If you are thinking about taking a unique international vacation, you should consider traveling to the incredible Galapagos Islands. These spectacular islands, which are actually a series of volcanic islands, are home to some of the most interesting wildlife anywhere on the planet. You must have a valid United States passport is you wish to travel to the Galapagos Islands, however. If you need to get a passport renewals, you can simply go online and find a passport agency that will help you.
Passport Needs
A passport is a travel document that a person must present to customs officials when they travel overseas. Anyone who does not have their own individual passport will not be granted access into another country. Unlike in the past, even babies now must have their own United States passport. Keeping your passport safe while overseas is extremely important. If you lose your passport while abroad you will not be allowed back into America before you obtain a replacement United States passport.
Darwin And Natural Selection
When Darwin traveled aboard the HMS Beagle to the Galapagos Islands he was intent on learning about the unique habitat and what it could teach us about species. It turned out that his studies on the islands were some of the most important scientific observations of all time. His book, Origin Of Species, was and continues to be one of the most highly regarded scientific works of all time. In it, Darwin explains how species adapt and evolve through natural selection. Anyone who is interested in this subject must read this incredible book by Charles Darwin.
History Of The Islands
The Galapagos Islands although geographically young, have an extensive history. Many explorers, pirates, and misguided ships have ventured to the Galapagos. There is evidence that people settled in the Galapagos before the Spanish took it, however, it does not appear that they stayed long. The population of the island was estimated to be around 25,000 in 2006. The Charles Darwin Foundation founded in 1959 has been heavily involved in the ongoing research and conservation of The Galapagos Islands. In 1986 the ocean surrounding the islands was declared a marine reserve, making it the second largest in comparison with The Great Barrier Reef in Australia. The archipelago is also a whale sanctuary and ta UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as a biosphere reserve.
Things To Do
The Galapagos Islands are not exactly typical Spring Break destinations. There are no lavish hotels or expansive beaches. The great experience lies within the wildlife and the natural beauty of the islands. The animals are very adapted to human presence so you can get very close to the remarkable species. Watching sea lions play, viewing over marine iguanas, and swimming with sharks are just a few of the many amazing animal encounters you can experience in the Galapagos. You may even be lucky enough to see a Giant Tortoise who also met Charles Darwin.