Sunrises vs. sunsets, coffee vs. tea, Wonder Woman vs. Superman...
The world is full of endless comparisons and contrasts. However, few things highlight the polarities of our planet as distinctly as its magnetic poles – the Arctic in the north and Antarctica in the south.
While there are many similarities between these two regions, and they might seem identical at first glance, Earth's icy extremities are vastly different in their physical makeup. They also offer unique travel and tourism experiences. Deciding which destination to visit can be a challenging puzzle, sometimes even deterring potential travelers.
But it doesn't have to be that way.
If you're debating whether your next polar adventure should be to the Arctic or Antarctica, keep reading. The insights you gain might help you choose between a trip that ends in disappointment or one that ignites a lifelong passion for polar exploration.
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The Arctic Hare: Easter Bunny
Although the Arctic hareâs stern expression might make it seem like the least amused member of a serious tribunal, this polar animal is actually one of the most charming creatures on the planet â especially when Easter Sunday comes around.
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What to Expect When Crossing the Drake Passage
Positioned between the southern tail of South America and the Antarctic Peninsula's north-sweeping arm is a lively little waterway known as the Drake Passage.
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Peaks, Fjords, and Auroras: 14 East Greenland Attractions
There really arenât enough superlatives for East Greenland.
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Birds of the North: 29 Arctic Birds and Seabirds
The Arctic is home to some of the worldâs most majestic mammals, both on land and sea. However, the bird life in this region is equally remarkable, showcasing numerous exotic species that are highly prized by bird enthusiasts worldwide.
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10 Terrific Antarctic Bird Facts
Antarctica is a premier destination for birdwatching, boasting around 45 unique species. Describing them all would require an extensive article, so here we will focus on 10 fascinating facts about the birds you can encounter in Antarctica.
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Fierce and Feathered: the Skuas of Antarctica
At first glance, the skuas you encounter in Antarctica may appear to be merely darker-feathered seagulls. But looks can be deceiving.
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5 Misconceptions You Might Have About Greenland
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The Wonderful Weddell Sea: Places, Pics, and Impressions
When we talk about Antarctica, itâs easy to slip into familiar words: amazing, astounding, extraordinary, exceptional. And though most Antarctic locations more than deserve these descriptions, some deserve them more than others.
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Scoresby Sund: the Greatest Greenland Adventure
In a land of expansive mountains, colossal glaciers, and majestic shorelines, few places are as expansive, colossal, or majestic as Scoresby Sund.
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The Most Enchanting Antarctica Cruise Islands
Whether itâs Greenland in the Arctic or Snow Hill Island in Antarctica, the bulk of our polar expeditions take place around, between, and upon islands.
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How Arctic Wildlife Differs from Antarctic
While the north and south poles share certain characteristics, they are also remarkably distinct. Both regions are cold and dry, yet each has its own unique terrain and climate. The Antarctic is particularly harsh and inhospitable, with only two native vascular plant species, whereas the Arctic tundra supports a wider range of fauna due to its relatively warmer temperatures and greater plant diversity. Here are some of the animals you can find in the Arctic compared to the Antarctic.
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Six Seal Species You Might See On Your Greenland Cruise
If you spot a grand old whiskered man lounging in solitary splendor, there's a good chance you're looking at a bearded seal. Your Greenland cruise will take you to bays where these solitary fellows (except during breeding season) hunt for fish in the relatively shallow waters near the shores.
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Under the Greenland Ice Sheet
Anyone who ventures to the right part of the globe can encounter vast amounts of ice, but a Greenland cruise offers something truly unique: ice sculptures hidden beneath the northern ice sheet. Scientists once thought these sculptures were rocky hills buried in ice, similar to the Ghost Mountains in Antarctica. However, it turns out that Mother Nature has crafted one of the most exclusive art exhibits in the world. These sculptures are not visible from the surface, but some scientists have managed to get a sneak peek using radar equipment.
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The Evolving Shipboard Eco-traveler
Feeling stuck in the monotony of everyday life? Looking for a change of scenery? Look no further! Most of us spend our lives on solid ground, despite our bodies being composed of 71.5% water. You'd think we'd have a natural inclination to be in or on the water! So why not try something different? Consider an Arctic holiday adventure on the same waters that famous explorers once navigated!
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Life in the Polar Regions
Polar bears in the Arctic, penguins in Antarctica.
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Antarctica’s Hourglass Dolphin
Though hourglass dolphins are especially rare, theyâre actually not a threatened or endangered species.
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The Classic Polar Cruise: Antarctic Peninsula Facts, Pics, and More
When it comes to experiencing the vast wonders of Antarctica, the Antarctic Peninsula stands out as an unparalleled destination.
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Greenland's History: When Vikings Ruled the Ice Age
A Greenland cruise offers a journey into a rich history filled with intriguing details that captivate polar expedition enthusiasts. Among the most fascinating historical aspects is the fact that Vikings once ruled this land. Anthropologists and climate scientists have long studied Greenland to pinpoint when and why the Vikings left. Recent findings have shed new light on this historical culture.
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Seizing the Season: Spitsbergen’s Late Spring, Early Summer
Most Arctic expedition cruises can be categorized into two main types: those that operate during the autumn and winter, focusing on the northern lights, and those that sail during the high season (mid to late summer), concentrating on a broader range of experiences.
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A visit to the fascinating island of Jan Mayen
After exploring the remote island of Fair Isle, our Atlantic Odyssey voyage once more turned its attentions northwards and left the outer extremities of the UK behind. Our destination was Jan Mayen, a volcanic island situated on the mid-Atlantic ridge just north of 71° (about 550 kilometers north of Iceland and 450 kilometers east of Greenland).