The nation is not only its impeccable landscapes and the sensational artists Bjork and Sigur Ros, but Iceland boasts now a masterful control over the pandemic that is COVID-19.
Although there was a spike in February, the government of Iceland has since acted in a very proactive demeanor, with strict border control and restrictions beyond measures. The record currently stands at 2,000 cases of infections and total of 10 deaths, one of the lowest in all of the globe. This particular institutionalization of what was once a financially inept and corrupt government has led the citizens of this island nation to adhere to the advice of scientists and policemen, thereby creating a vigor that is being sorely sought in other nations. The citizens now voluntarily agreed to installing apps that would trace their movements in order for specific targeting and tracing of infections. This, indeed, is a revelation to behold when other states are struggling to masks on their people.
The status quo of Iceland, therefore, is something other nations dream of – an almost normal state, business as usual tactic.
The swimming pools, all sorts of spectator sports and ordinary diners with after parties are all continuing to exist here in the isles, something not even remotely possible in the sane terms of other states. People even do not wear masks as there is deemed almost zero possibility of contracting the diseases where there has been no novel cases of infections spotted.
Except for the 11pm automation curfew inflicted upon restaurants, Iceland is in something that other nations only dream of as their most recent and yet sought-for past.
The biggest economic casualty of the coronavirus has been tourism. Last year, almost 2 million tourists visited and that number has now been reduced to a trickle, but the locals have responded by indulging in staycations. Social media feeds are full of spectacular pictures from friends traveling around the island, and hotels and camping sites around the country are full to capacity.
The government is also encouraging this trend by providing every resident with a 10,000 IKR ($74) voucher to spend in restaurants, hotels and attractions.
There is still a healthy amount of fear and nobody is complacent — many are worried that people are being too relaxed and that it can only lead to another spike — especially with the border restrictions easing and more tourists coming in.
It’s a sign that people here aren’t taking their privileged position for granted but also their desire to maintain their way of life.
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