News & Pictures

The following is John's blog entry for 23rd December 2006, at the mid-point of his South Pole expedition in 2006.  Hopefully his entries will make more sense in 2010, having had someone to talk to for the previous month.

 Festive update
23 Dec, 06 - 17:48    
84.2851S,082.1080W
Given the time of year, I thought it might be interesting to look at how the Antarcticans celebrate Christmas.

The first thing that strikes you is how traditional they are. None of this putting up the tree and decorations weeks beforehand, and turning on the lights in the High Street in September. It is the evening of 23rd December and you wouldn't even know it was Christmas in two days. I guess everything will be ready.

Turkey is eaten here, although traditionally most residents can't remember if they had it last year - something to do with the alcohol being a bad batch. Sprouts are sucked until defrosted and apparently taste much better this way (as you can't taste them at all).

The most popular pastime in Antarctica over Christmas will be gambling. Apparently Ladbrokes offer dreadful odds on it being a white Christmas. Not sure why.

Personally, after a hearty Christmas lunch: Chicken cup-a-soup; Hungarian beef stew (quite nice). The cod & potato in cheese sauce that I brought especially for the big day didn't make it past my first big hunger pangs in the second week; Freeze-dried chocolate mousse with digestive biscuits; Coffee & chocolate.

Afterwards , I shall open all (all?) my presents and fall asleep in front of the pile of stuff on the other side of the tent.

The good news is that I won't have to watch anyone else's choice of TV program or do the washing up. I may go for a long walk later on.

Anyone feeling sorry for me should send presents to me c/o South Pole Station. Please ensure you put sufficient postage on the parcels.

Diary