Welcome to Antarctica, the only continent in the world with no permanent residents and no native peoples! Having been sighted for the first time in recorded history just over 200 years ago, and having been explored for just over 100 years ago, this continent is one of the most fascinating places on your summer reading journey.
Aurora Australis viewed when overlooking the D'Entrecasteaux Channel near Cygnet in December 2015. Image from Wikimedia Commons. Creator - KevMorse.
Despite Antarctica's frosty demeanor and lack of hospitality, it attracts quite a bit of tourism for those willing to deal with average coastal temperatures in the teens (Fahrenheit), and interior continental temperatures that average well below -50F. This is well worth it for those seeking to explore the world's largest, coldest desert. Also, seeing the Aurora Australis's green glow trailing and bending through the night sky is definitely bucket-list material. Do keep in mind that the sun is literally out 24 hours a day in the summer, and winter nights last for months, so plan your visit accordingly!
Please watch the video below if you're interested in the exploration history and life in Antarctica.
Now that you've been briefed on Antarctica, it's time to explore it yourself. Use the sub-pages on the left-hand side of this guide to virtually partake in various aspects of Antarctic life.
