Bucket List: Iceland

Straddling the Mid-Atlantic Ridge just below the Arctic Circle, the island of Iceland is Europe's second-largest island after Great Britain.  Due to its location, its climate is mainly tundra, punctuated by a series of active volcanoes and majestic fjords.

It's thought that the first settlers came from the various Scandinavian countries, and the people lived in a commonwealth-style society until internal political struggles necessitated the island being brought under the Norwegian Crown, and then later, Denmark took over.  Iceland gained its independence in 1918 and became a kingdom, but after World War Two a vote was held to establish a republic and create a constitution.

Historically, Iceland's economy was driven by the fishery, but in more recent times its abundant hydroelectric and geothermal energy sources have enabled the republic to become one of the top 10 greenest economies in the world.  The tourism sector is expanding, particularly in ecotourism, whale watching, and mountaineering.  Despite its remoteness and harsh climate conditions, much of the scenery is considered to be among the most breathtaking in the world.

Official web site www.iceland.is

Tourism information www.inspiredbyiceland.com