Summary: In this episode, host Robin Cline sits down with seasoned expedition leader Howard Whalen for an unparalleled exploration of the formidable waters and breathtaking landscapes of Antarctica. Howard, who brings decades of experience from both the Arctic and Antarctic, sheds light on the captivating challenges and awe-inspiring beauty that define journeys to the southernmost continent.

Key Topics:

• Navigating the Drake Passage
• : Delve into the notorious Drake Passage's turbulent waters, known for their strong currents and changing ocean depths. Howard explains how specialized ships mitigate the rough crossings.
• Diverse Antarctic Routes
• : Learn about the various travel routes to Antarctica, including the famous Ushuaia to Antarctic Peninsula route, and the forthcoming trips aboard the new ship Aurora from Australia to the Ross Sea and East Antarctica.
• Seasonal Travel Variations
• : Discover how travel timings impact exploration possibilities, such as journeys later in the season allowing for ventures past the Antarctic Circle.
• Unique Antarctic Landscapes
• : Compare the Western Antarctic Peninsula's steep, picturesque terrains with the Eastern Weddell Sea's grand, ice-laden, and desert-like landscapes.
• Wildlife Encounters & Historical Sites
• : Highlight key wildlife hotspots, particularly South Georgia's teeming colonies of penguins and seals, and integrate striking historical narratives surrounding the Falkland Islands.
• Memorable Expeditions
• : Relive Howard's unforgettable experiences, including orca sightings and serendipitous fossil field explorations, emphasizing the spirit of discovery in expedition travel.
• Importance of Flexibility
• : Discuss the essential need for flexibility in polar expeditions due to unpredictable weather and ice conditions, and how it can lead to unexpected yet extraordinary experiences.
• Experience of Ice Formations
• : Admire the ethereal beauty of polar ice formations, with distinct sizes, colors, and sounds, offering a treasured and unique sensory experience.
• Air vs. Sea Travel to Antarctica
• : Analyze the pros and cons of flying to Antarctica versus crossing by sea, providing insights for travelers with varying time constraints.

Personal Reflections:

• Howard’s Professional Journey
• : Learn about Howard's unique career trajectory, from journalism at Australian Geographic to leading polar expeditions, and the milestones that shaped his path.

Thanks for joining us on today’s episode of The Intrepid Traveler podcast! If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate and review our show to help us reach even more aspiring travelers. Don’t forget to check out our website, visit us on Facebook, Instagram or follow us on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on our latest epic travel adventures!

Use the following links when planning your own travel!

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Episode Summary: Join Robin on a solo adventure as she recounts her fascinating journey through the Arctic Circle. This episode serves as a prelude to an upcoming interview with a seasoned expedition traveler who's explored the polar regions extensively. Robin shares her experiences, from navigating the unique geography and cultural complexity of the Arctic to encountering its incredible wildlife and landscapes.

Topics Covered:

• Understanding the Arctic and its distinction from Antarctica
• Overview of the Arctic's geography, including its various regions and territories
• First stop: Longyearbyen in Svalbard, Norway – A coal mining community
• Challenges and logistics of reaching the Arctic, including flights and pre-expedition preparation
• Life onboard an expedition ship and dealing with unpredictable itineraries
• The surprising beauty and wildlife of the Arctic: polar bears, birds, seals, and whales
• Arctic gear essentials: clothing and equipment for surviving the cold
• Unexpected experiences: walking on ice flows, 24 hours of daylight, and educational lectures onboard
• A detour to Iceland's western fjords and Vigur Island, including an introduction to eiderdown farming and puffin colonies
• Final thoughts and future travel plans: Antarctica, the Galapagos, and the Kimberley in Australia

Key Takeaways:

• Traveling in the Arctic requires careful planning, flexibility, and appropriate gear.
• The Arctic is a unique and breathtaking destination, offering unparalleled wildlife encounters and natural beauty.
• Expedition travel is different from regular cruising, with an emphasis on education, exploration, and adaptability.
• The adventure doesn’t end in the Arctic; there are many more expedition destinations to explore.

Resources Mentioned:

• Svalbard, Longyearbyen: Information on the history and culture of this Arctic community
• Aurora Expeditions: More about the Sylvia Earle ship and expedition travel options
• Vigur Island, Iceland: Exploring eiderdown farming and puffin colonies

Stay tuned for our next episode, where Aurora sits down with a special guest who has spent a lifetime exploring the polar regions. They'll dive deeper into what it takes to thrive in some of the most extreme environments on Earth. Plus, Aurora will share her adventures in New Zealand, a land teeming with its own unique brand of adventure and natural splendor.

Thanks for joining us on today’s episode of The Intrepid Traveler podcast! If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate and review our show to help us reach even more aspiring travelers. Don’t forget to check out our website, visit us on Facebook, Instagram or follow us on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on our latest epic travel adventures!

Use the following links when planning your own travel!

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Hey there, travelers! We’ve got a treat for you in this episode. Our favorite travel expert, Dori Saltzman, is back! You know her for her cruise insights, but now she’s talking about her first mystery novel, "Death of a Travel Advisor." Join us as we chat about her journey from travel editor to author, and get the lowdown on her book.

Robin warmly welcomes back Dori, who shares her exciting new role as an author. Dori tells us all about "Death of a Travel Advisor," the inspiration behind it, and what it’s been like writing since 2009. Meet Gabby, the main character, and dive into an intriguing cruise ship mystery. Plus, hear about the upcoming prequel that digs deeper into Gabby's life and another suspenseful story.

We also break down what fam trips are and highlight the key differences between travel agents and travel advisors. Dori even included some awesome resources in her book to help you find the perfect travel advisor.

Want to grab Dori’s book? It’s available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Target—pretty much anywhere you get your books. And if you do, snap a pic of your copy on vacation and share it! Robin’s planning to get a photo with her copy at Hobbiton in New Zealand.

Big thanks to Dori for joining us again and sharing her insights. We can’t wait for her next book, so stay tuned for its release next July!

If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe, like, and share the podcast. Have a story or suggestion? Email us at letsgo@clinteandcotravel.com.

Previous Episodes with Dori Saltzman:

From All-Inclusive Resorts to Arctic Journeys with Dori Saltzman

Navigating the Seas of Luxury: Dori Saltzman's Expertise in Cruise Travel

Thanks for joining us on today’s episode of The Intrepid Traveler podcast! If you enjoyed today’s episode, please rate and review our show to help us reach even more aspiring travelers. Don’t forget to check out our website, visit us on Facebook, Instagram or follow us on LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on our latest epic travel adventures!

Use the following links when planning your own travel!

TRAVEL INSURED INTERNATIONAL

MEDJET

VIRTUOSO

PROJECT EXPEDITION