Antarctica experts Jarryd and Alesha share their Antarctica safety tips for travelers, from harsh weather to staying safe (and upright) on the ice. Here’s what you need to know before you travel to Antarctica.

In recent years Antarctica has transformed from a distant, icy wilderness that’s nearly impossible to visit to one of the most sought-after destinations on the planet.

We’ve been lucky enough to visit many times, leading tours, creating travel content, and now working as expedition photography guides on ships in this fascinating environment.

While visiting the world’s most remote destination can be challenging, the answer to “Is it safe to travel to Antarctica?” is yes – it’s very safe if you’re prepared and join a reputable tour operator.

Let’s dive into some key Antarctica safety tips to help you have an unforgettable, safe adventure at the bottom of the world.

Choosing the right operator

When it comes to exploring Antarctica, who you go with matters. Are Antarctica cruises safe? Generally, yes. If you choose the right operator, you won’t really have to worry about anything.

Here are our expert tips on selecting a trustworthy operator:

• Check for IAATO Membership: Operators that are part of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) follow strict environmental and safety guidelines. This is a non-negotiable for responsible travel to Antarctica.
• Look for expertise: Choose an operator with many years of experience running expeditions in Antarctica. Read reviews, ask other travelers, and do your own research. Not all companies are created equal, and we only personally recommend about 10 operators.
• Smaller ships are better: Regulations state that no more than 200 people can disembark a ship in Antarctica at any one time, so if you are on a larger ship than that, groups are split up resulting in less time out exploring. More than 500 people onboard and nobody is allowed to get off the ship at all. That’s why it’s very important to select a ship that holds 200 people maximum.

Staying safe in rough seas

The Drake Passage – the notorious stretch of water between South America and Antarctica – is famous for its rough seas. It can be very extreme, but for the most part it’s moderate and sometimes even completely calm. Here’s how to stay safe (and comfortable) during the journey:

• Pack seasickness medication: The rough seas in Antarctica can catch even seasoned sailors off-guard. Bring over-the-counter seasickness tablets or patches and take them before you disembark in Ushuaia, not when you already feel sick. Trust us, take them even if you think you’ll be fine.
• Choose a modern vessel: Larger ships tend to handle rough seas better (but remember the 200-passenger limit). If you’re prone to seasickness, read reviews on the size and stability of the ship. Many new vessels have stabilisers as well.
• Secure loose items: Rough waters can cause things, and people, to slide and tip over quickly and unexpectedly. Secure any loose items in your cabin and avoid moving around too much during choppy weather. Keep one hand for the ship at all times! And whatever you do, don’t put your hand on door jambs or the hinged area of an open door – you don’t want a heavy door to slam down on your fingers when the ship lurches. Your cabin may be equipped with latches that prevent doors from swinging open or shut. Use them.

Cruise ship safety and evacuation

Modern cruise ships travelling to Antarctica are equipped with high-tech safety measures, but you still need to follow the rules.

• Attend safety briefings: There will be a mandatory safety briefing at the beginning of your cruise. This will cover everything from life jacket locations to evacuation procedures.
• Know your muster station: Make sure you know where your designated muster station is in case of an emergency. This is where you’ll gather if there’s a need to evacuate the ship. Very unlikely, but it has happened before.
• Have travel insurance: Consider buying travel insurance that will cover medical emergencies and evacuation.

What to pack: clothing and gear essentials

In the harsh Antarctic environment, having the right gear is crucial. Here’s what you should pack:

• Layer up: Antarctica’s weather changes quickly – we’ve seen it go from being a warm, clear day to white-out blizzard conditions in less than 15 minutes. A layering system is key, which means using base layers for warmth, mid-layers for insulation, and a waterproof outer layer to keep out wind and moisture. If you start to overheat, you can peel layers off, and if you start to feel cool you can put them back on. We often wear warmer layers on the zodiacs, then strip down for landings.
• Waterproof everything: Waterproof pants, jackets, and gloves are non-negotiable. You’ll be dealing with snow, sea spray, and sometimes rain. Most companies will provide waterproof jackets.
• Polarised sunglasses and sunscreen: The sun’s reflection off the ice can be intense, so pack good-quality sunglasses and high-SPF sunblock. Ski goggles can be great as well.
• Rubber boots: Your operator will often provide these (we recommend choosing an operator that does), but if not, bring insulated rubber boots for Zodiac landings.

Zodiac safety

Zodiacs are inflatable motorized boats used for getting off the ship and exploring Antarctica up close. A Zodiac cruise is our favorite activity down there. Here’s how to stay safe while boarding and riding these small tenders:

• Listen to your guide: Your guide will instruct you on the safest way to board and disembark the Zodiac. Follow their advice carefully and always keep both hands free when getting in and out of the vessel.
• Wear a life jacket: Always wear the life jacket provided when riding in Zodiacs. You won’t be allowed into a tender without one on.
• Keep low: When moving in and out of the Zodiac, keep your center of gravity low and hold onto the rope or handles to avoid tipping. Always ask the driver before standing to ensure it’s safe to do so.

Kayak safety

Kayaking in Antarctica is an incredible experience, but it requires some extra safety considerations:

• Be honest about your experience: Most tour operators will ask about your previous sea kayaking experience before booking this optional activity. Be truthful about it –there’s nothing worse than one person in the group having no idea what they’re doing, which affects everybody else’s time.
• Dress for immersion: In case you fall in, you need to stay warm. Your tour operator will give you a full dry suit to wear, but you need warm layers underneath. Put your camera/phone in a drybag if you plan on bringing it out with you.

Staying safe while on land

Antarctica’s landscapes are awe-inspiring but can be hazardous. Whether you’re walking among penguins or visiting research stations, keep these tips in mind:

• Watch your step: The terrain can be icy, rocky, and very uneven. Walk carefully to avoid slips and falls. Ask your operator if they supply walking poles or bring your own if concerned.
• Respect wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from wildlife (five meters for penguins, more for seals). The wildlife is unpredictable, and you want to avoid causing any stress to the animals. Plus, seals can be very dangerous, so stay well clear and listen to the expedition team’s instructions.
• Stick to marked paths: Follow the paths outlined by your guides to avoid disturbing fragile environments, getting lost or falling into a crevasse.

Protecting camera equipment and gear

Antarctica is a photographer’s paradise, but the cold and wet conditions can be tough on your gear. Here’s how to protect your camera equipment:

• Use dry bags: Keep your camera in a dry bag when not in use, especially on Zodiacs or in snowy conditions.
• Bring spare batteries: Cold weather drains battery life quickly. Bring plenty of spares and store them close to your body to keep them warm.
• Avoid lens fogging: When transitioning between cold outdoor air and warm indoor spaces, let your camera adjust gradually to avoid condensation forming on the lens or inside the body.

Keep these Antarctica travel tips in mind, and you’ll be ready to safely enjoy one of the most remarkable places on the planet.

Lay the foundation for the adventure of a lifetime with these insider tips.

In less than two decades, the number of foreign travelers arriving in India has more than tripled (from 2.65 million in 2000 to a whopping 8.8 million in 2016) — and the tide of visitors eager to experience the country’s unforgettable culture continues to swell. If you’re one of them, you’re in for an incomparable experience — and you’ve got some serious planning to do. Keep these considerations in mind as you prepare for your trip.

1: Get an E-Visa

Visitors from countries other than Nepal and Bhutan are required to apply for (and obtain) a tourist visa before their arrival in India. Until a few years ago, that meant Americans needed to visit a local consulate; these days, you can apply electronically via the government’s e-Visa web portal. Applicants are instructed to complete the process at least four days prior to travel, but since that process (which rings in at $100 per traveler) can take up to two weeks, it’s advisable to get it out of the way well before you depart. Make sure that your passport has two blank pages for officials’ stamps, and that it will be valid for at least six months (that is, the maximum stay the visa will grant you).

2: Talk to Your Doctor

The CDC recommends verifying that you’re up to date on routine shots and supplementing that immunity with “travel vaccines” for hepatitis A and typhoid, both of which can be contracted through contaminated food and water in India; depending on the areas you’ll be visiting, your health care provider might recommend additional vaccines. They can also offer a personalized “healthy travel packing list,” which could include anything from prescription antibiotics to over-the-counter antacids and diarrhea medications.

3: Drink Bottled Water

Reaching for tap or well water — or ice that’s been made from it, or produce that’s been rinsed with it — is a one-way ticket to what seasoned travelers call “Delhi belly” (that is, severe gastrointestinal distress and, if you’re especially unlucky, a variety of diseases). Health professionals also recommend sticking to bottled or canned drinks, hot coffee or tea, and pasteurized milk.

4: Arrive With Cash

Though many modern vendors now accept digital payment via credit or debit card (with foreign transaction fees), cash remains king in India, and you’ll need it for visits to remote areas, haggling in markets and arranging some forms of transportation. While ATMs are plentiful, they are notorious both for triggering blocks on travelers’ cards and for experiencing mysterious technical issues. Avoid an unplanned tour of your destination city’s local banks by withdrawing a bit of cash at the airport — and keeping your eyes peeled for soiled or damaged notes given as change, as most people will refuse to accept them.

5: Prepare for Pollution

In the winter months — also known as “smog season” — a toxic mix of auto exhaust, dust, industrial emissions, and agricultural smoke blankets northern India, and particulate pollutant levels rise to more than 30 times what the World Health Organization (WHO) deems healthy. Air quality is a significant concern throughout the year, and Indian cities claimed 11 of the 12 top spots on WHO’s recent report on the most polluted cities in the world. Experts recommend avoiding exertion outdoors in the morning and evening, when toxicity in the air tends to spike, and purchasing a proper anti-pollution mask (as flimsy paper surgical masks offer little or no protection).

6: Take Your Time

Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur are known as India’s “Golden Triangle,” and they have well-deserved reputations as spectacular destinations. While they are often mentioned in the same breath, it’s important to consider just how far apart they are: each leg of that celebrated triangle is more than 200 kilometers in length. It’s tempting to barrel across the subcontinent with an eye on your bucket list, but overambitious travel can take a swift and dramatic toll on your energy levels. Build flexibility into your schedule as you plot your course, and give yourself ample opportunity to experience each stop on your itinerary.

7: Factor Traffic Into Your Plans

India’s transport system struggles to keep pace with its explosive growth, and in urban hubs like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore and Kolkata — as in cities around the world where demand leaps ahead of infrastructure — gridlock is a fact of life. If you’ve made a firm commitment to be at a specific place at a specific hour, consider your projected travel time…and then consider doubling or tripling it, just in case.

8: Pack Light

At the Taj Mahal, visitors are permitted to carry a bottle of water, a camera, a mobile phone…and that’s about it. Hotels in major cities require guests and their possessions to pass through metal detectors and x-ray scanners. The checked-bag weight allowance for domestic airlines, in turn, is a mere 15 kilograms (as opposed to around 23 kilograms in many Western countries). Bottom line: It’s well worth your time to consolidate your belongings both before you depart for India and as you plan your activities.

9: Expect Attention

Foreigners are a common sight for Indians who hail from urban areas. For Indians from other parts of the country (such as those you’ll encounter as fellow tourists when you visit monuments), they are exotic and extremely popular selfie subjects. While many of the “selfie requests” you’ll field in India are social-media-minded rather than, say, a pretense for pickpocketing, they can quickly become overwhelming; know that if you agree to pose for one photo, the odds are good that you’ll be asked to pose for many, many more.

10: Download WhatsApp

More than 200 million WhatsApp users are active each month in India; it’s far and away the nation’s messenging service of choice. Whether or not you’ve opted for an international mobile phone plan, the free-to-download, internet-based app can be indispensable for everything from making dinner reservations to arranging a meeting point with a guide.

A car trip can be a memorable vacation while pregnant, especially if flying is out of the question, but there are some precautions to take before you hit the road.

Everyone loves a good road trip. And if you’re pregnant, a babymoon by car may be exactly what’s needed before you’re elbows-deep in dirty diapers. While it’s generally safe to fly while expecting, some airlines have a cutoff of 36 weeks (and many even earlier), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Pregnant people who do fly should check with their doctors first, but they can make travel safer with simple steps like holding onto seatbacks when walking during turbulence and wearing compression socks to prevent deep vein thrombosis.

The great news is that car travel is safe for most pregnant people. If you have complications, you may need to stick closer to home but unless you’re on bedrest or have other doctor-imposed limitations, you should be able to hit the road. Ask your health care provider when you should stop long road trips, but in most cases, it’s safe until close to your due date.

To ensure the only bump on the road is your belly, here are 11 tips pregnant travelers should know before setting off on a long drive.

1. Talk To Your Health Care Provider

No matter the mode of travel, pregnant people should always start by contacting their health care provider, said Kecia Gaither, MD, maternal-fetal medicine specialist affiliated with NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln in the Bronx, New York. “Certain medical conditions may preclude any degree of travel, be it by air or land,” says Dr. Gaither. “Those conditions may include placenta previa, prior preterm labor, or clotting disorders.”

Placenta previa, for example, happens when the placenta completely or partially covers the cervix. It can cause bleeding during pregnancy, as well as serious complications—like hemorrhage or preterm birth—that would be difficult to navigate in an unfamiliar location.

Additionally, traveling is a risk factor for blood clots, according to the CDC—and pregnant people already have a heightened chance of developing them. Certain conditions and disorders may increase the risk of blood clots too much for long road trips.

2. Plan for Your Second Trimester

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) says the ideal time to travel is during the second trimester, between 14 and 28 weeks. “During these weeks, your energy has returned, morning sickness is improved or gone, and you are still able to get around easily,” recommends the organization. “After 28 weeks, it may be harder to move around or sit for a long time.”

Not only is the middle of the pregnancy when pregnant people will likely feel the best, but it also carries a lower risk of any complications.

3. Prepare for the Pregnancy Road Trip

Advanced planning can make any road trip easier. This includes thoughtful packing like easy-to-change clothing if you get too hot or too cold and taking healthy foods, snacks, and drinks. Also, make sure your route is accurate to avoid delays and check for safe places to stop.

4. Drink Enough Water

There’s a link between dehydration and uterine contractions, so keeping on top of water intake is crucial, says Dr. Gaither. Have a sufficient supply of water readily available in the car and make sure to drink even more if you’ve been sweating or exercising. Pregnant people should drink eight to 12 cups (or 64 to 96 ounces) of water each day, according to ACOG. This ensures healthy digestion, amniotic fluid formation, and nutrient circulation.

5. Bring Extra Medications or Supplements

Taking the proper medications and supplements while pregnant is imperative, and it’s even more important on a road trip. Dr. Gaither says pregnant travelers will want to double-check that they’ve packed any medications and vitamins they need.

It’s also important to bring extra, in case they’re on the road longer than originally anticipated. Include over-the-counter medicines approved by your health care provider, so you’ll have them if you need them. And, don’t forget to pack your prenatal vitamin!

6. Always Wear a Seat Belt

Wearing a seat belt in a car is one of the most important car safety tips, especially when you’re pregnant. The myth that a seat belt could harm the fetus is pure fiction, but there’s a proper way to wear one if you’re pregnant, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Pregnant people should wear the shoulder belt away from their neck and across their chest. The lap belt should be secured below the belly so it fits snugly. Pregnant people should also keep as much distance as possible between their belly and the steering wheel, while still ensuring they can reach the wheel and pedals. Additionally, the NHTSA recommends pregnant people don’t disable the airbags.

7. Get Out and Stretch Often

Dr. Gaither says pregnant travelers should stop “at least every two hours” and get out of the car, stretch, and walk around. This increases blood flow to the lower body which helps prevent complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the legs. These blood clots usually dissolve on their own. However, in rare cases, they can break off, travel to the lungs, and block blood flow. This potentially life-threatening condition is called a pulmonary embolism.

While the risk for DVT is low, it does increase with pregnancy. The CDC recommends knowing the signs of DVT, which include swelling and/or redness in the leg (or arm), unexplained pain or tenderness, and skin that feels warm when touched. Signs of a pulmonary embolism include difficulty breathing, fast or irregular heartbeat, and chest pain or discomfort.

8. Dress Comfortably

Being comfortable during pregnancy is key, and that’s especially true during a road trip. Luckily, a few essentials can make the ride more relaxing—and safer. Non-medical compression socks or support hosiery may be a good idea to help support blood flow.

Other helpful travel accessories include a lumbar pillow, comfortable shoes, and a good water bottle (because hydration is key to a healthy pregnancy). A cooler, sunglasses, and sunscreen also may be helpful. And, avoid wearing too-tight clothing and shoes.

9. Avoid Remote Locations

Nothing is stopping most pregnant people from traveling, but it’s always smart to be mindful of where you’re going. If possible, maintain a steady speed (instead of speeding up and slowing down) and avoid winding, hilly, bumpy roads, and frequent lane changes. Also, don’t travel to extremely remote areas where medical care may be difficult to find in case of an emergency.

10. Have an Emergency Plan in Place

Pregnant travelers will want to have a plan in case any unexpected health concerns pop up, as they can happen quickly during pregnancy. If you don’t have access to an electronic health record, take a copy of your medical record with you. If any problems do arise during a road trip, Dr. Gaither recommends pregnant people contact their health care provider and the nearest hospital for advice, evaluation, and possible treatment.

11. Relax and Have Fun

There are lots of things to take into consideration when planning a road trip while pregnant, but always remember to have fun! Advanced planning and a comfortable wardrobe will help make the trip easier. Plan a trip you’re excited about and indulge in a little pre-baby R&R.

If you are planning a tropical getaway with your girlfriends, let the winds of Mauritius sway you with a budget far less than anticipated

More often than not, an all-girls’ trip breaks away from all budget restraints for one simple reason: women have to be particular about a lot of things. Therefore, we opt for places that are travel friendly and provide safe accommodations, which always come at a cost higher than expected. But what if I tell you, there’s a picture perfect east African island waiting for you – that is not just breathtakingly beautiful, but safe, clean, hygienic, pocket-friendly and an adventure-filled terrain?

Mauritius, just a seven-hour flight away from India, is an African paradise. Adjacent to Madagascar and the Seychelles, Mauritius is an island with a historical undertone too important to miss. A volcanic island populated by immigrants, Mauritius boasts a confluence of culture, religion and tradition, and at the same time, exhibits a surreally strong bond between locals and tourists. With the sapphire blue ocean and the sky blending at the horizon and white sands sparkling at your feet, Mauritius is a tropical paradise bound to allure any mortal. So, if you are planning a getaway with your girlfriends or sisters, let the winds of Mauritius sway you with a budget far less than anticipated.

Visa on arrival

First things first, Mauritius has a visa-on-arrival system, which easily saves a lot of money and the extra hassle for you and the girls. If you’ve got the return ticket and proof of accommodation, Mauritius will grant you a 60-day visa on arrival.

Best time to visit

Keep in mind that located in the southern hemisphere, seasons and temperature patterns in Mauritius are opposite to ours. Hence, Christmas is celebrated in peak summer, whereas July and August experience the coolest weather conditions. Mauritius is also cheaper during its pleasant winter season.

Getting there

For the cheapest flight option, select a price-drop option on your desired flight booking website so that you are notified whenever there’s a cheap flight available to Mauritius. If you book 3-4 months prior, you might also get a return flight in less than 30k. Air Mauritius is a good option if you want direct flights, which operates through Air India in the country.

Money matters

1 Mauritian Rupee (MUR) is equivalent to 1.97 (almost 2) INR. The best and most hassle-free place to get your currency exchanged is at the Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport after you land. In India, banks charge more, so get hold of an agency that might sort you out. You can also carry your Forex card with a decent balance, since International credit and debit cards charge a lot of hidden money that we only get to see once we get back home.

Commuting in Mauritius

Mauritius is a tiny island with majestic views at every corner. Taxis stationed at every hotel provide for a good commute option, although the cheapest option is to hire Minibus excursions, which is a great way to get around as tourists. But rely on public transport. You can find buses to the north and south conveniently from Curepipe, the central point. Buses going to the West coast (Flic en Flac, Chamarel, etc.) can be taken from Quatre Bornes.

Where to stay

There is no dearth of good stay options in Mauritius. Look for homestays and service apartments with kitchen and basic amenities. For a group of women, these apartments and homestays come even cheaper than hostels. Most of these places offer complimentary water and have a stocked fridge. All you need to do is just cook. Instant noodles is a great way to survive on a budget vacation, and so is good old-fashioned bread-butter. If booked in advance, Airbnb will get you good sea-facing villas or apartments at 2-5k INR per day, which is a steal! But also be open to trying the local Creole cuisine, as food is always an integral part of travel. For one lavish dinner, you could opt for Palm Court at Lux* Grand Gaube. The ocean-view dinner table with soft breeze and delectable food is something worth mentioning.

Primarily divided into five regions, the island of Mauritius has much to offer at every location. Utilise the best of the island and divide your stay accordingly. To stay, pick the west and north, for these will get you ocean views unmatched by any other destination in the world.

What to do

Mauritius is a heaven for any adrenaline junkie. From sea adventure to quad-biking, zip-lining, submarine diving, scuba and snorkeling – there is no stop to how your girlfriends and you can have unlimited fun.

Other than these, there is Casela World of Adventure Nature Park for your typical African safari. There’s La Vallée de Couleurs, a scenic park known for its landscape with 23 coloured earth. Big on sugarcane plantation, Mauritius has some of the best rum distilleries in the world. Rhumerie de Chamarel is one such place that will take you around the factory, explaining the interesting distilling process and ending with a tasting of some over 15 kinds of rum! Tickets to most of these can be booked online prior to your visit. A decent 25,000 INR will cover your expenses for these activities.

Just plan ahead, and get the best of Mauritius on a budget.