Discover Scenic, Hip Iceland
Travelers Want to Experience Viking Country to Share Their Story First
Los Angeles, CA – August 18, 2005 – How many people do you know have been to Iceland? For the seasoned traveler who has already “been there and done that” all over the world, Iceland offers globetrotters an off the radar appeal, according to the experts at ALL-TRAVEL.com, the leading provider of personalized travel services to the greater Los Angeles area.
“Since travel is as much about the bragging rights as it is the experience, everyone wants to be the first in their group to go somewhere no one else has been,” explained Eric Maryanov, president of ALL-TRAVEL.com. “In this fast-paced, ever-shrinking world, this can often be a challenge. So these days, travelers are heading off to Iceland.”
Whether it’s the casual, outdoorsy appeal of soft adventure, the scenic wonders of a country molded by centuries-old volcanoes and glaciers, or a sense of safety far away from terrorist activity, curiosity about the Viking-land has piqued in a big way. This is not an over-the-top luxury vacation, nor a Third World country roughing it experience. Iceland is part of Europe and is today’s latest travel treasure to be discovered, said Maryanov.
Minimally marketed without commercialized chain hotels and American retailers, Iceland sits on the edge of the Arctic Circle. It is the least populated country in Europe, and only recently became noticed as a destination in its own right. Although a long way to travel and with only one airline to get there, Iceland is a fascinating place that is quickly gaining momentum among travelers looking for a unique, new adventure.
With the unexpectedly cosmopolitan capital city of Reykjavik, where most Icelanders live, and its similar yet smaller sister city of Akureyri, Iceland offers visitors stylish shops and restaurants, and a hip nightlife and bar scene. Reykjavik also boasts cinemas, museums and galleries, an opera, symphony orchestra and dance company.
Then there’s the scenic beauty of this welcoming country, said Maryanov, “served to travelers by the glacier-full.” Sitting atop one of the world’s most volcanically active hotspots, Iceland is the combination of water and ice, wind and fire. Its organically bubbling hot springs, rugged coastal inlets, and dormant lava and ash deserts headline the country as a main attraction for wilderness lovers of all ages. Hiking, camping, whale-watching, snowmobiling and more are all possible in the many national parks throughout Iceland.
Perhaps the largest tourist attraction of Iceland, outside of the city-life of Reykjavik, is the picturesque Lake Mývatn. Surrounded by volcanic activity and home to numerous species of duck and waterfowl, the waterfalls and gorges, glaciers and fjords present outdoor and photo opportunities galore. For serious adventurers, the barren interior of Iceland is an exciting excursion. Although Maryanov advises travelers to go with an experienced guide who is familiar with the unique personality of the terrain.
“Get going because before you realize it, travelers you know will be rushing to become the first on the block to visit this Artic outpost and win bragging rights,” said Maryanov. “They’ll also have the photos to prove it.”
For more information
contact Nicole Stinson, Public Relations
(310) 312-3368