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You might think you know a lot about Vikings… but do you? Who were the Vikings? The short answer is, they were Norse seafarers who came ashore to Iceland in the 8th century. But of course, there is so much more to learn about Vikings. You can learn a lot by reading history books and Norse myths, but if you want to learn about the real soul of the Vikings, look no further than their modern descendants – 21st-century Icelanders!

The modern-day Icelandic Viking

icelandic farmer vikings

When driving around in Iceland, you can expect to meet all kinds of Vikings if you only look for them. There are modern “Viking” farmers who live off the land and offer all sorts of experiences to the curious traveler. Or the local tour guide who knows Iceland’s history and landscape like the back of her hand and can teach you how to tackle your Iceland adventure no matter what Mother Nature throws at you.

Rough and rugged with a positive attitude

An icelandic viking ship monument

Like their Viking ancestors, Icelanders have a survivor’s spirit. They are resilient and not afraid to take on a challenge. Icelanders can be rough around the edges and can come across as insensitive, but rest assured, they are far from it.  They tend to take on projects by storm but with a positive attitude. The phrase “Þetta reddast” – “it will work out” – is a common Icelandic saying, and Icelanders sincerely believe it because of course it always does, always……

Iceland is always home

vikings statues in iceland

Icelanders have a strong bond with their island through their ancient Viking roots, and no matter where they live in the world, they always call Iceland home. When the local airline touches down in Keflavik, the cabin attendant always say “Velkominn heim” (“Welcome home“) to everyone on board.

So are Icelanders Vikings?

Yes indeed! Modern Vikings who like to travel, conquer the world and spread happiness to everyone they meet (We are, after all, ranked in the top three on the World Happiness Index!). Go Vikings!

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