Q Magazine - Spring 2020

Bucket List Moments By land and sea around the Galapagos by Diana Carcassonne A medieval citadel that has been beautifully preserved by Jo D iana was fortunate enough to have a trip of a lifetime to the amazing Galapagos Islands which are located off the coast of Ecuador. These islands were made famous when Charles Darwin landed in 1835 and based his ‘Theory of Evolution’ on his findings there. These islands are a natural zoowhere unusual species exist free and fearless of man. You can swimwith young sealions and white tipped reef sharks and observe the iconic giant tortoises, penguins, the striking blue footed boobies, marine and land iguanas, and seabirds such as the albatross, the frigate bird amongst many other species. She was able to experience both a stay on land and at sea, staying first at Finch Bay Eco Lodge on Santa Cruz island, which is a wonderful beachfront base fromwhich to explore the wildlife of the islands andwhichmight suit those who are not found their sea legs. Then a superb stay on the Elite Catamaran , which is the newest luxury yacht in the archipelago and has only 10 cabins and offers 3 - 7 night cruises of the Western, Central and Eastern Islands. Each spacious suite features grandwindows with panoramic ocean views, private balcony, en-suite bathroomand comfortable king sized beds, making it the perfect place to relax after exploring the islands. There is a bar and interior lounge and an al-fresco dining area, both of which have extended outdoor balconies so you will never miss a view. The sky deck is a great area to unwind at the end of the day with an outdoor lounge, bar, dining area, sunbeds and a whirlpool jacuzzi. Guests of all ages will enjoy these cruises with fantastic naturalist guides to answer any questions and fill you in the local wildlife. You can take panga rides through the mangroves, snorkel and take hikes on remote islands to some stunning view points. Another land based stop was at Pikaia Lodge ; a Relais&Chateaux hotel located back on Santa Cruz which is a stunning property with fantastic views, specialising in eco adventures – a great choice for the environmentally conscious. Experiences J o has visited Carcassonne in France where she stayed in a farmhouse with a group of friends. Carcassonne is a hilltop town in southern France’s Languedoc area, famous for its medieval citadel, La Cité, with numerous watchtowers and double- walled fortifications. The first walls were built in Gallo-Roman times, with major additions made in the 13th and 14th centuries. Château Comtal, a 12th-century castle within the Cité, offers archaeological exhibits and a tour of the inner ramparts. There are some elegant hotels in Carcassonne and some wonderful restaurants. 22