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Everything Indian Tourists Need To Know For Their Antarctic Adventure

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Sunday, July 27, 2025

Antarctica is a freaky place, where gigantic sheets of ice extend to the horizon, and the stars shine brighter than anywhere else on the planet. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to watch the sun rise above the snow-capped mountains — while the penguins waddle along — and for Indian tourists fancying to travel to this frozen paradise, careful planning is of the essence. Though no visa is necessary to enter Antarctica itself, you will require various permits and tourist visas for the countries you will transit through along the way. Here’s what Indian travelers need to know before heading to Antarcticland.

No Visa for Antarctica, But Permits Are Required

While Antarctica has no official government or immigration policy, keep in mind that visitors do need to follow certain rules established in the Antarctic Treaty’s Environmental Protocol. This agreement allows travelers to secure permits in order to protect the fragile ecosystem. For the Indian travellers, these permits are normally facilitated by licensed tour operators who are members of IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators).

India is a party to the Antarctic Treaty, and India’s Indian Antarctic Act of 2022 prohibits citizens from going to the Antarctic without official permission. But when you book your journey through an IAATO-endorsed cruise company, your permits are typically covered as part of your travel package.

Visas for Countries on the Way to Antarctica

Antarctica, for its part, doesn’t have a visa, but Indian tourists need tourist visas for the countries they transit to get to the icy continent. The majority of Antarctic expeditions set off from cities in Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. Here is what you need to know about visa requirements for these popular destinations:

Argentina

Visa Required: Yes

Application: Indian citizens will need to apply for a visa in order to travel to Argentina. Visa fees: No visa fee required under the bilateral agreement between India and Argentina.

Documents: Turn-around flight or cruise tickets and financial proof.

Application Deadline: 4 weeks before the travel date.

Chile

Visa required: Yes (except for holders of a B1/B2 US visa)

How to apply: Indians can apply through Chile’s online e-visa portal.

Documents Needed: Passport, travel itinerary, and money evidence.

Visa Free: With a valid USA B1/B2 Visa, Indian citizens are eligible to enter Chile without a visa.

New Zealand

Visa Required: Yes

How to apply: Indians have to apply for a tourist visa; they can’t apply for New Zealand’s ETA.

Documents needed: Financial statements, health evidence paperwork and an itinerary.

Application Deadline: A few weeks before departing, applicants must apply online to Immigration New Zealand.

Australia

Visa Required: Visitor Visa Subclass 600

How to Apply: Apply via Australia’s Department of Home Affairs.

Documents Needed: Itinerary of travel, financial statement, and medical records. Travel insurance is often mandatory.

Application Deadline: Please apply well in advance – it can take up to 4 weeks for your application to be processed.

Other visas: Apart from these visas, if there is a transit in countries like the UAE, UK, or EU states, there is a need to check for the transit visa requirement before planning the travel.

Cruising Options – Routes to Antarctica

The majority of Antarctic trips are done by cruise, and the most common way to approach the continent is traversing the oft-heard-and-underestimated-and-oft-overstated-about Drake Passage from Ushuaia, Argentina, or Punta Arenas, Chile. The trip is a two-day journey over the frequently restless waters of the Drake Passage, which may be calm and smooth at times, in which case it is said to be “Drake Lake.”

Those who are short on time can take a flight to King George Island, some from Punta Arenas, making it a shorter way to get to Antarctica. Cruises are also offered from New Zealand and Australia, though they tend to be longer and pricier, and they visit the Ross Sea and East Antarctica.

When to go and what you’ll see

The Antarctic tourist season is typically from November to March, when temperatures are a little above freezing. It is when the region is accessible to tourists, and wildlife, including penguin chicks and seal pups, are visible. During February & March, whales are often sighted, so it’s a good time for those who are into ocean life!!

Visitors can also experience spectacular sunrises and sunbathing seals later in the season. The weather is best for exploration in the Antarctic summer, when there are fewer frequent snowstorms and milder temperatures, but it can still get pretty tough.

Antarctic Cruising Essential Packing Guide in South America

Packing for an Antarctic expedition is no small matter; the environment there is unforgivingly frigid. Here’s a summary of the things that are critical to have with you:

Thermal layers: Polypropylene and merino wool are ideal for cold weather.

Waterproof gear: Need your waterproof pants, gloves, and boots for coming onto the ice.

Motion sickness tablets: The passage of the Drake can be rough, and it’s better to be safe than stranded.

Sunscreen: Sunlight reflecting off the ice can be intense, so high-SPF sunscreen is a must.

Polarized sunglasses: To shield your eyes from the reflection of the sun on the snow.

Cruise operators usually offer heavy-duty parkas and boots for shore landings, but it is crucial to have your base layers and personal gear for comfort.

Health, Fitness, and Safety Considerations

You don’t need to be an athlete to go to Antarctica, but you do need to be of moderate fitness. Travel often involves getting in and out of small Zodiac boats for shore landings, plus walking on icy ground, so being in good physical condition will enrich your experience.

Clinics set up in the ship are limited, and in bad weather, evacuation can be delayed. That’s why you must have travel insurance that includes medical evacuation. It’s not great news for the little ones, what with cruises refusing to accept children aged 8–10 on some of them.

Conclusion: Your Antarctic Adventure Awaits

Antarctica is still one of the few untouched wilderness areas on the planet. There is no place like this on earth that can take you to a world of ice, snow, and stunning beauty. A trip to Antarctica, however, does require some preparation, from getting permits and visas to packing all the right gear, with the payoff being a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Reputed cruise operators play a significant role in ensuring that Indian tourists visit the frozen continent in comfort and take back memories that last a lifetime.

Be it the penguin colonies or the bare magnificence of the landscape, the attraction of Antarctica lies in the fact that you can embark on a journey that is nothing short of spectacular, all the way down to the world’s LAST frontier. With proper planning, your trip to Antarctica will be an adventure second to none.

(Source: Indian Ministry of External Affairs, International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), Argentina Ministry of Tourism, New Zealand Immigration, Australian Department of Home Affairs)



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Historic UK landmark is transformed into a BEACH with splash pools, live DJs & 70m rides – and it's completely free – The Sun

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Historic UK landmark is transformed into a BEACH with splash pools, live DJs & 70m rides – and it’s completely free  The Sun



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Arunachal tourism bags best adventure destination award at IITM 2025

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At the India International Travel Mart (IITM) held in Bengaluru, Arunachal Pradesh was awarded the title of Best Adventure Tourism Destination for 2025. 

The recognition came during the IITM Awards Nite, acknowledging the state’s rise as a top hub for sustainable and culturally rich adventure tourism.

The award was received in the presence of major tourism stakeholders and participants from Arunachal.

Officials credited the win to the collaborative efforts of local communities, tour operators, and the state government in promoting Arunachal Pradesh as a frontier for authentic and immersive adventure experiences.

The achievement underscores the state’s growing prominence on the national tourism map.



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14 Of The Best Travel Snacks To Fuel Your Family’s Next Adventure

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As summer break winds down, we have a few more weeks to fit in some family travel before returning to the school year. While the 4th of July is typically the most famed travel day, 83% of people said they plan to drive to their summer vacation destination, a cost-effective choice that allows for more flexibility. In fact, 54% said they will drive instead of fly due to the increasing cost of airfare, according to a survey conducted by Gas Station TV.

Whether you’re looking for something sweet, savory, healthy, or picky-eater approved, we’ve rounded up 14 tasty snacks to fuel your family’s next adventure.

1. Albanese True to Fruit Exotic Fruit Gummy Bears

Many claim to be the best fruit snack or gummy, but Alabense is far above the rest. If you follow me on social media, you’ll know that every trip, whether it’s a flight or a road trip, starts with a snack haul, and Albanese gummies are always in my cart! I remember the first time I tried them, it was on a long flight, and they instantly became my go-to snack. They’re soft, the perfect amount of gumminess, and just plain ole’ delicious!

2. Sargento Shareables Snack Tray

Sargento, known for its delicious cheese, offers a convenient solution for your on-the-go days. Simply toss a few of these snack trays in your cooler, and you’re all set for a day of adventure. Who can resist a savory cheese and cracker moment?

3. Made Good Granola Bites

These granola bites come in a convenient resealable bag, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking. I am not a huge breakfast person when I am traveling, but I like to have something. These granola bites are a staple in my house and always in my bag. They’re chewy with the perfect hint of sweetness and flavor.

4. Justin’s Almond Butter

My youngest niece, a picky eater, has found her match with these nut butter pouches. The beauty of these pouches lies in their versatility. Whether she’s eating it alone, spreading it on a cracker, or dipping apple slices, she’s in control of her snack time.

5. Stellar Pretzel Braids

We may all be familiar with Stellar Pretzels, as it’s offered as a snack option by some airlines. They offer bold flavors, such as Dijon Mustard, without being overpowering. One bite, and you’ll be back for more.

6. Tru Fru Snacks

Prepare to indulge in a delightful treat. The fruit is fresh, and the chocolate used for dipping is velvety smooth. Whether you choose white chocolate, dark chocolate, or both, each bite is a journey into pure satisfaction. Trust me, you’ll find yourself sampling all the flavors.

7. Jack Links Beef Jerky

How many times have we had to juggle multiple packs of our favorite jerky flavors to mix into one bag? The struggle is over with Jack Links Duo. Each pack offers two flavors, providing a convenient solution that saves you time and brings joy to your taste buds with every bite. You won’t be able to pick a favorite, the duos are just too good!

8. Zarbee’s Triple Action Hydration Electrolyte Drink

Encouraging children to drink water can be challenging. We love these drink pouches because they allow the tiny ones to easily grab one for a self-serve option, keeping them hydrated. These pouches are not just convenient, but also loved by picky eaters due to their delicious and natural flavors. Anything that is picky-eater approved is 10/10 in our house! She loves both the Strawberry Lemonade and Lemon Lime pouches.

9. Effie’s Homemade Biscuits

These little treats are somewhere between a cookie and a cracker, but definitely pack the flavor. The corn, yes, corn, biscuits are a pleasant surprise. They’re easy to toss in everyone’s snack bag and are a good source of nutrition on the go!

10. Sprinkles Cupcake Cups

Every road trip needs a little something sweet. These bite-sized pieces of joy, with their convenient packaging, combine the flavors of cupcakes with the taste of rich chocolate. However, it’s not too overwhelming or overindulgent. The Red Velvet and Birthday Cake flavors are exceptionally delicious!

11. That’s It Mini Fruit Bars And Crunchables

Healthy snacks help maintain a good balance and reinforce healthy eating habits. The mini fruit bars and crunchables, packed with essential nutrients, are great for the whole family to enjoy, especially the little ones!

12. Belgian Boys Breakfast All Day

These snack packs are a lifesaver for those hectic mornings when you need breakfast on the go. They come with a small wedge of cheese, mini buttered waffles, and dried fruit, making it a convenient and satisfying meal.

13. Heirloom Pipcorn Mini Popcorn

Don’t forget to pack an extra bag or two of this popcorn for your trip. Its mini size and truffle flavor make it a tasty and irresistible snack. One bag won’t be enough for a road trip, so make sure you’re prepared with extra snacks!

14. Unreal Snacks

Another notch for healthy snacks that are as delicious as they are nutritious. Unreal makes the candy we like, without the additives and yucky stuff we don’t need. Think of them as a healthier alternative to treats like M&M’s and Snickers.

Don’t Skip The Rest Stop Eats

Even if you come prepared with a car full of snacks, sometimes you just want something hot and fresh. If you’re traveling with a large family, lugging everyone into a restaurant can be a hassle. Convenience store foods are meeting consumer habits by providing budget-friendly and road-ready meals that are good.

Pilot Travel Center’s Fuel Kits

Launched earlier this summer and available until September 2, Pilot Travel Center debuted an $8 Fuel Kit at over 340 locations nationwide. The Fuel Kits are customizable snack boxes, offering a variety of options to cater to your taste, featuring three crispy tenders, one choice of candy, a fountain drink of any size, and one bag of Frito-Lay brand chips.

$3, $4, And $5 Meal Deals At Circle K

Circle K, the popular gas station, is your new destination for budget-friendly and delicious pit-stop meals. Their $3-$5 menu offers great value for money, with options for every meal of the day. If you’re in need of a quick snack, their $3 meal deal includes a hot dog or a taquito, a 1-2 oz bag of Frito-Lays chips, and any size Polar Pop.

For breakfast lovers, their mid-tier meal deal is the perfect choice. It’s all about convenience-choose between a breakfast sandwich, add a hash brown, and any 16oz BANG, Ghost, C4 energy product, medium-sized coffee, or any size Polar Pop. No need to worry about what to eat in the morning, they’ve got you covered.

Lastly, the $5 meal deal includes two slices of pizza or a personal pizza and a 20 oz soda product or any size Polar Pop.

How To Store Your Travel Snacks

We store our snacks in various ways, depending on the type of adventure. For road trips, we opt for coolers. The Igloo Trailmate, our trusted companion, makes these trips a breeze. It’s not just for road trips, but also for beach or park days, thanks to its all-terrain wheels. It features two built-in bottle openers, a butler’s shelf, an interior food basket, side storage, and cup holders. And, it can fit 112 cans! We love how we can split the internal space for beverages, fruit trays, deli meats, and other perishables, making it a convenient and easy-to-use storage solution for any outdoor activity.

Our larger cooler, always ready in the trunk, is our refill station. In the backseat, we have a smaller cooler that’s perfect for drinks, perishables, and group meals. It’s a practical solution that keeps us reassured and prepared. For this, we use the Igloo KoolTunes, a versatile addition that doubles as a portable speaker. It’s not just for beach days, hikes, or lake outings; it’s for feeling ready for anything.

The kids also travel with their backpacks filled with anything they may need during our travels, including snacks they don’t want to share. We use a few things to help them keep their snacks close, depending on their needs.

Whiskware Snack Containers are a parent’s dream, fitting perfectly in cup holders or bags, customizable, and each one features perfectly portioned jars to keep kids’ favorite snacks handy for the whole ride. And when the journey is over, toss them into the dishwasher to ensure they’re squeaky clean for the next use, giving you peace of mind about your child’s snack time hygiene. I was able to select containers that matched my crew’s personalities and interests, such as Disney Princesses, Toy Story, or their favorite color schemes.

Speaking of, we matched our favorite containers to Owala tumblers. Additionally, their line of FreeSip and FreeSip Twist bottles makes it easy to manage drinks on the go: no spills, no leaks, no fuss, no mess. The Triple-layered, vacuum-insulated stainless steel keeps drinks cold for 24 hours. It’s just what you need moving about on a hot summer day.

For snacks or bites that don’t quite fit into containers, we rely on the All Haula Insulated Dry Pouches. These versatile pouches fit easily into any backpack or on the side of the All Haula Cooler. Despite their compact size, they can hold a surprising amount. Plus, they’re a breeze to clean, ensuring you stay organized even in the face of leaks or spills.

Wherever adventure leads you this summer, Happy Snacking!



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