Iceland
Iceland is about the size of Tennessee with a population of 300,000 (the bulk of whom live in Reykjavik.)   The locals are friendly, helpful, unpretentious, direct, honest, self-reliant, competent and, almost to a woman, speak excellent English; yes, I generalize.  There is a pervasive sense of trust and good will, and almost no crime. 

Iceland itself is lush in the summer, rugged and laced with glacial streams and cascades.  Almost every town is coastal and has a port and fishing industry.  Sheep, cows, horses and a great variety of birds are everywhere in the landscape.  The weather varies from minute to minute and its variability is a source of pride.  Streets are clean and all seems to be beautifully maintained and to function smoothly.  I loved being there, and I loved being there.  (Click a thumbnail image once to enlarge; click within the right or left side of the image to advance or go back - or use your right and left arrows.  Please give the thumbnails time to populate before a larger image will open; there are many - enjoy them as thumbnails while you wait.)

Stykkisholmur harbor