Goldring Travel is returning to Antarctica, South Georgia and The Falklands on October 24, 2024, on a twenty-one-day expedition on Aurora Expeditions. It is an early-season experience yet it affords a number of unique opportunities.
Why the heck would I be doing this? I mean it is well before all the wildlife will have arrived, the weather will probably be colder (still not that cold), and I have been to South Georgia twice, The Falklands three times, and Antarctica seven times.
The reasons, for me, are pretty simple:
- The majesty, magnificence, and magic of Antarctica cannot be overstated. Not a single client of mine has ever said, “Well, that was nice.” Nope. Antarctica honestly is about as close to a spiritual experience as travel offers.
- With the Antarctic nights actually having a semblance of dark, the dancing colors are just breathtaking. January 2019 was incredible, so I can’t wait for late October!
- South Georgia is one of the most special places on earth. With 30,000,000 million pairs of breeding birds – not “just” the famous King penguins – plus Elephant, Fur, and Leopard Seals and whales, it is worth this entire trip by itself and this time rather than spending two days, I have the privilege of spending close to five days!
- I’ve been to Volunteer Point in The Falklands twice, so it is time to explore more of the island.
- Possibly the most important reason is that Aurora Expeditions is a truly “get out there” yet intimate expedition-focused experience with no more than 130 guests. If my experience with Aurora in the Arctic is any indication, a knowledgeable, youthful, energetic expedition team will make it one of the most interactive yet. Aurora Expeditions: Goldring Travel Cruise Reflections
My expedition starts with flying from Lake Tahoe to Ushuaia, Argentina, unlike some of the luxury lines that spend a night in Buenos Aires, for an overnight stay at Hayas Ushuaia Resort. I’ve stayed there before and, while it promotes itself as 5-star, let’s say it is a nice place. I enjoyed sitting at the bar, drinking Malbec, and snacking on some local dishes.
This time, I will probably wander into town and dine again at La Casa de los Mariseos, a funky restaurant with amazing local cuisine.
I will probably board the beautiful MV Sylvia Earle later in the afternoon the next day, the same ship I sailed on and loved in the Arctic. (Aurora Expeditions has three similar ships, each a bit different.)
After cruising the Beagle Channel (always fascinating) it will be yet another Drake Passage Crossing. It is a fantastic time to settle in, really get your head around the immensity of what you will be seeing in Antarctica, listen to some lectures that will better inform you, and – most importantly – Get Out on Deck! The wildlife viewing of whales, albatrosses, etc., can be fantastic.
Of worthy note, I have crossed The Drake over a dozen times. It does vary, but even with really rough seas – a one time experience for me – it is a better overall experience and, believe it or not, far less hassle than the Fly the Drake option which has you subjected to weather-related delays and/or cancelations, long standby times, and more. (My experience actually had me sail The Drake one way because of the weather!)
Of worthy note, I have crossed The Drake over a dozen times. It does vary, but even with really rough seas – a one time experience for me – it is a better overall experience and, believe it or not, far less hassle than the Fly the Drake option which has you subjected to weather-related delays and/or cancelations, long standby times, and more. (My experience actually had me sail The Drake one way because of the weather!)
Then, the real magic begins!
Antarctica
South Georgia
The Falklands
Yes, these are all my photographs (except the hotel). Would you like the opportunity to create your own, or just take it all in and experience the magic of Antarctica? You can join me on my twenty-one-day expedition! There is limited availability, but unlimited amazement.
Let me know!
