Arctic life
Updated: 2016-08-24 07:38
By Mike Peters(China Daily)
|
|||||||||
The Greenland National Museum showcases the indigenous culture with exhibits of colorful native clothing and other made-by-hand necessities. |
The fishing industry dominates business here, and the education system is well-respected, including vocational training for ships' officers. There is a 10-year waiting list for housing-perhaps one reason going to sea is attractive.
A former Danish colony, Denmark granted home rule to the huge island in 1979.
In 2008, Greenland voters approved the Self-Government Act, which transferred more power from Copenhagen to Nuuk, though the country remains financially dependent on Denmark. About 10 percent of the country's population is Danish-a bit higher in Nuuk, where many young Danes come after university for a year or two.
Having arrived by cruise ship, we are particularly aware of Nuuk's geography.
The world's northernmost capital-besting Rekjavyk, Iceland, by a few kilometers-Nuuk is perched on the southwestern coast of Greenland, about 10 km from the Labrador Sea and 240 km south of the Arctic Circle. Polar bears are unlikely visitors, though everybody has a story about seeing one.
For tourists, there is plenty to see.
Lonely Planet has declared Greenland to be one of the top 10 destinations for 2016, and Nuuk is a major reason: "The heart of a nation, Greenland's largest city and capital is fueled on fresh air, strong coffee and diverse personalities."
Must-sees include the mummies at the Greenland National Museum, which also offers insights into the indigenous culture with exhibits of colorful native clothing and other made-by-hand necessities, from kayaks to hunting knives and spears.
Related Stories
China to ban poorly-behaved tourists from traveling 2016-08-22 13:37
World's longest, highest glass bridge opens in Hunan 2016-08-21 09:47
Altyn Mountains nature reserve: Paradise for plants and wild animals 2016-08-17 17:16
Shanhaiguan Pass: Famous tourist resort in north China 2016-08-17 10:09
Shanhaiguan Pass: Famous tourist resort in North China 2016-08-17 10:09
Today's Top News
At least 73 dead after strong quake strikes Italy
Turkey launch operation in north Syria to fight IS
UK manufacturing export orders highest in 2 years after Brexit vote
Paris tourism lost 750 mln euros after attacks
EU leaders meet to launch post-Brexit path
France's Sarkozy to run for 2017 presidential election
Turkey vows to cleanse IS from border after attack
Show of unity: Merkel, Hollande, Renzi meet
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
Hollywood snaps up rock star's dog film |
Chinese people welcome dispossessed |
The can-do generation to the fore |
Riding the wave |
Leisure giants buoy cruise market |
She followed her heart |