On Icelandic:
Icelandic is a Teutonic language of the Nordic group. It is believed to have changed little from the original tongue spoken by the Norse settlers. English is widely spoken and understood. Icelandic has two letters of its own: Þ/þ pronounced like th in "thing" and Ð/ð pronounced like th in "them."
Wow, that's pretty subtle.
We're considering doing a vacation in Iceland. Looks like fun. But I guess I shouldn't bother trying to learn any of the language if I can't even tell their letters apart...
Watch yourself in a mirror when you say the two words. “Thing” is said with the tbetween the lips, “them” with it just inside. “Them” has a slightly softer sound as a result. Try saying either with your tongue positioned for the other and you’ll hear the difference.
i can feel the difference, but i’m not sure i can hear it.
The wife and I would love to holiday in Iceland but I hear it is incredibly expensive once you are there. We’ll probably wait until our daughter is older too – not sure a 3 year old would appreciate moonscapes and the aurora borealis. Sigh. Orlando it is then.
disney’s fun. and i bet flying there from the UK is a lot better than doing the 21 hour drive (non-stop) from NY state to FL. though you won’t get to stop in South Carolina for fireworks on the way back!