Did you know that swifts can (and do) stay airborne for up to four years? That’s not a happy thought for anyone who’s endured a cramped long-haul flight. But, of course, the lengthiest and most cramped of journeys is usually worth it in the end, and unless you’re heading for outer space, what seems like years is really only hours. Take Iceland, for example. You can be there in just over a day.
Iceland appeals to me big-time. The more I know about the place, the more I like it. I like the fact that there are only 283,000 people and almost every single one of them is Icelandic. I like that they don’t bother with surnames, even in the phone book. The scenery is full of surprises, and the people are great. The weather has its moments, but that's all part of the fun. And who doesn't love saying "Björk"? It rhymes so satisfyingly with work.
Photo by ezioman
Yes, Iceland is cool, and will soon be getting cooler, because its long, dark winter is on the way. Feel free to debate this, but I reckon Iceland is a really great winter destination. Here are 10 good reasons why:
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Sit in a snowbound outdoor hot tub and view the Northern Lights (August to March; at their best from November to February)
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Experience genuine Arctic Circle weather…and don't tell anyone in Oz that Iceland's average January temperature is higher than those in NYC
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Swim in the Blue Lagoon (yes)
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See the sort of snow you’ll never see at home
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Partake in strange winter festivals, most of which involve eating - lots
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Enjoy the nightlife and culture (opera, concerts, ballet, jazz); they're at their best
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Christmas celebrations are gorgeous: a sea of lights and no less than thirteen Santas (well, trolls)
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New Year’s Eve is fantastic and so is Twelfth Night (January 6): public bonfires, fireworks, Arctic skies
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Already the cutest things on four legs, Iceland's small, rare horses reach peak cuteness in winter
- Even on the darkest winter days, it's not compulsory to wear a lopapeysur. However, you might find you want to, despite what they say on Jaunted.
Photo by jerrroen
Still not convinced? There's more. Icelanders enjoy one of the highest life expectancies in the world; maybe a little of it rubs off on their visitors. English is widely spoken …with a charming accent. The crime rate is one of the world’s lowest. And Iceland is a misnomer – remember those geography lessons? It’s Greenland that’s icy and Iceland that’s (sometimes, partially) green. Here’s another fact, almost as startling as those long-flying swifts: Iceland has a similar climate to parts of ...wait for this...Italy! Namely, Milan. You can believe that or not – and no doubt you will, if you’ve ever experienced midwinter with the Milanese
To help you kick-start your plans here's an overview of Iceland on Trip Advisor. Plus, here's a list on the Iceland Express blog about 5 things to remember when visiting Iceland.
Sjáumst! (See you later!)
Photo by ezioman