Galapagos Islands: A Natural Wonderland

• HelloHola
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• GoodbyeAdiós
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• YesSí
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• NoNo
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• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
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• Thank youGracias
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• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
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• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
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• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
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• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
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• I don't understandNo entiendo
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• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
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• I don't eat meatNo como carne
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• Cheers!¡Salud!
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• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-REE-ah pah-GAHR, pohr fah-VOR]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
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• Go away!¡Vete!
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• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
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• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
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• I'm lostEstoy perdido
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• I'm illEstoy enfermo
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• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
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• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
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• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
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• That's too expensiveEso es muy caro
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• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
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• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
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• It's one o'clockEs la una
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• Half past (10)Las diez y media
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• MorningMañana
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• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
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• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
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• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
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• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-LEH-toh (ah)]

The Galápagos Islands were discovered in 1535 by Fray Tomás de Berlanga, the Bishop of Panama, who accidentally stumbled upon the archipelago when his ship was blown off course while sailing to Peru. The islands were initially named 'Insulae de los Galopegos' (Islands of the Tortoises) due to the large number of giant tortoises encountered by Berlanga and his crew.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, the Galápagos Islands became a hideout for pirates and buccaneers who used the islands as a base from which to raid Spanish galleons. By the 18th century, whalers and fur sealers frequented the islands, exploiting their rich marine resources and leading to significant declines in local wildlife populations.

In 1835, the HMS Beagle, carrying the young naturalist Charles Darwin, arrived at the Galápagos Islands. Darwin spent five weeks studying the islands' unique flora and fauna, observations which later contributed to his groundbreaking theory of evolution by natural selection as articulated in 'On the Origin of Species'.

In 1832, three years before Darwin's visit, Ecuador officially claimed the Galápagos Islands, naming them 'Archipiélago de Colón' (Columbus Archipelago). General José de Villamil led the first colonists to the islands, establishing a penal colony on Floreana Island, which marked the beginning of Ecuadorian governance in the archipelago.

During World War II, the United States established a military base on Baltra Island, known as Seymour Island. The base played a strategic role in defending the Panama Canal from potential Japanese threats, and its presence significantly impacted the local economy and infrastructure.

In 1959, the Ecuadorian government declared 97% of the Galápagos Islands' land area as a national park, marking the start of concerted conservation efforts. The Charles Darwin Foundation was also established in the same year, dedicated to the preservation of the islands' unique ecosystems and wildlife.

In 1978, the Galápagos Islands were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing their exceptional natural beauty and ecological significance. This designation has helped to further international conservation efforts and promote sustainable tourism in the archipelago.

The Galapagos Islands are located about 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) off the coast of Ecuador. The main gateway to the islands is through Quito or Guayaquil, Ecuador. From there, you can take a flight to one of the two main airports in the Galapagos: Baltra Island (Seymour Airport) or San Cristóbal Island (San Cristóbal Airport). LATAM and Avianca are the primary airlines offering these flights. Due to the special environmental protections in place, it is advisable to book your flights and accommodations well in advance.

Once you arrive in the Galapagos, transportation between islands is typically done by boat or small aircraft. Public ferries operate between the main islands of Santa Cruz, San Cristóbal, and Isabela. On the islands, taxis are available and relatively inexpensive; most are pickups that can take you to various destinations. Alternatively, you can rent bikes or walk, especially in smaller towns. Guided tours are also a popular and convenient way to explore the islands.

The official currency in the Galapagos Islands is the US Dollar (USD), as in mainland Ecuador. Credit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz), Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristóbal), and Puerto Villamil (Isabela), but it’s a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas.

The Galapagos Islands are generally safe for tourists. However, standard precautions should still be taken. Avoid displaying valuable items and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. While the islands do not have high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, it's best to stay vigilant, especially at night. Always follow park guidelines and respect wildlife to ensure both your safety and the preservation of the ecosystem.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Each of the main islands has medical facilities, although the most comprehensive services are available in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and Puerto Baquerizo Moreno on San Cristóbal Island. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Avoid high heels or dressy attire, as the islands' environment is casual and rugged. Religion: Do respect local customs, though the islands are not heavily religious. Public Transport: Do be punctual; boats and tours run on strict schedules. Don’t try to negotiate fares on public ferries. Greetings: Do greet people with a simple 'Hola' or 'Buenos días.' A handshake is also appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood and traditional dishes. Don’t waste food, as resources on the islands can be limited.

To experience the Galapagos Islands like a local, visit local markets for fresh produce and seafood. Engage with the residents, who are typically friendly and knowledgeable about the islands' history and ecosystem. Don’t miss opportunities to explore lesser-known sites and trails, which can offer a more intimate experience with nature. Participate in local festivals if your visit coincides with any, as they provide insight into the island culture and traditions.