Why go to Iceland to see the Northern Lights?

Is viewing the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) high on your bucket list? This mesmerizing display of colors, patterns, and movement in the night sky has fascinated us for centuries.

Before science could explain these dancing, light shows (solar activity ionizing in the atmosphere), theories abounded. A couple of my favorites: The Norse theorized it was the glinting of the armor of the Valkyries. Some Native American groups believed they were spirits of the dead; the brighter they shined, the happier the dead were said to be.

There are many incredible locations from which to observe this fascinating phenomenon – Finland, Norway, Alaska, Northern Canada. One of the most popular, and arguably, the best is Iceland. Less cloud cover, longer winter nights, and low ambient lighting combine to make more frequent and better opportunities for viewing.

Here are three different ways to experience this glorious sight.

Thingvellir National Park is a favorite choice and is within easy reach of Reykjavik. Not only is Thingvellir a national park, it’s also an historic site. So, you have an opportunity to see a rare vision and gain some insight on Iceland’s fascinating history.

By water – a boat onto one of the lagoons is an incredible way to experience this mesmerizing experience. Out to sea, far from light pollution, you can feel a sense of kinship with the Vikings of old.

If you're looking for a different kind of experience, try Seljavallalaug – one of the many  geothermal pools and the oldest in Iceland. Swimming in the middle of nowhere, while watching the northern lights, is not something many people can say they have done.

Are you ready to go to Iceland? Call or email me today and we’ll start the planning. 888-429-1929/terri@sevenwondersgrouptravel.com

What are the Seven Natural Wonders of the World?

The Seven Wonders of the Ancient World was the original top destination guide. As I wrote last year, numerous Seven Wonders lists have evolved, for better or worse: new wonders, man-made wonders, engineering wonders, etc.

Naturally occurring wonders is a fun list. Some are over-achievers, being listed on other “Seven Wonders” lists. And whether you agree or disagree with the designation, they are all worth the trip!

Victoria Falls, named after Queen Victoria by explorer David Livingston, is locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or The Smoke that Thunders. Located on the Zambezi River where it crosses Zimbabwe and Zambia the falls are over one-mile long. In addition to drinking in the views, sunset cruises and river-rafting are additional activities by which to enjoy the river. And if you’re in Southern Africa, you must include a safari! In addition to Zimbabwe and Zambia, Botswana, South Africa, and Namibia all have great safari offerings and are near the falls. What an adventure!

Harbor of Rio De Janeiro, or Guanabara Bay was naturally created by erosion from the Atlantic Ocean. It is the world’s largest natural deep-water bay and has some of the world’s most famous and spectacular beaches. Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches, Christ the Redeemer, Carnavale Festival. How do you want to spend your time in Rio?

The Grand Canyon is 277 miles long and up to 18 miles wide at its broadest. Carved by the Colorado River over many millenniums, this spectacular site is visited by over 4 million people annually. More visited in summer, try fall, spring, or even winter to avoid crowds. You can explore via pack mule, hiking, helicopter, or van. Lodging ranges from backpack camping to three-star hotels within the park. More luxurious accommodations are a short drive away from the park entrance. How about a spa retreat combined with a Grand Canyon visit? Ahhh.

The youngest volcano in the world, Paricutin Volcano’s birth was witnessed rather than discovered after the fact. First erupted in 1943 in a cornfield while a farmer was plowing and grew 1200 feet its first year. Fortunately, the lava flow was slow enough to allow local villagers to escape unharmed. It last erupted in 1952 and is considered dormant. Over 9,000 feet in elevation, it provides a spectacular view of surrounding countryside. Located in Michoacán, Mexico, it is a great side trip to a beach vacation in the Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo area.

There are many places from which to view the Aurora Borealis – aka the Northern Lights. Northern US, Canada, Iceland, Finland, and Norway all have great viewing. One of the best sites is Fairbanks, Alaska. High latitude plus easy escape from light pollution in the surrounding countryside make this a popular viewing destination. Add a Winter Carnival, sled dog races, and Denali National Park and you’ve got a spectacular winter vacation.

Mt Everest at 29,029 feet tall, is the highest and most iconic peak on the planet. Although scaling the peak is on my naughty list, I highly recommend viewing it. If you’re are a hiker, there are various treks ranging from a few hours to several days to Everest Base Camp. If hiking isn’t your thing, the camp is accessible by car for that Kodak moment. Kathmandu, Nepal is the primary international gateway to Mt. Everest and is a wonderful destination unto its own. A yoga retreat or spiritual tour of the Lhasa monasteries are possibilities.

The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland, Australia is the largest living thing on earth. An ecosystem over 1400 miles long and visible from space. While it may be scuba divers’ number one bucket list item, dive skills aren’t required to enjoy and view this wonder. Snorkel, sailing, even submarines are all means to see and appreciate the innumerable species of fish, corals, and sea life. Miles and miles of sun-kissed beaches make this a tropical paradise. And, a perfect way to relax after spending time in the Australian Outback!

Are any of these Natural Wonders on your bucket list? If so, I’d love to help you plan a trip that exceeds your expectations and leaves the worries and details to us.