They say you can’t take a bad photograph in Iceland. Sure, we suppose it might be a bit dark if you leave the lens cap on, but otherwise, between the incredible scenery and a sun that usually sits low in the sky (this extended “magic hour” avoids harsh, washed out images), you can’t go wrong. New to IcelandTouristBoard.com is a stunning slide show of cruising images from Akureyri and the North Country.
The Port of Akureyri is Iceland’s second largest port after Reykjavík. In recent years the port has become a popular cruise destination, bringing thousands of visitors to the area each summer. In fact, this year, Akureyri was voted Europe’s third best destination by customers of Princess Cruises, one of the largest cruise ship companies in the world.
Akureyri, with a university, several museums, fine dining and a lively nightlife, is the capital of the north and gateway to untold outdoor activities. As you can see from the slide show, you’ve got your golf, your puffins, tolting horses, your cruise ships with their midnight buffets (in the summer daylight, of course), even tourists in shorts (thankfully in white, not black socks). Be forewarned: one look at this slide show and you might have an irresistible urge to book a cruise yourself. To see the show, log on here: http://icelandtouristboard.com/photo_gallery_akureyri/
We stopped the presses for this one: The Hotel Holt, located in a quiet but central street in the old town of Reykjavík, is offering one of the best deals we have seen in recent memory. A double room is only $125 per night, and a single with a queen sized bed just $90 from January though March of 2010. The deal even includes the Value Added Tax and breakfast buffet.
In the November edition of Airliner World, the British-based magazine recognized Icelandair as one of the few profitable airlines in today’s turbulent economy. It stated that profits can be made, even in the middle of a recession, if an airline can adapt and have flexibility in rejuvenating their business model.
It seems you can’t turn on the news without being assaulted by fierce winter blizzards, plummeting temperatures, cars spinning out of control. People trapped in their homes. Of course, we’re talking about the U.S. In Iceland, while, yes, it gets cold at times despite our location on the Gulf Stream, Icelanders just shrug it off, knowing that just around the corner is a free public heated swimming pool, great restaurants, a rocking nightlife, and museums, art galleries and concerts just waiting for us.