by Sherry Law

Created on: September 09, 2008

400 miles east of the southern coast of South America and only 850 miles north of the Antarctic Circle lies an island archipelago of over 700 islands. Known as the Falkland Islands, it is home to penguins and sea lions; a land of white sand beaches, wind-swept moors and sea caves carved by the relentless pounding of the South Atlantic waves. Though not the destination for those craving bright neon-lit nightclubs or the choice of a dozen fast food eateries, outdoor enthusiasts and seekers of blue skies, unique landscapes and clean air will find themselves enchanted by the peace and quiet of the Falkland Islands.

With a total landmass roughly the same size as Connecticut (U.S.) or a little over half the size of Wales (U.K.), the Falklands are comprised of two main islands and several hundred tiny islands scattered throughout the surrounding waters of the South Atlantic. The two main islands are East Falkland and West Falkland, once called Isla Gran Malvina and Isla Soledad by the Spanish. Located approximately the same distance from the Equator as London, England (except to the south), the climate is similar to that of Scotland. Ranging from the low 20's degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to the mid 70's in the summer, temperatures often feel cooler due to the wind. Summer on the islands is generally sunny, though the winter landscape is often swept by cold, drenching rains and light snowfalls. It is worth reminding travelers that since the Falklands are south of the Equator winter is in June, July and August, while the warmest of the Falkland's cool summer months is actually in January.

The islands are a combination of sandy beaches, weathered rocky outcroppings and grassy moors. There are no trees native to the islands; instead shrubs seem to hide from the incessant winds in sheltered nooks and crannies. What the island lacks in trees is made up for by its wildlife. Upland Geese, Night Herons, Southern Giant Petrels and Rock Cormorants are only a few of the species of birds that make the islands their home. Five different types of penguins can be found on or around the Falkland Islands, as well as seals, sea lions and dolphins. Much of the Falkland Islands land area is used as grazing land for the flocks of sheep that provide the famous Falkland Wool.

The locals are generally a friendly, helpful and somewhat "chatty" bunch. Numbering approximately 3,000 (according to the 2005 census) they are outnumbered by both the sheep and the penguins on the islands. English

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