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The Adventure Continues ….Reykjavik

We enjoyed two wonderful days exploring the capital of Iceland. The city is extremely clean and compact. The highest structure is the bell tower at Hallgrímskirkja, the striking Lutheran church that anchors the skyline.

Reykjavik is a very friendly residential and tourist city. There are numerous outdoor swimming facilities open year-round, heated by naturally occurring hot water springs. The city sources heat for ground-source energy production as well as providing free hot water heat for every home.

We did the tourist thing and explored the city with the unglamorous but convenient Hop On–Hop Off bus service. With the exception of expensive jewelry and boutique shops on the cruise ship, we found few souvenirs and gifts to purchase in our ports visited in Iceland and Greenland. Our short two days in Reykjavik, however, provided an abundance of shopping opportunities. Starting our days near the church, we strolled the fantastic Rainbow Road shopping and cafe district.

Our journeys led us to the Lava Show. I was reluctant to enter, fearing a total tourist trap. The experience delivered! They reclaim lava from eruptions and, using an enormous blast furnace, reheat it to a liquid state that permits the audience to witness — and feel, from a safe distance — the radiant heat. The lava enters a fire-retardant trough a brilliant yellow, and as it flows it cools and solidifies into black. It was educational and entertaining.

Our encounter with Iceland and its capital was very special. We found it enchanting, steeped in ancient legends like the shy hidden people (huldufólk) who are said to come out only at night.

The Yule Cat (Jólakötturinn) — a giant, glowing-eyed beast of Icelandic Christmas folklore.

The weather plays a part in everybody’s visit. It’s often said that it can be sunny and warm, and in 30 minutes the cold winds pick up, accompanied by rain. Visitors should not be put off by the weather — just dress accordingly, as it will change.

On our flight home the next morning the plane passed over Greenlands Ice Cap.