Welcome to Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland
Ittoqqortoormiit is the Greenlandic name for this largest East Greenlandic village of 550 inhabitants. 140 students attend the local school through 11th grade. Those that can, finish their last year of school in Denmark. Almost everyone speaks an Eastern Greenlandic, a distinct dialect of the greater Greenlandic language. Their Danish is fluent, and many speak English well. Students are taught English in upper school grades. Some people are of Danish origin and the local hospital and police force (1 police officer) have employed Danish professionals.
These puppies often beg for some attention, and, of course, a treat.
There is little economy here. Many families rely on the hunters in their family to return from the hunt with enough meat for their needs and some to sell. The man below hopes to fund his next hunting trips with the sale of this polar bear skin and skull. He shot this male, and a narwhal on a June 1 day trip.
Skinned with care, this adult male polar bear was shot June 1.
A grocery store, minimart, hardware store, bank, post office and travel agency, along with two guesthouses are the main sources of income that I have been told of. Some are crafters, creating and selling hand carved knives, seal skin clothing accessories and glass beadwork. Families are given a government subsidy by the Greenlandic home rule government, as a protectorate of Denmark. This allows the local people to survive.
Life moves slowly here, for without roads, there is very little travel in or out. In the summer, under the best conditions, people may take a holiday to neighboring areas by boat. But do not make any plans that cannot be altered, for the sea ice may quickly change whatever seagoing ventures you were hoping for.
It was difficult for the English couple to reach the bay, but was relieved to find it ice free once here.
Two days later, conditions changed, and there would be no leaving Ittoqqortoormiit
For those who have money, the means to enter and leave is by helicopter to and from the airport. So people walk, visit family, and if you are a child, play.
This new playground, not even finished, it the delight of the under 10 set.
More on that dreaded word, school, later.
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