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Online Program

Adventures Online: Go Beyond the Ice in Antarctica

Program No. 24214RJ
Discover the wonders of the seventh continent without leaving home! Join our experts for a look into the wildlife and history of Antarctica during a live, online learning adventure.

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DATES & PRICES

Online Program
Learn from the comfort of your own home.

DATES & PRICES

Online Program
Learn from the comfort of your own home.
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

Experience the wonders of Antarctica without leaving home during this live, online learning adventure! With our Antarctica expert, get a first-hand account of what it’s like to live in an Antarctic field station and learn how the continent is administered. Through online field trips, explore the Antarctic Peninsula and its islands as you discover penguin rookeries, field stations and abandoned whaling stations. Get a primer on identifying the region’s marine birds and mammals, including dolphins, fur seals, blue whales and penguins. Take in lectures on the history of the continent, from whalers to one of Antarctica’s most famous heroes, Sir Ernest Shackleton. Throughout your online adventure, get to know your fellow Road Scholars as you all delight in the stories and online experiences that bring the ice to life.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • “Step foot” on the Antarctic Peninsula and its surrounding islands as you explore penguin rookeries, international research stations and abandoned whaling stations online.
  • Join our Antarctica expert for a look at what it was like to live in an Antarctic station.
  • Learn about the wildlife that inhabits this frozen continent, including Rockhopper penguins, Black-Browed Albatross, Leopard Seals and more.

General Notes

You’ll enjoy 2-3 hours of daily instruction, discussion and/or field trips, which includes sufficient breaks throughout the program. This online program is through Zoom, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. We’ll provide a how-to guide to make sure you’ll have a hassle-free experience. In keeping with our Traditional On-Site programs, ALL ADVENTURES ONLINE MULTI-DAY PROGRAMS (INCLUDING THIS PROGRAM) ARE PRESENTED LIVE; THESE PROGRAMS ARE NOT RECORDED. Please review the daily itinerary for start and end times to ensure you won’t miss a minute of this live experience. All times are listed in the EASTERN time zone. If you live in a different time zone, please adjust your schedule accordingly.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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Miko Golachowski
Miko Golachowski is a biologist with a lifelong passion for natural history and exploration. He has been fascinated by cold regions since childhood and spent his first winter as a scientist at the Polish Antarctic Station “Henryk Arctowski.” He eventually became base commander of the 32nd Polish Antarctic Expedition. Since 2005, he has shared knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm with groups on Antarctic expedition cruises. He loves writing about ecology, nature conservation, history, and spending time with his daughter and a motley crew of creatures.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Miko Golachowski
Miko Golachowski View biography
Miko Golachowski is a biologist with a lifelong passion for natural history and exploration. He has been fascinated by cold regions since childhood and spent his first winter as a scientist at the Polish Antarctic Station “Henryk Arctowski.” He eventually became base commander of the 32nd Polish Antarctic Expedition. Since 2005, he has shared knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm with groups on Antarctic expedition cruises. He loves writing about ecology, nature conservation, history, and spending time with his daughter and a motley crew of creatures.
Profile Image of Nicole Flores Jara
Nicole Flores Jara View biography
Nicole was born and raised in Chile. Her passion about her country and the region made her lead programs within South America since 1998 including several trips to Antarctica. She is a true believer in lifetime learning finding in travelling the best source of inspiration to share her knowledge and keep learning. Nicole is a great natural storyteller and also mastered this skill learning from the best in Chile.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
5 days
Experience the wonders of Antarctica without leaving home during this live, online learning adventure! With our Antarctica expert, get a first-hand account of what it’s like to live in an Antarctic field station and learn how the continent is administered. Through online field trips, explore the Antarctic Peninsula and its islands as you discover penguin rookeries, field stations and abandoned whaling stations. Get a primer on identifying the region’s marine birds and mammals, including dolphins, fur seals, blue whales and penguins. Take in lectures on the history of the continent, from whalers to one of Antarctica’s most famous heroes, Sir Ernest Shackleton. Throughout your online adventure, get to know your fellow Road Scholars as you all delight in the stories and online experiences that bring the ice to life.)
Best of all, you'll...
  • “Step foot” on the Antarctic Peninsula and its surrounding islands as you explore penguin rookeries, international research stations and abandoned whaling stations online.
  • Join our Antarctica expert for a look at what it was like to live in an Antarctic station.
  • Learn about the wildlife that inhabits this frozen continent, including Rockhopper penguins, Black-Browed Albatross, Leopard Seals and more.
General Notes
You’ll enjoy 2-3 hours of daily instruction, discussion and/or field trips, which includes sufficient breaks throughout the program. This online program is through Zoom, an easy-to-use web video service that includes closed captioning. All you need is an Internet connection and your computer. We’ll provide a how-to guide to make sure you’ll have a hassle-free experience. In keeping with our Traditional On-Site programs, ALL ADVENTURES ONLINE MULTI-DAY PROGRAMS (INCLUDING THIS PROGRAM) ARE PRESENTED LIVE; THESE PROGRAMS ARE NOT RECORDED. Please review the daily itinerary for start and end times to ensure you won’t miss a minute of this live experience. All times are listed in the EASTERN time zone. If you live in a different time zone, please adjust your schedule accordingly.
Featured Expert
Profile Image
Miko Golachowski
Miko Golachowski is a biologist with a lifelong passion for natural history and exploration. He has been fascinated by cold regions since childhood and spent his first winter as a scientist at the Polish Antarctic Station “Henryk Arctowski.” He eventually became base commander of the 32nd Polish Antarctic Expedition. Since 2005, he has shared knowledge, experience, and enthusiasm with groups on Antarctic expedition cruises. He loves writing about ecology, nature conservation, history, and spending time with his daughter and a motley crew of creatures.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of Nicole Flores Jara
Nicole Flores Jara
Nicole was born and raised in Chile. Her passion about her country and the region made her lead programs within South America since 1998 including several trips to Antarctica. She is a true believer in lifetime learning finding in travelling the best source of inspiration to share her knowledge and keep learning. Nicole is a great natural storyteller and also mastered this skill learning from the best in Chile.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (22 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
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Activity Note
Today’s session will start at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time and end at 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
1:00 p.m. Welcome, Orientation, Introductions. Our Group Leader will greet everyone and review the program theme, the up-to-date daily schedule and any changes, Zoom meeting protocols, roles and responsibilities, and answer any questions. We will then say hello to our fellow Road Scholars. 1:30 p.m. Lecture. In this overview of Antarctica, we will learn what makes it so special and what defines it geographically. We’ll also learn why some people call it Paradise Frozen, and the route of our expedition. 2:00 p.m. Break. 2:10 p.m. Virtual field trip. The Falkland Islands — Islas Malvinas — are home to fascinating flora and fauna. We will see several places that make these Islands uniquely exciting. Highlights will include colonies of Black-Browed Albatross and Rockhopper Penguins on Saunders and Westpoint Islands. We will keep an eye out for Magellanic Penguins as well as the notorious Striated Caracara raptor, locally known as Johnny Rook. We’ll also “visit” the only town, Port Stanley, our departure point for sailing on towards the dramatic landscapes of South Georgia. On the way, we’ll look out to the impressive Shag Rocks as well as sea birds and whales on our way. 2:50 p.m. We’ll have a Q&A session. 3:10 p.m. Lecture. Next, we will address life in the open sea and learn about some of the creatures exploring the vast swath of the Atlantic Ocean separating South Georgia, such as lives of some seabirds that we’ll be able to see while sailing, from the seemingly tiny Wilson’s Storm Petrels to the gigantic Wandering Albatross, as well those of cetaceans that we will be able to meet, from Commerson’s Dolphins to Blue Whales. We will also learn how to recognize different species of marine birds and mammals. 3:40 p.m. We will have a Q&A session. 3:50 p.m. Wrap-up and notes for tomorrow. 4:00 p.m. Today’s session will end.
Activity Note
Today’s session will start at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time and end at 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
1:00 p.m. Review of the day with our Group Leader. 1:10 p.m. Lecture. South Georgia is rich with wildlife. We will learn about the amazing lives of three of its most characteristic species: King Penguins, Fur Seals, and Elephant Seals. They astound not only with sheer numbers, but also elegant looks, boisterous behaviors, and gargantuan physiques. We’ll hear about astonishing stories they have to tell. 1:50 p.m. Break. 1:55 p.m. Virtual landing. On our way to this virtual “landing” we will skirt and admire A68, the world’s largest iceberg, now stuck in the shallows. South Georgia and A68 are roughly the same size! We’ll then “land” at Grytviken, site of the local government. It also offers impressive remains of an old whaling station and a South Georgia museum. We’ll also pay our respects to Sir Ernest Shackleton and Frank Wild, heroes of Antarctic explorations, who are buried in the local cemetery, and raise a toast with the beverage of our choice. After an introduction to the challenges of surf landings typical of this place, we’ll move on to wilder areas. Highlights will include St. Andrew’s Bay, with thousands of Antarctic Fur Seals and the largest King Penguin colony in the world: 250 000 breeding pairs. Gold Harbour, another local jewel, is a relatively small bay surrounded by majestic glaciers and home to Elephant Seals, as well as King Penguins. 2:35 p.m. Q&A. 2:45 p.m. Break. 2:55 p.m. Lecture. We will learn about the history of sealers and whalers who, besides ruthless exploitation, were also drivers of exploration and geographic discoveries. We’ll also discuss the life and achievements of one of Antarctica's most famous heroes, Sir. Ernest Shackleton. 3:30 p.m. Directed discussion. We’ll focus on the rat and reindeer eradication program in South Georgia, the largest of such operations in history. 3:50 p.m. Wrap-up and notes for tomorrow. 4:00 p.m. Today’s session will end.
Activity Note
Today’s session will start at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time and end at 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
1:00 p.m. Review of the day. 1:10 p.m. Lecture. We will learn about the daily challenges and realities of life at a remote Antarctic station. Our expert spent nearly three years at the Polish Antarctic Station Arctowski, including two overwintering expeditions including when he was also the Base Commander for a year. Miko will share his experiences of scientific and daily life at Arctowski, as well as some of the neighboring stations, including the U.S. Copacabana Field Camp. 1:50 p.m. Break. 2:00 p.m. Virtual landing. We will “land” at Arctowski Base and see places where visitors are not ever allowed to go, such as the main building, scientific laboratories, the kitchen, and technical areas. We’ll also get to know the neighbors at the nearby penguin colony. 2:40 p.m. Q&A. 3:00 p.m. Lecture. As we head towards the White Continent, we will learn about some of the historical, intellectual, and geographical breakthroughs that have led humanity to gradually transform Terra Australis Incognita — unknown southern land — from fantasy into reality. 3:40 p.m. Q&A. 3:50 p.m. Wrap-up and notes for tomorrow. 4:00 p.m. Today’s session will end.
Activity Note
Today’s session will start at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time and end at 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
1:00 p.m. Review of the day. 1:10 p.m. Lecture. We will learn about the “heroic age of exploration” and some of the most exciting adventures from the end of the 19th century through the 1920s. These were the times of Robert Falcon Scott, Roald Amundsen, Douglas Mawson, and of course Shackleton, as well as other notable characters. We will focus on the three expeditions that are especially relevant to the areas we will be exploring: the Belgian, Swedish, and French expeditions. We will hear amazing stories most people have never heard before. 1:50 p.m. Break. 2:00 p.m. Virtual landing. We’re off to the Antarctic Peninsula! Our first landing will be at Brown Bluff, an immense cliff near Hope Bay at the tip of the Peninsula. The cliff is what remains of an ancient volcano buried under a glacier. The site features eroded boulders as well as our first large colony of Adelie and Gentoo Penguins. We’ll see the ethereal Snow Petrel on its nest and some of the most picturesque and renowned parts of the Peninsula. We’ll go to stunning Neko Harbour with more Gentoo Penguins, and then in front of a Paradise Bay glacier via Zodiac. We’ll also learn the story of the fire at the Argentinian Station Almirante Brown. 2:40 p.m. Break. 2:50 p.m. Lecture. We have seen them everywhere now, so it is time to learn more about penguins, the fascinating birds that make Antarctica what it is. We’ll learn about their adaptations and challenges facing some of the most successful species on the planet. 3:30 p.m. Directed discussion. We’ll consider how different species of Antartic wildlife are affected by climate change. 3:50 p.m. Wrap-up and notes for tomorrow. 4:00 p.m. Today’s session will end.
Activity Note
Today’s session will start at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time and end at 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
1:00 p.m. Review of the day. 1:10 p.m. Lecture. We will learn about the evolution, adaptations, and daily lives of some of the sturdiest — yet cutest — inhabitants of Antarctica, seals. We’ll discover the most interesting fact about Creabbeater Seals, hear the haunting sounds of a Weddell Seal singing, and get to know the boisterous Leopard Seal. 1:40 p.m. Lecture. Antarctica today is very different while in many ways the same as it was before exploration. We’ll address the Antarctic Treaty, climate change, and territorial disputes. We’ll also review some of the current issues regarding the place we have visited, their protection, and potential future. 2:10 p.m. Q&A. 2:20 p.m. Break. 2:30 p.m. Virtual landing. Our ship will take us through Lemaire Channel, a stunning tectonic canyon that is 2,200 feet (670 meters) wide at its narrowest point and surrounded by cliffs that reach heights of 3,300 feet (1,000 meters). Via our Zodiacs, we will set out to admire what has been called the “largest art gallery” in the world, gliding among icebergs that became stuck in Pleneau Bay, a veritable iceberg “graveyard.” A quick dash South will allow us to cross the Antarctic Circle. Heading northward again, we will make our final landing at the old British base at Port Lockroy, also known as “the Penguin Post Office.” 3:10 p.m. Q&A. 3:20 p.m. Break. 3:30 p.m. We’ll review the high points of our Antarctic experience. 3:40 p.m. Wrap-up and farewells. 4:00 p.m. This concludes our program.
Participant Reviews
4.99
Based on 72 Reviews
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Maureen – Class of 2015 | Cocoa, FL
This was a fantastic trip. We traveled to a place of extreme beauty and wonder. Severe motion sickness keeps me from going to Antarctica in person but the landing experiences made me feel like I was there. No wind, no cold, picture perfect days, and no smell of penguin poo. What's not to like.
— Review left October 13, 2024
Susan – Class of 2012 | New Haven, CT
This was my 1st experience with Adventures Online, and I didn't know what to expect. It turned out to be very enjoyable, absorbing, informative and entertaining at the same time. The 5 afternoons flew by. Miko is a terrific instructor/guide, so knowledgeable and always with a sense of humor. Nicole is an excellent group leader.
— Review left October 12, 2024
Caroline – Class of 2023 | Fort Myers, FL
A great virtual trip! Hope someday to actually get there. Both speakers were excellent and added many facts and antidotes to make it feel as though you were actually there.
— Review left August 16, 2024
Patricia – Class of 2018 | Thousand Oaks, CA
“Go Beyond the Ice in Antartica” was an immersive, 5-day program that included a number of aspects about the country, including geography, history, ecology, and extensive coverage of the animals that are found there as well as a spectacular tour of the terrain and icebergs. I highly recommend this program to the armchair traveler as well as a preparation for anyone considering a trip there. Of the many Road Scholar online programs I have participated in to date, this is by far the best.
— Review left April 10, 2024
Jerry – Class of 2019 | Rancho Santa Fe, CA
It was a great trip So well prepared. Now I want to go to Antarctica and really experience in scale the beauty
— Review left April 6, 2024
Carolyn – Class of 1998 | Williamsburg, VA
The Antarctica program was fabulous. Never wanted to deal with Drakes Passage, so this was the perfect solution.
— Review left April 5, 2024
Cindy | Jacksonville, FL
The Antarctica program was wonderful! Superbly planned, organized, and carried out. Nicole was an excellent emcee and presenter. She kept the group focused and on time. She is an enthusiastic and dynamic leader. She also did one presentation herself on Antarctic exploration which was fascinatingly well done. Her use of audio visuals for her presentation was superlative and greatly enhanced my understanding of Antarctic exploration. Miko ( Dr. Golachowski )took us for a remarkable tour of the Antarctic, guiding us in words, pictures and videos. Throughout the course he showed why he should be considered an outstanding scientist. His key virtues as a scientist are immense curiosity and enthusiastic fascination with his subject matter. He is delightfully witty, while showing great respect for our planet and all its inhabitants. If you want a splendid, wonderfully well organized learning experience, don’t miss this one!
— Review left October 10, 2023
Thomas | SAUGATUCK, MI
My wife and I attended this online class in partial preparation for our upcoming trip to the Antarctic. While the series included areas (Falklands, S. Georgia) that we are not visiting, the series was well worth the time and cost. The presenters were extremely knowledgeable and presented the materials in a manner which was both understandable to the lay person and was done with an obvious passion for the Antarctic region and the environment/wildlife in general.
— Review left October 9, 2023
Christine – Class of 2008 | Rockville, MD
I strongly recommend the virtual learning programs of RS and especially recommend the Antarctica one. everything about the Antarctica RS 5 day adventure was excellent, the photos and videos were perfect and the information provided was exceptional.
— Review left October 7, 2023
Kate – Class of 2004 | Yonkers, NY
After completing this program, I feel like I have actually been to the Antarctic.
— Review left October 7, 2023
Janet – Class of 2022 | Venice, FL
The online travel to Antarctica was like I was there, but it saved me a lot of money, I didn't have to climb into a Zodiac and was never COLD.
— Review left October 7, 2023
Susan – Class of 2011 | New Prague, MN
This online adventure was excellent. Miko the expedition leader is wonderful. I had been to Antarctica in 2010 when I could still travel, but I learned so much more about it thanks to this adventure.
— Review left January 18, 2023
Christopher – Class of 2008 | South Windsor, CT
This 5-star Antarctica program is ideal for the curious and for those who will never actually go to the Antarctic continent. Nicole as group leader and Miko as our subject matter expert were amazing individually and worked together very well. It was a great way to spend five afternoons. You’ll learn about birds, seals, penguins, whales, explorers, geography, geology, biology and evolution, as well as how to safely get in and out of a zodiac. It’s a fun way to learn!
— Review left January 14, 2023
Paul – Class of 2018 | Salt Lake Cty, UT
The best of many previous trips, so participants enjoyed sights and sounds no one actual trip could have included. Mizo's breadth of knowledge and experiences, his ability to explain the science, and his sense of wry humor, made him the perfect Antarctic expert.
— Review left September 17, 2022
Jan – Class of 2008 | Malden, MA
This is a fantastic program - both for those who would like to visit Antarctica someday, and for those who think they'll never get there. It's such a fantastic place, and this course is taught by such a fantastic tour export, it's got to be the next best thing to being there. Loeved every minute.
— Review left May 15, 2022
Kathleen – Class of 2012 | Nipomo, CA
Take this program. You'll love it!
— Review left May 13, 2022
Susan – Class of 2015 | Fort Wayne, IN
I took the online trip to Antartica, and it was fantastic! The leader and instructor were very knowledgeable. We had lectures and at the end of each day we took a virtual tour of the location. I saw penguins, birds, seals, whales, dolphins, and more. The landscape was amazing with volcanic rock and icebergs. The best part is that I enjoyed all this AND the comfort of my own home!
— Review left May 13, 2022
Alexander – Class of 2021 | Hillsboro, OR
The online Antarctic program is wonderful, and I didn't get cold or seasick!
— Review left May 13, 2022
Elizabeth | North Hero, VT
Very knowledgeable and inspirational guides. The visual presentation was exemplary and I learned so much about the wildlife, geography and history. I would love to go work there! Thanks for a wonderful experience.
— Review left January 29, 2022
Ingrid – Class of 2013 | San Jose, CA
This was an extraordinary adventure that far exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend this.
— Review left January 28, 2022
This participant did not give a star rating.
Marlene – Class of 2022 | North Hollywood, CA
Wonderful program. The staff were very knowledgeable on the subject. They presented the material in a very interesting way and kept you focused throughout each daily excursion. Both worked very well together. Each of them clearly communicated their enthusiasm with the material, which I found contagious in the best sense of the word.
— Review left January 23, 2022
Barbara – Class of 2022 | Basking Ridge, NJ
The virtual trip to Antartica is outstanding and top-notch in every way - from the friendliness, humor and expertise of Nicole and Miko (our trip leader and instructor) to the videos with audio of nearly a million penguins waddling across beautiful terrain. I learned about the exploration of Antartica, the physiology and life histories of penguins, seals, birds, and whales as well as what life is like in the winter living on a research station. The lectures cover many topics with videos and photos of gorgeous scenery and fascinating animals. I can think of no way this trip could have been better!
— Review left January 23, 2022
Diane – Class of 2010 | Richmond, KY
I highly recommend this program. It was both informative and lots of fun because of the enthusiasm and expertise of the group leader and main presenter. The supporting materials were relevant but not overwhelming, and many references for additional reading were supplied. Great program!
— Review left January 23, 2022
Mary | Northfield, MN
This program had everything but the smells, the icy water and the motion sickness. In all other respects it delivered an outstanding learning adventure about the icy continent. Miko, the instructor, is a fantastic instructor.
— Review left January 21, 2022
Sue – Class of 2018 | Huntington Beach, CA
Virtual Antarctica expedition was phenomenal!Leaders Miko and Nicole made this cold desolate place come alive!
— Review left January 21, 2022
Vicki – Class of 2019 | Jacksonville, FL
Very enjoyable and informative virtual trip/experience! Learned a lot about the wildlife and their habitats,exploration of Anartica and the continent itself. Makes me want to actually go there! Instructors were great!
— Review left November 20, 2021
Keith – Class of 2021 | La Conner, WA
A great virtual tour, although a little heavy on lectures (including history lessons). Loved the landings and wished there were more.
— Review left November 19, 2021
Elaine – Class of 2011 | Bethesda, MD
This is the next best thing to actually visiting Antarctica. It is also a great way to get familiar with what that beautiful continent has to offer before going on an in-person tour. The 5 days flew by as did each day of lecturing. Totally enjoyed it.
— Review left November 19, 2021
Sara – Class of 2004 | Bloomington, IL
Hoping to actually GO to Antarctica soon I took this trip as 'insurance' in case the actual trip was canceled. This was a fabulous experience, especially parts that won't be included on the 'real' trip (research station, Falkland Islands, for instance).
— Review left September 23, 2021
Georgianna – Class of 2019 | Sacramento, CA
Great way to visit Antarctica and learn so much about it. Very knowledgeable and enthusiastic group leaders/instructors. Highly recommend
— Review left August 27, 2021
Kathleen – Class of 2014 | Arlington, VA
You must take this trip! Fascinating subject, excellent photography and instruction. If I didn't hate the cold, I'd go in person now.
— Review left July 24, 2021
Jerry – Class of 2013 | Johnson City, TN
Virtual Program on Antarctica will peak your desire to go to Antarctica. The Group leader and Expert did a marvelous job of presenting the history and wild life of the region.
— Review left July 24, 2021
Jean | Fort Collins, CO
I have taken over 15 virtual adventures which have all been great, but I think this virtual adventure raised the bar. I have also been to Antarctica and I wish this program would have been available before I went. It was absolutely outstanding. Even if you think you may be not be interested in the 7th continent, I think you will change your mind once you have taken this virtual adventure. I can't say enough good things about this program.
— Review left July 23, 2021
Jane – Class of 2014 | Milwaukee, WI
This was a fascinating program about an amazing part of the world. I learned so much about Antarctica and about the wildlife in the region.
— Review left June 29, 2021
Kathleen – Class of 2007 | Stevens Point, WI
This virtual trip was wonderful! Information about explorers, the Antarctic stations, nearby islands, wildlife and climate change's effects kept me interested every minute. The leaders were excellent, making the schedule clear and sticking to the times promised. I may never go to Antarctica in person, so I feel that this virtual trip was perfect for me!
— Review left June 28, 2021
Jane – Class of 2017 | Durham, NC
A wonderful virtual trip, in which you have the feeling of actually having gone to Antarctica. The leaders, Nicole and Miko, are enthusiastic and tell you all about the penguins, seals, whales, and other birds as well as how it is to live there. There are history lessons and photos of creatures and landscapes, and videos of Zodiacs and birds and icebergs... I was eager each day to learn more from this team. Highly recommended!
— Review left June 26, 2021
June – Class of 2011 | Oak Brook, IL
If you haven't traveled to the Antarctic or are unable to take a trip there, this program, Go Beyond the Ice in Antarctica, will wet your appetite and satisfy your desire to learn more. I have been there three times and still learned so much. It was like going a fourth time.
— Review left June 25, 2021
This participant did not give a star rating.
Helen – Class of 2019 | Santa Rosa, CA
Absolutely Fabulous Adventure! Out tour leaders were interesting and informed, providing an excellent mix of videos, lecture and discussion that was totally captivating. I just signed up for a trip to a place as remote as possible and was totally wowed by everything I learned. Wonderful week!
— Review left June 13, 2021
Marianne – Class of 2019 | Aliso Viejo, CA
This program is the best! If you have ever wanted to visit or learn more about Antarctica, this is the program for you. You will learn about penguins and other marine life, the explorers, and doing research there as well as seeing so much of the scenery. The instructors and group leaders are extremely knowledgeable and very entertaining.
— Review left June 2, 2021
Wendy – Class of 2019 | Carmel, IN
Wish I could rate this even higher - it was amazing! Format and content nicely balanced, but it was Nicole, Miko, and Jamie who did such a wonderful job of making this an engaging, interesting, and informative program. The pictures and videos were great, and you could feel like you were actively participating in life in Antarctica. A must-take online adventure!
— Review left May 31, 2021
Carolyn – Class of 2003 | Menlo Park, CA
Knowledge expansion par excellence...without getting cold or wet. What is Antarctica? This program covers it all.
— Review left May 29, 2021
Mary Kay – Class of 2012 | Towson, MD
Superb program with marvelous presenters. I would give it more than 5 stars. Beautifully prepared lectures which were well organized and filled with amazing personal experiences by the very enjoyable team. You could feel their love of the wildlife and environment. Landing videos were wonderful. At the end you really wanted to leave immediately to see the region.
— Review left May 29, 2021
This participant did not give a star rating.
Janice – Class of 2019 | Ashburn, VA
An excellent overview of Antarctica that covered all the key points. Each lecture was informative and sufficiently interactive even though it was virtual. Plenty of time was allowed for Q&A. Nicole, Miko and Jamie all did outstanding jobs. The sections on wildlife were the most interesting to me. There was a lot I didn't know about seals and penguins. The choice of photos was also outstanding, each one providing a glimpse into the beauty of Antarctica. I enjoyed the maps and had fun with the trivia questions. I had computer issues one morning, but that was a problem with my network, not Road Scholar. Technical assistance at Road Scholar was responsive even though the problem was on my end. I appreciate the recommended reading list and video. Great job, Road Scholar. As aging baby boomers become less able to actually travel, these on-line courses are a great way to satisfy the travel bug. Keep it up. Janice Jacobs
— Review left May 29, 2021
Brenda – Class of 2011 | Cincinnati, OH
This was a marvelous arm chair adventure! Other than missing out on the cold and smelling the elephant seal flatulence I feel as though I’ve actually been to Antarctica. A most enriching educational experience!
— Review left May 28, 2021
Barbara – Class of 2021 | Scottsdale, AZ
If you are thinking you might want to go to Antarctica one day, take this program....it will convince you to go! Simply amazing.
— Review left May 10, 2021
Martha – Class of 2020 | Allentown, PA
The virtual trip to Antarctica was so well done with excellent photos and videos that I actually felt as thought I were experiencing the land in person. The instructors made the information come alive and were so receptive to answering questions that I learned more than I ever could have imagined! I was able to correctly answer a Jeopardy question regarding Antarctica that none of the three contestants answered! That alone made the trip worthwhile! I also enjoyed receiving the suggested reading list and chose two books: one a murder mystery and the other an incredible account of a cross continent solo trip.
— Review left May 10, 2021
Linda – Class of 2017 | Royersford, PA
Wow - what a trip! Even though it was online, the majesty of the Antarctic came through loud and clear. If you can't go there in person, this is definitely the next best thing!
— Review left May 3, 2021
Patricia – Class of 2013 | Urbana, IL
This was an excellent program. I initially signed up because I thought I would never travel to Antartica. But after this program I'm seriously thinking about a trip there.
— Review left May 2, 2021
Susan – Class of 2021 | Kensington, NH
We've always wanted to visit Antarctica. Given Covid travel restrictions, traveling virtually was the next best thing. The immersion was amazing - fascinating, breathtakingly beautiful, and full of wildlife. The videos and photography were so spectacular that it was easy to feel like we were there. You'd think 15 hours in front of your screen over a week would be mind-numbing, but instead it was profoundly enlivening. As usual, Road Scholar does a superb job presenting a wide range of interesting, accessible material. Each lecture - from historical exploration, penguin life, the whale and seal industries, glaciers and geology, to conservation and climate - was fascinating, and the team of presenters was outstanding. We look forward to our next adventure with Road Scholar and hope you'll retain some virtual options once we can travel again, so we can explore the world even more widely. Thank you!
— Review left May 1, 2021
George – Class of 2017 | Hilton Head, SC
Your website program is a great addition to your programs. Many of us cannot travel to places around the world To have the opertunity to visit these places is very rewarding. thank You
— Review left May 1, 2021
Sally – Class of 2013 | Marietta, GA
If you want to experience Antarctica in a way that you almost feel you are "there", this program is for you! Plus you get to skip the frigid temps and the long, long flights!
— Review left April 30, 2021
Arlene – Class of 2015 | Toronto, Canada
The virtual trip to Antarctica was outstanding. The group leader was wonderful in facilitating the program and her lecture was great. The subject experts, Miko and Jamie were fabulous. They presented excellent material, had good visuals, and were very well organized. The whole team was so passionate about Antarctica. Their passion was infectious. I can't wait to go in person. Whether you plan to go in person or think you will never get there, take this program. it is terrific...
— Review left April 30, 2021
Loretta – Class of 2017 | San Francisco, CA
This was one of the best weeks I have had since the lockdown began. Every morning I looked forward to getting up to spend time with Nicole, Jamie, and Miko and all the spectacular wildlife we saw. Nicole was always enthusiastic and kept the sessions on time. I enjoyed every minute of my time in Antarctica and will never look at penguins and seals the same again. I have enjoyed all of my online adventures with Road Scholar but the Antarctic trip really changed the way I think about our planet and the non-human creatures inhabiting it, in the way that "real" travel usually does. this was the closest to being there. I also appreciated the video and references Nicole sent to us after our adventure ended. Miko has more experience in Antarctica than most people will ever have and he brought his experiences alive for us. I especially appreciated the reverence he has for the wildlife and how he helped us relate to them as fellow earth dwellers. I may never be able to visit a zoo again to see these amazing creatures out of their natural habitat. Not all research scientists can make their work meaningful to non-experts but Miko did. He was the best. I look forward to reading some of his papers.
— Review left April 22, 2021
Robert – Class of 2010 | Portland, OR
This was an outstanding program for those who are interested in the ice continent and want to perhaps take a in-person tour, and for those interested in the various types of wildlife that inhabit the continent and surrounding islands.
— Review left April 10, 2021
Judith – Class of 2009 | McLean, VA
Road Scholar's virtual tour of Antarctica is beautiful and excellent. The lectures, photos, and videos are presented in such a way that you feel like you are actually on the trip. The leaders Nicole, Miko, and Jamie are very passionate about Antarctica and they made a great team. Well worth the price and your time.
— Review left April 10, 2021
Cyndy – Class of 2015 | Seadrift, TX
This was a terrific armchair experience. All of the instructors shared a great love for the Antarctic and its occupants. The materials and the lectures were interlaced with fun facts and anecdotes. The instructors all gave us a feeling that we were actually on the voyage instead of "just" being in an online class.
— Review left April 9, 2021
This participant did not give a star rating.
John – Class of 2017 | San Carlos, CA
Extraordinarily informative, entertaining, and inspiring.
— Review left April 9, 2021
Leslie – Class of 2017 | Renton, WA
Nicole, Miko and Jamie brought their enthusiasm about the Antarctic region to life sharing their experiences, knowledge and love for Antarctica with us. Amazing class led and taught by amazing people. Thank you!!!!
— Review left April 9, 2021
Bonnie – Class of 2020 | San Jose, CA
Penguins, seals, whales, seabirds, research stations and amazing glaciers - this trip was fantastic and we all felt like we were sitting on a boat or Zodiac in the middle of the Antarctic waters enjoying the wonderful wildlife. Miko, Jamie and Nicole made a wonderfully immersive class, full of videos, photos and personal experiences. I really appreciated their passion for this truly spectacular region.
— Review left April 9, 2021
Diane – Class of 2010 | Ellicott City, MD
This was a fantastic experience. Our guides, Miko and Nicole, brought Antarctica and its birds and animals to life for us. We learned so much about the geology, wildlife, scientific missions and history. The virtual Zodiac rides were almost as good as being there in person--but we stayed warm and dry at home. They did a great job of interacting with our group through the Q&A sessions. Nicole is to be commended for building rapport with and among our group.
— Review left April 8, 2021
Nancy – Class of 2017 | Sewell, NJ
Very unique way to be a "participant" in an Antarctica adventure. Really enjoyed viewing and participating with my fellow travelers from my warm comfy couch. Great insights into what goes into living in this area as a researcher and also the interactions with the animals. I especially enjoyed the way we were divided into groups, as though we were actually there in our own zodiac. Our tour hostess was full of enthusiasm and did a great recap at the end of each day and prior to the start of the next. Many thanks for sending us the link for the video so that we can view on our own. Here is a wave back to all of my Antarctica friends. PS - I would still rather do this in person!!!
— Review left March 28, 2021
David – Class of 2015 | Johnson City, TN
Very well done and organized trip. RS leader Nicole Flores Jara was very well organized, enthusiastic about Antarctica and kept program on track. Our principal guide Miko Golachowski who guided us from his home base in Poland was simply fantastic. Made you feel as if you were actually in the Falklands , So Georgia or the peninsula with his first-hand accounts. All lectures were superb and the tours that followed seamlessly supplemented the talks.Highly recommend this program . Would now really love to go and see the real deal...but probably not mobile enough to get in and out of zodiacs. Thank you Road Scholar team.
— Review left March 28, 2021
Lorilee | Athens, GA
With spectacular visuals, materials, and effects; fun simulated landings; and instructors with deep technical knowledge and personal experiences going to Antarctica, facilitated by a likewise enthusiastic group leader, I highly recommend the virtual adventure Go Beyond the Ice in Antarctica with Road Scholar. So pleased I made the "trip"!
— Review left March 28, 2021
Carolyn – Class of 2019 | Maidens, VA
I was not sure how much I would get out of a virtual travel experience, so I chose Antarctica, because at least it was about a place I would be unlikely ever to visit in person. The tour guide, Miko, was SO good, however, that by the time the week was over, I found I would truly like to go to Antarctica one day--if I can find a way to manage the physical rigors and the expense. If Miko were going to be the in-person tour guide, I would try that much harder to participate.
— Review left March 27, 2021
Ginny | Portland, OR
This was such a lot of fun. I can't believe how much I learned about Antarctica in the comfort of my home.
— Review left March 26, 2021
Margaret – Class of 2017 | Walnut Creek, CA
Road Scholar has once again exceeded expectations with this program and the speakers! Creative approaches to keep us engaged, personal stories of their experiences doing research in Antarctica, and lots of laughs. So many of the spectacular photos added to the excitement of the tour. I loved the approach that puts us (virtually) on a ship, discusses what animals we might see on the way and “lands” us at the various stops, cleaning our shoes, etc. Very creative perspective - makes it more like a trip and less like a travelogue. The lovely summary video on the last day was a gorgeous remembrance of our week.
— Review left March 26, 2021
Anna – Class of 2000 | Pompton Plns, NJ
Virtual Antarctic program was excellent. Great instructor, visuals. Totally worthwhile if you can’t get there in person.
— Review left March 26, 2021
Marcia – Class of 2006 | Brighton, MI
This program was amazing. I wasn't sure what to expect in a virtual trip but it was indeed the next best thing to being there. Videos and photography combined with lectures from experts put me in Antarctica without seasickness.
— Review left March 26, 2021
Pat – Class of 2017 | Memphis, TN
I’ve wanted to travel to Antarctica for a long time and I thought that maybe this virtual trip would satisfy my yearning to see the Antarctic in person. But, this extraordinary virtual experience only makes me want to visit in person more than ever. Wonderful guide - so well informed. Fascinating environment. Can’t say enough good things about this fabulous Road Scholar experience!
— Review left February 21, 2021
Laurence – Class of 2009 | Doylestown, PA
This program is outstanding. The presenter and group leader are exceptionally knowledgeable, organized, and accommodating all of which contributed to a vastly exciting and meaningful virtual experience. The scenery, history, and wildlife of Antarctica are second to none. This virtual program is the next best thing to actually being in Antarctica as it prompts an exciting sense of exploration and adventure.
— Review left February 20, 2021
Roger – Class of 2019 | Apple Valley, MN
Beautiful scenery, fascinating and beautiful wild life, Great historical information - al provided by a brilliant, experienced and amusing instructor and a well-organized leader.
— Review left February 20, 2021
Kathleen – Class of 2017 | San Diego, CA
Not everyone can go to Antarctica but this is such a wonderful way to "see" it. The history, wildlife, explorers and scenery were all amazing and shared in a great manner. Nicole was an amazing facilitator and Miko has a great way of sharing information, ideas, opinions and experiences. I highly recommend this program!
— Review left February 20, 2021





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