The Antarctic Hitchhiker

Most Bulgarians have heard the name of Christo Pimpirev and remember the smiling professor from the television screen. They know about the expeditions and about Bulgaria's base in Antarctica, about the difficulties our polar explorers face and about the successes they achieve on the Ice Continent every year. But who is the man behind the big smile? How did he manage to turn his personal dream into state policy and create a positive image of Bulgaria in the world for decades? What motivates and inspires him and gives him the strength to keep moving forward?

Professor Christo Pimpirev is a lecturer in geology at the Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski, scientist and polar explorer. Chairman of the Bulgarian Antarctic Institute and director of the National Center for Polar Research. Leader of 32 Bulgarian Antarctic expeditions. Author of 11 books, 10 documentaries, one feature film and over 250 scientific publications. Commander of the Order of Isabel the Catholic, awarded to him by decree of the King of Spain, Felipe VI, for his significant contribution to the ties of friendship and cooperation between the Spanish and Bulgarian nations. Prof. Pimpirev is included in a world ranking of the hundred most prominent polar researchers on Earth. Pimpirev Peak on Alexander Island, Pimpirev Glacier and Pimpirev Beach on Livingston Island in Antarctica are named after him.