Carlinn Meyer from South Africa flew from Cape Town to the sparsely-populated continent surrounded by scientists and was left stunned by the facilities on board

A travel photographer has shared her extraordinary journey on a cargo plane to Antarctica, calling it the ultimate bucket list adventure she never knew she needed.

Carlinn Meyer took off from South Africa and found herself in the company of scientists, heading to the icy expanse. She turned to TikTok to share her experience with her 238,000 followers, revealing: “Did you know that you can fly from Cape Town to Antarctica? The flight is only five and a half hours and takes you deep-field in Antarctica! We spent eight days exploring the beautiful area at the Ultima Oasis camp as well as heading to see Emperor penguins!”.

Upon boarding, Carlinn discovered an unexpectedly homely setup inside the cabin, complete with Netflix on a large TV and amenities resembling a kitchen, including a fridge, coffee machine, kettle, and microwave.

Delighted by the comfort and services provided, she noted: “The plane ride is really comfortable and they even serve food,” while enjoying a selection of salads and rolls and pointing out that both meat and vegetarian options were on offer. “You can help yourself to hot drinks and snacks in the front of the plane.”

She was also impressed by the abundance of choices on the kitchen island counter, ranging from soft drinks to a variety of sweet and savoury treats. Carlinn shared: “If you get to peak out of the windows, the views coming into Antarctica are amazing.”

She also revealed that there is “plenty of space” to walk around on board, and two port-a-loos are available for passengers. “As you get closer to landing [the final hour of the flight], the cabin temperature begins to drop, which means it’s time to put on your polar gear,” she added. “[Airline] Ultima provides you with all the necessities if you don’t have them.”

Carlinn closed: “Landing on the ice was super smooth and once you get off the plane it’s time for your Antarctica adventure to start.” In a separate caption, meanwhile, she described her experience as the “trip of a lifetime”. She gushed: I still cannot believe my dream became a reality! Everything was just so smooth and easy with Ultima Antarctic Expeditions.”

However, one of her followers was taken aback by the cost of such an expedition. “$75,000?” they queried. Carlinn responded: “They [flights] cost more and by flying with scientists and cargo the trip becomes way more sustainable. But everyone can travel as they want for their own reasons.” She also clarified that the fee covered an eight-day all-inclusive trip.

An admirer commented: “You have unlocked a bucket list trip I did not even have. Thank you. I’m definitely going there.” Another was enthralled: “Just amazing. First I’ve ever seen someone show what the trip is like.” Whilst a third expressed their surprise: “No turbulence on that flight – everything is just set up on the table.”

However, a sceptic remarked: “No normal person can do this. It’s either free or super rich. Pointless.” Carlinn hit back to clarify: “Lots of normal people go there. They work hard as chefs, guides, cleaners, engineers and so much more.”

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