This Icelandic narrative begins under palm trees at a fortress overlooking the Indian Ocean: It was here in the 17th century that the Icelander Jón Ólafsson found himself, later writing down his memories of the East in vivid colors. Drawing from this early testimony of Icelandic exploration, Karl Wetzig traces the history of the island at the Arctic Circle; he draws from the famous Icelandic sagas as well as from the rich experiences of his personal years in Iceland. He tells of the peculiarities of the language, the pub culture of Reykjavik, hikes over rugged lava fields, and New Year's baths in snowy river landscapes. Wetzig's perspective on the land and its harsh nature is marked by great love and expertise, and those who travel the island following in his footsteps will do so with open eyes - and sometimes off the beaten path.