Sitting between Europe and North America, Iceland is a mountainous, North Atlantic island. Although this land can be quite harsh, it is certainly a country of natural majesty and austere beauty. Eruptions of lava, geysers, hot springs, fissures and glaciers make Iceland seem untouchable, but it is a very popular tourist site. Settled in the 9th century, by the Nordic and Celtic people, Iceland has an ancient history. A Norwegian Viking, by the name of Ing?lfur Arnarson, originally settled on what is present day Reykjavik, or Iceland?s capital.
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is one of the most famous attractions for tourists. Although it is thought these lights are only visible in winter, the truth is they can be seen all year long. Another of Iceland?s attraction is the Midnight Sun. When this occurs in Scandinavia, during early summer months, the sun is visible at midnight. Its opposite is called the Polar Night, and occurs during the winter months.
Reykjavik City, Iceland?s capital is usually a stop on most itineraries. Reykjavik is one of the cleanest, greenest cities in the world, and the nightlife is lively. The numerous pubs, bars, cafes and dance halls, provide amazing variety, and live music is becoming this city?s trademark. In fact, at least one concert is available every night. The Kringlan shopping mall is quite popular, as well, as are the many local craft shops and Scandinavian designer stores.
Of course, if you go to Iceland, you must try one of the many whale-watching tours. The ocean around Reykjavik is a natural haunt for whales, dolphins and seals. Your tour will probably take you past Puffin Island, as well. Reykjavik?s landmark is the Perlan, or Pearl. Built in 1988, it sits under a large glass dome on top of huge tanks, which store the natural hot water for heating the city. The dome houses a rotating restaurant, with first-rate cuisine and a breath-taking view.
If you are into Viking history, you simply have to investigate some of Reykjavik?s museums. The Sun Voyager is another stop you will want to make. It is a massive steel sculpture of a Viking ship, created by Jon Gunnar Arnason, and it is found on Mt, Esja. Make sure to view it at sunrise or sunset. Also, make the time to stop at the Restaurant Fjorugardurinn. Set up in Viking fashion and offering a customary Viking feast, this distinctive restaurant lets you to step back in time and experience some memorable Viking culture.
If you have the time, don?t miss another of Iceland?s top tourist attractions, The Blue Lagoon. This outdoor, geothermal seawater pool, can be found about 45-minutes from Reykjavik, and is worth a trip. The steam-covered, fluorescent blue pool is 104-degrees all year long.
Iceland offers tourists a wide variety of inimitable experiences, all of which both enchant and awe. Both strikingly and strangely severe, a trip to Iceland is simply unforgettable.
The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is one of the most famous attractions for tourists. Although it is thought these lights are only visible in winter, the truth is they can be seen all year long. Another of Iceland?s attraction is the Midnight Sun. When this occurs in Scandinavia, during early summer months, the sun is visible at midnight. Its opposite is called the Polar Night, and occurs during the winter months.
Reykjavik City, Iceland?s capital is usually a stop on most itineraries. Reykjavik is one of the cleanest, greenest cities in the world, and the nightlife is lively. The numerous pubs, bars, cafes and dance halls, provide amazing variety, and live music is becoming this city?s trademark. In fact, at least one concert is available every night. The Kringlan shopping mall is quite popular, as well, as are the many local craft shops and Scandinavian designer stores.
Of course, if you go to Iceland, you must try one of the many whale-watching tours. The ocean around Reykjavik is a natural haunt for whales, dolphins and seals. Your tour will probably take you past Puffin Island, as well. Reykjavik?s landmark is the Perlan, or Pearl. Built in 1988, it sits under a large glass dome on top of huge tanks, which store the natural hot water for heating the city. The dome houses a rotating restaurant, with first-rate cuisine and a breath-taking view.
If you are into Viking history, you simply have to investigate some of Reykjavik?s museums. The Sun Voyager is another stop you will want to make. It is a massive steel sculpture of a Viking ship, created by Jon Gunnar Arnason, and it is found on Mt, Esja. Make sure to view it at sunrise or sunset. Also, make the time to stop at the Restaurant Fjorugardurinn. Set up in Viking fashion and offering a customary Viking feast, this distinctive restaurant lets you to step back in time and experience some memorable Viking culture.
If you have the time, don?t miss another of Iceland?s top tourist attractions, The Blue Lagoon. This outdoor, geothermal seawater pool, can be found about 45-minutes from Reykjavik, and is worth a trip. The steam-covered, fluorescent blue pool is 104-degrees all year long.
Iceland offers tourists a wide variety of inimitable experiences, all of which both enchant and awe. Both strikingly and strangely severe, a trip to Iceland is simply unforgettable.
About the Author:
Graham McKenzie is the content coordinator for the leading UK Flight Comparison website, which offers detailed information on Booking a Flight from the UK.
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