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Iceland

Travel Experiences Iceland

Discover the Magic of Iceland

Iceland is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, perfect for those who love the outdoors. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Iceland offers something for everyone. From dramatic landscapes to unique geothermal wonders, this country is full of unforgettable experiences. If you're feeling adventurous, driving in Iceland is a great option, especially since traffic outside of Reykjavik is typically light. Rent a car and explore the country's diverse attractions at your own pace.

Travel Experiences Iceland

A Land of Natural Wonders

Iceland is known for its spectacular scenery, shaped by geological activity. With volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls, the country offers an abundance of natural attractions. But Iceland’s appeal goes beyond its landscapes—it's a place rich in culture, history, and a fiercely proud nation.

Travel Experiences Iceland

Unique Language and People

The Icelandic language, spoken by only about 320,000 people, remains very close to the Old Norse language of the original settlers. Though it might sound strange to English speakers, there are similarities in sentence structure and vocabulary. Iceland’s population is a mix of Norwegian and Scottish heritage, with Viking roots and Celtic influence, creating a fascinating cultural blend.

Travel Experiences Iceland

Icelandic Cuisine

Icelandic cuisine might be an acquired taste for many. Traditional dishes are certainly different, but you’ll find that Reykjavik offers a wide range of international cuisines. The local hot dog, however, is said to be the best in the world, particularly when enjoyed at a street cart in Reykjavik, where even Bill Clinton has been spotted savoring one.

Travel Experiences Iceland

History and Culture

Icelanders take great pride in their heritage. The first settler, Ingóflur Arnarson, arrived from Norway in 874, and the island’s 36 chieftains held their first assembly at Þingvellir in 930. This area is historically significant, not only as a gathering place but also because it's where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.

Iceland remains a geological hotspot, and geothermal energy plays a huge role in powering the country. Reykjavik, the northernmost capital in the world, draws all its electricity and hot water from a geothermal plant located 40 km away. This energy source is so reliable that 80% of the country’s electricity is generated through geothermal means, with the rest coming from hydroelectric power.

Travel Experiences Iceland

Top Attractions and Things to Do

Thingvellir National Park - National park in Iceland

Thingvellir National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this park is the location of Iceland’s first parliament and offers stunning views of the surrounding natural landscapes.

Gullfoss Falls - Waterfall in Iceland

Gullfoss Waterfall

A magnificent waterfall located in the Golden Circle route, Gullfoss is a must-see attraction.

Geysir Hot Spring, Iceland

Geysir Geothermal Area

The home of the famous Geysir, this geothermal area features erupting hot springs and steaming vents, offering a truly unique experience.

Airport Hotel Smari
Airport Hotel Smári – Keflavik, Iceland
A Convenient Hotel on Airport Grounds We flew through Iceland recently and overnighted at the Airport Hotel Smári.  It is conveniently located right on the grounds of the airport (Keflavik) serving Reykjavik.  This hotel is convenient if you if you need to stay in the Keflavik area or do not have time to visit Reykjavik […]
hilton reykjavik nordica
Hotel Review – Hilton Reykjavik Nordica
The Hilton Reykjavik Nordica is a very nice hotel centrally located just on the outskirts of Reykjavik. The nightly price was reasonable for Iceland, and the rooms were much larger than expected, decked out in traditional minimalist Scandanavian style.  The beds were comfortable, and everything worked perfectly.  We booked a couple of nice tours while there, […]

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Our Reviews

We are a Top Reviewer on TripAdvisor, where we provide unbiased reviews based on our personal experiences there, some of which are shared in our TravelNotes blog.

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