Shopping in Iceland NEVER EASYER Anyone traveling in Iceland is quick to appreciate the energy and power that resides in this small, North Atlantic island, a land of fire and ice, a land of natural contracts that are forever in turmoil. Living on this volcano of natural wonders are the Icelanders, a nation of colorful, creative people, most of whom express themselves in poetry, music, painting, sculpting, crafts or any number of other art forms. When planning a trip to Iceland, it is advisable to do it at home before departing so as not to miss a second of enjoyment after you have arrived. There are plenty of books, maps, and other information available on the Internet. Making this search easy and fun is www.nordicstore.net, a site that specializes in selling Icelandic products, as well as information about the nation and its residents. Everything you need to plan and enjoy a great trip to Iceland––and relive it after you have returned home––is available on the site. Iceland – pleasantly surprising Many tourists are surprised at Iceland’s modernity and cultural depth. Shopping in Iceland is equivalent to that in major cities. Stores offer a diverse variety of merchandise, for example elegant fashions found in chic boutiques around the world. There are also exciting ranges of Icelandic fashion designs, both classical and elegant, created by Icelanders, many of whom have made a name for themselves abroad. The present Most visitors to Iceland appreciate the clean air, pure water, and closeness to nature at her boldest. Icelandic lamb meat is testimony to this clean environment, as sheep spend the summer roaming wild in the countryside and mountains. Smoked lamb meat, Hangikjöt, is a national dish that is on the table of most Icelanders over Christmas, together with jólaöl, a blend of malt and orange soda. Another national dish that should be tasted is Skyr, a low-fat dairy product similar to yogurt that is available in various flavors. Clean and pure Since Iceland is an island, Icelanders through the centuries have had to survive on what nature provides. Many companies produce products that have their roots in this tradition, for example processing Icelandic herbs. Various health products have been developed that are considered among the best available anywhere. Many who have tried them believe that they are a kind of “magic potion.” Icelanders have long believed in supernatural powers embedded in Icelandic nature, so the healing powers in these products are not without foundation. Food and culture As mentioned above, Icelanders have survived by utilizing what nature provides, and today there are excellent restaurants offering most everything between heaven and earth. Iceland is like a harbor in the center of rich fishing grounds, which makes fish a common source of fresh food. This includes fish that is dried outdoors in fresh air, and eaten as a great snack with butter. The more adventurous drink Brennivín with dried fish, Icelandic schnapps that is affectionately nicknamed Black Death. Icelandic culture is both diverse and worthy of note. Handicrafts are available around the country, as is jewelry and various souvenirs that please the eye as well as the sensibilities. The adventure, however, does not have to end even if Iceland is far away. The Internet gives everyone the opportunity to experience Iceland as often as you wish. At www.nordicstore.net you can easily and conveniently shop for Icelandic products––or just experience Iceland by browsing the pages.