For those who admire art and culture, Reykjavik can be a paradise as it has got everything from ancient Icelandic sagas to the feel of modern Icelandic art. One can sense the continuous flow of soft music coming from some corner 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. Two main events of music and culture are organized every year in Reykjavik. They are the cultural night and the Reykjavik arts festival. Other than these two, numerous musical and cultural events are organized here all year round. Some of them are mentioned below.
Galleries
There are two types of galleries namely the general and the commercial gallery. Both these showcase a huge variety of arts ranging from archetypical Icelandic art to works done by modern and contemporary artists from Iceland. Exhibitions of foreign artists are also conducted here from time to time. Most of the art galleries are situated in Skolavordustigur and close to Laugavegur. Both these are very close to Reykjavik city centre. Entry to most of these art galleries is all free for local citizens. It is said about Icelandic art piece that an original one can be a best memento of your life
Museums
Glorious past of Iceland and its Vikings can be seen in many museums and galleries situated in Reykjavik. You can know every small fact connected with the history of Iceland at the national museum of Iceland whereas you can see a longhouse of the time of Vikings at the Reykjavik settlement exhibition. Moreover, you can get one on one with the literary history of Iceland at cultural house. Visual art is also developing in Reykjavik. The main galleries showcasing this are The National Gallery and The Three-Fold Reykjavik Art Museum. Many exhibition houses and small art galleries are present all around to increase the interest of visitors. Other famous exhibition area of Reykjavik are the open air folk museum, museum of photography and numismatic and electric and telecommunications museum.
Theater and opera
Reykjavik was selected as one of the most cultural cities of Europe in the year 2000 and still one cannot believe that it has held its reputation of being so. Reykjavik has numerous symphony orchestras, an opera house, many theatre companies and an Icelandic dance company which is very famous in Europe and North America. The capital city has accommodated two professional theatre companies and numerous amateur and independent groups. These two are the city theatre and the national theatre. These two groups have produced world class classics to very sharply done experimental works. Productions are all over Iceland and very often they get to see some production coming from some neighboring country. At the Icelandic opera house, one can hear the operas of all types. The specialty here is that here operas are sung in original with using Icelandic subtitles. The Icelandic dance company which lives in the city theatre focuses more in remixing traditional dance with a modern one.
Not only the citizens there but the visitors of Reykjavik also stay enchanted and captivated all year round by the continuous shows, performances and cultural happenings taking place there.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Reykjavik – the heart of the Icelandic economy
Till 1990, Iceland was a very slow runner in the race of developing their economy. It was only after 1990 that it gained momentum and is still running very fast towards becoming a developed and a self-sustained economy. The recoveries that Iceland’s economy has made are; it has one of the world’s highest growth rates, very low inflation rate and employment rate is very high. There are many factors that can be held responsible for such a rapid development but the main are correct resource management, stability in prices, upgradation of stock exchange etc. All these reforms came from the capital city so; we can say that the capital city Reykjavik is the biggest cause of such speedy growth of Icelandic economy.
Reykjavik – the capital of Iceland is a small city which can be seen very efficiently either by walking on your own or through public transport. Not only in Reykjavík, but you can also go around this city where there are number of tourist spots and they are minutes away from Reykjavik. It is a guarantee that the visitors will feel that the pure and natural energy is rejuvenating their mind and soul, whether it’s coming from nearby geothermal pool or from the natural green energy around the city. Reykjavik has everything that a big metro city often misses i.e. fun, space, clean air, nature and a blend of cultures. Reykjavik can be called a complete city as it also holds the very beautiful blend of modern and older cultures which are complimented by beautiful raw nature. It spread across the peninsula and Atlantic Ocean is surrounding from all sides. This view becomes very magnificent and glorious when viewed from an aero plane. You can navigate the entire city without a guide because people here are very friendly and welcoming. For them, a visitor is a God and they are ready to help you anywhere, anytime. Public transport system is not excellent but it can be rated as ‘very good’ because a very good network of city busses is plying between capital city Reykjavík and its suburb cities and taxis are available 24/7.
Most of the Icelanders live around Reykjavík and this is the reason why main government offices of Iceland are situated here. The Icelandic parliament, the main hospital of Iceland, the second largest airport, the University of Iceland, the national museum and many other important offices and institutions are situated in Reykjavík. The inclusion of all these and many others makes this city, a little bit more energetic and important than other cities in Iceland.
Reykjavik was just like other small towns of Iceland till twenty years back. It is in these two decades that it has grown into a full-fledged and very charismatic metro city which has shopping malls, very lively and sparkling nightlife, traffic jams like any other big city of the world, museums, cultural activities, good food, festivals and much more. This is the reason why Reykjavík has also gained independence, financially as well. People have become more lavish and love to spend money for good services.
In all, there is no doubt that Reykjavík has slowly developed into a charger for those whose batteries are out of order due to blind race of life. They can charge up their batteries here as this city contains everything that can make them feel that they are just born.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Reykjavik – the capital of Iceland is a small city which can be seen very efficiently either by walking on your own or through public transport. Not only in Reykjavík, but you can also go around this city where there are number of tourist spots and they are minutes away from Reykjavik. It is a guarantee that the visitors will feel that the pure and natural energy is rejuvenating their mind and soul, whether it’s coming from nearby geothermal pool or from the natural green energy around the city. Reykjavik has everything that a big metro city often misses i.e. fun, space, clean air, nature and a blend of cultures. Reykjavik can be called a complete city as it also holds the very beautiful blend of modern and older cultures which are complimented by beautiful raw nature. It spread across the peninsula and Atlantic Ocean is surrounding from all sides. This view becomes very magnificent and glorious when viewed from an aero plane. You can navigate the entire city without a guide because people here are very friendly and welcoming. For them, a visitor is a God and they are ready to help you anywhere, anytime. Public transport system is not excellent but it can be rated as ‘very good’ because a very good network of city busses is plying between capital city Reykjavík and its suburb cities and taxis are available 24/7.
Most of the Icelanders live around Reykjavík and this is the reason why main government offices of Iceland are situated here. The Icelandic parliament, the main hospital of Iceland, the second largest airport, the University of Iceland, the national museum and many other important offices and institutions are situated in Reykjavík. The inclusion of all these and many others makes this city, a little bit more energetic and important than other cities in Iceland.
Reykjavik was just like other small towns of Iceland till twenty years back. It is in these two decades that it has grown into a full-fledged and very charismatic metro city which has shopping malls, very lively and sparkling nightlife, traffic jams like any other big city of the world, museums, cultural activities, good food, festivals and much more. This is the reason why Reykjavík has also gained independence, financially as well. People have become more lavish and love to spend money for good services.
In all, there is no doubt that Reykjavík has slowly developed into a charger for those whose batteries are out of order due to blind race of life. They can charge up their batteries here as this city contains everything that can make them feel that they are just born.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Tips for driving safely in Iceland
Iceland is quite different from rest of the world and the same can be said when is comes to traveling in Iceland. Traveling is also very different in Iceland. Here in Iceland, everything i.e. road conditions, weather conditions and type of vehicle puts impact on the traveling. Road condition in Iceland is not that good or some would simply say – quite different as compared to other Nordic countries. Only highway number 1 is the paved road and is the widest in the country otherwise most of the other roads are narrow, steep and with very sharp turns. Hence, it becomes very difficult to drive for those who are unfamiliar with driving on these types of roads. When you are hiring a vehicle it is advised to choose the car very wisely and choose a vehicle that they are habitual of driving so that they can handle it in a more efficient manner.
Following are some tips to drive in Iceland if you have driven only on the broad roads of Los Angeles and London.
» Keep your vehicle at a very slow speed when you cross another moving vehicle, especially on a exasperate road.
» Always cut down on speed when the road is changed from paved to gravel road as many accidents are seen at such places all around Iceland. Drivers who are new with this condition must drive very carefully as there is very frequent chance of loosing control and driving off the road.
» Blind submits are very common in almost every part of Iceland so, it is strictly advised to keep very slow and always keep on right hand side of the road.
» It is seen all around Iceland that most of the roads are constructed on edges against winter snows. That’s why rollover accidents are very common when drivers drive fast and lose their control a little bit. Drivers should be very careful against these types of accidents and drive very slow.
» In summer season, light is available for 24 hours. Drivers should remember that they do not drive for too long hours otherwise they will get tired and might fall sleep or feel dizziness while driving. A slightest of mistakes like this can prove very fatal on roads of Iceland.
» In Iceland, prescribed speed limit is very important. In cities it is 27 MPH, outside cities, on paved roads it is 55 MPH and on unpaved roads it is 50 MPH. On roads like Iceland have, following speed limit is very important.
» Domestic animals often come on roads while grazing and roaming. Drivers should take care of them as they may be required to pay the damage to the owner and also the fine to the local authorities.
» Using hands free equipments is mandatory throughout Iceland if you want to talk on phone while you are driving.
» Driving after getting intoxicated from drugs or alcohol or any other thing is strictly prohibited.
» Just like the entire world, using seatbelts of front and back side is obligatory and this law is very strictly maintained in Iceland.
» Use of headlights is also mandatory while the vehicle is in operation. This is because headlights help vehicles to get noted faster.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Following are some tips to drive in Iceland if you have driven only on the broad roads of Los Angeles and London.
» Keep your vehicle at a very slow speed when you cross another moving vehicle, especially on a exasperate road.
» Always cut down on speed when the road is changed from paved to gravel road as many accidents are seen at such places all around Iceland. Drivers who are new with this condition must drive very carefully as there is very frequent chance of loosing control and driving off the road.
» Blind submits are very common in almost every part of Iceland so, it is strictly advised to keep very slow and always keep on right hand side of the road.
» It is seen all around Iceland that most of the roads are constructed on edges against winter snows. That’s why rollover accidents are very common when drivers drive fast and lose their control a little bit. Drivers should be very careful against these types of accidents and drive very slow.
» In summer season, light is available for 24 hours. Drivers should remember that they do not drive for too long hours otherwise they will get tired and might fall sleep or feel dizziness while driving. A slightest of mistakes like this can prove very fatal on roads of Iceland.
» In Iceland, prescribed speed limit is very important. In cities it is 27 MPH, outside cities, on paved roads it is 55 MPH and on unpaved roads it is 50 MPH. On roads like Iceland have, following speed limit is very important.
» Domestic animals often come on roads while grazing and roaming. Drivers should take care of them as they may be required to pay the damage to the owner and also the fine to the local authorities.
» Using hands free equipments is mandatory throughout Iceland if you want to talk on phone while you are driving.
» Driving after getting intoxicated from drugs or alcohol or any other thing is strictly prohibited.
» Just like the entire world, using seatbelts of front and back side is obligatory and this law is very strictly maintained in Iceland.
» Use of headlights is also mandatory while the vehicle is in operation. This is because headlights help vehicles to get noted faster.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Friday, August 31, 2007
Refreshing and completely unique Iceland
Iceland is a small island situated in the North Atlantic Sea and is recorded as the westernmost country of European continent. It lies 800 kilometers far from Scotland in northwest direction and 970 kilometers from Norway in west direction. The northern coast of Iceland is touching Arctic Circle just a bit. The position of Iceland makes it accessible by air and waterways only. Keflavík airport, Iceland’s international airport is connected with twenty big cities of Europe and America and delivers services of about 115 international flights in a week.
There are two words that can be joined with Iceland without any questions or doubts. They are refreshing and unconventional. The nature of Iceland is unscathed and becomes even more interesting and magical with the presence of spouting geysers, active volcanoes, plummeting waterfalls, huge mountains, vast lava grounds and some very beautiful lakes full of superstitious stories. The fjords, the glaciers and the highland plains provide the tourists’ with some spectacular and supernatural sights they will not get to see elsewhere in this world with the sense of complete silence and extreme nature. In case of man made beauties, the nightlife of capital city of Reykjavik is considered legendary and is one of the best in the world. It is supported by number of social and cultural activities that takes place there almost 24/7. The infinitesimal size of Reykjavik adds to the advantage as the entire city can be seen only by walking on foot.
For those who are in search of some high flying action, Iceland again stands ahead of all and offers huge natural spaces to enjoy most of the outdoor activities such as snowmobiling, horse riding, caves exploration, hiking, swimming, skiing, river rafting, kayaking and not to forget driving on mountains on an enhanced four wheel drive. Iceland also presents great differences in flora and fauna at every mile and hence, it is a numero uno loved spot for ornithologists. One thing which cannot go unnoticed while discussing about Iceland is the fact that it provides world’s best whale watching spots and destinations.
This country attracts tourists all around the year. People are drawn here naturally because of its diversification in landscape and also because of its vital energy and shades of lights and seasons that gives new scenes on every visit. Iceland is considered the world’s youngest country from geological point of view and is continuously growing in size. A volcanic explosion in 1963 on the southern shore of Iceland and it was named Surtsey. The latest explosion in Vatnajokull glacier occurred in 2004.
As told earlier that one can find every natural activity here next in the list is geothermal heating. It is one of the many subterranean activities occurring in Iceland. The flawless supply of geothermal heat is used very wisely and extensively for thermal spas, keeping house warmer during chilly winters. Iceland is second biggest user of geothermal energy in the world and it is marginally behind China.
Though the name appears very cool to the world but slowly and steadily, it has proved that, Iceland is not shy of showing what it has and what it is capable of having.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
There are two words that can be joined with Iceland without any questions or doubts. They are refreshing and unconventional. The nature of Iceland is unscathed and becomes even more interesting and magical with the presence of spouting geysers, active volcanoes, plummeting waterfalls, huge mountains, vast lava grounds and some very beautiful lakes full of superstitious stories. The fjords, the glaciers and the highland plains provide the tourists’ with some spectacular and supernatural sights they will not get to see elsewhere in this world with the sense of complete silence and extreme nature. In case of man made beauties, the nightlife of capital city of Reykjavik is considered legendary and is one of the best in the world. It is supported by number of social and cultural activities that takes place there almost 24/7. The infinitesimal size of Reykjavik adds to the advantage as the entire city can be seen only by walking on foot.
For those who are in search of some high flying action, Iceland again stands ahead of all and offers huge natural spaces to enjoy most of the outdoor activities such as snowmobiling, horse riding, caves exploration, hiking, swimming, skiing, river rafting, kayaking and not to forget driving on mountains on an enhanced four wheel drive. Iceland also presents great differences in flora and fauna at every mile and hence, it is a numero uno loved spot for ornithologists. One thing which cannot go unnoticed while discussing about Iceland is the fact that it provides world’s best whale watching spots and destinations.
This country attracts tourists all around the year. People are drawn here naturally because of its diversification in landscape and also because of its vital energy and shades of lights and seasons that gives new scenes on every visit. Iceland is considered the world’s youngest country from geological point of view and is continuously growing in size. A volcanic explosion in 1963 on the southern shore of Iceland and it was named Surtsey. The latest explosion in Vatnajokull glacier occurred in 2004.
As told earlier that one can find every natural activity here next in the list is geothermal heating. It is one of the many subterranean activities occurring in Iceland. The flawless supply of geothermal heat is used very wisely and extensively for thermal spas, keeping house warmer during chilly winters. Iceland is second biggest user of geothermal energy in the world and it is marginally behind China.
Though the name appears very cool to the world but slowly and steadily, it has proved that, Iceland is not shy of showing what it has and what it is capable of having.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Business growth and development in Iceland
Iceland can more be called a volcanic island rather than a country and it lies in the northern direction in Atlantic ocean, eastern direction of Greenland and just south of the arctic circle. Its distance from New York is about 4200 kilometers [2600 miles] and 830 kilometers [520 miles] from Scotland. About 79 percent of total land in Iceland is covered by glaciers, lakes, mountainous lave deserts and other wastelands. Despite of all these unsettling facts standard of living in Iceland is one among the highest of the world. For many decades, the economy of Iceland totally depended on fishing and other jobs related to it. It is still the major proportion of the exports of Iceland; it is around only 10 percent of gross domestic product. The economy of Iceland is growing all because of growth of sectors like I.T sector, tourism and banking and finance.
As told earlier, Fishing products are the major exported items of Iceland. Other important exported things include aluminum, ferrosilicon alloys, equipments and electronic items for fishing and the process of fishing and pharmaceuticals. Services and areas related to information technology and life sciences are the fastest growing sectors of Icelandic economy. Major part of things exported from Iceland goes to EU [European Union] and EFTA [European Free Trade Association]. These two European associations are followed by America and Japan. Note, that till now, America is the largest foreign investor in Iceland and is also the biggest supplier of services like financial and franchise services, movies/ TV programs, music, tourism etc. The agricultural sector of Iceland is very subsidized and kept very personal.
Iceland has very less mineral power resources. The huge availability of hydro-electric and geothermal electricity allows more than 90 percent of population to get electricity and heating to get some relieve in cold and chilly weather of Iceland. The Karahnjukar hydroelectric power station is the biggest power station in Iceland supplying more than 690 megawatts. The other power stations are station at Burfell [capacity of 270 megawatts], Hrauneyjarfoss [capacity of 210 megawatts], Sigalda and Blanda [150 megawatts]. They are also in search of supplying electricity to mainland Europe through marine cable. Similarly, aluminum industry is also on the rise in Iceland. Nordural aluminum plant is the largest aluminum plant which is owned by Century Aluminum Company of California. This plant gives employment to more than 450 people and its production has reached to 220000 tons per year.
Iceland does not have railway tracks. The process of constructing roads formally began in 1900 A.D and got speeded up in past ten years or so. The total length of roads in Iceland is 13000 kilometers [8125 miles] and paved roads are 4330 kilometers [2706 miles]. These roads connect most of the populated centers which are around coastal areas. Regular flights and ships and ferries connect all the main cities with the capital Reykjavik.
The national airline of Iceland, Icelandair connects this country to all major European cities and also to North America. This company is also one of the country biggest employers. Iceland became the member of EFTA [European Free Trade Association] in 1970 and signed an agreement with European Union in 1973 which stated that Iceland is also a member of free trade in European community.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
As told earlier, Fishing products are the major exported items of Iceland. Other important exported things include aluminum, ferrosilicon alloys, equipments and electronic items for fishing and the process of fishing and pharmaceuticals. Services and areas related to information technology and life sciences are the fastest growing sectors of Icelandic economy. Major part of things exported from Iceland goes to EU [European Union] and EFTA [European Free Trade Association]. These two European associations are followed by America and Japan. Note, that till now, America is the largest foreign investor in Iceland and is also the biggest supplier of services like financial and franchise services, movies/ TV programs, music, tourism etc. The agricultural sector of Iceland is very subsidized and kept very personal.
Iceland has very less mineral power resources. The huge availability of hydro-electric and geothermal electricity allows more than 90 percent of population to get electricity and heating to get some relieve in cold and chilly weather of Iceland. The Karahnjukar hydroelectric power station is the biggest power station in Iceland supplying more than 690 megawatts. The other power stations are station at Burfell [capacity of 270 megawatts], Hrauneyjarfoss [capacity of 210 megawatts], Sigalda and Blanda [150 megawatts]. They are also in search of supplying electricity to mainland Europe through marine cable. Similarly, aluminum industry is also on the rise in Iceland. Nordural aluminum plant is the largest aluminum plant which is owned by Century Aluminum Company of California. This plant gives employment to more than 450 people and its production has reached to 220000 tons per year.
Iceland does not have railway tracks. The process of constructing roads formally began in 1900 A.D and got speeded up in past ten years or so. The total length of roads in Iceland is 13000 kilometers [8125 miles] and paved roads are 4330 kilometers [2706 miles]. These roads connect most of the populated centers which are around coastal areas. Regular flights and ships and ferries connect all the main cities with the capital Reykjavik.
The national airline of Iceland, Icelandair connects this country to all major European cities and also to North America. This company is also one of the country biggest employers. Iceland became the member of EFTA [European Free Trade Association] in 1970 and signed an agreement with European Union in 1973 which stated that Iceland is also a member of free trade in European community.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Icelandic – a language with a strong heritage
The popularity of Iceland’s tourism sector is growing day by day and this ever increasing popularity is encouraging more and more people to turn towards this small country in northern Europe to spend their summer and winter holidays. If you are planning to go in summer, which is the best time to visit there, you must take care of necessary reservations of flights and accommodations in hotels. Also do not forget to book the tickets of cultural and art shows that take place there in summer season only. Through these shows one can get the closer view of Iceland and its language.
The most used language of Iceland is “the Icelandic” and it is one of the very famous Nordic languages group. This group is the sub-group of the Germanic languages. Normally, Germanic language is divided into two groups i.e. North Germanic or Nordic languages and West Germanic. Iceland was first inhabited in around 870 A.D and most of the first visitors were from Norway [west Norway], Sweden and Ireland. Some Celtics were also in the earliest arrivals to Iceland. The language that became the most popular in Iceland was that of the people of Norway. Some traces of Celtic language are also visible in Icelandic language. The only words borrowed from Celtic language are some personal names and some names of places. Till 14th century Icelandic and Norwegian language was almost same. It was after 14th century that they became totally different from each other. This change occurred due to significant changes in the language of Norway. Icelandic language didn’t change and this was due to rich Icelandic literature that was written in read in the same language in 12th and 13th centuries. Now it is said that not even a single word has changed in Icelandic language that’s why the texts written in twelfth century can be read by a ten year boy even now. Another quality of Icelandic language is its uniformity i.e. the absence of dialects. But, Icelandic language has seen a huge change in its phonetics.
Because of its closeness to North America Icelandic is quite popular there. There are many in North America that speaks Icelandic language. These communities came into existence because there was huge immigration of people between Iceland, Canada and America right from the final 25 years of nineteenth century and the initial years of twentieth century. The first immigration is said to have started as early as 1855 but it started on huge amount only after 1870. It is said that first small colony of Icelanders was set around Lake Michigan in Washington in 1870. In 1875, Icelanders reached Canada and formed their first colony there on the west shore of Lake Winnipeg “also called new Iceland”. Many of same colonies were formed in Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia. Till now also hundreds and thousands of people there can still read, write and speak Icelandic language.
Since nineteenth century, language purism has been the national policy of the government of Iceland. According to this policy, they have decided that instead of using foreign words for new things they will coin the new words [neologism] or will revive the old words and use them after giving then new meanings. The Icelandic committee for language is responsible to guide government and public in general regarding the matters of language based on scholarly basis.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
The most used language of Iceland is “the Icelandic” and it is one of the very famous Nordic languages group. This group is the sub-group of the Germanic languages. Normally, Germanic language is divided into two groups i.e. North Germanic or Nordic languages and West Germanic. Iceland was first inhabited in around 870 A.D and most of the first visitors were from Norway [west Norway], Sweden and Ireland. Some Celtics were also in the earliest arrivals to Iceland. The language that became the most popular in Iceland was that of the people of Norway. Some traces of Celtic language are also visible in Icelandic language. The only words borrowed from Celtic language are some personal names and some names of places. Till 14th century Icelandic and Norwegian language was almost same. It was after 14th century that they became totally different from each other. This change occurred due to significant changes in the language of Norway. Icelandic language didn’t change and this was due to rich Icelandic literature that was written in read in the same language in 12th and 13th centuries. Now it is said that not even a single word has changed in Icelandic language that’s why the texts written in twelfth century can be read by a ten year boy even now. Another quality of Icelandic language is its uniformity i.e. the absence of dialects. But, Icelandic language has seen a huge change in its phonetics.
Because of its closeness to North America Icelandic is quite popular there. There are many in North America that speaks Icelandic language. These communities came into existence because there was huge immigration of people between Iceland, Canada and America right from the final 25 years of nineteenth century and the initial years of twentieth century. The first immigration is said to have started as early as 1855 but it started on huge amount only after 1870. It is said that first small colony of Icelanders was set around Lake Michigan in Washington in 1870. In 1875, Icelanders reached Canada and formed their first colony there on the west shore of Lake Winnipeg “also called new Iceland”. Many of same colonies were formed in Alberta, Saskatchewan and British Columbia. Till now also hundreds and thousands of people there can still read, write and speak Icelandic language.
Since nineteenth century, language purism has been the national policy of the government of Iceland. According to this policy, they have decided that instead of using foreign words for new things they will coin the new words [neologism] or will revive the old words and use them after giving then new meanings. The Icelandic committee for language is responsible to guide government and public in general regarding the matters of language based on scholarly basis.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Monday, July 30, 2007
Iceland, an experience of a lifetime
As the name suggests, most part of Iceland is covered by snow. It is recorded that almost eleven percent of Iceland’s total area is covered by snow and ice glaciers larger than life. It may sound very unfriendly and inhospitable but the fact is that the weather here in Iceland is very cozy and easy going. It suits tourists from any part of the world.
Iceland is located in northern most part of Europe. It is basically an island in north of Atlantic Ocean but a place one would wish to go again and again, if visited once. Entire Iceland is full of surprises for the tourists that pour down there whole year. There is a typical start to Iceland’s tour, but surprises come in wholesale once you enter Iceland. Some of the surprises are mentioned below.
Volcanoes - around the central plateau, there are more than one hundred volcanoes. Out of these almost forty are active. According to stats, there is a major volcanic eruption in every five years in Iceland. But, still Icelandic volcanoes remain one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe.
Mount Hekla is the most famous active volcano of Iceland. The last eruption in this volcano was recorded in the year 2000. Other famous active volcanoes are grimsvtn, kala, askja and krafla.
Vatnajokull - this is Europe’s biggest glacier and Iceland’s major tourist attraction. Its size is about 8300 square kilometers and it covers about 8 percent of Iceland’s total land. It is the highest point in Iceland. Its highest point is named hvannadalshnukur and is about 2119 meters above sea level.
Thingvellir national park - this park is one of the most visited places in Iceland. The fact that this park is situated in volcanic landscape makes it even more popular. During eruptions lava flows with the border of Iceland’s largest lake. One can see “the very rare” signs of tectonic plate’s movements.
Blue lagoon - it is also one of the most visited places in Iceland. The special fact about it is that it is a natural pool of hot water with temperature between 37 and 40 degree Celsius. Its location between moss covered lava fields makes it the most photographed place of Iceland. Blue lagoon is also famous for its beneficial effects on health. This is another reason why it attracts people from all around the world.
Northern lights of Iceland - perhaps, this is Iceland’s top tourist destination in summers. The reason why is because Iceland is the perfect destination to watch these northern lights or “aurora borealis”, popularly called in Iceland. It is nature’s most spectacular and surprising event. Iceland has the privilege to be in the most active part of this magic of nature. But these northern lights are visible only on the nights when the skies are all clear.
Gullfoss waterfalls of Iceland - people of Iceland believe that this waterfall is the most beautiful place on earth. They are one hundred percent right. Gullfoss is a double folding waterfall and one of the very few in the world. It thunders around thirty two meters over the fault towards its gorge. Its gorge is 2.5 kilometers long and as deep as seventy meters at some places.
Reykjavik: the capital - how can one forget Reykjavik, when on a tour to Iceland? It is one of the world’s most clean and peaceful cities. It has got a blend of contemporary and modern architecture. All colored in low and some bright paint, this city appears very friendly for tourists. It has got some old-fashioned buildings of eighteenth and nineteenth century. This presents the ancient side of this city.
Iceland is full of natural surprises and everyone should go their at least once in their lifetime to experience what you have never experienced and will never experience again in any other destination of the world.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Iceland is located in northern most part of Europe. It is basically an island in north of Atlantic Ocean but a place one would wish to go again and again, if visited once. Entire Iceland is full of surprises for the tourists that pour down there whole year. There is a typical start to Iceland’s tour, but surprises come in wholesale once you enter Iceland. Some of the surprises are mentioned below.
Volcanoes - around the central plateau, there are more than one hundred volcanoes. Out of these almost forty are active. According to stats, there is a major volcanic eruption in every five years in Iceland. But, still Icelandic volcanoes remain one of the most visited tourist destinations in Europe.
Mount Hekla is the most famous active volcano of Iceland. The last eruption in this volcano was recorded in the year 2000. Other famous active volcanoes are grimsvtn, kala, askja and krafla.
Vatnajokull - this is Europe’s biggest glacier and Iceland’s major tourist attraction. Its size is about 8300 square kilometers and it covers about 8 percent of Iceland’s total land. It is the highest point in Iceland. Its highest point is named hvannadalshnukur and is about 2119 meters above sea level.
Thingvellir national park - this park is one of the most visited places in Iceland. The fact that this park is situated in volcanic landscape makes it even more popular. During eruptions lava flows with the border of Iceland’s largest lake. One can see “the very rare” signs of tectonic plate’s movements.
Blue lagoon - it is also one of the most visited places in Iceland. The special fact about it is that it is a natural pool of hot water with temperature between 37 and 40 degree Celsius. Its location between moss covered lava fields makes it the most photographed place of Iceland. Blue lagoon is also famous for its beneficial effects on health. This is another reason why it attracts people from all around the world.
Northern lights of Iceland - perhaps, this is Iceland’s top tourist destination in summers. The reason why is because Iceland is the perfect destination to watch these northern lights or “aurora borealis”, popularly called in Iceland. It is nature’s most spectacular and surprising event. Iceland has the privilege to be in the most active part of this magic of nature. But these northern lights are visible only on the nights when the skies are all clear.
Gullfoss waterfalls of Iceland - people of Iceland believe that this waterfall is the most beautiful place on earth. They are one hundred percent right. Gullfoss is a double folding waterfall and one of the very few in the world. It thunders around thirty two meters over the fault towards its gorge. Its gorge is 2.5 kilometers long and as deep as seventy meters at some places.
Reykjavik: the capital - how can one forget Reykjavik, when on a tour to Iceland? It is one of the world’s most clean and peaceful cities. It has got a blend of contemporary and modern architecture. All colored in low and some bright paint, this city appears very friendly for tourists. It has got some old-fashioned buildings of eighteenth and nineteenth century. This presents the ancient side of this city.
Iceland is full of natural surprises and everyone should go their at least once in their lifetime to experience what you have never experienced and will never experience again in any other destination of the world.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Seven interesting attractions of Iceland for a quick trip
Iceland is not too far from the eastern coast of North America and even more closer to Western Europe. Hence, its position between North America and Europe makes it a perfect weekend destination. In all, it can be said without any doubt that Iceland is a cool and an inexpensive place for an interesting holiday time. Following are some important and top tourist attractions in Iceland.
Lake Myvatn Conservation Area - this area was declared a special conservation area in 1974. Now it has become a major tourist attraction of Iceland because of some rare natural sights available in this area. This area is Iceland’s most active area in terms of geology. Bubbly mud flats, volcanic craters, newly formed lava fields, crowded bird life, blue lake, everything is present here. One of Europe’s fiercest and tallest waterfalls “the waterfall of god” is also in this park. This waterfall falls from the elevation of 163 meters.
The west Mann islands - this area of Iceland is also known as the “paradise at the end of the world”. This place is worth watching because the youngest island of this world, “surtsey” is located here. This island appeared as in 1963, a volcano busted from the waves. Special tours are arranged for this particular part of Iceland.
Snaefellsnes peninsula/ Snaefellsjokull glacier - this glacier is around 60 kilometers far from the capital city. The notable thing is that still it is visible from Reykjavik. The peninsula of snaefellsnes is an eye-catching and supernatural landscape full of lava caves, waterfalls and hot springs. It is also a source of some very beautiful towns and farms. One can enjoy spectacular and extraordinary coastal views in this part of Iceland.
Thingvellir - this is Iceland’s most important place. This is the place where Iceland’s parliament was formed. One of the spectacular sites here is the cliff which is overlooking the parliament. Lake Thingvallavtn is another place to look for here. It is the world’s biggest supernatural lake and you can enjoy fishing there. Hiking through the wonderful landscapes of thingvellir is one of the major tourist attractions.
Blue lagoon - this destination has the honor to be the most clicked destination of Iceland. It is a man made lagoon and has a temperature of around 40 degree Celsius. It is believed there that its water has a blessing from god and can cure many diseases especially psoriasis. Whether it is summer or the winter, bathing in this lagoon is a breath taking experience.
Geysers - this very famous natural tourist destination is located close to Iceland’s capital Reykjavik. It is overall a three square kilometer area. “Geyser spouting spring” the world’s largest geyser is situated here. Another small spring called ‘strokkur’ is the centre of attraction in this area. This small geyser erupts continuously at the intervals of five to ten minutes. This whole area is full of many small pools.
Skogar folk museum - This is a very famous museum and is another major landmark of Iceland. This museum has a collection of over six thousand articles connected to ancient Icelandic history.
These are seven most famous places one should go while on a tour to Iceland. Of course Iceland is full of amazing sites and sounds with breath taking natural beauty and ideally you should spend a much longer time in Iceland to truly feel the rich experience that this country gives out to its visitors.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Lake Myvatn Conservation Area - this area was declared a special conservation area in 1974. Now it has become a major tourist attraction of Iceland because of some rare natural sights available in this area. This area is Iceland’s most active area in terms of geology. Bubbly mud flats, volcanic craters, newly formed lava fields, crowded bird life, blue lake, everything is present here. One of Europe’s fiercest and tallest waterfalls “the waterfall of god” is also in this park. This waterfall falls from the elevation of 163 meters.
The west Mann islands - this area of Iceland is also known as the “paradise at the end of the world”. This place is worth watching because the youngest island of this world, “surtsey” is located here. This island appeared as in 1963, a volcano busted from the waves. Special tours are arranged for this particular part of Iceland.
Snaefellsnes peninsula/ Snaefellsjokull glacier - this glacier is around 60 kilometers far from the capital city. The notable thing is that still it is visible from Reykjavik. The peninsula of snaefellsnes is an eye-catching and supernatural landscape full of lava caves, waterfalls and hot springs. It is also a source of some very beautiful towns and farms. One can enjoy spectacular and extraordinary coastal views in this part of Iceland.
Thingvellir - this is Iceland’s most important place. This is the place where Iceland’s parliament was formed. One of the spectacular sites here is the cliff which is overlooking the parliament. Lake Thingvallavtn is another place to look for here. It is the world’s biggest supernatural lake and you can enjoy fishing there. Hiking through the wonderful landscapes of thingvellir is one of the major tourist attractions.
Blue lagoon - this destination has the honor to be the most clicked destination of Iceland. It is a man made lagoon and has a temperature of around 40 degree Celsius. It is believed there that its water has a blessing from god and can cure many diseases especially psoriasis. Whether it is summer or the winter, bathing in this lagoon is a breath taking experience.
Geysers - this very famous natural tourist destination is located close to Iceland’s capital Reykjavik. It is overall a three square kilometer area. “Geyser spouting spring” the world’s largest geyser is situated here. Another small spring called ‘strokkur’ is the centre of attraction in this area. This small geyser erupts continuously at the intervals of five to ten minutes. This whole area is full of many small pools.
Skogar folk museum - This is a very famous museum and is another major landmark of Iceland. This museum has a collection of over six thousand articles connected to ancient Icelandic history.
These are seven most famous places one should go while on a tour to Iceland. Of course Iceland is full of amazing sites and sounds with breath taking natural beauty and ideally you should spend a much longer time in Iceland to truly feel the rich experience that this country gives out to its visitors.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Iceland – a nation with rich history, beautiful people and breathtaking beauty
Iceland though has a chilly name, is still known for the warmth that it exudes-be it its people or even its climate. It is a common perception that the Vikings were the first to settle in Iceland. But a few available documents after scrutiny have brought to light some newer facts. These documents speak of the people from British Isles being the first settlers in Iceland. Also the others suggest that the Icelanders are originally of Celtic origin. But the data on which these findings are based is very inconclusive and has many glitches. Hence this topic and the findings remain largely debatable.
Iceland has been ruled over by countries like Norway and Denmark. It is said that a Norwegian called Floki Vigerdason, who had settled here, named Iceland. Even the Icelandic law has drawn quite some inspiration from the Norwegian system.
Iceland is a very thinly populated country. But it is thanks to this that Iceland has been able to save the abounding natural beauty that it possesses. However it is a little costly, but still it is worth seeing and not giving a miss. It is exceptionally beautiful with all the geysers, waterfalls, volcanoes and hot water springs that dot its land all over. The best time to visit this country is the summer time. Wintertime is not very convenient especially for those who like to spend their time luxuriously and sightseeing. Nevertheless if you are one of those adventurous types, you will surely have plenty to do and see in Iceland. During winters say after august, Iceland is richly adorned with incredible scenic beauty. And for those who care to visit this place at around this time, they will surely not be short of any fond memories to take back home!
Iceland is a highly literate country with the literacy rate here being 99.9%. People here are passionate about poetry. Iceland has also produced a noble prizewinner in literature namely Halldor Kiljan Laxness. The most well known literary piece given to the world by Iceland are the ‘Sagas’. They have been written in the years 1180 AD to 1300 AD. These ‘Sagas’ have a detailed account of the history of Iceland, especially the heroes of Iceland who have been dealt with in them. These heroes have been glorified and all their fine qualities such as bravery, honesty, courage, etc have been extensively described in them.
Iceland has produced famous painters like Asgrimur Jonsson, Jon Stefansson, and Johannes Kjarval, the very popular sculptor Asmundur Sveinsson, the well-known opera singer Kristjan Johannsson and pop singer Bjork who sings for the rock band Sigur Ros.
Iceland is a self –declared nuclear free country. It is a part of the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization). But it has no military of its own and hence USA has taken the responsibility to take care of Iceland’s defense. Though as of today the US army’s presence in Iceland is zilch, it still remains committed to its responsibilities to help Iceland, in case the need arises.
It is also rich in wildlife. Fisheries was until recently one of Iceland’s most important businesses and it still does a lot to promote fisheries and also to protect the interests of its fishermen. But now the Icelandic industry has shifted to other sectors and is developing rapidly in that direction too. Iceland is known as one of the most developed countries in the world.
Iceland is always ready to embrace anyone who visits it and the people who do visit, will never want to leave such a loving and beautiful country!
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Iceland has been ruled over by countries like Norway and Denmark. It is said that a Norwegian called Floki Vigerdason, who had settled here, named Iceland. Even the Icelandic law has drawn quite some inspiration from the Norwegian system.
Iceland is a very thinly populated country. But it is thanks to this that Iceland has been able to save the abounding natural beauty that it possesses. However it is a little costly, but still it is worth seeing and not giving a miss. It is exceptionally beautiful with all the geysers, waterfalls, volcanoes and hot water springs that dot its land all over. The best time to visit this country is the summer time. Wintertime is not very convenient especially for those who like to spend their time luxuriously and sightseeing. Nevertheless if you are one of those adventurous types, you will surely have plenty to do and see in Iceland. During winters say after august, Iceland is richly adorned with incredible scenic beauty. And for those who care to visit this place at around this time, they will surely not be short of any fond memories to take back home!
Iceland is a highly literate country with the literacy rate here being 99.9%. People here are passionate about poetry. Iceland has also produced a noble prizewinner in literature namely Halldor Kiljan Laxness. The most well known literary piece given to the world by Iceland are the ‘Sagas’. They have been written in the years 1180 AD to 1300 AD. These ‘Sagas’ have a detailed account of the history of Iceland, especially the heroes of Iceland who have been dealt with in them. These heroes have been glorified and all their fine qualities such as bravery, honesty, courage, etc have been extensively described in them.
Iceland has produced famous painters like Asgrimur Jonsson, Jon Stefansson, and Johannes Kjarval, the very popular sculptor Asmundur Sveinsson, the well-known opera singer Kristjan Johannsson and pop singer Bjork who sings for the rock band Sigur Ros.
Iceland is a self –declared nuclear free country. It is a part of the NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization). But it has no military of its own and hence USA has taken the responsibility to take care of Iceland’s defense. Though as of today the US army’s presence in Iceland is zilch, it still remains committed to its responsibilities to help Iceland, in case the need arises.
It is also rich in wildlife. Fisheries was until recently one of Iceland’s most important businesses and it still does a lot to promote fisheries and also to protect the interests of its fishermen. But now the Icelandic industry has shifted to other sectors and is developing rapidly in that direction too. Iceland is known as one of the most developed countries in the world.
Iceland is always ready to embrace anyone who visits it and the people who do visit, will never want to leave such a loving and beautiful country!
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Exploring the west of Iceland
Set on the edge of Arctic Circle and lying in the one of the world’s most active hotspots of volcanoes, Iceland is growing in its popularity day by day in terms of tourism because of mixture of glaciers, hot springs and rugged fjords. Tourism in Iceland is also getting flourished by activities like hiking in midnight sun and taking bath in splendid blue lagoons. Let us see what WEST ICELAND has got in its store.
Travelers towards west Iceland will not feel the scarcity of sights, relaxations, entertainment and outdoor activities. Outdoor activities includes events like swimming, golf, hiking, touring on horseback, watching nature and some unseen species of birds are some from the endless list. It is said about west Iceland that beauty is everywhere and peace of nature is a complimentary gift with that peace. Every village and town of west Iceland has its own special mention in travel brochures in Iceland.
An area called Hvalfjorour is very famous here in west Iceland because it contains some scenes from the dreadful saga of the Helga haraldsdottir. Every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors which includes glymur waterfall is available. Mountains are present to challenge the hikers. The Second World War has left some ruins of British and American naval stations in this part of Iceland. The shoreline here has quite a big quantity of birdlife. Some reefs here provide resting and mating place for seals. There is no doubt the nature fanatics will enjoy roaming here in hvalfjorour.
The Akrafjall Mountain situated in akranes, not only provides attractive scenery but also the shelter for the tourists. It’s very easily accessible and the view from the top is simply unforgettable. This area has everything to give, whether tourist wants to enjoy indoor or outdoor. The museum at garoar is a must visit place here. It contains some ancient samples of fishing boat of the akranes. The cluster of five museums makes it a very important place for those who want to learn about history, culture and nature of Iceland.
Borgarfjorour region is Iceland’s most prosperous region and is situated here in west Iceland. The village called borgarnes has some very good attractions for tourists. Some very good swimming and outdoor activity options are present here. The valley in which this region lies is the main center of culture, horses and geothermal energy. Deildartunguhver is a hot spring with the most powerful flow in Europe and it is situated here in west Iceland.
One can appreciate the beauty and magical power of nature in snaefallsnes. No visitor can ever forget the ravishing colors and the geological formations in the national ark of snaefellsnes. Amarstapi offers huge attractions for tourists sea cliffs, bird life and the very special, glacier capped volcano and it is considered as the earth’s most powerful place in terms of spiritual energy. The beaches of longufjorur are considered the best place for horse-riding in whole Iceland.
These are west Iceland’s some of the most famous tourist attraction and the list are endless with some powerful destinations waiting to be explored and mentioned. No doubt there are many like these.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Travelers towards west Iceland will not feel the scarcity of sights, relaxations, entertainment and outdoor activities. Outdoor activities includes events like swimming, golf, hiking, touring on horseback, watching nature and some unseen species of birds are some from the endless list. It is said about west Iceland that beauty is everywhere and peace of nature is a complimentary gift with that peace. Every village and town of west Iceland has its own special mention in travel brochures in Iceland.
An area called Hvalfjorour is very famous here in west Iceland because it contains some scenes from the dreadful saga of the Helga haraldsdottir. Every opportunity to enjoy the outdoors which includes glymur waterfall is available. Mountains are present to challenge the hikers. The Second World War has left some ruins of British and American naval stations in this part of Iceland. The shoreline here has quite a big quantity of birdlife. Some reefs here provide resting and mating place for seals. There is no doubt the nature fanatics will enjoy roaming here in hvalfjorour.
The Akrafjall Mountain situated in akranes, not only provides attractive scenery but also the shelter for the tourists. It’s very easily accessible and the view from the top is simply unforgettable. This area has everything to give, whether tourist wants to enjoy indoor or outdoor. The museum at garoar is a must visit place here. It contains some ancient samples of fishing boat of the akranes. The cluster of five museums makes it a very important place for those who want to learn about history, culture and nature of Iceland.
Borgarfjorour region is Iceland’s most prosperous region and is situated here in west Iceland. The village called borgarnes has some very good attractions for tourists. Some very good swimming and outdoor activity options are present here. The valley in which this region lies is the main center of culture, horses and geothermal energy. Deildartunguhver is a hot spring with the most powerful flow in Europe and it is situated here in west Iceland.
One can appreciate the beauty and magical power of nature in snaefallsnes. No visitor can ever forget the ravishing colors and the geological formations in the national ark of snaefellsnes. Amarstapi offers huge attractions for tourists sea cliffs, bird life and the very special, glacier capped volcano and it is considered as the earth’s most powerful place in terms of spiritual energy. The beaches of longufjorur are considered the best place for horse-riding in whole Iceland.
These are west Iceland’s some of the most famous tourist attraction and the list are endless with some powerful destinations waiting to be explored and mentioned. No doubt there are many like these.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Exploring the east of Iceland
Iceland today has the reputation to be the land with the greatest variety in whole Europe. One can find landscapes from surreal to sublimes. The colors of Iceland include rust red craters, blue lakes, green mosses and the sea of black sand. Iceland is worth seeing in every direction. There is a new thing with every step a tourist takes in any direction of Iceland. Let’s check out Iceland in its eastern part i.e. EAST ICELAND
In this part of Iceland one can find those things which make Iceland a special place for every visitor. Infact, something more than that, which includes amazing natural beauty from glaciers to a sea, barren sand fields, valleys of woodlands and some very unique vegetation. One can also see big and famous towns, geothermal pools etc. This huge variety is visible in society and culture of this part of Iceland. One can enjoy fishing for salmon fishes, swimming, spotting birds, hiking in mountains, and not to forget, good food here in eastern Iceland. One very special thing about east Iceland is that one can see Icelandic reindeers in some wild areas here. The special thing is that they live only in this part of Iceland.
This part of Iceland is considered a paradise for hiking freaks. People there are proud of this facility given by nature. The possibilities include hiking in some uninhabited areas as well as short route hiking towards vegetated valley, over open sands and along the sea shore. There is everything here that will suit everyone who is going for a one day hiking tour or a ten day hiking tour. East Iceland is also famous as deep fjords are present here. These fjords extend between high mountain sides with sloping tertiary basalt strata. Woodlands of east Iceland is another special attraction of east Iceland. Skaftafell national park has some of Iceland’s most beautiful and highest growing birch, which is served by nature for ages now. Forest in Hallormsstaour is Iceland’s leading woodland. Green groves of trees are becoming enormously famous now and it is believed that every traveler will definitely stop to enjoy the natural vegetation and wind shelter. Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier is present here in east Iceland. This glacier has shaped the environment and the history of eastern Iceland for hundreds of years now. Most of the rivers in Iceland run from this glacier. Europe’s biggest national park, Skaftafell Park, was made here in 2004 and the southern part of this glacier was included in this park. In the northern part of this glacier one can witness the combination of two most powerful forces of the nature. The fire and the glacial ice, as the most active volcano of Iceland are present here. But tourists must take precautions before going to this glacier and should have some general information from professional trip advisors. Mount bulandstindur is a pyramid shaped basaltic mountain which rises up to amazing 6,130 foots. In east Iceland, it is considered a legendary force of mystical powers and energy. Some small towns and villages like djupivogur, breiddalsvik, egilsstadir town and bakkagardi are also some of the most watched places in eastern Iceland. East Iceland heritage museum is located in Egilsstadir town. It displays some very fascinating artifacts found in this part of Iceland. The most famous is a 1000 years old Viking’s gravesite and his silver remnants.
There is no doubt that east Iceland has got everything a tourist expects, when he visits some country like Iceland. But this is all explored and believe me there is so much which has not been explored and left for tourists to explore for themselves and feel the proud of exploring something new and amazing from this nature.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
In this part of Iceland one can find those things which make Iceland a special place for every visitor. Infact, something more than that, which includes amazing natural beauty from glaciers to a sea, barren sand fields, valleys of woodlands and some very unique vegetation. One can also see big and famous towns, geothermal pools etc. This huge variety is visible in society and culture of this part of Iceland. One can enjoy fishing for salmon fishes, swimming, spotting birds, hiking in mountains, and not to forget, good food here in eastern Iceland. One very special thing about east Iceland is that one can see Icelandic reindeers in some wild areas here. The special thing is that they live only in this part of Iceland.
This part of Iceland is considered a paradise for hiking freaks. People there are proud of this facility given by nature. The possibilities include hiking in some uninhabited areas as well as short route hiking towards vegetated valley, over open sands and along the sea shore. There is everything here that will suit everyone who is going for a one day hiking tour or a ten day hiking tour. East Iceland is also famous as deep fjords are present here. These fjords extend between high mountain sides with sloping tertiary basalt strata. Woodlands of east Iceland is another special attraction of east Iceland. Skaftafell national park has some of Iceland’s most beautiful and highest growing birch, which is served by nature for ages now. Forest in Hallormsstaour is Iceland’s leading woodland. Green groves of trees are becoming enormously famous now and it is believed that every traveler will definitely stop to enjoy the natural vegetation and wind shelter. Vatnajokull, Europe’s largest glacier is present here in east Iceland. This glacier has shaped the environment and the history of eastern Iceland for hundreds of years now. Most of the rivers in Iceland run from this glacier. Europe’s biggest national park, Skaftafell Park, was made here in 2004 and the southern part of this glacier was included in this park. In the northern part of this glacier one can witness the combination of two most powerful forces of the nature. The fire and the glacial ice, as the most active volcano of Iceland are present here. But tourists must take precautions before going to this glacier and should have some general information from professional trip advisors. Mount bulandstindur is a pyramid shaped basaltic mountain which rises up to amazing 6,130 foots. In east Iceland, it is considered a legendary force of mystical powers and energy. Some small towns and villages like djupivogur, breiddalsvik, egilsstadir town and bakkagardi are also some of the most watched places in eastern Iceland. East Iceland heritage museum is located in Egilsstadir town. It displays some very fascinating artifacts found in this part of Iceland. The most famous is a 1000 years old Viking’s gravesite and his silver remnants.
There is no doubt that east Iceland has got everything a tourist expects, when he visits some country like Iceland. But this is all explored and believe me there is so much which has not been explored and left for tourists to explore for themselves and feel the proud of exploring something new and amazing from this nature.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Magnificent literature of Iceland
Till a few years back, Iceland was also known as “the unknown land”. But for few years now, it has been given a new name i.e. “the land of unknown surprises”. This name is given by all those tourists and visitors who have visited Iceland and witnessed these surprises themselves. Every tourist going there has only one impression in his/her mind. To see and to feel which has never been seen and never been felt before. This is Iceland-the land of surprises. Almost every visitor to Iceland wants to enjoy its untouched and unspoiled nature and also its historic background and literature. People come here to enjoy and to come closer to nature and every kind of adventures.
Let’s talk about the literature of this very splendid north European country “Iceland”. The main Icelandic literature was formed by the inhabitants of Iceland at the time of country’s settlement way back in ninth century. Because Old Norse and Icelandic are the same language that’s why, sometimes, Iceland’s medieval writings are also called Old Norse literature.
The main attraction of Iceland’s literature is the saga of medieval periods. These sagas were written between twelfth and fourteenth centuries. Sagas are basically stories about Norwegian kings and real legendry heroes. These heroes include both man and woman from the land of Iceland as well as Scandinavia. These sagas were initially composed into a prose by unknown authors. It is believed that they have been hugely recited by people and storytellers before getting written into books. Although, no original manuscript is available or exists, but there are some transcripts and collections. These are the revision and extension of the originals.
Hundreds of sagas were written during medieval period in Iceland. These sagas are basically divided into four main parts. [1] “The Sagas of kings” which includes snorri sturluson’s ‘heimskringla’. This saga outlines the stories of rulers of Norway from ancient time till 1777 AD. [2] “The sagas of knytlinga” which consists the stories of Danish kings from gorm the old to canute. [3] “The legendary sagas or the lying saga” which includes the real stories and some fantasies of romance and love stories of knights. [4] “The sagas of Icelanders”, this category consists the whole account of the so called saga age [900 to 1050 A.D]. This category includes some evergreen sagas like Egil’s saga-the life of warrior poet; laxdaela saga-a triangular love story; gisla saga-the tragic tale of a hero. These sagas are considered the best in Icelandic literature history because they are full of complexities of human and social conflicts.
The same way i.e. the writing form of sagas was used in thirteenth century to write the contemporary history as it was also evolving around the important personalities of that time. This is popularly called “the saga of sturlunga”. This saga narrates the gruesome details of the thirteenth century which led to the conclusion of Old Icelandic commonwealth. Some other historical writings of medieval Iceland includes “the islendingabok” [the book of the Icelanders] by Ari Thorgilsson and “the lananamabok” [the book of settlements] which is also probably written by Ari Thorgilsson. Icelandic literature also includes “eddas” and the “skaldic poetry”.
After the initialization of fourteenth century, the literature of Iceland declined. It is believed that from 14th century to 19th century, nothing has been written but still the Icelandic literature has got everything, a typical literature history requires in making it notable in this world.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Let’s talk about the literature of this very splendid north European country “Iceland”. The main Icelandic literature was formed by the inhabitants of Iceland at the time of country’s settlement way back in ninth century. Because Old Norse and Icelandic are the same language that’s why, sometimes, Iceland’s medieval writings are also called Old Norse literature.
The main attraction of Iceland’s literature is the saga of medieval periods. These sagas were written between twelfth and fourteenth centuries. Sagas are basically stories about Norwegian kings and real legendry heroes. These heroes include both man and woman from the land of Iceland as well as Scandinavia. These sagas were initially composed into a prose by unknown authors. It is believed that they have been hugely recited by people and storytellers before getting written into books. Although, no original manuscript is available or exists, but there are some transcripts and collections. These are the revision and extension of the originals.
Hundreds of sagas were written during medieval period in Iceland. These sagas are basically divided into four main parts. [1] “The Sagas of kings” which includes snorri sturluson’s ‘heimskringla’. This saga outlines the stories of rulers of Norway from ancient time till 1777 AD. [2] “The sagas of knytlinga” which consists the stories of Danish kings from gorm the old to canute. [3] “The legendary sagas or the lying saga” which includes the real stories and some fantasies of romance and love stories of knights. [4] “The sagas of Icelanders”, this category consists the whole account of the so called saga age [900 to 1050 A.D]. This category includes some evergreen sagas like Egil’s saga-the life of warrior poet; laxdaela saga-a triangular love story; gisla saga-the tragic tale of a hero. These sagas are considered the best in Icelandic literature history because they are full of complexities of human and social conflicts.
The same way i.e. the writing form of sagas was used in thirteenth century to write the contemporary history as it was also evolving around the important personalities of that time. This is popularly called “the saga of sturlunga”. This saga narrates the gruesome details of the thirteenth century which led to the conclusion of Old Icelandic commonwealth. Some other historical writings of medieval Iceland includes “the islendingabok” [the book of the Icelanders] by Ari Thorgilsson and “the lananamabok” [the book of settlements] which is also probably written by Ari Thorgilsson. Icelandic literature also includes “eddas” and the “skaldic poetry”.
After the initialization of fourteenth century, the literature of Iceland declined. It is believed that from 14th century to 19th century, nothing has been written but still the Icelandic literature has got everything, a typical literature history requires in making it notable in this world.
Author Bio:
Asberg Jonsson is the manager of Iceland Visitor, a company specializing in packages for Vacation in Iceland and day tours in Iceland. For more information visit www.icelandvisitor.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)