MUMBAI: Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., India’s leading integrated travel and travel related financial services company, has launched ‘Undiscovered Antarctica’ a group tour package, in association with National Geographic Expeditions. Set to indulge India’s growing base of discerning travellers, the company promises an immersive experience of the 5th largest continent in the world, on board the luxurious Ponant Cruise.

According to a report from Amadeus, India’s luxury travel market is projected to grow at a rate of 12.8 percent YoY. This demand for luxury and experiential holidays is supported by Thomas Cook India’s internal data, which highlights an increase in queries for destinations such as Antarctica. Accessible for only a limited period during the year, Antarctica remains relatively untouched due to the lack of permanent human residence. It presents an ever-changing landscape and a milieu of experiences that take one right from the basics – cut out from the outside world- to a glimpse into the future. Priced at Rs. 9,99,999*, Thomas Cook India’s Undiscovered Antarctica package of 12 nights-13 days, has been designed to provide an un-paralled experience, in one of the most remarkable and remote locations of the world. (*per person on twin sharing basis)

The cruise takes travellers through the mythical Drake Passage, while they catch a glimpse of the majestic Humpback Whales and Albatrosses in action. The encounter with wildlife is further enhanced with delightful calls of the Adelie, Chinstrap, and Gentoo penguins, along with seals and seabirds that have their right of way, before any human! While an extensive part of the tour is spent on-board the cruise, travellers also have a chance to spend time steeped in the historic cities of Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, on arrival and departure, respectively. The comprehensive package includes lectures and sessions with a National Geographic expert and photographer on board the Expedition Cruise.

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Guests on-board the cruise would also be able to enjoy a range of international cuisine with an essence of French, as part of the main course; and includes a delectable cheese platter, French wine, champagne, and more. The package offers evacuation insurance under its travel insurance cover, along with doctors and nurses present on-board. A learning-cum-fun engagement is provided via documentaries and historical lectures. In addition, guests will also be able to take part in kayaking, and opt for a day tour or a stay in the town of Ushuaia, when in Argentina.

Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head – Holidays, MICE, Visa, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd., said, “With travel dynamics undergoing a revolutionary change, we are seeing an encouraging growth in queries for destinations like Antarctica which offer a distinctive journey of exploration, while creating an immersive experience both with oneself and the spectacular surrounds. Mindful of its unique and fragile eco-system, we are delighted to announce the launch of our ‘Undiscovered Antarctica’ tour package in association with National Geographic Expeditions.”

Vijay Nair, Associate Vice President & Country Head – National Geographic Expeditions reiterated, “Antarctica is increasingly gaining popularity amongst travel enthusiasts who are always on the search of something exotic and unique. To address the rising demand to explore the white continent, we are pleased to partner with Thomas Cook to provide an immersive and experiential travel experience to Antarctica. Our Antarctica expeditions offer luxury cruise itineraries where travellers can experience astounding ice-covered landscapes, zodiac outings and explore plethora of wildlife along with our Natgeo experts, Photographers, explorers or scientists. Through these expeditions, we are not only providing travellers an immersive experience to explore the destination but also partnering them to be a catalyst for change built on the spirit of sustainable travel.”

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