Travel: Iceland

We can debate when the right time to go to Iceland is. Do it in the winter when there are only four hours or less of daylight, strong winds, snow, and rain. Or visit in the summer when there are over twenty hours of sunlight, warmer temperatures, and lots of tourists. Kathy and I went in December. It was definitely not for the cold weather but to see the aurora borealis (unfortunately the conditions weren't right at that time). It was still an incredible trip. Food is mostly based around seafood and we had some amazing meals. There are very high culinary standards along with high prices, since everything is imported (except the fish). Our advice is to hire a private guide so you maximize your time there while being in control of your agenda, and plan to spend your time outdoors. The highlight of our trip was going up a road to a Glacier that very few people visit. We got stuck in the snow at the summit and had to get creative and use the Jeep as a sled to get us down the mountain!

If you haven’t been to Iceland, add it to your bucket list. The Nordic island nation is defined by its dramatic landscape with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs and lava fields. Massive glaciers are protected in Vatnajökull and Snæfellsjökull national parks. Most of the population lives in the capital, Reykjavik, which runs on geothermal power and is home to the National and Saga museums, tracing Iceland’s Viking history. Iceland's rivers are perfect for rafting, fishing, diving and snorkeling; its mountains, volcanoes and glaciers are good for hiking, climbing, dog-sledding, and snowmobiling; its snowy hills for skiing and snowboarding; its waves for surfing; its caves for exploring; and its barren highlands for jeep safaris. Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime rate is extremely low and medical care is excellent.