First impressions of Galapagos, by Brendan van Son

I'm a very fortunate person and have drifted around the world for a good portion of my life. Trying my best not to sound like a travel snob, I have to say that I spend the majority of my time in interesting and beautiful places that can only stir up one's sense of adventure.

The life of a travel writer is one of the most incredible ones that exists. However, I'd be lying if I said that I haven't felt, at times, like some people's great experience is just another day at the office for me. That sensation sometimes makes me worry if I'm becoming spoiled, or worse, apathetic to the beauty of my world and my lifestyle.

So when the rubber shoes of the airplane touched down on Baltra Island, the main airport of the famous Galapagos Islands I couldn't help but wonder what it is that makes this place such a massive draw for tourists? I have seen some fascinating places that I have had all to myself, that few people have any desire to visit. However the Galapagos Islands are on nearly everyone's bucket list and, as I'm finding out, it is for very good reason. I am starting to realise why the Galapagos Islands are mentioned in the same breath as an Antarctic expedition or an African safari as one of the world's great travel experiences.

My journey
I'm halfway through my eight- day journey aboard the Darwin, cruising through the Galapagos Islands on the Complete Galapagos trip with Gecko's Adventures. It seems that every single day brings a unique experience. Each landing means the arrival of a new adventure, a new sighting and a stand-alone experience.

Yes, I have only explored for four days but it seems like much longer. The experiences I've had within just a few days on the islands feels like a year's worth. In just four days we have trekked to spot great birds like albatross, boobies and hawks. We have dipped into the cool waters of the ocean to swim with stingrays, giant marine turtles and more fish than one could ever imagine. We have played on the beach within the company of hundreds of sea lions and watched dolphins play in the wake of our boat.

The coming days
This account is merely scratching at the surface of my adventure. Over the next couple weeks I will be describing through words and my seemingly countless photographs from the trip about my experience both here on the Gecko's blog as well as my own personal webpage. I will have articles about the wildlife of the Galapagos, the underwater world, some tips for travellers, a look at the day in the life aboard a Galapagos expedition boat and much more.

I hope that you continue to follow along with my experience. As I learn each and every day a little bit more as to why this is such a sought after tourism experience. I hope that through my words and photographs that you will get a bit of an insight as to what this incredible place is really about.  

About the Author: Brendan van Son is a travel writer and photographer currently on assignment on the Complete Galapagos trip with Gecko's Adventures. Stay tuned for some great articles and photos from one of the most incredible places on earth. Brendan was robbed of over $3000 worth of camera gear while travellig recently. We are sorry to hear of this, and you can leave wishes of support over at his website, Brendan's Adventures.

Have you been to the Galapagos Islands? What were your first impressions. Tell us about them in the comments section below, Or head to twitter and Facebook to upload images. 

Take a look through all our trips to the Galapagos Islands for inspiration, and don't forget that a $250 deposit will secure your place! 

• Tweet