This is the southernmost spot in the world where you can send a postcard or buy a penguin fridge magnet. On a small island in Antarctica’s Palmer Archipelago, a penguin looks in through a misted window, peering past the gingham curtains before waddling back to its nesting brethren. In the distance, an elephant seal lazes on packed ice, rolling over to expose his belly to the sun. It’s not exactly the setting where you’d expect to find a gift shop. |