Why Iceland Could Be a Top Destination For Tourists Wanting to Spend Less in 2010
By Sarah Maple

As 2010 is now less than a couple of months away, holiday specialists and the media are acting fast to estimate where the top holiday destinations of the new year might be. In 2009 Turkey was the surprise hit for UK tourists, but with the global economic crisis still being felt in other parts of the world, it is likely that cheap holidays may be found in a place less known for its sun and sand – and more for its fjords and dramatic icy scenery.

The reason Iceland is being tipped by Lonely Planet (amongst others) as a prime holiday destination for 2010 is simply because in comparison to just a couple of years ago, the country is now much more affordable for the average tourist – due to the recent collapse of the Króna. These financial problems have pushed the Icelandic tourism board to cut prices and to market itself widely in order to attract more visitors – and for those eager to book early deals are likely to be very satisfactory indeed.

For a country so significantly hit by financial crisis it is something of a silver lining that most of Iceland’s appeal is in no way dependent on commercialism and development – but instead on nature and geology. A geologically young and unpredictable land, Iceland boasts a number of volcanoes (such as Hekla in the south – the country’s most active volcano) and geysers and hot springs which are formidable tourist attractions all year round. The two most famous of these are Geysir in the Haukadalur Golden Circle valley (from which the term: ‘Geyser’ is derived) and Strokkur near Rekjavik – which is famed for its regular eruptions.

Strokkur

Consequently there is much to discover in Iceland on foot, and the country is popular with walkers and hikers. The Interior Central Highlands offer rugged trails from Landmannalaugar all the way to Skogar near the south coast. Much of the highlands are only accessible during the summer months between mid-June and mid-September.

However, there is even more to Iceland than fantastic landscape and inspiring geography. The island has a rich and individual culture to be explored in its towns and cities – ranging from the landscape inspired architecture of the Hallgrimskikja Church, to the best hot dog in Europe (as voted by The Guardian) at Baejarins Bezu Pylsur. Culture House in Rekjavik offers changing exhibitions on various aspects of Iceland’s history.

Sarah Maple is writing for Gohop.ie who offer cheap holidays and package holidays.

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