A look at Iceland through statistics, numbers and arbitrary comparisons
Iceland is a place of extremes. From the mountains to the valleys to the volcanoes to the glaciers, the country does not do things by half measures. And neither do the Icelandic people, as a nation they seem determined that if they can't be the best at something, they're gonna be the absolute worst. Anything rather than ordinary.
An island the size of Kentucky in the middle of the North Atlantic Ocean, sporting a population of only 330.000 people, with its own language, culture and its own rich history. The country boasts a number of world-record holders in different disciplines and a number of prominent artists in different fields, as well as being politically unique and incredibly progressive in many ways. Finally the country boasts some impressive records for medication and bad habits.
But how do we best describe the country? Let's paint a picture using statistics and numbers.
How do you like Iceland?
- Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland, is the northernmost capital in the world.
- Iceland is the least densely populated country in northern Europe, (9th in the world). In fact, the population is so small, a popular pass-time when meeting someone you don't know, is asking where they're from and finding a mutual acquaintance (there is always a mutual acquaintance). This means it's a great place to get away from droves of tourists and travel off the beaten track, especially if you get out in the country.
- Iceland has more sheep than people.
- Vatnajökull (Water-glacier), in the east of Iceland is the largest icecap in Europe.
- Iceland has a lot of waterfalls, among them Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.
Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe, with a person next to it for scale.
- Icelanders are the most friendly people in the world.
Iceland the green
Iceland is ranked as a “strong performer” when it comes to green living, which is unsurprising when you consider that:
- All of the country's electricity comes from very environmentally sound hydro- and geothermal electric plants.
- 90% of space heating comes in the form of geothermal water, heated naturally by the earth.
Nesjavellir Power Plant or, as we were told when we were small: "Where clouds are made".
Iceland the Literary
- Iceland has a 99.9% literacy rate, which might explain why...
- Iceland has the most authors in the world per capita – on average 1 in 10 Icelanders publishes a book at some point in their life. Which is not so strange considering that...
- Icelanders read the most books in the world per capita. This all ties in to Iceland's rich literary history, dating back to the 12th century sagas of the Vikings.
So, is Iceland the best country in the world? Maybe. Maybe not. You can, of course, prove anything using statistics, and when Icelanders claim the country is "the best", it's usually done with more than a little humour. However, it is interesting that such a small country has so many claims to fame on a world scale, so maybe you just need to come here and find out for yourself.
