Iceland is a tiny island nation in the Atlantic Ocean and is just 500 km from the coast of Greenland. It was originally settled by the Vikings more than 1,000 years ago. Historic attractions coupled with fantastic scenery, hot springs, varied activities and the multiple delights of Reykjavik, the capital city, entice tourists to take Icelandic holidays. Reykjavik’s Keflavik Airport is 10,000 km from Bangkok, around 20 hours flying time via Helsinki or Copenhagen.
Don’t MissReykjavik’s tourist attractions span its historical eras. The first must see is the Viking Settlement Exhibition which features Viking remains and a kiddies’ interactive zone. The three Reykjavik Art Museum branches house exhibits created by the likes of pop artist Erro plus the sculptures of Asmundur Sveinsson. Hallgrimskirkja is a modern church towering 74.5 m above the skyline of Reykjavik.
Restaurants and BarsIcelandic dishes worth sampling include hangikjöt (smoked lamb), kjötsúpa (lamb soup), whale meat dishes and harofiskur (a dried fish snack). Reykjavik is noted for its plentiful restaurants and even has a significant number of Thai ones. Hverfisgata is a street close to Reykjavik Harbour and has the best selection of eateries in town. A little south in the centre is where a number of the city’s exciting pubs and nightclubs are located.
ActivitiesFor most activities, Iceland is best during the summer months between June and August. The chance of seeing the midnight sun and attending the popular Secret Solstice Music Festival makes summer a logical choice too. A Golden Circle tour, which comprises Thingvellir National Park, Gullfoss Waterfall and the Haukadalur hot springs, is an easy drive from Reykjavik. A road trip around the coast of Iceland is another favourite and could be combined with camping and hiking in the amazing Vatnajokull National Park. Whale and puffin watching tours are more comfortable in summer, while in winter the Northern Lights are visible in many locations.
ShoppingThe central Reykjavik zone between the streets of Laugavegur and Skolavordustigur is the top place for shopping in Iceland. Typical Icelandic souvenirs include lopapeysa (wool sweaters and wool scarves), paintings of Vikings, puffin cuddly toys, Omnom chocolate bars, and bottles of Reyka vodka.