Which polar expedition cruises are truly all-inclusive? Compare parkas, boots, kayaking, tips and charter flights on six lines, plus what still costs extra.
Traveling with a guide often gets a bad rap. Many independent travelers picture rigid, crowded, expensive bus tours where you follow the group and never get a minute to yourself. I’ve traveled both ways, with guides and on my own. In May 2026 I sailed to Svalbard solo with Quark Expeditions, with an expedition team…
This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. I only link to gear I packed and used myself. Here’s everything I brought on my May 2026 expedition to Svalbard, all laid out before I packed it. Nearly all of it earned its spot….
“I want to go somewhere icy” is one of my favorite things to hear. It’s also where a lot of people get stuck, because the three big polar regions feel nothing alike once you’re there. Here’s how I help travelers choose. Antarctica: the bucket-list trip When: November to March, the southern summer. Getting there: Most…
