I realize that this is a little late coming, but wanted to let you all know that my Antarctica trip has indeed been put on indefinite hold. GAP has actually secured another ship (the M/S Polaris) and they offered to allow me to go on my trip as originally planned, but I opted out. My feeling is that, as much as I want to go to Antarctica, I also want to do it “right.” What I’ve discovered in reviewing other carriers is that there are some which offer even more thrilling options like kayaking off the shore and even overnight camping on the continent. These ideas appeal to me so much more than being stuck on a cruise ship aside from zodiac trips to shore.

Of course the only downside is that I have to wait in part because these operators cost more than GAP. However, I think that if I postpone and plan to book next year for the ‘09-’10 season, then I’ll have plenty of time to save up and pay off the trip. I feel these additional perks are more than worth it.

And so it looks as though 2008 is going to be a more “moderate” travel year, at least for me… I am going to ATL to see the fam in a couple of weeks. A weekend in Boston to see Esther is certainly called for. Then in June I have my backpacking trip in Glacier National Park. August/September brings another trip to Seattle to see Janelle & Sean. December then equals Christmas and a trip back south. Who knows, I may be able to squeeze in another trip to California or Oregon or something a little more exotic… That should keep me busy in my waiting room to Antarctica.