Is Greenland really green?
In one respect, no. It reputedly got its name more than 1,000 years ago when a Viking, Erik the Red, used false advertising, hoping to entice settlers to a land almost entirely covered by an ice sheet up to 2 miles thick.
But in another respect, yes. Greenland is one of the greenest countries on Earth, obtaining around 80 percent of its energy from renewable sources and increasing self-sufficiency in food production.
Occupying the world’s largest island, Greenland is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark. Two-thirds of the island lies within the Arctic Circle, putting it on the climate change front line. If Greenland’s ice sheet melts, global sea levels will rise cata- strophically.
Greenland’s population of 57,000 mainly resides in settlements on the west coast. There are few roads, and you must travel between them by air or sea. International flights currently arrive at Kangerlussuaq (SFJ), a village of just 500 inhabitants but one of the few places in Greenland able to accommodate a long runway. From there you can
transfer to other settlements. However, expensive work is currently underway to upgrade the airport at the country’s capital, Nuuk (GOH), and after 2024 it will be able to handle large jets.
The interior — dominated by that vast ice sheet — remains wild and dangerous (unpredictable weather, crevasses, avalanches, flash floods from glacial meltwater, polar bears and all manner of other hazards). Expeditions must be planned carefully, ideally with a local guide, and require an official government permit.
But don’t be deterred. Greenland proves a wonderful adventure destination. Group tours with local operators offer the best value for the money and also help limit environmental impact. Itineraries include visits to glaciers, sea kayaking, whale watching and guided excursions onto the ice sheet. In winter you can witness the northern lights and in summer experience 24 hours of daylight.
Erik the Red presumed the only way to get people to go to Greenland was to tell them it’s something it’s not. The 21st-century reality is much more exciting. Here, amid a tamed and urbanized world, lies one last, vast expanse of genuine wilderness.
Read This Next
High Peaks Resort Review
March 2023
May 6, 2023Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 4, 2024Have an Autumn Wine Soiree The SLO Way in San Luis Obispo
Yes, it’s harvest time — and that means great fall wine festivals, including the third annual Autumn Soirée The SLO Way Nov. 9 on California’s Central Coast. The event will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Garden Courtyard at luxury boutique Hotel San Luis Obispo, recognized as a MICHELIN Guide One Key property.
Sponsored Content
Extraordinary Egypt
ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME JOURNEY INTO THE ANCIENT WORLD OF THE PHARAOHS
Daily
Nov 4, 20247 Hotel Restaurants Worth the Travel
Book a reservation at one of these hotel restaurants around the country, providing excellent dining experiences you won’t soon forget.
Slideshow
Nov 4, 20247 Reasons to Put Strasbourg, France, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Strasbourg, France, with us.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines First to Purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel for ORD
Chicago O’Hare International Airport will soon receive sustainable aviation fuel, all thanks to United Airlines, which became the first airline to purchase SAF for use at the airport, one of the largest in the United States. Neste, a producer of SAF, will provide up to 1 million gallons of its Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The first supply arrived in August.
Daily
Nov 4, 20248 Must-Have (and Must-Pack) Perfumes for 2025
Still on the search for your next favorite perfume? Whether traveling, heading out to a fancy dinner or simply spending the day at home, finding the scent that works for you and lasts for hours is essential. These are our eight perfume recommendations for 2025:
Embark on Chile’s Lakes & Volcanoes Route
Daily
Nov 1, 2024Extraordinary Egypt
Sponsored Content
United Airlines First to Purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel for ORD
Sponsored Content
Daily
Oct 31, 2024Make The Londoner Hotel Your West End Base
In London’s arts-central West End district, The Londoner Hotel is an ideal spot to unpack for an active, experience-focused stay. Part of the Edwardian Hotels luxury collection, this swish property offers 350 guestrooms and suites, along with private screening rooms, a ballroom, meeting spaces, and six concept dining and bar selections. There’s also The Retreat, where guests can immerse themselves in a wellness journey featuring a pool; sauna; hydropool; steam room; tranquil cabanas; and a curated selection of holistic body therapies, massages and facials.
Sponsored Content
Discover the Pristine Beauty of the Sporades Islands
Nestled in the northwest Aegean Sea, the Sporades Islands are a hidden gem of Greece, offering breathtaking natural beauty and unique experiences for every traveler. Comprised of four main islands — Skiathos, Skopelos, Alonissos and Skyros — this island cluster is renowned for its lush pine forests, crystal-clear waters and idyllic beaches.
Daily
Oct 31, 2024Ananda in the Himalayas Unveils New Deluxe Suites, Renovations
The Ananda in the Himalayas, a wellness retreat, recently debuted new additions to its luxury accommodations and a series of stylish renovations to its premier suites.
ShareThis