for brief sightseeing jaunts, followed by suntanning, dinner, and dancing on the ship. There are plenty of photo opportunities just from the deck! More intrepid travellers can arrange for cross-country ski trips, hiking, mountain-climbing, and even kayaking.
No trip to Antarctica would be complete without penguins, of course. Most tours guide visitors to places where they can experience these famous birds up close, whether for an afternoon or an extended multi-day visit. Because penguins have no natural fear of people, tourists can view them from closer than you might imagine. However, it is very important that nothing disturbs the penguins (or any other wildlife).
Preserving the unspoiled nature of Antarctica is a goal many nations have agreed upon. As tourism to this snowy continent has increased (and global warming has opened more landscape to tourism), this has become even more important. Many nations have signed on to the Antarctic Treaty System, a series of treaties (starting with the 1959 Antarctic Treaty) that make sure that the southernmost continent remains free of military forces, mining, and nuclear waste. As far as tourists are concerned, there are many provisions that call for protection of the landscape and wildlife. The aim is to maintain Antarctica in pristine condition.
An Antarctica vacation is an unforgettable experience-truly a once-in-a-lifetime journey for those willing to go more than a little off the beaten path. Antarctica is a forbidding land that is still willing to welcome the adventurous of spirit.
Getting to Antarctica is an adventure in and of itself. Normally, you must first get yourself to southern South America, because most tourists take a cruise ship travelling out of Chile or Argentina. These are the closest countries to the icy continent. The window of time during which tourism takes place is also usually restricted to the months between November and March, when Antarctica is at its "warmest".
Once you're there, you will find much to do, whether you're truly adventurous or just like to visit unique places. A typical cruise might have you visiting the shore for brief sightseeing jaunts, followed by suntanning, dinner, and dancing on the ship. There are plenty of photo opportunities just from the deck! More intrepid travellers can arrange for cross-country ski trips, hiking, mountain-climbing, and even kayaking.
No trip to Antarctica would be complete without penguins, of course. Most tours guide visitors to places where they can experience these famous birds up close, whether for an afternoon or an extended multi-day visit. Because penguins have no natural fear of people, tourists can view them from closer than you might imagine. However, it is very important that nothing disturbs the penguins (or any other wildlife).
Preserving the unspoiled nature of Antarctica is a goal many nations have agreed upon. As tourism to this snowy continent has increased (and global warming has opened more landscape to tourism), this has become even more important. Many nations have signed on to the Antarctic Treaty System, a series of treaties (starting with the 1959 Antarctic Treaty) that make sure that the southernmost continent remains free of military forces, mining, and nuclear waste. As far as tourists are concerned, there are many provisions that call for protection of the landscape and wildlife. The aim is to maintain Antarctica in pristine condition.
An Antarctica vacation is an unforgettable experience-truly a once-in-a-lifetime journey for those willing to go more than a little off the beaten path. Antarctica is a forbidding land that is still willing to welcome the adventurous of spirit.
About the Author:
Gwyneth P. Enns is a freelance journalist who concentrates on travel to exotic locations. She cherishes the memories of her own Antarctica vacation and looks forward to the next time she can visit Antarctica.
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