Flying to America from Europe, I spent a few days and nights in Iceland. Only 390,000 people inhabit the country, and a third live in the main city of Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital of a sovereign state. Landing on a cloudy day, it felt like I arrived on a world covered in fog and mist. Then, the sun shined, and my eyes opened to the natural beauty of Iceland.
The geography of Iceland formed when the tectonic plates of North America and Eurasia overlapped and created a volcanic zone (e.g. “Ring of Fire.”) On thermal vents, land masses of towering mountains, lava fields, and hot springs grew over time. You can get to many of these sights on paved roads and short hikes. To see more of the interior regions of Iceland, you need a four-wheel drive vehicle and sturdy overlanding skills.
Gratefully, I enjoyed the geothermal, volcanic nature of the island (i.e., saunas, hot springs, “polar plunge!”) Also, the wooly sheep and wild horses made me smile. Best of all, the people were friendly and kind. I’ve read that the sun stays up until midnight during the summer and the Northern Lights shine in the winter. Maybe, one day I will see them here. I am ready to return.