Just before Covid Iceland was in the midst of an unprecedented tourist boom that brought wealth to the country, but also myriads of issues and challenges. Through a series of short essays, this book provides a unique insight into the social and environmental impact that tourism is having on Iceland and intelligence offers invaluable tips for touring safely, responsibly, and in harmony with the locals. A fascinating resource for anyone interested in contemporary Iceland, and an essential companion for all visitors to the country.
Among the topics addressed in this book:
• Why now? – Reasons for the tourism boom in Iceland
• The impact of tourism on Iceland’s housing market, health care system, law enforcement, and search and rescue operations
• Klondike fever in the Icelandic tourism industry
• Touring Iceland and staying safe: the main dangers of travel in Iceland
• Out driving: essential things to keep in mind on Iceland’s roads
• What they think of us: complaints that tourists of different nationalities have about Iceland and Icelanders
• What we think of them: tourist behaviours that really, seriously irk the Icelanders
• Crazy stories of tourists in Iceland
• The environmental footprint: depletion of natural resources, pollution, and the physical impact of tourism
• Taxing tourists, or not – the endless debate
• How the locals really feel about the tourist invasion
• The truth about those Iceland myths: jailed bankers, refusal to bail out banks, believing in elves, incest app, promiscuity, disgusting food …
… and much more.