The Iceland trip is viewed by many as one of the best of the year. This Easter was no exception, from visiting the Blue Lagoon recently titled as one of the 25 wonders of the world by National Geographic, to the National Parks situated all over the rugged and barren landscapes of volcanic overflow. Geographers learned about one of the many important new ways of creating electricity. Iceland is at the forefront of the geothermal energy business as warm water heated by the earth’s core is used for all aspects of Icelandic life; from heating water, creating electricity and melting ice on the roads. We visited Hellisheidi power plant which gave a greater understanding of how the Icelandic people are aiming to become an almost entirely green (renewable fuel sources) country. Iceland is a truly unforgettable experience for all; the temperature dropping to -7ºC is biting but with extraordinary experiences on offer one soon gets over it.
As soon as you arrive you can see how the Icelandic people have adapted to the harsh landscape. With only 1% arable land, surprisingly, Iceland is still pretty much self sufficient, as they only fish for half of the year to allow fishing stocks to replenish, they are deeply in touch with their landscape. Waterfalls flourishing out of the ground pouring melted glacial ice and snow onto the ground. Huge waves crashing into the sides of the countries forming vast cliffs and jutting rock formations, and black sand on beaches from ash ejected out of the local volcanoes. All of this amazing scenery adds to Iceland’s natural charm.
By Tom Bradford, Block 4
