Envision a land with no visible vegetation and minimal human intrusion. Add vast stretches of impenetrable ice and jagged peaks to the mix. This uncanny place is Antarctica, our highest, driest, windiest, and most environmentally tempermental continental.

In less than an hour we observed four seasons - sun, overcast, rain, sleet, and snow. During the equivalent of a small hurricane (80 mph winds), our ship yawed and pitchpoled through the night. Thankfully, my comrades and I were spared return to our homes to share images and stories. Despite the perils, I am also grateful for the privilege of journeying there.

It is our destiny and responsibility to be proactive stewards and protect this
unique haven. Though low on terrestrial biodiversity, its oceanic bionutrients are the richest on the planet.

I invite you to read my award-winning article, reprinted from The Richmond Times
Dispatch at http://www.gallagherstravels.com
Click Destinations, then Cruises and Journey to the Bottom of the Earth.