Expect to be amazed and overawed: your Antarctica expedition is going to be purely magical.

In Antarctica, expect the unexpected

There’s no such thing as a “typical day” in Antarctica, and that’s because Antarctica isn’t your typical destination!

The land of snow and pack ice, freezing winds and strong currents is a land that’s defined by nature, seasonal differences and daily – sometimes, hourly – climatic changes.

All Antarctic expedition cruises follow an ‘intended route’ with pre-determined landing points, but, on the actual day, anything is possible. But never fear, Antarctic expedition crews are outstandingly experienced: when a specific landing site becomes inaccessible, they will simply find another!

On a fabulous day, you can enjoy between 2 (standard) and 4 landings. On bad days, you won’t be able to set foot on land at all. In this case, you’ll get to enjoy the phenomenal spectacle from the comfort and warmth of your expedition ship instead. Let us assure you, this is not a bad compromise!

One day in a truly extraordinary place –what an average (and flexible) day in Antarctica will entail:

Early wake-up!

The sound of the anchor descending into the frosty depths of the Arctic waters is usually your wake-up call at around 5am. Expedition ships do most of their travelling at night, rocking you (sort of) gently to sleep while driving you to a beautiful spot. If you’re an early riser you can head up to the deck to soak up the views, grab a hot cup of coffee and a freshly-baked muffin to tide you over until breakfast. If not, lounge in bed a little longer until breakfast is served.

7-8am Breakfast Time

Breakfast is usually served buffet-style, with a choice of cold and hot treats. Make sure you fill up as you’ll need plenty of energy today!

There’s always a wonderful, excited vibe in the air at brekky time, as everyone anticipates the delights to be seen and experienced. Make sure you leave plenty of time to get changed into your excursion gear: the action starts pronto!

8-11.30am First On-land Excursion

Don your rubber boots and extra-warm jacket, step on the gangplank and take a crewmember’s hand to get on the Zodiac (rubber ducky) that’ll take you ashore.

After the first few days, the group will have the line-up and hop-on process down to a fine art!

If you weren’t fully awake at breakfast time, you certainly will be when the freezing Antarctic wind hits your face at double-speed! Perhaps you’ll have a colony of penguins awaiting your arrival or maybe a whale will escort you there. No time to ponder though, the boats must zip back and forth to make sure every guest is on land in a jiffy to maximise their excursion time.

Your activities here will depend on where you are but typically, you’ll have a couple of hours to explore, take plenty of photos of waddling penguins and sunbathing seals then walk to a nearby vantage point to soak up sweeping views.

11.30am – 1.30pm Lunch is Served

You’re surprisingly hungry again. How does that happen? Lunch is served and you tuck into a delicious lamb steak, expertly grilled by the crew on the back-deck BBQ.

As you sit back and relax, reliving your morning wildlife encounters, you order a glass of Argentinian vino as you hear the anchor being retracted. The ship begins its short voyage to your next landing spot.

You’ve heard that life in Antarctica is tough…..but not from where you’re sitting!

1.30 – 3.30pm Second On-land Excursion

Time to put that outer gear on again: it’s second landing time!

This afternoon, you’ll visit a scientific research station where you’ll get to meet some of the crew and learn about life in this beautiful but brutal environmental. They’ll share details of the work they carry out here so you can learn more about the importance of this amazing continent and the implications of the research that’s carried out.

3.30-7pm Relaxing Afternoon

Back on board your expedition ship, the Captain announces that there will be no more landings for the day. You change into your comfortable clothes and either take your book to the library for some downtime, join the excellent lecture on Antarctic history in the lecture room or, perhaps, sit on the back deck as the ship begins to move, just to soak up the sights of Antarctica gliding right past you.

6pm Sunset

If you visit Antarctica at a time of year where the sun actually sets, this is the most magical moment of all, and one your Captain will not miss!

Your ship negotiates a narrow channel, flanked on both sides by steep icy cliffs where leopard seals sleep. They’ve noticed your arrival and keep their eyes on you as you spot a humpback whale breaching a short distance away.

The horizon and landscape turn a dusty shade of pink, then a fiery red as you feel the temperature drop. But you wouldn’t think of going inside now – the show is magnificent and you don’t want to miss a mere moment.

7-8.30pm Dinner is Served

Your a-la-carte dinner tonight includes a decadent crème brûlée for dessert which you enjoy while swapping stories and photos of the day’s outings with other passengers. 

Later, attend the after-dinner lecture about penguins, watch a movie in the common lounge or retire to the lounge bar with your newfound friends.

How to get there

Most Antarctic expeditions depart from Ushuaia, Argentina –  the Southern tip of South America –  although a few times every summer, special expeditions depart from Hobart, Tasmania!

These trips are longer (having three times the amount of distance to cover) and more costly given the added fuel and time needed, but are also much more immersive, taking guests to the remote Eastern side of the Antarctic Peninsula, where other ships don’t go.

Depending on your ship, it will carry between 100-200 guests and can offer anything from a pool, spa, sauna and fitness centre to a hair salon and casino!

Chose an adventure style cruise offering camping and kayaking, or a more relaxing cruise including Turkish hammam (yes please!) and theatre room!

No matter which way you chose to travel, a trip to Antarctica is unlike anything else and one you won’t forget. With climate change affecting this continent rapidly, what better time then now to visit this magical wonder!

To book an incredible Antarctic cruise, call Rosie at Mosaic Travel on (03) 5275 4583

The post Expedition Antarctic – What To Expect on an Antarctic Cruise appeared first on Mosaic Travel.

Where on Earth are the Galapagos, anyway? How do you get there and how does one get around and meet all these fantastical creatures?

One unforgettable step at a time. That’s how!

What and where are the Galapagos?

The Galapagos Islands belong to Ecuador and sit about 1000km off the country’s Western shores. To reach this fiercely protected archipelago, you must fly either from Quito (the Ecuadorian capital) or the seaside town of Guayaquil.

The Galapagos are volcanic in nature and surrounded by mineral-rich waters which attract a large variety of birds and an abundance of marine life. The volcanic activity together with the extreme isolation of the Islands, led to the development of unusual animal life which inspired Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection after his visit in 1835.

UNESCO have added the Galapagos to it’s World heritage list calling it a ‘living museum and showcase of evolution’. These 21 Islands are teeming with wildlife but only a few inhabited by man.

What kind of animals can you see in the Galapagos?

Expect to see an array of unique wildlife not found anywhere else on Earth!

Wildlife encounters in the Galapagos are an absolute guarantee and, because animals haven’t been hunted here for decades, they are unafraid and rather curious!

You don’t just spot iguanas, giant tortoises and colourful birds in the Galapagos, you have to walk around, beside and carefully over them! Especially the sea lions, who take up prime position on the beach!

You’ll snorkel with curious seals and dive deep with hammerhead sharks. See hundreds of unique bird species and recognise animals from all those wildlife documentaries you’ve watched. Except in the Galapagos, you’ll feel like you’re living in one!

Best time to go to the Galapagos

It is always a good time to visit the Galapagos! Depending on what you would like to see and do, every month is a winner for one reason or another.

The Equator runs through these Islands but they are anything but tropical. Both the sea and wind currents can be chilly and, although there’s plenty of luscious wilderness, it just doesn’t feel like the tropics. Expect temperatures to hover around 24C degree all year long.

The rainy season lasts from December to May with the rain lowering underwater visibility for divers. But, water and air temperatures are higher at this time.

Wildlife events – nesting and birthing of turtles, courtship of various birds and migration of certain marine life (humpback whales!) – are dictated by seasons, so if there’s a specific event you want to see, you can time your visit accordingly.

The bad news is that no matter when you visit the Galapagos, you simply won’t be able to experience everything this magical place has to offer. The fantastic news, however, is that no matter the time of year, there will always be an incredible event to witness.

Getting around the Galapagos

Although there are some options for land-based visits, the best way to experience the Galapagos is on a short cruise.

Distances are considerable, and if you base yourself on one of the few Islands that allow it, you’ll only have options for a few day trips to other Islands with most of the day spent travelling to and from.

On a typical day of a Galapagos cruise, you’ll wake up at sunrise after having calmly sailed through the night. Anchor by a stunning uninhabited island and after a delicious breakfast, it’s time to disembark the ship and explore!

Every Island on the Galapagos offers something unique: be it a specific colony of birds, resident tortoises, historic sites, stunning beaches or sensational hiking trails. Mornings are usually spent exploring an Island on foot whilst the afternoons are usually dedicated to water sports like SCUBA diving, snorkelling and swimming, so you can explore the underwater World of the Galapagos.

After a day of exploring, enjoy a refreshing drink on the deck, soak up the sights around you and recap the day’s encounters.

The Galapagos are a magical, natural wonderland. No two days are ever the same here, with each stop offering a wealth of great things to see and do and always leaving you in awe.

To book an exciting trip to The Galapagos,

call Rosie at Mosaic Travel on (03) 5275 4583

The post Ultimate Galapagos Guide appeared first on Mosaic Travel.

I was able to learn a lot about the Islands, get up close with some ocean predators and find the best spots for Mosaic travellers.

Flying into the capital Male puts you just 465km’s from the equator which explains the strong sun from morning until late afternoon. Expect blue skies, over 10 hours of sunshine per day and temperatures in the low 30’s. It also puts you in close proximity to the 1100+ picture perfect Islands.

To transfer to your chosen Island, step out of the airport to find speed boats lined up like taxis at the airport dock, or fly via sea plane.

Yes, the water really is like this!

At first I couldn’t believe it. From the moment we set off from Male, passing local and resort Islands on our speed boat, I asked “is this real?? It looks like a swimming pool!”

Once settled on the Island, a swim was first on the agenda. Again, I was left standing in disbelief but this time on the shore where the water is so clear, a baby black tip shark and manta ray could be seen swimming in the shallows.

The sand is almost pure white and the water, a clear but vibrant turquoise. It really is as good as it looks in the (unedited and unfiltered) photos!

Whether you prefer a relaxing, slow paced holiday or an action packed experience, unique to the Maldives, there’s something for you here:

• Epic beach days
• Half and full day trips
• Sunset dolphin tours
• Island hopping
• PADI dive courses
• Big game fishing
• Reef snorkelling – these waters are said to contain two-thirds of the world’s species of reef fish!

Up close with wildlife:

Once I arrived in the Maldives, I was quick to notice “shark snorkelling tours” being promoted and booked myself a spot!

I’ve always been an animal lover and growing up by the beach, I’ve had an interest in sharks from a young age.

The day started with a gentle introduction to sea creatures as our speed boat neared a pod of dolphins swimming close to a near by island. The boat quickly came to a stop and we were told to jump in, I couldn’t believe what happened next: after 2 minutes of snorkelling over coral reefs full of tropical fish, a pod of 6 dolphins (with baby!) passed by directly underneath me! To observe them so naturally and close up was mind blowing to me.

Next up was the a stop at “shark point”! From our seats in the speed boat, we could see hundreds of giant trevally swimming close to the surface and after a few minutes, a large grey nurse shark appeared. Our guide gave us some instructions for these animals and assured us that it was safe to swim here – no one on his boat had ever been bitten. 

I was one of the first in the water and not long after, a nurse shark swam by not bothered by my presence at all. For me, I was a bit scared by his at first!

Soon, we were swimming among half a dozen 3 meter sharks all in close proximity to us. There were so many animals around our boat that it was hard to avoid being “bumped into” by one of these beauties before they continued to swim along unfazed.

The fear quickly diminished as we felt very safe swimming with these animals and loved to be able to see them in their natural environment.

Sting, eagle and manta rays were the last animals on our list to see. Although reassured that it was safe to be in the water with them, my memories of Steve Irwin kept me on land!

Best time to travel:

The dry season from November until April brings calm seas, clear skies with less frequent rains. During these months, few showers and winds are expected and the sea is extremely flat.

Beach days are perfect during this season with the water temperature sitting between 28°C to 30°C and drying off takes no time with the light sea breeze.

To find out where to stay and to book your trip, call Rosie at Mosaic Travel on (03) 5275 4583

The post Holly’s time in the Maldives appeared first on Mosaic Travel.

This is what I recommend to ensure an amazing time in Auckland:

What to do

While Auckland may not be the adventure capital, there are so many fantastic things to be done here. Wildlife, shopping, relaxation, food and wine – this city has it all!

Visit Waiheke Island:

Nicknamed the “Isle of Wine”, take a 40min ferry here for a day trip of exploring stunning wineries and beaches. This was the highlight of my time in New Zealand!

Whale and Dolphin ECO cruise:

With their slogan being “Discover today. Protect for tomorrow” this adventure tour helps to not only showcase whales and dolphins, but focuses heavily on conservation.

You’ll be on board with qualified marine researchers who conduct biological studies during your tour (I got to be the volunteer!) and will share all that they know with you. 

During this excursion I learnt about whales, dolphins and threats against the ocean as well as seeing some amazing animals! University of Auckland and the Department of Conservation’s are both linked tightly to the safari so you can feel good while being on the water.

**I recommend doing this at the beginning of your trip.  The boat offers a guarantee that if the animal sightings on your trip aren’t up to their high standards, a lifetime voucher is given until they’re satisfied you’ve had a great experience!

Viaduct Harbour:

This harbour in the heart of the city is home to some of Aucklands best restaurants and bars: this is the place to be! Watch super yachts go by while having an aperitif, or take a walk along the water and admire boats with some buskers along the way.

For a more in-depth look into Maritime history, New Zealand’s Voyager Maritime Museum can be found within the Viaduct Harbour.

Spot a Kiwi!

Last year, 20 Spotted Kiwis were released into Shakespear Park, Whangaparaoa (45mins North of the CBD). Here in the sanctuary, these endangered animals will offer some genetic mixing to hopefully increase the populations chances of survival.

There’s also a short walk to a stunning lookout point here!

Extreme:

For those who want a taste of the adventure New Zealand is famous for, try the Sky Tower Bungy or Jet Boat, both conveniently located in the CBD.

Getting around

Everything feels close in Auckland but to make getting around even more fun, take a ride on a “Lime E-Scooter”! These things are everywhere, and are a huge hit with locals and tourists… unlike in Aus!

Bike taxis are another good (and green) alternative.

Food and drink

Being surrounded by so much water, the seafood available in New Zealand is incredibly fresh and delicious!

Fresh oysters, white bait, tuatua (NZ’s breed of clams, similar to Pipi’s), green lipped mussels, snapper, salmon…… the list goes on!

Auckland Fish Market:

After more than 90 years of showcasing the city’s freshest seafood, the fish market has been given a multi million dollar facelift and reopened in December last year.

The revamped market houses over 10 different eateries including a bar, cafe and world class fish and chips! With a beautiful courtyard, this is the a great place to sit and enjoy fresh seafood straight from the source.

New Zealand classics:

My first meal here was the classic “mince on toast”. With low expectations, I was quickly impressed and couldn’t wait to enjoy it again!

Other great local tastes include:

• Manuka Honey
• Hāngi
• Organic Lamb

Wine:

Internationally known for its award winning wines, some people travel to NZ for this alone. A large and diverse region, Auckland is home to some of New Zealand’s largest wine companies, as well as a many high-quality, boutique wineries. No matter which direction you travel in, there will be a world class wine produced there:

Waiheke Island: Syrah, Chardonnay, and Cabernet blends.

West Auckland: Chardonnay and Merlot. 

North of Auckland: Cabernet blends, Pinot Gris and Syrah.

Other things to consider

If hiring a car during your time in Auckland, note that petrol prices are a lot higher than in Aus. As an alternative, let us find you a driver for your time there!

To organise a trip to Auckland, 

call Rosie at Mosaic Travel on (03) 5275 4583

The post Exploring Auckland, New Zealand appeared first on Mosaic Travel.