Schengen Visa from India: Which Countries Have the Easiest Approval Rate?

Schengen Area countries are known for their diverse landscapes, breath taking views, rich culture, and captivating history. Indian travellers prefer exploring the hidden attractions of these countries, which increases the rate of Schengen visa applications to these regions.

However, the visa approval procedure is difficult for every nation in the Schengen area, which can delay or hamper your vacation plans. Thus, if you plan to visit the Schengen region, here are the 10 countries that offer easy visa applications for Indians.

Top 10 Countries that have Easiest Visa Approval Rates from India

Here are the 10 Schengen countries that provide hassle-free visa approvals to Indian applicants:

1. Iceland

This Nordic country tops the touring bucket list of most travel enthusiasts. Its breath taking landscape, dramatic Northern Lights, blue lagoons, natural geysers, live volcanoes, and other attractions attract tourists worldwide.

Iceland's visa rejection rate is 2.22%, which reflects an approximately 98% chance of visa approval.

Given below are some travel-specific details for tourists visiting this country:

● Tourist Attractions: Blue Lagoon, Gullfoss Waterfall, Thingvellir National Park, Hallgrimskirkja Church, Vatnajökull Glacier.

● Things to Do: Northern Lights watching, glacier hiking, volcano tours, whale watching in Husavik

2. Finland

Finland is also known as the Happiest Country in the World, as its spellbound beauty is sure to make your heart happy. In winter, it is covered with white snow everywhere, offering a unique look at nature.

Also, Finland's dense forests, tranquil lakes, and midnight sun attract tourists worldwide. This Schengen country has a visa rejection rate of 6.05%, improving the chances of approval by 94%.

Now, here’s what makes Finland a special place for travellers:

● Tourist Attractions: Santa Claus Village (Rovaniemi), Helsinki Cathedral, Suomenlinna Fortress, Lake Saimaa, Levi Ski Resort.

● Things to Do: Husky safaris, ice fishing, sauna experiences, and stay in glass igloos.

3. Switzerland

Most couples desire a romantic honeymoon in Switzerland. The breath taking view of the Alps, beautiful Swiss villages, stunning valleys, and peaceful lakes make Switzerland a perfect destination for travel enthusiasts.

Its visa rejection rate is only 10.7%, which increases the chances of getting an easy approval.

Highlighted below are what makes this country so special for enthusiastic travellers:

● Tourist Attractions: Matterhorn, Jungfrau Region, Lake Geneva, Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, Château de Chillon.

● Things to Do: Scenic train rides (Glacier Express), skiing in Zermatt or St. Moritz, hiking in the Alps, chocolate tasting, cable car rides.

4. Latvia

This picturesque Baltic region is renowned for its rich history and culture, making it a must-visit Schengen country. Travellers can immerse themselves in the stunning natural landscapes and greenery while exploring Latvia's capital, Riga, famous for its Art Nouveau architecture.

You can wander through charming cobblestone streets, admire beautiful cathedrals, and relax in cosy cafes. With only an 11.7% visa rejection rate, this country offers tourists smooth and easy visa approval.

These features make the country a favourite among travel enthusiasts.

● Tourist Attractions: Riga Old Town, Rundāle Palace, Gauja National Park, Jurmala Beach, Turaida Castle.

● Things to Do: Explore Art Nouveau architecture, attend local festivals, cycle in nature parks, and visit Soviet bunkers.

5. Luxembourg

Luxembourg is one of the richest countries in the Schengen region, known for its luxurious lifestyle and ecstatic beauty. This country offers a blend of history and modernity, as you can explore the medieval towns of Echternach and Vianden. Besides, the hiking trails in the Mullerthal Region offer stunning natural beauty and greenery.

The visa rejection rate in Luxembourg is only 12.7%, ensuring smooth approval upon application.

Below are the reasons this country captures the hearts of travel lovers.

● Tourist Attractions: Luxembourg City Old Quarters, Bock Casemates, Vianden Castle, Grand Ducal Palace.

● Things to Do: Explore fairy tale castles, wine tasting in Moselle Valley, hiking in Mullerthal Trail.

6. Lithuania

Lithuania, a Baltic state with a friendly visa policy, boasts a high tourist approval rate, with only a 12.8% visa rejection rate. Its cultural richness is evident in the Baroque architecture of Vilnius and the scenic Curonian Spit. This hidden gem offers vibrant cities, medieval castles, and stunning natural landscapes that captivate visitors.

Exploring these sites allows travellers to appreciate Lithuania's rich history and diverse beauty.

● Tourist Attractions: Vilnius Old Town, Trakai Castle, Hill of Crosses, Curonian Spit, Gediminas Tower.

● Things to Do: Kayaking on the Neris River, exploring Soviet history, and visiting amber workshops.

7. Slovakia

Applying for a Schengen visa from India to Slovakia is appealing due to its efficient process and the warm hospitality of locals. Visa rejection rates in Slovakia are 12.9%, which improves approval chances. To secure approval, applicants must submit the required documents and attend an interview.

Once in Slovakia, visitors can enjoy:

● Tourist Attractions: Bratislava Castle, Spiš Castle, High Tatras Mountains, Slovak Paradise National Park.

● Things to Do: Hiking in national parks, skiing in winter resorts, exploring medieval towns, and cave spelunking.

8. Austria

Known for its scenic beauty, Austria offers an ecstatic view of the Alps from Salzburg and Innsbruck. It is one of the most captivating locations in Schengen that exhibits scenic beauty at its best. Austria has the best attractions for music lovers, with its City of Music, Vienna.

This Schengen country has a visa rejection rate of 14.3%. However, one can quickly get a visa by fulfilling the basic requirements, such as clearly stating the purpose of the visit and acquiring travel insurance.

Here’s why this place is a bucket-list destination for travel lovers.

● Tourist Attractions: Schönbrunn Palace, Hallstatt, Salzburg’s Old Town, Vienna State Opera, Hohensalzburg Fortress.

● Things to Do: Attend classical concerts, explore Christmas markets, alpine hiking, and cycling along the Danube.

9. Greece

Greece's stunning beauty is hard to resist. Although its visa rejection rate is 14.7%, obtaining a visa is easy with proper documentation. Visitors can indulge in Mediterranean cuisine and explore ancient ruins that reveal Greece's rich history.

The breath taking islands offer a perfect retreat to bask in the sun while enjoying comfort and beauty. There’s more:

● Tourist Attractions: Acropolis of Athens, Santorini caldera, Delphi ruins, Meteora monasteries, Knossos Palace.

● Things to Do: Island hopping (Cyclades, Ionian Islands), beach lounging, mythological tours, hiking Mount Olympus.

10. Portugal

Portugal welcomes you with beautiful beaches, historical monuments, and much more. You can explore this country's distinctive history and culture while walking down the roads of Lisbon and visiting the vineyards in Douro Valley.

The visa rejection rate in this country is 18.14%. They have an easy and smooth visa application process, increasing the approval rate.

Here’s why this place is a bucket-list destination for travel lovers.

● Tourist Attractions: Belem Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, Douro Valley, Pena Palace (Sintra), Algarve beaches.

● Things to Do: Fado music nights, surfing in Nazaré, tram rides in Lisbon, and wine tasting in Porto.

Top 5 Tips for a Successful Schengen Visa Application

To secure an easy visa approval, only a little preparation is required. Here are some of the tips for a successful visa approval:

● Apply Early

You can start the application process at least two months before your planned date of departure. This will help avoid last-minute hiccups. If you have enough time, you can patiently wait for the visa.

● Select the Right Destination

While filling out the application form, make sure you select the country. You can visit the country's embassy when applying for a visa to avoid this mistake.

● Arrange All Necessary Documents

While applying for a visa, you should keep all the essential documents handy. The list includes a passport with a minimum validity of 6 months, flight reservation, accommodation proof, passport-size photo, and proof of financial status.

● Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for every tourist visiting Schengen countries. It adds a layer of protection in an unknown land during situations like passport loss, flight cancellations, medical emergencies, etc.

● Be Mindful

Don't make any mistakes while filling out the form. Incomplete information, missing documents, and even minor errors can lead to visa rejection.

● Provide the Right Information

If the authorities find that you have provided false information, they will reject your visa application. So, it is better to avoid the hassle and maintain honesty while providing information.

Things to Consider While Applying for a Schengen Visa from India

Here are some of the factors that affect the Schengen visa approval process from India:

● International Relations with the Country

India’s relationship with the Schengen country for which you want to apply for a visa is crucial as it actively influences the approval process.

● Tourism Policies of the Country

If the country for which you are applying for a Schengen visa is focused on flourishing its tourism, it will have a seamless visa procedure. Easy approvals will attract more tourists, boosting the country’s tourism to new heights.

● Economic Influence

Some Schengen countries promote tourism to strengthen their economy. If you are travelling to any such nation, the chances of visa approvals are high.

Now that you know which Schengen countries offer a seamless visa application process and have higher approval rates, you can plan your trip accordingly. However, while applying for a visa, always arrange documents like bank statements, travel insurance, etc., to secure a hassle-free approval.

Note: The image in this article is courtesy of brgfx on Freepik.

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Europe’s Healthiest Destinations for a Rejuvenating Trip

Europe offers an incredible variety of travel experiences, from vibrant cities to scenic landscapes, but there are also destinations that provide the ultimate retreat for those looking to rejuvenate their body and mind. Whether you’re seeking wellness resorts, natural hot springs, or quiet getaways in nature, Europe has a wealth of destinations perfect for restoring your health and well-being.

In this article, we highlight some of Europe’s healthiest destinations that promise a rejuvenating trip, offering everything from luxurious spa experiences to outdoor activities that nourish the body and soul. As always, to protect your health, make sure you're covered for your existing health conditions before you travel.

1. Lake Geneva, Switzerland

Switzerland has long been a destination known for its wellness offerings, and Lake Geneva is one of the top spots for rejuvenation. Surrounded by the majestic Alps and lush vineyards, this serene location provides an ideal environment for relaxation. Wellness resorts offer state-of-the-art spa treatments, fitness centers, and world-class facilities to help you unwind.

What makes Lake Geneva unique is its combination of natural beauty and health-enhancing activities. You can take part in hiking, yoga retreats, and even meditation classes while enjoying the breath taking views of the lake and mountains. The crisp, clean air and tranquillity of the region make it a perfect destination for mental and physical well-being.

2. Budapest, Hungary



Known for its historical thermal baths, Budapest is an excellent destination for those seeking a combination of relaxation and health benefits. The city is home to some of Europe’s most famous bathhouses, including the Széchenyi Thermal Bath and the Gellért Baths, which offer natural thermal waters known for their healing properties.

In addition to the baths, Budapest offers wellness hotels, like the Corinthia Hotel Budapest, where you can indulge in spa treatments, massages, and beauty therapies. The city also has a vibrant food scene focused on healthy, fresh ingredients, with numerous restaurants offering plant-based and organic dishes. A trip to Budapest provides a perfect balance of relaxation, culture, and wellness.

3. Tuscany, Italy



Known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and rustic charm, Tuscany is not just a destination for food lovers—it’s also an ideal place for those looking to recharge and focus on wellness. Many of the region’s luxurious countryside resorts and spa hotels offer holistic treatments, from wine therapy to olive oil massages, inspired by the local traditions.

Castello di Casole is a renowned wellness resort that provides rejuvenating treatments, yoga retreats, and fitness programs. The region’s peaceful surroundings are perfect for walking and hiking in nature, and the fresh air paired with the Mediterranean diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, and olive oil, makes Tuscany a great destination for overall well-being.

4. Iceland



Iceland has become one of Europe’s most popular wellness destinations due to its unique combination of natural beauty and healing geothermal resources. The country is dotted with hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and spectacular waterfalls, making it a great place to relax and rejuvenate.

The Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s most famous wellness spots, is a geothermal spa with silica-rich water that offers a range of skin treatments. Located in the heart of a lava field, the lagoon offers a magical and soothing experience. Iceland is also known for its outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming in natural hot springs, and exploring its vast wilderness, all of which provide both physical and mental benefits.

5. The Swiss Alps, Switzerland



For those seeking a wellness retreat that combines the invigorating benefits of nature with luxurious spa treatments, the Swiss Alps are the place to be. Towns like Zermatt and Grindelwald offer stunning landscapes that are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and mountaineering.

Many resorts in the region, like the Kulm Hotel in St. Moritz, offer a range of wellness services, from hydrotherapy to massage and holistic healing. The fresh mountain air and spectacular alpine vistas contribute to a sense of calm and renewal, making the Swiss Alps an ideal destination for rejuvenation. Whether you're hiking through lush meadows or relaxing in a spa, the Swiss Alps provide the perfect balance of physical activity and rest.

6. The French Riviera, France



While the French Riviera is famous for its glamorous beaches and lively cities, it’s also home to a variety of wellness retreats and health-focused resorts. With its Mediterranean climate, the region offers plenty of sunshine and fresh air, perfect for a rejuvenating vacation.

Destinations like Nice and Cannes feature luxury hotels that offer health and wellness programs, including spa treatments, yoga sessions, and fitness activities. The Château de la Chèvre d'Or in Èze, for example, offers a stunning setting with a spa focused on holistic treatments. The mild climate, combined with access to Mediterranean cuisine, rich in fresh seafood and vegetables, ensures a relaxing and health-boosting experience.

7. Madeira, Portugal



Madeira, a lush, volcanic island off the coast of Portugal, is known for its stunning scenery and natural beauty, making it an excellent destination for a rejuvenating trip. The island offers numerous wellness hotels that combine luxury with holistic treatments, including massages, hydrotherapy, and natural skincare.

A great place to stay is the Belmond Reid’s Palace, which offers a variety of wellness programs, including fitness classes and spa treatments designed to help you unwind and rejuvenate. The island’s beautiful botanical gardens, rich in exotic plants, and the crystal-clear waters make it a great spot for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and nature walks.

8. Mallorca, Spain



The island of Mallorca in Spain offers more than just sun, sea, and sand; it’s also an excellent destination for wellness-focused travelers. The island is home to several luxurious spa resorts like Fontsanta Hotel Thermal Spa, which takes advantage of natural thermal waters to offer revitalizing treatments.

Mallorca’s varied landscapes—ranging from sandy beaches to rugged mountains—provide a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and yoga. The Mediterranean climate and fresh, healthy cuisine also contribute to the island’s rejuvenating qualities.

Conclusion

Europe offers a wide array of destinations for those seeking a rejuvenating trip that focuses on health and wellness. Whether you’re looking to relax in natural hot springs, explore the outdoors, or indulge in spa treatments, these destinations provide a perfect mix of physical rejuvenation and mental relaxation. From the healing waters of Budapest to the serene landscapes of Tuscany and the Swiss Alps, there’s a European destination to help you recharge, reset, and return home feeling revitalized.

Note: The photographs in this article are courtesy of wikipedia.org and have been borrowed under the creative commons license. Each photograph has been linked to its host page on wikipedia.org.

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The Best Time to Rent a Car in Iceland: You Asked, We Answered

Are you planning a trip to Iceland and wondering when the best time to rent a car is? Many travellers visiting the “land of fire and ice” have the same question, so we decided to answer it. In this blog post, we’ll explore all the factors to consider when choosing the best time to rent a car in Iceland, so you can make an informed decision.

Summer or winter?



When it comes to renting a car in Iceland, one of the biggest questions people have is whether summer or winter is the best time to do so. Generally speaking, summer is the most popular time for visiting Iceland, and as such, rental cars tend to be more expensive during that season. However, if you are looking for a unique and memorable experience, winter can also be a great time to visit Iceland.

Weekday or weekend?



When it comes to renting a car in Iceland, it is important to consider when you plan to take your vehicle out on the roads. While weekends tend to be busier and more expensive, weekdays may be quieter and less expensive. If you’re looking for a good deal, try to book a car rental during the week. You’ll avoid the crowds and potentially save some money. If you do plan on renting a car on a weekend, make sure to book early as prices can spike during this time.

What's your driving style?



When renting a car in Iceland, it's important to consider your own driving style and preferences. If you're comfortable taking on rugged roads and off-the-beaten-path routes to see sights like glaciers, then an SUV or 4WD vehicle may be the right choice for you. Alternatively, if you're looking for an easier ride and don't plan on driving off-road, then a sedan may be best.

What kind of car do you need?

The type of rental car you need in Iceland will depend on your driving style and the terrain of your planned route. If you’re planning to take the Ring Road and explore the country’s stunning landscapes, a four-wheel drive is the best option. If you’re looking for an economical option, then a regular sedan or hatchback is a great choice.

How long are you staying?

When it comes to renting a car in Iceland, one of the most important factors to consider is how long you’re staying. If you plan on staying for a short period, say a few days, then renting a car is a great way to get around and maximize your travel experience. On the other hand, if you stay for longer than a few days, it may be more cost-effective to rent a car for the entire duration of your stay.

Also, think about how you'll stay comfortable during your trip, especially when it comes to sleeping and eating. Renting a Cozy Campers campervan is a practical option, as their vehicles are specifically built for Icelandic weather and come equipped with the amenities you need for outdoor living. You can also save money by purchasing groceries and cooking your own meals, staying at campsites and taking advantage of free activities in the area. All of this becomes easier and more convenient when traveling in a campervan.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Iceland?



Renting a car in Iceland can be a great way to explore the beautiful country and see its sights. However, the prices vary greatly depending on the type of vehicle. For instance, economy cars start at around $50 per day and will get more expensive as per the make and model of the car. If you’re planning to rent an SUV or minivan, you should expect to pay up to $150 per day.

Note: The pictures used in this article are courtesy of wikipedia.org and have been borrowed under the Creative Commons license. Each photograph has been linked to its host page on wikipedia.org.

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9 European Holidays not to miss this Summer

Indian travellers seem to have always an affinity towards European destinations. This could be due to Bollywood movie scenes shot around the spectacular European destinations, could be the ability of today’s India to spend more and travel farther or it could simply be the fact that the rest of the world loves to visit Europe and Indians wish to follow their footsteps.

Do you have such affinity towards Europe? Do you have any dream European holidays on your bucket list? Or even better, are you thinking of traveling to Europe this summer with your family and friends? Well, if you are, here are 9 of the best European holiday ideas for this summer and hopefully some of these can find their way into your European holiday itinerary.

Romantic Paris



One of the world’s most visited cities, there is no better time to explore Paris than the summer months. Gorgeous weather and bright sunshine adds a jump to your step as you explore a city where art, creativity, fashion, food and wine merge into one. Whether you are walking by the banks of the river Seine as portrayed in the Bollywood movie ‘Befikre’, lost in the magical world inside the Louvre, partying at one of the many summer festivals, watching a live opera show at the opera house, feeling a sense of peace at the Notre Dame or Sacre Coeur churches, enjoying a fine dining session at one of the city’s famous restaurants or shopping for designer labels till you drop, a summer holiday in Paris offers all this and much more.

Fairy Tale South Germany



Think cuckoo clocks, mouth blown glass, the world’s first long distance automobile journey and the forest that gave the world some of its best fairy tales! South Germany’s Heidelberg, Black Forest, the Bavarian Alps, Lake Constance and Stuttgart are this and much more. Perfect for outdoor lovers, South Germany is a beautiful combination of outdoor adventure and fairy tale wonders.  And what’s even better is that the Indian heartthrob destination of Switzerland is just a short drive away.

Beaches of Spain

Spain offers a perfect combination of local culture, delicious food, vibrant nightlife, soccer lovers and pristinely beautiful beaches. If you are looking for a beach holiday in Europe, Spain will comfortably lead the way in all top lists. After all, it is difficult to beat the 200 km long white coast of Costa Blanca, the lush forests and spectacular beaches of Tenerife, the island life of Mallorca, the beach parties of Ibiza, the sea side resorts of Costa Brava, the quiet and sunny coastline of Costa del Sol, the mind blowing Canary islands and last, but not the least, the culture, nightlife and beaches of Barcelona, Spain’s 2nd largest and one of the most popular cities.

National Parks and Islands of Croatia

One of the hottest destinations in the world at the moment, Croatia, straddles the Adriatic Sea on the South and the West and the highlands and mountains in the north. This entire South East European country is steeped in rich culture, spectacular coastlines, lush green islands and some of the prettiest natural landscapes present on mother earth. Be it the heritage coastal city of Dubrovnik, the river valley of Krka National Park or the majestic Plitvice National Park, Croatia packs quite a serious punch.

Norway’s Midnight Sun



Tucked up in the upper reaches of the Northern Hemisphere, Norway is the place to witness the magical beauty of the Northern Lights. In the summer months, the aurora borealis is not much visible and hence the midnight sun is celebrated. With some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls, gorgeous fjords, mighty glaciers, absolutely beautiful cities, a high happiness quotient, some of the world’s most green energy and an unbelievably easy access to the Arctic Circle, Norway deserves a special place in a European holiday itinerary. 

Liberal Amsterdam

A hot favourite with the younger generation due to the liberal smoking laws, this Venice of the North, is certainly a sight to behold. With year round lively festivals, lovely canals that criss cross the city, bustling coffee shops, the famous Red Light district, the heritage canal ring, heritage structures in windmills and medieval wooden houses and an amazing collection of museums, Amsterdam is definitely one of the top attractions of a European holiday and hence it finds a mention here. The best way to explore Amsterdam is on a bicycle just like the locals do.

Cultural Overdose in Italy



Home to the greatest number of UNESCO World Heritage sites in the world, Italy is like most of European holiday packages rolled into one. From delicious pizzas to lip smacking gelato, from trendy fashion to India like motorcycle mania and traffic and from a beautiful language to their famous hand gestures, Italy throws so many charms at you that you will definitely fall in love with her. The canals of Venice, the beautiful island of Sicily, the might of Rome, the food of Bologna, the Renaissance city of Florence, the heritage city of Naples, the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, the rocky coastline of Amalfi, the beautiful countryside around Lake Garda and the list just goes on. Italy deserves a special holiday just on its own and do make sure that you manage to get as long a break from work as you can, as Italy is totally worth it.

Best of Eastern Europe in Prague

Once a capital of Bohemia, Czech Republic’s capital Prague, offers a magical experience to all its visitors. Untouched during the world wars, the cathedrals, church towers, bridges, cobbled paths, castle and museums make for fabulous sightseeing during the day. And during the night, this city morphs into the perfect party destination. In fact, such is its popularity that it is often referred to as the top nightlife destination in Europe. A not to miss activity in this magical city is to watch the city go by from inside a boat on the Vltava River.

Natural Wonders of Iceland



Photo Credit: Iceland Tourism

If you love unusual yet fascinating nature, Iceland will definitely appeal to you. With massive waterfalls, sizzling geo thermal springs, innumerable volcanoes, lava forests, icebergs and glaciers, this Nordic country simply oozes raw appeal. A visit to Iceland is like seeing the raw beauty of mother nature’s creations. Whether you are driving to the mighty Gulfoss waterfall, watching the sunrise at Snaefellsjokull National Park or listening to the adrenaline junkie in you by doing glacier hiking, ice climbing, ice caving, volcano climbing, kayaking, river rafting or off-roading, the natural wonders of Iceland are sure to make you tick off all the adventure activities on your bucket list.

So, which of these holiday ideas are finding their way into your European holiday itinerary? Is it one or a combination of a few? While planning your European holiday, do ensure that you cover all bases such as a good travel insurance plan, a solid forex card, a comfortable airline given that the journey will be about 7 to 10 hours long depending on where you are located in India and last, but not the least, a proper Schengen visa.

Note of advice regarding the Schengen visa: The Schengen visa is easy to get, but there is some protocol to be followed. You need to apply for your Schengen visa from the country where you intend to fly into or the country where you intend to stay the longest duration. This is pretty important to know. A lot of Indian travellers have been known to goof up here. Once you have selected your embassy, take an appointment with an approved agency like VFS with all the necessary documentation, flight tickets, hotel bookings and the all-important travel insurance for Schengen visa. If you have followed all the necessary protocol, you should get your Schengen visa on your passport soon and off you can go with your family and friends on your dream European holiday.

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5 Unique Ways to Experience Iceland

Iceland as a destination has been buzzing all through 2016 and I am pretty sure that it will continue to remain a hot destination even in the year 2017. After all, no one can stay away from the charms of the glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and overall rugged geography of this Nordic country.

Iceland is all about its rugged geography. Be it mighty big waterfalls, mind blowing volcanic and geo thermal areas, lava forests, amazing glaciers and icebergs, hot springs, steam vents, rhyolite mountain ranges or picture perfect fishing villages, you are never too far away from a WOW moment or a postcard view. Wherever you go in Iceland and whatever you decide to do, you will not be too far away from these natural wonders.



Personally, I have always been smitten by this country. Right from the time I wrote this article titled ‘Why I want to visit Iceland?’ in late 2015, I have made 3 different trips to this sensational geologically active country. All these three visits were for volunteering programs, but each one took me deep into a different part of the country. The best part of each of these trips was that it took me much closer to the Icelandic culture and the local way of life while revealing hidden sights and attractions that only the locals knew.



These 3 volunteering holidays to Iceland (all in different seasons – from summer through Christmas) allowed me to explore a lot many places in this country. Some of these places were part of my volunteering projects while some were explored either on my own or with friends from volunteering camp. And it is based on these personal experiences that I recommend you these 5 unique ways to experience Iceland on your next holiday. I hope that this helps you experience and enjoy Iceland like I did and you keep returning for more. 

1) Drive through Iceland in a 4WD



Iceland is a big country with tough terrain and limited public transportation and connectivity. To go places you either need to spend a lot of money or invest in a lot of time and which is why I I think that Iceland is best explored on a self drive holiday. If you are a decent driver and hire a good four wheel drive vehicle, not only can you explore the remote corners of this volcanic country, but you can also save a lot of time and money. If you wish to truly rough it out and stay in the wild, you can opt to camp out in the open. If not, you can always find a warm bed to spend the night. Whether you wish to see the mighty Gulfoss, the mesmerizing Blue Lagoon, experience the famous Golden circle or travel into the far away bowels of Iceland’s remote hinterland, a self drive holiday is ideal. If you want to up the ante in terms of adventure, but still wish for some local guidance, you can choose guided self-drive tours that give you a tour of the arctic region like no other.

2) Opt for a Volunteering Program



Even though Iceland is a fairly well to do country, there are a lot of places where it can do with some external help and assistance. These could be areas like volcanic research, geothermal research, work in hydroelectric projects or construction and cleaning projects in the remote stretches of the country. The reason I dig volunteering projects is because it gives me access to a totally untouched region (from a traveler’s perspective) with lots of local interaction while allowing me to contribute my skills to the betterment of humanity. It was through such volunteering camps that I found access to some stunning active volcanoes (I love volcanoes), to climb the remote glaciers in the interior regions of Central Iceland, the fjords of the East coast and to some really cool ice caves where the experts were doing some research.

3) Go on a Photography Tour



If there is one country in the world that is photogenic, it has to be Iceland. Every photo taken here seems to be fit the postcard tag. Even though more or less every photo taken here looks fabulous, I still recommend going on a photography tour as it will help you find that perfect combination of color, timing, attraction and location. For example, do you know the site where you can pitch your tent to capture the northern lights along with the dramatic lava fields and geysers. Or do you know the best time and location to capture sunrise at the Snaefellsjokull National park. Photography tours in Iceland give you that perfect local guidance to see and experience Iceland like never before. And the best part of these photography tours is that you don’t need to be a photographer!

4) A White Holiday



Most people visiting Iceland seem to prefer the summer months, but I think Iceland is a magical winter destination. In fact, it offers a white holiday like no other. From experiencing the northern lights in Reykjavik to losing yourself in the deep sapphire blue ice caves underneath the 1000 year old Vatnajohull glacier and from a thrilling snowmobile ride in the remote and wild Landmannalaugar islands to the seeing the beauty of the lava caves in the Snaefellsnes peninsula, there is no better time to experience Icelandic nature than the cold winter months. A winter holiday in Iceland would need some special preparations and hence it is very much advised to go through a reliable iceland travel guide to gather all the local tips and guidance. After all, you can’t leave everything to your super jeep with mammoth tires!

5) Up the Adventure Ante



In all my trips to Iceland, I have learnt that there is no place in the world that offers a much wider and richer spectrum when it comes to true adventure. After all what can beat glacier hiking, ice climbing, ice caving, climbing into volcanoes or climbing down lava caves for a sensational adrenaline rush. Add to it, kayaking and river-rafting, snowmobiling, skiing, snorkeling with whales, off-roading and many more and you are truly spoilt when it comes to adventure. Hence, when you visit Iceland, don’t just go see the tourist attractions, but be prepared to taste some of its best adventure experiences.

So go on and see the raw beauty of Iceland with your own eyes and find out why it is a top trending holiday destination in 2016 and one of the top unlikely holiday destinations in Europe.

Note: The photographs in this article are courtesy of Iceland Tourism.

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