Exploring the Falkland Islands – A Morning with Peacehaven Chamber

Dear Peacehaven Chamber Team,

Wow, wow, wow indeed! What a brilliant morning—thank you so much for inviting me to speak at the breakfast meeting. It was an absolute pleasure to share my experiences in the Falklands with such an engaged and enthusiastic audience.

The warm reception, fantastic turnout, and lively discussions truly made the event special. I’m delighted to hear that my talk sparked curiosity about this remarkable part of the world, and who knows—perhaps a few of you will be booking a trip soon!

A huge congratulations on welcoming three new members to the Chamber—Drew, Sharon, and George. It’s great to see the Chamber growing and thriving.

For those who missed it or would like to revisit some of the highlights, here’s a recap of my presentation, The Falkland Islands – A Land of Wind and Wonder:

The Falkland Islands – A Land of Wind and Wonder

Set in the South Atlantic, the Falkland Islands consist of over 640 islands, rich in history, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.

• Stanley – The Capital of the Falklands The charming capital, Stanley, retains its British character with Victorian terraced houses, iconic red telephone boxes, and a strong community spirit. It was awarded City status in May 2022 in honour of the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

• A Legacy of Conflict and Resilience The Falklands War of 1982 remains a poignant part of the islands' history. After 73 days of occupation, British forces successfully liberated the islands. In 2022, the Falklands were finally declared landmine-free—a testament to the resilience of the people.

• Life on the Islands Life in the Falklands is unique, with a small but tight-knit community, a “rush hour” of just 40 vehicles, and weather that can change in an instant—ranging from 20-degree sunshine to waist-deep snow.

• Wildlife Like No Other The islands are home to extraordinary wildlife, from the bold caracara birds and speedy sea lions to the endearing penguins, which remain a visitor favourite.

• The Falklands Spirit Above all, it is the warmth of the Falklanders that leaves a lasting impression. Their pride, hospitality, and love for their home make any visit unforgettable.

Once again, my sincere thanks to the Peacehaven Chamber team for the wonderful opportunity to present and connect with such a fantastic group. I look forward to catching up with everyone at a future event!

And as a final thought, I leave you with this quote from the information boards on the Falkland Islands—a message to carry with you whenever you explore the world's natural wonders:

Take nothing but photos, leave nothing but footprints.

See you all soon!