Why Can’t I Visit Antarctica Properly Explained
Nothing and the people who are gearing up for another season of study down there as we move into Antarctic springtime would probably wonder what nonsense you’ve been listening to. Why can’t you visit Antarctica? Despite its intimidating reputation, many people do visit and work on the continent, yet misconceptions still abound. Let’s break it down.
Challenges of Visiting Antarctica
How about one vertical mile of solid ice across large areas of Antarctica? How about a total lack of facilities for non-residents, no shops, hospitals, or roads whatsoever?
These are real challenges that make visiting Antarctica seem almost impossible, but it’s not. There are plenty of people working in research stations on the continent. Over 5000 during the Summer and around 1000 over the Winter. Apply for a job at a research station if you have the right qualifications, maybe you’ll get lucky. If you have the money, you can even go as a tourist. Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, and Chile all have Antarctic Tours. Australia and New Zealand even have Antarctic Tourism Overflights. Antarctica is just hard to get to and it costs money.
People Go to Antarctica
They can and they do! Many of the world’s countries have scientific posts in Antarctica which are manned all the time and have been for something like 60 years! Since The Antarctic Treaty was signed in the late 50s! Various countries and companies run tours/trips to Antarctica from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and South America!
Myths and Realities
Well, for one thing, it’s always cold, overrun with penguins, so you have to watch where you step. Night life is pretty dismal. There’s really not much there to attract the average person. However, let’s debunk some common myths about Antarctica.
Are Penguins Really Dangerous?
You think the famous polar explorer Bob of the Antarctic was killed by exposure and cold. No, it was the wild penguins that did for him. This is a misinterpretation. Penguins are the direct descendants of dinosaurs, specifically the “Gethimsaurus,” but their reputation is a bit exaggerated. Penguins may appear cute and funny, but their beaks are razor sharp and filled with serrated teeth, and they can certainly chase their prey with a bloodcurdling hunting scream, but they are not a threat to humans. They often avoid human contact and are more likely to run away than attack.
Other Survival Challenges
The environment in Antarctica is inhospitable, with extreme cold, winds, and snow. Night life is indeed quiet and sparse, with nothing more than the aurora and the endless whiteness of the landscape. This is why popular tourist destinations like McMurdo Station or Concordia Station are significant points of interest. These research stations serve as hubs for scientific research, providing basic amenities for visitors and researchers.
Who Manages Antarctica?
Antarctica is governed through the Antarctic Treaty System, which aims to ensure the continent remains a place of peace and cooperation. Several countries, primarily scientific researchers, are responsible for maintaining their respective research stations. The United States, for example, operates McMurdo Station, while countries like Argentina, Brazil, and France also maintain stations.
Antarctic Tours and Activities
For those interested in exploring the continent, there are several tour operators such as Quark Expeditions, Crystal Cruises, and HK Expeditions, which offer unique and adventurous tours to Antarctica. These tours often include visits to different research stations, penguin colonies, and other natural wonders. It’s a chance to witness the raw beauty of the south pole and gain a deeper understanding of this unspoiled environment.
Antarctica may be challenging to reach and visit, but it’s far from impossible. With the right determination, qualifications, or a willingness to spend some money, anyone can experience the awe and wonder of the Antarctic continent.
Conclusion
Antarctica is not just a remote place shrouded in mystery and danger. While the challenges are real, millions of people undergo extensive training and prepare for long periods to work and even visit the continent. Despite challenges, people do much more than survive in Antarctica; they thrive in it, contributing to scientific knowledge and experiencing beauties that defy description.