Falkland Islands

Description of Falkland Islands

The Falkland Islands are made up of 2 main islands and hundreds of smaller islands located in the South Atlantic. The islands are located about 300 miles of the south eastern coast of South America. Most of the people who visit the island come during the summer months from October through March as this is a great time to enjoy the quaint rural lifestyle and spectacular wildlife.

The Falklands are an overseas territory of the United Kingdom. They are also associated with the European Union.

History

The islands were first sited in 1592 by an English navigator, but the first landing of the English did not occur until about a hundred years later in 1690. The first settlement of the island was by the French and it was not established until the year 1764. Since this time the islands have been a part of several territorial disputes, starting with Britain and Spain and the later between Britain and Argentina. The islands have remained under British control since the year 1833.

Conflict between Argentina and Britain started in April of 1982 when Argentina sent troops to the islands. The British then sent in forces about seven weeks later. During the Falklands war, fierce fighting between the two countries occurred. Finally in June of 1982, Argentina was forced to surrender. However, Buenos Aires still has not fully given up claim to the territory.

Fauna and Flora

One of the main reasons that people visit the islands is because of the wonderful fauna and flora that the islands have to offer. Conservation is extremely important to the islands. The most prevalent fauna are marine species and birds. There are 5 types of penguins and 4 types of seals there are also petrels, albatross, Logger duck, several other duck species, hawks, geese, and falcons. One of the rare birds of prey found on the island is the Striated Caracara. Dolphins and porpoises are often seen off the coasts and occasionally whales can be spotted.

Islands and Towns

When it comes to life on the islands it can be divided into 2 sections, either living in Stanley or in camp. East and West Falkland are the 2 main islands and there are several smaller islands that provide additional destinations. Some of the smaller islands include West Point island, Sea Lion Island, Saunders Island, Pebble Island, New Island, and Carcass Island.

The term town is relative on the islands. Stanley has a population of nearly 2000, but the populations of other settlements range from single digits to maybe 20. There is an increase in the populations during sheep shearing season. Stanley is the capital city and where the main port is located. Goose Green offers a small settlement that has several remnants of the 1982 war. Another place to visit is the 200,000 acre sheep farm in Port Howard.

Sight Seeing and Shopping

There is a museum to explore located on Holdfast Road. The official currency of the islands is the Falkland Pound which value is set according to the British Pound. You can only exchange money at the banks that are located on the islands.

Most of the meals on the islands are British in nature. Roast beef, fish and chips, mutton, and of course tea, are all standard fare. There are a few Spanish influences found around the islands as well. Many of the camps will provide generous portions of home cooked meals. There are several decent restaurants located in Stanley.

Most of the items in the Falklands are quite expensive, but there are no alcohol taxes, which means that the price of beer is quite affordable. There are lodges and pubs offering a great selection with most choices being in a bottle or can rather than from a tap.

There are many bed and breakfasts that you can stay at in Stanley as well as a few hotels. The buildings are usually older. Camp lodging may include anything from an old farmhouse to a lodge that was built specifically for tourists. Some landowners may provide you permission to camp on their land while you are visiting.

Some facts about Falkland Islands

Gallery of Falkland Islands

Falkland Islands video guide

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Top cities of Falkland Islands