Page 8 - AAA Now – AAA Central Penn – March/April 2022

AAANOW!
Iceland &
The Blue Lagoon
Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice,” exhibits a geological diversity of incredibly stark contrasts. Thundering waterfalls and effervescent geysers share landscapes alongside tranquil glacial lagoons and enormous lava fields. This exotic environment creates spectacular scenes and presents visitors to the island with a unique insight into Earth’s geological evolution.
An Iceland vacation will provide an opportunity to discover just how dramatically diverse our planet’s landscapes can be. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular sites for travelers.
Northeast of Reykjavik, the Golden Circle route leads to the geographically, historically, and culturally significant Thingvellir National Park. At this UNESCO World Heritage site, you see the effects of Continental Drift revealed where the shifting of North American and Eurasian tectonic plates altered the landscape, creating massive cracks or faults in the Earth’s surface. On
this site was the Althing, the ancient official assembly of Icelandic chieftains, documented as established in 930 AD, it is considered the oldest existing parliament in the world.
Impressive photo opportunities exist to capture nature in action at the world-famous hot springs area of Geysir. Wait just a few minutes for Strokkur geyser to erupt and you witness an explosive column of water and steam spout between 10 and 40 meters high. Gullfoss, which translates as “Golden Waterfall,” so named due to the radiant color it displays in particular circumstances of natural light, is located nearby.
Iceland’s South Coast is home to spectacular waterfalls and Eyjafjallajökull, a stratovolcano completely covered by an icecap that feeds numerous glaciers. Take your time during a visit of the Skogar Folk Museum to gain cultural insights to Icelandic history and social heritage.
Provided the right atmospheric conditions and a clear night sky, you might be fortunate to see the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. Your best chances to be dazzled by this unpredictable phenomenon is during the span of months from September to March.
About 50 minutes from Reykjavik, the capital city, is the popular Blue Lagoon, which offers the opportunity to bathe in an “oasis of relaxation.” The water is maintained at a temperature
of 99-102 degrees Fahrenheit – perfect for relaxing! Naturally
occurring silicate minerals in the water are the primary cause of the lagoon’s milky blue color.
Natural wonders are so abundant in Iceland, it’s no wonder travelers return again and again. However, not all the delights of Iceland are found in its vast, undeveloped countryside. As the country’s cultural, political, and social capital, Reykjavik is also alluring with its many attractions.
SEPTEMBER 17 – 23, 2022
FROM $3,349* PER PERSON, DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
HIGHLIGHTS
Reykjavik | The Golden Circle | Harpa Concert Hall | Hallgrimskirkja ¨Church Waterfalls at Hraunfoss and Barnafoss| Snaefellsjokull Glacier | The Golden Waterfall of Gullfoss | Thingvellir National Park | Blue Lagoon
For reservations and information, contact your local AAA Travel Agent at 888-743-2844.
*Rates are subject to availability at time of booking and include taxes, fees and fuel surcharges which are subject to change. All pricing and included features are based on a minimum of 15 passengers. Airfare is currently not included in the price of the trip. Airfare will be added when rates and schedules become available and may have a different payment and cancellation schedule from the land portion of the trip.
8 I MARCH/APRIL 2022 I DISCOVERIES EDITION