Why Iceland? Because it’s close, it’s easy, it’s exotic! Iceland is closer than you think – and more fun than you’ve ever dreamt of. The chilliest thing about Iceland is its name! In January, the average temperature in Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, is higher than that in New York. And Iceland’s welcome for tourists is always warm. Almost everyone speaks fluent English and Icelanders aren’t really given to formalities. After all, even the telephone directory lists people by their first name. Reykjavik is a city where you’ll feel safe to walk the streets. Cozy, charming, a “village feel” and friendly people. But as much entertainment, action and things to do as a metropolis of millions. And with all the modern conveniences, a high quality of life and world-class services. Even so, it’s still only a 15-minute cab ride between downtown and wild nature, where you’ll feel you’re the only person on Earth. Iceland is the ideal place for taking a break and setting foot on a European outpost with an exciting, lively, and ancient – but living culture all of its own. You’ll feel at home – free to walk around, shop, admire, explore. It’s a place you could go on discovering forever. Never Out of Season… Winter heats up in Iceland! Despite what its chilly-sounding name might suggest, Iceland does not freeze to a halt in winter. Average January temperatures in many parts of Iceland are actually higher than those in New York and, in a sense, much of Iceland’s cultural life bursts into bloom from autumn to spring, before the long bright nights and the main travel season begin. Outdoor life goes on as usual in Iceland throughout winter, with horseback riding and sightseeing all year round. And for thrills such as snowmobiling, you don’t even need to go up on a glacier in winter because rental and tour operators will find you plenty of places to zoom around at liberty. Some sports even take on an added flair in winter – like swimming in a geothermally-heated outdoor pool, in a blizzard! For winter incentive tours, Iceland is a particular favorite because of its action – both in nature and in town. On the cultural front you’ll have the choice of symphony orchestra, opera, theaters (there’s no language barrier for the frequent musicals), and a rich variety of other musical events. Alongside home artists, growing numbers of celebrated international performers from all fields are eager to include “cool but hot” Iceland in their tour programs these days. And for a little daytime cultural input, a fine national and international mix is also found at the many visual art museums. Climate Thanks to the Gulf Stream, Iceland enjoys a cool temperate ocean climate: cool in summer and fairly mild in winter. However, the weather is very changeable and tourists should be prepared for the unexpected.
Average temperature in Reykjavik January 35 F April 42 F July 56 F October 44 F
Textwriter Lisbeth Wahl/Best of Nordic
