Aussies and Kiwis: Antarctic Center on July 13th

Today was a surprise... I knew we were going to the Antarctic Center, but I had no idea how much I would enjoy it. I know Blake felt the same way. The place is fascinating. Most of the people (it actually might be all the people?) who work there have been and worked in Antarctica. The lady that was our guide, had gone for 4 years, I think, and worked there as a cook.

This is the room written about below...the simulation of being in Antarctica. These coats were amazing...and I was still cold when the temperature dropped and the wind started to blow! I cannot imagine truly being in Antarctica, although I'd love to go!

We saw a slide show on the different bases on Antarctica...then we went into a 4D show...wearing glasses to make it 3D...but the fourth is the actual water/spray/cold element added to the experience.

Blue Penquin are also there and they are adorable!

I love these bathroom signs at the Antarctic Center!

We went into a room that is a simulation of Antarctica...donning some incredible coats before entering. There was snow on the ground...and then the temperature in the room started lowering...the wind picked up... and we began to freeze!... well, except for those who braved the elements in short sleeves.

After our lunch there, we headed to the Christchurch Airport, saying our good'byes to Courtney and Brian, and hopping on our flight to Sydney, Australia. It was a 3.5 hour flight...

We were met by our new, extremely enthusiastic, delegation manager, Chloe.

She really pumped the kids up...and they instantly fell in love with her. We took a little drive around Sydney, going down to Ms Macquire's chair - a place on the harbor with a spectacular view of the Opera House and the Bridge. I would imagine several hundred photos were taken! (Including a group shot of all of us!)