For decades, the glitterati have flocked to sun-drenched locales like St Tropez, Mykonos, and Monaco, seeking idyllic warmth and glamorous beaches. However, a surprising new trend is emerging among Hollywood's elite, one that involves trading bikinis for thermals and swapping sun rays for snow-covered vistas. Antarctica, the world's fifth largest continent, is rapidly becoming the unexpected holiday hotspot for celebrities, with recent high-profile visits signalling a dramatic shift in luxury travel preferences.
From Sun Loungers to Snow Expeditions
The traditional image of celebrity holidays, complete with beach-ready bodies and tropical backdrops, is being redefined. Instead of packing swimwear, stars are now donning heavy clothing and thermal gear to explore the icy wilderness of Antarctica. This frozen continent, with its limited sunlight and freezing temperatures, offers a stark contrast to conventional celebrity getaways, yet it is capturing the hearts of A-listers seeking unique and adventurous experiences.
Nicole Kidman's Icy Adventure
Australian actress Nicole Kidman, 58, recently shared captivating snaps from her family trip to Antarctica, showcasing her joyous exploration of the stunning landscape. Accompanied by her daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret, as well as her sister Antonia, Kidman participated in snow expeditions and kayaking in the blistering cold sea. She later relaxed on a luxurious boat, basking in the heat after her icy adventures. Clearly enamoured with the continent, which she revealed is her seventh to visit, Kidman videoed the breathtaking snow-covered glaciers, highlighting the allure of this remote destination.
Her getaway was meticulously planned with Silversea, a premier luxury cruise liner and expedition business. Prices for these lavish trips start at an astonishing £10,000 per person and can climb to an eye-watering £30,000. This cost includes a suite on board one of their plush ships, hotel accommodation, and charter flights from locations like King George Island or Puerto Williams, though international flights are an additional expense. Silversea promises guests the chance to be part of a privileged group exploring the planet's last great wilderness, with ships featuring lounges, boutiques, observation decks, fitness centres, beauty spas, and libraries.
Catherine Zeta-Jones and Family Embrace the Cold
Welsh actress Catherine Zeta-Jones, along with her husband, legendary actor Michael Douglas, and their children Dylan and Carys, recently embarked on an Antarctic adventure. After flying to Chile, the family was spotted at Carlos Ibanez del Campo Airport before setting off on their expedition. Michael Douglas shared a sweet family snap on a small boat, captioned simply, 'Greetings from Antarctica!' Their daughter Carys, 22, updated her 246,000 followers with selfies and adorable photographs of penguins in the snow. It is understood that their trip was also booked through Silversea, underscoring the popularity of this luxury provider among celebrities.
Other Stars Drawn to the Frozen Continent
The appeal of Antarctica extends beyond Kidman and Zeta-Jones. Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton took a lavish trip in 2023, celebrating his 38th birthday in the snow and branding it the 'most beautiful place' on earth. He shared his journey with fans, including visits to Adelie penguins in Antarctica's Victoria Land, and enjoyed time on board a £200 million mega-yacht that costs £1.8 million a week to charter. Hamilton was joined by US Olympic gold medallist snowboarder Shaun White and actress Nina Dobrev on this extravagant excursion.
Similarly, singer Ed Sheeran and his wife Cherry Seaborn visited Antarctica in 2020, and the destination holds such a special place in their hearts that they named their daughter Lyra Antarctica Seaborn Sheeran in tribute. This growing list of celebrity endorsements suggests that Antarctica is not just a passing fad but a meaningful trend in high-end travel.
The Future of Celebrity Holidays
As more stars opt for the unique experiences offered by Antarctica, questions arise about the future of traditional celebrity holidays. Are the days of posting beach-ready bodies on white sand for Instagram over? While sun-soaked destinations will likely remain popular, the rise of Antarctica as a hotspot indicates a shift towards more adventurous and exclusive getaways. With its combination of stunning natural beauty, luxury amenities, and a sense of exploration, Antarctica is redefining what it means to holiday like a celebrity, proving that sometimes, the coldest places can offer the warmest welcomes for those seeking something different.
