The Spiritual Beauty of Antarctica
Our trip to Antarctica on the National Geographic Resolution was more than just a journey—it turned into a spiritual adventure. It felt like the land itself was in a perpetual state of meditation, not to mention the brilliant colors of the icebergs and landscape. I felt like the universe had taken out its paintbrush during the wee early hours to surprise us all when we awoke!
Our Boat - The Resolution
Honestly, I am not a boat person; however, I think I may have changed my mind after going on this adventure with National Geographic. The Resolution was beautiful! Its spacious rooms and unexpected facilities, like a gym and a yoga room, exceeded our expectations. Next to the yoga room was the “sanctuary” filled with hot tea and snacks where one could enjoy a breathtaking view of the Antarctic landscape. Unexpected visits with whales and playful penguins added a delightful touch to these quiet moments.
Mornings of Music and Sometimes Poetry
Each day started with a gentle wake-up call—either Dan's ukulele or a morning poem through the intercom, unless, of course, a whale was swimming by, which then turned into an excited announcement that encouraged all of us to run out to the decks to see these amazing creatures. Each morning the schedule was announced, and depending on one’s group (we were the humpbacks), we would go out into the zodiacs, listen to an interesting presentation, cruise on the boat finding whales and seals, take a cold plunge (yes, some did that...not me, however), walk on icebergs or engage in some other exciting adventure.
Exceptional Hospitality
The warm smiles and kindness of the staff became a daily highlight. Each day and night, we were treated to diverse and delicious meals. The 6 PM happy hour brought together experts of various kinds—glaciologists, penguin specialists, and many more—sharing their knowledge of the magic of Antarctica. The speakers were the kind of people you wanted to sit down with, have a glass of wine, and listen to them talk about their adventures for hours.
Penguins, Whales, Seals, Glaciers and More
The wildlife encounters were beyond anything I could have imagined. From the endearing penguins making their own intricate "highways" to the majestic whales gracefully swimming and breaching in the freezing waters and the sleepy seals basking in the sunny surroundings—every moment felt like a party with the universe.
One highlight was witnessing the adorable penguin families during the birthing season. The little chicks, just making their entrance into the world, were a heartwarming sight. What struck me most was the incredible teamwork among penguin parents. They take turns incubating their eggs and braving the cold waters to fetch food for their little ones. It's a dance of life that unfolds with such natural grace, reminding me of the delicate balance that exists in this untouched corner of our planet.
A Fond Farewell
A delightful surprise occurred on the final night when the staff transformed into entertainment magicians. Singing, dancing, and playing instruments, they displayed talents beyond their designated roles. The overwhelming appreciation and love for them were truly beyond words.
A Journey Beyond the Physical
Antarctica whispered stories of resilience, harmony, and interconnectedness. The spiritual energy of the landscapes, combined with the unexpected magic of the crew, left an everlasting impression on my soul. Antarctica, With its timeless beauty, Antarctica is a sanctuary, reminding us of our profound connection with the Earth. In the dance of life, Antarctica stood as a testament to the enduring beauty of an untouched world.
