Despite the negative picture painted of the country abroad, tourism to Iceland has increased by thousands this winter.
In February alone, about 20,000 tourists arrived in Iceland – 2,000 more than in this time last year. Most of these guests have arrived from the US and the UK.
Furthermore, despite the depressed currency, more Icelanders have travelled abroad this month than in the same month last year. 17,000 Icelanders went overseas in February; 1,700 more than left the same month last year. It is presumed most of those leaving will be coming back.
British and American tourists increased by 25%, 16% more from central and southern Europe, and 11% more from other countries. The yearly total so far stands at about 40,000 tourists; a 2% increase from last year.