Galapagos

Spectacular is another overused word that applies to Galapagos, as is the word unique. If you have more time than money go to Quito and search the main drag for travel agencies; each will have a last minute bulletin board and you can find a last minute cruise to Galapagos at half price.

Of all the places in all the world, the Galapogas has to be one of the most amazingly wonderous destinations that man will ever have the opportunity to visit. My week-long trip there just wasn't long enough and I disembarked wanting to do the whole trip over again. In the morning I would be snorkeling with reef sharks, tropical fish, penguins and sea lions in the crystal clear warm blue waters. In the afternoon I would be on one of the islands sunbathing alongside the sea lions or watching one of the hundreds of Frigat birds puffing out its red breast in search of a mate.

The variety of species on the islands is truly astounding. I have never experienced so much wildlife within such a small area, and what is exceptional is that the wildlife here has no fear of man because on these islands man has never been considered a threat, so the wildlife will come so close to you that you could touch them. Alongside this Darwin's theory of evolution can be experienced first hand. It is amazing to see the way in which the animals have evolved slightly differently on each island in order to ensure their survival. The iguana on one island for example has learnt to swim, whereas on another island it has developed a black skin to hide itself within the volcanic rock, all this over millions of years. I cannot recommend the Galapogas strongly enough to anyone interested in an exotic destination which will expand your mind.