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3 mins | 17 Oct 2024 Ten Memorable Arctic Adventures Traveling on an ultra-luxury Arctic expedition cruise provides a unique blend of adventure, comfort, and discovery, offering an amazing experience to one of the world’s most distant and compelling regions. Breathtaking Landscapes Admire towering glaciers, craggy beaches, and pristine fjords that highlight the raw beauty of the Arctic tundra. Unique Wildlife Encounters Search for classic Arctic wildlfe in its natural habitat, such as polar bears, walruses, seals, Arctic foxes, and numerous types of whales, which provide excellent wildlife photography opportunity. Midnight Sun and Northern Lights As you bask in the summer midnight sun, each moment of discovery feels a bit more extended. The stunning Aurora Borealis phenomenon, which paints the night sky with vivid hues of green, purple, and pink, can be seen in late August and September, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. Remote Exploration Off-the-beaten path adventures lead by skilled guides will explore inaccessible Arctic islands, secluded bays, and hidden covers accessible only by your expedition ship where luxury meets adventure. Immersion in Culture, Expert-Led Talks and Lectures Cultural Immersion Interact with communities to learn about their diverse cultural history and traditional lifestyles. Returning on board engaging and participating the history and culture of the Arctic villages to life. Participate in educational lectures and presentations by aboard naturalists, biologists, and historians to expand your knowledge of Arctic ecology, geology, and exploration history. Adventure Recaps Every stop offers inclusive experiences, including selected shore excursions, cultural tours, guided Zodiac cruises, treks, and nature walks. Optional, guided excursion Experiences include state-of-the-art, custom-built 6-guest submarines, which allow you to extend your excursion for more ocean exploration. Paddle through frigid fjords to secluded islands on guided kayaking adventures, looking at brilliant glaciers, icebergs, and marine creatures for an exhilarating and immersive Arctic adventures. Polar Diving A polar plunge experience involves jumping into the Arctic Ocean for a refreshing and adrenaline-pumping thrill, all while being supervised by trained crew members. Afterward, team members assist you in getting out of the water and onto the waiting Zodiac. They wrap you in warm towels and robes before handing you a hot drink. The Mysteriously Beautiful Svalbard Experience Svalbard is a lonely, vast, and wild environment, mostly unaffected by human activity. Hike through austere, surreal landscapes led by our Expedition crew, who will provide insights into the unusual little plants and flowers that thrive in this habitat. Admire the rock formations and landscapes formed by frost and water throughout time. While roaming the tundra, you may come upon arctic foxes, reindeer, or other intriguing bird species. Our plans and itinerary are flexible, as we let the weather,conditions, and wildlife define the day. One thing is certain: many spectacular discoveries that few will ever witness await us. Expedition Specifics. Exquisite Accommodations Enjoy sweeping Arctic views and animals from your complimentary parka on your private veranda or via thecamera streaming on your in-suite television. Everything is there, except for the stress Immerse yourself in the exploration of the world’s farthest regions while we take care of the rest.Welcomed by Champagne and a fully stocked in-suite bar, world-class dining rivaling the finest restaurants anywhere, complimentary premium spirits and fine wines throughout the ship, and intuitive personalized service provided by the passionate team—all while only having to unpack once. Arctic Fox Northern Lights Polar Plunge Polar Bear Pool Team Cruise Professionals
Aurora Borealis
3 mins | 14 Oct 2024 Aurora Borealis: Nature’s own Lightning Show Aurora Borealis, commonly known as “The Northern Lights,” occurs due to the interactions between the earth’s magnetic field and the solar wind from the sun, majorly constituting the charged particles. When the charged particles from the sun collide with the outer surface of the earth’s atmosphere at a speed of 45 million mph; it produces nature’s own lightning show, in the form of beautiful curtains and dancing ribbons in the night sky. Since earth’s magnetic field redirects these particles towards the poles, we can see the appearance of lights is more visible in this region. What is Aurora? Aurora, also commonly known as the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) or the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis), is a natural light show visible near the earth’s atmospheric belts of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.In the northern hemisphere, the display is known as Aurora Borealis whereas in the southern hemisphere it is known as the Aurora Australis. Different Shades of Light Have you ever wondered where this hue comes from? When the atoms in these gases are energized, they emit various colors of light. We can see different colors of lights as; different gases emit different lights.Our Earth’s atmosphere constitutes nitrogen (78 percent) and oxygen (21 percent), along with carbon dioxide, neon, and hydrogen in small traces.When an atom absorbs energy, its electron moves to a higher energy level or orbital. Since this state is unstable, the electrons of an atom eventually return to their former energy level, or ground state. A photon, or particle of light, is released throughout the process when they return to their ground state. The energy of a photon determines the color of the light emitted. Oxygen emits green lights, whereas nitrogen emits blue, pink, and purple.Although the concentration of nitrogen is higher in the atmosphere as compared to oxygen, the majority of the lights that are visible in the night sky is green, as nitrogen is harder to energize than oxygen. Best Time to Visit The Northern Lights If you’re planning to cruise through Northern Lights, it would be during the winter months; i.e. from late September to late March. The long silent, and peaceful nights allow plenty of opportunity for Northern Light Hunting. For the Best Aurora Viewing, Visit areas with clear sky and low light pollution. Best places to visit The Northern Lights According to the survey conducted by the British Geological, the best opportunity to visit Northern Lights are more prominent in the regions close to the North Pole such as: 1. Norway Embark on a journey along the dramatic coastline ofNorway. Hunting Northern lights in the heart of the Northern Lights Belt that is in the Northern Norway. The belt stretches from Lofoten to the Northern Cape of the Norway Coastline. (Norway Cruises) Norway Cruises 2. Greenland Voyage on a cruise adventure to pristine places such as Kangerlussuaq, Disko Bay, East Greenland, and Nuuk. Witnessing the amazing exhibition of lights in these areas is something one can only imagine.(Greenland Cruises) Greenland Cruises 3. Iceland The display of the northern lights is astonishingly beautiful in the horizon of Iceland. Filled with geothermal pools, diverse culture and visiting northern lights is truly one’s lifetime experience. Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Kirkjufell are some of the places where you can easily see northern lights.(Iceland Cruises) Iceland Cruises 4. Alaska Traveling far from all over the world during the month of the late September, one can witness the dancing swirls of lights at Fairbanks. Due to its location, longer duration of night hours in winter and intense Auroral activities people love to be a part of it.(Alaska Cruises) Alaska Cruises 5. Svalbard Plan a cruise and discover breathtaking ice-covered fjords, frozen glaciers while hunting for northern lights. Høydebassenget, Nybyen6713 are some of the places where you can be a part of this wonderful phenomenon. (Svalbard Cruises) Svalbard Cruises Team Cruise Professionals
Top Tips for First Time Cruisers
5 mins | 11 Oct 2024 Top Tips for First Time Cruisers “Cruising is like a walk in a park”. You’ve heard it countless times from someone who has been on multiple cruises. And you won’t believe it, but it’s true: anything you’ve ever wanted or desired to make your trip easier and more enjoyable is within reach. You will have no trouble locating a restaurant at any time of the day. Whether you want to shop or spend time with your family and loved ones. There is something for everyone, personally curated on a cruise. However, even a basic cruise like that would be challenging for someone who is new to cruising. But don’t you worry; as a cruise professional in the cruise industry, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best tips for first time cruiser in order to ace your voyage while still making it memorable. 1. Arrive on the port a day before If someone asks me what is the one thing I should never forget and always do. I’ll tell them to follow one piece of advice: arrive at your destination a day early. It may appear that arriving at the embarkation point ahead of schedule is good. But even a minor delay in leaving the residence can cost you lakhs of rupees. However, if you are flying internationally for the cruise, I recommend that you leave your home two or even three days in early. This is not only to ensure that you do not miss your ships, but the delay in your flight can also generate stress and put you in a hurry to arrive on time. Leaving early not only ensures that you catch your cruise, but also that you get an adequate amount of rest before embarking on your voyage.(Find Cruise) 2. Less is more As the saying goes, less is more. The same goes for the packing as it makes its easier. Try to pack items that serve a dual use. Do not try to haul your baggage with whatever is visible to your eyes.Be a clever bag packer and only pack goods that serve a dual use. Another thing to remember when packing is to keep your needs for your first day in a carry bag. As soon as you get on a cruise, the porters take care of your bags. These will be delivered to your room later.Which will be brought to your room later in the day. So, make sure to carry the essentials for the first few hours of your journey, such as your medication, sunscreen, a phone charger or power bank, and your identity card, just in case. 3. Don’t forget your medications When cruising, pack medications and personal toiletries in your carry-on bag to ensure easy access and avoid disruptions. Store medications in their original containers, and include essential items like sunscreen, shampoo, and toothbrushes. This helps you stay organized and prepared for your journey. 4. Research and learn about your destinations To enhance your cruise experience, conduct extensive study on your destinations before setting sail. Investigate the local attractions, cultural sites, food alternatives, and special events offered at each port.Understanding the history and culture of each location can further enhance your appreciation. This preparation will assist you in planning fascinating excursions, smoothly navigating your trips, and thoroughly immersing yourself in each destination’s offers, resulting in a more memorable trip.(Book your Cruise Now) 5. Match your Tech to your Itinerary Do thorough research on the ports that you’ll be visiting and pack your gadgets and accessories specific to each stop to match your technology to your cruise schedule. Bring portable chargers, a universal converter, and a waterproof case on your adventures.If your trip will include a variety of activities, pick a camera or smartphone with a long battery life and enough of storage. Planning your technology to your plans ensures that you are well-equipped to capture memories and stay connected throughout your tour. 6. Thoughtfully Choose your Wi – fi Package When choosing a cruise Wi-Fi plan, keep your requirements and budget in mind. Basic packages often include simple surfing and chatting, whereas premium versions allow for streaming and quicker speeds. Determine how much time you’ll spend online and whether you’ll require numerous device connections. Keep in mind that satellite internet can be slower than terrestrial internet, so choose wisely to ensure a pleasant experience. 7. Download a Cruise App Before your vacation, download a cruise app to ensure a smooth experience on board. You may easily use the app to check in, examine your itinerary, make dinner reservations, and book excursions. It also offers real-time information on activities, entertainment, and ship whereabouts. Messaging, virtual tours, and digital boarding cards are frequent features of the app. Downloading the app beforehand your departure ensures a smoother, more enjoyable cruise experience, with all of the required tools at your fingertips.(Download Princess Cruises App) 8. Contact a Travel Agent A travel agent can help you arrange a stress-free cruise vacation. They can help you choose the ideal cruise that fits your interests, budget, and schedule. They also manage the details, such as arranging excursions and finding the best cabin options, ensuring that you get the most for your money. Furthermore, they offer individual advice and support throughout the process, allowing you to relax and relish your holiday from the beginning to the end. 9. Consider Cruise Insurance When booking a cruise, it is wise to consider Cruise Insurance. It covers unforeseen expenses such as vacation cancellations, medical situations, and misplaced luggage. Cruises, with their unique schedule and overseas stops, are susceptible to particular risks that common travel insurance might not address. By investing in a personalized insurance, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re protected from unanticipated challenges and can fully enjoy your trip. Team Cruise Professionals
Top things to do in Alaska
04 mins | 10 Oct 2024 Top things to do in Alaska The “Last Frontier” of America – Alaska. The wild and magnificent presence of the beauty is epic. Nature is colorful and alive. And it’s instantly accessible within Alaska. A place of untouched nature, vast wildlife, rich culture, rare and unique wildlife. Home to some of the highest mountains, deep blue glaciers, brown bears, moose and longest days . There are many things that one can do while visiting the land of Glaciers. One destination that many people do have on their travel wish list is Alaska.Here are the top ten things that one should experience while being In Alaska. College Fjords Stretched 20 miles long in the region and situated in the Northern Sector of Prince William Sound of U. S. A.; consisting of five tide water glaciers, large valley glaciers and dozens of smaller glaciers. The glaciers present outside of the northwest are christened after the names of women’s colleges and the glaciers of the southeast are named after men’s sport college. Discovered during the Harriman Expeditions several names were given to the glaciers such as Harvard, Smith, William and Yale. Out of which Harvard and Yale are the biggest ones in the northwest and southeast region. Book Alaska Cruises. Ketchikan Meet the first city of Alaska and famously renowned as “The Salmon Capital of the world” – Ketchikan is one of the must visiting places in the list of Alaska. Due to its thriving culture, visitors witness some of the oldest totem poles in all of the state. Located in the Totem Bight State National Park and Totem Heritage Center. Artistically carved by hands out of Red Cedar, a malleable wood serving tall as the witnessing the Human Artwork. Among the 24 Totem Poles, there is a replica of Lincoln pole (original present in The Alaska State Museum in Juneau), using a picture of Abrahm Lincoln. Glacier Bay National Park Just west of Juneau, this breathtaking national park and preserve boasts some of the world’s most spectacular tidewater glaciers, such as Margerie Glacier, which often drops colossal chunks of ice into the sea. A group of nurturing glaciers, alpine meadows, carved valleys and spectacular lakes surrounded with Breath-taking scenery. A heaven for adventurous visitors seeking solace in the region. Prepare a set of binoculars to have a glance at whales and bald eagles. Book Alaska Cruises. Denali National Park Stretched around six million acres of landscapes, stand proudly America’s tallest mountain lies in the Alaskan National Park. The name ”Denali” means ”The Great One” in the native Athabascan language. At 20,310 feet above sea level. Denali is the highest peak in North America and is surrounded by one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife sanctuaries. Denali National Park is home to many types of wildlife including caribou, moose, wolves, Dall sheep, bald eagles, and the mighty grizzly bears. Acres of tundra and forest surround the granite bulk of Denali, one of the most beautiful places in Alaska. Icy Strait Point Nearby Alaska’s largest Tlingit village exists a uniquely Alaskan place – lcy Strait Point. Hoonah, meaning “village by the cliff,” is home to the Huna Tlingit who have occupied this area for thousands of years. Local legend tells how they were forced from their ancestral home in Glacier Bay by advancing glaciers, resulting in their relocation to and settlement of Hoonah. Icy Strait’s waters have yielded record-breaking halibut and salmon catches and provide summer-long access to all five species of salmon. Chicago of Island, on which Icy Strait Point is located, supports one of the largest concentrations of brown bears in the world and sightings are common. Book Alaska Cruises. Hubbard Glacier Measuring 76 miles long and plunged 1200 feet in the depths of the bay. Behold its beauty and phenomenal hues of blue from afar. It is when your cruise ships draw nearer, you can observe how giant a glacier can be towering over 40 stories. Elevating and breathtakingly beautiful, the glaciers can also reach the height of your cruise ship’s uppermost deck. Juneau Historically famous for its gold mines, Juneau is the capital of Alaska. Founded in the year of 1880, by Joe Juneau and Richard Harris in search of gold, this area is covered with giant glaciers, serpentine streams and a stunning view of huge mountains and deep-water bodies; some of the things which have attracted visitors since centuries. Book Alaska Cruises. Sitka A unique blend of native Tlingit Culture and Russian History, located on the outer coast of Alaska’s Inside Passage. Surrounded by the island – studded waters and forests along the line of water’s edge, it is a home to nearly 9000 people. Team Cruise Professionals
Holidays and Festivals in Norway
03 mins | 10 Oct 2024 Holidays and Festivals in Norway When you think about Norway, you undoubtedly envision captivating fjords and stunning scenery. But Norway is much more than just nature at its finest. Scratch under the lovely surface to reveal the rich culture and traditional practices that give the country its own delight. Want to experience the delights of Norway’s event calendar? Here are some of the top Norwegian celebrations and festivals to attend during your stay. Constitution Day If there is one celebration that properly embodies the spirit of Norway, it is Norwegian Constitution Day. Norwegian Independence Day, which commemorates the signing of the Norwegian Constitution on May 17, 1814, is a significant and enjoyable event.With locals dressed traditionally (bunads) and children enthusiastically waving Norwegian flags, it’s difficult not to feel thoroughly immersed in the overwhelming sense of national pride. A vacation to Norway will provide you with a front-row seat to the celebrations on board the ship, as well as the opportunity to enjoy some delicious street food in the ports. Saint John’s Eve Summer is a great season to visit Norway. The Midnight Sun allows for limitless days north of the Arctic Circle and ensures continuous daylight along the Norwegian shoreline. All summer long, there will be a variety of activities, ranging from food fairs to world-class concerts. On June 23rd, Norwegians gather to commemorate the birth of Saint John the Baptist and the summer solstice, lighting massive bonfires as the sun sets over the horizon. Few sites are as stunning as this one; prepare for a visual, auditory, and gastronomical feast! Beregenfest Looking for additional activities to do during the Norwegian summer? Look no further than Bergenfest, a music festival featuring the best of Norwegian and worldwide music. You can see a variety of live acts, including music, theatre, dance, and visual arts, over the course of two weeks in May or June. As if that wasn’t enough, it takes place at Bergenhus Fortress, a medieval castle in Norway’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed neighborhood of Bryggen. You’ll get to immerse yourself in Norway’s artistic culture while admiring the beauty of your surroundings! St. Olav’s Day The St. Olav Festival in Trondheim showcases Norway’s interesting medieval heritage. The annual festival, held on July 29th, is a tribute to Norway’s patron saint, St. Olav, who played a significant role in defining Norway’s rich Christian heritage. Even if you’re not very interested in medieval history, the magnificent processions, theatrical plays, and lavish costumes are certainly worth seeing! Northern Lights Festival Seeing the Northern Lights is a very breathtaking experience. But when you mix that with traditional Norwegian music, the effect becomes even more amazing. The Northern Lights Festival, which runs from January 26th to February 2nd, comprises live outdoor concerts by renowned musicians, with the goal that the aurora borealis would make an appearance or two at the same time. Santa Lucia When visiting Norway during the winter months, Christmas isn’t the only pleasure. On December 13th, you’ll also be able to participate in the Santa Lucia celebrations, which engulf the Scandinavian countries in a whirlwind of dazzling lights and festivities. The celebration, named after the Christian martyr Saint Lucia, aims to be a source of light and hope during the darkest time of year. Schoolchildren dress in white and sing traditional songs, led by a chosen girl who will represent Lucia. While Santa Lucia is mostly aimed toward children and families, don’t let that deter you from enjoying the lively music and delicious snacks – the saffron buns are a particular highlight! Team Cruise Professionals
Cruise for Solo Travellers
02 mins | 10 Oct 2024 Cruises for Solo Travellers There’s a lot to love about taking a cruise as a solitary traveler. Whether your travel companion is busy, you want to recharge your batteries with some’me time’, or you leave with a slew of new friends, there are numerous reasons why a solo cruise could be the ideal vacation for you. First Time Solo Traveller Solo cruising provides unforgettable experiences in breathtaking destinations. Discover the rich history and natural beauty of the Mediterranean, including varied coastlines and Greek islands. The Caribbean is the ideal place for your first solo cruise, with glorious sunshine and white sandy beaches. A Northern Lights cruise is ideal for witnessing the breathtaking natural light show. There are plenty of excellent cruises to fantastic destinations, so you’re likely to find one that fits your fantasy experience. A cruise holiday is ideal for a solitary traveler looking to meet new people. Some cruise lines provide complimentary activities designed expressly for single travelers to interact and get to know one another, such as coffee mornings and drink receptions. Dining and shore excursions provide opportunities to meet new people. And don’t forget, there are lots of choices for alone time! Relax in your cabin with room service or visit the on-board spa for restorative treatments. There are numerous perks to travelling alone. Not only will you meet like-minded people, but you will also be able to travel without compromising by selecting the cruise and itinerary that best suits you. A solo cruise can definitely take the worry out of travel and make you feel a little safer; you can relax knowing you don’t have to dine alone or tour the sites on your own, unless you want to, of course! Choosing your Cruise Accommodation As a solitary traveler, we provide a variety of cabin alternatives to ensure your satisfaction. Every cabin includes a comfy bed for a good night’s sleep after a day of exploration, plenty of storage space, and your own en-suite bathroom. There are plenty wonderful options to pick from, including single cabins, sea view cabins, and balcony cabins. Whatever your preferences or demands, we offer the ideal cabin for you. As a solo tourist, you may prefer a single cabin. A single cabins have lots of space and conveniences to make it feel like a home away from home. Single rooms are available as Inside, Sea View, and Balcony cabins, with further information available on each ship’s tour (here). If you prefer a little more space, the cruise may provide larger rooms with king-sized mattresses and a sea view or balcony. Cabin rooms, including Mini-suites and Suites, offer additional amenities such as a spacious lounge area, complimentary Champagne and chocolates upon arrival, butler service, bathrobes and slippers, and a whirlpool bath for relaxation, making your solo cruise even more special. Team Cruise Professionals
Planning a Japan Cruise
3 mins | 10 Oct 2024 Planning a Japan Cruise Japan has a long history, advanced technology, a vibrant culture, and beautiful architecture. From iconic skyscrapers and modern buildings to world-famous temples, shrines, and magnificent national parks, Japan has much to offer travelers visiting the country. When planning your Japan visit, including these must-see attractions: Sensoji Temple Sensoji Temple is situated in Asakusa, a prominent neighborhood of Tokyo. Built in 628 CE, this Buddhist temple is Tokyo’s oldest, and it is claimed that over 30 million people visit it each year to ponder in its contemplative environment. The Sensoji Temple was originally erected to commemorate Bodhisattva Kannon, the goddess of mercy, and it is still a significant center of worship. You won’t want to miss it while cruising Japan. Lake Toya Sapporo’s Lake Toya is a stunning 100,000-year-old caldera teeming with trout and smelt, making it a favorite fishing destination. Because of geothermal heating from surrounding volcanoes, it is ice-free all year round. Visitors can enjoy cruising Lake Toya through its calm waters before proceeding to Mount Usu, one of Japan’s most active volcanoes. A visit to this gorgeous location will provide you with plenty of photo opportunities. Itsukushima Shrine The Itsukushima Shrine, located on Miyajima, a sacred island southwest of Hiroshima, is regarded as one of Japan’s top three picturesque spots. The shrine’s “floating” red torii (entry gate) makes it easily identifiable. as the tide is high, the gate looks to be buoyant; as the tide recedes, you may go out to the pillars that hold the gate firmly to the ground and take some closer shots. This famous landmark, designated by Japan as a National Treasure, should be at the top of your agenda when your cruise ship arrives in port. Are you ready to arrange your Japan vacation? Discover the cruise that is ideal for you. View Japan Cruises. Team Cruise Professionals
The Wonders of Penguin Highway
2 mins | 09 Oct 2024 The Wonders of Penguin Highways Antarctica, the distant and frigid continent, is home to rare fauna and breathtaking vistas. It’s the coldest, driest, and windiest spot on the world, but it also hosts one of nature’s most beautiful spectacles: the penguin highway. These are not man-made roadways, but rather routes formed by penguins’ constant march between their nesting areas and the ocean. What are Penguin Highways? Penguin highways are the consequence of many penguins following the same route from their nesting areas to the sea and back again. Their webbed feet create a natural highway over the tough Antarctic environment by packing snow into a smooth, ice route over time. These paths, visible from a distance, generate complex networks of trails that crisscross the frozen terrain. These roadways are alive with activity as penguins march orderly to and from the ocean, providing a look into the structured chaos of penguin life. Seasonal Creators Penguin highways occur when penguins arrive at breeding colonies during the Antarctic spring and summer (November-February). During this period, the trails become the major routes for the colony’s daily activity, allowing the penguins to travel more swiftly and effectively while minimizing the effort required to navigate deep snow and ice. This efficiency is especially critical during the breeding season, when parents must make many journeys to the ocean to provide food for their young. The Cold War’s Commuting Penguin highways form when penguins arrive at breeding colonies throughout the Antarctic spring and summer (November–February). During this time, the trails become the primary routes for the colony’s daily activities, allowing the penguins to travel more quickly and effectively while requiring less effort to navigate deep snow and ice. This efficiency is especially important during the breeding season, when parents must make frequent trips to the water to produce food for their offspring. Tracking Penguin Highways Observing penguin highways is a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable experience for individuals who have the opportunity to visit Antarctica. Expeditioners can see a continual stream of penguins marching along these roads, frequently in single line, with a clear purpose and intent. Standing among the icebergs and glaciers, watching penguins go about their daily routines, you’ll be struck by the beauty and resilience of Antarctic life. It’s an experience that you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home. So, the next time you think about penguins, imagine them on their highways—tiny travelers making their way through the freezing plains of Antarctica, one of our planet’s harshest regions. Team Cruise Professionals
Antarctica – The White Continent
3 mins | 09 Oct 2024 Antarctica – The White Continent About Antarctica Located at the world’s southernmost point, the world’s greatest, driest, windiest, most frigid, and iciest continent is found at the south pole – Antarctica. Spread over an area of over 14.2 million square kilometers, or 5.5 million square miles. Ninety-eight percent of the land is covered by ice. It is practically hard for the flora and wildlife to flourish in Antarctica due to its severe and harsh environment. Some of the fauna that makes these places so alluring to visitors still lives in the immense horizon of frozen oceans, lone icebergs, and snow-covered deserts . Weather Due to its location at the South Pole, Antarctica experiences relatively little direct sunshine year-round making it the coldest area in the world. Throughout the year, the average temperature that has been observed is -57 degrees Celsius. When it comes to summer temperatures, the highest recorded temperature is -2 or, fortunately 8 degrees Celsius whereas in the winters the lowest recorded temperature across the continent is -97 degrees Celsius. Antarctica wildlife Despite the extreme weather and low temperatures that nearly make it impossible for wildlife to live, travelers can still see amazing creatures including blue whales, humpback whales, seals, penguins, large-winged albatrosses, and elephant seals. These creatures have a large layer of fat behind their thick coats, which allows them to survive in this hostile environment. They have an additional layer of fat called blubber that protects them from the cold and gives them better heat insulation. In addition to this, Antarctic creatures are exceptional in hiding from their surroundings through camouflage. The animals’ fur color—their bright undersides and dark backs—provides additional protection. This makes it simpler for predators to keep concealed from prey and vice versa as prey stay hidden from predators. They can blend in with their surroundings, such as the dark sea floor from above or beneath massive icebergs from below. Best time to visit Antarctica Depending on what attractions visitors like to see, there is a suitable period to visit Antarctica. If someone asks you, “What is the temperature in Antarctica?”. Many of you will probably remark, “Oh, that’s so simple; even a child can answer that question.” And probably would have said ‘cold’, but what if I told you that due to the Earth’s tilt and orbit around the sun, there tends to be two distinct seasons: winter and summer. The continent is encircled by massive icebergs and sheets of ice for six months, that is when you see that the continent is greeting the arrival of winters and preventing visitors from visiting this awe-inspiring place. Winter is also the season when the sun sets far below the horizon, plunging the area into complete darkness. These animals’ migration serves as a persuasive argument against traveling to Antarctica in this prevailing weather conditions. But as the saying goes, “every cloud has a silver lining”. Antarctica experiences its summer from October to the end of March. Breaking the ice and clearing the path for the family, the summer thus welcome the approach of their old friends such as whales, penguins, seals, and birds. These creatures’ arrival indicates that summer is, in fact, the best time to book an Antarctica cruise. Team Cruise Professionals