Travel : Greenland - Best places to visit and other details

 

Greenland, the world's largest island, offers stunning natural beauty and unique experiences. Here are some of the best places to visit:

1. **Ilulissat Icefjord:** Witness enormous icebergs breaking off from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. **Nuuk:** Greenland's capital combines modernity with traditional Inuit culture. Visit the National Museum and the Nuuk Art Museum.

3. **Qaqortoq:** Explore the charming town with its colorful houses, hot springs, and unique stone-carved sculptures scattered around the area.

4. **East Greenland:** Discover remote landscapes, breathtaking fjords, and the small settlements like Tasiilaq, providing an authentic Inuit experience.

5. **Disko Island:** Experience the vibrant town of Qeqertarsuaq and the scenic landscapes, along with the possibility of whale watching.

6. **Uummannaq:** Home to the iconic heart-shaped mountain, Uummannaq offers cultural experiences and hiking opportunities.

7. **Kangerlussuaq:** A gateway to the ice cap, this area provides a chance to explore vast expanses of wilderness, go dog sledding, or witness the Northern Lights.

8. **Greenland National Park:** This remote and untouched area is the world's largest national park, offering unparalleled Arctic landscapes.

9. **Thule Air Base:** Visit the northernmost U.S. military base and experience the unique blend of military life and Inuit culture.

Remember that Greenland's attractions are often remote, and travel can be challenging, so it's essential to plan accordingly and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Best time to visit 

The best time to visit Greenland depends on your preferences and the activities you have in mind. Here are considerations for different seasons:

1. **Summer (June to August):**

   - **Pros:** Mild temperatures, long daylight hours, and a vibrant landscape with blooming flowers.

   - **Activities:** Ideal for hiking, boat tours, wildlife watching, and exploring coastal areas. It's also a great time for cultural events.

2. **Late Spring (May):**

   - **Pros:** Warmer temperatures begin, and the landscape starts to come to life after the winter.

   - **Activities:** Similar to summer, but with fewer tourists. Spring offers a quieter and more intimate experience.

3. **Early Autumn (September to October):**

   - **Pros:** The landscape is still relatively accessible, and you may experience the Northern Lights.

   - **Activities:** Hiking, photography, and the chance to see the auroras as the nights get darker.

4. **Winter (November to April):**

   - **Pros:** Winter is the best time for experiencing the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).

   - **Activities:** Dog sledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and, of course, aurora watching. However, note that winter brings harsher conditions and limited daylight hours.

Keep in mind that Greenland's weather can be unpredictable, and conditions may vary. It's essential to plan according to your interests and desired activities, and be prepared for changing weather patterns throughout the year.

Cuisines 

Greenlandic cuisine is influenced by the local environment, with a focus on ingredients available in the Arctic region. Here are some traditional Greenlandic dishes:

1. **Kalaallit Kaagiat (Greenlandic Cake):** A popular traditional cake made with angelica and dried angelica leaves. It's often served during celebrations and special occasions.

2. **Suaasat:** Considered Greenland's national dish, Suaasat is a traditional meat soup. It typically includes ingredients like seal, whale, reindeer, or other local meats, along with onions, potatoes, and sometimes rice or barley.

3. **Mattak:** Also known as muktuk, it's a traditional Inuit delicacy made from the skin and blubber of whales, usually the narwhal or beluga. It's often eaten raw.

4. **Arctic Char:** A popular fish in Greenland, often prepared by smoking or drying. It's served in various ways, including grilled, boiled, or in soups.

5. **Seal Stew:** Seals are an essential part of Greenlandic Inuit culture, and seal meat is used in various dishes. Seal stew is a hearty and nutritious meal.

6. **Crowberry Pie:** Crowberries are small, black berries found in the Arctic region. They are used to make pies, jams, and desserts.

7. **Reindeer Meat:** Reindeer is a common meat source in Greenland, prepared in stews, roasts, or smoked. It's a lean and flavorful meat.

8. **Greenlandic Coffee:** This is a traditional coffee made with whiskey, Grand Marnier, and whipped cream. It's often served in gatherings and celebrations.

While traditional Greenlandic dishes focus on local ingredients, you may also find international cuisine, especially in urban areas like Nuuk, where diverse influences contribute to the culinary scene. Keep in mind that Greenland's isolation affects the availability of certain ingredients, and traditional hunting and fishing remain essential for many communities.

Airlines to Greenland 

Greenland is served by a few airlines, but it's important to note that flight options can be limited, and schedules may vary. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, some airlines that operate flights to Greenland include:

1. **Air Greenland:** The national airline of Greenland, Air Greenland, provides domestic and international flights. It connects Greenland to destinations like Denmark, Iceland, and Canada.

2. **Air Iceland Connect:** Offers flights from Iceland to Greenland, connecting Keflavik International Airport in Iceland to airports in Greenland, such as Nuuk and Ilulissat.

3. **Air Canada:** Provides seasonal flights to Greenland, specifically to Kangerlussuaq, from certain Canadian cities.

It's essential to check with the airlines directly or use online travel platforms for the most up-to-date information on flight schedules, routes, and availability. Keep in mind that Greenland's airports are limited, and travel to and within Greenland may involve multiple flights and layovers. Additionally, flight schedules can be influenced by weather conditions, especially during the winter months.