Page 15 - AAA Northway – AAA Now! – Fall 2018

TRAVE
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ICELAND: SCANDINAVIAN LAND OF FIRE AND ICE
SBy Judie Karhan
haped 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 Europe's largest glacier (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 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 zodiacs, 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 over 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 see clearly the depth of the Scandinavian spirit.
with Italy
Contact your local AAA Travel Agent | 877.222.8283 | AAA.com
AAA Members Save $50 per person.
Italy’s Treasures
12 Days • 17 Meals • Starting at $2,949* (Small Group Tour – average 16-24 passengers)
Italian Lakes Region, Stresa, Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre, Lucca, Tuscan Countryside, Florence, Siena,
Wine Tasting, Italian Cooking Class, Bologna, Venice, Choice on Tour
On all air-inclusive tours, receive roundtrip home to airport sedan service†
*Rate is land only, per person, based on double occupancy, subject to availability, and includes AAA Member Benefit savings of $50 per person. †Not valid on group travel. Included in many U.S. cities within a 50 mile radius of more than 90 airport gateways. Service is available between 51 and 75 miles for a small fee. One transfer per room booking. Additional stops are not permitted on route. Other restrictions may apply; call for details. AAA Vacations® Complimentary Inclusion: Receive a $50 credit to use toward a pre-booked optional tour of your choice.
CST# 2006766-20 UBN# 601220855 Nevada Seller of Travel Registration No. 2003-0279
FALL 2018
15
Now!
fall in love...