Iceland became independent in 1918 and founded the Republic of Iceland in 1944. Relying on subsistence agriculture and fishing, the country was among one of the poorest in Europe.

60% of the Icelandic population lives in Reykjavík. This is the capital of Iceland

There are five species of freshwater fish in Iceland. Three of these belong to the salmon family (Salmonidae); the Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.), the Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus L.) and the brown trout (Salmo trutta L.).

Iceland has many geysers. The English word geyser is derived from Iceland’s famous Geysir. Today Geysir doesn’t erupt often, but nearby Strokkur erupts every eight to ten minutes.

Iceland is the most eco-friendly country in the world in terms of their energy sources. Thirty percent of their electricity is of geothermal origin (the world’s highest percentage) and the rest is generated by hydro power.

The Reykjanes lava fields are a geothermal wonder and a beautiful place where lighthouses outnumber villages. About 30 percent of Iceland is lava fields. The famous Blue Lagoon are found here.

After reading all of these facts, you still have questions and want to hear from a former study abroad student what they experienced in Belgium? Check out this page with students reviews!