ICELAND

Fast Facts  capital: Reykjavik  population: 313,183 (July 2012)  languages: Icelandic, English, Nordic languages, German  ethnic groups: descendants of Norse and Celts 94%; foreign origin 6%  religions: Lutheran Church of Iceland 85.5%; Roman Catholic 2%; other or unspecified 12.5%  100,250 km 2 of land and 2,750 km 2 of water  land elevation: 0 m – 2,119 m  government: constitutional republic  currency: Icelandic Krona (1 CAD = ISK)  life expectancy, literacy (99%), income, and social cohesion are first rate by world standards

 Iceland is the closest European nation to Canada and the U.S.  When flying from New York City (4.5 hrs), there is no jet lag!  Almost everyone speaks fluent English.  Reykjavik has a bustling nightlife, exciting arts scene, all the modern conveniences, a high quality of life, and world class services; and in only a 15 minute drive, you will be in the middle of wild nature!  A valid passport is required when travelling to Iceland.

Brief History  Iceland was settled in the 9 th century (874) by Norse Vikings.  It is said that Leif Ericsson named Iceland and Greenland as they are so that explorers would go to Greenland (mostly ice) and not come to or settle in Iceland, so that the island would be for his people only  The Norse developed their own sense of national identity by creating the first parliamentary system in 930.  Over the next centuries, people of Nordic and Celtic origin settled in Iceland and the country experienced power hungry leaders, wars, trade monopoly, poverty, and natural disasters, such as volcanic eruptions.

 From 1262 to 1814, Iceland was part of the Norwegian monarchy and suffered a number of epidemics that decreased the population. From 1814 to WWII, it was part of Denmark, operated by the Danish king.  The independence movement started in the early 19th century, but the country didn’t reach full independence from Denmark until  In 2007, Iceland was ranked as the most developed country in the world by the United Nations’ Human Development Index.  Iceland is currently a member of the United Nations, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, the European Free Trade Association, and the European Economic Area. Iceland may join the European Union in 2011,

Climate  Unlike its name, Iceland doesn’t get very cold due to the Gulf Stream (ocean currents bringing warm waters to the country).  Iceland enjoys a cool temperate ocean climate with cool summers and mild winters.  Temperatures range from approximately 0°C – 15°C throughout the year.  The wind is constantly blowing and can change the weather unexpectedly.

Culture and Local Customs  Iceland’s cultural life has tremendous vitality.  Strong Icelandic tradition and international culture thrive side by side to weave a rich tapestry of delights and experiences.  Icelandic food is the product of a pristine, unspoiled natural environment (ie. seafood, milk products, lamb, reindeer, etc.)  Music plays a large role in Iceland’s culture (symphony orchestra, opera, musical theatre, concerts, etc.).  Art museums and galleries are found throughout Iceland, showcasing the country’s colourful history.  Only about 10% of Icelanders have surnames; instead, “son” or “dottir” is added to the first name of the father.

Tourism in Iceland  If you are interested in nature, Iceland is a great place to visit. In the summer, many companies offer guided bus trips that will take you around the country.  Another alternative is to ride horseback across the highlands. The terrain in Iceland is so rugged due to centuries of volcanic activity.  Hotels are going to be rather pricey, like most things in Iceland. However, you can find some lovely youth hostels, and camping space is easily available in the summer time.

More on Tourism  Despite what its chilly-sounding name might suggest, Iceland does not freeze to a halt in winter. Average January temperatures in many parts of Iceland are actually higher than those in New York and, in a sense, much of Iceland's cultural life bursts into bloom from autumn to spring, before the long bright nights and the main travel season begin.  Outdoor life goes on as usual in Iceland throughout winter, with horseback riding and sightseeing all year round, including thrills such as snowmobiling and river rafting. Some sports even take on an added flair in winter - like swimming in a geothermally- heated outdoor pool, in a blizzard!

Things to do in Iceland...  visit Reykjavik (cosmopolitan capital)  go to the Blue Lagoon  visit Geysir (location of the geyser for which geysers are named)  whale watching  glacier tours  historic monuments and buildings  skiing, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, river rafting, swimming  air tours