Arctic vs Antarctica

Staying at home during Covid has given me more time to research this beautiful planet we live on. As such I found that people were confused about the differences between the Arctic and Antarctica (some thought they were both the same!) so I thought it would be cool (pardon the pun) to post about their differences. 

Though both are snow filled areas, there is a difference between Arctic and Antarctic. The Arctic and the Antarctic show differences in their environment, weather, animal and plant life, human activity, and the like. It is important to note that Antarctica is a continent surrounded by the world’s stormiest seas whereas the Arctic is an ocean with the masses of other lands in the circle. A belt of floating mass of ice debris called the ice pack surrounds the continent of Antarctica. In other words, Arctic and Antarctic can be defined as regions related to North and South poles. It is interesting to note that the Arctic region was found long before the Antarctic region was found.

What is the Arctic?

When you look at the globe, Arctic is the region on the top-most corner of the world. The Arctic is characterized by the blowing of mild winds. Also, while the Antarctic region is covered with snow all thorough the year, the Arctic lands generally have a summer, free from ice and snow.

Arctic and Antarctic differ a lot when it comes to the human activity and animal and plant life existent on them. The Arctic region has towns and other living places. It has indigenous people such as Inuits, Indians and Siberians. Arctic is characterized by the presence of the Eskimos and the Igloos. When it comes to animal behavior, you would find fierce animals in the Arctic region. Polar bears are seen in plenty in the arctic region. Not only Polar bears, other terrestrial animals or land animals such as wolves, foxes, hares, reindeer, lemmings and oxen can also be seen in the Arctic region. Other than polar bears, there are other marine mammals such as whales, seals and walrus in the artic.

The Arctic region is also characterized by the presence of trees such as Tundra and flowering plants. Also, the region is devoid of masses of algae.

What is Antarctica?

When you look at the globe, Antarctica is the region on the bottom-most corner of the world. Antarctica is characterized by the blowing of strong winds. This is the reason why the Antarctic region is considered colder and windier than the Arctic region. Antarctica is covered by ice throughout the year, less than 5% of Antarctica is free of ice.

Antarctica has remained an unpopulated area throughout history. It is devoid of towns and living places. It does not have indigenous people nor have any large land animals. But, the Antarctica region is qualified by the presence of marine mammals such as penguins, whales and seals. It is interesting to note the difference in the behavior of animals of the Arctic and the Antarctica regions. Animals found on the Antarctica region are calm in nature. Also the Antarctic region has no trees. But, masses of algae can be found in the Antarctic region. However, nowadays, scientists have impermanent camps in Antarctica.

What is the difference between the Arctic and Antarctica?

• The Arctic is the region on the top-most corner of the globe while Antarctica is at the bottom most corner. That is Arctic is at the North pole and Antarctica is at the South pole.

• Antarctica is a continent surrounded by the world’s stormiest seas. Also, a belt of floating mass of ice debris called the ice pack surrounds the continent of Antarctica.

• On the other hand, the Arctic is an ocean with the masses of other lands in the circle. It is surrounded by Greenland, Canada, and Russia.

• The Arctic has indigenous people such as Inuits, Indians and Siberians, but Antarctica remains unpopulated. Nowadays, scientists have impermanent camps in Antarctica.

• Arctic has a large range of marine and terrestrial animals such as whales, polar bears, wolves, etc., but Antarctica does not have any large land animals.

• However, the Antarctica region is qualified by the presence of marine mammals such as penguins, whales and seals.

• Arctic area has trees while Antarctic does not.

Antarctica & Patagonia Expedition

If you want your future travel to be something very different and exhilarating then you will be thrilled with a cruise to Antarctica & Patagonia with Seabourn!

Mere words cannot describe its majesty, and even the most striking photos fall short of conveying the immense scale and otherworldly beauty of this remote destination.

It lay undetected for most of recorded time, beyond the margins of the known world. Even after someone stumbled on it, its isolation and the necessary rigors of the journey kept all but the most intrepid away. Those who did return ran short of superlatives to describe its magnificence. We now go to Antarctica in a style undreamed by those ardent early pioneers. But what awaits you there – the snowy, sentinel mountain ranges, teeming penguin colonies and stately parades of monumental icebergs; the sight of an albatross effortlessly gliding across an ink-blue sea and the unexpected rainbow of mist arising from a breaching whale – all of that is virtually unchanged from the time before its discovery.

That is the magic of Antarctica, its timeless majesty and pristine beauty. Those who have seen it claim it’s impossible to adequately describe, that you have to go yourself. We believe that is an excellent suggestion, and one we can assist travelers in accomplishing. Guests will be accompanied by a veteran Expedition Team, who in many cases have made Antarctica the focus of their life’s work. They’ll tell you what they know, point out what they think you ought to see, and step ashore with you to share the profound experience of adventure and discovery that brings them back year after year. And when guests gather at day’s end in the luxury of their elegant resort at sea, they can try to find the words to describe it for themselves.

When you cruise with Seabourn, we promise a voyage that is nothing short of magical. Each cruise to Antarctica and Patagonia includes the following exclusive amenities and activities designed to enhance every moment:

* Inclusive zodiac tours and landings

* Digital photography workshops

* Complimentary Seabourn expedition-grade parka and day pack

* Opportunities for frequent wildlife sightings from the ship and on shore

* Onboard Expedition team providing narration & insight to the experience

* Inspiring Enrichment Program and special guest speakers on board

During their Antarctica Expeditions, all guests will have the opportunity to partake in their complimentary zodiac expeditions, each day.  You will find yourself walking around penguin colonies enjoying the views of not only these gracious birds, but also many other avian species as well as seals and the plethora of wildlife that makes Antarctica so unique.  At other times you will be enjoying a zodiac tour as you cruise around massive icebergs searching for whales, birds and seals in the midst of a surreal ice-scape. Some other days you may end up doing both, a landing plus a zodiac tour, and there is also the possibility to book an optional kayak tour, which provides a unique vantage point and a sense of oneness with Antarctica’s exuberant nature that words cannot describe.  Optional Kayaking tours in Antarctica may well be the highlight of the best journey of your life!

EXPEDITION TEAM

Your experienced Seabourn Expedition Team is a select group of academics, scientists and general naturalists who share your passion for exploring and learning about some of the world's remote regions. On board, they provide expert insights into the bio-diversity, ecosystems, physical science, history and culture of the place you visits, both in formal Seabourn Conversations presentations and casual discussion through the ship. They also guide your off-ship expeditions to enhance and enrich your interaction and engagement with destinations.

29 November 2021

Ultimate Antarctica & Patagonia

Santiago, Chile to Buenos Aires, Argentina

21 Days - Seabourn Quest

With their unmatched sense of style, elegance and grace, Seabourn luxury cruise ships beckon you to travel beyond the bounds of the imagination. On board Seabourn, every desire is met promptly and with a welcoming smile. Whether it's a warm blanket and a cup of gourmet hot chocolate as you drift on a small ship cruise along the Fjords or a relaxing neck massage poolside, you'll feel that you're a member of a very exclusive club when sailing on these luxury cruise ships.

Step aboard any one of our ships and you'll enjoy a sophisticated and luxurious small ship cruise like no other. You will feel as though you’ve been invited to sail on a private yacht.

Each small ship cruise offers all ocean-front suites, luxuriously appointed accommodations, an open-bar policy serving premium wine, champagne and spirits, and a world-class dining experience, further enhanced through a culinary partnership with Chef Thomas Keller.

Seabourn Quest is the third iteration of the vessel design that has  been called "a game-changer for the luxury segment." True to her Seabourn  bloodlines, wherever she sails around the world, Seabourn Quest carries with  her a bevy of award-winning dining venues that are comparable to the finest  restaurants to be found anywhere.

   Enjoy your beautiful veranda cabin 

For more information on this vacation you can call me at 1-800-903-5750

Cruise the USA!

One of the cruise options I have wanted to do for years is to cruise the Mississippi on a paddle-wheeler ship! Any travel product which evokes nostalgia and a time gone by seems so romantic and fascinating to me. 

If you want to stay closer to home on your next vacation, this is the perfect option. You can cruise the legendary Mississippi River aboard the newest riverboats in the region and enjoy perfect comfort and modern amenities as you travel to each historical destination. 

The fabric of the region is brought to life through delicious regional cuisine, live onboard music, and customized excursions. You can choose from 10 amazing Mississippi River itineraries including the Lower Mississippi River Cruise traveling from festive New Orleans to soulful Memphis, the Upper Mississippi River Cruise which explores from fascinating St. Louis to welcoming St. Paul, MN, or the Complete Mississippi River Cruise which traverses the entire length of this amazing and historic river.

Here is one of these cruises which I have wanted to personally experience:

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS  (9 DAYS FROM NEW ORLEANS)

Explore unique sites and attractions along the Mississippi River and admire the beauty of the world around you on a roundtrip river cruise from New Orleans. Uncover the treasures of Lower Mississippi River cities as you indulge in iconic Louisiana cuisine spiced with the cultural flavors of the region’s past. Beginning and ending in one of America’s iconic cities, a roundtrip New Orleans journey offers a sample of the South with stops in stunning port cities like St. Francisville, Natchez and Vicksburg.

DAY 1: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

Enjoy your complimentary stay at the pre-cruise hotel. The evening is yours to become acquainted with the city. The cruise Hospitality Desk will be located in the hotel, and their friendly staff can assist with everything from general questions about your upcoming voyage to reserving premium experiences. Both American Queen Steamboat Company and local representatives will be readily available to provide you with dining, entertainment and sightseeing options to maximize your time here.

DAY 2: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

New Orleans’s Creole, Cajun and other diverse residents blended to develop art, cuisine, music and general culture unlike any other in the United States. Uncover the treasures of the city as you indulge in iconic cuisine spiced with the cultural flavors of the city’s past, explore the unique sites and attractions lining the historic streets as seen in the famous French Quarter or admire the beauty in the stunning Garden District or City Park. 

DAY 3: RIVER CRUISING

Watch small river towns and lush landscapes slowly become lost in the horizon as sunlight plays upon the deck. Take hold of a literary classic, curl up on a plush chair in a cozy corner and relish in the moment of tranquility. Experience the fulfillment that river cruising offers.

DAY 4: ST. FRANCISVILLE. LOUISIANA

St. Francisville today is a testament to the lifestyle of a bygone era, with its plethora of charming antebellum-period homes and striking architecture. With over 140 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, beautiful plantation homes nestled in the rolling countryside and bustling Main Street shops, this quaint town situated on the bluffs of the Mississippi River has a style all its own. 

DAY 5:  NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI

It seems as if history fell asleep and awoke unscathed by the changing of times in this magical port. This charming river town was founded in 1716, making it the oldest city on the Mississippi River. It’s known for its elegance, hospitality and impressive preservation of history – found on every street corner. Enjoy the unique shops, restaurants, museums and historic homes, all of which inspired Hugh Bayless to include Natchez in his book “The 100 Best Towns in America.” 

DAY 6: VICKSBURG, MISSISSIPPI

Vicksburg perfectly blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern attractions. As a major battle site during the Civil War, this Southern town carries a history unlike any other. Learn about the historic conflicts of the city, taste its cuisine, visit the many museums and pick out the perfect souvenir. 

DAY 7: BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

Baton Rouge grants a strikingly different experience from those of the small-town stops throughout the journey. In this energetic port, history-facing museums and landmarks fraternize with forward-looking art and industry to offer a personalized encounter to each visitor. Allow the flowing, carefree words of denizens to dance through the eardrums during a meander through the city streets. Choose to hop on one of our deluxe motor-coaches and explore the diversity this city has to offer, or take a walk down the river path alongside the boat.  

DAY 8: NOTTOWAY RESORT, LOUISIANA

American Queen Steamboat Company features an exclusive port at Nottoway. While the boat is docked, visit the sugarcane estate – the largest standing antebellum mansion in the South. Nottoway is an intricate building with impressive detail. Original furnishings mingle with era-appropriate antiques to create an atmosphere that does justice to the home’s original ambiance. It is fascinating history and luxurious aesthetic packaged in Southern hospitality – an experience that you will not want to pass up. 

DAY 9: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA

As the journey concludes, there are other opportunities for you to take in the town. Enjoy the city at your leisure, stay some extra nights or return to airport.

VESSEL : AMERICAN QUEEN - CRUISE WITH LIVING HISTORY

The largest steamboat ever built, the grand American Queen is a gracious and elegant triumph of American ingenuity. This flagship paddlewheeler is a gentle soul packaged within the ornate detailing that embellishes her exterior. Any traveler who chooses to cruise on this iconic riverboat will soon find that her steady heart beats to the rhythm of music and discourse that resound within her walls.

Embark on a river cruise on the American Queen, the wondrous steamboat that introduces her riders to the waters that she calls home – the great rivers that have sustained towns, wildlife and memories throughout history.

DINING

Inspired by America’s heartland and the Southern heritage, the menus showcase the varied cultural and culinary influences of the USA. In the elegant J.M. White dining room, any meal will keep you savoring the memory of the flavors and sharing your excitement for the excellent service – even after you leave the boat. If you are looking for a more casual atmosphere, the Front Porch Café is for you. Meals there feature favorite main dishes, such as roast prime rib alongside irresistible sides – roasted new potatoes, classic mac-and-cheese and fresh salads.

ENTERTAINMENT

One of the many reasons I love this boat are the cabins. I find it incredible to be able to sail the river with furnishings evoking a glamourous bygone era, this only adds to the experience of living in the time of "Gone With The Wind".

OWNER'S SUITE WITH PRIVATE VERANDA

Open French doors and step out onto your veranda to unwind on your amply furnished patio. Adorned with 11- foot vaulted ceilings, overhead lighting and a cozy interior lounging area with a sofa-bed and cocktail tables, these expansive suites can accommodate up to three guests, and epitomize luxurious river cruising. Relish the many exclusive benefits of the Commodore Services while your personal River Butler attends to your every need. 

* 348 sq. ft. with 690-sq.-ft. exclusive veranda

* Queen bed

* Full bathroom with standard tub/shower combination

* Lounging area with sofa-bed

* Dressing area with granite vanity and mirror

* Flat-screen TV

* Coffee maker and mini refrigerator

* French doors open to exclusive veranda

* Furnished patio with sofa, two chairs and a coffee table

* Interior and exterior access

* Promenade Deck

* Commodore Services, including a River Butler

LUXURY SUITE WITH PRIVATE VERANDA

These spacious, elegant suites are furnished to provide the warm ambiance of a fine Southern estate. Open your French doors and delight in sweeping river views as you sip a beverage and share conversation in your cozy sitting area. With two configurations to choose from – either one large room with a private veranda or two adjoining rooms with an open veranda – these suites are the ideal choice for family and friends vacationing together. 

* 353-363 sq. ft. with private or open veranda

* Queen bed or two single beds

* Full bathroom with tub and shower or standard tub/shower combination

* Sitting area with sofa-bed

* Vanity, mirror and desk

* Flat-screen TV

* Coffee maker and mini refrigerator

* French doors open to deck or veranda

* Interior and exterior access

* Promenade and Texas Decks

* Commodore Services, including a River Butler

DELUXE SUITES WITH OPEN VERANDA

You will feel right at home on the river in these magnificent suites. Indulge in a soothing soak in your tub, then retire to your cozy armchair or sofa, prop your feet up on the ottoman and read through the River Times – the daily program – to discover the delights that await. 

* 230 sq. ft. with open veranda 

* Queen bed or two single beds 

* Full bathroom with standard tub/shower combination 

* Sitting area with sofa-bed

* Vanity and mirror

* Flat-screen TV

* French doors open to deck

* Interior and/or exterior access

* Promenade Deck 

* Commodore Services (excludes River Butler)

JUNIOR SUITES WITH OPEN VERANDA

Settle into your sitting area, open the French doors to the deck, and greet the day as the banks of the river majestically slip by. Some staterooms in this category offer a view of the paddlewheel, while others provide expansive views of America’s heartland. 

* 210 sq. ft. with open veranda

* Queen bed or two single beds

* Full bathroom with standard tub/shower combination

* Flat-screen TV

* Sitting area

* Vanity and mirror

* French doors open to deck

* Interior and/or exterior access

* Promenade and Observation Decks

* Preferred dining arrangements

PADDLEWHEEL STATEROOMS

These spacious retreats offer unmatched views, each with a 6-foot-square viewing window that overlooks the paddlewheel, for a truly authentic steamboating experience. It is important to note that while some guests are enamored with the allure of the more traditional experience, others may find the turning of the paddlewheel to produce more sound and vibration than they like at times.  

* Stateroom 383: 342 sq. ft.  

* Staterooms 385 and 386: 302 sq. ft.

* Traditional paddlewheel experience

* Queen bed or two single beds 

* Full bathroom with standard tub/shower combination  

* Flat-screen TV  

* Sitting area with sofa-bed  

* 6-foot-square picture window overlooking the paddlewheel  

* Vanity, mirror and desk 

* Interior access 

* Texas Deck 

DELUXE OUTSIDE SATEROOMS WITH PRIVATE VERANDA

With a private veranda, these staterooms are so enjoyable that you might decide to extend your journey. Relax in a cozy armchair and enjoy the view as you anticipate the activities of the day.

* 190 sq. ft. with 40-sq.-ft. private veranda

* Queen bed or two single beds

* Full bathroom with standard tub/shower combination

* Flat-screen TV

* French doors open to private veranda

* Interior access

OUTSIDE STATEROOM WITH OPEN VERANDA

Can you imagine opening French doors to a sweeping river vista and the sweet scent of magnolia trees? Sit on the deck outside your stateroom and greet early-morning strollers, relax in bed with your favorite book or soak in a hot bath. 

* 190-205 sq. ft. with open veranda

* Queen bed or two single beds

* Full bathroom with standard tub/shower combination

* Flat-screen TV

* French doors open to deck

* Interior and/or exterior access

* Observation Deck

DELUXE OUTSIDE STATEROOM WITH BAY WINDOW

An expansive bay window overlooking the scenery of America’s heartland is the main draw of this spacious category. Curl up in front of the window with a new novel, and savor a moment that belongs to only you. 

* 190 sq. ft. with bay window

* Queen bed or two single beds

* Full bathroom with standard tub/shower combination

* Flat-screen TV

* Interior access

* Cabin Deck

RELAXATION

The rhythm of the river is slow as a southern drawl that invites us all to take a deep breath and enjoy the simple moments. Take in the sunrise with a cup of coffee as you sit on the white rocking chairs of the Front Porch of America, or have a drink at the River Grill as you watch the paddlewheel turn and listen to the sound of the calliope. Or admire the rich mahogany furniture of the Mark Twain Gallery as the space invites you grab a freshly baked cookie and curl up with a good book.

DECK PLAN

If you would like to receive a brochure of this wonderful way of cruising or just want to ask a question with of course no obligation simply contact me either by phone at 1-800-903-5750 or email: francine@grandexplorer.com

Enjoy!

Sandals Reopens

Sandals, the most luxurious 5-Star resorts in the Caribbean are re-opening and have implemented the most advanced precautions for their clients' safety and comfort. For decades this luxury product has offered premium amenities at amazing properties. They pride themselves on offering gourmet food, superb accommodations and best of all they have the finest beach locations in all the Caribbean. Now they will additionally offer the safest resorts in the Caribbean. They have been dedicated to doing a complete head-to-toe sanitization of their properties and have added safety measures everywhere.

Check out this video to see their dedication to your well being:

Over the years you may have noticed images of those incredible over-the-water bungalows in Bali and Fiji in the South Pacific but the distance was prohibitive for you to enjoy them, well you can now find them closer at Sandals Jamaica!  

I cannot even begin to describe how fabulous these accommodations are so I will let these photos say it all . . . . .

These gorgeous over-the-water bungalows, located just off the resort's private island, convey an intimate connection to the Caribbean Sea and deliver complete immersion of the fine turquoise waters and rich marine life below. 

Glass vision floor panels and lit water ensure you can enjoy undersea views at any time. Couples can also admire the beauty of the ocean from their private outdoor Tranquility Soaking Tub for two or over-water hammocks. 

Every bungalow captures the height of luxury with hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings, custom crafted king-size beds adorned with soft linens and plush pillows for the ultimate sleep experience. Inside, each bungalow is also equipped with a smart TV and a large ceiling fan to stay cool while enjoying fresh Caribbean breezes. The bathrooms are equipped with his and hers sinks, a large backlit mirror adorned with mosaic tile, and a walk-in rain shower. 

Outside, your private patio is also equipped with an extended sun deck, outdoor shower, sun loungers, and a bistro set for two. Butler Elite service, which handles every detail of your vacation with unobtrusive grace, 24 hour room service, and a private water taxi to take you to and from the mainland are all included to complete your over-water vacation.

Bungalow guests will also receive the following additional inclusions:

- Private English Butler
- Exclusive in-room dining and room service menu 
- Direct resort access via a "Royal Duffy" luxury boat 
- Personal airport greeting 
- Expedited immigration 
- Private luxury transfers in a chauffeur-driven BMW to and from the airport. 
- Welcome gift, including branded tote and towel set 
- Molton Brown bathroom amenities.

They are offering great rebates at the moment for 2021 stays so give me a call for information with no obligation at 1-800-903-5750