The Wanderers Blog

An Insiders view on Amazon, Ecuador

By Charles Cumella

Ecuador is an amazing place, full of natural and man-made wonders. Ecuador has some of the most unique landscapes in the world, including the Highland region (Sierra), the Coastal region (Costa), and the Galapagos. But there’s no way to forget the Amazon region (Amazonia), and its enormous amount of fauna and flora. There are a few national parks and protected areas in Ecuador’s Amazon region, including the Cuyabeno Wildlife reserve, the Yasuni National Park, and the Limoncocha Biological Reserve. There are 2 species of animals discovered every day in the Ecuadorian Amazon, this demonstrates that Ecuador is one of the most bio-diverse countries in the world!

What makes Amazon in Ecuador a good travel destination?

The Amazon is an amazing travel destination because of all of the flora and fauna that can be found there, the passengers will be amazed of everything they can see; from 10-foot snakes to dolphins in the middle of a river.

Tell us something that every traveller should know when travelling to the Amazon?

Every person that travels to the Ecuadorian Amazon should know that they are in for a huge surprise with everything they’ll see, and that they’ll have one of the most relaxing and impacting trips of their lives.

Any essentials that one needs to carry when they travelling to Amazon?

Insect repellent, sun block, sunglasses, light clothing and water resistant ponchos are all indispensable things to have with you in the Amazon. Also indispensable, is the desire to learn about the ecosystem and communities that call this place home.

Which are the most surreal places to visit when in Amazon?

The Cuyabeno is one of the most surreal places to visit in the Ecuadorian Amazon. It has the highest amount of flora and fauna in the Ecuadorian Amazon, having 12.000 species of plants, and 320 species of animals. It’s a wildlife lover’s dream!

Can you tell us a little about the life of the locals?

The local communities that call the Ecuadorian Amazon home are very diverse, some like the Siona community in the Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve, are very used to visitors and even welcome tourists to partake in their daily lives. Others, like the Taromenani tribe located in the Yasuni National Park, do not welcome visitors and are very violent. The communities are very different and very comfortable living out of our “normal” society.

What are the local delicacies/drinks which one must try and where Amazon?

The Ecuadorian Amazon has many strange local delicacies, one of the most polarizing ones is the Chontacuro grubs, these are large insect larvae that live in trees, these are then grilled and served. The “chicha de jora” is a drink you will most likely find in the Amazon, it is a fermented corn flour drink that the locals drink like fruit juice, but once it is sufficiently fermented, it becomes an alcoholic beverage.
Yucca is a type of root vegetable used as a base in almost every local food and is grown everywhere in the area.

What are things which one must buy when in Amazon?

The best things to buy in the Amazon are souvenirs, supporting the local communities, such as things made with Tagua, a special seed used for manufacturing jewelry and others.

Which are the most romantic places to visit in Amazon?

Cuyabeno is the most romantic place in the Amazon, it has white and black water lakes which is an amazing place to enjoy a beautiful sunset with your loved one.

What are the local festivals which one must visit when in Amazon?

In Archidona, there is the festival of Chonta, which is a tradition in order to celebrate the region’s success over the invading Spanish forces. This is held during April.

The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about Amazon?

Sadly, there is a lot of oil exploitation in the Ecuadorian Amazon region. This is something that may not be in many guidebooks but it is also a necessary insight into local life in the area.

According to you what is the best thing about Amazon?

For me, the best thing in the Amazon is the huge amount of wildlife and the rest and relaxation you can have while there. It’s an unforgettable experience.

Check out our latest package on the Amazon.

Top 10 Travel Gift Ideas

By Surabhi Manjrekar

The Christmas holidays are creeping up, and there’s barely any time left.

Wondering what to gift to your loved ones..

Flowers, Sweets, Maybe a bottle of Champagne?

That was easy wasn’t it? But what if that person is someone who values travel over luxury..?

What are some good gift ideas for travelers? It’s a common question that everyone gets lost with.

Fret not my friend we have got you covered.

Since it’s clear that traveler get them something that will make their experience better — by making things easier, more fun or really just upping the awesome factor.

Here is a list of 10 Awesome things you could gift your travel enthusiast friends, family member or anyone who loves to travel.

1. Scratch Map World

We travelers love to mark off where we’ve been and plan where we want to go next. These scratch-off travel maps make it easy to see exactly which countries we’ve visited by having brightly colored countries appear where we’ve scratched off. For years this has been a popular gift with many travelers and thankfully there are a number of different options.

Get This Here at 649.00 Rs

2. Bag Organizer Packing Cubes for Travel

For some, packing a suitcase is an art form. For others, an essential part of routine travel plans. Either way, the Amazon Basics packing cubes help keep your belongings neatly stored and conveniently organized. Best of all, the fabric containers protect garments against wrinkles, reducing the need to iron once you arrive at your final destination.

Get It Here at 999.00 Rs

3. Wanderlust Travel Memory Foam Neck Pillow

What kind of experience can it bring to you? This premium neck pillow is an exquisitely niche product made for those on the go, so if you are planning a trip that includes traveling by car, bus, plane or train, or you are considering to have a pillow for your afternoon nap at work, your search for the best pillow is over.

Get This Here at 699 Rs

4. Travel Swiss Knife

This multipurpose compact tool is considered as the base full length Swiss Army Knife, and has been one of the bestsellers among the “Swiss Army Knives”. The tool incorporates a feature-set of 12 functions, catering

many day to day utilities to the active outdoors person

Get it Here at 1410.00 Rs

5. Travel Sleep Mask

This Blind Fold and Sleep Mask is soft and comfortable. It is made up of mulberry silk. It helps you get a complete and peaceful sleep and also helps while meditating.. Its a perfect travel gift.

Get it Here at 310.00 Rs

6. World Tapestry

Get this stylish world map tapestry which you can hang in your room or any other place. It will always remind you of your travel memories.

Get it Here at 789.00 Rs

7. Multipurpose cable holder organizer

This cable organizer will assist you to sort out and arrange all your jumbled up cables in an elegant manner. Since this cable winder is fabulously lightweight, you can take it along with you whenever you are travelling. They are easy to use and have a long shelf life

Get the Here at 379.00 Rs

8. Dry Bag Sack

Ocean Pack dry tube bag is good for storing your dry gears when the outside is wet. It’s 100% Waterproof Ocean Pack for wading,drifting,swimming,outdoor traveling. Bigger Space: you could put all your small items like phone, cash, tissue, keys, watch, etc, inside it.Suitable for hiking, camping, rafting, sailing and any other outdoor activities.

Get it Here for 639.00 Rs

9. Travel Journal

Travel journals are a place where you can write about trips you have taken, what you learned during and the experiences you had. It is a collection of adventures, stories, memories and discovery. It doesn’t matter where you’re going or who you’re traveling with, an online trip journal can come anywhere.

Buy the Here at 799.00 Rs

10. World Map Pendant

The perfect necklace to project your globetrotter experience of a traveller! It has an intricate cutout map available in golden and silver colour

Get it Here at 249.00 Rs

An Insiders View on Slovenia

Maja

Slovenia, very green and diverse country between the Mediterranean and the Alps, boasts all the beauties of the Old World. When you want to learn about Europe in one stroke, come to Slovenia. In just 20,273 square kilometers there are wonderful Alps, charming coastline, pristine lakes, breath-taking crystal clear rivers, thermal springs, beautiful valleys, magnificent Karst cave world, antique castles, medieval cities, ancient villages, and countless vineyards with top quality wines. Here in this small and easily covered area one can find 4 geographic regions, 3 climate regions and 3 wine growing regions. This is Slovenia, compact and astonishing, a diversity of Europe in miniature. More diverse experiences await you all year round.

What makes Slovenia an ideal travel destination for all?

Not many countries can offer such a wide variety of amazing possibilities like Slovenia can. It is an ideal travel destination, among the most biologically diverse countries in the world and stunningly beautiful nature, small distances, one of the cleanest countries in Europe, excellent culinary & wine.

Tell us something that every traveller should know when travelling to Slovenia?

Slovenians are respectful of the rules in public places and appreciate the kindness and good manners from others. Slovenians also recycle and try to keep the country clean. Also very important: tap water is clean and drinkable. Most of Slovenians speak English and are kind to tourists.

Any essentials that one needs to carry when they are travelling?

To bring euros and some sports shoes because there is a lot of places in nature to discover, especially away from the capital.

Which are the most surreal places to visit when in Slovenia?

Vintgar Gorge, Velika Planina, Logarska Dolina, Soca valley, Krizna cave, Postojna Cave, Skocjan Cave, Bled.

Can you tell us a little about the life of the locals?

Locals try to have the best quality of life, working hours are from 8 am until 4 pm or from 9 am to 5 pm which leaves almost all afternoon free for different activities in nature or just to spend quality time with the family and friends. When the weather is nice, locals also like to spend time in the city centre, just having a drink in one of the bars along the Ljubljanica river. During weekends, people like to have a short getaway in one of the different places in Slovenia, because everything is about one hour to two hours away from the capital.

What are the local delicacies/drinks which one must try and where Slovenia?

Local wine in different regions of Slovenia, Kranjska sausage, struklji (composed of dough and various types of filling), Potica (a dessert, rolled dough cake with different fillings, most common is nut filling), Bled cream cake, jota (a stew with sour cabbage and beans).

What are things which one must buy when in Slovenia?

Licitar heart, olive oil from different Slovenian producers, honey from different Slovenian producers, lace from Idrija, salt or chocolate with salt or different products from Piran saltpans, Slovenian schnapps (from blueberry or plum or similar).

Which is the most romantic places to visit in Slovenia?

Bled, Piran.

Which are the local festivals one must come to attend in Slovenia?

There are a lot of culinary events and wine events throughout the year in whole Slovenia. For example, Cherry Festival in Goriska Brda, Fish fest on Slovenian coast, Beer & flower festival in an Eastern part of Slovenia, Ljubljana Festival, Ethnomusic festival in Bled.

The things that guidebooks will not tell anyone about?

Some things should remain unpublished for guests to discover them on their own during their visit.

According to you what is the best thing about Slovenia?

That everything is close, you can go to the mountains and to the coast on the same day. There is a lot of nature which gives you a sense of freedom. Water is clean and drinkable. Slovenia is also very diverse and one can do so many different things, there is something for everyone.

Check out our latest package on Slovenia

The Guest Who Walks in Zambia

By Srinivas Krishnan

There is an old jungle saying: “The tourist who walks deep into the bush understands the heart of Africa best.”
Apologies to Lee Falk and his famous comic creation, the Phantom, but we guess you understand the sentiment behind that ‘old jungle saying’. Because if you want to absorb the real wild Africa, you have to immerse yourself and be a part of the jungle, like our ancestors did for thousands of years. The only difference is that you can do it in great comfort and safety, with a dash of luxury.

It’s a different experience altogether compared to watching the bush unfold from the back of a vehicle. In a mobile walking safari, you are one with the vast sky, the distant horizons, the teeming wildlife, the lush flora, the untamed waters, the unpolluted air and the breath-taking sunsets. All your five senses are on a refined state of alertness, allowing you to take in the bush in its real state, where even seemingly insignificant sounds, smells and sights get highlighted. The flutter of a bird’s wing, the cry of an animal, the rustle in the grass, the distant sounds of water gushing, the smell of the earth… It’s like being inside a David Attenborough documentary! Sounds like an adventure, right?

The mobile walking safari in the unspoiled South Luangwa National Park in the beautiful, blessed and peaceful country of Zambia is a unique African adventure. The Park is unsullied and offers you Africa in its primal, natural form. The magic is because of the seasonal flooding that, with its ebbs and flows, makes it inaccessible by road. Consequently, there is a terrific concentration of game in this Park and it hosts some of the most varied collections of wildlife on this planet.

Centred in and around the Luangwa River, there are over 400 species of bird, large pods of hippos, as well as lion, leopard, elephant, unique zebra and giraffe species as well as the extremely endangered African wild dog. Now imagine walking through it, accompanied by a campsite that moves along with you. Of course, you will be accompanied by an experienced naturalist who will ensure you know and understand more than what you’d get by watching a documentary on the telly. You will be taught how to spot clues, hone your skills as well as use your senses to the fullest to truly discover the African bush. From tiny ants to humongous elephants, from understanding the intricacies of a bird’s nest to tracking a lion, you will experience the rawness of wild Africa the way it’s meant to be.

You must be thinking that’s fine during the day, but many of these animals are nocturnal. True. Which is why you can go on a drive in a specially customized vehicle which is equipped with a powerful spotlight – so you can witness the mighty cats and other animals in the darkness too.

Starting your trip at the ideally situated Nkwali Camp which has an excellent view of the Luangwa River, you begin your orientation of the African jungle. Your walking experience starts soon after, along the Mupamadzi river (which is a major tributary of the Luangwa), through remote parts of the park. The camps will be set and ready to welcome you from your walks through the bush. They are well-equipped with walk-in tents, with a shower under a tree while the toilet is a wooden throne with a long drop. Camping out in the open in the true African wilderness is an unmissable experience, especially at night with the vast sky and the countless stars to look up to… with the inimitable noises of the jungle providing the scene with a soundtrack!

Will the walks through the bush be strenuous? Well, if you are moderately fit, you should be able to accomplish the adventure with not much effort. Want to test it out rather easily? Try running for about 50 metres; if you can do it, then you are on! The walking safari, on the varied ground, averages about 10 km daily, but you have a staggering four hours to accomplish it. So it’s a decent pace, which allows you more time to observe and watch the real African bush.

But the walking safari is not only about giving your shoes a good work out. You get to relax and rest your weary legs at some very good spots. For instance, the Tena Tena camp, which is located in a remote section of the National Park, sits atop a sweeping bend of the Luangwa River. From the comfort of the camp, you can watch elephants, hippos and antelopes pretend as if you are not there. You will also get to spend some time at the Nsefu game camp, which was the first one to be set up in Zambia way back in the early 1950s. This one overlooks a waterhole, where you can observe game during the day and leopards in the night.

Sounds good? Come with us for the Walking Safari in Zambia – you can be our Guest Who Walks, who makes old jungle sayings come true!

Email: askus@thewanderers.co.in

Check out our package on Zambia : Zambia Package

An Insiders View on Andaman Islands

By Sherly Jerusha

White sandy beaches separate crystal clear azure waters from lush curtains of rain-forest green: this is nature at its best. With breathtakingly gorgeous coastline, lush forested interior, fantastic diving spots and a boundless location, the Andaman Islands are a perfect place to wander around or simply chill out at the beach side.

Q] One little-known fact that everyone should know when travelling to Andaman’s ?
Andaman has the most fascinating ecosystem – the coral reefs are spectacularly diverse with big crabs, large turtles, vibrant fish and extremely colorful species of butterflies, You will get to see it all.

Q] What is a must buy when in Andaman’s ?
Locally made cane handicrafts, wooden decorative items and accessories made from seashells or pearls are a must buy when in Andaman.

Q] What should one carry when travelling to Andaman’s ?
Loose fitting, light pastel color clothes, and suitable for wearing on the beach. Carry a pair of slipper too.

Q] Where should anyone, definitely get their picture taken when in Andaman’s ?
White sand & rain forest trees lend a tropical vibe to Radhanagar Beach which makes it a perfect spot for taking pictures. It is also one of the best beaches in Andaman.

Q] One thing to definitely pack when travelling to Andaman’s ? Pack a DSLR Camera to capture your memories as Andaman is filled with unexplored places.

Q] One activity anyone travelling to this region should not miss.
Diving and Snorkeling! Havelock Island is one of the most famous places for scuba diving and snorkeling in Andaman.

Q] Which are the restaurants to have local food?
All the seafood restaurant have their own specialty, so I would suggest you to explore and try out for yourself.

Q] Your favorite local dish and drink that you would recommend.
Try the local seafood like fish curries, chilly curry and different types of fish fry.

Q] One place only the locals would know.
Kalapathar beach which is situated on one corner of Havelock Island. The beach gets its name from the surrounding village, which is Kalapathar Village and the black rocks (known as Kalapathar in Hindi) that adorn the coastline here.

Q] A local festival you feel more travelers should come and see
Dashera & Deepawali are the festivals one must experience when in Andaman.

Q] The things guidebooks will not tell anyone about Andaman’s ?
Andaman is beautiful even when it rains. The monsoon paints a very different picture of nature’s beauty – one that needs to be seen to be experienced.

Q] In one sentence, Andaman’s is ..?
Andaman is a Gift of Heaven, and a bliss to all its visitors.

By Sherly Jerusha

Yangon: Adventure Next Door

By Abhik Dutta

Looking beyond the tried and tested South Asian countries for a quick escape ? Aching for a change of pace, a change of scene and yet want to go to a truly eye-opening destination ? Looking for an exciting destination in the neighbourhood ? Then look no further, Myanmar is the right place for you. Burma, or Myanmar as it is now known, is that little piece of Asia that has been left unexplored for such a long time. This recently democratized country has spent decades shut off from the rest of the world. Having only recently opened its borders to tourists, the country and its folks are welcoming people with both arms. This little undiscovered jewel of a country has something for everyone.

From untouched verdant forests to bustling cities, from century-old crafts to centuries-old Buddhist pagodas, Myanmar is the land waiting to be explored.

Landing in its ex-capital Yangon or Rangoon as it was previously known, will find you visiting the most spectacular Shwedagon Pagoda, which is said to have been built about 2500 years ago, to house heir that was given by the Buddha himself to two brothers. The gorgeous golden spire towers over the city of Yangon can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Moving on to Bagan, expect to be amazed at the over 3000 Buddhist pagodas that dot the Bagan landscape. Marvel at the beautiful sleeping Buddha or the absolutely beautifully carved standing Buddhas at the Anand Temple. Burma has a rich history of settlements, civilizations have flourished here for many centuries.

Kings have come, made their mark on this fertile land, thrived, built temples, pagodas, monasteries and been wiped out. The country has stood mute spectator to centuries of rulers. Once part of British India, the country has had to fight a long battle to be truly free, this has translated to a country that is both sheltered and welcoming at the same time. Throw in the magic of the unexplored territories, and unknown vistas that are yet to be discovered by the lay visitor, and you have an eye-opening experience awaiting.

If history is your thing then spend hours marvelling at the great architectural heritage of the country at the Museum. Or catch the mesmerising sunset over the Ayeyarwaddy against the backdrop of the beautiful pagodas. Burma of old, was always known to produce exquisitely handcrafted products. Shopping in Myanmar will allow you to buy centuries old lacquer work or Burmese silk. The gorgeous lotus silk is unique to Myanmar. The Burmese believe that wearing lotus silk can help prevent illness and brings good luck. Lotus root strands are woven together to make one of the most expensive fabrics in the world. It is soft, naturally stain resistant, waterproof, breathable and wrinkle-free, making it such a beautiful fabric to drape!!

Moving to Mandalay, a day excursion will find you staring across the oldest teakwood bridge in the world. The U Bein, built in 1850, made from reclaimed teak from an old palace, the measurement for this ancient bridge was done using footsteps. Imagine laying out 1086 pillars across a lake based on footstep measurements. If that doesn’t blow your mind, what will?

The leaning tower of Ava is the nickname given to what remains of an old palace whose official name is The Nanmyint Watch Tower. The intricately carved Bargayar Monastery boasts of teak pillars and jaw-dropping ancient carving. A great part of this trip is the ability to get in touch with both worlds, the world gone by and the world that is. Like seeing the world’s biggest bell, the Mingun Bell that is a short boat ride away from Mandalay, a craft hub. Myanmar is littered with unfinished pagodas and stupas, a mute spectator to the changing tides of rulers. Being a largely Buddhist country, there are many monasteries and pagodas that the trip will take you through.

You will find the largest book in the world at the Kuthodaw Pagoda. 729 slabs of marble on which the entire Theravada Buddhist Pali Canon is inscribed will be among the lasting images you will carry back from this gentle and beautiful land. Having had your fill of culture, the Pindaya Caves beckon. Here centuries of Buddhist statues have been placed forming a truly marvellous spectacle. And then the verdant forests of the Inle Lake, where generations of fishermen continue to live a life untouched by technology. Floating gardens that fill your heart with peace and calm. Local weavers and markets showcase their wares. This beautiful, if still unexplored land will fill your mind with peace, your heart with calm and humble you with its large heart. Monuments, history, temples, lakes and monasteries will touch you in ways that you won’t believe.

Don’t believe us ?

Come, try it for yourself !!

Then click here to read more about how to have an adventure of a lifetime…

https://thewanderers.travel/package/index/myanmar/bliss-in-burma

An Insider’s View on Bhutan

By Koustav Sarkar

Bhutan, The Land of the Thunder Dragon

Bhutan is a Buddhist kingdom on the Himalayas’ eastern edge, known for its monasteries, fortresses (or dzongs) and dramatic landscapes that range from subtropical plains to steep mountains and valleys. The country’s landscape ranges from lush subtropical plains in the south to the sub-alpine Himalayan mountains in the north. Bhutanese are environmental friendly and mainly focus on preserving their natural resources and rich culture. Bhutan ranks first in economic freedom, peace and is the least corrupted country in the world.

Q] Activity anyone travelling to this region should not miss?

There is so much to do when you’re in Bhutan, like archery, river rafting, hiking, but soaking yourself in a traditional Hot Stone bath is something one must experience when in Bhutan.

Q] One thing you must pack when travelling to Bhutan?

You definitely want to pack good walking shoes and warm clothes, as you will be using them a lot.

Q] Something that one must buy when they are in Bhutan?

Bhutan is known for its unique, rich hand-woven textiles and interesting painting styles. So one should definitely buy Bhutanese handicraft, gold and sliver jewellery, handmade wooden bowls, Buddhist paintings and sculptures. You can buy them at Thimphu, Paro and Phuntsheoling which are some of the major shopping centres in Bhutan.

Q] Which are the best places to capture memories when in Bhutan?

Some great picture spots are Tigers nest, Paro dzong and Punakha Suspension Bridge. Don’t forget to take amazing panoramic pictures at Buddha’s point, BBS tower, Dochula and Chelela.

Q] Any place to enjoy sunset/sunrise?

Dochula Pass is a mountain pass in the snow covered Himalayas within Bhutan, this place offers a 360-degree views of the Himalayas making every sunset and sunrise a surreal experience.

Q] The best place to try authentic local food?

Some of the best places to try authentic Bhutanese cuisine are The Folk Heritage Museum restaurant, Babesa Village restaurant and The Bhutanese which are all located in Thimphu.

Q] Which are the local delicacies which one must try when in Bhutan?

Ema datshi and Ara are famous Bhutanese curries which one must try. The local wine and beer here are good too.

Q] Which is the best time to visit Bhutan?

October to December is the best time to visit Bhutan.

Q] Any local festivals that a travellers must come visit?

Thimphu Tshechu is the biggest and the most vibrant festival which every traveller must visit when in Bhutan.

Q] Can you describe Bhutan in one sentence

Bhutan is vibrant and filled with culture.

Get Antarctica off your Bucket list Now!

By Alifiya Calcuttawala

To go boldly where no man has gone before!
If you are a Trekkie then this statement probably brings the same shiver of anticipation and
excitement down your spine that it did all those many years ago watching Captain Kirk explore
new galaxies on TV.
To embark on your own personal adventure, both inwards and to the last truly unexplored
continent, Antarctica.

Where the land lies under many feet of ice, huge glacial mountains reach for the sky, penguins,
sea lions and whales cavort in the icy cold sea, untouched by commercial tourism, and without
busloads of tourists jabbering in every language known to man. Antarctica.
Head off on your own Columbus-like exploration, brave cold winds, sea swells and rubber
dinghies, to make landfall. Antarctica.

Explore long forgotten whaling houses, abandoned science camps watch the only place on
earth where the countries of the world work with everyone else, in a spirit of togetherness.
If adventure is your thing, you crave solitude and enjoy the journey just as much as the
destination then Antarctica should have been on your bucket list.

But it is now time to take it off the list and move to experience the adventure of a lifetime.
This physically demanding trip requires a higher level of fitness than your usual run of the mill
cruise or holiday. Drills to help you in emergencies form part of your daily routine.
Unpredictable wind conditions coupled with the icy cold seas make it more of an extreme
adrenaline pumping adventure than a pleasure cruise. Physically demanding conditions,
temperatures below freezing, choppy and stormy seas just add to the allure of the journey.

The Antarctica adventure begins from the minute you board the ship. The icebreaker ship,
will be your home for the whole trip, making excursions aboard the all-weather Zodiac
to the last unexplored continent. Evenings will be spent learning more about the place you’re about to visit, watching movies, documentaries and listening to biologists share their knowledge with you!
Starting your journey through the scenic Beagle Channel, heading for the open South Atlantic
Ocean. You will cross the Tierra del Fuego or the Land of Fire before heading South on your
way to Antarctica.

Going through the Drake Passage, the South Shetland Islands come into view, moving between
Greenwich and Livingstone islands through Macfarlane Strait, landing on Half Moon Island
where the Argentinian Camara station is located, marking your first step on Antarctica!

Be prepared to be surprised by the Gentoo penguins and their babies, and fur seals
That will be the first of three or four landings across the whole trip. Imagine that! Going into
territories that were available only to explorers of old, men and women who took adventure to
the next level, with belief in their hearts, charting their course with the help of the stars to lands
they only saw with their eyes closed.

The whole idea of knocking this off your bucket list early is basically to make this entire trip
when you are resilient to deal with the vagaries of the weather, strong enough to acclimatise to
the biting cold and have enough chutzpah to give your friends FOMO.
The trip is said to be soul changing, and puts you in touch with yourself. If that is true, and it is,
wouldn’t you benefit from life changing experiences earlier in the day rather than later?
Finally, let’s face facts, if you don’t experience this fantastic journey now, then when…
because ultimately You Only Live Once!!

Check out our latest Antarctica Expedition.

Antarctica: A journey to the worlds end Day 8 – Day 10

By – Alifiya Calcuttawala

” A journey is a person in itself; no two are alike. And all plans, safeguards, policing, and coercion are fruitless. We find that after years of struggle that we do not take a trip, a trip takes us.” – John Steinbeck

Day 8: Monday, March 15^th2017

DRAKE PASSAGE, EN ROUTE TO TIERRA DEL FUEGO

WIND (AM): 5kn E– TEMP. (AM): 2ºC (partially cloudy)

WIND (PM): 5kn ENE– TEMP. (PM): 2ºC (partially cloudy)

The crossing resulted fairly easy so far, with a little wind and clouds. The feared Drake Passage is showing it’s effect from the remaining swell. After breakfast our guides started offering lectures again to help us understand what we had seen and dsicuss a little about what we experienced. In the meantime we were zipping along northbound, mildly rolling with a little wind coming across.

The Drake remained reasonable and we could even try to spot some more seabirds, maybe the last we would see for a while. Dinner was as good as usual, and most even managed to keep it all inside. As we exchanged stories about the days past, we realized that though we had all taken the same trip, our individual experiences varied quite a bit and it looked as if each of us had taken somewhat different journeys.

Day 9 :Tuesday, March 16^th2017

DRAKE PASSAGE – BEAGLE CHANNEL

Wake up call came as usual on our second day crossing the Drake. Reassured by the lack of major movement, we headed to the Dining Room to get some food. Early morning was spent chatting and downloading and selecting the many pictures we had taken throughout the trip. Our expedition staff once again offered educational activities and lectures.

The waters calmed down during the afternoon as we entered the sheltered area in the lee of Cape Horn and later the Beagle Channel.

In the afternoon, for the final recap the Expedition Staff had a surprise for us: A DVD containing the map of the journey, the wildlife checklist, note on some of the lectures, their bios, and a photo-show of pictures from the voyage.

At night we dressed up for the farewell dinner and we toasted goodbye, a very nice way to conclude an unforgettable journey.

After dinner we joined our fellow voyagers in the bar for a last drink on the ship. Of course we’d have plenty of time for that in Ushuaia, but it felt more like saying goodbye to the bar and the ambience we created around it than saying goodbye to each other.

Day 10: Wednesday, March 17^th2017

USHUAIA, ARGENTINA

LAT. 54°48′ S, LONG. 68°18′ W

Dawn lit the ending of our trip. We had returned the same but much different, changed somehow by having conquered a continent known by so few, loved by so many. The beauty we had experienced on the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands would stay with us. It was a memorable journey. After breakfast it was time to go. Fare thy well, USHUAIA, you explorer of the Ice!

Note: For a trip to Antarctica, contact The Wanderers.

Antarctica: A journey to the worlds end Day 5 – Day 7

By Alifiya Calcuttawala

Day 5 : Sunday, March 12th2017

PETERMANN ISLAND

LAT. 65°11’S LONG. 64°10’W

WIND (AM): 4kn variable – TEMP. (AM): 3ºC (partially cloudy)

VERNADSKY STATION (UKRAINE)/WORDIE HOUSE, ARGENTINE ISLANDS

LAT. 65°15’S LONG.64°16’W

LEMAIRE CHANNEL

WIND (PM): 1kn variable – TEMP. (PM): 3ºC (partially cloudy)

Once again it was, fortunately, a calm day with a beautiful morning. The ship was already positioned in the Penola Strait ready to allow us for a visit to Petermann Island. Though some icebergs might difficult our attempt to reach the island, we could step on the rounded rocks near the Argentine hut, named “Refugio Naval Groussac”, and proceed with the quest for Adelie penguins.

Some Fur Seals were already waiting ashore and, of course, lots of Gentoos too. Walking on icy snow and somewhat slippery rocks the staff showed us the way to see the penguins with the blackheads and the white ocular ring. Cormorants are nesting in the area as well. The visibility was very good and it was easy to reach the lookout point that has been offered on the southwestern end of the island. Skuas were always around the chicks that were being fed by the adult penguins. A gentle walk and time to admire the views of the peninsula across the Penola Strait consumed our morning and we had enough time to visit the island named after the German geographer August Petermann.

Once on board we enjoyed lunch and got prepared for a visit to a scientific Antarctic station from Ukraine called Vernadsky. Since the group had to be divided in two, we could also inspect a historic house, Wordie House, which in fact was the initial Base, precursor for the future UK Faraday station that operated until the early ‘90s. When the British government was looking forward to discontinue their activities there and dismantle the facilities in the Argentine Islands, they came across a request by the Ukarine authorities concerning their needs to develop Antarctic research and had an agreement to transfer the station from the UK to the Ukarine for just 1£ under the condition that the east European researchers would continue with the collection of data and research programs that the British scientists commenced several decades before.

The visit to the scientific station was a guided tour inside their working areas, offered by the different members of the Ukrainian staff, the meteorologist, the biologist, and the medical doctor, among others. Surprisingly it ended in the southernmost bar they have in the upper level of their main building, where they have a common area to rest. The base commander and his colleagues offered us some “homemade Vodka”, opened their Post Office for sending our post-cards, and sold some of their traditional items in the gift shop, while we were all having nice conversations with them. Our passports got a stamp too, which is a perfect reminder of our visit to the southernmost point of the trip.

At the end of the day, it looked possible to go so we would attempt to pass through this narrow and scenic opening limited by steep cliffs of rocky mountains and hanging glaciers.

This was a wonderful end of the day with the Lemaire Channel navigation and another spectacular sunset on the open ocean to the West. While having dinner the ship moved further North along the Gerlache strait for a new location of Antarctic explorations.

Day 6: Monday, March 13th2017

BROWN STATION, PARADISE BAY

640 54.7’S, 0620 52.3’ W

WIND (AM): 2kn SE– TEMP. (AM): 1ºC (cloudy)

FOYN HARBOUR

640 32.4’S, 0610 59.9’ W

LEMAIRE CHANNEL

WIND (PM): 30kn SE– TEMP. (PM): 2ºC (partially cloudy)

After a wonderful breakfast, we got prepared for our first continental landing! It was at the Argentinian base “Brown”, named after the Father of the Argentinian Navy, the Irish Admiral Guillermo Brown. Half of the group went on Zodiac cruising and the other half landed, taking turns afterwards. The scenic view, for that on land, delivered to some of us a couple of glacier breakings, while the others spent some time sledging on improvised tracks. Sarah received us on the top of a little cliff, showing us, for the first time, a Deschampsia Antarctica, one of the two native flowered plant species. She found also some larvae from a “wingless fly”, Belgica Antarctica, very tiny, under the rocks. During the zodiacs cruises around the Paradise Bay. We make use of all the information we had from the previous geology lecture and H-ice-story recap from the night before.

Slowly, the cloudy sky opened, letting wonderful warm sun rays to reach our faces. And during this so nice feeling, a new smell, that came revealed a surprise, an “asado” (barbequed meat) was being prepared: the ship has its own “parrilla” (where it was prepared).

As we sailed to Foyn Harbour, in between clouds and rain, we get to spot many Humpback whales, in different groups, showing us most of their physical displays, almost everywhere. The ship sailed in circles to let us keep on this observation activity. Zodiac sailing was possible, so we took turns for it.

More humpback whales, fur seals and icebergs. The staff showed us a 1915 shipwreck: the Governoren whaler’s ship. The stern was submerged, what it was still possible to see the wooden deck, some barrels and the exploding harpoons. It was incredibly preserved. Between the snow and more whales, we returned to the ship to have a hot chocolate. After we regained some energy, we had a short recap of tomorrow’s experience and the necessary briefing for the expected sailing. After dinner, some remained in the bar, and the exhausted went early to bed.

Day 7: Sunday, March 14th2017

TELEFON BAY – WHALERS BAY, DECEPTION ISLAND, SOUTH SHETLAND ISLANDS

LAT. 62°59’S LONG. 060°43’W

WIND (AM): 8kn N – TEMP. (AM): 0ºC (partially cloudy)

WIND (PM): 20kn NE– TEMP. (PM): 2ºC (partially cloudy)

Last day in Antarctica, almost last landing. Deception Island received us with a glorious entrance at sunrise. Through the Neptune’s Bellows, we sailed through up to Telefon Bay, near Foster Harbour. Deception Island is an active volcano, which erupted several times (1800, 1812, 1842, 1871, 1912, 1956, 1967, 1969 and 1970). This is the largest of three recent volcanic centres in the archipelago. Deception´s rim has an average elevation of 984 feet (300 meters), with its highest points at Mt. Pond to the east and Mt. Kirkwood to the southwest. Above 328 feet (100 meters) Deception´s cinder motif yields to glaciers and ash-covered ice, which reach the sea at many places along the coastline.

The landscape is full of volcanic rocks and sands, blacks and whites paint the scenery. We went hiking to one little hill, from which we spotted a hidden little lagoon and a couple of streams, which were born from a very dark glacier. It was strange, one felt a little desolated, with no animals nor plants to look at. Back at the ship, and after lunch, we could get prepared for a fantastic ‘momento’: the Antarctic Plunge at Whaler’s Bay, near the Bellow’s. Many of us wore a swimsuit for underwear, just in case. In the land long area, there used to be some buildings, which were initially used for whale’s oil extraction (and many other deeds with the rest of the whale’s body). It eventually becomes a British scientific station, and it was destroyed after the eruption between 1969 and 1970. The beach, station and its sorroundings were full of southern fur seals, which were pretty amazing. These animals seem to be peaceful and joyful, but if feeling at risk or get intimidated, they can sprint like a dog. And bite like one, too. Walking along the abandoned buildings and keeping safe distance, we returned to the landing point. Fumes all over the beach, due to the volcanic remanents underground, that heated the sand and water on hiding tides. When the tides begin to lower, steam arrises between the volcanic sand. And the expected materialized. The Plunge wasn’t for everyone, but those who dared will keep an unforgettable experience. The day ended with a windy and very cold evening. At night we sailed back towards the Drake Passage.