The Sound of Iceland: How Nature Shapes Icelandic Music
By Chris Ayliffe, Arctic Meta Iceland is not a quiet country. It just sounds different. The wind speaks first, the ocean follows, and somewhere in between, music finds its shape (can you believe these rhythmic natural sounds of the North even existed before Björk?). This is a place where nature does not sit in the […]
Can You Learn Old Norse Today? A Beginner’s Guide
By Chris Ayliffe, Arctic Meta Old Norse may feel ancient at first glance but it still shapes moments in the present day (and plenty of local mumbles). You can hear traces of it in local expressions, in place names that seem to hum with age, and in the confident way Icelanders speak about their heritage. […]
Iceland’s Summer Solstice Secrets: Pagan Legends Revealed
By Chris Ayliffe, Arctic Meta If you’re heading to Iceland for the summer solstice, pack a sense of wonder. And maybe an eye mask if you’re a summer insomniac like me. Because here, the sun takes its sweet time saying goodbye. In fact, it doesn’t fully. There’s a reason the ancient Norse treated this light-filled […]
Iceland’s Tasty & Quirky Traditions: Bolludagur, Sprengidagur & Öskudagur
by Chris Ayliffe, Arctic Meta Introduction Iceland in February is a land of contrasts. The days are still short, the nights long, and the landscapes covered in a thick blanket of snow. But beneath the icy exterior lies a country bursting with warmth, festivity, and delicious traditions. While many visitors come for the Northern Lights […]
What You Need to Know About Iceland New Year’s Festivities
By Chris Ayliffe, Arctic Meta New Year’s Eve in Iceland is an unparalleled experience, combining the country’s breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and a spirit of celebration that is truly unique. As the clock ticks down to midnight, the skies light up with fireworks while roaring bonfires warm the crisp winter air. Add to this the […]
Everything You Need to Know About Christmas in Iceland
By Chris Ayliffe, Arctic Meta If you’re dreaming of a truly magical Christmas, Iceland should be at the top of your list. The holiday season here isn’t just about twinkling lights and snow-dusted rooftops, though you’ll find plenty of those. Christmas in Iceland is a rich tapestry of ancient traditions, folklore, and culinary delights that […]
The Top 13 Festivals in Iceland
By Jonathan Duffy, Arctic Meta There are many things Iceland is known for. Long summer days, snow-covered winters, fascinatingly beautiful landscapes, volcanoes, black sand beaches, waterfalls, glaciers, and the list goes on. Each year, people travel to Iceland from all over the world to be able to see and experience the best attractions the country […]