West Fjords – Located in a famous peninsula, the Fjords are breathtaking. You need to plan well and leave time to explore all this area has to offer. They have great attractions. You can visit a myriad of unique sites, such as the Icelandic Sea Monster Museum or the famous Látrabjarg cliff. There is much to experience in this mountainous, remote area. You will have options that will keep you interested while on your expedition.
West Fjord
This is a relatively new site that you can visit located in the Highlands of Iceland. You will need a 4WD to reach the landscape, and be sure you get a high-quality vehicle that is equipped to travel on the unique terrain. Holuhraun is the newest formed lava flow from a volcano that lasted from August 2014 through February 2015. When peering into the rifts of the lava, you see many beautifully vivid colors. While driving along the sand, you can still see steam in certain areas. It is a geological wonder to behold. Be careful and stay on the marked paths, and to wear gloves when handling any lava rocks.
Because it's located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, Iceland is an incredibly active country geologically. There are more than 125 volcanic mountains in the country, a handful of which are still very active, and another handful that could easily awaken and become active as the country changes and grows. Iceland experiences a volcanic eruption roughly once every 4 years, though the past few years have seen one eruption or more each year. Because of this constant activity, a good portion of Iceland is covered in lava fields.
Holuhraun today
Silfra is an amazing diving spot located in Thingvellir National Park. It is the crevice between the tectonic plates in North America and Eurasian continents. It is the only place in the world where you can dive between two tectonic plates that shift roughly 2 cm every year. The shifting of the earth creates new caverns and tunnels. There is plenty of wildlife to see on your dive/snorkel. The three main dive sites are; Silfra Hall, Silfra Cathedral, and Silfra Lagoon. The maximum depth is about 207 feet. The water is the purest in the world, and you can feel free to take a sip while diving.
Silfra
Skogafoss - The perfect place for you to get a shot with a double rainbow, Skogafoss, is the most scenic fall in Iceland. With a drop of over 60 meters, the view is spectacular. There is also a legend of gold that lies within the falls. Take your chance and search if you dare…
Other Waterfalls:
Seljalandsfoss is a waterfall in Iceland. Seljalandsfoss is located in the South Region in Iceland right by Route 1 and the road that leads to Þórsmörk Road 249. The waterfall drops 60 m (197 ft) and is part of the Seljalands River that has its origin in the volcano glacier Eyjafjallajökull. Visitors can walk behind the falls into a small cave.
Fun fact: Seljalandsfoss was a waypoint during the first leg of The Amazing Race season 6.
Skogafoss
Skogafoss
Seljalandsfoss
Seljavallalaug is a protected 25-metre outdoor pool in southern Iceland. The pool is one of the oldest swimming pools in Iceland and was built in 1923. You will surely have a memorable experience when visiting this natural pool. The water is not that hot because it does mix with colder water.
Iceland's geothermal activity means that there are tons of natural hot pools all over the country. Some are marketed as tourist destinations (like the Mývatn Nature Baths or the Secret Lagoon in Fludir), while others are truly natural and usually just stumbled upon or found by people in-the-know. There's also the famous Blue Lagoon, of course, but this one isn't actually a natural hot spring! It's a man-made spa and hot pool fed by runoff from a nearby geothermal plant and worth the visit.
Blue Lagoon Spa – This mineral-rich attraction is minutes from the Keflavik International airport. There are many spa options available due to the geothermic forces and many natural elements. It’s an incredible source of healing for people with psoriasis. The lagoon is human-made and renewed every two days with fresh water. The geothermal water in the Blue Lagoon is an incredible resource and people from around the world come for not only the bucket list experience but the relief they feel from these special waters. You can easily access the site via car or bus.
Blue Lagoon Spa
Whale Watching Tour – There are many tours available that allow you to see whales as well as puffins. You can engage with Naturalists and experience rare sightings that will leave you in awe. It is best to whale watch in the summer months, preferably April through September. Minke whales are the most common in Iceland. Follow the instructions carefully and be safe.
Puffins
A fisherman's hut in Reykjavík in 1835 with fish hung outside for drying. Wind-dried fish remains popular in Iceland.
Icelandic cuisine, the cuisine of Iceland, has a long history. Important parts of Icelandic cuisine are lamb, dairy, and fish, the latter due to Iceland being surrounded by ocean. The flavors of this traditional country food originate in its preservation methods; pickling in fermented whey or brine, drying, and smoking.
As astonishing as it sounds, Iceland is one of the few countries on the planet where McDonald’s restaurants do not exist! Yes, you can find KFC and even Taco Bell in Reykjavik, but forget about picking up a Big Mac or some Chicken McNuggets — you won't find them here!
Reykjavik, on the coast of Iceland, is the country's capital and largest city. It's home to the National and Saga museums, tracing Iceland’s Viking history. The striking concrete Hallgrimskirkja church and rotating Perlan glass dome offer sweeping views of the sea and nearby hills. These things are all fun to see during the day, but at night…
Reyjavik, this small town, has the best party spots in Iceland, hands down! There are multiple bars and restaurants to choose from. None of the businesses charge a cover, and the music is fantastic!
Reykjavik, Iceland
Over the next couple of days, I am going to show you and tell you about some of the top attractions Iceland has to offer its visitors.
But first, in order to visit some of these attractions, you will need some form of transportation to get around: car hire or guided tour. Car hire costs will vary depending on the type of vehicle you hire. Expect to pay $50 – $150 a day, and don’t forget to factor in the cost of the various insurance options.
Planning a countryside drive around Iceland? You’ll need just a little more time than you think. While it’s technically possible to drive around Iceland in two days due to its compact size, you really do need 6-8 days to do a great job.
Pros of Renting a Car (car hire)
You can go where you want to go (well, if weather allows).
You can choose the time schedule and change as much as you want.
You can make extra stops here and there.
It is usually cheaper.
More chances to meet locals.
Cons of Renting a Car (car hire)
You might miss out on spots you didn’t know were worth stopping at.
A guide will not be there to tell you knowledge about the locations you visit.
You might spend longer finding location and or get lost.
You might not realize the distances.
Might not be able to reach difficult locations, like Highlands.
Gas is extremely expensive in Iceland.
Safety first:
Safety is always top priority when traveling to unknown destinations. Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world to travel in, with extremely low crime rates and good medical care. The main dangers that travelers will face will usually be related to the quickly changing weather and natural hazards like slippery rocks or steep cliffs. Car accidents are also something to be aware of, especially in the winter months when driving conditions can be hazardous. Be sure to have a good travel insurance policy - we can help with that!
What to wear and pack:
Iceland is a country where the weather can change very quickly, whatever time of year you visit. Layers are going to be the answer, we’d suggest thermal base layers, then warm mid-layers like fleeces, followed by waterproof and windproof outer layers.
You’re also going to want good hiking boots or shoes, gloves and a hat. If you’re visiting any of the thermal springs, save money by bringing your own towel, and of course don’t forget your swimwear, and maybe a waterproof case for your phone so you can get the perfect selfie!
Currency:
The local currency is the Icelandic Kroner, or ISK. There are ATM’s around the country from where you can withdraw cash, just be aware that they will all charge you a fee for doing so. Most places accept international credit cards, however, it is always worth having cash on you just in case cards are not accepted.
Budget:
Iceland is far from a budget destination, and prices vary depending on the time of year you visit, with the peak summer months tending to be much more expensive than the quieter winter months.
A mid-range hotel room will generally be in the region of $80 – $150 a night, and this will often include breakfast. Food is a real budget-killer in Iceland. Even burgers from gas stations will be in the range of $10 – $15, whilst a sit-down meal at a restaurant will have prices in the range of $30 – $50 for a main course.
The good news is that many of the attractions themselves, and particularly the natural attractions like waterfalls and national parks, are free to visit.
Tipping:
Tipping is generally not expected in Iceland for service. At many restaurants, a tip is already included, so do check your bill before you add a tip.If a tip is not included, it’s not common to leave a tip, although it is not rude to leave a tip if you wish, around ten percent would be a reasonable amount to tip in Iceland. Alternatively, many people choose to round up the bill to the nearest 1,000, which is also very acceptable.
Language spoken:
While very close to Danish and Norwegian, the Icelandic language remains totally unique. Words with far too many consonants abound, and syllables seem to just blur together. Unlike other languages that have changed drastically over the centuries, Icelandic remains very close to its original roots. A Bible from the early 1500s (the first one printed in Icelandic, which can be found in a folk museum in Skógar) can still easily be read by Icelanders today.
Thinking of adding Iceland to your travel plans this year? Getting there is easier than you think. Iceland is just a 4-hour flight from the East Coast of the US, or about 3 hours from the UK. There are multiple airlines that fly there, with Iceland Air and WOW being two of the most popular (and often the most affordable).
Best time to visit Iceland. Midnight sun and warmer temperatures make summer the best season to visit Iceland. Although hikers will want to consider July and August as the best time to visit Iceland whereas February, March, September, and October are typically the best time to visit Iceland for the Northern Lights.
Stay tuned these next couple of weeks to learn and see ALL that Iceland has to offer its visitors.
Today marks the last day of my “London movies” list. So grab yourself a cup of tea and get ready to watch our last London film.
A 1998 British-American romantic drama film written and directed by Peter Howitt and starring Gwyneth Paltrow and John Hannah, while also featuring John Lynch, Jeanne Tripplehorn, and Virginia McKenna. The film alternates between two parallel universes, based on the two paths the central character's life could take depending on whether she catches a train and causing different outcomes in her life.
Only In London: The bridge featured is the Albert Bridge between Battersea and Chelsea. The late-night scene when Paltrow and Hannah walk down the street was filmed in Primrose Gardens (formerly Stanley Gardens) in Belsize Park.
I hope you have enjoyed watching these films and escaping into the London environment. If these movies got you excited about visiting London, first hand, then let’s get your trip planned! I'd love to help you plan that trip for you and the people you care most about. Reach out and contact me today.
Albert Bridge
Belsize Park
Primrose Gardens (Stanley Gardens)
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Oscar-nabbing historical drama starring Colin Firth as King George VI, who struggles with a debilitating stammer.
Only In London: Rush's Harley Street practice should look familiar–it's a Georgian townhouse 33 Portland Place, a popular location used in everything from Amy Winehouse's 'Rehab' video to some other films.
33 Portland Place
33 Portland Place
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How could I make a “London movie” list and not mention Harry Potter?!
Eight films adapted from JK Rowling's bestselling book series, with Daniel Radcliffe as the lightning-scarred boy wizard.
Only In London: Sad to say, Diagon Alley doesn't exist in our beloved capital. That doesn't stop Columbus, Yates at all from lavishing the city with adoring screen time, whether it's the Millennium Bridge getting destroyed in Half-Blood Prince or those gorgeous over-city shots in Phoenix. And, of course, there's King's Cross station…
Millennium Bridge
Kings Cross Station
inside Kings Cross Station
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A Bangladeshi woman arrives in London, leaving behind her family and friends.
Only In London: Cultural diversity is all part of London's charm, and here we get a look at the East End's Bangladeshi community, where the aftershock of 9/11 is strongly felt
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Joyous musical romp starring Julie Andrews as the titular nanny, who's hired to look after two very unhappy children.
Only In London: This is London as envisioned by Walt Disney Pictures, where everybody's smartly dressed,the townhouses are towering and gorgeous, and there's not so much as a single turd in the parks. Dare to dream, Disney…
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Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) continues his hunt for answers while dodging the CIA.
Only In London: Waterloo Station is a battlefield at the best of times. Still, it becomes a hustle-bustle setting for a fantastically tense action scene in Damon's last Bourne film, as he attempts to protect Paddy Considine's journalist.
Waterloo Station
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Sci-fi horror from Danny Boyle in which an incurable virus sweeps the UK, transforming people into ravenous zombies.
Only In London: Trust us, it's never this empty in London–not even at 4 am when the clubbers are all tucked up in bed. Which makes the sight of a deserted central London all the creepier...
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Carol Reed's classic musical in which young orphan Oliver (Mark Lester) falls in with a gang of street urchins who've been trained as pickpockets.
Only In London: The city's a smoggy place filled with danger in this movie adaptation of Dickens' novel–you believe somebody like Fagin could live here.
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