Highlights for a Lifetime: Recollecting Antarctica & Patagonia with Lindblad Expeditions

What trips do you remember?? How do you retain your memories?

We’ll always remember the Lindblad Expeditions journey, “Antarctica and Patagonia: Legendary Ice and Epic Fjords ,” aboard the National Geographic Resolution .

One of many highlights, the arrival, was like no other. We had crossed the open seas, the infamous Drake Passage, and arrived on the frozen continent dramatically appearing amidst the late spring, gray clouds. While wrapped in long jackets, outside on deck, feeling the cold on our cheeks, we were spellbound by the bold landscape.

Highlights are memories that stay vivid over time.

Although unlike any place experienced by most travelers, it was also Lindblad Expeditions’ stellar curation and Expedition, Hospitality and Crew teams that made the experience extraordinary.

We’ll never forget paddling quietly along the shore in our yellow kayak, not too far from James Ross Island (where we had walked on “fast” ice) and witnessing water, snow, sky and wildlife merriment. The sound of swimming Adélie penguins gently leaping in and out of the water was as wonderful as the sight of the adorable birds so near our little vessel!

Lindblad Expeditions is committed to active exploration. We left the ship twice a day. The order of operations was well- organized into four groups, each named after an Antarctic bird.? Whether in the Zodiacs, hiking, kayaking and even jumping into the frigid waters for a plunge, splendid moments presented themselves everyday.

On Thanksgiving Day with snow flurries dropping into the Zodiac, we followed behind our remarkable ship, the National Geographic Resolution. Our Captain carved a path through the icy water of the Lemaire Channel. At the helm, he explored with both confidence and glee while landing on ice or smashing through it.

Most evenings we visited the Bridge after dinner and interacted with the energetic crew. We always felt safe. The navigational technology and digital maps were mesmerizing.

Golden nuggets are extremely personal. Even when shared, travel experiences are no one else’s except your own.

When bad weather arrived along the western Antarctic Peninsula, the expedition team and ship’s crew nimbly adjusted plans. Although not part of the original itinerary we awoke one morning in a calm Weddell Sea. Blue sky and sun shone on massive icebergs surrounding us. The eternal views, not soon to be forgotten, lasted past 11:00 p.m.

Who has ever sipped hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps in a Zodiac while witnessing the grandeur of the Pia Glacier in Patagonia??Or had their cabin cleaned twice a day??How about dining at the Chef’s table with a meal reflecting the heritage of the southern continent? The hospitality team constantly spoiled us. The food was delicious.

Like the stability of a majestic iceberg we turn towards our travel recollections for reassurance. Endearing memories act as a compass for beauty in the world.

After returning home from a trip most of us are rapidly consumed by the demand our daily lives. Suddenly the destination feels so far away, almost as if we never visited.

Don’t despair! We always have access to our most memorable travel experiences. Wherever and whenever you travel, the highlights are within; you just have to notice.

Here are Four Ways to Recollect Places You Love:

1. Talk about a trip with your travel companions. Ask: “When you look back, what stands out?”

1. Before falling to sleep, consider what you feel thankful for about a destination on that day.

1. If you kept a journal, revisit your? entries.

1. Peruse your photos. Images will create an emotional connection!

Until our next journey with Lindblad Expeditions, we will continue to travel again and again recalling our magnificent journey to Antarctica, thankful for the memories, relationships, and education that will forever remain.

Lindblad Expeditions offers so many extraordinary opportunities to see the world and “bank” never-to-be-forgotten life experiences. As a travel advisor, it’s a reliable recommendation.

In the comments please let us know,

What trips do you remember most? What keeps the memories fresh?

• Amy Quinn

Spirit Road Travel LLC