Iceland

The only view most Americans get of Iceland is from 35,000 feet as they look out the airplane window on their flight to the continent. From that height, you can see snow and rock. For those who look closer, it is a country of fire and ice that will provide an unique European experience.

You arrive in Iceland at the Rekjavik airport, which Iceland Airlines uses as home base. The city of Rekjavik is unique, getting its heat and energy from the geothermal activity that also fuel the volcanos of the country.

One of the most popular trips through Iceland leaves Rekjavik to visit the its beautiful national park, Thingvillir. It continues on to Althing, the place were the Icelandic parliament began meeting in 930. From there you continue to the great Geysir, where there are many active geysers including the world's most active geyser. The next stop is at Gullfoss Waterfall, where the might Hvita River drops almost 100 feet creating Europe's most powerful waterfalls.

Though its heritage is very European, most visitors to Iceland make the journey to explore its frigid beauty and to meet the people of this amazing nation. For more information about passport and travel restrictions and requirements, go to Iceland's Directorate of Immigration website.