Antartica - to go or not to go?
 

I've been debating about a possible trip to Antartica for a few years.

Recently, I've started to gather information, there isn't too much besides descriptive information about people's trips, ships, etc. The do's and don'ts information is scarce.

It's no secret that it is an expensive destination. It is worth the cost?

I'd like to hear about the experiences of fodorites who have been to Antartica.

If you haven't been, would you go to Antartica?

Thanks.

I've also been considering making the voyage in a few years (I'll need that long to put the money aside!). You'll find some trip reports at the flyertalk forum - here's the link:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/antarctica-439/

It's not easy to locate the forum from their home page. It's under "Travel & Dining Destination:The World".

The are also some reports on the cruisecritic.com website. You'll find them under South American Cruises.

Thank you Margaretlb, I have read the thread on Cruise Critic. I will take a look at Flyer Talk.

greetings
I am working on ships cruising to Antarctica. I can only tell you "go for it". so many of my passengers told me cruise after cruise that this was the best thing they have ever done in their lives.
You should definitely choose a cruise that combines Antarctica with South Georgia (Antarctica for the impressive ice bergs and incredible nature, as well as whales and South Georgia for the incredible wildlife).
you should book a smaller ship that is a member of IATA to make the most out of your trip. bigger ships are more comfortable, but cannot do the landings on the continent, they just cruise around. One of the best cobination of expedition ship with reasonable comfort is the Minerva (former explorer II where I used to work). and they have exceptional expedition staff onboard.
hope you will make it there one day!
Beat

My friend did this as a gift for her 60th birthday. She is a travel agent, and done it all. She said, it was a trip of a lifetime for her - I don't remember any details, only her excitement.