WHAT HAPPENS IN GREENLAND
Have you ever wondered what really happens in Greenland? Maybe you are in Africa, in Namibia, Angola, South Africa, or Kenya,or somewhere in the Congo in the jungle, in a banana plantation in Uganda, in Zanzibar under clove trees, or in Benin, thinking to make a friend in Somalia, Mogadishu, or just In a very sunny country right now, and you ever wonder what goes on in a country with temperatures below negative 4 degrees Celsius and minus 50 degrees Celsius in the winter in Greenland?
I would take 50 cups of very hot coffee in an hour,to be here.
Greenland is indeed the largest island in the world that lies between the Arctic and Atlantic Oceans, located to the east of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. Its official name in Greenlandic is "Kalaallit Nunaat," which translates to "Land of the Greenlanders." It is also sometimes referred to as "Inuit Nunaat," which means the "Land of the People."Greenlandic is the mother tongue and the official language in Greenland. Danish also holds significant importance and functions as a second language, particularly in government and education.
Additionally, English is taught as a foreign language and is becoming increasingly common, especially among the younger generation.
This linguistic diversity reflects the cultural heritage and historical ties of Greenland to both Greenlandic and Danish traditions.
The fastest route from Nairobi to Greenland is by air, with ticket prices ranging from $500 to $1,800. The journey covers a distance of approximately 19 hours and 40 minutes, making it the most efficient way to travel between these two distant locations.
So before you fly away, here are 10 facts about Greenland
1. The Largest Island, Not a Continent: Greenland proudly wears the crown as the world's largest island, but it's not a continent. Despite its immense size, it boasts a surprisingly low population density of only 56,000 people, translating to a mere 0.03 people per square kilometre.
2. Greenland's Gigantic National Park: The northeastern part of Greenland is a colossal national park, established in 1974 and expanded in 1988. This pristine wilderness serves as a sanctuary for arctic wildlife, and access requires special permission from the Greenlandic Government.
3. Ice, Ice, and More Ice: Approximately 80% of Greenland is cloaked in ice, making it home to the second-largest ice sheet globally, trailing only Antarctica. These ice sheets can reach up to a staggering 3,500 metres in thickness at certain locations.
4. Geological Marvels: Greenland is a geologist's paradise, showcasing unique rock formations and iridescent minerals found nowhere else on Earth. Some of these minerals are exceptionally valuable, making Greenland a hidden treasure trove for gemstone enthusiasts.
5. Coastal Living: Greenland's towns and settlements are primarily located on the coast, given that the interior is often buried under snow even in the summer. One exception is Kangerlussuaq, nestled about 160 kilometres inland at the end of a lengthy fjord, offering a remote and frigid setting.
6. Eric the Red's Marketing Ploy: Greenland got its name thanks to a Viking exile named Eric the Red, who cleverly named it to attract settlers. Ironically, South Greenland, where Eric settled, does indeed exhibit lush greenery during the summer months.
7. Inuit Nunaat: While we commonly refer to it as Greenland, the native Inuit name for the island is "Inuit Nunaat," which translates to "land of the people." Today, Greenlanders embrace the name "Kalaallit Nunaat," meaning "country of the Greenlanders."
8. The Resilient Greenlandic Sled Dogs: These hardy canines are still a vital mode of transportation for hunters during the harsh Greenlandic winters, showcasing the enduring partnership between humans and animals in this unforgiving environment.
9. Access via Denmark or Iceland: Surprisingly, despite its geographic proximity to North America, you can't fly directly to Greenland from there. Instead, you must first travel to Copenhagen or Reykjavik before reaching this remote Arctic destination.
10. Arctic Sunburn: Don't be fooled by the frigid temperatures; Greenland's Arctic sun can cause sunburn even during the winter. Pack sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the intense sunlight, especially when it reflects off the snow.
Explore the enigmatic beauty of Greenland, where icy landscapes, rich geological formations, and a resilient culture await your discovery. Greenland's unique charm and natural wonders make it a destination like no other, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary world of the Arctic.
