Reykjavik

Iceland's largest city, in addition to being the world's northern most capital, Reykjavik is an especially interesting place to visit during the winter. With the sun only skimming the horizon for a few hours each day, it is the cities' Christmas lights and mother natures' northern lights that are left the task of illuminating the city. Nestled along the southwest coast of the island it receives surprisingly mild winters with little to no snow.

In the heart of this slow paced city you will find the locals partaking in the daily routine of feeding the ducks and geese in the frozen pond among other lackadaisical winter tasks. Although quaint, the cities charm comes from its vibrant buildings surrounded by the calm frigid ocean and snow capped mountains. To take in its full extent one must take the elevator to the top of the Hallgrimskirkja church and the highest point in the city.

Easily fooled by its small size, party goers from all over Europe make weekend escapes to Reykjavik's bumping night life. At one time Iceland outlawed liquor and it seems that Icelanders are trying to make up for lost time every weekend. Live local bands play at most bars and the parties don't stop until the sun comes up, which in winter time is not until around noon the following day. Be sure to pick up your duty free liquors for pre-gamming however, or your holiday savings can quickly disappear in this Christmas wonderland!