Iceland

Iceland, a Nordic island nation, is exemplified by its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and lava fields. Enormous glaciers are protected in Vatnajökull and Snæfellsjökull national parks. The majority of the population lives in the capital, Reykjavik, which is powered by geothermal power and is home to the National and Saga museums, tracing Iceland’s captivating Viking history.

Iceland is a country of extreme geological contrasts. “The Land of Fire and Ice” has some of the largest glaciers in Europe as well as many of the world’s most active volcanoes. Short winter days with only a few hours of daylight are contrasted by long summer days with almost 24-hours of sunshine and the Midnight Sun phenomenon are the reason Iceland is known as the land of light and darkness..

The hub of Icelandic culture is the Icelandic language, which has birthed a literary tradition dating back to the ancient Icelandic Sagas. These are tales of violent blood feuds, traditions and family. The first Vikings settled in Iceland late in the 9th century AD. Iceland is modern country, but evidence of its history and rich cultural heritage are still visible everywhere making it a must see on many people's wishlist.