by Paul Lines

Created on: September 09, 2008

The Falkland Islands describe themselves as "a natural kingdom, approved by nature, enjoyed by man." A fitting description that still only goes part of the way to describing the unique vacation experience that these islands offer to the discerning traveller.

From the moment you set foot on the island you will notice the difference, as you enter a world that nature has protected from the pressures of man. Situated in the South Atlantic ocean, the Falklands are circle by pure which beaches that are constantly washed by restless crested seas. The cacophony of sound of the sea lion, penguins and other wildlife will provide a relaxing background for those romantic walks along the shores of this magical place. Alternatively, why not spend a lazy day fishing, either from the shore or on one of the many vessels that will take you out into the rolling seas.

Whether it along the beaches or across the rugged inland walks, you will often find yourself attracting the attention of Falkland wildlife, which will stop to say hello. Some of the beautiful species of birds will fly overhead, calling out a welcome.

For those to whom history and learning more about the natural habitat is important, there are many guided tours, the former of which includes a battlefield tour across lands where the UK armed forces jumped during the Falkland's war. The naturalist explorer will be taken to wildlife reserves where they will learn more about the Island's wildlife and flora and fauna inhabitants.

For refreshment there are many restaurants in the Island's capital Stanley, which provide an array of local culinary delights, from the locally caught sea food dishes, which include mussels and crab, to the home grown lamb and beef, there is something to suit every taste bud, including those of the vegetarian.

The world's most southern based capital city, Stanley, may be small but it is big in offerings for the tourist. The maritime and history museums, as well as the small cathedral, which offer an insight into the past that has made the Island's what they are today. There is an array of wonderful shops to provide retail therapy. Within walking distance of the city, along the coast there are a number of wrecks to be explored. Alternatively, if you want to have a bird's eye view of the islands, head for the airport and take a air tour in the company of pilots who will entertain you with many stories about the islands.

Maybe the Falklands does not have all the glitz of other more active island locations. However, what it does offer the traveller is a uniquely unspoilt natural environment experience that would be difficult to equal anywhere else in the world. You will never forget the Sea Lion's wave or the Penguin's chatter, neither will the memory of being so romantically close to nature ever fade.

Learn more about this author, Paul Lines.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.