As end of year celebrations approach, everyone feels slightly apprehensive. What will it be like amongst the brouhaha of the station, when most of us are used to spending Christmas with close relatives? The decoration of the station is devoted to the DC13 crew. Up until we have hanged all the multicolor garlands around the living room, it does not really feel like “holiday season”. We are indeed surrounded by snow, but the resemblance to festivities back in Europe pretty much stops there. No endless commercials begging you to spend money, no frenzy trying to find last minute gifts, no Christmas carols or Christmas markets, bright sunshine all day long, instead of ever-shorter days…. However, we’ll make do with what we have! And it will definitely be a year to remember!
The Christmas meal is extremely lavish; the cooks have obviously spent hours preparing everything. Especially as the facilities weren’t really designed to accommodate 90 people! A few of us decorate the cafeteria and take out the special china. A delicious homemade fruit wine with the appetizers ensures a cheerful and festive atmosphere from the start. The multi-course menu is sumptuous: Octopus salad, Coupe colonel, truffle and champagne Risotto, Tournedos Rossini with Gratin Dauphinois, cheese board and finally Panettone, Grand Marnier and Sabayon ice cake…. After this delicious feast, there is a dance party; definitely not what I am used to for Christmas! A few days after we start all over again for New Year’s Eve. There is not much to distinguish it from the previous week’s festivities. Identical guests, slightly different folded napkins, opulent and exquisite meal once again, and dance party at the same popular bar after! We are treated to cold meat cuts, Lentil “Zampone”, pear Grappa Trou Normand, Rosa di Parma with squash puree, cheese selection and Norwegian Omelette with a red berries coulis. I might come back next year!
75 Degrees South 