Dedicare colleague Marthe has visited the Falkland Islands, “If you’re looking for a life-changing adventure, and love nature and animals – this is the place for you”
Our Dedicare colleague, Marthe, recently visited the Falkland Islands and had the pleasure of meeting several of our clients and partners based there. Curious about her experience? We’ve asked Marthe to share some insights from her trip to give you a flavour of what Falkland Island life has to offer.
How was your journey to the Falkland Islands?
It was absolutely fantastic. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure! It’s surreal to think I’ve actually been there, it’s a not a place many can say they’ve visited. I won’t sugar coat it; it took a while to get there. I started my journey in Norway, so the Falklands are basically the other side of the world – but what an experience!
We travelled via the Royal Air Force Airbridge, departing from the military base, RAF Brize Norton, with a layover in Ascension Islands military base in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Both flights combined took around 18 hours. There’s usually plenty of space on these flights, and most passengers had a spare seat next to them. They feed you regularly, and if you bring some entertainment and sleep for a few hours, time soon flies by!
What happens when you get there?
When you’re through customs, you have the option to travel by taxi or bus to Stanley – which takes around 40 minutes. Islanders are friendly and used to visitors, and permanent residents certainly know a new face when they see one!
What was the atmosphere like on the islands?
It’s an ‘everyone knows everyone’ kind of place. Kids play freely in the streets and gardens, people walk their dogs, and neighbours chat over the garden fence. I felt safe from the second I arrived.
What were the highlights of your trip?
Being surrounded by amazing wildlife was an incredible experience, but what really stood out to me was how clean and unspoiled the environment is. People are in tune with nature and appreciate what they have. Life is less about following the latest home interiors trends, and more about living in the moment.
How would you describe the collaboration between Dedicare and the islands?
It felt like a mutual partnership built on trust. It’s no secret that the community are deeply dependent on medical staff from the ‘outside world’, and it’s impressive to see the huge part Dedicare play in providing that healthcare.
What would you say to future consultants considering the Falkland Islands?
Go for it! If you’re looking for a life-changing adventure, and love nature and animals – this is the place for you. You won’t find massive shopping malls and night clubs here, but you WILL find miles of untouched landscapes, thousands of penguins, and a community of people you’ll never forget.
Cover image by Cath Livingstone