Lush with volcanoes, natural hot springs, geysers and breathtaking waterfalls, Iceland is not only capturing people’s imaginations but a spot on their bucket list.
With a flight under six hours from JFK airport and packages to Iceland (including air, hotel, and even a few meals) coming in under $900, people making the jump to this unique, self-sustaining country and discovering a wonder-filled vacation.
Leif and I recently returned from Iceland and we’d like to go back. Here are a few quick tips for your visit:
1. The Blue Lagoon, the largest geothermal hot spring in the world, is 15 minutes from the airport. This fabulous place—complete with saunas, steam rooms, and optional spa treatments—rents swimsuits, towels and robes. So if you forget anything at home or back in the hotel, they’re ready for you. Most people are content with two hours in The Blue Lagoon. Leif and I stayed nearly six hours, we loved it so much.
2. Icelandic food is heavy but great for people love seafood. The tiny lobsters (aka shrimp sized) are sweet and tender. Dried fish, fried fish, steamed fish, grilled fish, and more fish that you can identify abound. But don’t miss the great Asian, French, and Italian restaurants around town. Restaurants are available for every budget—from the burger-minded to the steak and lobster connoisseurs.
3. The weather in Iceland is a lot like southeast Alaska. That means it rains a lot. If you have a rental car, get up early and drive toward whatever direction the sun is shining. Allow good weather to influence your schedule. Save the Blue Lagoon for a rainy day.
4. Tourist maps don’t show one way streets. Have fun with that.
5. Icelandic burger sauce is ketchup, mayonnaise and spices. Ask for it on the side the first time.
6. The local currency (krona) is weakening against the dollar, so travelling to Iceland is less expensive than it’s been in years.
7. The Scandinavian clothing in Iceland is gorgeous. If you’re looking for a fabulous sweater or wrap, you’ll find something spectacular and unique.
8. Exchanging currency may not be necessary, but make sure your credit card has a pin number so it’s easier to buy gas. Everywhere we visited around Reykjavik took Visa—even for small purchases. The two places where cash could have come in handy was change for street parking (there’s free parking in the center of town at the church) and for using fee-based restrooms (but most cafes and restaurants have restrooms open to the public). With the crash of Iceland’s currency, everyone seems more than happy to take your credit card.
9. For affordable eats, check out Noodle Station in Reykjavik. Think Soup Nazi from Seinfeld. Only three selections on the menu—chicken, beef, or vegetarian soup. If you’re a fan Vietnamese pho, this has a slightly different flavor, but it’s tasty and warm on a rainy day.
10. Skip buying bottled water. Iceland water is delicious.
What other recommendations would you add for someone travelling to Iceland?
*Photo courtesy of here
