Stunning glacier in Antarctica
One of our favourite travel trends in recent years is that ‘celebration travel‘ is on the rise. We’re seeing more passengers join our expeditions to Antarctica, the Arctic and Beyond who want to make their special dates or milestones truly unforgettable.
Christopher Gawronski visited Antarctica as part of a photography group, as a present to himself for his 50th birthday.
We caught up with him to ask him some questions about his once-in-a-lifetime trip, the decision-making process that led to him booking, and to offer advice for people considering doing something BIG to mark an upcoming special occasion.
I have travelled pretty extensively and tend to prefer the places less travelled. The more unusual places prompt interesting conversations and typically provide intriguing photographic subjects. Antarctica is one of those unusual places where relatively few people have travelled, and it provides a stark landscape that I imagined would provide good photographic subjects.
I have casually thought about Antarctica as a destination for many years; however, the cost of a cruise to Antartica was always a barrier.
There was a convergence of factors that led to my finally booking an Antarctic expedition. First, I was following a YouTube photographer who mentioned he was organising a photography trip to Antarctica. I’ve taken other photography tours and always enjoyed the way they provide plenty of time for picture-taking without holding up non-photographers.
Second, the trip was planned for two years out, which both provided time to save for the cost of the trip. Finally, the trip timing was close to a landmark birthday of mine (50th birthday). I always like to travel someplace new for my birthday, if possible. And what better way to celebrate a big birthday than a big travel destination? So, this combination of a focus on photography, time to plan, and having it coincide with my birthday led me to decide it was finally time to make a booking.
It is really difficult to pick a single most memorable moment. One of the aspects of Antarctica that struck me most was how quiet it could be. Only the sound of water, wind, and possibly some wildlife. The human noise was very minimal – no airplanes, no vehicular traffic, and very few people. During periods of calm weather, one could imagine being alone on Earth. And when the weather turned severe, the raw power and beauty of this lonely continent was awesome to behold.
Aside from the photography group, I also participated in the snorkelling activity. The snorkellers were a small, fun group that came to enjoy a camaraderie that made each excursion even more delightful. I was also very impressed with the food quality and variety; and the service staff did a fantastic job taking care of the passengers.
My birthday did not fall during the trip, it was a couple of weeks after my return. This was part of what I liked about the timing: I got to treat myself to a fantastic experience for my landmark birthday, and I got to celebrate with friends and family back home on my actual birthday and share my Antarctic experience with them.
I have travelled to some other great places for previous birthdays. But, for a landmark event like a 50th birthday, Antarctica (and AE Expeditions) was an excellent choice that was truly unique in my experience. The trip has prompted so much interest that I have created and given several photo presentations for family, friends, and co-workers.
Two pieces of advice. First, have an experience that truly fits you. There is nothing wrong with seeing popular sites or going to touristy places – they are usually popular for a reason. However, be wary of going places and doing things just because they are popular. I have found that doing things I feel I should do are not as satisfying as following my gut and taking a chance on destinations or activities that are lesser-known.
Second, be flexible. A milestone trip or activity can have a lot of expectations placed on it. Where there are high expectations, there is the risk of serious disappointment if things don’t turn out just right. Travel is inherently unpredictable, especially when traveling to unusual places. My years of travel have taught me it is important to go with the flow and make the most of every moment, even if it wasn’t quite what was planned.
I would say Aurora makes its expeditions very easy for travellers. However, pay attention to packing and clothing advice, especially when travelling to remote places. Also, Aurora tries to provide as many excursions and activities as possible.
Pace yourself! If you plan to take advantage of every excursion offered, be prepared for a very full schedule. I found I needed, once or twice, to forgo an extra zodiac cruise in order to take the time to slow down and truly experience and appreciate where I was. Although it was difficult for me to say no to something, I definitely enjoyed the extra time and reduced pressure that resulted from not trying to do everything.
I would love to see the biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands and the stark landscape of the Danakil Depression in Ethiopia.
My fiancée and I have been talking about possible trips for a honeymoon.
I enjoy travelling. Over the years, though, I have found myself at times less interested in going somewhere just to see a new place. I’ve discovered that, for myself, travel needs to be intentional, to satisfy a meaningful purpose to be fulfilling. The purpose could be to spend time with friends, to truly sample a new culture, or to be inspired by the awesome natural features and forces of our planet. Travelling with a purpose connects me to our world. In every case, travel should feed the soul, not just fill a passport.
Capture the world’s wonders, alongside some of the finest photographers on the planet.
Our photographers will teach you the tricks of the trade, whether you’re wielding professional gear or snapping shots on your smartphone.
Enjoy extended opportunities for breathtaking shots, from specially designed Zodiac cruises to immersive onshore excursions, where every moment becomes an invitation to create.
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