I’m going on a book tour! My next book, How to Travel the World on $75 a Day, is coming out on March 25th and I’m going on a book tour to talk about it and the current state of travel!
This is my first book tour in six years and I’m very excited to get out there and talk about how travel has changed as well as hang out with readers of this site!
The last edition of my book came out in 2017 and, since then, a lot has changed. COVID forever changed the travel industry. A lot of companies/hotels/hostels closed during the pandemic while old methods of saving money became obsolete and new methods came into being.
And, since 2017, prices have gone up. A lot. Not only because of natural inflation but because of the post-COVID inflation boom. (As you’ve probably noticed, it’s not as cheap to travel as it was back in 2017!)
Since travel has changed so much, I wanted the new book to reflect the current conditions we travelers face when it comes to planning a trip, saving money, and navigating regions around the world. The book is focused on long-term travelers, but it’s also just for anyone who just wants to save money when they travel. The tips and tricks can be applied to any trip of any length.
So, come meet me on book tour and learn how to travel smarter for less this year!
Here are my tour dates and how to sign up:
March 26th: New York City – The Strand, 7pm. Sign up here!
April 1st: Austin – Central Machine Works, 6:30pm. (Note: This will just be a mixer rather than a formal book talk but I’ll have copies of the book!) Sign up here!
April 3rd: San Diego – Warwick’s, 7:30pm. Sign up here!
April 8th: San Francisco – Book Passage, 5:30pm. Sign up here!
April 13th: Los Angeles – The Village Well, 5pm. Sign-up here!
Note: I’m working on adding a few more locations to the tour! I’ll add new destinations as they come. If you’re interested in a Seattle event, RSVP here. I’m trying to have one on April 14th.
You’ll be able to get the book at any tour stop but, if I’m not coming to your city and you still want the book, you can order the books from these fine establishments:
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If you live in any of the cities above, I hope you’ll make out out to an event! And, if you’re not in any of those cities, please consider pre-ordering a copy. Pre-orders determine the print run of the book and how many copies local bookstores buy. The stronger the pre-sale orders, the more likely they are to stock the book so please order the book in advance!
I’m really excited about this new edition of the book and I can’t wait to talk about it with you!
Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.
Need a Rental Car? Discover Cars is a budget-friendly international car rental website. No matter where you’re headed, they’ll be able to find the best — and cheapest — rental for your trip!
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.
Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.
Under a clear, starry sky on Queensland’s Gold Coast, the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary transforms each night into a captivating spectacle known as Astra Lumina.
This spellbinding nighttime attraction is the newest activity on the Gold Coast and offers visitors a unique experience where nature, storytelling, and technology combine seamlessly, providing an immersive journey unlike any other in the Southern Hemisphere.
Having spent a lot of time on the Gold Coast over the years, including a fantastic week-long itinerary a few years ago, we always look forward to an escape to Australia’s most popular holiday destination.
With the news that this brand new permanent art exhibit had just opened up, we were beyond excited to check out Astra Lumina on our most recent trip.
Astra Lumina – Gold Coast’s Immersive Light and Art Exhibit
Our visit to Astra Lumina Gold Coast began as the sun dipped below the horizon, just after 6:00 PM on a Thursday evening.
We walked into the sanctuary as twilight settled over the trees, and despite the weather presenting us with light rain, we decided to carry on – and we’re glad we did.
The forest took on a different energy in the wet. Reflections from the installations bounced off the wet leaves and pathways, and the mist gave the whole trail a cinematic atmosphere.
We rented one of the illuminated umbrellas available at the entrance, which was both practical and surprisingly useful for photography.
The glow helped light up the path and added visibility without interfering with the installations.
The walk itself is around 1.5 kilometres long, and while most people complete it in about an hour, we spent the full 3 hours in the park enjoying the experience and capturing images.
It’s a well-designed trail, suitable for most ages and fitness levels. Some sections have slight slopes and gravel, but nothing too challenging.
We saw families with prams and older visitors comfortably making their way through.
Staggered entry times kept the crowd spread out. We rarely encountered more than one or two other groups at any point, which meant we could move freely and spend more time in the zones we found most interesting.
By the time we exited the sanctuary, right as it was closing at 9pm, we were already dreaming of when we could come back again.
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, from 17:30 onwards.
Duration: The experience is a self-paced 1.5-kilometre trail, typically taking between 60 to 90 minutes to complete.
Ticket Prices: Tickets start at $30 for kids, $35 for students and concession card holders and $45 for adults. Packages and bundle tickets are available. Check the official site for more information.
Accessibility: The trail includes sloped and uneven surfaces, making it unsuitable for wheelchairs. Guests with specific accessibility needs should contact the sanctuary in advance for assistance.
Weather Policy: Astra Lumina operates in light rain; however, sessions may be canceled in severe weather conditions. Guests will be notified via email or SMS in case of cancellations.
Parking: Paid parking is available at the sanctuary, with fees supporting the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital. Free street parking is also available nearby.
Public Transport: The sanctuary is accessible via Translink bus services, with stops directly in front of the entrance.
Photography: Photography is encouraged; however, flash photography, tripods, and monopods are not allowed to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all guests.
Behind Astra Lumina
Created by the internationally renowned multimedia design studio, Moment Factory, Astra Lumina is part of a larger series of Lumina night walk experiences developed around the world.
This installation is part of Moment Factory’s Lumina Night Walk series, which includes over 25 experiences worldwide, such as Foresta Lumina in Canada, Island Lumina in Japan, and Rainforest Lumina in Singapore.
What sets the Gold Coast’s Astra Lumina apart is its distinction as the first permanent Lumina installation in the Southern Hemisphere, uniquely integrating the natural environment of Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary with cutting-edge technology to create a one-of-a-kind nocturnal attraction.
Here at Currumbin, Astra Lumina leverages advanced lighting techniques, dynamic projections, and meticulously crafted soundscapes to create an immersive environment.
Moment Factory is celebrated globally for their compelling multimedia projects, which include high-profile collaborations with artists and entities such as Billie Eilish, Madonna, and Disney.
At Astra Lumina, Moment Factory has expertly merged cutting-edge technology with natural elements, enhancing the sanctuary’s lush forest environment without overpowering it.
Visitors experience an intriguing balance of innovation and nature that respects and highlights the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Stepping onto the Astra Lumina trail felt immediately like entering a different world.
Soft, ambient lighting guided the path, subtly highlighting the surrounding forest without disturbing the natural tranquility of the sanctuary.
The sounds of nocturnal wildlife occasionally added a delightful layer to the carefully crafted audio backdrop, creating a sense of harmony between technology and nature.
The trail is broken into nine themed zones, each telling part of a larger story about stars falling to Earth and returning to the sky.
The path is marked by subtle lighting and signage, guiding you forward at your own pace.
The Astral Archway acts as a glowing introduction, where a series of illuminated arches mark the beginning of your journey.
The Falling Stars zone uses gentle lighting effects to simulate stars drifting down through the trees, while the Stardust Rays section is filled with columns of light that rise and fall around you like beams of cosmic energy.
These are just a few highlights, but each zone is designed to offer a slightly different experience in terms of movement, audio, and perspective, keeping the walk interesting from start to finish.
The thoughtful integration of sound was impressive throughout. Every zone had its unique audio atmosphere, meticulously synchronised to visual elements, significantly enhancing the immersive experience.
Birds, wind, and subtle, musical undertones were perfectly balanced, heightening the emotional impact and engaging all my senses fully.
The attention to detail in each segment kept us deeply connected to the journey, making it feel personal and profound.
As the trail came to an end we found ourselves wishing to linger longer, captivated by the innovative blend of technology, storytelling, and nature.
Astra Lumina provides a rare moment of quiet wonder in an otherwise bustling world, all the more impressive knowing the city is literally on the other side of the forest.
It really is an experience that resonated deeply long after we left the trail.
More Than Just an Attraction – Contributing to Conservation
Beyond providing entertainment and wonder, Astra Lumina holds significant importance due to its contribution to conservation efforts at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
Proceeds from ticket sales directly fund the sanctuary’s vital conservation programs and support the operations of the Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.
Currumbin Wildlife Hospital is renowned for its critical wildlife care and rehabilitation work, treating thousands of injured, orphaned, or sick animals annually.
A visit to Astra Lumina thus serves a dual purpose: enjoyment of a unique nighttime experience and active participation in protecting Australia’s cherished wildlife.
READ MORE: Keen to get out on the trail? Here’s our guide to the top hikes on the Gold Coast!
Astra Lumina Practical Visitor Tips
To make the most of Astra Lumina consider arriving shortly after sunset to experience optimal viewing conditions and fewer crowds.
Comfortable clothing and suitable footwear are essential, as some sections of the trail include gentle slopes and unsealed paths.
Bringing a small flashlight or using your phone’s torch can also be beneficial for convenience, although the trail itself is sufficiently illuminated.
Families with young children and visitors with specific accessibility needs should contact Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary beforehand to ensure a smooth experience, with staff able to advise on the most suitable pathways.
Getting There and Around
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is conveniently located at 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin, and is easily accessible by car, with ample onsite parking available.
Alternatively, the sanctuary is well-served by public transportation, taxis, and rideshare services from major hubs along the Gold Coast.
Dining and Additional Amenities
Before or after your Astra Lumina experience, visitors can enjoy a range of refreshments, including snacks and beverages available onsite.
There is an onsite food truck providing excellent options for a quick bite or a relaxing moment around a firepit, enhancing your overall visit.
An Oasis Amongst the Gold Coast
Astra Lumina offers a truly unique nighttime experience that beautifully blends innovative technology, storytelling, and natural beauty.
Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, a stroll along this magical trail promises to captivate your imagination and deepen your appreciation for the wonders of both our world and the vast cosmos above.
Beyond its undeniable entertainment value, your participation directly supports wildlife conservation, making it an enriching and meaningful adventure.
What is Astra Lumina at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary?
Astra Lumina is an immersive night walk experience using light, sound, and projection to guide visitors through a 1.5km trail at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.
How long does Astra Lumina take?
The walk takes approximately 60–90 minutes at a relaxed pace.
Is Astra Lumina suitable for kids or families?
Yes, the trail is family-friendly and accessible for most ages.
Can you visit Astra Lumina in the rain?
Yes, the experience continues in wet weather. Illuminated umbrellas are available for rent.
Do I need to book Astra Lumina tickets in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book online ahead of time, especially on weekends and holidays.
Is Astra Lumina wheelchair accessible?
Some parts of the trail are accessible, but guests should contact the sanctuary in advance for full details.
Where is Astra Lumina located in the Gold Coast?
Inside Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary at 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin.
Are there food and drinks available at Astra Lumina?
Yes, there’s a cafe and food stall near the entrance for snacks and drinks.
Is Astra Lumina Gold Coast worth visiting?
Absolutely—it’s a unique, immersive night walk unlike anything else in the region.
Is parking available at Currumbin for Astra Lumina?
Yes, onsite and offsite parking is available.
Are there other Astra Lumina experiences around the world?
Yes, other Lumina night walks exist in Canada, Japan, and Europe, but this is the first permanent one in the Southern Hemisphere.
Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Nenets on:
September 18th to 24th, 2025
The Nenets are an ethnic group indigenous to Arctic Russia, a group of nomads and reindeer herders living in the extreme north of Siberia, in one of the most challenging environments in the world.
Despite living in one of the most isolated places on Earth, today it’s possible to meet Nenets, while staying in their camps.
This is the rawest and most authentic experience you will ever have.
This guide will explain everything you need to know to visit the Nenets in Russia’s extreme north.
Remember that we have scheduled Nenets Expeditions on the following dates:
Since 2014, I have been traveling to some of the remotest areas in the world.
From riding on top of an iron ore train across the Sahara to having the whole of Djenné all to myself in Mali, or reaching the Minaret of Jam by public transportation in Afghanistan; I have experienced endless raw adventures, for which I consider myself very fortunate.
However, the few days I spent cohabiting with the Nenets in far-north Russia was a whole other level.
Just imagine a group of people living in what is perhaps the least known and remotest region in the world: Arctic Russia.
This part of Arctic Russia (Yamalia, north Siberia) is not only extremely freezing, it’s also massively isolated, there aren’t any roads, and there’s absolutely nothing but endless frozen tundra.
Still, Nenets choose to live there out of a tent and with a few hundred reindeer: that’s all they have.
The Arctic tundra is the Nenets’ actual home, where they live and keep moving 365 days a year under the most extreme weather conditions, surviving on reindeer blood, meat and little else.
Living together with the Nenets is an extremely rough experience, the reason being that their life is really harsh but that’s precisely the point: to experience what it’s like to live in the Arctic tundra of Siberia.
Trust me, nothing can get as raw as this.
A Nenet drinking blood from a recently killed reindeer
Location: where are the Nenets?
Tundra Nenets live in the northern part of Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, an autonomous region that forms part of Tyumen Oblast.
It’s important to keep in mind that not all Nenets choose to have a nomadic style.
Some of them live in towns and villages within Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug, and have ordinary jobs. They work in banks, supermarkets and the public sector.
However, thousands of Nenets are still living a 100% nomadic style, migrating across the tundra that borders the Kara Sea every 2-3 days, 365 days a year.
The vast Arctic tundra, where Nenets live
You can find the approximate location of Tundra Nenets in the map below.
How to get to Yamalia
The main transportation hub in Yamalia is a small city named Salekhard, the administrative center of Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous Okrug.
How to get to Salekhard by plane
There are daily 3-hour flights from Moscow to Salekhard with Yamal Airlines.
You can also find direct flights from Saint Petersburg, Kazan and Ekaterinburg.
Please remember that due to the current sanctions, it’s not possible to book flights using a foreign bank card directly from the airline’s website.
Salekhard doesn’t have a train station but alternatively, you can take a train to Labytnangui, a small town less than 20km from Salekhard, located just across the Obi River by ferry.
From Moscow, there are direct trains to Labytnangui, but keep in mind that it’s a 48-hour train journey, kind of cool for those with plenty of time, but do plan accordingly.
How to get around Yamalia and reach the Nenets’ camps
Nenets live spread across the vast tundra.
What is more, they also keep moving all year long, plus you can only be sure of where they are if you’re able to get in contact with them on a satellite phone.
Therefore, it’s plainly obvious that there isn’t any public transportation to take you there.
To make things even more complicated, regular 4WDs can’t drive across the tundra, only TREKOLs, a Russian-manufactured vehicle designed for that specific terrain.
This makes traveling to Yamal particularly complicated and expensive.
Best time to visit Nenets
Here’s how to visit Tundra Nenets, season by season.
Meeting Nenets in winter: December to mid-March
From December to March, tundra nomads live in the harshest of all conditions.
They live in north Siberia, where winter temperatures never exceed more than -25ºC, dropping to -50ºC at night.
Can you still visit Nenets in winter?
Yes, you can, they will be happy to accommodate you and you won’t be the first traveler to stay in their tent, but you will certainly suffer.
A local Nenet in deep winter
Meeting Nenets during ‘mild’ winter: mid-March to May and mid-October to November
During the shoulder season, the tundra is covered in snow but temperatures rarely drop below -25ºC.
If you want to experience white tundra landscapes without suffering too much, this is the best season.
Remember that we have 2 tours on the following dates:
While summer might seem an ideal season to visit the Arctic tundra due to higher temperatures, June to August is the worst time to travel in Yamalia, for 2 reasons:
The tundra is plagued with mosquitos
The level of the river is too high to cross it in the tundra vehicles
On the other hand, September should be fine.
While the weather in September is not as good as in July and August, you don’t have problems with mosquitos, and the river level is just right.
Remember that we have the following tour in September:
A Nenet trying to catch their reindeer
Accommodation when visiting the Nenets
Nenets live in a traditional tent called chum, a pyramid-shaped tent made of reindeer skin with very basic amenities.
This is what a chum looks like
A chum has to be basic because they set them up and take them down every few days, all year round.
Chums are big enough to accommodate up to 10 people, including the family of Nenets, and you’ll be sleeping with them and 4 other travelers.
That’s for accommodation in the tundra.
In Salekhard, Yamalia’s main town, there are several hotels, and we recommend a 3-star hotel called Hotel 89.
Nenets setting up a chum
Yamalia Itinerary: things to do when visiting the Nenets
Here’s our suggested itinerary for visiting the Nenets and the region.
Remember that this is the itinerary we follow on all our Nenets expeditions.
Day 1 – Arrival in Salekhard and transfer to Yamal Peninsula
Flights from Moscow to Salekhard arrive at 8 am, which is the perfect time to start your journey into the tundra.
Alternatively, there’s a second flight arriving at 4 pm, but you will have to spend the night in Salekhard.
We recommend Hotel 89, sometimes also listed as Parallel Hotel.
The journey from Salekhard to Nenets’ campsite takes 8 – 12 hours, depending on their present location.
The campsite you will arrive on day 1.
Day 2, 3 and 4 – Living with the Nenets
Three full days is the amount of time I recommend spending with the Nenets.
It’s important to remember that cohabiting with Nenets is more about observing their daily life, focusing on high-quality photography, and helping them with their daily chores, rather than having a full day packed with activities.
Nenet’s daily chores
However, you can still do plenty of activities, which typically include:
Fishing: especially ice-fishing during the colder months.
Witnessing migration: This is a full day event that implies packing the sleds with all their stuff, and moving to their next location.
Nenets preparing for migration
Reindeer gathering: Nenets use their reindeer for many different things, so they need to gather them all together almost every day no mean feat, for which they need 3 to 4 hours at least.
Nenet gathering her reindeer
Reindeer slaughtering: This isn’t for everyone but it’s certainly something to experience. After killing the chosen reindeer, they drink its blood while still warm, and eat some of the organs raw. The meat is consumed over the following days and/or weeks. Once they run out of meat, they start over with the process.
This is part of the ritual:
Nomad games: Nenets play their own games/sports and, if you are staying with them for long enough, you are likely to see a demonstration. All their games are related to strength and lasso skills.
Day 5 – Transfer to Salekhard
We recommend departing no later than 8 am, since there will be a long journey ahead of you, a 12-hour drive.
After almost 5 days of no shower, being back in Salekhard feels absolutely great, and these are the restaurants I recommend:
Day 6 – Visit Salekhard
Salekhard is a small town but there are quite a few interesting things to do, the most interesting being Yamal National Museum.
Recently renovated, I was very impressed by the quality of that museum. They even feature 2 small mammoths rescued from the permafrost, so you can still appreciate their skin.
Salekhard also has its Lenin Square, a local market selling typical regional products, and two souvenir shops.
The streets of Salekhard
Day 7 – Departure
The flight from Salekhard to Moscow departs at 9:30 am
More practical information for visiting the Nenets
For all the information related to visas, money, getting a SIM card, etc., please check our travel guide to Russia
Packing list
It’s important to bring suitable gear and clothes for the frozen tundra.
This is our recommended packing list for visiting the Nenets.
Wet wipes
Hand sanitizer
Headlamp
Power bank and/or spare batteries
Personal toiletries
Towel
Thermo
Inflatable camping mattress
Personal medical kit
Sunscreen
For April and November tours, the temperature can easily drop to -25ºC, even -30º. The temperature inside your chum in the middle of the night – without the fire on – will be around -10ºC. We recommend:
Extra warm jacket
Windbreaker
Sleeping bag (-10ºC)
Extra warm gloves
Winter hat
Thermal T-shirt and pants
Thermal socks
Extra layers of warm clothes (having lots of layers is the best protection against freezing temperatures)
For the September tour, the temperature will drop to -8ºC max. You will need the same type of clothes, but perhaps not as many layers and a slightly lighter sleeping bag (-5ºC).
What’s the food like?
Reindeer meat, usually accompanied with soup, pasta or rice.
Before heading into the tundra, we recommend stopping at the supermarket to buy extra snacks.
What about vegetarians?
Nenets can cook plain rice and pasta but I recommend bringing your own snacks, such as instant noodles, for example.
Internet and connectivity
There’s no connection in the tundra, you’ll be completely offline for your entire stay.
Can I charge my devices when we’re in the tundra?
The Nenets have a generator which they can switch on at night. This can be used for emergencies, but I still recommend bringing a power bank and spare batteries.
More helpful information to visit Russia
📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.
All guides and articles for traveling in Russia destination
Scan our Heymondo review to discover the benefits and drawbacks of this innovative travel insurance company. See for yourself if it’s the right travel insurance choice for you!
Traveling is all about embracing the unknown, but that doesn’t mean you want to be caught off guard. That’s why we get travel insurance every time we hit the road, and Heymondo is our pick for our next trip.
It’s not perfect, though nothing is (well, except maybe Häagen-Dazs Cookies & Cream ice cream), but there are some real perks that make Heymondo worth considering. No messy paperwork, no deductibles, and a handy app that gives you 24/7 worldwide assistance – that’s pretty useful when you’re far from home. The ease of getting a quote is a big plus too – just a few clicks and you’re done.
What could possibly go wrong?
Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a longer adventure, it’s good to know that Heymondo has options that might fit your needs.
Here’s our honest take on how it stacks up.
Heymondo travel insurance
Traveling is an adventure, but let’s be real – sometimes it comes with its share of hiccups. Over the years, we’ve learned the hard way that having solid travel insurance is non-negotiable.
A few years back, I ended up in a hospital in Thailand for three days. It definitely was not part of the plan.
My hospital room in Thailand
And then there was the time our son got injured in Greece. Both were stressful situations, but knowing we had travel insurance meant that at least we didn’t have to worry about facing a massive medical bill on top of everything else. Having that safety net was a game-changer.
Why We Chose Heymondo
One of the things I appreciate most about Heymondo is how simple it is to get a quote. I’m not a fan of filling out endless forms, so the fact that I could just select the type of insurance, plug in a few basic details like our destination and travel dates, and instantly get a quote was a huge win for me. There was no need to painstakingly enter birthdates and names for each of the four of us, which, honestly, saved me a lot of time and hassle.
But ease of use isn’t the only reason I’ll be using Heymondo.
What Heymondo Offers
Heymondo offers a range of coverage options that suit different types of trips. Whether you’re planning a short vacation, a business trip, or a long stay, there’s likely a plan that fits your needs.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
Travel Insurance: For your next leisure or business trip, Heymondo has you covered.
Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance: If you’re a frequent traveler, this might be a great option. It covers all the trips you take in a year, as long as each trip is under 60 days.
Long Stay Travel Insurance: Planning an extended stay? Heymondo’s got a flexible plan that covers trips longer than 90 days.
One of the standout features is the Covid-19 coverage. It includes 24/7 worldwide assistance and covers things like medically prescribed PCR tests and cancellation in case of severe illness or death due to Covid-19 (in policies that include trip cancellation). This kind of flexibility and comprehensive coverage brings a lot of peace of mind, especially with everything that’s happened in the last few years.
My Heymondo Quote
I was really curious what travel insurance would cost for me, for a five day trip down to the USA from Canada.
So, I got a quote from Heymondo travel insurance for me (I’m Canadian) traveling five days worldwide including USA.
The quote was insanely easy to get. I just entered my trip dates, where I was going, and selected the type of insurance (annual or single trip). Just a few clicks, and I had my quote. No annoying medical questionnaires, or endless scrolling to select drop-down dates. My quote took all of about 60 seconds.
The Heymondo Medial insurance, the most basic, cost $24.93. That included a whopping $10 million USD emergency medical and dental expenses overseas. PLUS medical transport and repatriation home. The medical transport and repatriation home is a big deal to me, because if something really serious happens, I’d want to be transported back to Canada.
The Heymondo Top insurance had a few extra bells and whistles, including $1700 USD baggage coverage, $450 USD travel disruption, and $3.500 trip cancellation and interruption. It also had $10 million USD emergency medical and dental expenses overseas. PLUS medical transport and repatriation home.
The Heymondo Premium insurance had $2,500 baggage insurance, $1.500 travel disruption, and $7,000 trip cancellation and interruption. It also had $10 million USD emergency medical and dental expenses overseas. PLUS medical transport and repatriation home.
Are adventure sports, electronics, or cruise insurance included in the travel insurance?
I could get optional adventure sports, electronics, or cruise insurance on the Heymondo Top and Heymondo Premium Plans. I couldn’t get it added to the Heymondo basic.
The Heymondo App: A Handy Tool
The Heymondo app is another feature I found incredibly useful. It’s like having a travel assistant right in your pocket.
Need to chat with a doctor? You can do that directly through the app’s 24/7 medical chat. Got a question about your policy or need to file a claim? The app handles that too, along with free online assistance calls from anywhere in the world. All your policy details are also stored in the app, so they’re easy to access whenever you need them.
Because travel insurance policies can change without warning, look over your specific insurance policy before you buy and don’t be afraid to look into any fine print if something seems off to you.
Final Thoughts
While no travel insurance is perfect, Heymondo has proven to be user-friendly for us, with a nice selection of plans from basic travel medical to annual multi-trip. The coverage is solid, the app is a great convenience, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing we’re protected is priceless. If you’re planning a trip, whether it’s a short getaway or a longer adventure, we’d recommend giving Heymondo a look. It might just make your travels a little less stressful and a lot more enjoyable.
From exploring the Alice Springs Desert Park to Simpsons Gap, these are some of the most incredible things to do in Alice Springs.
Alice Springs, located in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, is more than just a stop on the way to Uluru. It’s a destination in its own right!
Surrounded by rugged desert terrain, this lively outback town in the Northern Territory is a melting pot of culture, history, and natural beauty.
As the spiritual heart of Australia, Alice Springs is a place where ancient rivers and rugged mountains, shaped over millions of years, meet Aboriginal culture that is rich in art and storytelling.
Numerous historic sites throughout Alice Springs tell the story of the region’s settler past. One such place is the Old Telegraph Station Reserve, an iconic landmark that marks the town’s pivotal role as the midpoint of the 19th-century telegraph line connecting Adelaide to Darwin.
For adventure seekers, tackling the breathtaking Larapinta Trail is an absolute must. Recognised by National Geographic as one of the world’s top 20 trekking experiences, this epic trail stretches through the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges, rewarding you with some of Australia’s most mesmerising Outback scenery.
After a day of exploring, unwind and take in the vibrant atmosphere of Alice Springs. Head to the town centre, where you’ll find quirky bars, cosy cafés, and scenic restaurants. These are the best things to do in Alice Springs!
18 Incredible Things To Do in Alice Springs
Alice Springs is packed with incredible experiences. Whether you’re here to explore its breathtaking landscapes or learn about its vibrant heritage, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences waiting for you to discover.
Check out some of the best things to do in Alice Springs.
A visit to Alice Springs Desert Park is an absolute must for anyone wanting to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of Central Australia up close. This immersive park showcases three distinct desert habitats, where you can explore the unique flora and fauna that thrive in the Outback.
A paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, Alice Springs Desert Park has some of Australia’s most iconic animals like emus, dingoes, and red kangaroos.
Witness the breathtaking free-flying bird show, where eagles and falcons soar overhead, and even get up close with a majestic wedge-tailed eagle.
Stop by the Nocturnal House, where you’ll discover the elusive creatures of the desert night, including rare marsupials and fascinating reptiles.
Aside from being a wildlife sanctuary, the Alice Springs Desert Park is a gateway to understanding the rich culture and traditions of the Aboriginal people.
Dive deep into Aboriginal culture as expert guides bring Dreamtime stories to life, sharing ancient wisdom and traditions passed down for generations.
Learn essential survival skills, from tracking wildlife to finding water in the arid landscape, and discover the rich traditions of bush tucker, where native plants and ingredients have sustained Indigenous communities for thousands of years.
A bird of prey on the move in Alice Springs Desert Park.
2. Tee off at one of the world’s best desert golf courses
Golfing in Alice Springs is a truly unique experience, as lush fairways and manicured greens stand in contrast to the rugged red landscapes of the Northern Territory.
Golf lovers shouldn’t miss the chance to tee off at Alice Springs Golf Club, one of Australia’s premier desert courses. It offers a unique and challenging game, with lush fairways contrasting beautifully against the rugged MacDonnell Ranges.
Challenge yourself with 9 or 18 holes on this championship course, where narrow fairways wind between rocky outcrops, and the ‘rough’ is as wild as the Outback itself.
The club also features a floodlit driving range, a putting green, and a fully equipped pro shop for all your golfing needs.
But if you’re looking for a more relaxed activity, you can play lawn bowls on the grass bowling green.
After your game, unwind at the modern clubhouse and restaurant, where you can indulge in a well-earned meal and drink surrounded by spectacular views.
3. Explore the MacDonnell Ranges
Enjoy an unforgettable adventure in the Outback with a visit to the breathtaking East and West MacDonnell Ranges.
Home to some of Central Australia’s most stunning landscapes, these rugged mountain ranges have scenic hiking trails that lead through ancient gorges and dramatic rock formations.
Along the way, take in the rich red rock landscapes, ghost gum trees, and abundant wildlife that make this region spectacular.
For a hassle-free experience, consider booking the West MacDonnell Ranges Day Trip from Alice Springs. This tour allows you to visit multiple highlights, including the East Macdonnell Ranges and West Macdonnell Ranges with expert guides providing insights into the area’s history, geology, and cultural significance.
4. Swim in the Ellery Creek Big Hole
After an adventure-filled hike through the MacDonnell Ranges, there’s no better way to cool off than with a refreshing swim at Ellery Creek Big Hole.
Known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery, the stunning waterhole is one of the most beautiful and popular swimming spots in the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Surrounded by towering red cliffs and ancient rock formations, the cool water provides a welcome respite from the Outback heat. Enjoy a leisurely swim or a quick dip while soaking in the serenity of the place.
Take advantage of the shaded picnic areas with tables and BBQ facilities. Don’t forget to pack some food, fire up the grill, and enjoy a laid-back meal surrounded by breathtaking views!
5. Admire Aboriginal Art at Araluen Cultural Precinct
No visit to Alice Springs is complete without immersing yourself in its vibrant Aboriginal art scene. As the heart of Indigenous Australian culture, the town is home to numerous art galleries and cultural centers showcasing the works of local and regional First Nations artists.
A must-visit is the Araluen Cultural Precinct, where you can admire an impressive collection of paintings, intricate weavings, sculptures, traditional artifacts, and sacred sites that tell the stories of the land, the aboriginal people, and their deep spiritual connections.
The museum also houses works by renowned Indigenous artists, including those from the famous Papunya Tula movement, known for their striking dot paintings.
For a truly immersive art experience in Alice Springs, attend the Desert Mob Exhibition, an annual event held at the Araluen Arts Centre.
The Desert Mob Exhibition showcases stunning works from over 30 Indigenous art centres across Central Australia. Attending this event allows a rare opportunity to see and purchase authentic Aboriginal art directly from the artists.
The prestigious exhibition brings together hundreds of contemporary Indigenous artworks from art centers across Central Australia.
6. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
An Early Morning Hot Air Balloon Flight is an experience you should not miss in Alice Springs. There’s nothing quite like floating high above the vast Outback as the first light of dawn appears!
Waking up before the sun is a small price for the unforgettable experience of drifting above the Red Centre in a hot air balloon.
These flights are run by trusted operators like Outback Ballooning, promising a seamless and unforgettable experience in Alice Springs.
Along with complimentary hotel pick-up and drop-off, they will treat you to light refreshments and a celebratory glass of sparkling wine upon landing.
A hot air balloon ride is one of the best things to do in Alice Springs.
7. Immerse Yourself in the Outback at Ooraminna Station Homestead
Just 30 minutes south of Alice Springs in the heart of the Northern Territory, Ooraminna Station Homestead offers an authentic Outback experience within a spectacular national park-like setting.
Spanning 600 acres of rugged red desert terrain, the secluded retreat allows visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Australian bush while still enjoying modern comforts.
Ooraminna Station features luxury cabins, glamping tents, and a historic film set originally built for the 2002 movie The Drover’s Boy. It’s a sought-after destination for private events, weddings, and unforgettable Outback dining experiences.
While you’ll spend most of your time here relaxing, adventure awaits those who love to explore the great outdoors.
Hike through the scenic bushwalking trails where you could spot native wildlife such as kangaroos, emus, and wedge-tailed eagles. Stop by spectacular overlooks and marvel at the awe-inspiring views!
8. Get Up Close with Wildlife at the Alice Springs Reptile Centre
Want a close encounter with some of Australia’s most fascinating and often misunderstood creatures? Visit the Alice Springs Reptile Centre.
As one of the most unique attractions in Alice Springs, it is home to a diverse range of reptiles, from frilled-necked lizards and massive goannas to saltwater crocodiles and venomous snakes!
One of the highlights is its interactive reptile show, where you can learn about these incredible creatures from expert handlers.
If you’re brave enough, you can even touch or hold some friendlier residents, like pythons and blue-tongued lizards.
The centre’s exhibits also provide valuable insight into the adaptations that allow these reptiles to survive in the harsh Northern Territory environment.
Explore more of the Northern Territory with a visit to Darwin!
9. Discover the Telegraph Station Historical Reserve
The Alice Springs Telegraph Station is one of the town’s most iconic and historically significant landmarks.
As the site of the first European settlement in Central Australia, it connects Australia’s north and south via the Overland Telegraph Line in the 19th century.
A beautifully preserved heritage site, it takes you to a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past through interactive displays, guided tours, and restored buildings.
History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, including the National Road Transport Hall of Fame. Here, learn about Australia’s transport history, from vintage trucks to locomotives, and get to know the pioneers who helped shape the Outback.
Don’t miss the Alice Springs School of the Air, where you can gain insight into the world’s largest classroom, providing education to children in remote areas of the Australian Outback.
Another highlight is the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum, which celebrates one of Australia’s most remarkable medical services.
Offering an immersive look into the incredible work of the flying doctors who provide lifesaving healthcare to remote communities in the Northern Territory for nearly a century, the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum is a fascinating place to explore.
The best way to explore these historic sites is by joining a guided Historical Tour of Alice Springs. This immersive experience takes you through some of the town’s most significant landmarks, including the School of the Air, the Telegraph Station, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum.
10. Meet the Hermannsburg Potters
When visiting Alice Springs, get to know the Hermannsburg Pottery, which features bold colors and intricate depictions of community life.
The distinctive ceramic art is crafted by the Hermannsburg Potters, a First Nations art cooperative that continues the proud artistic traditions of the Western Arrernte people.
Located in the historic township of Hermannsburg, just an hour and 20 minutes from Alice Springs, a visit to the pottery workshop allows you to watch artists bring their terracotta pieces to life.
Each hand-built creation tells a unique story, consisting of desert landscapes, native wildlife, and moments from everyday life.
While in Hermannsburg, stop by the Historic Precinct, where 19th-century German-style buildings offer insight into the Lutheran missionaries who first settled here in 1877.
Before returning to Alice Springs, indulge in a slice of German apple strudel at the Kata Anga Tea Rooms. It’s a delicious treat right in the heart of the Outback!
11. Experience the Kangaroo Sanctuary
For an unforgettable wildlife experience, head to The Kangaroo Sanctuary – a must-visit for animal lovers and anyone looking to get up close and personal with one of Australia’s most beloved creatures.
The iconic rescue center cares for orphaned and injured kangaroos, giving them a safe and natural environment to thrive.
You’ll also have the chance to meet Kangaroo Dundee. The renowned Australian kangaroo carer gained international recognition through the 2013 BBC documentary “Kangaroo Dundee.” It showcased his incredible work rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned joeys, which you get to learn more about on your visit to the kangaroo sanctuary.
As you wander around, you’ll be introduced to the mob of rescued kangaroos, learning about their behaviours, personalities, and the incredible rescue efforts that help them survive.
One of the most heartwarming moments? Cradling a baby joey in your arms. This special moment is a must for wildlife lovers!
Get up close and personal with kangaroos at the sanctuary!
12. Hike the Larapinta Trail
When describing the Larapinta Trail, “breathtaking” is an understatement.
Stretching 223 kilometres through the rugged heart of Central Australia, this epic trail begins in Alice Springs and winds its way along the West MacDonnell Ranges.
This bucket-list trek isn’t for the faint of heart, though. Made up of 12 challenging sections, the trail is known for its demanding terrain with two sections officially rated “very hard” and six labeled “hard.”
Even the easiest segments of the trail require determination and endurance, so be prepared for blisters, battered boots, and aching legs.
But the reward? Incredible scenery! Just imagine walking through fields of blooming desert roses, watching a sky ablaze with stars at night, and stumbling upon secluded waterholes.
Also try to check out the Olive Pink Botanic Garden, Australia’s only arid zone botanic garden nestled in the heart of Alice Springs.
The tranquil oasis is home to hundreds of Central Australian plant species, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and those curious about the region’s unique flora.
Explore the five self-guided walking trails, which wind through the gardens. Along the way, you get a closer look at native desert plants, including vibrant wildflowers, towering ghost gums, and resilient spinifex grasses.
Check out the sculptures and interpretive signs to learn about the area’s ecology and Olive Pink’s pioneering conservation efforts.
You can also take a short climb up Tharrarltneme (Annie Myers Hill) for the best views. From here, admire the panoramic views of Alice Springs and the surrounding MacDonnell Ranges.
14. Join the Henley on Todd Regatta
If you’re visiting Alice Springs in August, don’t miss the Henley on Todd Regatta, one of Australia’s quirkiest and most entertaining events.
Unlike traditional boat races, the regatta happens on the dry Todd River. Participants race on foot while carrying makeshift “boats” made of wood, fabric, or even strange objects like bathtubs!
The hilarious event, first held in 1962, is inspired by the famous Henley Royal Regatta in England – but with a unique Outback twist!
Witness competitors hilariously lift their bottomless boats and run through the sandy riverbed in a test of speed, coordination, and sheer fun.
You’ll also be treated to live entertainment, food stalls, and themed competitions, making it one of the most family-friendly events around Alice Springs.
As the world’s only land-based boat race, the Henley on Todd Regatta is a one-of-a-kind spectacle that perfectly embodies the lighthearted spirit of Alice Springs and the adventurous charm of the Northern Territory.
15. Cycle to Simpson’s Gap
A ride to Simpsons Gap is a must-do for cycling enthusiasts in Alice Springs.
It’s one of the most iconic natural wonders in Central Australia, renowned for its striking red cliffs and a permanent water hole. Simpsons Gap also holds deep cultural significance for the Arrernte people, as several Dreaming trails and stories converge here.
Rent a bicycle and embark on a scenic 17-kilometre ride along the Simpsons Gap Bike Path, a well-maintained trail that winds through the stunning landscapes of the West MacDonnell Ranges.
For the most magical experience, wake up early and time your ride to arrive at dawn.
As the first rays of sunlight paint the rugged cliffs of Simpson’s Range in a golden glow, watch the landscape come alive in a jaw-dropping display of colours!
Also, when you visit during the cooler hours, you could spot rock wallabies, which often emerge from their rocky hiding spots to feed during this time.
For a truly iconic Outback adventure in Alice Springs, embark on a camel ride with Pyndan Camel Tracks. Traverse the breathtaking red desert park on the back of a gentle, well-trained camel, just as explorers and settlers once did.
Pyndan Camel Tracks offers noon, afternoon, and sunset tours, each providing a different perspective of the stunning Central Australian scenery.
Riding at sunset is particularly magical, where you can witness the golden hues of the setting sun cast long shadows over the rugged terrain.
The ride through the Outback is surprisingly peaceful. Only the gentle footsteps of the camels and the whisper of the desert breeze break the silence.
You can also spot kangaroos, perentie lizards, wedge-tailed eagles, and other fascinating creatures along the way.
17. Meander through the Arltunga Historical Reserve
Another place to visit around Alice Springs to learn about the region’s history is the Arltunga Historical Reserve.
As Central Australia’s first official town and now a captivating ghost town, exploring Arltunga takes you into the region’s gold rush era of the late 19th century.
Once bustling with fortune seekers, it is now an abandoned settlement filled with well-preserved ruins, old mine shafts, and remnants of stone buildings that tell the story of Australia’s tough Outback pioneers.
Walking through Arltunga feels like stepping back in time. You can explore the old police station, see the government battery, and even crawl into hand-dug mining tunnels to experience the harsh conditions miners endured.
Interpretive signs provide insight into the struggles and hopes of those who once lived here.
Located about 110 kilometers east of Alice Springs, it is only accessible by a 4WD vehicle. Visiting this ghost town is an incredible way to connect with the Northern Territory’s fascinating history.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.
18. Savour local delicacies
One of the best ways to truly immerse yourself in the culture of Alice Springs is through its food.
The town’s dining scene features a mix of modern Australian cuisine and unique Outback flavours, so there is always something to delight food lovers.
Feast on a hearty meal or challenge yourself to savour exotic dishes like camel burgers – a true Outback specialty. The Rock Bar is especially famous for this. It’s a lively bar and restaurant known for its great atmosphere and Aussie-style pub meals.
Feeling adventurous? Sample crocodile spring rolls or emu fillets at restaurants like Tali at Lasseters, one of the top fine dining restaurants in Alice Springs.
For a casual bite, head to Todd Mall, and check out cosy cafés like Page 27 Café, known for its fresh, locally inspired meals and excellent coffee.
While exploring Todd Mall, don’t miss trying wattleseed-infused desserts for a truly unique taste of Northern Territory.
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DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!
It is like a time-out from life — like the ones you got in grade school, but this time more fun. It slows us down, makes us stop and smell the roses, and creates a little change in the normal patterns of our lives.
Travel is a tried and true way to reset when you are feeling low or just need a new perspective. It’s an amazing tool for personal development and a wonderful vehicle for self-reflection and growth.
Whether you take a weekend, a week, a month, or a year, just getting out and doing something different can recharge your batteries. The excitement, the fun, and the new places you’ll see can give you more energy and bring you back into focus. You’ll get a chance to meet some great people and even get offline and disconnect if you need to.
Think about it: when you travel, you’re away from all the stress in your life. You are in a new environment. There are a lot of things to see and do, people to meet, places to go, and fun challenges to overcome. You can let go, relax, and embrace new habits or perspectives. In short, you can be a new you.
And you have ultimate freedom when you travel — and freedom is the most liberating, stress-free experience there is.
By focusing on your mental health when you travel you can return to work and your responsibilities with new focus and commitment, because you have cleared your head.
Plus, you may find a new passion or opportunity that would never have presented itself otherwise. There are tons of job opportunities overseas, too, so you can even work while traveling if you want.
Most of us work toward retirement — that time when we can sit back, relax, and do what we want instead of what we have to do. But by the time many of us get there, we might not have the money — or health — to do that. After all, there are no guarantees in life.
We may never even make it to retirement.
That’s why I say: don’t put off your dreams for a future that may never come.
That’s why I say: now is the best time to travel — because you don’t know what the future holds.
I’ve seen friends die, get sick and become bedridden, and businesses collapse. The past is not prologue and if COVID has taught us anything it’s that life and society can change at the drop of a hat.
Don’t be reckless and rack up debt to travel. But if you need a change, look to the open road. The blank slate travel gives you allows you to work on yourself and enjoy life. No one looks back and says, “If only I had worked more.”
We all want to make the most of our time here. Stop delaying all those things you really want to do and just do them. Don’t let your travel dreams remain just dreams — make them your goals.
So, the next time you have visions of white-sand beaches or climbing Mt. Everest, start making them happen.
Don’t let yourself wonder what might have been. Life is too short.
How to Travel the World on $75 a Day
My New York Times best-selling book to travel will teach you how to master the art of travel so that you’ll get off save money, always find deals, and have a deeper travel experience. It’s your A to Z planning guide that the BBC called the “bible for budget travelers.”
Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.
Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
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Need a Rental Car? Discover Cars is a budget-friendly international car rental website. No matter where you’re headed, they’ll be able to find the best — and cheapest — rental for your trip!
Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.
Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.
Wanna travel to Kazakhstan with Against the Compass?
Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Kazakhstan on:
June 4th to 13th, 2025
Kazakhstan is the 9th largest country in the world and the most modern of all the ‘stans’.
Yet very little is known about this fascinating country.
Following more than a few visits there, I compiled this guide with all the relevant travel tips for Kazakhstan, from visas to how to get in, money, and everything needed to plan your trip.
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🇰🇿 Introduction: what it’s like to travel in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is, by far, one of the strangest countries I have ever been to, along with Haiti and Eritrea.
On the one hand, it is a surprisingly developed country, home to the most Westernized city in Central Asia – Almaty, whose inhabitants are very European-minded – as well as some striking mountains.
This is the Aral Sea in Kazakhstan
On the other hand, this gas-rich, barely populated country is also the 9th largest in the world and is home to some of the bizarrest places on Earth, such as an old nuclear testing town, a dried-up sea, the Russian Cosmodrome, and an extremely vast steppe with the occasional hairy 2-humped camel.
Kazakhstan has two faces, and for this reason, it can find a place in everybody’s heart, both the traveler who likes to explore a cosmopolitan city and beautiful mountains, and the avid backpacker who likes to delve deep into obscure places off the beaten track.
Citizens from the following countries can get a free visa on arrival (VOA) in Kazakhstan.
All EU and Schengen countries, Argentina, Australia, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States, Vietnam
This is valid for any entry point, both international airports and land borders, and all you get is a friendly stamp.
Registering in Kazakhstan
In the past, registering your stay with the local authorities was mandatory, but since 2020, it’s no longer a requirement.
🚑 Travel Insurance for Kazakhstan
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Their backpacker plan covers all types of adventure activities, including trekking
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💻 Internet and connectivity when you travel in Kazakhstan
How is the Wi-Fi in Kazakhstan?
Wi-Fi mostly works fine throughout the country.
It’s not the best Wi-Fi in the world but I managed to work online without major issues.
Can I get a SIM Card for Kazakhstan?
Yes, you can get a SIM Card on arrival at the airport or at any official mobile shop. Data plans are really cheap.
I strongly recommend doing so because having a local number is a must to use local taxi apps such as Yandex.
eSIM for browsing, calling and traveling in Kazakhstan
An eSIM is a regular SIM card with a digital format that works like a normal physical SIM card, with the added benefit being that you can buy it at home before the beginning of your trip, hence avoiding the hassle of buying it at your destination.
In Kazakhstan, they use the Kazakh Tenge, and approximately
1 USD = 500 KZT
Can I pay by card in Kazakhstan?
Yes, absolutely. Today, you can pay by card virtually everywhere throughout the country.
The only place where card payments might not be accepted is the café on trains, so do bring cash for your long train journeys across Kazakhstan.
Also, carry some spare cash when you’re visiting smaller villages or traveling by marshrutka instead of train.
Can I use an ATM?
Yes, you will find many ATMs in all towns and cities, most of them accepting foreign cards.
Where can I exchange foreign currency?
You can easily exchange Euros or American Dollars in many banks and offices across the country.
Keep in mind that, except for Russian Rubles, Kazakhstanis aren’t huge fans of their neighbors’ currency. Kyrgyz Som should be fine, but I was never able to exchange the Uzbek Som I had left.
How much does it cost to travel in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is the most expensive of all Stans, including Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Below are the prices of the most typical expenses:
Dorms – 3,000 to 6,000 KZT
Single room in a mid range hotel in Almaty – from 19,000 KZT
Meals in local restaurant – 3,000 KZT
Meals in nicer restaurant – Mains from 4,000KZT
Trains – Aktau to Aralsk, 20 hours, 1,400km, 2nd class (19,000KZT)
Kazakhstan has several international airports, the best known being Almaty International Airport (ALA).
Check out flights with Pegasus, Turkish Airlines or Qatar Airways.
You can also fly into Astana (NQZ), Shymkent (CIT) and Aktau (SCO).
How to travel to Kazakhstan by land border
Kazakhstan shares a border with 5 countries. Pretty much all borders are open.
Russia: Most borders with Russia are open. I crossed the border near Astrakhan in 2024 by train. Easy to cross. Check our Russia travel guide for more info.
Turkmenistan: Open, as long as you have a valid visa for travel in Turkmenistan.
Uzbekistan: Pretty much all borders are open, some can be crossed by train. I crossed by train at Beyneu.
Kyrgyzstan: Busy crossing but no train, only car or marshrutka.
China: Open as long as you have a valid visa for China.
Remember that contrary to what some travelers believe, Kazakhstan doesn’t share a border with Mongolia. It looks like they do, but zoom in and you’ll see there’s a tiny bit of Russia in between.
This is the border between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan
How to travel to Kazakhstan by boat
Long-term overlanders like to catch the ferry from Baku to Aktau, which takes 24 hours. I’ve never taken it but my friends over at Journal of Nomads did.
Kazakhstan is an ex-Soviet republic that got its independence from Russia in 1991.
It is, however, the country with the largest Russian influence in Central Asia – to the extent that Russian is generally more widely spoken than Kazakh itself.
‘We like Russia because she takes cares of us’, a Kazakh friend of mine said.
Kazakhstan is the only Stan that borders Russia, so it’s not surprise that its presence and influence is highly visible.
Friendly Kazakhs
Kazakhstan today
Kazakhstan is the most modern and developed country in Central Asia, something that can be explained by its abundance of natural resources, such as oil and gas.
The Government has also been investing a lot in terms of education, one of their most successful policies being the opportunity of awarding loads of scholarships to students to study abroad at major universities worldwide, the only condition being that they must come back and work in Kazakhstan after X number of years.
This has led to a highly educated work-force for Kazakhstan.
Furthermore, Almaty is a seriously modern city by European standards.
In fact, I think Almaty is the most European city in all of Asia.
Astana is very modern too but it’s one of those brand-new cities with absolutely no soul, more similar to Dubai and Almaty itself.
Modern Astana
Kazakhstani people
Kazakhstanis are descended from Turkic and Mongolian tribes.
Although very ethnically mixed, most of them have strong Mongolian features.
The Kazakhs used to be a nomadic nation that moved across the steppe and their biggest contribution to the Silk Road trade were animal-related products like fur.
However, unlike in Mongolia and neighboring Kazakhstan, nomadic life has pretty much disappeared not only due to the country’s development but also because under the Soviet Union, many Kazakhs were forced to become sedentary and focus on the plantation of wheat.
a friendly Kazakh woman in the mountains near Shymkent
Language in Kazakhstan
Kazakh, a Turkic language, is the official language in Kazakhstan, along with Russian.
Russian however, is the main language used in Almaty.
Well-educated young people from Almaty and Astana can speak English, but other than that, do try to learn some Russian words if you decide to visit Kazakhstan.
Google translate and Google Lens have made our life much easier but still, I recommend learning some Russian words, as well as the alphabet.
Religion in Kazakhstan
Officially, Kazakhstanis are Muslim, although religion doesn’t play any significant role in Kazakhstan.
This is not only because they used to be part of the USSR but also because religion has never seeped into nomadic societies.
Still, you are likely to see a few mosques with a handful of worshipers; generally though, Kazakhs are atheist, even though Saudi Arabia is ploughing millions into trying to reverse that.
Turkestan mosque
🛺 Transportation: how to get around in Kazakhstan
Traveling in Kazakhstan by train
A multi-day train journeys over the Kazakh steppe is an experience by itself and so much fun!
To avoid any hassles, I recommend you download Yandex, which is like the Russian Uber.
Remember that you will need a local number to use Yandex.
🏨 Accommodation: where to stay in Kazakhstan
From backpacking hostels to 5-star hotels, accommodation in Kazakhstan is a no-brainer.
You can find all sorts of accommodation to suit all budgets.
In my Kazakhstan itinerary, you can find a variety of accommodation options in each city I visited.
Epic train journeys, always the most unexpected stuff
🍲 Food and alcohol when you visit Kazakhstan
In large towns and cities, there are all sorts of food available, but when it comes to the local cuisine, this is very similar to other countries in Central Asia.
The first time I visited Kazakhstan, it was my last stop after a trip across the region spanning several months, so I’m a bit biased when it comes to judging Kazakh food, since I was already bored of it before even stepping foot into the country.
When it comes to local dishes, pelmeni (dumpling soup) would be the most common option, as is lagman (noodle soup with horribly chewy and fatty beef).
Horse meat in Kazakhstan
Although you can find horse meat in many countries around the world, nowhere else does it like Kazakhstan, where horse meat is the base of many of their dishes, which is why you’ll see farms all around the country.
I actually visited a horse-farm in Zhabagly, a mountain village around Shymkent.
They kept hundreds of horses and told me that, when the horse gets to a certain age, they decide whether to keep it as a work horse or send it to the butchery.
Horse farm in Kazakhstan
The most unique horse-based dish they have is beshbarmak, a national dish which consists of pasta layers, vegetables, and the star-ingredient being horse meat, all served in a huge flat dish with a bit of broth.
Usually, it is a sharing dish, so the few restaurants that serve it require a minimum order of a couple of people.
Kazakhs reserve beshbarmak for special occasions.
Beshbarmak, the national dish
❗ More resources for traveling to Kazakhstan
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When it comes to expedition cruising, few ships are as well-equipped for polar exploration as Aurora Expeditions’ Sylvia Earle.
Named after Sylvia Earle, the first female chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this vessel pays tribute to her extensive contributions to marine conservation.
Purpose-built for adventure, this state-of-the-art vessel combines cutting-edge technology with comfort, making it an ideal choice for travellers looking to explore the remote and breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions.
We recently spent three weeks onboard the Sylvia Earle in Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands, navigating some of the most awe-inspiring regions on Earth.
From the penguin-speckled beaches of the Falklands to the wildlife-rich shores of South Georgia and the ice-covered landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula, this journey was an unforgettable deep dive into some of the planet’s last true wilderness areas.
But what really sets this ship apart? Is the Ulstein X-BOW® design as smooth as advertised? How does the onboard experience compare to other expedition vessels?
The Sylvia Earle amongst the ice of Winter Island in the Antarctic Peninsula.
And most importantly – is the Sylvia Earle worth booking for your next polar cruise adventure?
Having worked in Antarctica since 2017, Alesha has clocked up 7 trips to the Peninsula on 5 different vessels, and I have visited Antarctica 15 times on 6 vessels.
So it’s safe to say we have a fair bit of experience down here.
In this detailed Sylvia Earle review we break down everything you need to know about the ship, including cabin options, dining, onboard amenities, expedition logistics, and the overall experience.
Whether you’re planning a future trip or simply curious about what it’s like to sail on one of the world’s most advanced expedition vessels, this guide has you covered.
Let’s dive in.
SPECIAL DEAL: Thinking about booking a trip with Aurora Expeditions? We have negotiated a very special deal for readers of NOMADasaurus for any of their polar trips! Email us at hello@nomadasaurus.com to find out more.
A rainbow over the Sylvia Earle in the Falkland Islands.
Key Takeaways
The Ulstein X-BOW significantly reduces movement in rough seas, making crossings like the Drake Passage more comfortable. Passengers experience less motion sickness compared to traditional expedition ships.
130 passengers maximum on their Antarctic expeditions means more time onshore. As IAATO regulations stipulate no more than 100 passengers may be ashore at any one time, when activities like kayaking, day paddling and snorkelling are under way every other passenger can land at the same time.
The efficient mudroom with personal gear storage to the quick and organised Zodiac operations proves that the ship is built for seamless off-ship experiences. Getting on and off for landings is fast, safe, and hassle-free.
The ship’s Observation Lounge, Tektite Bar, and outdoor decks provide plenty of space to relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure constant connection to the landscapes, even when indoors.
The Gentoo and Rockhopper Restaurants serve diverse and well-prepared meals, including à la carte dining and buffet options. Service is warm, efficient, and personalised, adding to the overall comfort of the voyage.
Naturalists, historians, and marine biologists bring the journey to life, leading engaging lectures and expert-guided excursions. Their passion, expertise, and accessibility make the expedition experience truly immersive.
This small ship is able to manoeuvre into some very narrow places, such as Godthul Harbour in South Georgia.
About Aurora Expeditions
Founded in 1991 by Australian mountaineers Greg and Margaret Mortimer, Aurora Expeditions has been a leader in small-group expedition travel for over three decades.
Their inaugural voyage to Antarctica in 1992 set the stage for a legacy of immersive and responsible exploration.
Aurora were also founding members of IAATO, cementing their position as the pioneers of modern Antarctic tourism.
Throughout its history, Aurora has introduced innovative activities to the expedition cruising world, including the first commercial climbing expedition in Antarctica in 1995.
In January 2024, Aurora Expeditions achieved Certified B Corporation™ status, reflecting its commitment to high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
This certification underscores the company’s dedication to balancing purpose and profit, ensuring that its operations positively impact all stakeholders—from employees and communities to the environment.
Aurora’s fleet features modern, purpose-built ships designed for intimate and sustainable travel. The Greg Mortimer, launched in 2019, and the Sylvia Earle, which set sail in 2022, both incorporate the innovative Ulstein X-BOW design, enhancing stability and comfort in challenging seas.
Looking ahead, the company plans to introduce the new Douglas Mawson ship in 2025, further expanding their capacity for exploration and opening up exciting voyages to the Ross Sea and East Antarctica.
With a diverse range of expeditions Aurora Expeditions offers travellers the chance to explore some of the planet’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations, including Antarctica, the Arctic, the British Isles, Costa Rica, and Patagonia, with the South Pacific and Mediterranean now on their horizon.
Looking back on a narrow passage in the Lemaire Channel.
Introduction to the Sylvia Earle Expedition Ship
Operated by Aurora Expeditions, the Sylvia Earle is a purpose-built expedition ship designed for adventure in some of the most remote and challenging environments on Earth.
Named after the renowned marine biologist and oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, this state-of-the-art vessel blends cutting-edge technology with sustainability, ensuring a smooth, comfortable, and environmentally conscious cruising experience.
The Sylvia Earle isn’t just named after one of the world’s most renowned marine biologists though. It’s a ship designed to celebrate and honour women in conservation.
Throughout the vessel different decks and public spaces are themed after pioneering female scientists, activists and environmental leaders who have made significant contributions to protecting the planet.
Each deck pays tribute to a different influential woman, with educational displays highlighting their achievements in marine science, polar exploration, and environmental advocacy.
Looking out the massive windows on the bow of the Sylvia Earle.
This thematic design is a reminder of the critical role women have played in conservation and a source of inspiration for travellers exploring the fragile ecosystems of the polar regions.
Launched in 2022, the Sylvia Earle features a signature Ulstein X-BOW design, which enhances stability in rough seas and reduces fuel consumption.
At 104 meters in length the ship accommodates a maximum of 130 passengers, creating an intimate and immersive expedition atmosphere without sacrificing comfort.
Each voyage is led by a world-class expedition team, offering expert insights into the landscapes, wildlife and history of the destinations visited.
Designed for off-ship exploration the Sylvia Earle is fully equipped with Zodiacs, a science center, observation decks, and multiple adventure options like kayaking, snorkelling, and mountaineering.
Onboard, guests can enjoy spacious cabins, high-quality dining, a wellness center, and immersive educational programs that elevate the expedition experience.
The glass atrium lounge inside the bow of the Sylvia Earle, with its huge windows providing superb views to the front of the ship, is a standout feature that enhances the overall travel experience.
Built to navigate the polar regions with ease, this ship is an excellent choice for travellers seeking an active, enriching, and eco-friendly voyage through some of the world’s most spectacular and untouched landscapes.
The Sylvia Earle offers a range of comfortable and well-designed cabins, catering to different budgets and travel styles while ensuring every guest enjoys a cozy and functional space throughout their expedition.
With a total of 71 staterooms, including twin share rooms, balcony suites, and premium suites, the ship provides a personalised and intimate cruising experience that enhances time spent in some of the world’s most remote destinations.
Each cabin is modern, well-appointed, and designed with expedition travel in mind. Features include ensuite bathrooms, ample storage, adjustable climate control, and large windows or glass doors that allow guests to take in the breathtaking scenery from the comfort of their rooms.
For those seeking a more luxurious experience the suites offer a more spacious layout, a choice between a king bed or two twin beds, a separate lounge area, in-suite binoculars, a one-hour spa treatment for each guest, a stocked mini bar, a bottle of champagne, and included crew gratuities.
The Balcony Stateroom Category A is the most cabin onboard.
Balcony Suites – Our Experience
For our three-week voyage through the Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica, we stayed in a Balcony Stateroom Category C, and it was an absolute game-changer for the experience.
The spacious layout made it feel more like a home base than just a cabin, with a private balcony offering uninterrupted views of towering icebergs, vast Southern Ocean swells, and wildlife-packed beaches.
The seating area was perfect for unwinding after a long day of excursions, and the floor-to-ceiling sliding doors meant we could wake up to sunrise over the Antarctic Peninsula or sip coffee while watching albatross glide effortlessly alongside the ship.
The ensuite bathroom was also surprisingly roomy for an expedition ship, with a walk-in shower and quality amenities.
If you’re considering an upgrade we highly recommend the Balcony Suites. Having a private outdoor space in these breathtaking locations is worth every cent.
POPULAR QUESTION: What type of electrical outlets do they use on the Sylvia Earle? The cabin is equipped with built-in adaptor wall sockets, meaning most electrical plugs from around the world will work without an additional adaptor.
Our cabin was a Balcony Suite Category C, and was the perfect size and comfort level for our journey.
Other Cabin Categories
Aurora Staterooms (Triple/Twin/Single) – The most budget-friendly options, featuring large windows, comfortable twin or triple bedding configurations, and all essential amenities.
Balcony Staterooms – A step up from the Aurora Staterooms, these offer private balconies, additional living space, and upgraded furnishings.
Junior Suites – Larger cabins with premium furnishings, an expanded seating area, and extra storage, ideal for those wanting more comfort.
Captain’s Suite – The largest and most luxurious accommodation on board, featuring a separate bedroom, lounge area, and the most expansive balcony on the ship.
The Lecture Theatre
The Sylvia Earle’s Lecture Theatre serves as the central hub for education, expert insights, and daily expedition briefings, designed to enhance the onboard experience with in-depth knowledge about the destinations visited.
Located on deck 5 between the Gentoo Restaurant and the Citizen Science Lab, this spacious venue is equipped with comfortable seating, a large presentation screen and high-quality audio-visual systems, ensuring every talk is both engaging and accessible.
Expedition cruising is about more than just witnessing breathtaking landscapes – it’s about understanding the ecosystems, wildlife, and history that make these regions so remarkable.
The Lecture Theatre is the main hub on the ship.
Throughout the voyage Aurora Expeditions’ team of naturalists, marine biologists, geologists, and historians deliver a series of fascinating lectures covering topics such as penguin behaviour, climate change in the polar regions, marine conservation, and the stories of legendary Antarctic explorers.
For added convenience, all lectures and briefings are streamed directly to the cabins, allowing guests to watch from the comfort of their room if they prefer to relax in private.
READ MORE: Don’t miss our complete guide covering everything you need to know about travelling to Antarctica!
Beyond traditional lectures the space is also used for daily recaps, photography workshops, guest presentations, and documentary screenings, making it a versatile and frequently used area of the ship.
Daily briefings provide essential updates on weather conditions, upcoming landings, and wildlife sightings, ensuring passengers are well-prepared for each day’s activities.
Sydney, the onboard geologist and glaciologist, giving a fantastic lecture about the geology of South Georgia.
Jarryd and I were onboard as guest photographers, where we gave a series of lectures and workshops on polar photography.
The Library and Citizen Science Lab
Two of the most valuable spaces onboard for curious travellers are the Library and the Citizen Science Lab, both designed to deepen the experience beyond what can be seen from deck or on shore.
Library – A Quiet Retreat with a View
Tucked away in a bright and peaceful corner of the ship, the Library is the perfect place to unwind between landings while soaking in the views from panoramic windows.
Stocked with an impressive selection of books, it covers everything from Antarctic wildlife and glaciology to exploration history and photography guides.
Whether diving into the heroic age of polar exploration or simply paging through stunning photography collections, there’s something for every interest.
The space itself is inviting and comfortable, with cozy seating and a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy to spend hours reading while the ship sails past towering icebergs and snow-covered mountains.
It’s also a great place to review field guides before an excursion or reflect on the day’s sightings with fellow passengers.
The library is one of the best parts of the Sylvia Earle.
Citizen Science Lab – Hands-On Learning and Research
For those wanting to take a more active role in scientific research, the Citizen Science Lab provides a unique opportunity to contribute to real-world conservation efforts while sailing through some of the most remote ecosystems on the planet.
Partnering with various global research organisations, Aurora Expeditions encourages passengers to participate in projects such as cloud and phytoplankton monitoring, seabird surveys, and whale identification programs.
These efforts contribute valuable data to ongoing scientific studies, helping researchers better understand climate change, marine biodiversity, and ecosystem shifts in the polar regions.
There are all kinds of scientific tools to assist with the research work.
Equipped with microscopes, lab stations, and interactive displays, the Citizen Science Lab allows guests to examine plankton samples, compare weather patterns, and analyse findings alongside expert naturalists and scientists.
It’s an engaging way to go beyond sightseeing and actively contribute to polar research, making the expedition feel even more meaningful.
The citizen science lab stands out as a unique feature, allowing passengers to engage in real scientific research during their voyage.
Dr Leo giving a citizen science talk in the lab.
The Restaurants
Embarking on an expedition to the remote corners of the globe doesn’t mean compromising on culinary experiences.
Aboard the Sylvia Earle guests are treated to exceptional dining across two different venues: the Gentoo Restaurant and the Rockhopper Restaurant.
Gentoo Restaurant – Main Dining Venue
Located on Deck 5, the Gentoo Restaurant serves as the ship’s primary dining area, offering a welcoming atmosphere with open seating that encourages camaraderie among travellers.
Floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic views, allowing guests to enjoy the stunning landscapes during their meals.
Both breakfast and lunch are presented buffet-style, featuring a diverse selection to cater to various tastes.
Mornings include options like fresh fruits, pastries, made-to-order eggs, and a range of hot dishes.
The Gentoo Restaurant.
Lunchtime offers an array of salads, soups, and international entrees, ensuring a satisfying meal after morning excursions.
In the evenings the Gentoo transitions to an à la carte service, presenting a daily menu with meat, seafood, and vegetarian options, alongside an “every day” menu featuring classics such as Caesar salad, burgers and sirloin steak.
This setup allows guests to choose between familiar favourites and regional specialties inspired by the voyage’s destinations.
Tea, coffee, and snacks are available around the clock, ensuring guests have access to refreshments at any time.
House wines, beers, and soft drinks are included with dinner, complementing the evening dining experience.
Perched on Deck 8 behind the Observation Bar, the Rockhopper Restaurant offers an intimate and upscale dining alternative.
With seating for up to 40 guests this venue requires reservations, providing an exclusive atmosphere for those seeking a unique culinary experience.
Breakfast and lunch are served à la carte, with lunch featuring classics such as shrimp tacos (our favourite), vegetarian pizza and wraps.
In the evenings the Rockhopper transforms into a steakhouse-style restaurant, offering a set menu that includes appetisers like salmon tartare and seafood chowder, main courses from the grill, and delectable desserts such as chocolate fudge and Tahitian vanilla crème brûlée.
The Rockhopper Restaurant is on Deck 8, has an amazing view and needs to be reserved ahead of time for dinner.
Reservations are required for dinner, ensuring a personalised and attentive dining experience.
The expedition team normally eat downstairs in the Gentoo, but if you personally invite some of them to join you for dinner in the Rockhopper they will love the chance to get to know you more in a smaller setting.
The addition of the Rockhopper Restaurant enhances the overall dining options aboard the Sylvia Earle, providing variety and a touch of indulgence during the expedition.
Both restaurants emphasise sustainability, sourcing high-quality ingredients and offering menus that reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility.
This dedication ensures that even in the most remote locations, guests can enjoy meals that are both delicious and conscientiously prepared.
The Observation Bar
Perched at the forefront of Deck 8, the Observation Lounge aboard the Sylvia Earle offers guests an unparalleled vantage point to immerse themselves in the breathtaking vistas of the polar regions.
This thoughtfully designed space serves as a serene retreat, combining comfort with expansive views, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and wildlife observation.
The lounge features massive windows, ensuring that the stunning landscapes remain a constant backdrop.
The Observation Lounge is a great place to relax at any time of day or night.
Comfortable seating arrangements are thoughtfully positioned to maximise viewing opportunities, allowing guests to witness the majesty of icebergs, channels, and diverse wildlife from the warmth of the indoors.
In addition to its visual appeal the Observation Lounge is equipped with informative resources, including wildlife guides and binoculars, enabling guests to deepen their understanding of the surrounding environment.
In the evenings it also transforms into the place to be for a nightcap, with cocktails, wines and delicious beers flowing for as long as the guests remain thirsty.
Cocktails of the day on offer in the Observation Lounge.
The Tektite Bar
Situated on Deck 5 near the reception area, the Tektite Bar serves as a central gathering spot aboard the Sylvia Earle.
This inviting space offers a comfortable environment for guests to unwind, share stories of the day’s adventures, and enjoy a wide selection of beverages.
The beverage menu at the Tektite Bar is extensive, offering a range of options from classic cocktails and fine wines to local craft beers and non-alcoholic selections.
The bar hosts happy hours, and with plenty of board games scattered around the room it was one of our favourite places to chill after a big day of adventures, throwing the dice for a round of backgammon.
The Tektite Bar.
The Gym, Sauna and Spa
Expedition cruising might be physically demanding, with daily Zodiac landings, long hikes, and adrenaline-filled wildlife encounters, but the Sylvia Earle ensures guests have every opportunity to stay active and recover between adventures.
With a fully equipped gym and a sauna designed for post-expedition relaxation, the ship’s wellness facilities provide a nice balance of fitness and recovery while sailing through some of the most remote regions on Earth.
Located on Deck 7, the Sylvia Earle’s gym is a well-designed space with large windows allowing for natural light and scenic ocean views while working out.
The layout is spacious enough for movement-based exercises yet compact enough to feel intimate and functional.
The gym is equipped with treadmills, stationary bikes, rowing machines, and elliptical trainers, offering plenty of options for cardio workouts while watching the waves roll past.
Strength training is well-supported with a selection of free weights, resistance machines, and mats for bodyweight exercises or stretching.
Lots of weight and cardio machines are available in the gym.
Guests looking for a low-impact option can take advantage of yoga and stretching areas, ideal for warming up before landings or recovering after a long hike in South Georgia.
Unlike many expedition ships where gym facilities can feel like an afterthought, the Sylvia Earle’s fitness space is thoughtfully designed, providing everything needed for a proper workout without feeling cramped or secondary to other onboard amenities.
There is a fantastic gym onboard the Sylvia Earle.
Sauna – Rejuvenation After a Day of Adventure
After a cold and physically demanding day exploring Antarctica, South Georgia, or the Falklands, few things are as rewarding as stepping into the onboard sauna to warm up and relax.
Located next to the wellness center, the sauna provides a quiet, restorative space to soothe sore muscles, improve circulation, and simply unwind while taking in views of the passing landscapes.
Personally we found the layout of the sauna area to be a little strange, and almost as if it was an afterthought.
The sauna itself was great, with its large window bringing in natural light and opening up to views.
But there was no real ‘wet area’ for the sauna at all.
There were two very small change rooms, male and females separated, with a single shower, no toilets, and no lockers to store your personal items.
These were located next to the spa, meaning you need to go out of the sauna and into a public area, dripping sweat and water all over the floor.
It also meant there was nowhere to really cool off after the sauna. To us one of the big benefits for wellness is relaxing in the sauna, cooling off with a cold shower or standing outside in the elements, then getting back into the sauna.
While the sauna itself is great, it definitely does not feel as well thought-out as saunas we’ve seen on other ships.
The sauna onboard the Sylvia Earle is lovely. The space around it is not quite so well thought-out.
There is one spa room on the Sylvia Earle.
The Mud Room
The Sylvia Earle’s mud room, located on Deck 3, is where all expedition landings and adventure activities begin and end.
Designed for efficiency and practicality, this space allows guests to store and prepare their gear without cluttering their cabins.
It’s a purpose-built area that makes getting ready for Zodiac excursions, hiking, and polar exploration as seamless as possible.
Each guest is assigned a locker based on their cabin number, providing a designated space to keep wet-weather gear, boots, and expedition jackets dry and organised.
Instead of bringing bulky layers back to the cabin, everything stays in the mudroom, ensuring that the rooms remain clean, dry, and free from clutter.
The mud room is where you get ready before an excursion, and where you can leave your wet gear.
The Outdoor Decks
Spending time on the Sylvia Earle’s outdoor decks is one of the best ways to experience the raw beauty of the Falklands, South Georgia, and Antarctica.
Whether watching icebergs drift by, scanning the horizon for wildlife, or feeling the crisp polar air after a day’s excursion, the ship offers plenty of well-designed open-air spaces that ensure guests are never far from the action.
The largest and most impressive outdoor deck is located on Deck 8, positioned high above the waterline for uninterrupted, wide-angle views.
This is one of the best spots on the ship for wildlife spotting, whether it’s seabirds soaring overhead, whales surfacing in the distance, or towering icebergs floating past.
The deck wraps around the Observation Lounge, allowing guests to step outside quickly during a lecture or coffee break when an unexpected wildlife sighting is announced.
The open layout ensures there’s plenty of space to move around, with railings positioned at the right height for photographers to set up their cameras without obstructions.
Jarryd admiring the view from the Observation Deck.
Deck 7 – The Jacuzzis with a View
On Deck 7 guests will find two outdoor Jacuzzis and a swimming pool, offering a unique way to enjoy the landscapes.
This is one of the most popular relaxation spots on the ship, especially after a cold Zodiac excursion or an early morning landing.
Watching glaciers, mountains, and seabirds from a bubbling hot tub is a true expedition luxury.
A jacuzzi with a view – not a bad place to look at the king penguins of South Georgia.
Decks 4 and 6 – The Most Accessible Viewing Areas from Your Cabins
For those wanting quick access to an outdoor deck, the stern at Deck 6 and sides of deck 4 provide an easily reachable space for casual wildlife spotting or taking in the fresh air.
Deck 4 is particularly good for wildlife photography, offering a lower perspective closer to the water.
Watching out for seabirds on the stern of Deck 6.
The Sylvia Earle Experience
A great expedition ship isn’t just about where it goes – it’s about how it feels to be onboard.
The Sylvia Earle is designed for luxury adventure, but what sets it apart is how seamlessly it balances exploration with comfort.
From the moment we stepped aboard in Ushuaia the ship felt spacious, modern, and thoughtfully built for expedition cruising.
Moving between outdoor decks, lounges, the lecture theatre, and dining areas was effortless, creating an environment that felt intimate yet open.
With a maximum of 130 passengers there was always space to spread out, even on sea days when everyone was moving around onboard.
Daily life on the Sylvia Earle revolves around wildlife encounters, Zodiac excursions, and expert-led lectures, but the time in between is just as memorable.
Mornings often started with a coffee in the Observation Lounge, watching the first light hit the ice-covered peaks of the Antarctic Peninsula.
After excursions the sauna and Jacuzzis provided the perfect place to warm up, and evenings brought lively conversations in the Tektite Bar, where passengers and expedition guides swapped stories from the day and real life back home.
What truly defines the Sylvia Earle experience is the expedition team. Every lecture, briefing, and shore landing is led by world-class naturalists, historians, and wildlife experts, adding depth and meaning to every moment.
Their passion and knowledge transformed the voyage into something much more than just a scenic cruise.
In this section we’ll take a closer look at daily routines, onboard atmosphere, expedition logistics, and what makes life aboard the Sylvia Earle a truly immersive experience.
The Sylvia Earle at Cuverville Island.
Embarkation Process
Boarding the Sylvia Earle is a seamless and well-organised process, ensuring guests start their expedition stress-free.
For most Antarctic voyages, embarkation takes place in Ushuaia, Argentina, where guests meet at a designated hotel or transfer point.
Expedition staff handle check-in and luggage, and your bags are delivered directly to your cabin.
At the port you are driven straight to the ship by bus and crew members welcome guests at the gangway before escorting them to reception on Deck 5 for key cards and cabin assignments.
A mandatory safety briefing and lifeboat drill follows in the Lecture Theatre, where the expedition team introduces the crew and outlines the journey ahead.
Once formalities are complete guests gather on Deck 8 or in the Observation Lounge for a welcome toast, watching as Ushuaia disappears and the voyage officially begins.
With everything handled smoothly, embarkation sets the perfect tone for the adventure ahead.
Our might vessel in the Falkland Islands.
The Dining Experience
Expedition cruising might take you to some of the most remote places on Earth, but the Sylvia Earle’s dining experience ensures that every meal remains a highlight of the journey.
With two onboard restaurants, Gentoo and Rockhopper, the ship offers a diverse and well-balanced menu, carefully crafted to keep guests nourished, satisfied, and ready for adventure.
Food quality aboard the Sylvia Earle is exceptional, especially considering the logistical challenges of storing and sourcing fresh ingredients when travelling to the polar regions.
Meals are prepared with an emphasis on healthy produce, high-quality proteins, and international flavours, creating a dining experience that feels more like a boutique hotel than an expedition vessel.
The variety is impressive, catering to different tastes and dietary requirements without feeling repetitive, even on extended voyages.
At the Gentoo Restaurant guests can enjoy buffet-style breakfasts and lunches, featuring fresh fruits, hot dishes, pastries, salads, and daily chef specials.
Dinners are served à la carte, offering a mix of meat, seafood, and vegetarian options, along with a selection of house wines, beers, and soft drinks included with the meal.
For those looking for something more intimate, the Rockhopper Restaurant provides a specialty dining experience in a steakhouse-style setting.
Available by reservation, this venue serves premium cuts of meat, gourmet seafood dishes, and indulgent desserts, all in a smaller, more exclusive environment.
Beyond the meals themselves, the overall dining atmosphere is warm and welcoming. Floor-to-ceiling windows in both restaurants ensure that every meal comes with a spectacular view, whether sailing past ice-cloaked mountains in Antarctica or the rugged shorelines of South Georgia.
Service is friendly and efficient, with staff ensuring that meals are delivered smoothly, even during rough seas.
The food is divine onboard!
Zodiac Operations
Zodiac excursions are the core of any expedition aboard the Sylvia Earle, allowing guests to get up close to wildlife, step onto remote shorelines, and explore towering ice formations.
Designed for efficiency and safety, the ship’s boarding and disembarkation process ensures that every landing runs smoothly, maximising time ashore.
Unloading the Zodiacs is quick and safe thanks to the well-designed crane and deck system.
Boarding the Zodiacs
Everything starts in the mudroom on Deck 3, where guests gear up and prepare for the excursion.
Each person has an assigned locker for waterproof boots, jackets, and wet-weather gear, making it easy to transition from the warmth of the ship to the harsh polar elements.
When ready, guests step onto a sanitised boot-wash station before proceeding to the loading area.
The Sylvia Earle is built for quick and safe Zodiac operations, with 3 points of disembarkation that can be used depending on sea or weather conditions, and what activities are scheduled.
At the stern there is a dedicated boarding platform that sits just above the waterline, normally used by kayakers, but occasionally in operation for Zodiacs.
This long, wide platform allows for loading two Zodiacs at one time with minimal steps involved.
The Marina Deck at the stern is utilised to load and unload kayakers or Zodiacs,
The main Zodiac loading stations are found on either port or starboard, where you walk down some interior stairs (comfortably out of the elements) until you reach the same level as the top of the Zodiac pontoons.
In this way you step easily from the ship to the tender, without having to navigate a slippery gangway.
Expedition crew assist every step of the way, ensuring a steady handoff as guests move from the gangway onto the inflatable boats.
The process is well-practiced, with guides using the “sailor’s grip” to help guests step in and take their seats safely.
Even in rough conditions the design of the ship and the expertise of the crew make getting on and off the Zodiacs as smooth as possible.
The side gates are usually used to get passengers in and out of Zodiacs.
Exploring by Zodiac
Once away from the ship Zodiac excursions offer a front-row seat to Antarctica’s wildlife and landscapes.
Some outings involve scenic cruising, gliding past icebergs or watching whales up close, while others are wet landings, where guests step directly onto shore to explore.
The expedition team always ensures that time ashore is maximised, balancing adventure with strict environmental guidelines to minimise impact.
A beautiful leopard seal we spotted on the ice during a Zodiac cruise.
Returning to the Ship
Back at the Sylvia Earle, guests follow the same process in reverse. Zodiacs pull up to the loading platform, where guides assist with stepping back onboard.
Before heading inside boots and outer layers are cleaned at designated wash stations, preventing mud, snow, and bio-contaminants from being tracked into the ship.
Heading back to the ship.
Innovative Design Elements
The Sylvia Earle is equipped with several innovative design elements that enhance both performance and passenger comfort.
One of the most notable features is the Ulstein X-BOW design, which improves fuel efficiency and provides a smoother ride through waves.
This inverted bow design reduces noise and enhances the overall travel experience, particularly during rough seas.
Further enhancing the comfort on ocean passages, the Sylvia Earle is equipped with two stabilisers which steady the rolling motion in rough seas.
Another significant innovation is the virtual anchoring technology, which minimises environmental impact by protecting the sea floor.
The ship also features a Glass Atrium Lounge with expansive windows, offering panoramic views and a serene environment for relaxation.
These design elements showcase the Sylvia Earle’s commitment to combining cutting-edge technology with sustainable travel practices.
Looking down the X-Bow in the Lemaire Channel.
Ulstein X-BOW® – A Smoother, More Efficient Ride
One of the Sylvia Earle’s most defining features is its Ulstein X-BOW, a cutting-edge hull design that enhances stability, efficiency, and passenger comfort while navigating rough seas.
Unlike traditional ship bows, which rise and crash over waves, the X-BOW is inverted, allowing the ship to cut through swells rather than slam into them.
This design significantly reduces vertical movement and hull slamming, making a noticeable difference during ocean crossings, especially in challenging waters like the Drake Passage where we encountered 6m waves.
Passengers experience less motion and fewer abrupt impacts, leading to a more comfortable ride with reduced seasickness compared to conventional expedition ships.
Beyond comfort, the X-BOW also improves fuel efficiency and minimises environmental impact.
By reducing resistance through the water the ship consumes less energy, helping Aurora Expeditions maintain its commitment to sustainable travel.
The bow’s streamlined shape also enhances ice navigation, allowing the Sylvia Earle to glide more smoothly through polar waters.
For anyone concerned about rough seas, the X-BOW makes a real difference. The smoother ride, combined with the ship’s stabilisers and expert crew, ensures that passengers can enjoy the journey without being at the mercy of unpredictable ocean conditions.
One thing to note however is that the X-BOW is a fairly new design, and as such lacks the centuries’ of open-ocean testing that traditional bows have had.
Whether this unique design becomes popular across the polar fleet will become obvious in the following years.
The Sylvia Earle is designed with sustainability at its core, incorporating a range of eco-friendly practices and initiatives to minimise its environmental footprint.
This state-of-the-art vessel features a low-polluting marine engine and a streamlined design that significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions, making it one of the most environmentally conscious ships in its class.
Onboard, the Sylvia Earle implements a comprehensive recycling program and has banned single-use plastics, ensuring that waste is minimised and managed responsibly.
The ship’s commitment to sustainability extends to its partnerships with various conservation organisations, promoting the protection of marine protected areas and the conservation of ocean wildlife.
The expedition team aboard the Sylvia Earle is dedicated to responsible and sustainable tourism practices.
They ensure that all activities and excursions are conducted in a way that minimises environmental impact and adheres to local regulations.
This commitment to sustainability not only enhances the travel experience but also contributes to the preservation of the pristine polar regions for future generations.
Alesha doing her part to biosecure all gear before we head to South Georgia and Antarctica.
Accessibility Features for All Travellers
The Sylvia Earle is thoughtfully designed to be accessible to all travellers, regardless of age or ability.
The ship features an elevator that serves all six guest decks, making it easy for everyone to move around the vessel.
Wheelchair-accessible cabins and public areas ensure that all guests can enjoy the ship’s amenities comfortably.
The observation lounge and glass atrium lounge are designed with accessibility in mind, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes from a comfortable and inclusive setting.
The staterooms feature French balconies, providing guests with a private outdoor space to take in the breathtaking scenery in peace and quiet.
The wellness centre on the Sylvia Earle offers a range of treatments and activities, including yoga and meditation classes, to promote relaxation and well-being.
These features ensure that all guests, regardless of their physical abilities, can fully enjoy their expedition experience.
The Sylvia Earle at Kidney Cove in the Falklands.
Itineraries and Destinations
The Sylvia Earle offers a variety of itineraries that take travellers to some of the most remote and awe-inspiring destinations on the planet.
Popular routes include voyages to the Antarctic Peninsula and South Georgia, where guests can witness vast penguin colonies, majestic whales, and towering icebergs.
Unique destinations in the Arctic Circle offer opportunities to explore the pristine landscapes of Greenland, Svalbard, and the Canadian Arctic, with activities such as kayaking, camping, and mountaineering providing immersive experiences.
The Lemaire Channel – a true highlight of any journey to the Antarctic Peninsula.
Adventure Activities – Camping, Kayaking, Paddling, and Snorkelling in the Polar Regions
Expedition cruising with Aurora isn’t just about stepping onto your 7th continent; there’s a whole other world to explore by getting out onto the water for a more immersive experience.
Aboard the Sylvia Earle guests have the opportunity to explore Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falklands from a whole new perspective, with a selection of off-ship activities that take the adventure to the next level.
Some of the additional activities on offer are their sea kayaking program, day paddle excursions and the unique snorkelling experience.
Important Note – Due to the popularity of these programs, they do need to be pre-booked when you first reserve your cabin.
Camping – A Night on the Ice
For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the polar experience, the Sylvia Earle offers Antarctic camping excursions early in the season that allows guests to spend a night sleeping on the snow.
This activity provides a rare opportunity to experience Antarctica in complete silence, surrounded by towering glaciers, star-filled skies, and the distant sounds of calving ice or penguins shuffling in the distance.
Guests are provided with specialised gear, including thermal sleeping bags and bivy sacks, designed to keep warm in the extreme conditions.
There are no tents, allowing for an authentic, open-air experience, much like the early explorers who camped on the continent over a century ago.
With strict environmental guidelines in place, the camping experience is low-impact and carefully managed by the expedition team, ensuring that nothing is left behind.
Waking up on the Antarctic ice, with the first light of day illuminating the untouched landscape, is a memory that stays with you forever.
We didn’t camp with Aurora Expeditions on our recent voyage, so here’s a photo of the golden light experienced from another camping trip earlier in the same season.
Sea Kayaking – The Ultimate Polar Adventure
For those wanting to experience the silence and serenity of the polar regions from water level, the sea kayaking program is one of the most rewarding activities available.
Limited to a small group of experienced paddlers, this program runs throughout the voyage with kayakers launching whenever conditions allow.
Paddling through calm waters, weaving between icebergs, and watching wildlife from just meters away is an experience unlike any other.
The kayaking guides are highly experienced in polar conditions, ensuring safety at all times while still allowing for flexibility and adventure.
Guests who opt into this activity will receive specialist gear, including a drysuit, paddling mitts, and a spray skirt, making it possible to stay warm and comfortable even in freezing waters.
Kayakers out and about in Godthul, South Georgia.
Day Paddle – A One-Time Kayaking Experience
For those who want to try kayaking but aren’t ready to commit to the full program, the Day Paddle option provides a perfect introduction.
Unlike the dedicated sea kayaking program, which runs throughout the voyage, the Day Paddle is a one-time excursion available to a larger number of guests.
It’s an excellent way to experience the magic of paddling in polar waters without needing prior experience.
The activity will take place in a calm, sheltered location, ensuring that even first-time kayakers feel confident on the water.
Using stable, inflatable sit-on-top kayaks, participants are able to get out among the ice floes and wildlife in a way that simply isn’t possible from a Zodiac or the ship.
The experience is gentle, accessible, and unforgettable, offering a quiet, personal moment in the vast polar wilderness.
Sea Kayaking vs Day Paddle – Which One is Right for You?
This is a very common question we get, and it really comes down to what you want to get out of your time down in the polar regions.
If you love kayaking and want to get away from the crowds a bit, we recommend signing up for the sea kayaking program.
With this you’ll be out paddling at every possible moment, which leads to truly memorable wildlife and landscape encounters.
The downside is though that you get less time ashore (you still go to land on a lot of excursions though), don’t really take part in zodiac cruises unless the kayaking gets cancelled, and the photo opportunities are more difficult due to most people decided not to bring out their big cameras for risk of dropping them in the ocean.
The day paddle program is perfect for those who want to try to kayaking once for the experience, but would rather be part of the rest of the expedition.
In short:
If you are diehard kayaker and love unique adventures, go for the sea kayaking program.
If you just want to try kayaking in Antarctica once, but in general would prefer to focus on photography and have more time ashore and in zodiacs, go for the day paddle program.
Personally we prefer day paddle.
If you love being on the water, the sea kayaking or day paddle programs are a worthy addition to your Antarctic adventures.
Polar Snorkelling – A Unique View Beneath the Ice
Snorkelling in Antarctica, South Georgia, or the Falklands might sound extreme, but with specialised gear and expert guides, it’s an incredible way to see a side of the polar regions that few ever witness.
Equipped with a specialist dry suit, gloves, hood, and fins, guests have the chance to float among sculpted ice formations, observe marine life up close, and even spot seals swimming below the surface.
Polar snorkelling is best suited for adventurous travellers who are comfortable in cold water, but the gear provided ensures warmth and buoyancy, making it more accessible than most would expect.
The experience of floating in crystal-clear, icy waters, looking up at towering glaciers from below the surface, or coming face-to-face with curious seals is truly one-of-a-kind.
Most snorkel excursions only last between 20 and 30 minutes, meaning you’ll then get a chance to enjoy a zodiac cruise or go to shore afterwards.
We didn’t go snorkelling on this trip as it was already fully booked, but if you want to play in the water there’s always the pool?
Crew and Guide Expertise
A great expedition isn’t just defined by the ship design, amenities, or destinations. It’s the people onboard who truly make the experience unforgettable.
From the expedition leaders and Zodiac drivers to the hotel staff, restaurant servers, and crew running the ship behind the scenes, every member of the Sylvia Earle team plays a role in making each voyage smooth, exciting, and deeply rewarding.
Expedition Team – Passionate Experts Who Bring the Journey to Life
The Sylvia Earle’s expedition team is made up of highly skilled naturalists, marine biologists, historians, geologists, and polar experts who are not only incredibly knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about what they do.
Every day they lead Zodiac excursions, landings, and onboard lectures, sharing insights that make each stop more meaningful.
Their ability to spot wildlife, explain complex ecosystems, and bring historical events to life is what transforms the trip from simply seeing the polar regions to understanding them on a deeper level.
What stands out most is their approachability and enthusiasm. There’s never a sense of formal distance between guests and guides.
Instead, the expedition team is always available for questions, stories, and casual conversations in the lounge, on deck, or at dinner.
They genuinely love what they do, and that energy is infectious. If it wasn’t for a fantastic guides that Aurora Expeditions manages to have on their team, the entire polar experience would not be nearly as excellent.
Dr Leo was wealth of knowledge as one of the expedition guides and marine biologists onboard.
Hotel and Restaurant Staff – Warm, Friendly, and Always Ready to Help
From the moment guests step onboard the hotel and restaurant staff make sure every need is met with a smile.
Service aboard the Sylvia Earle is seamless, friendly, and personalised, striking a perfect balance between professionalism and warmth.
Cabins are kept spotless, with staff working quietly in the background to ensure everything is clean, comfortable, and refreshed each day.
Restaurant servers go out of their way to remember names and dietary preferences, recommend dishes, and create a welcoming dining atmosphere, even during rough seas.
The bartenders at the Tektite and Observation Bars quickly learn guests’ favourite drinks, adding an extra touch of hospitality that makes returning from an excursion feel even more like coming home.
The small size of the ship allows for a more personal level of service, where guests aren’t just another face in the crowd.
There’s a genuine effort to create a warm, welcoming environment, and it’s evident that the staff take pride in making every voyage special.
The restaurant staff are some of the best in the industry.
Ship Crew – The Unseen Heroes Who Keep Everything Running
While much of the guest experience happens in the lounges, dining areas, and out on excursions, the Sylvia Earle’s ship crew is working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure a safe, smooth, and efficient journey.
From the captain and bridge officers navigating through ever-changing ice conditions to the engineers and deckhands keeping the vessel running flawlessly, their expertise is what allows the expedition to unfold without a hitch.
Throughout the voyage the captain and senior officers are around, often found in the dining room for meals or giving updates from the bridge.
The sense of professionalism, combined with an obvious passion for exploration, creates an environment where guests feel both safe and part of something truly special.
The officers of the Sylvia Earle.
Room for Improvement?
The Sylvia Earle is clearly a well-designed, high-quality expedition ship, but based on our first expedition aboard, there are a few areas that have room for improvement or refinement.
In our experience having worked and travelled on multiple expedition ships across the polar regions and tropics, we found that the small number of things we found were more to do with basic operations rather than anything to do with the ship itself.
These aren’t deal-breakers, but they are aspects that could be optimised to enhance the overall experience.
The Spa and Sauna
We’ve already touched on this previously, but the spa and sauna feel like more of an afterthought on the Sylvia Earle compared to other ships we’ve been on.
The gym is absolutely fantastic, but the sauna and spa could have been better designed. Although perhaps this aspect of the cruise isn’t as big a priority as they are on other ships?
Mud Room Groups
The mud room setup is efficient, but the way the guests are called down can cause congestion.
On every other expedition vessel we’ve been on previously, guests are split up into groups, being called down in a rotating order.
On the Sylvia Earle the guests are called down by decks and which side of the ship their cabin is on.
This sounds great in theory, except the lockers in the mud room are grouped together in this same way.
The result is that you get everyone from deck 6 starboard for example in the same part of the mud room at the exact same time trying to get dressed, while the rest of the mud room is empty.
This is a simple fix and we’re sure there is a reason that it is done this way. But we’ve found the other loading methods on most ships to be more efficient.
The Marina Deck.
Expanded Rockhopper Restaurant Availability
The Rockhopper Restaurant offers an intimate, high-end dining experience, but access is limited and requires reservations.
This is definitely part of the appeal, but we discovered that there were quite a few guests who would book this restaurant every single night rather than choose to eat in the Gentoo Restaurant, which meant that on most evenings it is fully booked with the same people.
Perhaps a rotating roster for guests to be automatically booked in, with the choice to opt-out if they choose, would result in more possibilities for other guests to experience this restaurant.
Not Much Evening Entertainment
On all of the other ships we’ve worked on there is usually some form of evening entertainment on offer after dinner, whether that’s a music night, trivia, bar talks from the guides or fun games.
We found on our expedition that throughout our entire 23-day voyage there was only 3 nights of entertainment, and this was from the same guide reading chapters from his book.
Not to take anything away from that one guide – his book is amazing and he is a very funny presenter. We loved this evening talks.
But besides his three sessions, most other nights when dinner was over there was nothing for the guests to do except go to the bar.
And because there was no entertainment, most guests just went to bed instead.
Personally we would have liked to see some kind of post-dinner entertainment on most evenings, even if it was just for 20 minutes.
Another shot of the library.
Final Thoughts on the Sylvia Earle – 9/10 Expedition Ship
The Sylvia Earle delivers an exceptional expedition experience, combining cutting-edge technology, thoughtful design, and expert-led adventures to create a ship that feels purpose-built for exploration.
From the stability of the X-BOW to the efficiency of the Zodiac operations, everything is designed to maximise time in the field while ensuring comfort onboard.
The spacious cabins, high-quality dining, inviting communal areas, and well-organised expedition logistics make life onboard feel seamless, even in the most remote regions.
What truly sets this ship apart though is the crew and expedition team, whose passion and expertise bring the journey to life.
Every detail, from the knowledge shared in the Lecture Theatre to the warm service in the dining rooms, enhances the experience.
For those looking for a premium yet adventurous expedition to the polar regions, the Sylvia Earle is a standout choice, delivering unforgettable moments at the edge of the world.
What kind of cabins are available on the Sylvia Earle?
The Sylvia Earle features a variety of cabin types, including Balcony Staterooms for solo travelers, Junior Suites with private balconies, and the luxurious Captain’s Suite. Each option is designed to enhance your cruising experience.
What dining options are available on the Sylvia Earle?
The Sylvia Earle offers two main dining venues: the Gentoo Restaurant for buffet-style meals and the Rockhopper Restaurant for steakhouse dinners, both providing diverse dishes to accommodate various dietary preferences.
How does the Sylvia Earle handle zodiac operations?
The Sylvia Earle efficiently handles zodiac operations with two cranes for quick deployment and gangways on both sides for easy loading and unloading. Additionally, the marina deck accommodates Zodiacs and kayaks, enhancing operational efficiency.
What kind of activities can passengers participate in on the Sylvia Earle?
Passengers on the Sylvia Earle can participate in camping, kayaking, snorkelling, hiking, guided Zodiac tours, and educational presentations by naturalists. These activities provide a rich opportunity for exploration and learning.
What makes the Sylvia Earle a unique expedition ship?
The Sylvia Earle is unique due to its eco-friendly operations and innovative design, featuring the Ulstein X-BOW®, which allows for safer and more comfortable navigation in challenging waters. Its spacious cabins, modern amenities, and focus on immersive educational experiences make it an exceptional choice for expedition cruising.
Sylvia Earle Ship Review
This Sylvia Earle ship review gives you a full rundown on the key features and onboard experiences on this luxury vessel by Aurora Expeditions.
If you’re anything like me, learning a new language can feel both exciting and a bit overwhelming.
That’s where FluenDay comes in. I’ve been testing it out for a few weeks, and while it’s not perfect right now, it does offer a fresh approach with its focus on real-world context.
You can dip into short video Clips, follow structured Courses, or even chat with an AI Tutor. Luckily there’s also a mix of eBooks and games to keep things interesting.
Whether you’re planning a trip, needing a new skill for work, or just want to expand your horizons, FluenDay has some useful tools to help you get there.
My FluenDay Review
Learning a new language can be a wild ride – sometimes it’s thrilling, sometimes downright confusing. So, when I came across FluenDay, I was curious to see if it could actually make the process a bit more fun and less of a chore. Spoiler alert! It’s got some cool features, but like any app, it’s not without its quirks.
FluenDay is a language learning app that covers Spanish, French, German, and English speakers. You can use it on your phone (available on Google Play and the App Store) or on the website if you prefer a bigger screen.
With a solid 4.8 rating and 42,000 reviews on Google Play, it’s clear people are liking what FluenDay has to offer. The app focuses on teaching language in context, which is a fancy way of saying you’ll learn how to speak like real people do in real-life situations – not just memorize vocabulary lists.
What’s Included in FluenDay?
When you sign up for FluenDay, you get access to a pretty impressive range of features designed to make language learning as engaging and flexible as possible. Here’s what’s included:
All Languages: No need to pick just one – your membership gives you access to all the languages FluenDay offers. Feel free to dabble in Spanish, French, German and English as much as you want.
All Courses: Progress at your own pace with bite-sized lessons that help you build up your vocabulary and grammar skills step by step.
All Movie Clips: Dive into over 3,000 clips from movies and TV shows, giving you a real-world feel for how languages are used by native speakers.
AI Tutor: Practice speaking in real-life scenarios with the AI Tutor, which gives you personalized feedback to help you improve.
All Games: Learn while having fun with mini-games that reinforce key language concepts like vocabulary and grammar.
All eBooks: Access a selection of popular classics in both text and audio formats, perfect for reading or listening at your own level.
The Features
FluenDay has four main sections: Clips, Courses, an AI Tutor, as well as eBooks and Games. I’ll break them down for you:
FluenDay – Clips
This is hands down my favorite part of FluenDay. The Clips section is packed with over 3,000 short clips from movies and TV shows, which makes learning feel more like binging Netflix than studying. The clips come with context notes, so you’re not just learning what the words mean, but also how they’re used in different situations. Plus, at the end of each lesson, there’s a quick dialogue session where you can try out what you’ve learned. It’s a pretty cool way to practice without feeling like you’re practicing.
FluenDay – Courses
The Courses are where you’ll find more traditional lessons, but they’re still pretty bite-sized and manageable. They walk you through vocabulary and grammar, and if you’re learning English, there’s an AI presenter that reads your answers back to you, which helps with pronunciation. They’ve got flashcards, quizzes, and extra exercises to reinforce what you’ve learned, but if you’re after French or Spanish, you’ll have to wait a bit longer for the AI presenter feature.
FluenDay – AI Tutor
If you’re learning English, the AI Tutor is like having your own personal language partner – minus the awkwardness of talking to a real person. It lets you practice specific dialogues and then gives you feedback on how you did, with tips on how to improve. It’s a cool idea, but right now, it’s only available for English learners. They say more languages are coming, so fingers crossed!
FluenDay – eBooks and Games
This section is where you can indulge your inner bookworm or gamer. There’s a selection of popular classics in their original language, with both text and audio formats. The built-in dictionary is handy for tricky words, and you can save words to review later. The mini-games are fun and are a nice way to reinforce what you’ve learned without feeling like you’re hitting the books.
How Much Does FluenDay Cost?
FluenDay offers a few different subscription options, so you can pick what works best for your budget and commitment level. Here’s the breakdown:
Monthly Plan: $9.99, billed every month. This is great if you’re just testing the waters, but keep in mind you’ll be paying more in the long run.
Annual Plan: Currently 50% off at $49.99, billed once a year after a 7-day free trial. This is a solid choice if you’re planning to stick with it for a while, and it’s easier on the wallet than the monthly plan.
6-Year Plan: $71.99, one-time payment for six years. This is hands down the best value if you’re in it for the long haul. You pay once, and you’re set for six years—basically locking in a super low rate.
Whether you’re committing for the short term or the long run, there’s an option that’ll fit your needs.
Can I Get a Refund?
If you change your mind after purchasing FluenDay, you’re in luck—there’s a 7-day no-questions-asked money-back guarantee for purchases made through the website. This gives you a full week to decide if FluenDay is right for you.
For in-app purchases, the process is a bit different. You’ll need to check out the help section “How do I request a refund?” for specific instructions.
And if you run into any issues or have questions, you can always reach out to their customer support team at support@fluenday.com.
Final Thoughts
Overall, FluenDay is a fun app to use, and I enjoy it as an alternative to the more traditional methods of language learning.
The Clips feature alone makes it worth checking out, in my opinion. It’s not perfect, though no app is, however I’m excited to see how it grows and what new features they roll out. If you’re looking for a fresh way to learn a language, FluenDay might just be what you need to get started.
Wanna travel to Chechnya with Against the Compass?
Join a group of like-minded travelers in our next scheduled tour in Chechnya on:
April 14th to 21st, 2026
Chechnya is a republic in the North Caucasus that forms part of the Russian Federation.
Infamous for its agitated past, few know about its stunning mountains, its warm hospitality, and that it has become one of the most modern regions in the Caucasus.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about traveling to Chechnya, including cultural etiquette, permits, how to get in, where to stay, things to do, and more.
Chechens were always a proud and fierce group of people living in the remote mountain areas of today’s South Chechnya, feared by the Tsars who conquered them in the 19th century, as well as by Stalin, and modern Russians.
During WWII, Stalin began an ethnic cleansing campaign that consisted of the mass, forced deportations of Chechens into Kazakhstan, and they weren’t allowed to return until 1957, following Stalin’s death. However, their social exclusion continued until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.
Unlike other Caucasian countries such as Georgia, Armenia or Azerbaijan, Chechnya was unable to become an independent country because it already formed part of the Russian Federation before the Soviet Union was created.
This is Grozny, one of the most surprising things to see in Chechnya
Decades of being excluded from the rest of Russia – fueled by their strong identity – led to the self-declarion of independence from Russia, resulting in the first Chechen war, from 1994 to 1996.
The war ended with Russia’s victory, although they were never able to fully control the ongoing rebellion, hence a second war began from 1999 to 2009.
These two wars saw a toll of 250,000 deaths, but after 2009 a peace agreement allowed Chechnya to enter a new era under the rule of a controversial but pragmatic leader named Kadyrov, initially a pro-independence revolutionary but later a close ally to Putin.
Kadyrov is the man chosen by Putin to control Chechnya by keeping it free from any separatist movements. In exchange, Chechnya receives big chunks of federal investment and Kadyrov can rule the republic as he sees fit, acting like almost a dictator.
This is a very brief summary of today’s Chechnya.
Chechnya was practically destroyed during the two wars but it was entirely reconstructed. When you travel there, you’ll realize that from an infrastructure perspective, Chechnya is an advanced region as per regional standards, but Chechens have never lost the strong identity that defines them.
Beautiful road in southern Chechnya
Cultural Etiquette: what to expect when you travel in Chechnya
Chechnya is a surprising destination indeed.
Despite being part of the Russian Federation since 1858, this small country is a completely different world from anywhere you might have been in Russia, or any other Caucasus country.
First of all, Chechnya is a Muslim country but, unlike in other former Soviet Muslim nations, religion plays a big role in Chechens’ daily lives.
Men can’t wear shorts
This also translates into strict rules that may affect you as a traveler. For example, wearing shorts in public is strictly forbidden, a rule you will see announced in pretty much any public space, most likely as a warning to all the Russians from Moscow who come for a visit.
No alcohol in Chechnya
Moreover, Chechnya is a near-dry country with only one or two places in Grozny (top-notch hotels) serving alcohol. This is something I wasn’t expecting to experience in a country like Russia.
A homogenous society
After visiting Chechnya, I found it easy for me to recognize Chechens in Moscow, not only because of their facial features but also because they all share a particular style.
Men trim their beards just like Kadyrov does long beards with no mustache. It was pretty intriguing to walk along the main boulevard in Grozny and notice that pretty much all Chechen men looked like Kadyrov.
Most women dress similarly as well. They all wear a long, colourful dress with long trousers underneath, without exception. The vast majority wear a hijab too.
Chechnya has managed to keep a very strong identity, which I for one find truly fascinating.
Yes, you can. Chechnya is part of the Russian Federation, therefore any traveler visiting Chechnya will need a Russian visa.
For more information, check the visa section of our travel guide to Russia.
Permits for visiting Chechnya
Do you need any special permit to travel around Chechnya?
No, you don’t, not even in the areas near the border with Georgia.
However, remember that you do need a permit to visit South Ingushetia – travelers tend to cover both republics in one trip.
By the way, Ingushetia is a different republic from Chechnya, but Ingushetians are ethnically and culturally the same as Chechens. They were simply split into 2 different republics in an attempt to divide their society.
You need a permit to visit the border areas, and you’ll also require the help of a local guide and tour operator. It takes one full month for the permit to be issued so if you’re interested in visiting that part of North Caucasus, plan accordingly.
Tours of Chechnya
Traveling around Chechnya and North Caucasus requires complicated logistics, not only in terms of transportation but also because a knowledgeable local guide will always come in handy.
At Against the Compass, we offer one expedition that combines not only Chechnya but also Ingushetia, Dagestan and North Ossetia.
Grozny – the capital of Chechnya – has an international airport (GRV). To be honest, it’s a very small airport with few international flights, but there are some flights from Istanbul, Jeddah and Dubai.
However, Grozny has several daily connections with Moscow.
Alternatively, you can also fly to the nearby airports of Makhachkala (Dagestan) and Vladikavkaz (North Ossetia).
For more information on how to book flights, read the Getting in section of our travel tips for Russia.
How to travel to Chechnya by train
Grozny has a train station with direct trains from Moscow and many other cities in Russia. Keep in mind however, that the journey from Moscow to Grozny takes more than 1 day.
I personally entered Russia from West Kazakhstan into Astrakhan, from where I took a night train to Makhachkala. From Makhachkala, I entered Chechnya by car through the mountains, but there’s a train connecting both cities as well.
For more information on how to book trains, read the Getting in section of our travel tips for Russia.
How to get around Chechnya
Chechnya isn’t great in terms of public transportation.
I mean, you can easily get to Grozny by train and travel between the different towns and cities by minibus, but it’s very difficult to visit the southern part of the republic, since that’s a barely populated area of the Caucasus.
Hitchhiking, however, should be easy, and it’s something the local people do all the time. It can be quite an adventure too, time allowing.
A 4WD is also necessary to visit the remotest and most stunning parts of Chechnya.
Road you will have to travel in South Chechnya
Best time to visit Chechnya
Generally speaking, the best time to visit Chechnya is from June to September.
That’s the best season to visit the mountains as well as for trekking.
However, since Grozny is located in the lowlands, it can get overwhelmingly hot in the summer months, and the same goes for pretty much any other city in North Caucasus.
Honestly, if you aren’t planning to do any particular hikes, I’d say that April-May and October-November are the two best times to visit Chechnya, since the weather in the cities will be pleasant.
Where to stay in Chechnya
Where to stay in Grozny
Grozny has plenty of hotels. I personally stayed at Central City Hotel Grozny, a newly built, small hotel located in the center.
If you want something a bit fancier, check out Grozny City Hotel, located in one of the tallest buildings in Chechnya.
Where to stay in other parts of Chechnya
In South Chechnya, near Itum-Kale, you can stay at Edelweiss Hotel, which is very close to the Tusheti region of Georgia.
I also stayed at Kezenoy, a mountain lake in east Chechnya. While it’s true that the lake is nothing spectacular, you’re likely to stop off here on your way from Dagestan. There’s a government-run hotel called Kezenoy-Am Hotel.
When it comes to cities in the North Caucasus, Grozny is my favorite, but only because it’s something you would never expect, not only because of its unique identity but also because some areas are more like Dubai than to anywhere else in Russia.
Besides strolling around the city center and along the main boulevard, where Chechens all hang out, I recommend taking a Yandex to Argun, the most newly reconstructed area in probably all of the Caucasus.
I recommend to spend 1 or 2 nights here in Grozny.
Grozny’s most visited mosque, one of the best places to visit in Chechnya
Day 2 – Galanchozh, Tsoy Pede and Veduchi
This was my favorite part in the whole of Chechnya, home to utterly jaw-dropping landscapes.
You will need a 4WD, however, since the roads here are really rough.
It’s actually possible to reach Veduchi – the final destination – with a normal car, but then you’ll be missing the highlights found on the road that runs parallel to the Republic of Ingushetia. Please, check the above map for reference.
At the end of the mountain road, you will come to Tsoy Pede, a Caucasus necropolis built in the 13th century, consisting of several crypts built on the top of a hill, and where you can still see human remains.
Next, I recommend heading to Veduchi, where you can stay at a decent hotel named Edelweiss.
Day 3 – Sharoi, Kezenoy-am and Khoi
From Veduchi, you can travel from valley to valley along a pretty insane mountain road that will take you directly to Sharoi, a newly reconstructed Chechen mountain village that has today been turned into an open-air museum.
To be honest, I am not a big fan of these modern, soulless reconstructed places but I must admit it’s actually impressive to see.
Mountains in South Chechnya
From Sharoi, you can also travel to the next valley along another amazing mountain road that will take you to Kezenoy, a mountain lake and popular tourist spot for Chechens.
I don’t think the lake is particularly pretty, but it’s a cool place where you can see locals hanging out and spending their day over a barbecue.
In Kezenoy, you can stay in the government-run hotel called Kezenoy-Am Hotel.
The following day, I recommend continuing onwards on your journey to Dagestan.
More information:
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