5 Reasons to Visit Greenland

Guest Post from Agness + Cez from Etramping

Have you ever considered taking a quick trip down to Greenland? We certainly have! At etramping.com we love to travel EVERYWHERE and this island is inspiring thousands of visitors each year. Its landscape looks like a fantasy film set and its crisp air is high quality. Travellers from all over the world are attracted to the cute colourful houses and insightful trips to see the Inuit culture. Despite having ‘green’ attached to its name, 80% of the island is snowy white. A common misconception made by many.

Covered in astonishing glaciers and gigantic icebergs, global warming hasn’t evaporated its natural beauty just yet. So, if you’re someone who loves the cold and fancies a change of scene, then Greenland may be your best bet! Here are 5 key reasons as to why you should visit the fascinating island…

Astounding Air

Sick to death of city pollution? Feel cramped in tight spaces and small streets? There’s no trouble of that in Greenland. As soon as you hit the shore, the pure air will flow straight through your lungs. Take a deep breath and enjoy the free air! Visitors every year comment upon the fresh quality of the island’s air source. They find it to be incredibly refreshing and an ideal detox for the lungs.

So, why is Greenland’s air so pure? Well, its geographical position gives it a great advantage. It’s situated in the high north and brings in low levels of air moisture. In a world where factory fumes are constantly rising, it may be wise to take a break. Fresh air creates a fresh mind. It helps to rejuvenate the soul and helps you focus on your innermost desires. Often we get so caught up in hectic lifestyles, we forget to take a moment for ourselves to just breathe. That’s why this island is an idyllic escape for people who need time to reconnect with nature.

Dog Sledding Traditions

This is one for all you dog lovers out there! If you fancy viewing the sights by sleigh then this activity is the answer. Packs of huskies are patiently waiting to race into the wilderness with you. Dog sledding is actually one of Greenland’s main traditions. As it is tricky to travel by car around the island, a lot of the habitants depend on dogs to transport them around. They also use the sleighs to help with their businesses. The pack will carry products from one point to another, assisting their owner’s welfare. Dog sleighs are also used for tourism. You have to remember that the island itself isn’t packed with economic opportunities so they need all the income they can get to keep going.

According to an article by Science Nordic, Greenland’s dog population is decreasing. Unfortunately, it’s not just reducing by a small amount, it’s rapidly changing. In the past 20 years the sled dogs are losing their sleigh culture by around 50%. Professors and the general public are searching for ways to boost the sled dog trade again. They believe that a lot of the local fishermen and traditional hunters are under major pressure to keep with the trends. Of course, the dogs will remain a key part to the Inuit culture. Yet, tourism always helps to keep their canine transportation links working.

Glaciers of Greenland

You know you’ve got it good when you’re facing the astounding glaciers of Greenland. Right in front of you are sights that so many people haven’t witnessed yet or may never witness! Their sheer statuesque form will widen your eyes and make you feel very small.  These moving masses of ice slowly glide across the island and make up for most of its scenery.

What’s great about discovering the gargantuan glaciers is that you can actually sail past them. Many Greenland cruises will whisk you across their waters. If you do opt for a cruise, then you’re in for a treat. To view the island by sea is simply magical. You’ll feel like a famous explorer, transported to a far away land. Plus, it saves all that hassle of hiking about. This way you get to see the sights in your own time and do not need to rush around. Take it easy and float along the Arctic ocean…

Inspired by Inuit 

Who are the Inuit? The National Geographic Magazine states that they’re the aboriginal people of Arctic Canada. Due to their traditional way of life, they’re often viewed as ‘Eskimos’ and ‘the real people of Greenland’. In this digital age, it’s rare to see such tribes thrive and maintain their way of life. That’s why so many people flock to the shores of the island, so that they can see for themselves how the Inuit live. This tribe is a connection to the land’s history. You can speak with the Inuit and they will inform you about their ancestors lives and how their methods of hunting.

You may feel inspired by the Inuit tribe. How they maintain close bonds and do not seem overly affected by the latest gadgets or keeping up with the times. Sometimes, it’s worth witnessing a culture who do not feel the need to constantly check a mobile phone. It makes you think and places everything into perspective. How true communication lies in the facial expressions of others or in a kind-hearted Greenlandic gesture. Not everything has to be so complicated. Therefore, this trip may bring you a feel of peace and the necessary time to reflect upon life back home.

Less Green, More Ice

Guess what? Greenland isn’t just green. In fact, it’s full of ice! With unique icebergs floating around everywhere, it’s quite like winter wonderland. Of course, keep an eye out for climate change. Once you’ve seen these natural elements in person, you’ll begin to question the true effects of global warming.

The island is very proud of its culture, especially the Inuit. They wish to preserve their habitat and try to engage travelers with informative talks of the change in climate. We must be aware that there are still hundreds of tribes out there who survive on the natural earth’s offerings. They need the ice to and snow so that they can prosper and keep traditions alive. Greenland won’t just be a trip to see natural wonders such as glaciers and icebergs. It will open your eyes and mind up to what else is out there. It’s such an amazing place and it will leave you with a fresh outlook on how life could be…

Why would you like to visit Greenland?

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