Revenue from Iceland’s tourism industry totaled close to ISK 275 billion (USD 2.4 billion, EUR 1.7 billion) in 2013, making it the country’s largest export product for the first time.

Inspired by Iceland is looking for the world’s most intrepid tourist to go on the ultimate Secret Tour of Iceland.

Keflavik International Airport had another record year in 2013 with 2,751,743 passengers, a 15.6 percent increase from 2012. December was the largest Christmas month to date with 30.1 percent more passengers than last year. The airport has seen a 70 percent increase in passenger traffic in 4 years. A further 18.5 percent increase is expected in 2014.

The majority of shops and services in Reykjavik and other major cities extend their opening hours in the run up to Christams until December 23rd, most staying open until 10pm.

Christmas traditions in Iceland are closely linked to the 13 Yule Lads. Their home is believed to be at Mývatn in North Iceland, where numerous events take place the weeks before Christmas.

Nights spent in hotel rooms in Iceland during the first nine months of the year increased by 14 percent this year. The total number of guest nights totaled 1,644,808 for the period, according to the latest data from Statistics Iceland.

Out of 162 countries, Iceland is the most peaceful country in the world. This is according to a new survey by the Global Peace Index.

Seventy-three thousand foreign tourists left the country via Keflavík International Airport in the month of September. This is 8,500 more people than the same month last year, an increase of 13 percent.

From October 2012– July 2013, The Boston Consulting Group conducted an independent report on the long-term tourism strategy of Destination Iceland.

Iceland has a lot to offer for those who choose to use a bike to discover the land of fire and ice. This summer a unique map was released where travellers can in one place find practical information, a list of bicycle related services and public transportation.