Category: Travel guides

Athens is a great starting point to explore Greece’s ancient history, get a feel of modern Greek society, and savor the unique fusion of Greek and international cuisine. Day trips on ferries to a nearby island gave us a taste of the magnificent Greek islands. Greece is slowly recovering from its economic hardship. Being the country’s epicenter, Athens is grungy, but very much alive.

Accommodation

When we travel, we love to stay in AirBnBs whenever possible. It gives us a sense of what life looks like in the place. On this trip, we booked a studio apartment in the cozy Pangrati neighborhood. The subway connects to Evangelismos station, easily accessible from the airport, and well connected to popular tourist destinations.

The neighbourhood has a number of great restaurants and bars, and it’s far enough from the touristy madness to feel like a retreat, but close enough to reach on foot or a short ride on public transport. Even within a short 5-day stay, we had established a morning routine of getting coffee from Kokkos, and pastry from Chez Alice.

Things to Do

If you are a history buff, Athens is the city for you. With architecture that dates back to 5th century BC, there is plenty of historical wonders to take in. This mix of history and modernity makes Athens a tantalizing city to explore.

Pro tip: When I visit a city, I like to star all the places I want to visit on Google Maps, including restaurants & cafés. Download the map onto your phone to have an offline version. I then decide which neighborhood I want to explore for the day, and can make decisions on the go.

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Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Tour

In a major city, I like to take advantage of the hop-on/hop-off bus whenever possible. They serve as a great transportation option with added history lessons. Exploring the city on the bus gets me to all the top destinations, and helps me get a feel of the land. We used CitySightseeing in Athens, and ticket prices begin at €18 for an adult. You can book the tickets ahead online, or get them at the booths located near major attractions.

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The Acropolis & Parthenon

When in Greece, visiting monuments that symbolize Greek civilization is a must. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a climb. The Acropolis and Parthenon sit on top of a hill, and along the way, check out the magnificent Theatre of Dionysus. Imagine the stadium filled to the brim with people watching a show. At the foot of the hill sits Acropolis Museum. This is really worthwhile with multi-levels of well-curated artifacts that bring ancient Greece alive.

Get Lost in Monastiraki Square & The Plaka

Monastiraki Square and its surrounding is a bustling area filled with second-hand shops, boutiques, souvenir stalls, and antiques to fill your shopping needs. It’s a great place to peruse and take in the vibrant vibe. A hidden gem nestles within the neighborhood is TAF (The Arts Foundation). This bar/café is masked behind an unassuming door but opens into an atrium with a café at the courtyard surrounded by art galleries.

Nearby is the Plaka neighborhood, the old historical center of Athens. This area feels like a village with windy alleys, uneven steps, beautiful art murals, with hospitable restaurants and cafés sprinkled in between. Get lost in this area and follow turns on a whim; no plans necessary.

Lycabettus Hill at Sunset

The peak at Mount Lycabettus sits atop 277 meters and gives one of the best panoramic views of Athens. While the view is wonderful no matter what time of the day, the scene at sunset is a different level of spectacular. To get up to the mountain top, you have a few options. For the adventure climber type, you would want to climb up the hill. If you aren’t up for a long climb, a smaller climb takes you to the Teleferik station. From there, the cable car takes you to the mountain top.

We were not aware of the cable car at the time, and simply had a taxi driver take us straight to the top, and then we took the Teleferik down. Whatever combination you decide, the view is breathtaking and very much worth the effort.

Tour the Panathenaic Stadium

The Panathenaic Stadium is a majestically made of marble is the site of the first modern Olympic games in 1896. Beyond simply walking around to feel the magnitude of the space, there is a well-curated Olympics museum inside the stadium. Be sure to bring sun protection though, there is not an ounce of shade if you are walking around on a sunny day!

Explore the Academy of Athens

I often like visiting universities on my travels. Educational institutions reflects the society, and in Athens, I enjoyed exploring the area around the Academy of Athens and National Library of Greece. Not only the buildings are gorgeous to look at, but I can also feel the youthful energy emitted from students. There are has some lovely cafés and restaurants. Bring a book, and have a coffee, you can blend in with the rest of the student body.

Day Trips From Athens

A day trip to Aegina

If you are coming to Athens without any onward travel to other Greek islands, you can take a day trip to get a taste of the island life. While there are a number of tour operators offering day tours, it’s easy to make the trip on your own. From Piraeus Port, we bought tickets from Flying Dolphin, one of the many ferry companies, to head to Aegina. The ferry ride across Saronic Gulf takes around 40 minutes. We left early in the morning, enjoyed the entire day on the island, and took the ferry back at night. The night view from the boat was a lovely contrast from the morning.

Port of Aegina is busy, lined with a fleet of ferries, cruise ships and more. Onshore is a bustling fish market with a number of restaurants competing for that gorgeous ocean view. It’s a great place to get a delicious seafood meal with fresh produce. To explore the island, you can rent a motorbike, hire a car, or simply wander on foot. The old town was relatively quiet when we visited in early October, as the summer season winded down. The quiet streets that were full of wonderful architecture details gave me a sense of Greek island life.

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A day trip to Alimos

After a few days in the city, we were curious to see what life looks like outside the city center. We hopped on a tram and took it all the way to the coast. Along the journey, we saw various neighborhoods in Athens, and observe daily life in the city. Traveling opens our eyes to new ways of life, but we must remember most people don’t live near touristy destinations. Sometimes, it helps to step away and see a different side.

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As we reached Alimos, various beach-side restaurants and lounges began to appear. We walked around, but it was eerily quiet given it was a weekday, and the suburbia neighborhoods nearby were devoid of people. I could imagine the area filled with families on weekends. We settled into Peñarrubia Lounge, the one place that looked somewhat lively, and enjoyed a tranquil view and some lunch.

Good Eats

One of the joys of travel is the ability to try restaurants and local cuisines. Athens has plenty to offer, and here are some of my favorites:

Avocado – If you need some vegetarian fix, this café has a great menu of healthy and fulfilling bites. The atmosphere is relaxed, and a perfect spot in the center of town to rest from sightseeing.

Fresko Yogurt Bar – When in Greece, trying out their yogurt is a must. This yogurt bar offers up a variety of toppings to go with its creamy yogurt. If you are in the mood for a dessert, come to this bar to curb that craving.

Gelato Follia – If you do make it out to Aegina, definitely stop by this delicious gelateria for a big scoop of ice cream in delightful flavors.

Kokkos – This is my neighborhood café for the week in the Pangrati neighborhood. It’s a small café, with friendly baristas serving up delicious coffee. The cappuccino was perfection!

Mani Mani – If you are looking to have a decadent meal without breaking the budget, this is the place. Situated not far from the Acropolis museum, it’s a beautiful place to have a delightful Greek meal with a bit of a fusion twist.

Nice n Easy – This cozy restaurant has a fantastic outdoor sitting in a quiet residential neighborhood near the Academy of Athens. This is where you can have blended into society a bit, away from the tourists. Food is fresh and tasty, true to its Mediterranean form.

TAF (The Art Foundation) – As mentioned, this hidden bar in Monastiraki is great for a coffee or a cocktail. Enjoy the art, and feel the hip vibe!

The Black Sheep – This place was so delicious that we went back for a second time before we left. The tapa-style ordering lets you try many dishes, but very reasonably priced. If you are dining in the evening, be sure to call ahead to reserve a table. Lunch is also a great option if you are in the neighborhood.

Traveling to the South Pole is gaining traction among ever-hungry globe trotters that would love to bury their proverbial flag into every landmass on the planet. Bring a pickaxe though, as the coldest region of the Earth harnesses at least a mile thick layer of ice and lashes at the skin with frostbite. Don’t be taken by surprise, as summer in Antarctica is not to be trifled with. Admittedly, it can be quite bearable near the coast, but the farther inland you go, the colder and more inhospitable it gets.

A trip to Antarctica can be a once in a lifetime kind of experience that will elevate your knowledge of our world to some new heights. As the summer descends on the land perpetually locked in the state of deep freeze, the sea ice will break and make way for any incoming expedition and reveal the most breathtaking secrets of the opposite pole. For the denizens of the northern hemisphere, the word ‘summer’ often evokes images of sprawling sandy beaches, warm, vibrant air, and excessive cold beverage consumption. While it may seem to be a fact of life for some, the situation down south – and by this, we mean the southernmost continent of the Earth, not the Deep South like in Alabama – is a whole different story.

When is the Summer in Antarctica?

Since Antarctica is located at the South Pole, it’s quite expected for it to have a summer season from October to February.

This is the most common definition of the Antarctic summer, albeit a generous one. October is still inhumanely cold with temperatures far below the freezing point. November is the first month of the year when the weather becomes even remotely acceptable by most tourists’ standards. Still, it would be highly prudent to pack for extreme cold and endless days. Yes, Antarctica’s unique position on the globe means continuous days during the summer and the emergence of a famous phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun.

Average Summer Temperatures in Antarctica

Very specific weather conditions of Antarctica dictate its rather unusual climate and define what we call the Antarctic summer.

Considering the aforementioned layer of ice covering the continent, it’s understandable why Antarctica has a higher altitude to begin with. In fact, there is so much ice here that it comprises 70% of all fresh water on Earth. Ultimately, this is the main reason why it’s much colder than the Arctic – the average altitude is much higher, and it is approximately 8,200 feet. One of the other important factors as for why this is the coldest place on earth is the abundance of ice sheet reflecting most of the heat back into space.

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The only time when Antarctica absorbs any heat whatsoever is during the summer. The sunlight heats lower layers of the atmosphere, increasing their temperature, and slowing down katabatic winds that come in crashing from the slopes bringing cold, high-density air with them. Without the wind, oceans can then bring warm air and thus the summer commences.

Temperatures by Month

Depending on where you’re measuring the temperature, summer averages vary significantly. The higher the altitude and deeper inland you go, that is to say, farther from the oceans, average temperatures drop by more than a small amount. For example, Vostok Station, located in Princess Elizabeth Land, Antarctica, is the coldest place on Earth and it’s where the lowest temperature of −89.2 °C (−128.6 °F) has been recorded.

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Before getting into specific months, it’s important to say that the annual temperature ranges from −10 °C (14 °F) to −60 °C (−76 °F). This figure also depends on where the measuring is performed, with the former number being more characteristic of coastlines, while the latter can be found inland.

For the purposes of obtaining average temperatures of the Antarctic, we will provide you with the measurements made at the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station which is nested at the very heart of the continent.

• October. As we’ve already mentioned, October can hardly be considered a summer month, but for the purposes of the Antarctic continent, it is. The highest temperature in October is going to be -48 °C (-54 °F), and the lowest usually ranges from -54 °C (-65 °F). In Vostok, lowest October temperatures are -63 degrees Celsius. It’s so cold here that you’d never know it’s summer if not for the perpetual sunny days during the summer. Tourists still largely avoid this month as absolutely worthless for traveling to Antarctica unless you want to join the sheet as a block of ice yourself.
• November. Even though Antarctica only has two seasons, November is what we’d call spring in the northern hemisphere. More and more animals are slowly making an appearance, and penguins are laying eggs. At this point, average temperatures range from -40 °C (-40 °F) to -36 °C (-33 °F). The moderate climate of the coastline will provide temperatures of about -3 °C (-26 °F) at most, which is where most of the visitors to the continent will remain during on their journey in November. At Vostok, -50 °C (-58 °F) is the worst possible scenario.
• December. Early summer has arrived in the wastes of the never-ending desert of Antarctica. The penguin eggs laid just a month before start hatching now. Seal pups are roaming the coastline in search for food and there’s finally a decent increase in temperature. Days are becoming longer, reaching their maximum capacity soon. As far as the temperature is concerned, the lowest average measures about -29 °C (-20 °F), a marked improvement over the last month. However, it’s still not going to get warmer than the average maximum of -26 °C (-15 °F), so you might still want to pass up on getting into swimwear. Vostok will retain its glacial temperatures so it’s not even worth mentioning!
• January. Finally, the warmest month of the year is here. It feels as if the summer has begun, and it’s at this time that you’ll be able to see the most fauna in the far south of the world. While temperatures at Amundsen-Scott base remain largely the same and don’t change between the months of December and January, that is, they remain in the range of -29 °C (-20 °F) to -26 °C (-15 °F), the situation in towns is much different. Esperanza is a Chilean town located at the warmest, southernmost part of Antarctica. January temperatures in this town of 55 go from -1 °C (30 °F) to 4 °C (39 °F). The Antarctic weather here is almost reminiscent of northern hemisphere winters!
• February. The warmth is already slowly decaying, receding into lower and lower ends of the thermometer. Adult penguins are already molting and chicks get their first feathers to protect them from the incoming drop in temperature. The average low measures -43 °C (-45 °F), a temperature already lower than that of November. The highest it can go is -38 °C (-36 °F). At Esperanza, the temperature will desperately hold on to its 4 degrees Celsius, while the Australian Casey Station will mark precisely 0 degrees Celsius or 32 °F.
• March. While most meteorologists don’t consider March to be part of the summer, and for a good reason considering its lowest average temperature often hits the -57 °C (-71 °F) point, it’s still the most popular time to travel to Antarctica. The reason why this happens is that sea ice has finished melting by the early March, opening up more space for ships to navigate. You’ll be able to explore the farthest corners of the South Pole and also observe some of the most beautiful whale species as they emerge from the oceans. There’s a decent chance for you to spot minke whales, Orcas, humpback and southern right whales.

Precipitation

There is very little to no precipitation during the summer, or the entire year in the Antarctic for that matter. On an annual basis, the southernmost continent gets only 2 inches of snow which rarely melts since the temperature never gets high enough.

Instead, all that snow becomes just another layer of icy shield covering the landmass below. As for the rain, there’s none because the air is simply too cold. Without heat, there’s no humidity and consequently no rain. It’s so cold that even snow barely ever falls. Most of the snow in inland Antarctica just gets blown in there from the outer area.

Climate Change

There’s no more doubt about it – we’re living in a period of abrupt, negative changes to the world we live in. Climate change is disrupting the fragile bonds that hold our lives together and it is most noticeable at our poles.

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Observing an ice shelf as it melts and deteriorates is the proof enough of global warming taking place. The displacement of ice shelves due to warmer oceans is already causing problems which might culminate sometime in the near future. Increasing sea level and decreased ocean salinity will have a direct impact on our and the lives of our children if something isn’t done soon.

The summer in Antarctica is a stark reminder of our impact on our dear planet. Let your trip there be an educational one, hopefully giving you a broader perspective on how we’re redefining the world around us.

Antarctica goes by a couple of nicknames – the seventh continent, the frozen south, or simply “the ice”. The photos of its formidable landscapes and ice-covered land masses seem like shots filmed somewhere on Mars. Though it might seem inaccessible to mere mortals, there are several airports across Antarctica and getting there by cruisers is also possible. For this reason, it’s not surprising that thousands of tourists visit it on a yearly basis.

Still, getting there regardless of your means of transport comes with a few strings attached. Though flying to Antarctica has only recently become an option, it is not an average tourist destination that you can back-pack in a day or two. It is the windiest, driest and the coldest place on Earth – though, truth be told, it might as well be out of this world.

What is Antarctica?

Before we delve into aerial paths that lead to and across this frozen wasteland, it’s important that we fully understand what Antarctica actually is and why there is quite a handful of things to consider before traveling there.

First of all, Antarctica is immense. It covers the surface of 14 million square kilometers while its coastline stretches along 11 000 miles. Average ice thickness is around jaw-dropping 1.6 kilometers and temperatures fluctuate between +10°C in the summer and −40°C in winter. These two seasons are the only two seasons that exist in such barren parts of the world.

The human settlements in Antarctica are not exactly towns as we know them. These human colonies are there solely for scientific purposes. The scientists and expeditions don’t reside there for indefinite periods of time. Instead, they stay for a couple of months, usually during summer while only a handful of scientist actually stay there during merciless winters.

Though not abundant like many other parts of the world, animal and plant life on the South Pole sure does exist. Penguins and seals populate the icy continent while the only two plant species that actually live here are Antarctic pearlwort and Antarctic hair grass. The South Pole is one of the least diverse eco-systems in the world but it also contains 70 percent of the world’s fresh water.

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Is There an Airport in Antarctica?

Back in the day, the only way to get to Antarctica was to be a scientist on an expedition ship. It was only later that visitor tours were allowed. Nowadays, travelers can choose whether they prefer cruising to Antarctica or flying there.

The reason why Antarctica has been kept in such high regard is its sheer icy might and enormous potential for exploration. Having been untouched for centuries on end, it was protected by the Antarctic Treaty back in 1957. The consultative parties i.e. the countries who signed the treaty, pledged to demilitarize Antarctica and ensure that “Antarctica shall continue forever to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes” (Art. I, The Antarctic Treaty). Since then, the South Pole is available for research and only a limited number of tourist visits every year.

Due to its specific geographical location and mostly inaccessible coastline, the nearest spots to embark on a journey to Antarctica are Australia, South America, or New Zealand. Airports are usually found very close to scientific bases and outposts although these are not the mega-airports we are accustomed to. The only intercontinental flights are conducted from Troll Airfield, located 6.8 kilometers from Norwegian Troll Station and they usually operate from Cape Town International Airport.

The airstrips on the South Pole are extremely high-maintenance and need regular care. With all the dry ice constantly forming on the surface, notoriously strong wind, and hostile temperatures, aviation procedures require maximum care. Specialized jet aircraft are operated by professional pilots and they all have assisted take-off while being ski-equipped for missions around the South Pole.

List of Airports in Antarctica

After the Treaty was signed, the parties agreed that individual countries should have their own outposts and research bases. The bases that have been formed throughout Antarctica usually have their own runways provided that they are large and significant enough. Among the leading base camps are those belonging to the United States, Russia, Australia, Chile, and the United Kingdom. All airports have their unique ICAO codes, meaning that they are governed by air traffic control. Still, official landing facilities and developed public airports do not exist in Antarctica.

The UK Airports in Antarctica

The United Kingdom holds several bases: Fossil Bluff, Halley Research Station, Rothera Research Station, Sky Blu, and Wolfs Fang Runway. Fossil Bluff, an air operations refueling facility is a kilometer away from a skiway. Apart from refueling, the station is also a jumping-off point for other operations into Antarctica. Fossil Bluff is only 90 minutes’ flight from Rothera, a research station on Adelaide Island. Rothera has 2,950 ft gravel runway and it’s home to a fleet of five specially adapted aircraft. Halley Research Station has its ice runway, serving as a transit point to Rothera. Sky Blu is located in Palmer Land and in an area of extremely dense ice, providing it with a sturdy runway with 3,960 feet in length. Wolfs Fang Runway is a private runway belonging to a luxury travel company White Desert Ltd.

The US Airports in Antarctica

The United States Antarctic Program is based in McMurdo Station on Ross Island. This is where Ice Runway is located – the principal runway of the US Program. It is one of the few that can handle four-wheel aircraft, such as Lockheed, Orion, and Boeing and it’s 10,000 feet long. McMurdo was serviced by three runways: Pegasus White, the main Ice Runway, and Williams Field. In 2017, Phoenix Airfield was made to replace Pegasus. The Jack F. Paulus Skiway (runway length: 12,000 ft) is located at Amundsen–Scott South Pole Station, named in honor of Roald Amundsen and Robert F. Scott, the pioneers to the South Pole. Union Glacier Blue-Ice Runway (runway length: 9,842 ft) is also one of the capital runways and it’s operated by Antarctic Logistics & Expeditions providing tours to the interior of Antarctica as well as expedition support. The remaining two stations include Palmer (runway length: 2,500 ft) and Patriot Hills (runway length: 3,281 ft) which was once the only private seasonally occupied camp but today, it’s a backup runway.

Russian Airports in Antarctica

Formally annexed by Norway in 2015, Queen Maud Land covers a massive 2.7 million square kilometers of Antarctica’s surface. Still, the territory has 12 active research stations and one of them is Russian Novolazarevskaya Station. It is open to research-related flights and commercial airline companies flying passengers. Molodyozhnaya Station (runway length: 8,395 ft) operates on a seasonal basis while Progress Station (runway length: 3,280 ft) is now a scientific wintering complex.

Australian Airports in Antarctica

Being rather close to Antarctica, Australia has a few of its own bases there. However, Australia operates a sole runway aerodrome – Wilkins Runway (10,499 ft), which is used to transport scientists and it’s unavailable for tourist flights. As one of three permanent bases, the Casey Station is pivotal for the Australian Antarctic program. There is also a smaller Casey Station Skiway (runway length: 6,547 ft) which is 10 kilometers east of the main station. There are also the Davis Station (runway length: 317 ft) and Mawson, serving for exclusively scientific purposes.

Chile Airports in Antarctica

As one of the rare gravel airports in Antarctica, the Teniente Rodolfo Marsh Martin Airport is served by various public flights, including fly/cruise. Not only is it the only one that has an IATA code (location identifier) but it’s also a part of Chile’s Antártica commune. Bernardo O’Higgins base (runway length: 2,625 ft) is the capital of Antártica Commune and one of the oldest Antarctica bases ever founded.

Obviously, Antarctica has a lot of airports although a great majority of them is not used by the general public. By restricting the number of tourist visits, the goal or conservationists and scientists is to salvage these unique ecosystems from dying out, especially when global warming and ice melting has become such a huge concern.

For most people, the southernmost (and coldest) continent still poses somewhat of a mystery that needs proper sorting out. Many questions have accumulated over the years and they’ve never been addressed properly, or at least not satisfactorily for an average, non-scientific population of the world. The most ubiquitous of them all is if there are cities in Antarctica. While the unequivocal answer is no, there are in fact towns in Antarctica, albeit a laughably small number of them.

What’s the capital of Antarctica?

This is yet another question that we base on our observations of the world around us, but it does not apply well to Antarctica. Officially claimed by seven sovereign countries, this icy continent has no ruler or flag, and it definitely hasn’t got a capital city. It is, in its own right a no man’s land.

Besides towns, most common occurrences of anything even remotely resembling a settlement are research centers and several scattered churches. The few permanent residents who are the closest thing to what we would call Antarcticans have made this continent as homely as possible in the places where they’re staying.

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Places in Antarctica

Only two civilian settlements exist in Antarctica with a lowly population consisting of just a couple of scientists and their families.

These aren’t your run-of-the-mill towns for millions of tourists to descend upon annually. In fact, most people that come to visit the southern continent are more often than not bound to their ships. These are the areas where you’ll find the most of the human population in Antarctica, with the exception of the McMurdo base. Be careful and keep an eye out for road signs warning you of penguins, lest you harm these adorable denizens of Antarctica.

Villa Las Estrellas

Belonging to the country of Chile, Villa Las Estrellas is a small settlement in the province of Antártica Chilena. It’s got a summer population of about 140, with this number dropping down significantly to 80 during winter.

This remote and quaint little town is located on King George Island, which is a part of the South Shetland Islands whose climate is praised for its hospitability. With an average yearly temperature of  −2.3 °C, this part of Antarctica is really enjoyable to an extent. The town itself is the part of President Eduardo Frei Montalva Base military base and consists of fourteen homes. While you might jump to conclusions about the quality of life in this secluded corner of the world, the reality of the population living here is not to be diminished.

With all the facilities they could ever need, people of Villa Las Estrellas lead more or less ordinary lives. Chilean Air Force hospital has one doctor and a nurse on staff who can take care of most simple to semi-serious issues and even perform less complicated surgeries. The hospital itself is equipped decently, with an X-ray machine, anesthetics, and a laboratory for testing blood samples. As far as education is concerned, there’s a single primary school with two teachers serving the younger population and a kindergarten for the youngest. With their own radio station called ‘Sovereignty’ broadcasting on 90.5 MHz, residents of Villa Las Estrellas are truly always in touch with the outside world. Computers in primary school are the only source of the Internet.

While there is an airport nearby, commercial travel is not too common. Visitors can stay at a single hostel that can hold up to 20 guests and mingle with the locals in the community center.

Esperanza

Esperanza, or Hope, really lives up to its elegant name. This Argentinian research center on the Trinity Peninsula houses 55 people during the winter and is the only other settlement to be found on this unforgiving continent.

A beautiful snow-covered place, Esperanza is most famous as the place where the first person was born in Antarctica. It has 43 buildings mostly dedicated to research projects in the fields of seismology, oceanology, glaciology, biology and many other scientific pursuits. The research base gets power from a wind generator and four regular generators that consume 4,800 gallons of fuel every year.

The commune of Esperanza also has access to Radio Nacional Arcángel San Gabriel radio station, a Presidente Raúl Ricardo Alfonsín provincial school and the southernmost scout troop in the entire world.

As far as temperatures go, the average yearly low is about -8.1 °C, slightly colder than Villa Las Estrellas but still much better than the rest of the continent, mostly due to the lower elevation of these towns.

The first citizen of the world born in Antarctica is Emilio Marcos Palma, with about a dozen children following in his footsteps. Today, they’re part of the ten families that inhabit Esperanza under the tutelage of two local teachers.

If you think that Esperanza resembles a military base, you wouldn’t be wrong. Even though any military activity (including military encampment formation) is prohibited by the Antarctic Treaty, this resolution does not apply to the bases formed before the treaty, excluding both Villa Las Estrellas and Esperanza from the rule. However, for now, it seems that neither government is abusing this exception, both claiming that their settlements are purely civilian. After all, Antarctica people are just scientists and their families trying to make their living and learn in this desolate continent.

Research Centers in Antarctica

While towns in Antarctica are as rare as they get, research centers are more abundant than you could possibly imagine. They conduct various tests and major scientific projects that have a common goal to learn as much as possible about all the places in Antarctica, including the surrounding areas, but also to observe (and prevent) the consequences of human interference and impact on Antarctica’s unique ecosystem.

McMurdo Station Antarctica

One of the three US-owned research centers, with the single largest community on Antarctica with the ability to successfully sustain approximately 1,258 people, McMurdo station sits on the southern end of Ross Island, claimed by New Zealand.

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While it only serves a general scientific purpose with no specific direction, the sheer size of this station allows for advanced logistics and engineering teams to be available at all times. With three airfields, two of which are seasonal, a helipad, and a harbor, McMurdo Station really does resemble a successful town.

The aforementioned general science they conduct revolves around studying the ocean, climate, biology, medicine, geology, astrophysics, glaciology and plenty of others. The nearby Observation Hill, or Ob Hill for short is used for viewing the surrounding landscape as it reveals quite a large chunk of the area.

After a brief and damaging period during which the station was supplied with power from a nuclear reactor, they decided that diesel generators are less harmful and disengaged the reactor.

Great Wall Station

The first Chinese station to be opened in Antarctica, Great Wall Station is located down a 2.5 km road from Villa Las Estrelas and the adjacent Chilean military base.

Great Wall Station is a marvel of Chinese ingenuity and labor, as it was constructed in only 40 days in 1985. The Chinese expedition arrived on two ships, only one of them being an actual icebreaker. They risked getting cut off from the sea, which is why they had to work almost 17 hours a day in order to complete the station in record time. Today, a monolith can be seen at the site of the research center, commemorating their perseverance and incredible success.

Base General Bernardo O’Higgins Riquelme

Since the name of this research center is quite a mouthful, you may refer to it as Bernardo O’Higgins much like the rest of its permanent staff does. It’s also known under a different name, as Puerto Covadonga after the Chilean port where the center is located.

The base is operated by the Chilean military and serves as the capital of the Antártica Commune. One of the longest standing operations of all, Bernardo O’Higgins houses 44 people during summer and only 16 in winter. Due to its accessibility and good infrastructure, it was designated as the location of The German Antarctic Receiving Station that collects data from satellite-based sensors in the area. It was set up by the German Aerospace Center.

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A very famous attraction in the area is a bust dedicated to General Bernardo O’Higgins, remembering this prominent figure from Chilean history.

General Artigas Station

Also known as Artigas Base, this research station is one of the only two centers that Uruguay claims for itself.

Uruguayans, unlike some other Antarctica people, have an innate respect for the environment and abide by all the treaties and regulations established in the past in order to protect the biodiversity of Antarctica. They excel in life sciences and studying how humans are affecting the local environment. Other than that, they’re performing experiments in the fields of oceanology, geodesy, and glaciology. They’re also deeply involved in atmospheric sciences, which include running an ionospheric laboratory and studying atmospheric corrosion.

Their fleet consists of airplanes, helicopters, ship, and amphibian vehicles, enabled by National Defense Ministry who are in charge of logistics.

Yelcho Base

Named after the Yelcho tugboat that was involved in rescuing Shackleton’s expedition in 1916, the Yelcho Base is a research center that belongs to Chile.

What was originally a base under the command of the Chilean Army was passed on to Chilean Antarctica Institute in 1980. It is nested on Doumer Island, not that far from the town of Villa Las Estrellas. In its long history stretching all the way back to 1962 when it started off as a submarine base, Yelcho also had a period of inactivity from 1998 to 2014. With room for about 15 people, Yelcho Base is now used for various scientific purposes with its small team constantly working in the laboratories.

Casey Station

Quite understandably, the Australian Antarctic Division has also got camps of its own on the cold, cold continent.

Casey Station, or just Casey amicably, used to belong to the US, however, Australia has taken it over after International Geophysical Year which ended in 1958. Unfortunately, the station was unusable at this point due to all the ice that has accumulated around the buildings. For that reason, Australians established Repstat or a ‘replacement station’. What’s unique about Repstat is that it features buildings on stilts, allowing the wind to blow beneath them and eliminate the problem of ice build-up.

Read more: Aurora Borealis in Norway

Nowadays, geologists and marine biologists use Casey as a staging ground for their research. The station is also used for observation and studies of climate change and how it is affecting widespread moss beds near Casey.

List of Antarctic Churches

Considering how plenty of people live in Antarctica, it’s only natural to see churches cropping up here and there, where the religious go to fulfill their spiritual needs. All of these places of worship are of different Christian denominations, and you can find them in research bases and towns in Antarctica:

• Chapel of Our Lady of the Snows
• Chapel of Santa María Reina de la Paz
• Chapel of Santisima Virgen de Lujan
• Chapel of the Snows
• San Francisco de Asis Chapel
• St. Ivan Rilski Chapel
• St. Volodymyr Chapel
• Trinity Church

Antarctica has its fair share of the human population and our civilization has already encroached on these snow-capped lands. If you’re a scientist looking to join an ongoing project down there, or simply a tourist trying to get to every landmass on Earth, you’re in luck. But don’t expect to evade any taxes down there! Antarctica is not a foreign country to provide you with a potential exemption, so tough break.

The land of colossal size, bigger than even Europe or Australia, Antarctica is the windiest and coldest continent on Earth. People usually refer to it as the frozen south – the beaches here aren’t golden and the temperatures are nowhere near warm. With everything taken into account, the only unanswered question remains: Is Antarctica A Desert?

It all depends on what we mean by desert in the first place. Scorching temperatures and sand dunes without a tree in sight could be the best description of a desert. Still, is there such thing as an icy desert and is Antarctica one?

What is a Desert?

The first thing that comes to mind when someone says desert is probably the great Sahara Desert. Geologically and geographically speaking, a desert is a vast, barren area without any rain, snow, or drizzle. As such, it’s an area that is ultimately hostile and unfavorable for the animal and plant life. These regions receive less than 10 inches of average annual rainfall and the temperature fluctuations are immense. They can change drastically and it frequently happens that an average daytime of 38°C plummets down to -4°C during the night.

Being the most fragile ecosystems on the planet, deserts usually only have two seasons: summer and winter. The annual precipitation i.e. products of the condensation of atmospheric water is highly unpredictable and uneven. When combined with the volatility of the temperature variations, it’s rather difficult to tell which season is which.

Read more: Traveling to Iceland – All you Need to Know

Is There Life in The Desert?

Some of the largest deserts in the world look like they might as well be on Mars or any other distant planet in the universe. It’s only logical why we may come to the conclusion that these space-like wastelands stand zero chances of containing any form of life. But is this really so?

As forbidding and apparently uninhabitable as they might seem, deserts around the world are actually brimming with living things. The residents of these regions range from the most simple ones, such as bacteria and fungi, all the way to most complex ones, such as animals and plants, and even people!

What is Antarctica?

There is quite a handful of facts about Antarctica and they all prove just how impressive this land is. First of all, Antarctica is the Earth’s southernmost continent, covering the massive surface of 14 million square kilometers. Not only is it the fifth largest continent but it’s also the coldest one. It is at Antarctica’s Vostok station that the coldest temperature on Earth was recorded and it was minus 89.2 degrees Celsius. Miraculously, the Dry Valleys of Antarctica are also the driest place on Earth.

Antarctica is also the largest single mass of ice in the world since ninety-nine percent of it is covered by ice while the average ice thickness is around 1.6 kilometers. Not all water on Antarctica is frozen, though. On the contrary, it is home to about 70 percent of the planet’s fresh water. To top it off, pristine freshwater Vostok lake is about the size of Lake Ontario and it’s buried beneath 3.7 kilometers of solid Antarctic ice.

Unbelievably enough, those are not the only curiosities surrounding Antarctica. This vast ice-capped continent is home to one of the longest mountain ranges on Earth – the 3,500 kilometers long Transantarctic Mountains which divide the continent into West Antarctica and East Antarctica. Last but not least, this land is also the one with many contrasts. Oddly enough, this continent boasts an active volcano, Mount Erebus, whose activity was last recorded in 2006.

Finally, Antarctica is a phenomenal place to witness the celestial aurora light show. Auroras are natural electric phenomena known for their colorful light displays in the sky. Unlike aurora borealis characteristic of the Arctic Circle, aurora australis or the southern lights are visible in Antarctica, especially between March and September.

Is There Life in Antarctica?

There are no native human Antarcticans and it wasn’t until 1899 that the first expedition laid its foot on this land’s surface. Permanent residents and indigenous people never existed in Antarctica and no one actually lives there for an indefinite period of time, not even to this day. The only settlements and civilian towns are scientific bases that vary in size. The scientists occupy the bases all year round although only a small number of them stays there during the winter months. Tourists, on the other hand, flock to Antarctica in staggering numbers.

Read more: Antarctica’s summer

According to Antarctica’s tourism statistics, around 40 000 people visit the continent annually. Though this is not an average travel destination, many adventurers still decide to embark on this journey. Many of them simply cruise around the Antarctic Peninsula and admire the icy scenery while only a small number of them step foot on the shore.

As far as the animal and plant life is concerned, the story is quite the opposite than their temporary human neighbors. Emperor penguins inhabit the continent and they are the most common bird of the South pole. They are not the only penguins there, however. Adelie penguins, Gentoo penguins, Chinstrap penguins, and King Penguins all reside here. They are often joined by Crabeater, Weddell, Southern Fur, and Leopard seals. Apart from penguins, other bird species inhabit Antarctica as well. Blue eyed shag, Giant petrel, Cape pigeon, and Snowy Sheathbill are only some of them.

Plants are extremely scarce here. Unlike the hot deserts where one can find an occasional shrub, tree, or a cactus, there are no trees or shrubs in Antarctica. The only ice-free parts of the continent are found on the peninsula which is exactly where only two species of flowering plants are found – Antarctic pearlwort and Antarctic hair grass. Other non-flowering flora includes liverworts and mosses that are able to survive in extreme environments.

Read more: Unforgettable Places in Norway

Antartica is Actually a No Man’s Land

As mentioned before, life is possible here but not sustainable at all. The scientists who stay there for long periods of them don’t make Antartica their permanent home. Apart from being extremely life-hostile, Antartica is actually a no man’s land. It has no government of its own, no native human population, no cities, no banks, no schools – nothing that makes up for our daily lives elsewhere.

After the Antarctic Treaty was signed, the governments of over 50 countries agreed to keep Antarctica demilitarized and promote international scientific cooperation through having their scientist and expeditions there. Having made scientific research their priority in this polar region, the governments have never had a tug of war over these territories.

Until recently, the ship was the only means of transport that could get you to these parts of the world. Today, there are “fly/sail” trips to this remote continent.

Apart from those places where scientists reside, there is almost no official accommodation in the forms of hotels or hostels. The only lodging here is The White Desert Camp. Staying here is out of the realm of possibility for a lot of people, simply because a week there costs around $80,000. The camp is the most remote property in the world, comprising several “sleeping pods” whose interiors redefine luxury. The hefty price tag repels the majority of travelers although celebrities such as Bear Grylls, Prince Harry, and Buzz Aldrin already ticked this one off their bucket lists.

The Final Verdict – Is Antarctica A Desert?

With everything taken into account, the ultimate answer to the initial question is yes – Antarctica is a desert. The absence of moisture or very small amounts of it classify Antarctica as a desert. Though fresh water is abundant in the Antarctica desert, there is no moisture in the air which is one of the main characteristics of deserts.

Though it doesn’t conform with the usual descriptions of the hot deserts we are accustomed to, it is still one of the most hostile and yet fascinating places on Earth. The life in the Antarctic desert surely does exist. Though scarce in the way we know it, life here is not impossible, at least not for some species but still, those don’t include humans. Instead, we should admire this chilly desert from afar and leave it as it is. With global warming becoming an increasingly worrisome issue, we should make the effort to save the seventh continent from melting and vanishing into thin air.

Bali is beautiful. The surf can be incredible, the food and people are great and the eternal summer never gets old. Travel in Bali always gives you something back. As a result, every digital nomad and their mum can tell you that Canggu is buzzing and that the vibe at Old Man’s on a Sunday evening is just straight-up special. But, at the same time, there has to be more to this Island of the Gods than all those samey Instagram posts?

Since the influx of surfers in the ’60s tourism has been Bali’s jam – it’s main squeeze. Traditionally tourism has been focused on the south of the island, but dig a little deeper and the rest of the island, its unexplored forests, volcanic ranges and vast lakes, are open to those brave enough to escape Kuta’s tourist-heavy main strip.

Travel like a local

First, you have to give a little thought to how you plan to get around. Bali is not replete with great public transport options and yes, of course, you could hire a local driver. But this is travel like a local not travel with a local.

So, what are your options? Bali does have a useful bus system. Bus terminals are dotted around the south, mainly in Denpasar, and can vary from larger buses to fairly basic minibuses. These offer a cheap, if – arguably – unreliable way to explore the island. Plus, it’s inevitable that you will need to organize more transport to get to further flung parts of the island.

Driving a motorbike in Bali

What would be my transport mode of choice? Come on, this is Bali. No doubt about it:  it’s the motorbike. Now, this is where I’m going to get all Health and Safety on you. You need an international driving license to drive in Bali legally, which I suggest you do. Unless, of course, you feel like spending some of your hard-earned cash lining the pockets of Bali’s Finest.

Next, wear a helmet! I still can’t help but be amazed at the sheer volume of tourists driving around without helmets. What, you think Bali tarmac is softer than the western kind? If you crash, even at spectacularly low speeds you will smash your head on the ground and you will get hurt, annoying loved ones around the world and the good people of Bali who have to scrap you up off the pavement.

With health and safety taken care of, a motorbike is your key to exploring Bali’s quieter, less-visited destinations. It can be rented fairly cheaply for the length of your stay. So, international driving license in one hand and helmet in the other, it’s time to hit the tarmac. But let your motorbike tour of Bali commence… the local way.

Read more: Sithonia’s Beach – Nikiti

Places in Bali

Bali is home to some staggering beauty and even with a lifetime of trips, it would be hard for you to see them all. But I am going to talk you through a few options to aim for on your little trip away from Kuta.

Lovina

Lovina is a chilled seaside town at the very north of the island. The ride here is phenomenally beautiful and takes you up and over Bali’s mountainous interior. The ride up can be pretty chilly and more than a little foggy, so go prepared. Locals in Bali will be carrying raincoats in their motorbike seats and I advise you to do the same.

The three-hour ride from Seminyak also takes in some tiny villages, tasty local warungs and more temples than you can shake a surfboard at. The atmospheric temple of Ulu Danu Beratan, situated on Lake Beratan, is particularly noteworthy. The temple offers up stunning lakeside views of the surrounding mountains and, depending on the time of year, can play host to some spectacular festivals and ceremonies.

Actually, a cluster of smaller villages universally know as Lovina, the area is home to some super friendly locals, incredibly cheap accommodation and great local food. Plus, it’s the draw of the area’s famed dolphin watching. Do the tour right and you will be in for a spellbinding addition to your trip.

Where to Sleep and Where to Eat in Lovina

Check into your welcoming accommodation and put your feet up, because Lovina is all about relaxing. With a narrow strip of sand for a beach, checking into a guesthouse with a pool is a massive plus. The options in Lovina are both stylish and cheap enough to feel like you are getting a bargain.

My recommendation would be Lovina Life, a modern boutique hotel. It’s not dripping with local charm but it’s relaxed and contemporary enough to keep you entertained. It’s also reasonably priced and within walking distance of the area’s main drags. It’s not dirt cheap though, with prices starting from around 550 000 Rp. Funky Place next door offers a fun, more budget-focused option, with prices starting at 225 000 Rp.

The cheap eats and down-to-earth bars dotted along Jalan Binaria and the even more mellow Jalan Mawar offer up many a reason to sit and enjoy the atmosphere, and a local brew or two. My highlights would be the Global Village Kafe, which has a menu oozing local flavor and offers the feel-good factor of profits going to a local charity. Also, check out the raft of beachside bars serving up ice-cold Bintangs dotted around Lovina’s much loved Dolphin Statue.

Break up your Lovina stay with massages, snorkeling trips, and the much-discussed dolphin tour. What’s not to love? You are guaranteed to leave feeling refreshed, relaxed and ready to head for the hills. Jump on your bike and head south, or perhaps on to one of our two other less-traveled destinations.

Links

• Lovina Life
• Funky Place
• Global Village Kafe

Read more: Vacation in Koviou Beach in Sithonia

Bali Barat National Park

Situated on the northwest point of Bali, the Bali Barat National Park is home to forests overrun with local flora and fauna, miles of mangrove swamps and Bali’s greatest dive site. The park can be easily accessed from a number of quaint local villages, making authentic travel a rewarding and exciting experience.

If coming from Lovina, the main road takes you past dizzying waterfalls, Buddhist monasteries, and Bali’s vineyards. If heading up from the south, the most obvious route takes you up and over the mountains again, past the Jatiluwih rice terraces – a real must see!

Staying in Pemuteran, on the road from Lovina, can give you the bonus of ease of travel to the park entrance. Plus, it gets you close to Labuan Lalang to arrange boats over to Pulau Menjangan.

Where to Sleep and Where to Eat in Bali Barat National Park

Dimpil Homestay ticks all of the boxes and gets you onto the beach in three minutes. This clean and simple homestay is run by the loveliest family and comes in at 545 000 Rp a night. Watch out – Pemuteran’s cheaper options can be hit and miss. Blues Guest House scores highly in my books and tips the scales at a budget-friendly 205 000 Rp.

For cheap eats, Warung Prapat Sari comes highly recommended with heaping portions of Balinese treats coming in at around 40 000 Rp per meal.

Things to Do Bali Barat National Park

Now, what you really traveled all this way for. Hiking and diving are the two huge draws of Bali Barat National Park. The park headquarters are found in Cekik, where you can arrange guides and permits. Park entrance fees are 200 000 Rp.

While trekking, be on the lookout for monkeys, deer, buffalo, lizards, and snakes. Sadly, the park’s last tiger was shot in 1937, but for a gold star, you can spot the super rare Bali Myna. There are said to be as few as 100 Myna left in the wild. Spot one of these bad boys and you’ll be a hero back at the headquarters!

As for diving, Palau Menjangan is Bali’s granddaddy. However, unlike the splendour of Lombok’s Gili Islands, the dive sites aren’t caked in tourists! The underwater pleasure-land is pretty novice friendly and easily accessible from Labuan Lalang, a small harbour located inside the park.

While in town, be sure to drop in at the Garden of the Gods to witness the multiple statues and sculptures of Balinese gods placed about 400 m offshore. The island also boasts Bali’s oldest temple, Pura Gili Kencana.

Links

• Dimpil Homestay
• The Menjangan

Amed

Now, the last place on my Bali magical mystery tour sits on the east side of the island: Amed. A far-flung collection of eastern coastal villages, Amed is perfect for really forgetting the Seminyak crowds.

The journey east takes you up the well-worn path past Sanur and into the shadows of Mount Agung, but once you arrive in Amed everything changes. Life gets slow, yoga and diving are the norms and Balinese ceremonies seem like a daily occurrence.

Great diving and a friendly, chilled to the bone atmosphere give the area a real sense of charm and character. Stay in Jemeluk for chilled traveler vibes right on the beach, or head slightly inland to the nearly horizontal Selang for isolation and authentic village life.

Where to Sleep and Where to Eat in Amet

Sama Sama Cafe and Bungalows in Jemeluk is my pick of the bunch, with knockout sunsets and prices starting at 300 000 Rp. Good Karma Bungalows in Selang offers bright decor and sea views, plus a great pool! The bungalows are right on the sand, so why not drift away a few hours sipping Bintangs! Prices start from 450 000 Rp.

Warung Osin will knock your lights out (trust me that’s a good thing) with authentic Indonesian flavors. As you’d expect, the seafood is killer. They also have great vegan options – a rarity in sleepy Amed.

Things to Do in Amet

Diving is the main draw just up the road in Tulamben and if you can drag yourself from the chilled-out haze for long enough, diving Tulamben’s shipwreck is a must. Torpedoed in 1942 the US cargo ship Liberty beached in Tulamben. A massive earthquake pushed the wreck back into the sea in the 60s. The dive site is over 100 m long and dives go between 15 m and 30 m. The site is busy (understandably) and staying in Amed gets you the head start on tour operators that ship divers in from Lovina and Candidasa. Keep it local by using Organisasi Dive Guide Tulamben, the area’s local dive guide group.

Links

• Sama Sama Cafe and Bungalows
• Good Karma Bungalows
• Organisasi Dive Guide Tulamben

Conclusion

Whether it’s being invited to a ceremony in Bali, visiting a cute homestay and hanging out with your new pal Nyoman or simply sitting by the sea, contemplating life, Bali’s got you covered. Having a motorbike in Bali and getting off the beaten path to travel like a local is beyond rewarding. Canggu and Seminyak are great and Kuta is an f’d up hoot but break the back of the mountains and you’ll see a side of Bali that is seldom spotted by the hordes of people pouring into Sky Garden on a Friday night. Be brave and do it!

Greenland is one of the most remote destinations in the world. Despite being the largest island in the world, three quarters of Greenland is covered by an immense ice-sheet. Furthermore, the country has a population of less than 60,000. Much like Siberia and the Canadian Northern Territories, traveling to Greenland will provide you with an otherworldly experience. The sites and adventures you will experience here are like nothing else.

For those who love intrepid adventure and excitement, Greenland is an absolute must. This snow and ice covered wilderness will simply take your breath away. Furthermore, the inhabitants of Greenland are fascinating; it is a true pleasure to see how they survive at the edge of the earth. If you are considering traveling to Greenland then you are in luck! We have provided a list of 10 things to help you prepare for this once in a lifetime expedition!

1. Traveling to Greenland will involve a flight from Iceland or a cruise

Iceland is the closest inhabited land that provides air travel to Greenland. The flight from Iceland to Greenland takes approximately 2 hours depending on which coast you fly to. The main Greenland airports are at Ilulissat, Nuuk, and Ittoqqortoormiit. All three of these airports are serviced by Air Greenland or Iceland Air and have flights to Reykjavik (Keflavik). Aside from flying, the other main mode of traveling to Greenland is by a cruise. A Greenland cruise will often involve a visit to Iceland and even the remote island of Svalbard.

Read more: The ultimate Iceland packing list

2. The seasons will dictate what activities you can enjoy

Nowhere in the world (except maybe Antarctica) are the seasons so varied as in Greenland. Due to this high variance, you may find what to do in Greenland will vary too. The below is a breakdown of the seasons in Greenland:

– Summer: Long, warm & bright days (June to August)
– Winter: Short, cold and frosts days with little sunlight (December to March)
– Spring: Transition from winter to summer (May)
– Autumn: Transition from summer to winter (September to November)

During the summer there are plenty of hiking opportunities. During winter, dog sledding is an absolute must. Finally, spring and autumn can be varied as the weather will shift quickly.

3. You will stay in a small village with a population of mere thousands

The largest settlement in Greenland is Nuuk with a population of just 16,400. After that, villages such as Sisimiut and Ilulissat have populations of 6,000 or less. When you travel to Greenland the experience will be like nothing else. There are no huge modern cities or sprawling metropolises. This wilderness is made up of small populations inhabiting coastal towns. It is simply wondrous and a welcome break from the busy rush of city life.

Read more: Antarctica Cities

4. Weather extremes could potentially disrupt your sleeping pattern

If you are a light sleeper you may struggle when traveling to Greenland. We have touched upon the weather already – summer brings near constant daylight, whereas winter brings almost perpetual darkness. The midnight sun can disrupt people’s sleeping pattern and keep them awake. Alternatively, the winter darkness can cause tiredness. During summer consider taking a sleeping mask to cover your eyes. In winter, consider taking some Vitamin D supplements in absence of sunshine.

5. To make the most of your trip, you should be physically fit

Greenland is a remote destination. The inhabitants of the epic wilderness are hardy and can resist the elements. This is a totally different experience than relaxing on a beach in Spain for example. When traveling to Greenland you will undoubtedly do some hiking and plenty of walking. Furthermore, you may even embark upon a Glacier walk or other outdoor ventures. In short, to get the most from this expedition you should be physically fit. You don’t have to be an ultra-athlete, but it will help if you are stable on your feet.

6. Food and drink are generally expensive so bring plenty of cash!

It is widely known that most Scandinavian countries are expensive for tourists. Greenland is no exception. Much of Greenland’s supplies such as food and commodities are imported – this is obviously not cheap. Due to this fact, you can expect to pay a premium for meals and alcohol. The tour packages themselves and flights from Iceland to Greenland aren’t too bad; however, you should try and bring plenty of Danish Kroner for eating out and buying souvenirs etc. One positive however is that most day trips will include a packed lunch and refreshments.

7. The wildlife and landscapes are truly magnificent so bring a camera

What do you picture when imagining Greenland? A never-ending ice-sheet perhaps? Or Eskimos? This is so far from the truth, but the truth is so much more exciting! The coastal areas of Greenland are rugged and beautiful. You will experience huge ice fjords packed with colossal bergs. You will sail through pack ice and watch the midnight sun glisten on the water. You may even see Humpback Whales surfacing in pods and gorgeous husky dogs preparing for long sled journeys. A camera is an absolute must when visiting this part of the world as the shots you can get can be magnificent. To help you take those magnificent shots, check our 10 amazing travel photography hacks!

8. Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark so prepare accordingly

Many people believe that Greenland is a country in its own right. Greenland is actually a constituent country; it is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. It is one of the least densely populated countries in the world. When traveling to Greenland, you will need Danish Kroner – this is the main accepted currency. Furthermore, it is advisable to touch up on your Danish. Learn some simple phrases such as hello, yes, thank you and goodbye. The locals will appreciate the effort although English is widely spoken too.

Read more: Best Cities in Europe for English Speakers

9. Expect long days and plenty of boat travel

Most of you will travel to Greenland during the summer. Due to this fact, in most cases, you will experience virtually constant daylight. During the height of the summer, there can be up to 20 hours of daylight. Furthermore, the sun may never fully dip past the horizon. Witnessing the midnight sun in Greenland is a truly awe-inspiring experience.

During this everlasting daylight, you will undoubtedly experience many boat rides. Some of Greenland’s most exciting sites are only accessible via boat. It is important that you are comfortable with sea travel. You do not want to miss sites such as the mighty Eqip Sermia Glacier, or the Ilulissat Icefjord for example.

10. Warm clothing may not be a necessity, but prepare for the worst regardless

As mentioned, Greenland winters are bitter and cold. Temperatures fall rapidly and there is little daylight. If you visit during winter, warm clothing as an absolute must. Ensure you have a full thermal layer and a protective Parka coat. Furthermore, ensure you have thick gloves and a hat that covers your ears. Alternatively, in summer, the weather is not as unforgiving. If you are hiking in the mainland, you could even strip down to trousers and a shit as it can get warm. If you are sailing, however, the open waters will be cold no matter the season so always wrap up when at sea!

Traveling to Greenland really can be the adventure of a lifetime. This remarkable wilderness will truly open your eyes. You will see a part of the world that few seldom have the chance to witness. Furthermore, you will get the chance to test yourself against the elements and isolation. The only question now is what you want to do whilst in Greenland, and when you want your expedition to begin!

The Greek islands have a strong reputation for being romantic and ridiculously picturesque. Samos, a Greek island off Turkey’s west coast, is no exception. A weekend in Samos is the perfect way to get a taste of Greek culture.

From its food and famous local wine, to its fascinating ancient history – there are plenty of things to do in Samos. Lounge on the beach and indulge in local culinary delights or hit the roads for a real adventure. Samos is a place suited for every agenda regardless of the experience you seek.

It would be easy to spend more than a weekend in Samos. With its legendary history, many beaches, and lush nature, there’s so much to discover and explore. But, don’t worry if you’ve only got a few days on this famous Greek island. From things to do, sights to see, and experiences to discover – follow this guide to get the most out of a weekend in Samos!

Quick Introduction to Samos

Samos is part of the Eastern Aegean Islands group, located in the Aegean Sea. Samos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the mythical birth place of Hera, the Motherland to the famous mathematician and philosopher Pythagoras, and a wine production hub.

Getting to Samos

Samos is accessible by ferry or plane. There are two main ferry terminals – one in Vathy and one in Karlovassi. There is a third, Pythagorion, that operates only in summer. Greek islands. Vathy and Pythagorion are quite close –15 kilometers apart – on the east side of Samos. Karlovassi sits on the northwest of the island. Unless you plan to stay there, we don’t recommend arriving there.

The international airport is in the south of the island near Pythagorion.

We’d recommend to take the ferry to Pythagorion because this is also where we’d recommend to stay (see below). However, there’s cheap public transportation to Pythagorion if you do arrive in Vathy. The bus takes about 30-40 minutes and costs less than 2 Euros.

Getting out of Samos

Book your return ticket out of Vathy, the island’s capital. Arrive early in Vathy (AKA Samos Town) and take the extra time to explore the island’s main town.

Where to stay in Samos

Vathy is the biggest area in Samos with plenty of shops, bars and restaurants. It also hosts the biggest ferry terminal on the island. Yet, the charm of Samos gets a bit lost in this bustling port city. Instead, book a ferry to the small port of Pythagorion and stay in that town instead. This little town is cozy, walkable, welcoming, and has gorgeous sea-front views.

How to explore Samos

Walking around Pythagorion is easy. It’s definitely better than navigating the narrow streets by car. There’s a lot to see within walking distance of Pythagorion as well. The stuff that’s a bit further away can be reached by bicycle.

To see the rest of Samos, though, you need wheels. Motorbikes are available to rent only if you have a proper motorbike license. Car rentals are everywhere, too, and driving may be a more comfortable way to go on a full island tour.

On the first day, rent a bicycle and explore the attractions around Pythagorion. The next day, rent a car and make a full trip around Samos!

Read more: Is Ryanair The New Eurail Pass?

Check out our Samos Weekend Itinerary below!

Friday

Arrive to Pythagorion via ferry. The pier is mere meters from the actual town and a short walk will find you there in a few minutes. Find your guest house, settle in, then head down to the harbor for a relaxing lunch on the seaside. Small restaurants with reasonably priced food and drink line the waterfront.

Pythagorion Beach

After lunch, rent a bicycle and pedal a few minutes to Pythagorion Beach. Umbrellas and chairs are available if you buy something at one of the bars or restaurants along the shore. If not, you can plop on the pebbles and take in the views on the ancient castle just off the point.

Heraion Of Samos

Pedal a few more kilometers to the Heraion of Samos, the biggest temple in Greece dedicated to the goddess of marriage and women, Hera. The Heraion of Samos is an ancient site dating back to the 8th century BC. In its heyday, 155 columns and a bevy of splendid ancient sculptures adorned the temple. It is this site, among others, that earned Samos a UNESCO World Heritage crown.

Saturday

This is the car rental day. Pick up the car as early as possible and get going!

Pythagoras Cave

The drive to the cave is about 1 hour west from the center of Pythagorion. After following the twisting route through the traditional villages, the road opens up along the coast. Keep going and you’ll find the cave on the right side of the road at the bottom of a very steep hill.

The Pythagoras Cave is actually composed if three chambers. The Greek mathematician and philosopher, Pythagoras, used this cave to isolate himself from society. He claimed this allowed him the chance to think. Additionally, it enabled him to escape what he saw as an excessive lifestyle.

There’s a steep climb to the top via makeshift stairs that takes about 20-minutes. This location also houses several ancient chapels that are open to the public. The caves themselves are quite small and visitors are unable to fully explore them. However, the site is totally worth a visit due to its significant history and amazing sea vistas!

Potami Waterfall

After the caves, drive another 1 hour to the northern coast of Samos to find the Potami Waterfall.

The waterfall is clearly marked and road side parking is available.

The path to the waterfall starts out as an easy paved path that turns to dirt. After 15 minutes or so, this path ends where it meets a stream and a pool of water. You have two options from here. You can climb the vertical ladder to a treehouse café and then follow the dirt road down to a small stream. Or you can wade into a pool of water and follow the stream through the narrow canyon. If you opt to go up to the treehouse café, you can still reach the falls by following the small stream further up.

The water level can reach neck-high and it’s something easier to swim rather than to walk along the slippery, rocky stream-bed. There are also other small waterfalls to climb over with the help of a rope. After all this, reaching the Potami Falls will feel like quite an accomplishment!

Lemonakia Beach

After the waterfall trek, jump back on the main coastal road. Up next is Lemonakia Beach, one of Samos’ most picturesque areas. Free umbrellas and lounge chairs line the pebbly beach and the protected bay is a perfect place to swim. There’s also a small café selling drinks and snacks.

Kokkari Beach

End the day at Kokkari Beach, a few minutes away from Lemonakia. This beach runs parallel to the main road but retains its cozy feel thanks to the little guesthouses and cafes lining the shore. From Kokkari, it’s about 30 minutes back to Pythagorion.

Sunday

Take it easy on the last day of your weekend in Samos.

Archeological Museum of Pythagorion

The Archeological Museum is walkable from Pythagorion center. It’s worth at least a 1-2 hour visit on your last day. The two-story museum houses thousands of artifacts found all around Samos. Some of the items date back as far as the 5th century B.C.!

Some of the highlights on the first level include clay pottery, jewelry, figurines, and gold coins, although this is just a warm-up for the second-floor. Upstairs is solely dedicated to the proud display of marble statues and busts.

Vathy

After the museum, take the bus outside Pythagorion center to Vathy. If possible, book your ferry for late afternoon so you have time to explore the capital for a few hours. Vathy has a huge harbor with shops, restaurants, and cafes lining the waterfront. Dine at a local taverna and take in the last views Samos before heading to the pier and boarding the ferry.

After this whirlwind weekend in Samos, you may need a few days to recover. However, we’re betting that as soon as you do, you’ll be itching to check out the hundreds of other inhabited Greek islands just waiting to be discovered! You’ll even be surprised that there is a Greek city that even made it in our list of 5 Cheapest Cities in Western Europe!

In a country made up of over 7000 islands, there are only a few specialities that can be thought of as “national dishes”. Lechon is one of those specialities, that plays a special role in the Filipino culture and traditions.

Lechon is a Spanish word for suckling pig. It is a whole pig, roasted for several hours over charcoal. This dish is the culinary centerpiece for every celebration or fiesta. From weddings, birthday celebrations and Christmas, no festivity is complete without lechon.

Cebu, the second largest city in the Philippines after Manila is famous for their mouthwatering lechon. The cooking style and distinctive taste makes it the Filipino’s favorite.

The pigs are stuffed with seasonings such as garlic, onions, soy sauce, lemongrass, salt, and a variety of herbs. The pigs are roasted slowly and hand-turned over hot coals for hours, until the skin becomes crispy and the inside meat becomes tender and flavorful.

In the Philippines, don’t miss a stop in Cebu for lechon, which Anthony Bourdain, American ex-chef and TV personality describes as “the best lechon ever”.

Here are the three best local restaurants in Cebu for lechon.

1- Zubuchon – “the best pig ever”

Zubuchon skyrocketed to fame after Anthony Bourdain called it the “best pig ever” in 2009. Ever since then, the Zubuchon brand has grown, serving average of 2,000 people a day and ranking 5th out of 547 restaurants in Cebu.

The secret for their success, according to Joel Binamira, the man behind Zubuchon, is their recipe and roasting process. They start with backyard raised pigs, fed with a diet of fresh vegetables and organic feeds. To flavor the meat, lots of garlic, onion bulbs, leeks, and a special medley of aromatic herbs are stuffed into the belly.

To achieve the extra crispy skin, Binamira invented a tool to prick the skin all over and allow the skin to crackle as the fat from the prickling would ooze out during the roasting process.

Zubuchon has several branches in Cebu City. From small takeout kiosk, drive-thrus and restaurant branches. In February 2017, they opened their first restaurant in Metro Manila in Makati City.

2 – CnT Lechon – The Local’s Favorite

Before Zubuchon, CNT was Cebu’s favorite lechon provider. For many locals, CNT serves the best finger-licking roast pig goodness. If you ask your hotel or cab driver, CnT Lechon is probably the first place they will recommend.

The owner, Norman Quijada, a Cebuano, built his empire roasting pigs since 1987. The name cames from the initials of his wife and daughter. He started his business small, selling lechons at home, to eventually more than six branches in Cebu.

At the restaurants, be prepared to wait. The spaces are cramped and you’ll have to brace yourself for long queues. The lechon is meaty, less fatty, juicy and cheaper without sacrificing the taste.

There is no such thing as too much lechon in Cebu. Besides Zubuchon, CnT Lechon is another place for the famous roast pig.

3 – Rico’s Lechon – The Pioneer of Spicy Lechon

When it comes to spicy lechon in Cebu, there is only one word that comes to mind: Rico’s Lechon.

The owner Enrico “Rico” Dionson started his business in 1997 as he was looking for a way to provide a better future for his family. He started out by giving samples to friends and clients who found the lechon too salty. That’s when he improved his recipe and began using the best quality products, giving birth to Rico’s Lechon – “Da Best Gyud.”

Rico’s Lechon got its big break when the former President of the Philippines, Joseph Estrada discovered his lechon, through a common friend. He declared it as his favorite lechon and had Rico prepare dozens of the Filipino favorite at the Malacañang Palace. The business took off.

Always an entrepreneur, Rico’s was the first to introduce the “Spicy Lechon” variety in the Philippines. The spiciness is infused in the meat but not the skin, so for those who aren’t fans of spicy food can still enjoy the crispy lechon skin.

Rico’s uses local and organic pigs stuffed with leeks, lemongrass, tomato, vinegar, ginger, and other herbs and spices. The pigs are then spit-roasted over charcoal slowly for two to four hours.

Today, you’ll find Rico’s Lechon at several locations throughout Cebu.

On the whole, for the best lechon in the Philippines, you want to go to Cebu. Locals are passionate about their favorites. Some will say CnT is the best, while others will swear by Rico’s; you just have to try them all!