Iceland is a small island nation located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, which are characterized by volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, and hot springs. Iceland is also home to a thriving cultural scene, with a rich history and vibrant contemporary art and music scenes. Iceland is a land of fire and ice. With its volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and glaciers, it’s no wonder this Nordic island country is a top travel destination. Here are 10 things to know before you visit Iceland

Below, is a list of ten interesting facts about Iceland you should know.

Number 10. About 11% of Iceland is covered by glaciers

Glaciers cover 11% of Iceland, according to studies! Iceland has almost 269 named glaciers, which are one of its main attractions. Iceland is also home to Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull, which is three times the size of Luxembourg or Rhode Island!

Number 9. The Northern Lights can be seen in Iceland from September to March

Have you ever witnessed the Northern Lights in person? Thousands of travellers flock to Iceland every year to see the Aurora Borealis, which is a spectacular natural phenomenon. The best time to see this natural light show is from September to March, although there is no guarantee. Solar particles interact with the atmosphere in the Earth’s magnetic field to create this incredible natural phenomenon. 

Number 8. There is no McDonald’s in Iceland 

Big Macs are also unlikely to be found in Iceland. At first, McDonald’s had a few branches in Reykjavik, and the famous burger franchise was a success. The business, however, declined after the initial period. Furthermore, after the financial crash in 2008, Icelandic ingredients soared in price, and McDonald’s food followed suit. McDonald’s restaurants in Iceland were ultimately shut down as a result of this domino effect.

Number 7. Iceland is one of the most eco-friendly countries in the world

In Iceland, almost all electricity is generated using renewable energy sources, which makes it one of the world’s most eco-friendly countries. Reykjavik won the Nordic Nature and Environment Prize in 2014 and is working towards becoming carbon-neutral by 2040.

Number 6. Many Icelanders believe in elves and trolls

Elves, trolls, and other mystical creatures have been believed in since the Viking age. There are plenty of stories to be told, so remember to spare some time to speak with an Icelander! 

Number 5. Iceland have no standing army

The explosive geography of Iceland might make the country seem intimidating, but it is actually a quiet and laid-back place. Young people don’t have to worry about being drafted into combat anytime soon, as violent crime is very low. There is no standing army, air force, or navy in Iceland, the only NATO country without any of these. The country does have a Crisis Response Unit (ICRU), which is a small peacekeeping force of about 200 people. In most cases, these employees do not wear uniforms or carry weapons. There is also a national coast guard and an air defence system. However, without a standing army, there is no permanent, professional, full-time military force.

Number 4. Beer day” celebrates the end of a long Beer Ban

Iceland also experienced a period of prohibition that failed. Iceland celebrates the end of prohibition with a national beer festival, unlike the United States! An alcohol ban was imposed on Iceland in 1915. As countries such as Spain wanted to export wine to Iceland, that ban was amended when it affected their import/export business. The ban lasted until 1989. As of now, beer is Iceland’s most popular alcoholic beverage.

Number 3. You can swim outdoors in hot springs all year round

An Icelandic experience would not be complete without a dip in a hot spring! Swimming in volcanically heated pools outdoors dates back to Viking times.  There are hot springs all over the country and they come in all different sizes and shapes.

Number 2. Iceland was the last place on earth to be settled by humans

It is considered to be one of the youngest landmasses on earth, and one of the last places settled by humans. Iceland was discovered by accident over 1,100 years ago by Vikings from Norway.

Number 1. Iceland’s national sport is handball

Sports like football, basketball, volleyball, and horseback riding are popular among Icelanders, but did you know that handball is the national sport? It is played between two teams of seven players on a rectangular field, and the objective is to score by driving the ball into the opposing goal. The team with the most goals at the end of 60 minutes wins! Icelanders enjoy playing (and watching) handball, and the national team won a silver medal at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

To sum it up, Iceland is a great destination with lots to offer people from around the world. Tourists can enjoy the beautiful scenery, visit amazing places, enjoy excellent food and much more. The interesting history and population of the country make it an interesting destination to visit.