The country of Iceland has become a popular and fascinating destination for travelers who are looking for something just a bit different from the usual tourist fare. The capital Reykjavik has a reputation for providing great nightlife and this has made it a trendy choice for young, adventurous travelers.
The landscape of Iceland is unique because although the main island is located near the Arctic circle and much of the land is covered by glaciers, it is also a land of active volcanoes and geysers. The geysers and volcanoes are a result of Iceland`s location on top of the geologically active Mid-Atlantic Ridge.
Iceland has learned to harness its geothermal power in order to produce electricity for its residents at very low rates. Although the country may seem isolated, the people of Iceland are very much interested in the most cutting edge technology in energy production and environmentalism.
The many geysers and volcanoes here not only help to create electrical power for the nation, but they also create numerous pools that are used as spas. The Blue Lagoon, named for its milky blue color, is considered the country`s most famous geothermal pool.
Most of the people who visit Iceland come during the summer months, but increasingly tourists are visiting in the winter as well. Since winter is considered the off-season for tourism, it is possible to book hotel rooms at far lower rates in winter than in summer.
Iceland is quite near the Arctic Circle so visitors must be prepared for very long hours of daylight in summer months and very short hours of daylight in the winter.
Visitors who come to Iceland in early September can take part in the annual round-up of sheep from their summer pastures in the hills to their winter homes. This has traditionally been a time of hard work followed by great revelry including dancing and drinking.
One of the outstanding features that can be seen in Iceland in winter is the spectacular display of Northern lights that can often be seen in the night sky. The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, are intense displays of flickering red, green, and blue lights that can often be seen in extreme northern latitudes on clear nights. The shimmering colors and dancing images are caused by solar particles interacting with the upper atmosphere of the earth.
There will be far fewer organized activities for visitors during the fall and winter months but those who come at that time can enjoy horseback riding, snowmobiling, or dog sledding in the hills and Icelandic valleys.
Other activities that will appeal to tourists in winter include fishing, touring glaciers, skiing, and visiting Iceland`s many pools and spas. Residents and visitors to Iceland love to soak in the warm thermal pools that are naturally heated by the earth while they watch the snow fall from the sky. Of course, the tourists who come to Iceland in the off-season will find the nightlife of Reykjavik just as enjoyable in winter as it is in summer. New Year`s Eve celebrations in the capital attract visitors who fly in from other countries just to take part in these festivities.
This Post is written by Baltic Travel Company – a UK specialist tour operator to the Baltic region, including the Baltic States, Russia and Scandinavia.