The Layover

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Since most of y’all are probably a little bit curious about the experience of getting here, I’ll give a rundown of my travels.

The overall experience from Grand Rapids, MI to Christchurch, NZ was pretty smooth. I’m relieved I printed out the right paperwork-Visa, itinerary, emergency contacts, and information for the gate agent. The USAP (United States Antarctica Program) also provided an ample directory of where to go and what to look out for at every step of the way.

But then again, this isn’t their first rodeo.

As I got to NZ I started seeing signs of people likely headed to Antarctica, which was confirmed when we all met at the shuttles outside of Christchurch Airport. They are the crew that will eventually be camping out in the middle of the ice for 2 months while they drill and collect samples. We all got dropped off to our respective hotels.

I was the only one at Fable which i’m not disappointed by. No FOMO from me. Soon enough i’ll be thrust in the center of a tiny Antarctic village populated with a mere 1,000-1,200 people that i’ll eventually have to cook for. I needed to decompress and see what traveling solo in another country is all about.

More on that later.

My first full day here on the 3rd was filled with online sessions and prompts that covered everything from digital security, safety, protocol, and navigating harassment; Which i’m pleased they take very seriously *side eyes the brewing industry.

On day 2 everyone was shuttled to the CDC (Clothing Distribution Center). This is where we received all our gear and double checked the fit. We were also told that it’s possible a flight delay could happen and to expect a notification by 4:30 that afternoon. Sure enough, there was detrimental weather which meant takeoff was delayed another day.

In between all of these sessions I did a TON of walking and exploring finding all the street food and third spaces. A list of shit I did:

  • Botanical Gardens

  • SALT District

  • Riverside Market

  • Boxed Quarter (but as of today it now goes by The SQ)

  • Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetu

  • The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora

  • Countless street foods from ramen, Indian, Vietnamese, and a classic burger)

  • The local grocery store (Fresh Choice City Market)

  • People watching and bird watching. Both entertaining.

Even some much needed self care at the Fable hotel:

  • Gym

  • Sauna

  • Reading

  • Netflix in a onesie

  • Face mask

  • Sandwich binge (pastrami and chow chow if you must know)

  • Enjoying room service