Take Your Happy Feet On An Antarctica Vacation
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Most people go to the warmer climates in the up-coming season, but there are a few that want to experience someplace completely different from any other vacation spot they may have gone in the past winter months.
The trendy spot on earth at the moment is Antarctica!
Despite what it may seem, there is actually a lot to do and see in the southernmost continent located around the South Pole.
Nature lovers are making this a must visit locale and on their adventure are partaking in a host of activities that include kayaking and cross-country skiing.
While most make it “around the way” via cruise ship, I don’t have to tell you how much there is to do on a big boat.
99.5 % of the areas land mass is covered in ice year round and being the 5th largest continent, that’s a whole lot of ice!
The “warmest” time to go would be from November to February, however be warned, the temperatures are still well below freezing!
Antarctica is the temporary home mainly to people who actually have to be there, namely scientists and researchers; but the tourism is slowly catching on and of course, causing a bit of controversy as it does.
I’m not sure people opposing have to much to worry about since the price tag will probably defer most of us from gallivanting “south”. Also, getting there may present an issue too as there is no place for a commercial plane to land or take-off.
Supposing you make it there, it was probably through the aid of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, which was formed in 1991. IAATO’s mission is “to promote ethical and safe travel to the Antarctic area.” The rules for visitors are embodied in a treaty called the “Atlantic Treaty” and the guidelines are:
* Protect Antarctic wildlife
* Respect protected areas
* Respect scientific research
* Be safe
* Keep Antarctica pristine
Most vacationers arrive by ship and sometimes even get to “land”, but the stay doesn’t last very long due to the harsh temperatures.
If you can weather the weather long enough, popular tourist activities include visits to research sites and wildlife sightings. The more adventurous travelers usually enjoy hiking and mountaineering.
