• Menu
  • Menu

Blog

Antarctica (Jan 2011)

Antarctica is Earth’s southernmost continent, centered on the South Pole and almost entirely covered by ice. It is the coldest, driest, and windiest continent, yet one of the most scientifically important. Despite its harshness, Antarctica plays a crucial role in regulating the planet’s climate and sea levels, as its ice sheet holds the majority of Earth’s freshwater reserves.

Unlike other continents, it has no permanent residents. Instead, international scientific research stations host rotating teams studying climate change, astronomy, glaciology, and wildlife. Its ecosystem, while fragile, includes penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds, making it a unique wilderness. Protected by the Antarctic Treaty System, the continent is reserved for peace, science, and conservation, with tourism carefully regulated.

Departure Port – Ushuaia, Argentina

Our Research Ship

Expeditions

Amazing Penguins

Camping on Antarctica

Polar Plunge!!

Leopard Seals & Sea Lions

Port Lockroy

Whales

Orcas

Facts & Details about Antarctica

  • Size: ~14 million km² (5.4 million sq mi) → 5th largest continent
  • Ice Coverage: ~98% covered by ice; stores ~70% of Earth’s freshwater
  • Population: 1,000 (winter) to 5,000 (summer) scientists & staff — no permanent inhabitants
  • Climate:
    • Avg. winter temp: −60°C (−76°F)
    • Coldest ever: −89.2°C (−128.6°F) at Vostok Station (1983)
  • Geography: East Antarctica (higher, larger), West Antarctica (smaller, less stable ice sheet)
  • Wildlife: Emperor & Adélie penguins, Weddell & leopard seals, orcas, humpback & blue whales, krill (keystone species)
  • Governance: Antarctic Treaty (1959) — signed by 56 nations, prohibits military activity & resource exploitation
  • Tourism: ~55,000 visitors per year (mostly via cruise ships, guided landings)
  • Unique Fact: Antarctica is a polar desert—its interior receives less precipitation than the Sahara Desert.

Belize & Diving the Blue Hole (March 2007)

Belize is a small Central American nation nestled between Mexico and Guatemala, with its eastern coast opening onto the Caribbean Sea. It’s the only English-speaking country in Central America and is known for its lush rainforests, Mayan ruins, and one of the world’s most stunning marine ecosystems. Belize’s barrier reef — the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site — is the second largest in the world, teeming with coral gardens, tropical fish, and crystal-clear waters ideal for diving and snorkeling. Inland, visitors can explore ancient Mayan cities such as Caracol and Xunantunich, float through underground cave systems, or trek through wildlife-filled jungles that are home to jaguars, howler monkeys, and exotic birds. The laid-back culture, Creole and Garifuna influences, and eco-conscious tourism make Belize a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

I went on this trip with Bill Gilmore, Chip Mann, Michael Smitherman, & Turgay Uzer and we were celebrating my 40th Birthday!

Diving the Blue Hole

The Great Blue Hole, located off the coast of Belize near Lighthouse Reef, is one of the most iconic natural wonders in the world. This massive marine sinkhole measures about 300 meters (984 feet) across and over 120 meters (394 feet) deep. It was formed thousands of years ago during the last Ice Age, when rising sea levels flooded a vast limestone cave system. Today, it presents a perfectly circular deep-blue void surrounded by lighter turquoise shallows — a breathtaking sight both from the air and underwater. For scuba divers, it offers a surreal experience descending past dramatic stalactites and limestone formations, often in the company of reef sharks and groupers. While the deeper levels are mainly for advanced divers, scenic flights and snorkeling excursions from Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker allow everyone to witness its beauty.

More Diving…

Jungle Tour with baby Leopard

Petra, Jordan (2004)

Petra is an ancient city carved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs in southern Jordan, about 3 hours south of Amman. Known as the “Rose City” for its pinkish hue at sunrise and sunset, it is one of the New Seven Wonders of the Worldand a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.

Petra combines natural beauty, architectural genius, and ancient mystery. Its rock-hewn temples and tombs are a testament to Nabataean engineering — a city literally carved into stone. It remains Jordan’s most famous attraction and a symbol of the country’s rich heritage.

History & Significance

  • Founded: Around the 4th century BCE by the Nabataeans, an Arab trading people who controlled major caravan routes between Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean.
  • Peak: Between the 1st century BCE and 2nd century CE, Petra was a thriving metropolis of trade, culture, and architecture — famous for its sophisticated water systems and monumental tombs.
  • Decline: After trade routes shifted and a series of earthquakes, Petra was largely abandoned by the 7th century CE. Western explorers “rediscovered” it in 1812.

Main Highlights

  1. The Siq – A dramatic, narrow gorge (about 1 km long) flanked by towering cliffs, serving as the main entrance.
  2. The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) – Petra’s most iconic monument, intricately carved into the rock, originally a Nabataean royal tomb.
  3. The Street of Facades – Rows of impressive rock-cut tombs and houses.
  4. The Theatre – Carved entirely into the mountain, seating up to 4,000 spectators.
  5. The Royal Tombs – Majestic multi-story facades overlooking the valley.
  6. The Monastery (Ad-Deir) – Larger but similar in style to the Treasury; a 45-minute uphill climb rewards visitors with incredible views.
  7. High Place of Sacrifice – A hike to one of Petra’s highest points with panoramic views of the entire site.

Visitor Experience

  • Entry: Through the Siq on foot, horseback, or by electric cart.
  • Timing: Best visited early morning or late afternoon when the rock glows red-gold.
  • “Petra by Night”: A candlelit experience offered on select evenings — magical views of the Treasury under starlight.
  • Duration: Ideally 1–2 days to explore the main site and hiking trails.

Location & Access

  • Nearest town: Wadi Musa (the modern gateway to Petra).
  • Distance: ~240 km (150 mi) from Amman; ~125 km (78 mi) north of Aqaba.
  • Transport: Car, tour bus, or organized excursion; most cruises docking at Aqaba offer day trips to Petra.

Montevideo, Uruguay (2003)

Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, is a relaxed yet sophisticated coastal city that blends European charm with South American warmth. Nestled along the wide Río de la Plata, Montevideo is known for its laid-back pace, elegant architecture, and rich cultural scene — all set against a stunning waterfront that stretches for more than 13 miles (22 kilometers) along the Rambla, the city’s scenic coastal promenade.

Buenos Aires, Argentina (2003)

Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is often called the “Paris of South America” for its grand European architecture, wide boulevards, and passionate cultural life. Set along the Río de la Plata, the city blends old-world elegance with a distinctly Latin rhythm, making it one of the most dynamic and cosmopolitan cities in the Americas. Overall, Buenos Aires is a city of contrasts — where European elegance meets Latin emotion, where tango and football stir the soul, and where every neighborhood tells a different story of Argentina’s vibrant identity.