PORTS OF CALL - South America
Port Stanley, Falkland Islands
Located far off the southern tip of South America, the capital of the Falkland Islands is a tiny, charmingly-British town set in a beautiful wilderness. In Stanley, you'll find pubs, British "bobbies," well-kept gardens, tea time, red mailboxes and the Union Jack flying. All around Stanley are the open moors, white sand beaches and sea-cliffs locals call "camp," where you can fly fish, soak in the pure ocean light, and share the clear air with a wide variety of wildlife - from penguins, whales and dolphins to over fifty species of island birds.
Don't Miss
Penguins! Gypsy Cove, a short bus ride from Stanley, is known for its Magellanic penguins, which are as endearingly comic as they are breathtakingly wild. It's an unbeatable thrill to see them make the transition between their onshore waddling and their agile water-flying. And the setting is pure Falklands - white sands, bracingly clean air and a wide open horizon.
Sporting Adventures
"Camp," the wilderness surrounding tiny Stanley, is a fly fishing paradise. Sparkling streams, open moors, and abundant sea trout - you'll have no trouble finding a spot of your own, and the remote atmosphere will make you feel like you're in another world. Averaging between three to twelve pounds, the Falklands' sea-trout are known as fierce fighters. It's a challenge you won't regret taking.
Shopping for Bargains
In Stanley's charming little downtown you'll find a rainbow selection of local hand-spun, hand-dyed yarns - as well as the Falklands' famous wool products, from the "Falklander Sweater" to wonderfully soft ponchos and stylish knit hats. Other local crafts include leather work, woodworking, and jewelry making - all lovely ways to remember your stay in this remote part of the world. You'll also have no trouble finding a memento to remind you of the penguins.
Local Flavours
Fresh, organic ingredients from the isolated farms of the Falklands give Stanley's restaurants the taste of the far south. Locally grown vegetables combine with locally produced lamb, beef, mutton and goose pate for a variety of enticing dishes. And you can enjoy the area's British roots with a good draught of beer and a plate of fish and chips. You also won't want to miss the amazing local seafood - snow crab, oysters, mussels, and scallops, not to mention squid and the Patagonian toothfish.
Currency
The official currency in Stanley is the Falkland Island pound, which is equal to the British pound, though it can't be used off the islands. British pounds and US dollars are widely accepted, as are many credit cards. You can change your traveler's checks at a bank. Bring money with you, as there are no ATMs on the islands.