Iceland, Island nation in Northern Europe
This territory is an island nation in the North Atlantic between Greenland and Scandinavia, where volcanic activity and glaciers shape the land. The surface shows lava fields, hot springs, waterfalls, and wide uninhabited areas, while most people live along the coast.
Norwegian and Celtic settlers founded the first permanent communities starting in 874, when chieftains arrived with their followers. The Althing was created in 930 as an assembly of all free men and still meets as a parliament today after centuries under foreign rule.
Public swimming pools appear in nearly every settlement and serve as gathering spots where locals meet throughout the year regardless of weather. Showering without a swimsuit before entering the water is expected and reflects shared responsibility for cleanliness.
The main road runs as a ring around the entire coast and connects inhabited places, while the highland interior remains accessible only in summer. Fuel stations and lodging often sit far apart, so planning stages in advance proves helpful.
Geothermal energy heats nearly all homes and allows outdoor bathing even in winter, when snow covers the pool edges. There are no standing armed forces, only a coast guard responsible for sea rescue and monitoring.
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