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Tuesday, 9 October 2012

The Ends of the Earth

Iceland day 1 & 2:

We left the airport in our rental car at about 8 a.m. On Monday morning. I was instantly aware of the lunar-like landscape and frigid air. Perfection. It was a 4+ hour drive to Skaftafell National Park, with many spectacular views along the way (see waterfall and beach picture). The national park itself is enormous and it would take a great amount of time to explore its interior.
I was continually amazed at the glacier/volcano ranges that make you feel like you're the last person alive on earth.

Why Iceland? Let the photos answer that question, but if they aren't enough, where else on earth can you access pristine backcountry in the arctic circle and have the guaranteed "right to roam?" (The Icelandic government days you can camp anywhere you want) AND have temperatures above freezing?


Language:
For a language that's only spoken by 300,000 people in the world, Icelandic is quite prevalent. I'm surprised to learn that the language has not changed much since its Viking commencement. Although 90% of the natives speak English, 98% of the signs are in Icelandic.... France, take a hint!


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