Blog Post

My Antarctica Adventure!

Travel Masters • Mar 30, 2023

Bucket List Trip!

I recently had the opportunity to go on one of my Bucket List trips to Antarctica! It was an amazing adventure, and I wanted to share it so you can add this incredible destination to your Bucket List soon.

I was accompanied by one of my favorite travel buddies, my 20-year-old daughter, Regan. We decided to head down a day early since I recommend that to all my clients. You really don’t want any flight issues to cause you to miss the boat. We arrived in Buenos Aires early in the morning and hit the ground running! We had a private day-tour of the city and got to tour the Recoleta Cemetery where First Lady Eva Peron is buried. We saw the colorful La Boca neighborhood and attended a tango show with delicious Argentinian beef and wine, and delightful local artists.

The next morning we had a short 3 and a half hour charter flight to Ushuaia. This was arranged by the cruise company, so we didn’t have to do anything other than check in at the airport. Next time, I would like to spend more time in Ushuaia because it was simply gorgeous. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the Beagle Channel, this town is nicknamed “The End of the World” and is the gateway to Patagonia.

Once in Ushuaia, we boarded the ship for our 9-night journey to the White Continent! The first two days are spent crossing the dreaded Drake Passage. You can get lucky and have the Drake Lake, or not so lucky and have the Drake Shake! We got lucky, and the captain told us it was the calmest crossing you could hope for. Waves were still 30 – 40 feet and many people were getting seasick (Regan included). I spent the days checking out the ship and attending many of the lectures onboard given by members of the expedition team. There were many informative sessions on whales, birds of Antarctica, the sled-dogs of Antarctica, how to properly use binoculars (that are supplied free-of-charge in every cabin for use during the cruise). There were also a few mandatory sessions from IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) going over all the rules and regulations for visiting Antarctica. There are a bunch, but the main disappointing rule is no hugging a penguin. Not even if they want one!

Visiting Antarctica is heavily regulated, for good reason. Only boats carrying less than 500 people are allowed to disembark and go on land. Only 100 people are allowed on any site at one time, and there must be 1 hour break between groups. You must disinfect your boots (that are provided by the ship) and any walking sticks or tripods that touched the ground. You are not allowed to sit, kneel, or lay on the ground. During the lectures they talked about how not to disturb “penguin highways” and how far away to stay away from the wildlife. They are very concerned about Avian Flu, so are being extra precautious. Antarctica is a very pristine environment and they are hoping to keep it that way for as long as possible. They stressed the 3 main rules for visiting Antarctica: flexibility, flexibility and flexibility!

We arrived at the South Shetland Islands on the afternoon of day 3, but the weather was not cooperative, so we kept going and finally the next afternoon the weather cleared up and we were able to have a Zodiac Exploration of Cierva Cove. We saw large colonies of Antarctic Terns and giant Albatross. There were Gentoo penguin colonies, seals swimming in the water, pods of orca whales, and giant icebergs that we were able to sail around and get up close to. It was a glorious first glimpse at this amazing place!

The next morning we were able to explore Jougla Point, home to a LOT of gorgeous little Gentoo penguins, whale bones, and just across the bay from Port Lockroy, the Antarctica Post Office! Due to the weather, we were only able to explore one place that day, but it was definitely worth it. The next day the sky cleared up and we were able to take a Zodiac cruise around Foyn Harbor where we saw fur seals, leopard seals, lots more bird colonies, and a shipwreck.

That afternoon, with an iceberg floating by, and a gentle fall of snow, 106 out of the 164 passengers onboard participated in the POLAR PLUNGE! The water was 31 degrees, and we were in our bathing suit, strapped into a bungee cable, and walked down the gang-plank to jump into the icy cold water! Afterwards, we were walked back up and given shots of tequila to warm the blood. It was an amazing experience that we will not soon forget, and they even gave everyone who participated a certificate. The ship also had a professional photographer taking pictures of everyone and sent them to us after we got back home. Later that afternoon was our first continental landing, on Portal Point. We all took pictures with an Antarctica flag, and saw a sleeping seal up close.

The next morning we got a phone call that we had moved off the waitlist for the kayaks, but I wanted to go ashore, so Regan went with the group. It turned out to be the kayak trip of a lifetime, as their group followed a mama and 2 baby humpback whales for over 2 hours, watching them breach and hearing their incredible whale call! I went on the continent again at Neko Harbor and just enjoyed the surroundings. Watching the penguins waddle by, hearing the loud cracks of the ice calving, listening to the whale sounds in the harbor, it was a day I will never forget. That afternoon we had one last stop, at Danco Island. It had turned into a beautiful sunny day and the penguins were out in full force, we even got to see a little fluffy baby that hadn’t molted yet.

All too soon, it was time to head back through the Drake Passage (another smooth crossing) and head home. We got into Ushuaia earlier than expected so were able to get off the ship and walk around and explore and eat dinner in town. The next day we started the long journey home. This trip was absolutely the trip of a lifetime and I encourage everyone to put this destination at the very top of your list of places to visit. I will definitely go back to visit my lovely little penguin friends.

< Older Post

Mail

Last Call for Cozumel!

By Travel Masters • 26 Jan, 2022

Don't miss out on our Cozumel trip in March! We have 2 spots left. Get out of the cold weather and enjoy the beach or the pool and get some relaxing dives in. Call us today to reserve your spot!

Passport Prices Have Gone Up

By Travel Masters • 07 Jan, 2022

Effective December 27, 2021, the price of US passport books increased by $20 for all customers. The new pricing for a first-time or replacement adult passport will be $1 65; a renewal will be $130 and the expedited fee will remain $60. The State Department said the increase is necessary to “ensure we continue to produce one of the most secure travel and identity documents in the world.” he good news is that soon Americans will be able to renew their passports online. This means you will no longer need to send in physical documents and paper checks through the mail, and it should speed up the renewal process. The online renewal process could take between 6 – 12 months to take effect, so for now, you still have to use snail mail. There has been a backlog in processing passports due to the pandemic, but as of October, the State Department said wait times were between 8 – 11 weeks, or 5 – 7 weeks for expedited services.

Travel Destination Updates

By Travel Masters • 24 Mar, 2021

COVID-19 Protocols for Travel Destinations If you are ready to travel, there are plenty of countries open. Some countries are opening to vaccinated travelers only such as Iceland. Let Travel Masters help you navigate the new travel protocols for you! The Bahamas – Open to US and Canadian citizens. Negative PCR test required for entry. Required to complete online Bahamas Health Travel Visa application and submit proof of a negative PCR test taken 5 days prior to arrival. If your stay is longer than 5 days, you must take a rapid test on day 5. You also must opt-in for travel insurance during the visa application process. Belize – Open to US and Canadian citizens. COVID testing on arrival for travelers who show symptoms. You are required to download and complete a Belize Health App and submit proof of a negative PCR test within 72 hours of your flight. You must stay at a Gold Standard hotel and present confirmation on arrival. You can skip the PCR test if you have completed the vaccination at least 2 weeks prior to arrival. Curacao – Open to US and Canadian citizens. You are required to complete the Digital Immigration card via the Curacao Entry Portal and digitally complete the Passenger Locator Card within 48 hours of departure. Visitors must submit proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel and carry printed test documentation. Travel insurance for medical care and additional costs is required. Dominican Republic – Open to US and Canadian citizens. Rapid testing will be performed on randomly selected travelers on arrival. All travelers will have temperature checks upon arrival and those who test positive are required to quarantine in a designated hotel area and undergo regular testing until symptoms end. The DR is providing free health and travel insurance coverage through March 31 covering hospitalization for COVID contracted within the country. Dominica – Open to US and Canadian citizens. You must present clearance to travel via Discover Dominica website within 24 hours of departure. Visitors will undergo health assessment and temperature check on arrival. You will be required to quarantine at a certified “Safe in Nature” property. Hawaii – Open to US and Canadian citizens. You will need proof of a negative COVID test uploaded to the Safe Travels Hawaii online form in order to bypass the 10 day quarantine requirement. You must take the COVID test within 72 hours from the final leg of departure. Only tests from trusted testing and travel partners are accepted. In some counties, a second test after arrival is required. For Kaua’I, you must quarantine for 10 days, there is no test exemption. There are also specific requirements for inter-island travel, depending on the islands. Puerto Rico – Open to US and Canadian citizens. You must complete an online Travel Declaration Form from the Puerto Rico Health Department and show proof of a negative COVID test. Jamaica – Open to US and Canadian citizens. Travelers are required to submit a Travel Authorization document no more than 5 days prior to arrival. You will be notified of approval to enter Jamaica via email and will be required to present authorization at check-in to board your flight. You are also required to present proof of a negative COVID or antigen test no more than 5 days prior to departure and provide test results at check-in. Mandatory “Jamaica Cares” insurance coverage is required ($40 per person). St. Lucia – Open to US and Canadian citizens. You must complete a pre-arrival registration form. Arriving passengers will have screening and temperature checks. You will be transferred by certified taxi to approved accommodations. Guests are required to remain on property except to participate in hotel-booked water-based excursions. St. Martin (St. Maarten) – Open to US and Canadian citizens. Travelers must complete an online Self-Health Declaration form and submit proof of a negative COVID test obtained within 120 hours of departure. There are temperature checks on arrival. Turks and Caicos – Open to US and Canadian citizens. Travelers are required to apply online for TCI Travel Authorization via the “Travel Assured” program prior to departure and present it at check-in for your flight. You must also provide proof of a negative PCR test performed within 5 days of arrival. Travel insurance is required covering COVID related medical treatment, quarantine costs and medical evacuation. USVI – Open to US and Canadian citizens. Travelers must register via the USVI Travel Screening Portal and submit proof of a negative PCR or rapid antigen test result received within 5 days of travel.

Travel Updates

By Travel Masters • 04 Mar, 2021

We just wanted to share some important travel updates with you, as places slowly begin to reopen. REAL ID – This was postponed from last year, but beginning October 1, 2021, everyone will need a REAL ID to travel on domestic flights. REAL ID compliant driver’s licenses will have a marking in the top portion of the card, either a gold or black star, a gold or black circle with a star cut out, or a gold bear with a star cut out (CA). You can also use a passport as ID for domestic travel. Passports – Passport operations have resumed, although they are still experiencing significant delays due to the unprecedented mail volume and other COVID impacts on the postal service. The current turnaround time is estimated at 10 – 12 weeks. Expedited service is available for an additional $60 and you should have your passport back in 4 – 6 weeks. You can only apply in person in case of life or death emergency or urgent travel, but it must be within 72 hours of travel, and you will need an appointment. COVID Testing for US – Anyone traveling overseas will need a COVID test (molecular NAAT or antigen) within 3 days of your return to the US. Even if you have had the vaccine, you will still need to provide negative test results for your return flight. Wanna Get Away? Here are some of the countries that are currently open for travel and diving… Bahamas – Negative PCR test required within 5 days of arrival, and again on day 5 of your trip Belize – Belize no longer requires a negative PCR test to enter IF you can show proof of immunization at least 2 weeks prior to arrival. Costa Rica – No testing required to enter the country, must have travel insurance to cover quarantine in case you test positive for your return to the US Roatan – Negative PCR or rapid test required 72 hours prior to entering the country. Maldives – Negative PCR test required 96 hours prior to departure. Mexico – No testing required to enter the country USVI – Negative COVID test required to enter, no test required to return to US Are you ready to book your next adventure?

New CDC Guidelines for Returning to the US

By Travel Masters • 14 Jan, 2021

The CDC has issued new guidelines this week for passengers returning to the US. Beginning on January 26, 2021, anyone (age 2 and up) returning to the United States from another country will have to show proof of a negative test (NAAT or antigen test) before boarding their flight. The test must be taken within 3 days of departure and you will need to show documentation (written or electronic) to the airline. Anyone who previously had COVID can show official proof that they have recovered, which is a positive COVID test result from the last 3 months and a letter from a health care provider that states they are cleared for travel. If you decline to take a test, or do not have proof of results, you will not be allowed to board. If you have a positive result, or even a negative result but still have COVID symptoms, you will not be allowed to board. Even if you have had the vaccine, you will still need a negative COVID test. Once you are home, the CDC recommends that you take another test within 3 – 5 days and limit your movements for at least 7 days even if your test is negative. Lots of resorts that Travel Masters works with already have plans to have testing available on site. These will be available at an extra cost (most resorts are only charging their cost for the test). If you have any questions about the testing requirements please speak to us today! https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/testing-international-air-travelers.html

Aloha Austin!

By Travel Masters • 11 Dec, 2020

Who is ready for some good news in 2020? Hawaiian Airlines announced this week that it will start flying non-stop between Austin and Honolulu beginning on April 21, 2021. Tickets are already on sale for the twice weekly flights. Flights will arrive in Austin on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and depart from Austin on Thursdays and Sundays. Currently, Austin is one of the largest US cities that doesn’t have a non-stop flight option to Hawaii, and that’s what appealed to the airline. It will be Hawaiian Airlines first market in the south-central US. There are COVID travel regulations currently in place, but we will be monitoring them for any changes that come up before the first flight takes off!

Advising Services

By Travel Masters • 02 Oct, 2020

Travel Masters offers advising services ! Do you have a trip you booked on your own and now you are a little in over your head? It ok, it happens! Travel can be overwhelming with all the details. Maybe you have a question about flights and the international date line. We are here for you! Give us a call. Our advising services start at $50/hr.

Tales from a Traveler

By Travel Masters • 02 Oct, 2020

Last weekend my husband and I, along with his parents, went to Chicago. It was our first mid-COVID trip, so I thought I would share our travel experience with you! We arrived extra early, just in case there were extra security or cleaning measures in place. And it was a good thing since my father-in-law lost his key fob and couldn’t get his car to lock! Always get to the airport early, people – you never know what will happen! We used the self check-in kiosk for Southwest Airlines. You can use the Southwest App to download your boarding pass so you don’t have to deal with paper. We didn’t check any bags, so we proceeded to security. My husband and I have TSA Pre-check so we were able to breeze through security. The TSA officer asked us to lower our mask so he could verify our face with our ID. Other than that, everyone in line wore their mask the whole time. There weren’t many people waiting in the gate area, so we were able to spread out some. Most of the restaurants were closed, so we had to walk a ways to find something to eat. When it came time to board, they only allowed 10 people to queue up at a time. Once those 10 were on board the airplane, they called the next group of 10. It went pretty quickly, and we were on board in no time. Right now, Southwest isn’t filling the middle seats, so we were lucky to get the exit row, and have a window and aisle seat to ourselves! During the flight, the flight attendants brought cups of water and snacks to everyone, and collected the trash afterwards. Masks must be worn during the flight, except when you are eating or drinking. Disembarking was like the good old days, where everyone stood up as soon as we docked at the gate, but most people observed good social distance from the people around them as they were leaving the plane. We all felt safe, and felt like everyone was doing their part to social distance and wear masks. I would not hesitate to travel again soon. Like, maybe next week! Stay tuned!

Gift Certificates

By Travel Masters • 02 Oct, 2020

Travel Masters offers gift certificates ! They are available in any amount and they do not expire. Click here to purchase a gift certificate today. Please put Gift Certificate in the Invoice Number field and let us know the recipient's name. We will then email you an electronic gift certificate that you can email or print out for your best travel buddy. Gift certificates make great gifts!

Happy Shark Awareness Day!

By Travel Masters • 14 Jul, 2020

Nautilus Liveaboards welcomed their first divers in over 3 months this week! They spent their time off being very productive, and did a massive refit, overhaul and refurbishment of the Belle Amie. Not only did the entire ship get a fresh coat of paint, but the engines were overhauled, machinery was taken apart and inspected, the interior was renovated, and safety and fire systems were renewed and rectified. The crew also went through extensive training in COVID 19 cleaning processes and protocols. They have also installed touchless hand washing stations throughout the ship and hired hospital staff to pre-screen all guests and crew prior to boarding. The first day back in the water, a giant manta was sighted at La Reyna! Nautilus Belle Amie offers 3 unique destinations, Socorro, Guadalupe Island and the Sea of Cortez. At Socorro you can find giant mantas, humpbacks, wild pelagic dolphins and up to 10 species of sharks. Sea of Cortez offers wreck diving, and the UNESCO Marine Park Cabo Pulmo which is teeming with huge schools of fish, sea lions, bull sharks and tiger sharks. Guadalupe Island offers cage diving with great whites with at least 3 dives a day in deep-diving submersible cages. Guadalupe Great White Shark Season starts soon! Over 365 different great whites identified so far! Nautilus is offering a great deal on the season opener with rates starting at $1995. Call us today, space is limited!