This past year my family and I traveled from New York to Florida, then from Florida to Buenos Aires, Argentina. While in Buenos Aires, my family and I stayed in a hotel where we met fellow tourists that were embarking on a National Geographic trip to Antartica. Two days later, everyone on the trip traveled to the southernmost tip of South America Ushuaia, Argentina.
From the second we left the United States I disconnected from all social media and connections with the world (not really by choice, but glad it happened). Although I was worried that I would be missing out on a lot back home, I thoroughly enjoyed taking a break and focusing on my family and surroundings. Nearly everyday we had a morning excursion and afternoon excursion, which consisted on a hike and a zodiac ride in the afternoon, but of course each day’s plans varied based on the location and weather.
The animals we encountered and how close we were able to get to them was crazy. I was able to see a penguin giving birth to a baby while the penguin is surrounded by thousands of other penguins. Other animals we saw nearly everyday include humpback whales, sea lions, and birds eating dead seals (!). While we were visiting the very first Antartica base, which is no longer in use, my mom and I witnessed a baby bird breaking out of its shell right at out feet! These types of experiences you are unable to have anywhere else in the world.
Stepping off of the National Geographic boat everyday and taking in the crisp air and complete silence of a part of the world where the only noise is from animals and not a single human.
Below are just a few photos from this memorable adventure that I will remember for the rest of my life.
galaxzie 