Once in a lifetime isn’t a cliché — it’s a promise.

This episode features Maria Pilar Fernandez, International Sales Manager at Oceanwide Expeditions, to explore the raw, untouched magic of Antarctica — a destination that changes how you see the world.

With over two decades of guiding travelers to the ends of the earth, Pilar reveals what makes Oceanwide’s polar voyages so extraordinary: small, luxury vessels, immersive wildlife experiences, and adrenaline-pumping activities like kayaking alongside glaciers or mountaineering in pristine silence.

Whether you’ve dreamt of seeing penguins in the wild, feared the Drake Passage crossing, or wondered if you are the kind of person who can go — this episode answers it all.

🎧 Episode Highlights

🛳️ What it’s really like on an Antarctic expedition

🧗‍♀️ The Base Camp Program for active adventurers

🐧 Face-to-face moments with penguins and seals

🌬️ Tips for crossing the Drake Passage (and loving it)

💼 Who these trips are for — and how to prepare

🧘‍♂️ Why travelers return transformed, not just impressed

🎟️ If Antarctica’s been calling your soul — this is your sign to answer.

✨ Heard something that sparked your wanderlust?

💬 Leave us a comment: What would your dream moment in Antarctica be?

Across South America

🌐 https://across-southamerica.com/

Stories Across South America — Episode 1: How It All Began (Luxury Travel in South America)

"From a tiny office with one landline to transforming the way travelers experience South America — Maria shares the story that started it all."

Discover the inspiring origin story behind Across South America, a women-led boutique travel company redefining luxury travel across South America.

In the very first episode of Stories Across South America, co-founder Maria Barciela takes you back to where it all began — and surprisingly, not in South America, but in Europe.

With heartfelt honesty and humor, Maria recalls the early days of Across South America, opening a little office in Buenos Aires with just one phone line, forgetting to renew their tourism license, building a website before websites were a thing, and breaking barriers as women in a male-dominated industry.

Throughout her story, you’ll hear what has always set them apart: an uncompromising passion for showing travelers the heart and soul of South America, and a commitment to creating transformational, unforgettable journeys through destinations like Argentina, Chile, and Peru.

🌟 Episode Highlights:

💡 A business born in Europe, with a dream rooted in South America
📞 Starting with just one landline and endless determination
👩‍💼 Building a women-led business in the luxury travel industry
❤️ Why passion, purpose, and personalization define real luxury

✨ A behind-the-scenes look at a company creating soulful journeys

🎧 If you're dreaming of authentic, high-end travel in South America — this episode is your perfect starting point.

What inspires you most about Maria’s journey?

🗯️ Have you ever taken a leap of faith to follow your passion? 💬 Tell us in the comments — and don’t forget to subscribe for more soulful stories from across South America.

🌐 https://across-southamerica.com/