The world may be headed for a financial Armageddon, but that is no reason to stop traveling, especially if you are a budget traveler. Pyrodes is all about making lemons out of lemonade, and, let us tell you, Iceland is one lemon of a country right now. Its banks are down the drain, its currency is in collapse, and its government is nearly bankrupt. Heck, you can even buy the whole defunct thing on Ebay. But, Iceland’s woes can be your cause for celebration because now one of the most expensive destinations on earth is on sale. Everything from the flights to the hotels to the beers in the pub are dropping in value, so buy low, readers, and take advantage of one of the most beautiful places on the planet. Let’s explore the nuts and bolts of this thing after the jump…

The decline of Iceland in recent months has been a site to behold. As their banks and financial system went into free fall, we saw one of Europe’s most prosperous nations plummet to where it is now begging Russia and the IMF for cash infusions to simply maintain some form of stability, and their prospects for success in those loans is doubtful. But, not to worry, because you can do your part to help, and more than just buying a Bjork album. Iceland airlines, hotels, and travel agencies (look at Regent Holidays) have cut their prices between 25% and 50%, giving you a once in a lifetime chance to visit. The draw of Iceland can best be split into two categories: the capital of Reykjavik and the countryside outside the capital. Let’s explore them each separately.

Reykjavik: This is a rocking European capital. The music and restaurant scenes are great, and the outdoor activity offerings ain’t that bad either. Laugavegur is the main shopping street and there are a number of clubs and dance options that dot the downtown area. For a more specific list of places to eat, stay, and play, look here or here. Another favorite in the city are the many geothermal pools that offer you the chance to experience an Icelandic pastime and give your health a boost in the process. Horse riding, skiing, hiking, and many more outdoor activities are just a short ride away, and don’t forget to take advantage of the ocean with whale watching and boat tours. But, if you really want to experience Iceland’s beauty, look beyond the city to the countryside.

The Countryside: While there is plane service around Iceland, Pyrodes’ recommends renting a car. A car will give you the flexibility to enjoy some of Iceland’s most hidden treasures, and the island is very drivable. The outer country has countless parks and attractions, so here are some of our favorites:

• Vatnajökull National Park - Iceland’s newest national park was founded on June 7th, 2008 and includes the former Skaftafell and Jokulsargljufur National Parks. Vatnajökull National Park is Europe’s largest national park, covering about 12% of the surface of Iceland. The park is home to Iceland’s highest mountain (Hvannadalshnúkur), largest glacier (Vatnajökull), and Europe’s most powerful waterfall (Dettifoss).

• Snæfellsjökull National Park - Located on the tip of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in southern Iceland, this park is home to the ice covered volcanic crater that was the setting for Jules Verne’s book Journey to the Center of the Earth.

• The Blue Lagoon: A fantastic pool and health centre. The spa is located in Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula, south-western Iceland. It is situated approximately 13 km (8 mi) from the Keflavík International Airport and 39 km (24 mi) from Reykjavík. This geothermal spa in the middle of a lava field with its milky blue water that is unlike anything you’ve seen before.

• Mývatn: A lake region near Akureyri in the North of Iceland, Mývatn has an unearthly appearance owing to special types of volcanic craters throughout the lake.

• Gullfoss: The Golden Falls. On the edge of the inhospitable Interior of Iceland about 60 miles east of Reykjavík, the river Hvítá plunges down a double cascade to create what many people believe is the most beautiful waterfall in Iceland

• Geysir: Geothermal hot spot located 10km west of Gullfoss. Geysir itself (from which the English word “geyser” derives) is no longer active, but fortunately Strokkur next door goes off every five to ten minutes.
• Here are some great photos of the natural beauty. Gallery.

And now, we give you Bjork because, well, why not?

Enjoy and Happy Travels!

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1Comment »

1. Comment by Tim Alabama — June 25, 2009 @ 8:30 am

   Thanks for the info buddy.. I visited Iceland last year.. but now I am excited to visit Malaysia with Accor group’s new Asia Pacific “City Super Sale” offer. It gave me 60% discount through http://pea.to/ampind. Why not check it out??

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