(https://www.ncl.com/cruises-to/antarctica-cruises)
After concluding my US territories series, I set out to find more unique vacation locations. US territories are usually unfamiliar with the majority of teenagers, and I wanted to continue exploring distinctive locations that many might be unfamiliar with. Then, I suddenly remembered an advertisement that I saw a few years ago: a cruise service, one that sails through a beautiful, undiscovered location: Antarctica.
When we usually think about vacations, we primarily think about Europe, Asia, South America, North America, Africa, and Australia. Even though Antarctica is one of the seven continents, it isn’t a typical place for a senior trip or family vacation. However, it can bring upon a vacation worth a lifetime.
Why should you go to Antarctica? Many might be against it because it is extremely cold and uninhabited, yet there’s beauty in both those things. Since it is so cold, the air is so clean and pure, an extreme contrast from metropolitan locations such as New York City, which many refer to as the “concrete jungle”. The cold also enhances Antarctica- colors, shapes, and senses, providing an all-encompassing experience. To avoid sickness, tourists can only spend short amounts of time outside, and the tour guides ensure that, so you don’t need to worry about your safety.
The uninhabited aspect of Antarctica may scare some, but there are many benefits to that. As college students, we are always surrounded by work. From classes to meetings to homework, we rarely get a chance to take a breath and relax. Beyond that, we are always surrounded by people, so we don’t even get moments to ourselves. However, going to Antarctica can calm your mind. Since it is uninhabited, you are surrounded by serenity- wildlife, mountains, rock, and ice. Antarctica allows you to slow down and stop and admire the beauty of nature.
There are many experiences that you can have in Antarctica. There is unique wildlife that you will find nowhere else- specifically the black cormorants and skuas. You can also see penguins- big groups waddling around glaciers. There are seals and whales under the crisp and pure water, and types too. If you are someone who prefers more calm activities, then exploring the wildlife is the perfect activity for you.
If you are more adventurous, there are several activities for you to do. You can take a hot air balloon and witness Antarctica from afar, where you can really see the peacefulness. You can kayak through the icy waters, and get a closer look at some of the animals. You can mountain bike, fly in a helicopter, or hike to remote locations. Mountain Biking in Antarctica? That is something you rarely hear about.
Antarctica is a beautiful, pristine place, one that you don’t hear much about. Step away from your hectic life and experience peacefulness like no other. Be a part of history, of something unique.