Page 14 - AAA Northway – AAA Now! – January/February 2017

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ICeLAND – A Very Hot and Cool Destination
By Kerstin Nordin, Iceland Travel
With editing and additional content by Craig Haberle, CTC
Fire & Ice – Hidden Powers and Northern Lights
Iceland is closer that you think – and more fun than you may have ever dreamed possible. This Mid-Atlantic island is the USA‘s closest European neighbor. Raw forces of nature – glaciers, volcanoes and ocean – have been forging and shaping the face of Iceland for 20 million years, and they are still hard at work.
As an island the size of Kentucky, with a current population
of only 330,000, Iceland has a long history of survival and
prosperity. Iceland was first settled by Irish monks in the 9th
century and by Norsemen and Vikings from Scandinavia in
the 10th. Long overlooked by migrating populations, military
bases of World War II brought this isolated country into the
contemporary world. Now, Iceland is considered cutting edge for its cultural arts and eco-consciousness.
Whether you are intrigued by Iceland‘s internationally-renowned sites such as the Blue Lagoon and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, its world-class music scene, or the broad range and beauty of its nature and scenic vistas, this island nation is catering to these many interests and finding itself at the top of travelers‘ lists of places to visit.
To appreciate the expanse of the exotic charisma of Iceland, consider a guided tour that visits the city of Reykjavik, explores the coastal attractions, and reveals the remote and rugged hinterlands.
First, discover the major highlights of Reykjavik, the world‘s northernmost capital, a “Capital of Cool“ as well as a UNESCO Literary Capital. It is a culturally active city with authentic adventures and activities nearby. With a friendly population of 120,000, most of whom speak English, Reykjavík is not a whirlwind metropolis, but it is very cosmopolitan. Although few skyscrapers grace the skyline and traffic jams are rare, don’t be deceived – a steady beat of energy and events keeps the city alive and pulsing with excitement, pure energy, thriving culture, sparkling nightlife, and culinary treasures – all in a creative atmosphere.
Then, head out of the city to explore the countryside and South Iceland‘s natural wonders: icebergs, hot springs and volcanoes that dominate the country‘s beautiful, yet rugged, landscape. On a guided coach tour, you will experience the hidden powers of the island, including views of the notorious Eyjafjallajokull volcano and the breathtaking glacial lagoon.
With a stay of several nights in stunning rural locations, you will be perfectly situated to watch for the magical Northern Lights. Although widely seen during recent years, these colorful light displays cannot be guaranteed since they are a natural phenomenon and dependent on weather.
Benjamin Franklin theorized that the mystery of the Northern Lights was caused by a concentration of electrical charges in the polar regions intensified by snow and other moisture. The first Old Norse account of “norðrljós” is found in the Norwegian chronicle Konungs Skuggsjá from AD 1230, which claims that the ocean was surrounded by vast fires, that the sun flares could reach around the world to its night side, or the glaciers could store energy so that they eventually became fluorescent. The Northern Lights, also known as Polar Lights, are usually seen from late September until the beginning of April and can be viewed in Iceland in most places, but best in dark evenings away from city lights in the countryside on nights with clear skies.
Iceland’s south coast is home to some of the country’s most popular attractions. The coastline itself is renowned for its beauty, and the towns along the coast
are famous for their fresh seafood. From wonderful waterfalls to great glaciers, the South has it all. With the Golden Circle route connecting Þingvellir National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Gullfoss and the Great Geysir in the same area, it is a very popular destination for visitors.
Farther east along the shore, you will find Skógafoss Waterfall, Skaftafell National Park, Jökulsárlón Glacial Lagoon, Vatnajökull Glacier, and several other natural wonders. The South is also rich in history and culture. Events from Iceland’s legend- laced history narratives, known as sagas, are remembered and represented in many ways along the coast, and several museums in the area celebrate local customs and heritage. With much of the country’s agricultural products coming from the area, the South contributes significantly to Iceland’s prolific and creative restaurant culture.
No matter why you are drawn to Iceland, the friendly folks of this isolated island extend a warm welcome and invite you to be inspired by their country and by your experiences during your visit in their homeland.
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january/february 2017
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