Summary
This unique travel destination presents an exceptional opportunity to engage with the local inhabitants and gain insights into their rich culture.
The Inuit culture is intriguing, and the majority of people have limited knowledge about it.
Prior to our visit to this polar region, we had only a cursory understanding, but we left with a profound respect and comprehension of those residing within the Arctic Circle.
People Living in Greenland
The western coast of Greenland, while less frequented by tourists, boasts the highest population density.
We were fortunate to visit several villages and communities, allowing us to meet the residents of Greenland.
Among them is Ilulissat, a town with a population of 4,500 and an abundance of sled dogs, situated where icebergs are born in the heart of Disko Bay.
This remarkable bay is filled with ice, and for most of the year, Ilulissat is challenging to reach by boat.
Traveling along the west coast of Greenland provided numerous opportunities to disembark and explore various towns and villages.
Sisimiut is known as a university town with several trade and high schools in the vicinity.
It is also the northernmost ice-free port in the country, thus emerging as Greenland’s fastest-growing urban center.
Local Food of Greenland
During our visit, we had the chance to sample minke whale and seal blubber.
These are two essential components of the Inuit diet, providing crucial levels of vitamin C.
Fishing constitutes a significant industry in the nation; however, the public sector is experiencing rapid expansion. In the capital city, Nuuk, we attended a lecture and debate presented by two political parties.
It was enlightening to observe how Greenland is navigating the challenges of modernization.
Palle and Naaja from the Socialist and Democratic parties have united in a coalition aimed at propelling Greenland into the 21st century.
Their primary objective is to educate the younger generation and provide them with options for life in the districts.
The districts refer to the small village communities across the country that are gradually diminishing.
Life in Greenland
As Naaja mentioned, six months of the year are dedicated to hunting in these villages. Although culturally rich, the economic reality is challenging.
While children possess the right to remain, they should also have the autonomy to decide their futures. Consequently, the government is making concerted efforts to fund universities and facilitate education abroad.
Greenland is officially governed by Denmark, which handles foreign affairs and national defense, while Greenland maintains home rule, particularly in terms of public aid.
Denmark contributes $3.2 billion annually to Greenland, a necessity due to the high cost of living.
The Cost of Living in Greenland
It is challenging to comprehend how individuals can sustain themselves with the prevailing prices, which may clarify why residents opt to stay within their districts. Unemployment rates are elevated, necessitating substantial subsidies.
In Nuuk, there exists a 32-year waitlist for an apartment. (This is not a typographical error; indeed, the wait period is 32 years).
From the moment a child is born, they are placed on the waitlist for an apartment they may or may not receive 32 years later, and annual fees must be paid to maintain their position. A missed payment results in a drop to the bottom of the list.
Purchasing a home is even more demanding and costly.
There is a scarcity of habitable space in Greenland, making land a precious commodity.
With the majority of land being rocky and, during winter, encased in ice, many districts around the country have been closed. If Greenland aspires to embrace the 21st century, sustaining these districts has become increasingly infeasible.
Closing of Settlements in Greenland
Naaja shared a narrative about one settlement that had only three inhabitants.
A father and his two sons, one of whom killed the other after a dispute.
Post-incarceration, only the father remained in the settlement, costing the Greenlandic government approximately 1 million dollars annually.
The communities in the districts are not entirely self-sufficient; while they strive to preserve traditional methods, they also utilize grants for support.
This places a significant strain on the economy, prompting the government to implement various strategies to encourage migration to the south.
Incentives include financial assistance for relocation, free education, and healthcare services.
Mining in Greenland
The mining sector is beginning to generate employment opportunities through oil exploration and the extraction of iron, diamonds, gold, rubies, and uranium.
As the polar ice caps recede, Greenland may face new prospects; however, this could come at a cost.
When asked whether the Greenlandic people wished to revert to traditional ways of living, Palle’s response did not surprise us.
She remarked that the residents of Greenland have access to the Internet and satellite television, which exposes them to improved lifestyles.
They aspire to travel and partake in experiences available to the rest of the world.
We questioned, why should they not? Why do travelers frequently suggest that communities must maintain their historical ways of life?
Disappearing Culture of Greenland
Some individuals lament the diminishing cultural landscape while returning to their modern homes, equipped with heating, air conditioning, and catching up on their recorded television shows.
While witnessing an ancient culture is remarkable, it is equally important that no one should remain deprived in the 21st century.
Itelliq, Greenland
Our expedition included a visit to Itelliq, a town with a population of 250, isolated on the West Coast.
The residents welcomed us into their homes, offering an insight into their daily lives. Upon entry, we were pleasantly surprised by the spaciousness, warmth, and comfort of their living spaces.
Equipped with a big-screen television, a fully stocked kitchen, and plenty of room, the Inuit people, who might seem distinct from our perspective, share more commonalities with us than one would assume.
We assert once more: travel dismantles stereotypes, and the more individuals we connect with, the clearer it becomes that we are all part of a shared humanity.
Commonalities abound.
We experience joy, sorrow, friendships, family ties, and an innate desire to maximize our potential in life.
Similar to other European nations, Greenlanders are passionate about football (soccer, for our North American companions) and issued a friendly challenge to the crew of The Sea Spirit.
Few activities unite nations more than sports, and few experiences foster mutual understanding better than travel.
Our journey to Greenland was an honor and a memory we shall cherish. As tourism flourishes, the dynamics of their lives are bound to transform significantly.
Politics in Greenland
Listening to the politicians speak was an inspiring experience, instilling hope that they might learn from the missteps of our nations and perhaps guide the way into the next century.
Although Greenland has substantial challenges ahead before achieving full independence, they are diligently striving to foster an economy that thrives while preserving the rich culture that makes a visit there so remarkably special and unique.
