I would love to experience the white nights this year and debate between going to Iceland or Saint Petersburg. Both have pros and cons and I am having trouble deciding; does any one have any advice?
white nights: Iceland or St Petersburg?
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Hi M,
My own bias is toward Iceland (more convenient, nicer people), but SP has much to recommend it.
I have never experienced the White Nights in Iceland, but I would guess that during the day, you would enjoy Piter, too- so many museums and palaces to see...
Just be back from Russia and saw the world-famous White Nights in St. Petersburg in July. It lasts only for a short period a few days each side of the summer solstice, there’s no darkness between sunrise and sunset. This Summer's White Nights:
http://www.travelvibez.com/story.php?title=Summer-Is-Splendid-on-White-Sea
When in July were you there? I thought the longest day was 21 June?
I don´t know but I would go further north where the sun really doesn´t go below the horizon for over two months.
The longest day IS 21st June.
I've been to and love both Iceland and St. Petersburg, so I won't be much help! The difference, really, comes down to your preferences: Iceland is a more scenery/nature/activity oriented trip, with a bit of interesting shopping, whilst St. Petersburg has history galore, incredible art and architecture, and its own urban beauty.
Happy trails!
The Blue Lagoon is a sight, and I must recommend Iceland over Russia. I lived in Keflavik for 2.5 yrs, and a short visit is a perfect dose. I suggest the famous Golden Circle tour, but remember that it rains a lot, particularly in Keflavik as opposed to Reykjavik. What a difference 40 miles inland makes. In my opinion, you only need a week to see the country. 1 day in Kef, 2 days to do the Golden Circle (you can get a hotel out of Reyk to see how the "locals" live) and 4 days to see Reyk. Russia's entry procedure can be a true hassle...
"Russia's entry procedure can be a true hassle..."
Not in my experience.
White Nights extends into early July.
You can learn more about the visa requirements and info at this site, but it is not state sponsored.
http://www.russiavisa.com/
Your best bet would be contacting your local embassy.
I still vote Iceland. But no matter which you choose, you will have a great time.
I live in St. Petersburg and I visited Iceland a few times.
Amy is absolutely right - "Iceland is a more scenery/nature/activity oriented trip, with a bit of interesting shopping, whilst St. Petersburg has history galore, incredible art and architecture, and its own urban beauty."
These places are so different that it's really up to you which you would prefer.