Iceland

An island located in the North Atlantic Ocean, Iceland is one of the most beautiful, yet often misunderstood, countries in the world. Despite its name, the country’s climate can be described as temperate, with its lush green rolling hills in the summertime offering a sharp contrast to its chilly winters. Visitors will be met with rich culture, intriguing history, breathtaking landscapes and friendly people.

Language: Icelandic
Currency: Króna
Government: Representative parliamentary democracy

Interesting facts

• Northern Iceland is one of the most popular places in the world to experience Midnight Sun, a phenomenon where the sun shines for a full 24 hour day.
• Iceland is roughly the same size as the State of Ohio.
• 11% of the country is covered by glaciers.
• Icelanders have a life expectancy of 81.8 years, the third highest in the world.
• The country is known worldwide for its many geothermal outdoor spas.
• The world’s first openly gay leader was Johanna Sigurdardottir, who became Iceland’s Prime Minister on February 1, 2009.

Climate

The climate of Iceland is relatively mild when compared to other countries at the same latitude. This is due to being warmed by the Gulf Stream, a powerful Atlantic Ocean current.

• Spring: March, April, May
• Summer: June, July, August
• Fall: September, October, November
• Winter: December, January, February

History

The first settlers of Iceland were all exiles from their neighbour to the North, Norway, seeking refuge from the Norse King Harald Haarfagri. Upon arriving on the island, the new inhabitants set up a parliamentary system in 930 AD called Althing, which remains today as the oldest institution still in existence. Iceland enjoyed a ‘Golden age’ until the late 12th/ early 13th century, when the country entered into a period of civil warfare. Iceland, along with Norway, eventually became part of the Crown of Denmark until the early 19th century when it regained its independence. Iceland then became a member of the UN in 1946.