We just got word we are leaving the hotel at 0530 for Antarctica.

Should be on the snow before you wake up.

Love,

Sally

Just a quick update…

We had our briefing on Antarctica today – leave no trace, what to expect, medical emergencies and the like.

There is good meteorological support on the continent and the weather forecast for flying tomorrow looks favorable, so we are likely to get a 6 am call to be in the air by 9. It’s about a 4.5 hour flight. Unfortunately there are no windows for passengers, so we won’t see the continent from the air until we are in the Otter on our way to Vinson Base Camp, which could also be tomorrow.

The last group had some significant storms and the climb took over 10 days, so we really won’t know what the conditions are like until we are in the thick of it.

So far, so good.

If you are inclined to worry, I was pretty amazed by the quality of the logistical support, which includes a doctor, nurse and clinic at Union Glacier where the big plane lands.

The Iluyshian is an interesting looking bird – it’s a converted Russian cargo plane with 4 engines and a payload of 17 tons (think Russian tanks).

If we have a chance to communicate again before we leave, we’ll shoot you another message. Otherwise, check on the Cybercasts.

Love,

Sally

Tomorrow we will get an orientation to Antarctica and will leave whenever the weather is conducive. The plan is to fly to the continent on Wednesday, but we could go as early as tomorrow afternoon, or a few days later.

The group is bonding well, a few of us sharing time in the Santiago airport and others meeting over dinner tonight. Great start on Chilean food so far (but then the bar was set pretty low by the airplane snacks…)

My roommate Tory and I had an orientation and gear check with our guide and our room resembled a high end REI garage sale. Bill and Phillippe from Switzerland are now enjoying the same.

So, all’s well here and we’ll let you know if/when we have an update.

It is very nice to be at the start of an adventure. I look forward to the time away from WiFi!

Cheers,

Sally