My daughter, Peggie and I had been planning this trip for so many years that we are not sure when it started. I did the research with the help of our wonderful AAA staff. We finally decided on Society Expeditions.

It seemed to be exactly what we wanted; a ship that carries only 160 passengers, 2 elevators, ice-hardened double hull, nice sized cabins (215 Sq. Ft.) with TV, hair dryers, etc. The price of the cruise included everything, even the on board gratuities. However, it did not include the airfares. For years both of us have been saving our U.S. Airways frequent flyer miles for just this purpose. So we booked our two week adventure for Dec. 2001. But, Society called AAA and told them that the ship was being refurbished and would not be ready until Jan.

We could go on another ship, go in Jan or get our deposit back. We were sticking with this ship, the World Discoverer, so we chose to go in Jan 2002. (Peggie said those other ships look like Motel 6's.) Before it was time for final payment Society called AAA again; the ship would not be ready until Feb. and repeated the offers. However, the Feb trip was for 3 weeks instead of 2 and we could go for the same price as we were paying for the 2 weeks. Of course, we accepted the offer. Then, in Oct. 2001 my hubby was diagnosed with terminal cancer. We knew we were not going to Antarctica, but we were in such a state that we didn't get around to cancelling the trip. Guess what? Society called again; the ship was not ready. We could get a refund or go on another ship. I told my AAA agent, "You tell them this is what we want. We want the same 3 week trip for next season for the price we are paying for the 2 weeks." She said, "Just a minute. They are on the other line." She came back on and said they agreed.

That is how it came about that we had a grand adventure starting on Nov 16th through Dec. 9th. I spent another week with Peggie in FL and arrived home on Dec. 17th.
Look for Installment #2 another day.