Two years ago, a fortunate series of events led me to ring in the New Year in Antarctica, a place I never dreamed I'd have the chance to experience...

The journey started with a flight from Buenos Aires, Argentina to the southernmost city on earth - Ushuaia. At this unique crossroads of world travelers, every person you meet has an incredible story to share. I swapped tales over pints at the Dublin pub with crews returning and departing on Antarctic expeditions, ADV motorcycle riders multiple years into worldwide tours, local climbing guides setting off for Patagonia, and countless other brave personalities from all walks of life.

Before setting sail for the frozen continent, I spent some time exploring the surrounding area - visiting Tierra del Fuego National Park, sending postcards from the famous post office at the end of the world, and feasting on chowder and giant king crab legs brought in daily at the local seafood restaurant - Tia Elvira.

After a few days exploring Ushuaia, it was time to set off... I boarded a small research vessel and we traveled south for two days across the infamous Drake Passage - the wildest stretch of ocean on earth.

Our small ship navigated massive swells that made it feel like a cork bobbing in a storm drain. Learning to navigate the ship's narrow halls while keeping my balance in the Drake was a challenge that few got the hang of. 

The deck of the ship was completely empty save myself and a former US Navy veteran as half the folks on the expedition were laid up from seasickness - when finally like a mirage, the snowy coastline of Antarctica appeared on the horizon.

We explored Deception Island, an active volcanic caldera where you can walk on black sand beaches surrounded by steam vents and abandoned whaling stations. At Neko Harbor, I set foot on the Antarctic continent itself, penguins wandering past in the most undisturbed landscape I ever set eyes on.

Experiencing Antarctica as the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, surrounded by ice and silence, I was reminded that the best experiences in life come when you push past the familiar... Brave is founded upon that adventurous spirit, and we intend to carry it with us into 2026.

Resolutions Worth Keeping

Say yes to the trip you’ve been putting off. Whether it’s crossing an ocean or finally exploring that trail an hour from home, commit to going somewhere that gets you out of your comfort zone - Be Brave.

 Food is one of the easiest ways to explore the world without leaving home. Seek out ingredients and recipes that tell a story. This is the year to discover new flavors and traditions.

We created Brave Biltong for people who don’t sit still. High protein, zero sugar, no artificial anything - just clean fuel that travels as well as you do. Toss it in your pack for a summit push, keep it in your desk for those long days planning your next escape, or pair it with a charcuterie board when friends come over to swap stories.

Waypoints at the bottom of the world:

• Buenos Aires, Argentina — 34.6037° S, 58.3816° W
• Ushuaia, Argentina — 54.8019° S, 68.3030° W
• Tía Elvira Restaurant, Ushuaia — 54.8069° S, 68.3040° W
• Dublin Pub, Ushuaia — 54.8074° S, 68.3072° W
  
• Correo del Fin del Mundo  — 54.8468° S, 68.4808° W
• Tierra del Fuego National Park — 54.8411° S, 68.5685° W
• Drake Passage (midpoint) — 59.0° S, 62.0° W
• Deception Island, Antarctica — 62.9500° S, 60.6333° W
• Neko Harbor, Antarctica — 64.8372° S, 62.5403° W

The Drake Passage taught me that the roughest crossings lead to the most unforgettable destinations. Whatever your version of Antarctica looks like this year, it’s up to you to take the first step.

Here’s to a year of discovery. Happy new year from all of us at Brave!