It is past that time of year when good little girls and boys are sending letters to the North Pole to ask Santa to fulfill their deepest desires. But what about the South Pole?   Did you know Antarctica is the only continent which has no species of indigenous ants? Weighing in at twice the size of Australia, most people do not know much about the isolated land of ice. Antarctica is also one of the windiest places on Earth, so prepare to be blown away by these crazy cool facts.

Sooo.. Do People Actually LIVE there?

Because of Antarctica's extreme weather conditions, there are no permanent residents or even an indigenous government. However, scientists and other research experts sometimes stick around for up to a few years at different research stations. The stations provide all of their supplies.

World's Coldest Desert

As you know, a desert is a region which receives extremely low precipitation (less than 16 inches annually) and because of this, most plants and living things cannot survive.  Antarctica only receives about 2 inches of precipitation each year which classifies it as the coldest desert on Earth. Blizzards are frequent because of strong winds which pick up the snow which has already fallen and move it around. Antarctica doubles in size each year because of the sea ice which forms around the coast making the coastline itself not the actual defined boundary.

 

How Cold is Cold?

The coldest recorded temperature on Earth was recorded at -128.6 degrees Fahrenheit July 21^st 1983. The temperature was recorded at the most isolated part of the continent and the furthest from any coast.

 

Animals

Despite Antarctica's extreme conditions, an abundance of wildlife is able to call the icy landmass their home. The animal population comprises mostly of little critters such as ticks and mites. The most famous animal found on the coasts is the penguin.  There are no land based animals in all of Antarctica, so all animal species have to rely on the ocean in some way to survive. Crabeater seals thrive in Antarctica and actually have the second largest mammal population next to humans. Krill are found in mass quantities and their population outnumbers humans.  Most animals have anti-freeze in their bodies to survive the low temperatures.

 

Take a Trip

Despite the ridiculous cold of Antarctica anyone is able to book a trip to the isolated continent.  How would like to say you hiked through old glaciers, polar plunges into volcanically heated waters and walk among arctic wild life? A cruise to Antarctica is not your average week away from the office. Try the 11-day Antarctic Explorer, Antarctica's Ross Sea, discover the peninsula, or even take a mini expedition.

By Molly Nelson, Contributing Author

Derived from the Latin word mediterraneus for "inland" or "in the middle of the earth," the Mediterranean Sea covers an approximate area of 2.5 million km². An important route for merchants of ancient times, the Mediterranean region allowed for trade and cultural exchange between emergent people. Today, the area is full of gems for the  discerning traveler.

Aeolian Islands, Italy

One of our favorite places of the Mediterranean for their exceptional beauty, the archipelago, not far from Sicily, consists of eight islands of volcanic origin, with incredible and unique views that have the power to astonish even the most skeptical traveler. A beach with azure waters, the mountainous islands are also home to ancient historical towns with narrow streets, Mediterranean-style homes and fine restaurants. If you are a lover of beach holidays, you should visit the Aeolian Islands at least once.

Tarifa, Spain

Tarifa is the Spanish city from which you can easily see Africa located only 13 km away, and one of the most fantastic places on the Mediterranean coast. With the wind constantly blowing (due to its location and meeting  of the Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean), the city has become a mecca for windsurfing and kitesurfing addicts. However, Tarifa is equally gratifying for lovers of the sea with a beautiful old town and beaches of white and green sand.

Cassis, France

For those who love the French style of holiday, Cassis is a place that will not disappoint. Located near Marseille in the south, the town of Cassis is famous for its spectacular cliffs, many coves with hidden beaches and wine. Apparently, the city was the first of three French vineyards to benefit from the designation of origin (label of origin) introduced in 1930. Today, the famous white wine from Cassis is the symbol of this fascinating region.

Malta

Lonely Planet Malta is called "a microcosm of the Mediterranean." In fact, they're right. Malta is a mix of Europe and North Africa with Arabic influences, which make it a place so different, fascinating and unique. Particularly rewarding for history buffs, admire the beautiful architecture from the Norman, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque periods, while also enjoying ancient buildings dating back to 6,000 years ago, with several museums from archeology to modern history.

Hydra, Greece

The first reason to love Hydra is that cars and motorcycles are not allowed by law on the island. Hydra is truly a special place among the islands of the country, making you feel the spirit of traditional Greece with a coast full of small ports, clear waters and a number of excellent restaurants.

Tetouan, Morocco

One of the most beautiful and exotic lands surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea is Tetouan in Morocco. In comparison to the European counterparts, the coast of Morocco remains untouched and virgin. Tetouan, which means "eyes" in the Berber language, is one of the two main ports of Morocco, and also a beautiful city, with the old section being of world heritage designation, full of traditional charm and quaint buildings.

Obviously there are many more, Palmarola, Ponza, Ischia, Taormina, many islands of Greece, Egypt, but this would only be a brief introduction to the many beauties of our Mediterranean sea to serve as inspiration for a priceless trip. 

Guest blog provided by tripandtravelblog.com.

According to Travel and Leisure, the Top 10 Travel Destinations of 2012 are as diverse a group as you can get. From the ultra lux Abu Dhabi to off the beaten path Xishuangbanna, China to down home rural Arkansas, it's an interesting list of contrasts for the discerning traveler.  Here are their picks and our take on these up and comers, refreshed cities or newly recognized hotspots.

Sri Lanka- Agreed. Often touted as India's stepchild, Sri Lanka is beginning to come into its own limelight with eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, 1,330 kilometers of coastline, 15 national parks showcasing an abundance of wildlife, nearly 500,000 acres of lush tea estates, 250 acres of botanical gardens, 350 waterfalls, 25,000 water bodies, and a culture that dates back over 2,500 years. They had a record breaking year in 2011 for tourism welcoming over 800,000 visitors with the majority from India, Japan, Germany, U.K, France, Netherlands, Italy, and Middle East. 2012 doesn't show any signs of slowing down as more and more Western countries begin to uncover it's wonders.


Toronto- Definitely agreed.  Touted as the NYC of Canada, Toronto has been climbing its way up many's list of favorite cities. 2010 was a record year for tourism in Toronto as the number of hotel room nights sold reached over 8.93 million. Toronto moved up to sixth place in hotel occupancy among top North American cities from 10th a year ago. In terms of attractions, Canada's National Tower (CN Tower) opened a new extreme, EdgeWalk, which is the first of its kind in North America, the world's highest full circle hands-free walk on one of the world's greatest man-made wonders. In addition 2011-2012 will bring a number of new upscale hotels to Toronto including the Trump International Toronto Tower, Shangri-La and Four Seasons.


St. Vincent and the Grenadines- Agreed, but SVG isn't as exclusive or elitist as they portray it to be. Remote yes, but accessible. Its casual, unpretentiously friendly people and deep wealth of natural attractions make this collection of 32 islands and cays a life-renewing experience. From the imposing La Soufriere volcano at 4,048 ft. to the oldest botanical gardens in the Western Hemisphere, SVG is as much a nature lover's paradise as a sailing and diving gem.


Guimarães, Portugal- Mmm no way, too random. Portugal is really known for its gorgeous beaches, and I'm not sure this landlocked area makes the cut. Instead, our pick is Italy's Amalfi Coast, which has recently been getting star power with the likes of Kim Kardashian's short-lived honeymoon and famously as one of Elizabeth Taylor's favorite vacation spots. Often overshadowed by Rome, Venice, Florence and Tuscany, the rugged southern shore dividing the Bay of Naples from the Gulf of Salerno is a restful and picturesque area full of miniature towns, caves, castles and crashing cliffs.


Abu Dhabi- Agreed, but mainly for the recent pop culture love they've been getting from Sex and the City 2 making every fashionista wants to hit the UAE. Headquarters of the world's richest oil companies, Abu Dhabi is capitalizing on its modern sophistication, amazing duty-free shopping, luxury hotels and world class infrastructure.


Costa Navarino, Greece- Meh, there are more interesting on the radar spots in Europe than struggling Greece, like the Dalmatian coast.  With over 1,000 miles of emerald-blue waters, secluded pebble beaches and countless unspoiled islands, Croatia is one of the most romantic honeymoon spots in the world with impressive medieval castles, national parks and charming local villages.


Xishuangbanna, China- Possibly, but still pretty remote. We're not sure Westerners are brave enough to venture off the beaten path in red-shirted China. Combining influences of neighboring Burma, and Laos, and Vietnam, Xishuangbanna is a cultural melting pot, but if you're worried about safety or obscurity, hit up Taipei first. Taiwan is brimming with amazing food, adventure and shopping.


Southern Bahia, Brazil- Bahia may be a beautiful beach town, but it's still not that mainstream yet. Due to Rio's massive infrastructure overhaul for their 2016 Olympic bid, we say get there first and check out the new digs- and what's being retired. Vila Autódromo, a favela situated in the heart of Barra's Olympic Park will be removed by 2013 to allow for further Olympic construction. See the legendary city before it's completely modernized.


Hamburg, Germany- Agreed, but we'd broaden this to Germany in general. The land of fairy tales, Germany where farmland minstrels headed to Bremen to become musicians, where Sleeping Beauty was woken and Little Red Riding Hood ventured into the woods. Discover the country that gave us Beethoven and Bauhaus, Goethe and Glühwein, Lager and Lederhosen.

Panama- Agreed, Panama is certainly Central America's most overlooked country. The Panama Canal is two years from completing a $5.2 billion expansion that will double its capacity and make it one of the most sought after cruise ports just in time to celebrate its 100^th birthday. The name, Panama, means 'abundance of fish and butterflies', in an indigenous language, which gives a good indication of the wild wonders to be found here, beyond its rather daunting, but fascinating capital, Panama City.

Mozambique's Northern Coast- Most of Africa aside from the major safari areas and Cape Town are still considered undiscovered gems. In Africa it really depends what you're looking for- if it's spiritual enlightenment head to Mecca in Saudi Arabia, solo travel try the Red Sea in Egypt or Seychelles for an island escape. Mozambique is cosmopolitan beach town with old world charm.


Bentonville, Arkansas- Sorry, but absolutely not. No one with any sort of metropolitan instinct is going to vacay in Arkansas out of their own free will, even if the Walmart heirs are paying a pretty penny to build It up. Nashville on the other hand, is gaining interest from the urban elites and not just the country music lovers. As a major stop on most cross-country tours, this musical city is sure to be rockin' all night long.

Mark Twain was once inaccurately attributed to saying, "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco." San Francisco, home of sour dough bread and the Golden Gate Bridge, is fondly known for its hilly streets, hippie culture, wacky weather, and one of the most crooked streets in the world. San Fran may be a bit chilly for the sunshine state of California, but the moderate temperature makes it quite enjoyable for the rest of the nation to vacation.

Alcatraz

The famous island of Alcatraz only housed inmates for 29 years, but its legacy lives on in infamy as is consequently one of San Francisco's most popular tourist attractions. History's most notorious criminals such as Al Capone and Robert Stroud have graced its mysterious walls and the island also holds evidence of the Civil War and American Indian Rights Movement.  You may be surprised to know that the island is also home to rare plant species, thousands of birds and marine wildlife. Make sure you book a boat tour early because it is known to sell out!

Fisherman's Wharf

San Francisco, also known as the 'City by the Bay', is known for Fisherman's Wharf which is packed with beautiful sights and things to do. If you're a morning person; head to Fish Alley where the seafood is transported directly from the fishing boats to the vendors at the crack of dawn.  Also, make sure to catch a glimpse of the sea lions at Pier 39 and visit the Aquatic Park and Maritime Museum. The wharf gives you spectacular views of Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge.

Ride a Cable Car

The first cable car went down Clay Street August 2, 1873 at 5 am and for $6, you can still ride one of San Francisco's symbolic vehicles today. It's hard to pass up the opportunity to take a ride on a moving piece of history. If you are interested in learning more about these unique automobiles, stop by the Cable Car Museum on Mason Street.

Lombard Street

At a 40 degree slope with 8 switch backs, Lombard Street is famous for its extreme crookedness. Watching the buzz of cars and bikes drive up and down this crazy pass is a favorite for those visiting the area. Get a front row seat yourself and take a walk on the twists and turns.

Bus Tours

Because of the characteristic sloped roads in San Francisco, get the most out of the charming city by hopping on a bus tour. Open air double decker busses are available which will take you through Lombard Street, Chinatown, Union Square, City Hall and other must-see attractions.

Ghirardelli Square

The holiday season is a great excuse to satisfy your sweet tooth and head to Ghirardelli Square located right off the pier in San Fran. Ghirardelli is famous for its signature chocolate treats and wine. Grab a cup of hot chocolate to warm up and look out for the talented street performers close by.

by Molly Nelson, Contributing Author