17 Comments

I can't wait to find out how the boots worked out!

Expand full comment

Trust me Ed, I was wondering the same thing myself!

Expand full comment

Are you sure this was a Chilean vessel? Given the strict operating guidelines, it sounds more like a German operation.

Expand full comment

Yes, it was Chilean. I fully researched the vessel's history, background, and ownership. Since I went to Antarctica, the Antarctic Dream has stopped doing expeditions. I did a virtual search on it about 10 days ago, and the ship was in the Arabian Sea at that time.

Many of the larger cruise lines are now offering excursions to Antarctica. However, it is my understanding that ships carrying more than 100 passengers are not allowed to dock anywhere, and the passengers have to stay on board. This, no doubt, is for environmental protection.

Bill, I am very thorough in the information I put in my substack. I research my information thoroughly and verify what I write. I want my readers to be able to "bank" on what I've written. I've found more errors in Wikipedia than you would ever believe! It's a good place to start, but I don't trust it as a real reliable source. AI is the worst! I get so much false information from AI that I rarely pay any attention to it.

I'm curious, what gives you the impression the operation is German?

Expand full comment

My apologies, Lois - I meant no offense. It was a lame attempt at a joke, given the very strict rules you described, including extensive use of mandatory actions and gear to be worn; German officials have a reputation for being sticklers.

Expand full comment

Lol! No offense taken at all, Bill. The humor went above my head… duh! But I get it now. :)

Since WWII, Germany has been the focal point of speculation, conspiracy theories, and unexplained activity in Antarctica. So, I overthought your question.

I suspect all the regulations are more about protecting the environment in Antarctica and maintaining health standards on the ship. The clothing provision probably has a lot to do with reducing their liability for taking onto land. They obviously have a lot stricter requirements than a big cruise ship that merely sails by everything and gives the passengers a running narrative.

L

Expand full comment

It sounds like a fascinating journey.

Expand full comment

Ok I’m anxiously waiting for the next posting!

Expand full comment

It's in the making. Girl, the story will sound familiar to you when you read it, I'm sure I told you about it. It was one the more memorable days in my travel life.

Expand full comment

How exciting! It sounds like a great trip filled with memories and it’s only just begun!

Expand full comment

Thanks Rod, It was one of my more memorable trips. Lots of adventures to follow.

Expand full comment

I look forward to hearing about them, Lois!

Expand full comment

Awesome adventure! That was a entertaining and educational read with fun vignettes of humor interspersed. I've always wanted to go on an Antarctic expedition, but it has always seemed out of reach, even though Auntie M and I go to Chile about every other year. Now I REALLY want to go! LOL.

How did you set up the trip? Looking forward to the next episode.

BTW, I can relate to being "one chosen one" as far as sea sickness. I always get to be the "special guest of honor" when it comes to alititude sickness.

Hope you enjoyed your Antarctic adventure.

Cheers

Expand full comment

Gonzo! You and Auntie M would love Antarctica. There's a special Penguin waiting to fly you over the Drake so you don't have to worry about seasickness as much. Darndest thing I ever have seen... I was always told that penguins don't fly and there it was! A flying Penguin!

Thank you for you kind comments. They really do mean a lot to me and I appreciate you reading my substack.

Expand full comment
Comment deleted
May 8
Comment deleted
Expand full comment

Socks? Socks in the boots? No entiendo.

Expand full comment
Comment deleted
May 9
Comment deleted
Expand full comment

I would need big wooly socks. Oh no! I'm allergic to wool. What a problem!

Expand full comment
Comment deleted
May 10
Comment deleted
Expand full comment

Bombas. If I ever need a pair of socks I'll get a pair. I confess, I don't like wearing socks... my feet prefer to go au-naturelle in sandals as much as possible. Texas climate is very accommodating to my idiosyncrasy.

Expand full comment