Page 19 - Explore Your AAA – AAA Southern Pennsylvania – Summer 2022

EXPLORE | SAFETY & SECURITY SUMMER EDITION 2022
Iceland: Scandinavian Land of Fire and Ice
Shaped by the powerful forces of nature – glaciers, volcanoes and the mighty Atlantic Ocean – Iceland is perhaps best described as a land
of contrasts, both geologically and culturally.
Glacier ice and cooled lava cover approximately one-tenth of the country’s total area. The island
nation is home to approximately 200 volcanoes and one of Europe’s largest glaciers (Vatnajökull), as well as an abundance of thermal springs. These conditions have created resilient people, with strong bonds to their naturally beautiful surroundings. The cosmopolitan capital city of Reykjavik is known for its cultural liveliness, modern architecture and exceptional cuisine. The best way to get acquainted with Reykjavik is to walk through the old section of the city,
with its towering Hallgrimskirkja church and harbor.
Venturing beyond Reykjavik, the
spectacular route known as Golden Circle takes you to many of Iceland’s renowned wonders: Thingvallir’s rift valley, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet; Gulfoss waterfall, a stunning 100-foot double cascade; and
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the fountain geyser known as Strokkur. Visit the Friöheimar greenhouse cultivation center to learn how the Icelanders grow delicious pesticide-free vegetables with the aid of geothermal energy.
In the ancient town of Húsavik, be sure to visit the whaling museum. Then gear up in thermal wear to do some whale watching on Skálfandi Bay. Aboard specialized boats, get as close to whales as you can in northern Iceland. You may
see the humpback, minke, orca, fin or even the giant blue whales that frequent these waters.
Along Diamond Circle, a scenic circuit that covers
more than 160 miles, marvel at stunning waterfalls and Lake Myvatn, the Blue Lagoon of the north. Enjoy time exploring the warm, mineral-rich geothermal waters of this man-made lagoon.
Are you ready for a place unlike any other? Experience the otherworldliness of the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, with its landscapes of black sand beaches, stunning cliffs, mountain peaks, volcanic craters, plunging waterfalls, rocky coastlines and tiny fishing villages.
With all of these adventurous experiences – and so many more – Iceland presents an unparalleled vacation. Add to this the warmth and friendliness of the Icelanders, and you will clearly see the depth of the Scandinavian spirit.
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