About
Introduction
The Falkland Islands an archipelago few hundred miles west off the tip of South America, sitting on the 52nd Parallel.
With a rich history going back hundreds of years, the Falkland Islands is a unique place in the world.
Where in the world...
People and Culture
More than 3,660 people live in the Falkland Islands from more than 71 countries, including 11% from Saint Helena and 5% from Philippines. Many Falkland Islanders can trace their heritage back through nine generation, stretching back over 200 years. This diversity influences the culture of the Islands which values fairness and tolerance.
Education in the Falkland Islands is free and both primary and secondary education is available for all children aged 3 to 16. Beyond the age of 16, young people have access to both higher and further education abroad, which is funded by the Falkland Islands Government. 85% of students who leave to study abroad choose to then return to live and work in the Islands.
Although a small community, Falkland Islanders benefit from a range of local front-line services – health, police, fire and rescue – as well as many leisure and social amenities. In Stanley there is a Leisure Centre which supports a range of sporting activities, including swimming, hockey, badminton, netball, indoor football, bowls, table tennis and volleyball. Golf, full-bore target shooting, cricket, running, archery and athletics are also popular.
There are many youth groups, including Rainbows, Brownies, Scouts and Girl Guides, as well as sports and conservation clubs for younger people. Stanley Harbour provides a base for sailing, windsurfing, jet-skiing and kayaking, and there are a number of wreck dives available for underwater enthusiasts. Other outdoor activities include walking, riding, motocross and fishing. Popular dates in the calendar are the annual horse-racing meet at Christmas, and Sports Week, traditionally held at the end of the shearing season.
Heritage
The people of the Falkland Islands trace their ancestry in the Islands over 200 years, some with family ties going as far back as nine generations.
The Islands are our home and over the years we have welcomed people from around the world who now share our way of life. We are proud of our identity, our heritage and we also celebrate our diversity.
We may be small in size but we successfully achieve our goals.
Nature is still in charge
The Falkland Islands is truly a special place on earth. Nature is still in charge with abundant colonies of birds and animals scattered around the archipelago. A variety of birdlife can be seen along the Stanley shoreline and a colony of penguins at only 15 minutes drive.
We also have the very unique stone runs (rivers of rock tumbling down the hillsides), stunning seas and fabulous sunsets.
Many rare species and large colonies of birds and animals make of the Falklands their home.
There is always something of the natural environment to enjoy. The sounds of the sea, the birds or the simple sound of silence which allows us to relax and enjoy the Falklands nature.
Further information
If you want to know more, please visit the Falkland Islands Government official website or the Falkland Islands Tourist Board.