Travel Explorer Magazine Issue 4

‘... it was time for us to
vacate this particular
Galapagos Island and return
to our vessel for our next
adventure.’
Galapagos Islands, by Oliver
Fascinated by the remote landscapes, I’d
wandered off alone for a moment on Isla
de la Plata. As I looked back towards our
small group, I noticed a few waving hands
in the distance led by our expert naturalist
Eduardo…along with the rumble of moans
and groans from the plethora of sea lions
adorning the white sandy beach, I got the
feeling it was time for us to vacate this
particular Galapagos Island and return to
our vessel for our next adventure.
I’d spent the last few hours exploring
what can only be described as one of the
most beautiful, natural places on Earth.
Having travelled extensively for work I’d
been seeking a truly back to nature, away
from it all experience for a while and the
Galapagos Islands certainly provided
this. Each island is very different with
indigenous species living in their own
habitats unchanged since Darwin’s time.
A typical day around the islands is similar
to that of being on safari (minus the crazy
early mornings). After breakfast we’d
board the small zodiac boats to take us
to shore and each morning a different
terrain, landscape and adventure awaited
us in the form of an expert-led walking
tour for an hour or so. The rest of the
morning would include free time on the
island or further guided walks, kayaking,
snorkelling or simplistic quiet time to
soak in your surroundings and totally
disconnect from the world.
The highlight for me were the blue footed
boobies, we were able to get so close and
they danced and performed for us with
absolutely no hesitation. We swam with
turtles, marvelled at the Albatross and
stayed very still as the Marine Iguana
crossed our path. We posted letters back
home in the famous post box and sat
mesmerised by the sweeping sunsets that
rounded off our stay with pure perfection.
Galapagos Islands Fact File
Where: The Galapagos Islands lie off the
coast of Ecuador.
How to get there: Around 12 hours flight to
Quito (capital of Ecuador and great for a
few nights stop-over) then a 1.5hr flight
onwards to the islands.
Where to stay: The best way to travel
around the islands is by boat and various
duration cruises are offered. I cruised for
3 nights but I would recommend around 5.
If boats are not your thing, you can stay on
one of the main islands and explore from
there.
Price range: from around £3,499 per
person including flights, transfers and 5
nights cruise on full board basis.
Other Blue Planet inspirations...
Oman, by Nathan
Home to a fascinating ship-wreck off
the coast near the Shangri-La Al Husn
Resort & Spa, if you like diving this is a
great place to explore, plus it’s perfect for
winter-warmth with a great beach and
resort facilities for adults and families
(separate hotels for each), but less built
up than Dubai for example. The capital
Muscat offers traditional souks and you
can also experience a desert safari nearby.
5 nights from £1,099 per person.
Antarctica
One of the ultimate travel explorer
destinations with over 14 million square
kilometres of snowy expanse; the perfect
natural habitat for an array of exciting
wildlife. Take in the Falkland Islands
and South Georgia on this special oneoff
luxury cruise departure featuring
special lectures and casual talks led by
onboard experts brings to life the history
and geology of the region. You’ll follow
in the tracks of Ernest Shackleton and
Sir Francis Drake, learn valuable tips to
help you photograph glaciers, penguin
colonies and even the occasional whale,
while gaining a deep understanding of
scientific efforts to protect this unique
habitat. From £14,480 per person.
Costa Rica, by Sam
My visit to Costa Rica followed that of
Thailand where I spent time with the
Elephants in a well-respected sanctuary.
I was keen to further my knowledge of
wildlife destinations and Costa Rica
offered this plus beautiful beaches, lush,
tropical interiors and plenty of activities
to keep you busy. Famous for its turtles,
I’d highly recommend it to those who like
to explore and learn on holiday, and for
families with older children and teenagers
- adventure is in the air on Costa Rica so
keep it in mind if that appeals to you. 11
nights escorted tour including flights,
accommodation and comprehensive tour
programme from £1,995 per person.
Pacific Islands
Many of the stunning shots in the
documentary were captured in the South
Pacific. The islands lend themselves very
well to diving and can be combined well
with a visit to New Zealand or Australia.
Responsible Tourism
It goes without saying it’s important we
respect the destinations we visit, and we
work closely with The Travel Foundation
who promote ethical practises regarding
tourism. Learn more at http://www.
thetravelfoundation.org.uk.
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