Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Welcome to Iceland
The energy is palpable on this magical island, where
astonishing natural phenomena inspire the welcoming,
creative locals and draw an increasing number of visitors in
search of splendour.
A Symphony of Elements
An under-populated island marooned near the top of the globe, Iceland is, literally, a coun-
try in the making. It's a vast volcanic laboratory where mighty forces shape the earth: gey-
sers gush, mudpots gloop, ice-covered volcanoes rumble and glaciers grind great pathways
through the mountains. Its supercharged splendour seems designed to remind visitors of
their utter insignificance in the greater scheme of things. And it works a treat: some crisp
clean air, an eyeful of the cinematic landscapes, and everyone is transfixed.
The Power of Nature
The power of Icelandic nature turns the prosaic into the extraordinary. A dip in the pool be-
comes a soak in a geothermal lagoon, a casual stroll can transform into a trek across a glit-
tering glacier, and a quiet night of camping may mean front-row seats to the aurora boreal-
is' curtains of fire, or the soft, pinkish hue of the midnight sun. Iceland has a transformative
effect on people, too - its sagas turned brutes into poets; its stories of huldufólk (hidden
people) may make believers out of sceptics. It may just have the world's highest concentra-
tion of dreamers, authors, artists and musicians, all fuelled by their surrounds.
A Personal Experience
A visit is as much about the people as it is about the landscapes. The warmth of Icelanders
is disarming, as is their industriousness - they're working hard to recover from financial up-
heaval, and to transform Iceland into a destination that, thanks to its popularity with visit-
ors, can host triple its population each year. Pause and consider a medium-sized city in your
country - then give it far-flung universities, airports and hospitals to administer, 30-odd act-
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