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Area: 103 000 km², population: 300 000, capital: Reykjavik, 150 000 inhabitants, time: GMT - 1, currency: Icelandic crowns ISK, form of government: republic.

 

Iceland has one big city, Reykjavik. Towns and villages are spread along the coast. People cannot live in the interior of the country. Fishery and agriculture are the most important sources of income. Iceland is particularly famous for its horses and sheep. Most of the southeastern part is covered by Europe's biggest glacier, Vatnajökull, and west of glacier is the volcano Hekla.

The airport Keflavik is appr. 50 kms. west of Reykjavik. Between the airport and the city, out in the rugged lava fields, is the famous Blue Lagoon, with thermal water. A bath here is an exceptional experience for everybody, but especially recommendable for people suffering from skin diseases. Lake Myvatn east of Akureyri is famous for its exceptional beauty. Husavik in the north (5-6 hrs. drive from Reykjavik) is probably the world's best place for whalewatching