Falkland Islands
About Falkland Islands
| Currency | Falklands Pound (FKP) |
| Language | English |
| Capital | Stanley |
The Falkland Islands are a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean on the Patagonian Shelf. The main islands are about 300 miles (483 kilometres) east of Southern Argentina and include East Falkland, West Falkland, as well as 776 smaller islands. The population of 3,398 (2016) inhabitants is primarily native-born Falkland Islanders, and the majority are of British descent.
The Falkland Islands are self-governing. The head of state is the reigning monarch of the United Kingdom, represented by a governor. The governor appoints a chief executive who serves as the head of government. The United Kingdom is responsible for foreign affairs and defence.
The French established Port Louis on East Falkland in 1764 but ceded its claims to Spain in 1766. The British settled West Falkland in 1765 but were driven off by the Spanish in 1770.
There is a question as to whether Spain’s claim to the Falkland Islands actually passed to Argentina at some point. Both Argentina and the United Kingdom have some historical precedent for claiming the Falklands. British sovereignty is solidified by the British victory in 1982, coupled with the popular referendum in which the population voted to remain a British territory.
Cruise ships bring the largest number of tourists to the islands. The biggest attraction is the unspoiled wildlife. The Falklands boast over 200 species of birds, 4 species of seals, 5 species of penguins, along with whales and dolphins.
Recommended Vaccinations For Falkland Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with friends and family.
Recommended Medications For Falkland Islands
There are no recommendations for Falkland Islands at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Falkland Islands
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B
There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in this country.
For Some Travellers
Tuberculosis
Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with a sick person.
Hanta Virus
There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.
Measles
There is a risk of acquiring Measles in this country.
Rabies
The Falkland Islands is free of dog rabies. However, it may be present in bats. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) may be at risk.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in this country, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where water and food may not be safe.
Safety & Security in Falkland Islands
Personal Safety
The crime rate is very low. Exercise normal precautions and ensure that your personal belongings, passport, and other travel documents are secure at all times.
Weather conditions are unpredictable and can change rapidly. Be prepared for all types of weather.
Keep a safe distance from animals, such as seals and sea lions. They can be dangerous when they feel threatened. If the animal notices your presence, you are probably too close.
For road travel, a four-wheel-drive vehicle is required. Exercise caution when driving due to very strong winds, particularly on the road between Mount Pleasant Airport and Stanley. Deadly accidents have occurred on this road.
The laws requiring seat belts and prohibiting drinking and driving are strictly enforced.
Attitudes toward same-sex relationships are very tolerant, and discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is illegal. Exercise caution due to the presence of unexploded landmines dating back to 1982.
