After two marvellous days out on “the
camp” (the Falkland Islanders’ name for the countryside) we arrived at the
capital of this amazing place- Stanley- early this morning. After clearing Her
Majesty’s Customs we were allowed to leave the ship and start our various
activities for the day. But before we get to that, just a personal word from
your humble blogger. I have been coming to the Falklands on the Fram for the
past 8 years and it is for me a big highlight to the trip. The people, the
history, wildlife, landscapes, and architecture are all unique. If you have
ever read about or just thought about this place, I would urge you to consider
visiting. The Falklands is at a crossroads with tourism on the increase and the
real potential in the future for for an oil industry. This is the time to see
this vibrant place as it reaches its full potential. Remember, the Fram makes
several visits here every year!
So, what did we do today? Some stayed in
Stanley and just enjoyed the place. Although it was Sunday, many shops and the
pubs (!) were open. Others went on one of several interesting and enjoyable
excursions offered, either in Stanley (history), or outside to see the local
wildlife and scenery. The weather was blustery and cold in the morning but the
sun came out in the afternoon and the wind went uncharacteristically quiet. It
being the day before Remembrance Day, we were lucky to witness an important
ceremony to remember all the soldiers who have died since WWI, including of
course those who lost their lives in the Falkland Islands conflict in the early
1980s. The brass band that lead the procession down the main street flew in
from the UK for the occasion, which was all broadcast live on the local radio.
Here are a few images of the Capital of
the Falklands to give you a small feel for the place.
As we left Stanley, we looked back at the islands we have come to love over the past three days. And we also look forward to our next destination- South Georgia! We will be at sea for the next two days, which will give us ample time for anticipation and dreaming of what is to come!
