Experience the best this lovely country has to offer
The Republic of Iceland, is a European country located in the north Atlantic Ocean on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. Iceland is volcanically and geologically active; the interior mainly consists of a plateau characterised by sand fields, mountains and glaciers, and has many glacial rivers flowing to the sea through the lowlands. Iceland is warmed by the Gulf Stream and has a temperate climate despite a high latitude just outside the Arctic Circle.
The climate of Iceland’s coast is sub-polar oceanic. The warm North Atlantic Current ensures generally higher annual temperatures than in most places of similar latitude in the world. Despite its proximity to the Arctic, the island’s coasts remain ice-free through the winter.
Visit the largest pool in Iceland, Laugardalslaug Geothermal Pool, which contains the best facilities and fun things to do. ReykjavÃk’s heavenly pools (and beach) are the heart of the city’s social life: children play, teenagers flirt, business deals are made, and everyone catches up with the latest gossip. Volcanic water keeps the temperature at a mellow 29°C, and most of the baths have heitir pottar (hot pots), Jacuzzi-like pools kept at a toasty 37°C to 42°C. Children 6 to 15 are allowed in, and towels and swimming costumes can also be hired.
For relaxing views of the town and bay, head up the hill to the Library of Water. Housed in the old municipal library, this hallowed space flooded by natural light features a permanent exhibit by renowned American artist Roni Horn. Twenty-four glass pillars are scattered throughout the room, each one filled to the brim with locally sourced glacier water. Light is reflected and refracted through the aqueous tubes, and adjectives in both English and Icelandic are inscribed into the delicate floor.
Displays at the National Museum are well thought out and give an excellent overview of Iceland’s history and culture. The strongest section delves into the Settlement Era, with swords, silver hoards and a great bronze model of Thor on display. However, the most treasured artefact in the museum is a beautiful 13th-century church door, carved with the touching story of a knight and his faithful lion. Upstairs, you really get a sense of the country’s development over the following 600 years. Simple, homely artefacts that utilise every scrap.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take a mysterious night trip to witness the famous Northern Lights, one of nature’s most spectacular displays. The famous Northern Lights are visible from the start of autumn to the light nights of spring. On a clear night, you may be lucky enough to see the Northern Lights swirling in a wild and carefree dance across the heavens, painting dramatic shapes, colors and patterns on the night sky.
Just like any other culture, cuisine plays a vital part in the identity of a country. Important ingredients of Icelandic cuisine are lamb, dairy, and fish, due to Iceland’s proximity to the ocean. Popular foods in Iceland include skyr, hangikjöt (smoked lamb), kleinur, laufabrauð and bollur.
Þorramatur is a traditional buffet served at midwinter festivals called Þorrablót and containing a selection of traditionally cured meat and fish products served with rúgbrauð (dense dark and sweet rye bread) and brennivÃn (an Icelandic akvavit). Much of the taste of this traditional country food is determined by the preservation methods used; pickling in fermented whey or brine, drying and smoking.
The nightlife in Iceland is legendary for its energy and stamina. It is not uncommon at the weekend to spend the whole night partying at one of the city’s many nightclubs, known for their cool atmosphere and stylish patrons. There are nightclubs to suit a variety of tastes in terms of decor and music. Nightlife in ReykjavÃk usually takes place in pubs and nightclubs featuring dancing and live music. At weekends, unless you start before 11 PM, be prepared to wait in line, especially if the summer weekend weather is good; Icelanders party en masse.
