Victoria Salem
Victoria began working in Antarctica in 2001 as a student doing research. She was working on her graduate certificate in Antarctic studies. The historian joined Quark in 2003 as a historian and Expedition Coordinator. He gift is her ability to make history interesting to everyone.
Victoria has joined these expeditions:
What skills do you bring to the job?
"People skills - communication; ability to tell an interesting story or anecdote. I have a good memory for facts and dates. I have guiding skills and patience."
What keeps you coming back season after season?
"The other worldliness of the polar regions - their beauty and separation from the 'real' world. The ice and the wildlife."
If you could time travel which historic expedition would you join?
"Carsten Borchgrevink's Norwegian/British "Southern Cross" expedition of 1898-1900. They were the first ever to spend over a year living in a hut in Antarctica (a fascinating experience). They didn't torment themselves over-exploring and most of them got back alive."
Victoria's advice for Polar Travelers
"Be open-minded about what you do and see; one of your most memorable experiences may turn out to be a storm in the Drake Passage or a blizzard during a shore landing!"