Population: 3,140 Dialing Code: +500 Languages: English Religions: Christian 67.2%, none 31.5%, other 1.3% (2006 census) Internet TLD: .fk Located: Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of southern Argentina Area: 12,173 sq km Comparative Size: slightly smaller than Connecticut Nationality Noun: Falkland Islander(s) Nationality Adjective: Falkland Island |
A compact group of 740 land masses south of the Atlantic, the Falklands is a great natural wonder of the modern world. Vast colonies of Magellanic penguins, black-browed albatross and seals welcome guests to the realm of Neotropics. From high cliff-tops to pristine beaches, whales and dolphins riding the surf dominate the view. There are pinniped sea lions, considered as the sea's elephants for being the largest in the globe, that bask in a natural, unpolluted environment without enclosures—with just the company of crisp winds, rainbows and voluminous clouds. As for the rest of the details, nature does the talking.
Variety is also a Falkland trademark, whether the thirst is for adventure or for quieter pleasures. From personal encounters with the bird kind, to trout fishing, hiking, clay pigeon shooting, and self-exploration or guided tours to the pilot city of Stanley, the Falklands open a wide door of opportunity for a heart-to-heart talk with its nature, people or culture.
Since Britain holds the Islands' executive authority, about 70 percent of Falklanders are of British descent, while the remaining 30 percent are of French, Gibraltarian, Portuguese, Scandinavian and Chilean blood. Although diversified, the people here are generally sunny, with a sweet-tooth for comfort dining and organic food.
While the Falklands are a popular cruise stop, many still prefer to travel through aircraft, where pilots do not only carry prized rams and newborn foals, but also a tank full of stories about all things Falkland.