Greenland: Arctic Paradise Beckons with Adventure, Culture, and Climate Concerns

• Greenland, the world's largest island, is gaining global attention due to US interest and the accelerating impact of climate change on its massive ice sheet.
• Despite being closer to North America, Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, handling internal matters while Denmark manages defense and foreign policy.
• Nuuk, the capital, is home to a third of the 56,000 population; there are no roads linking towns, with travel relying on small aircraft, helicopters, boats, and ferries.
• Tourism is growing with new airports and direct flights, but the government aims to avoid mass tourism, focusing on local ownership and protecting fragile ecosystems.
• Greenland offers unique experiences like the Ilulissat Icefjord, Arctic Circle Trail, Northern Lights, and traditional Inuit culture, though it is an expensive destination.

Why It Matters: Greenland offers unique Arctic adventures and cultural insights, but faces challenges from climate change and balancing tourism.