There are few places on Earth as uniquely compelling as the “Land of Fire and Ice.” Discover why Iceland is a favorite destination for a growing number of HomeExchange members.
There must be something magical in the cool glacial water of this volcanic island. Far from tropical reefs and coconuts, Iceland is a different sort of island life. That’s part of the appeal. Rich in both nature and culture, Iceland has become a premier vacation spot. With spectacular fjords and rushing waterfalls to match an eclectic collection of festivals and museums, this is one trip you won’t want to leave. Especially once you get to know the locals as only HomeExchangers can.
It’s the perfect country for getting in touch with nature… and finally seeing many of the things you learned about in geography classes! Ana and Paulo from Portugal.
While quite small (it is only about 39,000 square miles), Iceland sports a robust variety of outdoor activities easily enjoyed from over 800 HomeExchange listings. You could drive the Golden Circle route in about 3 hours, but we recommend you make extra time to appreciate the journey. Love to hike? Hit the hills of Þingvellir (pronounced Thingvellir) National Park to explore the gushing Geysier Hot Springs and stroll through history at the site of the world’s first parliament. Do you prefer swimming? Dive into some of the world’s clearest water in the Silfra Rift, a fissure between the North American and European tectonic plates. (How’s that for a “bucket list” item?)
Thanks to HomeExchange, Iceland is easily accessible for the whole family. The country features more HomeExchange listings per capita than anywhere in the world, and 98% are child-friendly with 45% having baby items available. Another 15% even allow you to bring along your pet.
My entire family – including my husband, daughter, two grandsons, and my 84 year old mother – went to Iceland on a home exchange. Brigitte from Denmark
Can you imagine the look on your grandma’s and children’s faces as they view the capital from the top of the monumental Hallgrímskirkja (or Church of Hallgrímur)? And everyone will delight in relaxing in one (or more!) of over 170 public swimming pools heated by geothermic activity, including the spectacular Blue Lagoon.
####### Photo Credit: Hallgrímskirkja
With the capital city of Reykjavík as the country’s main hub (53% of HomeExchange listings are there), local Icelanders are also active home exchangers, swapping against other locations in country to be close to family or to take in some of the 200 or so museums, markets and gardens. They may in fact be keeping a lookout for elves, or huldufólk, and their homes. Locals honor the little residents by ensuring public projects don’t damage any rocks where they might live. (Yes, majority of native Icelanders believe in their existence.)
Iceland is amazing and definitely worth to visit, either in winter or summer. Ricardo from Spain
Iceland boasts so many year-round activities that it can be hard to choose the best time to visit. You might want to take part in the Midnight Sun Run or the Arctic Open in June. Or experience the marvel that is Swamp soccer in August. (Hint: it’s very messy and shoes are duct taped to feet.) Of course, who could forget the Northern Lights. This spectacle is visible from almost anywhere in the country, but best spotted away from the city and between September and April. You won’t want to miss this feast for the senses.
With a population of around 330,000, Iceland is such a tight-knit community that their phone directories are alphabetized by first name. This sense of camaraderie makes visiting all the more fun. Icelandic exchange partners often offer their cars as part of the exchange, making your trip more affordable and the beautiful country more accessible. Heck, you might even receive a gift like fresh caught cod.
We met wonderful people living in Iceland: friendly, helpful, respectful of diversity, and caring of the wonderful nature they have. Caterina from Italy
While spoken Icelandic resembles ancient Norse – the language of the Vikings – most residents speak English, as well as some Danish. This means if you ever get lost or can’t quite decipher a road sign, don’t hesitate to ask a local. (They might even be able to tell you how to pronounce “Eyjafjallajökull.”) Though, since most roads are on a large loop, you’re likely to find your way home… eventually.
Iceland is a society that honors its heritage while looking to the future. Internet connectivity is excellent (over 97% of homes are online) and most of its energy is created by renewable resources. In recent years, it has also become a hotspot of creative development, with the cultural and creative industries employing more than the fishing and agricultural industries combined. All that AND they were the first country to elect female and openly gay prime ministers.
We only stayed for a week so we need to plan a longer vacation in the near future. Christiane from Spain
No matter how long you stay, start planning your second visit! While Iceland is a quick flight from Europe and New York, there are some remarkable “layover” deals that allow you to pause there between other destinations. Given Iceland’s small size, you’ll easily find some quick adventures such as hiking into a magma chamber, strolling through the inside of a glacier, riding an Icelandic horse (small but mighty) or marveling at a colony of puffin.
Plan Your Iceland Home Exchange Now!
Make the Land of Fire and Ice a “preferred destination” by logging in to your HomeExchange.com profile and adding Iceland to your list. Fall in love with this majestic country and prepare to gush about your journey to all your friends back at home. But don’t forget, you have new friends in Iceland who will look forward to seeing you again soon.
