Most people might not come up with Iceland as their first choice when it comes to deciding on vacation destinations. Unfortunately, it’s just not a country that puts out a classic vacation vibe. However, anyone who takes a closer look will recognize what a fantastic adventure is waiting for them in this land of unspoiled beauty and power.
Iceland
The world wide economic downturn has affected Iceland in a fairly bad way. Though there are other areas that are facing difficulties, Iceland has really taken a beating. The entire country recently filed for bankruptcy, and while this may be bad for them, it’s excellent news for the thrifty traveler.
The dollar is now worth double what it was worth back in May of 2008. The year of 2008 saw the exchange rate at 77 Krona to 1 dollar. Now the exchange is in the area of 113 Krona for every dollar. What this all means, of course, is that the dollar goes so much farther in Iceland than it may in other vacation destinations.
Let’s take a look at some of the awesome places to visit while stretching that dollar.
ReykjavÃk
Despite the negative effect that the world’s economy has thrown to Iceland, the capital city remains one of the most expensive in the world. Icelandic culture is based heavily in beauty, technology, and design. Whether visitors are walking routes through the uniquely colored, wooded houses of the old town, or visiting one of the numerous cafes, clubs, pubs, or restaurants, there are sure to be sights that will excite all eyes.
Glacial Adventures
For those looking for a slightly more adventure based experience, there is great excitement and fun to be found in trekking across Iceland’s glaciers. In the winter months the glaciers freeze solid in a way that allows for tourists to join expeditions run by trained professionals. Individuals can further explore their options of glacial traveling by looking in to companies that use dog sleds to traverse the expanse of glacier. What better way to appreciate the full grandeur of a glacier than by walking across it?
Gullfoss
This is Iceland’s most famous waterfall. After a scenic hike, visitors can take in the full spectacle that is the 105 foot cliff of rushing water. Because of a geologic anomaly, the cascading sheets of liquid spray high into the air, and on sunny days the spray creates a continuous rainbow effect on the edge of the break. It is truly a sight to behold.
The Blue Lagoon
By and far Iceland’s most famous tourist attraction, the Blue Lagoon is a geothermal pool which contains seawater that is heated and deposited into the lagoon. The name comes from the intensely milky blue color that the water takes on. Although the prices for use can be slightly steep, the incredible melding of nature, beauty, and technology are sure to make a visit to this wonder worth every last penny.
The Northern Lights
Iceland is perfectly situated for an intense viewing of the Northern Lights. With its dark skies and unobstructed views, Iceland is a premier location to take in this natural spectacle. From September until April, the lights can be seen dancing across the sky in all of their glory.
Thingvellir National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage site is simply nature at it’s finest. Residing on the spot where the North American and European continental shelf plates are pulling away from each other, it offers an interesting view of the natural world in constant motion. Though the nature reserve is a sight in itself, it is also interesting to note that the area hosts the original site of the world’s most long running parliament.
The Jokulsar Lagoon
The Jokulsar Lagoon was actually left in the wake of the melting Breioamerkurjokull Glacier. With some areas reaching depths of 623 feet, and the nomadic icebergs which drift through the lagoon year round, this is not a location that should be passed over by any tourist looking for a comprehensive experience of Iceland.
So there it is. A number of reasons to take a serious look at visiting Iceland, not the least of which, being that a vacation to the land of the midnight sun is cheaper than ever before. There are so many amazing sights to see and experience, anyone can see that Iceland is truly a vacation destination.
Bio: Evie Johnson writes for Assisted Living Today, a trusted source of information on senior care, including a comprehensive directory of both assisted living and alternative care type facilities all over the US.
