In late November 2005 I was privileged to be able to fulfil one of my childhood dreams by visiting the Galapagos Islands.

Brought to international acclaim by Charles Darwin's visit of 1835 this archipelago is home to some of the most unique life forms on the planet which have evolved in response to their harsh surroundings and relative isolation.

The opportunity to get up close to the remarkable flora and fauna of these remarkable islands is one that I can highly recommend. Snorkelling alongside sealions, penguins, marine iguanas and green turtles as well as the amazing array of tropical fish are memories I will truly cherish.

Anyone interested should visit the website www.galapagos.org to become aware of the difficulties involved in maintaining the delicate balance of nature's fragile ecosystems alongside the effects of an increasing human population. A very clear reminder to those that need it of our responsibilites in managing the needs of both human and other species fight for survival.