I do not believe it is an overstatement to describe a visit to a polar region as a trip of a lifetime. And I believe that if you visit one end of the earth you will feel an inexorable pull to visit the other. Well, that is what I, a couple of my colleagues, and many of our clients have discovered over the last few years, and this has led to the development of our dedicated team of Polar cruising specialists.
The easiest way to visit a polar region is on a cruise, in our summer time to the Arctic and in our winter time to Antarctica, but these cruises are unlike any other. They are journeys of generally between 7 and 21 days on boats specially designed for navigating these waters.
If you are unsure which to visit first, then I would say where better to start than with a simple question: polar bears or penguins?
Newfoundland feels like the end of the world. For many, the name conjures an image of a barren bulk of rock lurking in the fog somewhere in the North Atlantic. Glimpsed from an aircraft, its stark outline is often surrounded by specks of ice.
Nothing draws people together like food, whether it’s the preparation or sitting down to taste local delicacies, barriers are broken down and conversation flows. We asked our specialists to choose some of their favourite culinary experiences from around the world.
Canada still remains one of the most scarcely populated countries in the world, covering a staggering 9,984,670 square kilometres (second only to Russia) but with just over 33 million people. Although small, the population has been formed from a base of indigenous people and then supplemented with waves of immigrants, mainly from the shores of Europe.
Peter Stanley-Jones, Regional Manager for Canada, takes a look at the history that conspired to create what is now a modern, passionately patriotic country and a hugely fulfilling destination for the traveller.
The dramatic Alaskan coastline is rich with wildlife and natural beauty; Audley’s Elizabeth Beeson explores the coast and describes the various types of cruise ships available on this wonderful journey.
in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, Alaska & The Arctic, 2009 Spring, North & Central Asia, Southeast Asia, Festivals & Events, South America, Africa, Indian Subcontinent and Activities & Adventures.
Audley’s specialists pick out some of their favourite music, dance and drama performances from around the world.
Polar Bears are one of the world’s iconic wildlife sights and a must see for any visitor to Canada and the Arctic. James Butler, Audley’s Canada & Alaska Manager, explains how and where to see these wonderful animals.
Fall is a magical time to visit Canada, and Ontario is no exception. Fiona Pearce’s recent visit started with the iconic Niagara Falls and she then moved on to explore lesser-known parks, wildlife and culture.
Immerse yourself in rural life on a working farm or ranch. From tea plantations in Africa to the fertile floodplains of Brazil’s greatest wetlands, friendly family-run properties introduce frontier life as it interacts with nature. Our specialists reveal their favourites.
Just 130 years ago the windswept peaks and glimmering lakes of Canada’s Rocky Mountains were only experienced by aboriginal communities and itinerant trappers. In 1885 the Canadian Pacific Railway opened up this wonderful wilderness to a wider world and Canada’s greatest secret was out. Jane Robinson says that some highlights just can’t be missed but also suggests other, less visited attractions.
There are some immensely clear and gloriously spectacular night skies across the world, many that must be seen to be believed. Here, our specialists choose their favourites.
The word ‘Arctic’ conjures up images of polar bears prowling the ice floes, Inuit hunting in sealskin kayaks, of whales and
whale hunting, the Aurora Borealis, and of intrepid explorers of history attempting to reach the North Pole or find a route
from the Atlantic to Pacific Oceans through the Northwest Passage. In terms of what a visit to the Arctic means to an Audley
traveller it is small-ship expedition cruising within the Arctic Circle (at 66°32’ and beyond), within the Arctic Ocean.
Untamed expanses, snow-capped mountains, craggy glaciers and roaming wildlife. Aaron Cork finds America’s far north lives up to all his dreams.
The Canadians are proud of their country and have been something of pioneers in responsible travel. Aaron Cork visits Gaspésie Peninsula, a fine example of this ethos.
Peter Stanley-Jones tries heli-hiking in Canada’s beautiful Columbia mountains.
The march to globalisation of certain sports may seem unstoppable, but more localised pursuits are still extremely popular in certain corners of the globe. Our specialists reveal some of their favourites.
Jane Robinson finds her inner cow girl at Canada’s Calgary stampede.
Whether you’re a serious wine buff, teetotal, or simply enjoy the odd tipple, winegrowing regions are always fascinating places to visit.
Olly Clayfield spends a week travelling the Yukon River as one of the pioneers of the recently launched Great River Journey.
James Butler reveals some of the unique wildlife encounters to be had in Canada, Alaska and the Arctic.
