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| - While I would normally do a big trip almost entirely on my own, you can't really do Antarctica on your own. You're stuck choosing a tour company to work with, which for someone independent like me, seemed like quite the daunting task. After finally narrowing down my search, I wound up choosing an Antarctic cruise with G and eventually added on the Patagonia Experience as well. Best honeymoon ever!
All cruise ships to the Antarctic require hefty medical insurance. G offered their plan, our travel agent offered theirs, but ultimately we went with one that we could afford and offered money back should the trip be canceled (very, very important with Antarctic cruises).
As for the credit cards fees even though it's paid in USD - that is NOT the fault of G. At all. That is called American credit card companies milking you for every penny. If you use a credit card overseas, it no longer matters if you are charged in USD. The fact you are not on US soil means you will be hit with a "foreign exchange" percentage despite no actual exchange happening. I'm surprised people blame G when all you had to do was call your credit card company to find that out (a good travel agency will also warn you about credit card policies, which ours did as well). For people who travel a lot, a card with no international fees is the way to go anyway.
As for the actual trip, I was very impressed. Our main guide was funny and informative, and I was sad to part with him after the Patagonia portion of the trip ended. For us, it is hard to say the restaurants were touristy considering few natives can afford to eat out often, so almost all restaurants are, in a sense, "touristy". Still, we always had the option to not eat with the group and go on our own, and option excursions mentioned prior to arrival were just that: optional. Our second guide we met up with in Torre del Paine was an American who had moved to Chile, and while she wasn't an official G employee, she worked often with them and was just as knowledgeable as our other guide. Very impressed overall, and as for tip? I didn't mind leaving one and neither did anyone else. Tips are always voluntary, and just because someone tips $50 doesn't mean you have to tip that much. Always tip what you think it's worth or can afford.
Antarctica was even more impressive. The ship, M/S Expedition, was not touted as luxury but it certainly went above and beyond. By day two, every member of the staff knew your name, and once they know your name, they never forget it. Expedition staff were very knowledgeable about Antarctica's rich history and wildlife, with plenty of presentations given on the boat as well as information on shore. I added on the kayaking, and while I almost dropped out prior to the trip, I'm so glad I kept it. The kayaking was the best part! I cannot recommend paying to add on the kayaking experience. It's worth every last penny you'll spend to do it. Be sure to bring a camera that can get wet - I had a tough camera but others opted for a GoPro. Back on the ship, the food was excellent and well varied, there were plenty of interesting books in the ship library, the bridge was open and interesting to visit, and there were plenty of excellent spots to view wildlife or relax on deck. My only complaint is placing the dining room at the top front area of the ship... if you get seasick easily, it's not a fun place to be trying to eat a meal. You can ask to have a meal brought down to you if you aren't feeling well but still want your dinner, and the staff always brought it to me without a complaint.
Overall, I was very impressed with G. I would not always book them for every trip because some things are certainly cheaper to do on your own, but G offers some other trips I'm very interested in and, knowing what friends paid through other tour companies, is pretty on par in terms of cost. You also have the chance to meet some great people from around the world. While our Patagonia group was rare we were told (all of us got along and became quick friends), you're still bound to meet a few people who you bond with. Thank you, G, for providing us with a wonderful honeymoon filled with friends, laughter, and plenty of penguins!
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