It may have a really troubled economy nowadays, but Iceland continues to draw curiosity.  Beyond the “ice” and Björk, Iceland has a lot to offer for travelers from around the world.The land is literally not made of iceDespite the name, only 10% of Iceland is covered with glaciers.  First-time visitors would be surprised how mild its climate is, not to mention its many geothermal springs where tourists come and bathe.Take a dip in the Blue LagoonAmong the country’s “hot spots,” the Blue Lagoon (l…

Since its foundation in 1070 AD, Bergen has evolved into one of Norway’s most important cities.  This country’s second largest capital even became the administrative capital during the early 1200, so it is not surprising why Bergen has been a commercial and tourist hotspot for many European travelers.Bergen has a number of attractions, but even the locals would tell you that in order to get into the “real feel of Bergen,” one has to go beyond the typical sights and simply stroll along downtown. …

If you are one of those rare travelers who are willing to go to the edges of the earth just to discover places that few tourists have dared to trek, consider traveling north…way north.  At the northernmost tip of Europe is a collection of islands (technically) governed by Norway where one can experience life in the Arctic. Svalbard is one of the most spectacular places imaginable, having a bit of access from the North Pole as well as vast icebergs and floes that choke the seas.  Despite the ba…

Who would have thought that a settlement of coal miners in the Arctic can be a base of tourism?  Longyearbyen, the “only” town in the archipelago of Svalbard, still bears its coal-mining roots.  Although large-scale coal mines have long been gone, the roadsides and mountainsides are still littered with mines and their equipment.  However, tourism is slowly becoming the town’s main source of income.  The town is considered as the largest settlement and the administrative center of Svalbard, locat…

Although the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard is administered by the Norwegian government, an international treaty declared that any other country has absolute equality in exploiting the area’s mineral resources.  Russia has taken this opportunity and has established a settlement in the 1930s. Nowadays, Barentsburg is the second largest town in Svalbard with about 400 inhabitants who are almost entirely Russian and Ukrainians, most are working for the Russian-owned Arktikugol.  Russia is currently…

The economy may not be in good shape in Iceland, but that does not mean you have to ignore the beauty and charm that its capital city can bring to weary travelers. Reykjavik, the world’s northernmost capital is a destination for tourists who seek for a combination of tradition and eccentricity. The city may populated by the most darkly cynical people in the world, but they are brimming with creativity and enthusiasm for life. The summers are occupied with 22-hour daylights and the winters are sc…

Scandinavian beaches are among the best in the world. The best part is that they become the best during summertime. Just as what anyone has to expect of beaches. Yet, of course, this is Scandinavia. If you are planning for a trip to the beach in this part of the world, you better go there on the late months of July and August. So if you want to see the different beaches within the different Scandinavian countries, then you better check out the list below. Beaches in DenmarkThe beaches in Denmark…

Scandinavia is a region located in the Scandinavian Peninsula, north of the Atlantic. It is comprised of the countries of Norway, Finland, Iceland, Sweden and Denmark. All of these were once historical kingdoms bound together by history. The country of DenmarkCopenhagen is the capital of this country. Its people are called Danes and their official language is Danish. It is located at the southern tip of the Scandinavian region. It consists of almost 400 islands and the Jutland peninsula as well….

Iceland is gifted with many natural wonders. With so many sights to see, you’ll need tour guides.  Guided tours are advantageous because you’re sure that what you do or visit is safe and secure. Also, tour guides can provide you with relevant information about the destination, its people, and the culture. They can also give you an interactive experience you won’t ever forget. It’s worth your money, time, and the visit. Here are the 5 top guided tours in Iceland:The “Golden Circle Classic” tourIf…