Specializing in electronic combat systems and missile systems, Jacob Boisvert of Nashua, NH, is a materials program manager with Raytheon Missile Defense Agency, where he oversees monthly strategic mission readiness missions to help inform Patriot missile contracts with seven countries. Previously, he worked in similar capacities for CAES and BAE Systems. Prior to his career as a program manager and subcontract manager in the private sector, Nashua, NH, resident Jacob Boisvert spent six years in the US Navy. During this time, he earned an MBA at Northeastern University. Previously, he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of New Hampshire. In his free time, Mr. Boisvert enjoys a wide range of hobbies, including downhill skiing, hiking throughout his home state, and traveling internationally. He particularly enjoyed exploring Iceland.
Iceland is a nature lover’s paradise and a great destination for people such as Mr. Boisvert, who enjoy hiking and spending time in the mountains. An independent island nation located northwest of mainland Europe, Iceland is home to colorful culture, quaint villages and cities, and a great foodie scene, but it’s natural beauty is the real draw. From geothermal hot springs and volcanic activity to immense waterfalls and grandiose fjords, these are some of the best attractions on the island.
Blue Lagoon
Although the Blue Lagoon is touristy (and was recently threatened by encroaching lava from a nearby volcanic eruption), it remains one of the island’s most famous landmarks. Blue Lagoon is an otherworldly hot spring filled with hot, milky blue water that steams in the brisk air and warms the body of visitors from nearby Reykjavik. The geothermal spring is full of healthy bacteria, making it a great place to nurture both the body and soul—as long as the nearby volcano allows.
Vatnajokull National Park
One of the island’s biggest natural attractions, Vatnajokull National Park is home to Skaftafell Nature Reserve, Vatnajokull Glacier (Europe’s largest), Svartifoss waterfall, and an almost endless array of other geographic wonders. While the entire island is worthy of exploration, one could be forgiven for flying into Reykjavik, driving straight to Vatnajokull National Park, and spending their entire holiday there.
Snaefellsjokull Glacier
Located on the beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Snaefellsjokull Glacier presents an incredible opportunity to explore pure nature in its rawest form. A twin-peaked glacier that rests on the peninsula’s prominent volcano, Snaefellsjokull is surrounded by rugged lava fields on one side and the striking Icelandic coast on the other three, providing incredible vistas that are difficult to match anywhere else in the world. Whether you’re doing a short day hike or properly exploring the glaciers, visitors are sure to come away awed by the power and scope of pure ice.
The Northern Lights
The Northern Lights, (or Aurora Borealis) are one of Iceland’s biggest draws. The dancing waves of green and pink light visible in the night sky are caused by solar radiation impacting the Earth’s radiation and are a bucket list experience for many people. Only visible in the far northern and southern regions—and only during the fall, winter, and spring, when the sun sets long enough for reveal their splendor—the Northern Lights can be seen all over Iceland, although visitors will require good weather and a run of strong solar activity to get a really good look at them.
