by Poppy, age 9 from Stanley, Falkland Islands, asks Santa about texting him, the islands’ South Atlantic location, and their British traditions.
Dear Santa, my name is Poppy, and I am nine years old. I live in Stanley, Falkland Islands, where my dad says our whole remote little territory sits way out in the South Atlantic Ocean, closer to South America than to Britain.
Dear Poppy, a remote island territory like yours makes for one of the most far-flung, adventurous stops on my entire route, your dad picked a truly hardy hometown.
Santa, I have three questions.
Can I text Santa? My little brother wants to send you a quick message instead of writing a whole letter.
A proper letter still works best for reaching me, Poppy, since my workshop reception can be a bit spotty way out at the North Pole. Tell your little brother a short, sweet letter carries just as much magic as any text.
My dad says the Falkland Islands are actually much closer to South America than to Britain. Is that true?
It is true, Poppy, the Falkland Islands sit in the South Atlantic much nearer to South America, despite being a British Overseas Territory. I always enjoy that remote, wind-swept approach on my way to visit you.
My dad says even though we are so far away, our little community still keeps a lot of British traditions alive. Is that true?
It is true, Poppy, the Falkland Islands maintain strong British traditions and community spirit, even from such a remote corner of the world. That kind of steady, proud identity, no matter the distance, is really worth admiring.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Poppy Middleton
Stanley, Falkland Islands
P.S. Will you tell my brother a letter is worth the extra effort?
Already told, Poppy, some things are worth doing the old fashioned way.
