Iceland may be a small country, but it has been exceptional in terms of the number of books written, and lately, the movies produced. Although each filmaker imposes an artistic filter over their work (and you shouldn't judge a country by the first film you see), films do give a valuable look into a country like Iceland. Here are some films I have seen:

• Cold Fever
  
• Noi the Albino
  
• Seagull's Laughter
  
• 101 Reykjavik
  
• The Raven's Flight
  
• The Atom Station
  

Videos of Iceland. If you are thinking about visiting, you might want to buy and/or rent videos to get a preview or identify sites you really want to see.

National Geographic had an excellent adventure-oriented video on Iceland, that involved kayaking and hiking a stretch of the country. Other travel videos are out there ... any one have recommendations? If so, leave a comment.

I also have a page on Icelandic Films or movies I liked. If you aren't bothered by subtitles, this is one good way to get a feel for the country, the people and the culture of Iceland.

The number one thing to do if you want a cheap flight to Iceland is plan ahead. Tickets usually jump sharply for the peak summer season. The cut-off moves from year to year, but travelling in late May or early June can mean a savings of 50% or more. In previous years, we have seen tickets at $500 to $600, which jump to $900 to $1200 in July and August. Those prices may not be seen again due to high fuel prices, but the same pattern of sharp increases will repeat.

The second thing to do is Shop Around. Would you work an hour or two to save hundreds of dollars? You are already attached to the internet, Now is a good time to do some research!

Hotels in Akureyri, Iceland

• Hotel KEA
• Hotel Nordurland
• Hotel Harpa
• Hotel Ibudir
• Hotel Reynihlid
• Hotel Tindastoll
• Country Hotel (Sveinbjarnargerði)