Iceland – the land of fire and ice
How does one sum up a short 4-day visit to Iceland? – Stórfeglegur, of course!
WOW! WUNDERBAR!! PRECIOSO!!! MAGNIFIQUE!!!! These superlatives would be a great place to start.
This island with its spectacular views, volcanic topography, friendly and somewhat quirky (in a positive way) people along with its tongue-twister language and viking heritage is a very endearing country that is most definitely worth a visit.
Reykjavik, in the Southwest, is a quaint, colourful, progressive yet laid back capital of 120,000 inhabitants. It is a city that is spread out, similar in size to Barcelona, but with a fraction of the people. Designated the capital dating back to the country’s origins, Reykjavik started as a small fishing village and gradually grew as Icelanders from other small coastal and farming communities began to settle in the area. It now enjoys the status of being the major metropolis of the island while maintaining its small town charm and ambiance. Akureyri, the second largest urban centre has a population of approx. 20,000 and is often referred to as the capital of the North. Iceland’s total population is around 330,000 spread out over the island. Fishing is still the largest industry followed in recent years by tourism.
Most first-time visitors start their Icelandic experience in Reykjavik to get a taste of what Iceland has to offer. However, there is so much more to explore on this expansive island; to really see and appreciate all it’s natural beauty you’d need a few weeks at least to cover the various regions or plan a few more stopovers which has become a popular thing to do.
Flights arrive at the airport in Keflavik, a town 45 mins away from the capital. Transfer by either Flybus or Airport Express to the capital is extremely convenient and well-organized. You can pre-book your two-way ticket on-line or buy one at the airport. If you fly Icelandair, you can reserve your bus time and pay the fare while in flight – now that’s forward thinking. Busses are timed according to the flights and usually leave 40 mins after arrival which gives you plenty of time to retrieve your luggage. The only delay you may encounter at this time is the long line at customs due to the present construction to expand and improve the arrival terminal. Other than that slight inconvenience, all else is smooth sailing. Once you are dropped off at the Main Bus Station (BSI), you transfer on to another bus that takes you to your hotel. All in all, it was a pleasant way to begin the adventure.
There is plenty to see and do in and around Reykjavik and surrounding areas. Whatever your interest, you will not be disappointed. Adventures abound for culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, thrill seekers, literature buffs and foodies alike. Rent a car, take a boat tour, hop on a bus, ride a bike or a horse, or explore by foot – whatever or however you do it, just make your experience your own. Sample the traditional cuisine (delicious fish dishes and their much talked-about hotdogs), take in a show at the modern, glass concert hall, immerse yourself in the history and culture at the many National Museums, listen to some eclectic music and enjoy the vibrant night life (many cafes turn into bars after 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights). After all, who wants to go to bed when it’s still light out and who wouldn’t want to stay up to see the midnight sun (during the summer months of course).
I challenge you to learn a few Icelandic words (good luck with the pronunciation).
Try this one on for size: Eyjafjallajökull (the volcano that erupted in 2010).
One last piece of advice, don’t forget your camera! You will want to capture those magnificent sky, land and seascapes.
They truly are magnificent (stórfeglegur)!
Until we meet again, Iceland! (þar til við hittumst aftur)
Traveller's Lingo 