Welcome to an exciting new episode filled with information about a place I would describe as other-worldly and epic. My husband Craig and I traveled to South America to explore the region of Patagonia.
Are you intrigued by glaciers, quiet and unspoiled landscapes, warm and welcoming locals, and delicious food? Have you ever wondered what it was like to speed across the ocean in zodiac boats to see penguins living in their natural habitat?- We did it all and so much more.
We were invited to join a Small Group Explorations Tour with Colette. The tour is called Patagonia: Edge of the World. We traveled so far that at one time, we were sailing at the southern tip of South America; we were only 500 miles from Antarctica. This journey was filled with unique experiences that left us feeling like true explorers, just like Magellan.
In this episode, I interview Sol Maranon—an outstanding tourism professional with 36 years of experience. Sol grew up in Chile and knows practically everything you need to know about Patagonia; plus, her knowledge of glaciers is impressive!
Highlights of this episode
- Details of the spectacular itinerary
- Descriptions of the incredible national parks on the tour – Torres del Paine, Tierra del Fuego, plus others
- The grandeur of Perito Moreno Glacier – Ice calving!
- A visit to a sheep ranch, enjoying time with locals, and viewing the extra-special herding skills of Fayo, the sheep herding dog!
- What is a guanaco?
- Details of the unique architecture of the accommodations (Suzanne’s favorite)
- Climbing on Magellan’s ship
- Riding in zodiac boats to see the penguins in their natural habitat
This is Part One of our two podcast episodes devoted to our tour of Patagonia. There is so much to share that we created TWO! Next up, I interview my tour partner and husband, Craig Stavert. We will dive deeper into what it really feels like to Travel to the End of the Earth! This episode will be published on Friday, March 7th. It is EPIC!
Important Links
Tour – Patagonia: Edge of the World
Travel Connections Podcast
Adventures of Empty Nesters
Suzanne Stavert is a podcast host, travel writer, brand ambassador, and culinary explorer who inspires empty nesters—and anyone with a sense of adventure—to explore the world with curiosity and joy. She is the creator of AdventuresofEmptyNesters.com, a travel and lifestyle website that has evolved into partnerships with top brands and destinations around the globe.
Suzanne also created and hosts the podcast Travel Connections, where she interviews chefs, entrepreneurs, authors, and travel experts, sharing stories that connect people through travel, food, and culture. Through her company Travel Connections Tours, she leads small-group adventures in Tuscany, combining her lifelong love of Italy with authentic travel experiences.
A recognized expert in the Empty Nester Community, Suzanne has been recently featured on Good Morning America and USA Today and continues to share her passion for meaningful travel across six continents. One continent to go!