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Jaunted in Antarctica: A Long Way Down

March 11, 2008 at 2:30 PM | 0 Comments

Two of the Lost Girls are sharing their trips with us this week. Amanda just returned from Ecuador while Holly ventured to Antarctica.

Ushuaia is known as both el fin del mundo and the beginning of the journey to Antarctica. Convicts helped construct its streets, bridges and buildings when the Argentinean government built a jail there in the early 1900s. Officials figured wannabe escape artists wouldn't have a chance to make a getaway, thanks to the city's location in Tierra del Fuego: The waters of the Beagle Channel don't make for an easy swim.

Today, the town's population balloons to almost 65,000 during the high season from November to March. After the jump, find our guide on what to do and see in the City at the End of the World.

Stock up on Gear: Vraie
This is where we went to buy everything from ski pants to wind-proof hats to wool socks. Disclaimer: It ain't cheap, so aim to get your gear in advance--unless lost luggage leaves you empty-handed. 595 San Martin

Get a Chocolate Fix: Chocolates Ushuaia
Whether you're a dark, white or milk chocolate lover, simply setting foot in this cozy, wood-paneled shop will have you on a sugar high. You can't go wrong with dulce de leche, a soft milk-caramel confection that's more addicting than the Nutella we used to spread on croissants during our European backpacking days. 783 San Martin

Brush up on History: Museo Maritimo
If you only go to one museum, this is it. It's chock-full of info on everything from Shackleton's first expeditions to the South Pole to photographs of prisoners forced to build the town to colorful oil paintings by Argentine artists. 9419 Ushuaia

Refuel: Gustino
Ushuaia is known for its fresh crab, tender Patagonian lamb and full-bodied Malbec wine. Sample all three at this trendy restaurant and wine bar--or warm up with mate in the sophisticated tea lounge. 505 Av Maipu

Take a Hike: Tierra del Fuego National Park
Located just seven miles from Ushuaia, the name translates to "Land of Fire." The wilderness stretches for 37 miles between the Beagle Channel to the Chilean border. With waterfalls, forests, mountains and glaciers, there are plenty of breathtaking treks to get your adrenaline pumping. 1395 San Martin

Score Classy Souvenirs: Quelhue
Your co-worker really doesn't need that penguin magnet, so bypass the hokey tourist stores and check out this wine and deli shop decorated with corks and stones that sells everything from hand-made soaps to fresh goat cheese to mate tea. 771 San Martin

Find a Last-Minute Trip to the Ice: Ushuaia Tourist Board
If you're in Ushuaia and aren't on a tight schedule, you could score a discounted, last minute trip to Antarctica. You may have to wait a few days, but sometimes cruises have cancellations or don't fill up. Ushuaia's Tourist Board can give you a list of local tour operators who'll have the inside scoop. 674 San Martin

--Holly Corbett

Related Stories:
· Antarctica Travel coverage [Jaunted]
· Jaunted Field Trips [Jaunted]

Where: Ushuaia, Argentina

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Author Photo: pbb by pbb

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