Iceland Summer 2013

The summer before my junior year, I had the opportunity to travel to Iceland with National Geographic Student Expeditions.  Over the course of two weeks, I was able to hike up a glacier, learn about Iceland’s history, study climate and geology all over the country, have spectacular, life-changing experiences, and meet wonderful people.  Throughout this incredible experience, my group and I circled the entire country on a large tour bus, and because of the long bus rides and many snack and gas stops, I became curious about transportation and decided to focus my research on the opinion of public and private transportation in Iceland. 

After interviewing many people, it became clear that there are differeing opinions between tourists and locals on transportation.  Everyone wants what is best for the environment, but they also want what is convenient for them.  Tourists wish there were more trains and buses so they could explore Iceland, while locals want to keep private transportation because of the economic investment they have already made in their cars.

To read the full paper, click here.