We were so pleased that we had chosen a small ship, since the rules in Antarctica are strict about no more than 100 people on shore at any one time. This was adhered to perfectly by our expedition team and we were most impressed. Because there were just less than 200 of us on board Fram, we were all able to go ashore twice most days, and that was fabulous. The team were very diligent in ensuring that there was no risk of bringing seeds, etc. from one island to another - even though it meant using a piece of wire to pick out any grains from the soles of our boots! This biosecurity was essential - and everyone responded well. The food was outstanding. The hotel manager was often at the entrance to the dining room welcoming everyone and the executive chef was regularly around the buffet, or serving area. We had nothing but praise for the food. How do they keep salad leaves fresh for 3 weeks? How do they make such perfect scrambled egg? and perfect boiled eggs? When we were at sea, there was a good programme of science and history lectures, relevant to the places we were visiting. It is hard to believe how much life there is on the beaches of Antarctica. We loved it and took so many photographs. Not a cheap holiday, but definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thanks, Hurtigruten and especially everyone on Fram.