How does one go to Antarctica?

Question

I would like to visit Antarctica someday to have my head "up side down"? How do I go there if money wouldn't be a problem???

Answer 1

There are 2 very good ways to go to antarctica.
1. Pay lots of money and take a vacation for a couple of weeks.
2. Work for a company that has operations down there and you can get lots of money back, free room, board, travel, and can be down there for between 5 months and 18 months.

If you travel as a vacation I would suggest using a tour company that is an associate member of IAATO, Internation Association of Antarctic Tour Operators. IAATO is committed to responisbile tourism to Antarctica. Member vessels do not exceed 200 passengers and each operation is carefully monitored. (This off of the www.coolantarctica.com website, but I have heard it in numberouse places before.

As far as a job is concerned, it can be a wonderful experience or it could be horrible.. There are months of the sun never going down and months of it never going up. Depression can set in, alcoholism is closer to a steadfast rule than just a mere problem.
On the good side, if you can afford to drop 10K on a bare minimum tour, then this might be the thing for you. Experience, travel, some excitment, the chance to go to places that have had fewer americans ever than an average superbowl game. I went down for 1 year, and enjoyed it. It was trying some times but wow, it was worth it.. I would go back if my wife (got married aftwards) wanted to try to get a job down there also.

If you are interested in a job, try http://rpsc.raytheon.com/ as they are the main United States hiring group for down on "the Ice".

Raytheon Polar Services Company seeks employees willing to invest their talents, time and energy to ensure the success of the National Science Foundation's U.S. Antarctic Program. In return, we offer a satisfying and rewarding work environment, a well-balanced, comprehensive pay and benefits package, generous recognition and incentive plans, practical training, and innovative quality-of-life programs. (their website)

If you dont think you have the skills for down there, you would be suprised, office workers, clerical, medical, firefighters, general labor, vehicle operators, mechanics, cooks, survival experts, radio and television people occasionally.

I hope this helps.
OAE (old antarctic Explorer) '94-'95

Answer 2

If money isn't a problem, you have your choice of adventure travel programs you could participate in.

http://www.adventures-abroad.com/t/travel-to-antarctica.htm
http://www.antarcticconnection.com/