Page 4 - AAA Central Penn – AAA Now! – March/April 2019

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Greenland & Iceland:
An Otherworldly Nordic Wonderland
Floating across the indigo waters of Disko Bay, taking in a panorama of still and raw wilderness in the distance. Ambling across moss-covered
lava fields of Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park, breathing in the crisp, clean air. Losing yourself in the beauty of Gullfoss Waterfall, feeling humbled by the power and majesty of such a natural wonder. Sailing past the mammoth Eqip Sermia Glacier to watch as blankets of ice calve and crash into frigid waters. Being graced with nature’s most spectacular and colorful shows, the Northern Lights. Spectacular moments like these are what await you in Greenland
and Iceland
– two Nordic
countries
brimming with
enchantment.
Iceland has
quickly risen
to the top of
travelers’ must-
see lists for its
epic natural
wonders forged
from swathes
of lava fields
and glacier-
filled waters.
And thanks to the Golden Circle – a driving
route that encompasses many of Iceland’s most renowned natural wonders – most of the country’s natural gems are easily accessible, including the Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall and Geysir Geothermal Area. With just a day trip along this route, you’ll be mesmerized by disparate
landscapes that are best described as ethereal. Iceland just doesn’t fascinate for its stunning
landscapes, however. When walking through the capital city of Reykjavík, you’ll see just how natives transformed the island from a humble settlement for Vikings to a bustling place complete with modern architecture, fascinating visual art and delicious cuisine.
With its proximity to Iceland, it only makes
sense to make your journey truly unforgettable and continue on to another breathtaking Nordic country: Greenland. Considered the world’s biggest
non-continental island with
the sparsest population, Greenland offers remote, natural beauty at its finest.
But between
the seemingly endless expanses of frozen tundra and cool waters, the pockets of tiny charming towns brimming with color and life
are what make this country shine.
One such town with vibrancy and quaint charm
to spare is Sisimiut. Here, humble wooden homes in a rainbow of hues cling to the craggy terrain. On a leisurely walk through the town, you’ll discover the historic Colonial Quarter, Sisimiut Museum, the iconic Blue Church and the bustling city center.
If you venture farther north of the Arctic Circle into the southern waters of Disko Bay, you’ll find yourself in Qeqertarsuaq, Disko Island (or “The
Big Island”). Nestled in Disko Bay, the island’s landscape is a delightful combination of steep basalt mountains, verdant swathes of greenery and glittering glaciers.
Speaking of glaciers, the Eqip Sermia Glacier has to be one of Greenland’s most stunning natural wonders found in Disko Bay. Stretching over three miles wide, the Eqip Sermia Glacier is one of the most active glaciers in Greenland. Brilliant shades of white and blue make this gargantuan block of ice a truly magnificent sight to behold.
For even more of an immersive introduction to Greenland’s people, leave the resplendent Disko Bay behind for the remote settlement of Itilleq. Approximately 100 people live here, making their living off of fishing, trapping and hunting. Take
a stroll through this charming hamlet and learn how locals have worked to preserve their unique traditions and Inuit heritage.
Even if you don’t consider yourself an outdoors enthusiast per se, Iceland and Greenland will make you reconsider your stance. Yes, you might have to cross some uneven terrain to get a glimpse of some of these breathtaking sights, but you’ll never regret your journey once you hear the roar of the Gullfoss Waterfall or discover the magnitude and beauty of the Eqip Sermia Glacier. If you’ve been looking for a getaway that’s a bit unexpected, more of a far-flung adventure, then Iceland and Greenland should make their way to the top of your must-travel-to list. Experience it for yourself on AAA Members Choice Vacations’ 9-day Greenland & Iceland: A Nordic Inspired Voyage getaway.
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MARCH/APRIL 2019 – DISCOVERIES EDITION
Now!