So I recently got back from, what unfortunately was, the last leg of my study abroad trip. Let me tell you, it was the cherry on top of the cake. As if studying abroad and spontaneously visiting all of these amazing and individually unique European countries wasn’t enough, I just had to go see one more – just one. And that country was...ICELAND.
Iceland has to be, hands down, the most amazing country I have ever been to. Between Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, England, Ireland and Andorra, Iceland takes the cake. The people, the culture, the food, the nightlife, everything was just absolutely incredible. And you also feel like you’re on set of a "Game of Thrones" episode at all times.
Lets start off with the food. As unique is the country, is their food. I know this is going to sound disgusting, but one of their cuisines is whale. Yes, whale. The one you find in the ocean. All I could think about while chewing was Dory speaking whale in "Finding Nemo" – just a tip, that is not the best thing to think of while chewing whale (it beats that horse I had in Andorra – I know, I should start re-evaluating what I eat). But, other than the whale, the vegetables were fresh as can be, and the meat was some of the best I’ve ever had. And the best part is, most restaurants don’t import anything. All of their produce is born and raised on Icelandic turf.
The people. Probably some of the best, and most welcoming people I’ve encountered in a foreign country. They love Americans, which is rare to come across in Europe. They will go the extra mile to make sure you are having a great time in their home country, and will definitely make you feel like one of them. And a plus, EVERYONE is beautiful.
The Blue Lagoon. Wow. I can’t even put into words how incredibly breathtaking this was. Driving there, you pass sites (which are all over Iceland) where volcanoes used to be and are now covered with dry lava. I know it sounds like something straight out of a movie, because it was. My entire time there I felt like there was a camera crew following me around on a faux set. A lot of people don’t realize that the Blue Lagoon is actually a spa. So you get your robe and flip flops, and the second you step outside the cold hits you. You struggle to find a hook to hang your robe, and sprint towards the water. But the feeling you have once you step foot into the lagoon is unbelievable. There is so much more I can say about the Blue Lagoon, but I’ll save it for another time.
The nightlife and culture. The Icelandic people definitely have the best moves, and are not afraid to flaunt it. They will show you the best time you have ever had, and make it unforgettable. As you all know, Vikings live in Iceland, right? Well, you have to try the Viking Games. We had a private session where we learned the history of Iceland and the beer in Iceland, while we were also taught the history behind the Vikings. One thing – don’t mess with the Vikings.
To sum this up, Iceland is a feasible destination. People think they can’t go because it isn’t a hot spot destination where tourists flock to every year, or that it’s too far. Iceland is only five and a half hours away, and tickets are under $1,000. It's more than possible to go. So go! Thank you, Iceland, for making me feel like one of your own and showing me the most unique time and experience ever. I know for a fact that I will definitely be back.
