Destination Antarctica - Charlotte’s Unforgettable Journey
Antarctica—remote, icy, and otherworldly—is not your typical vacation destination. But for Charlotte Schoeneman, a 57-year-old adventure traveler from the USA, the allure of the 7th continent was impossible to resist. Determined to experience its wonders, she embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime journey, choosing a path that allowed her to explore this extraordinary landscape on her own terms.
Planning the Adventure
“I’ve always been curious about Antarctica,” Charlotte shares. “Every documentary or film I saw just fueled my fascination. At one point, I even considered taking a job there over winter, but my aversion to cold and darkness made me rethink that idea.”
So, in 2024, Charlotte set her sights on a small research cruise organized by Intrepid Travel. To make the most of the journey, she planned a six-week trip around Argentina, with the Antarctic cruise as the centerpiece. The cruise itself was 11 days long, including four days of on-the-ice excursions and two days each way navigating the infamous Drake Passage. The latter, with its reputation for rough seas, was a particular source of anxiety for Charlotte.
“The Drake Passage terrified me as the trip approached,” she admits. “But I reminded myself that the risks were minimal and that I could always skip activities if they felt too uncomfortable.”
Packing for the trip was no small feat. With Argentina’s varied climate, Charlotte had to prepare for all four seasons while traveling with just a backpack.
“I needed hiking boots for the mountains and tango shoes for Buenos Aires,” she laughs. “I even packed a sleeping bag, which turned out to be a great decision.”
Preparing for the Elements
Charlotte’s route to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world and the gateway to Antarctica, included stops in the mountainous regions of El Chaltén and Torres del Paine. The rigorous hiking trails in these areas helped her build strength and stamina for the icy conditions she would face.
“Ushuaia itself had incredible trails,” Charlotte notes. “By the time I boarded the ship, I felt physically and mentally ready for the challenges ahead.”
Experiencing the Ice
Charlotte’s first steps on the Antarctic continent were filled with relief and gratitude.
“I felt incredibly lucky to be one of the few people who get to see this place before climate change and pollution alter it forever.”
Moments of awe came frequently during the trip.
“Watching penguins and sea lions in their natural habitats was heartwarming, and the ice was absolutely stunning,” Charlotte says.
However, the cold presented challenges, particularly for photography.
“Even with warm gear, my fingers froze. I borrowed hand warmers from fellow travelers, but there were times I just had to put the camera down and enjoy the sights.”
The ice was not only beautiful but also intimidating. “When glaciers calve, the chunks of ice swing and crash unpredictably. It’s mesmerizing but a little nerve-wracking.”
A Changed Perspective
The trip left Charlotte with a deeper appreciation for the delicate balance between travel and environmental conservation.
“The ships, planes, and buses that take us to these pristine places are the same ones contributing to climate change and spreading pathogens,” she reflects.
To minimize her impact, Charlotte prioritizes longer trips that reduce the ratio of air travel to time spent exploring. Her advice to other women dreaming of an Antarctic adventure?
“Follow your dreams. It might seem daunting, but if you prepare well and keep an open mind, the experience is absolutely worth it!”
For Charlotte, the journey to Antarctica was more than just a trip; it was a profound reminder of the planet’s beauty and fragility; a memory she’ll cherish forever.
