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Reykjavik
Reykjavik
"The Smokeless City", is the most northerly capital in the World. The
first sight of Reykjavik comes when approached from the international
airport at Keflavik. Suddenly in the distance, across the bay, the multi-coloured
roofs of Reykjavik can be seen. Corrugated iron is still the favourite
roofing material in the town and residents paint them a host of colours
which adds to the capitals charm. Reykjavik is a modern capital with skyscrapers,
international standard hotels and restaurants, but it also has a remarkable
old World charm and there are many old buildings which add to this character.
It is a city full of contrast, from the bustling harbour and fishing port
with its evocative smells and excellent fish restaurants, to the bustle
of the modern shopping centre a short walk away. There are many lovely
old buildings to see in Reykjavik including the Parliament house, built
in 1881, and the old Government building, which dates from the mid-eighteenth
century. Both are in the old centre of Reykjavik between the harbour and
the lake. Other sights worth seeing are the University, National Museum
and the Nordic house, which was designed by the World famous Finnish architect
Alvar Aalto. There are many churches, including the old cathedral near
the Parliament house, and the towering new Hallgrimskirkja, the cities
most recently built church. There are over 80 fine restaurants in Reykjavik
serving many of the countries speciality dishes. Some of the best fish
in the World can be tries at the restaurants around the harbour. Reykjavik
has a fairly active night life. The surprising variety of pubs offer a
great night out and most serve meals as well as beer and booze. There
are also several discos, which open until 3am on Friday and Saturday nights.
Other nights the discos will close at 1am.
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