OVER ICELAND research ABOUT ICELAND Travel Magnificent landscapes, stunning skies, and real adventure make Iceland one of the most coveted travel destinations in the world. The best way to enjoy Iceland is to come here: magnificent landscapes, stunning skies, and real adventure make Iceland one of the most coveted travel destinations in the world. Far more people visit Iceland than live here—a testament to its irresistible draw. In Iceland, you can experience some of the wildest terrain on the planet while enjoying the warmth and comfort of first-class travel. Our pristine nature and laid-back personality make a great combination. Plus, there are certain things you can only do in Iceland—like standing at the edge of Europe's largest waterfall or watching the northern lights from a natural outdoor hot tub. Now that the secret's out, savvy travelers are spreading the word: Iceland is the trip of a lifetime. WHAT: Mind-blowing scenery, vibrant wildlife, dramatic horseback riding, and the soothing warmth of our natural hot springs. Truly, there is no place on Earth quite like Iceland. WHEN You can travel to Iceland any time of year—every season offers a whole new travel experience. Come in summer for the midnight sun, the cute baby puffins, and stellar hiking, or come in winter for the northern lights, the snowy peaks, and great nightlife. Our many hot springs are open all year round. WHERE Visit the cool capital Reykjavík, delve into our wild interior, disappear to our quiet coastal islands, or take time to check out our diverse regions. Iceland has it all. HOW Icelandair offers direct flights to Iceland from major airports in the United States and Canada. In fact, we're famous for our great deals. Once in Iceland, it's easy to get around by public transportation, domestic airline or rental car. However, much of Iceland is still inaccessible by road and can be enjoyed by air, sea, or off road vehicle. WHY Iceland is much closer than you think. It's exotic, affordable, and a must-see for any true traveler. What's more, Americans and Canadians require no visa to visit Iceland. Nature & Environment Iceland is a young country in the midst of its own creation. Our beautiful, bare landscapes highlight the four basic elements—earth, air, fire, and water—in a most dramatic way. Our active volcanoes, bright green valleys, glacier- cut fjords, black sand beaches, and roaring rivers are so accessible yet remain virtually untouched by human civilization. In this fast-paced world of sprawling development, Iceland's pure nature and empty expanses stand out as a luxury. Our namesake “ice” covers over 10% of the land and represents the largest glaciers left in Europe. It represents the source of our pure water and symbolizes the purity of all Icelandic products. Indeed, nature is our brand and Iceland is dedicated to preserving this natural wealth through responsible conservation. Wildlife We love our unique wildlife and love sharing it with others. Iceland is home to the largest population of puffins in the world and devoted birdwatchers flock to our shores to see dozens of rare species up close. Our waters are home to a range of whales and dolphins while arctic fox and reindeer herds roam our hills. We know the importance of healthy wildlife and are dedicated to protecting our flora and fauna. Water Iceland's water is some of the purest in the world. Clean air, regular precipitation and the natural filtration of volcanic rock lend themselves to a steady reserve of pristine water. ICELAND OVER ICELAND research Natural geothermal springs give Iceland an unending supply of hot water and for centuries, Icelanders have relaxed in the soothing, natural hot baths found all over their country. To enjoy the full experience, come soak at the Blue Lagoon, Iceland's world-famous spa that combines the purity of our water with the natural curative properties of our volcanic landscape. Iceland features over one hundred public swimming pools nationwide, the highest human-to-swimming pool ratio in the world. Climate and Nature Iceland's weather varies from clear sunny days to blustery arctic storms, and yet things never get too cold. Our naturally-heated ground and the Gulf Stream keep temperatures nice and mild year round. Music Iceland is well known worldwide for its vibrant arts scene. In the last decade, Iceland’s musical exports have taken the music world by storm. Offering an array of innovative sounds, Iceland’s music ranges from the talents of Bjork’s melodious and unique sounds, to Sigur Ros’ enchanting post rock riffs. The music of Iceland includes vibrant folk and pop traditions. Well-known artists from Iceland include medieval music group Voces Thules, alternative rock band The Sugarcubes, singers Björk and Emiliana Torrini, and post-rock band Sigur Rós. Iceland's traditional music is related to Nordic music forms. Icelandic popular music today includes many bands and artists, ranging from pop-rock groups such as Á Móti Sól (Rockstar: Supernova Magni's band), Quarashi, Bang Gang, Amiina, to solo ballad singers like Bubbi Morthens, Megas, Björgvin Halldórsson and Páll Rósinkranz, all the way to reggae band Hjálmar and Bulgarian indie-folk band Stórsveit Nix Noltes. There is also a metal and hardcore scene, including notable bands Sólstafir and Changer, and a casio-punk-pop scene spearheaded by Pool Party. People & Language On 17 June 1944, when an Icelandic republic was founded the Icelanders became independent from the Danish monarchy. The language spoken is Icelandic, a North Germanic language, and Lutheranism is the predominant religion. The people of Iceland are vibrant and beautiful, and how a very strong sense of pride for their native land. Icelanders are eager to share stories, legends, and insight about their native land. Nearly everyone in Iceland speaks both their native Icelandic language, as well as fluent English. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: http://www.iceland.is ** LOCAL VOICES *** http://www.inspiredbyiceland.com/ [ offer additional stories / voices / outtakes at the end of the dvd, online, etc. ] series promotes this idea of the “personal “ Icelandic approach ICELAND OVER ICELAND research RESOURCES / KEY SPONSORSHIP POTENTIAL ICELAND NATURALLY Icelandnaturally.com **Note: WHTV has well established contacts in the organization. ICELANDAIR Icelandair is one of the world's first trans-Atlantic airlines and an icon of global travel. Our flagship airline has carried millions of North Americans to Iceland and beyond. Icelandair is one of the world's first trans-Atlantic airlines and an icon of global travel. Our flagship airline has carried millions of North Americans to Iceland and beyond. Icelandair offers service to Iceland from Boston, New York-JFK, Seattle, and seasonal service from Minneapolis - St. Paul, Orlando Sanford, Halifax and Toronto. Non-stop connections through Icelandair's hub in Reykjavik are available to more than 20 destinations in Scandinavia, the U.K. and Continental Europe. Only Icelandair offers passengers the ability to Stopover in Iceland en route to any Icelandair destination at no additional airfare. Additional information about Icelandair, fares, and packages is available at www.icelandair.us or by calling (877) I-FLY-ICE. **Note: WHTV has well established contacts in the organization REYKA VODKA Reyka Vodka is crafted by hand in small batches, filtered through ancient lava rocks and made from the purest Icelandic spring water.The name Reyka is taken from the Icelandic word for ‘steam.' Reyka Vodka is crafted by hand in small batches, filtered through ancient lava rocks and made from the purest Icelandic spring water. Iceland's only distillery – and where Reyka is hand crafted – can be found in Borgarnes, a small village steeped in Viking History and lore. www.reyka.com 66Degrees NORTH 66°North is Iceland's largest clothing manufacturer dedicated to combining style, practicality, and durability. 66°NORTH Ltd. is one of Iceland's oldest manufacturing companies. Established in the year 1926, it's been a longtime leading innovator in the creation of specialized clothing for use in the toughest conditions on land and sea. 66°NORTH also prides itself on being an expert in the production of supreme quality clothing for sports and leisure. Not only does 66°NORTH have happy customers, but an impressive list of awards for its designs and marketing campaigns. Our garments are the most popular brand of outerwear in Iceland because they are just plain good. But don't take our word for it. The renowned Icelandic Rescue Teams, Reykjavík Police, extreme athletes, hardy fishermen and scores of Icelanders put their trust in the quality of our products every day. www.66north.com ICELANDIC USA Icelandic USA supplies North America with fresh fish from Iceland and takes pride in its sustainable fisheries model. Icelandic USA supplies North America with fresh fish from Iceland and takes pride in its sustainable fisheries model. The company is the largest importer of frozen groundfish for the foodservice industry in the U.S., best known for Icelandic® and Samband® Brand products, which are served in restaurants throughout the U.S. and Canada. Icelandic® Brand seafood is regarded throughout the industry as the world's highest-quality, freshest-tasting fish. Quality and product consistency are rigorously monitored for texture, color, and shape to ensure that restaurant patrons always have a superior dining experience. We bring the freshness of Icelandic seafood to you. www.icelandic.com **Note: WHTV has well established contacts in the organization. VISIT ICELAND (N. AMERICA) Visit Iceland - North America is the official tourist office promoting Iceland as a choice destination for travelers from the United States and Canada. Why Iceland? Because there's no place else like it! The Visit Iceland - North America is the official tourist office promoting Iceland as a choice destination for travelers from the United States and Canada.