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The revolving Perlan Restaurant in
Reykjavik sits on five tanks of geothermally
heated water.
-- Photo courtesy of www.iceland.org
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Have you ever thought of a Fulbright experience
in Iceland….?
Iceland is unique, beautiful and in tune with
its natural environment. Moreover, Icelanders
are known for their hospitality.
Iceland is the second largest island in the
north Atlantic Ocean and is only about a three
hour flight from London, Paris, Amsterdam or
Copenhagen. With a population of about 300,000,
Iceland is approximately 40,000 square miles—equal
in size to Ohio. Hvannadalshnukur, the
highest peak in Iceland is 6,500 feet above
sea level and the coastline dotted with more
than 100 fjords with green fertile valleys
extending from them. Numerous hot springs and
over 10,000 waterfalls also add to the beauty
of the island. Below are some facts about this
amazing country.
The beauty of the country lies in its stunning
contrasts. Though largely an arctic desert,
Iceland is scattered with mountains, glaciers,
volcanoes, waterfalls and rich fishing grounds.
Agricultural areas border to the coastline.
Geothermal springs rise up from the earth to
provide energy and recreation for Icelanders
and visitors alike.
Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, is the world's
most northern capital. The name Reykjavik means
"Smoky Bay," so named by the first
settlers in the 9th century because of steam
that rises from geothermal hot springs. Of the
total population of about 300,000 in Iceland,
over 180,000 live in Reykjavik.
Historical sites, museums and galleries, excellent
shops, parks, theaters and much more can be found
in this beautiful capital.
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Winter in Akureyri
-- Photo courtesy of Ed Jackson-- |
Since the establishment of the Fulbright Program
in Iceland on February 23, 1957, about 400
American lecturers, researchers, students
and distinguished senior scholars in a variety
of disciplines have worked in educational
institutions in Iceland. These Fulbright grantees
have had enjoyable, rewarding and even life
changing experiences.
The following are some extracts from the
reports of former Fulbright Scholars: |
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"[My Fulbright grant in Iceland] was a
wonderful experience. I learned a lot and returned
to my home institution in the U.S. rejuvenated …
The students I taught seemed quite happy with
the opportunity to take courses they cannot
ordinarily access … The university is a
wonderful place to work. The faculty members
were cordial and helpful in every way."
(A scholar in anthropology, who lectured at
the University of Iceland.)
"My research work in art was based on
backpacking trips into the wilderness and recording
my experiences using a sketchbook and photography.
Arrangements for these excursions were done
on my arrival. All the tourist agencies, transportation
agencies, country-wide bussing systems, and
wilderness parks personnel were efficient, helpful
and personable. Their tourist agencies were
excellent." (A researcher in fine arts
who was affiliated with the Icelandic College
of Arts and Crafts.)
I consider this Fulbright lectureship at the
University of Iceland to be the most rewarding
experience in my professional academic life
since I taught my first class 34 years ago."
(A scholar in political science who lectured
at the University of Iceland.)
"I continued to learn more about how Icelanders
think, and about their culture by attending
concerts, art galleries, historical sites …
I believe that future Fulbrighters in the Department
of Nursing can look forward to a rewarding experience
and a milieu in which there is eagerness for
new ideas."
(A scholar in nursing, who lectured at the University
of Iceland.)
Iceland-United States Fulbright Commission
http://www.fulbright.is/front_e.asp
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
http://www.iceland.is/
Tourist Information for Iceland
http://www.icetourist.is/
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Newspapers / Magazines
/ Media
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Facts about Iceland
www.goiceland.org/facts.html
Photos and links
http://www.edjackson.ca/iceland/index.htm
Links focusing
on history and mythology
www.simnet.is/gardarj/iceland.htm
Daily news
from Iceland: "Iceland Review Online"
http://icelandreview.com/
Links
to universities in Iceland
http://www.hi.is/id/1002800
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_universities_in_Iceland
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