Iceland

Summer 2019

Everyone hears about the charm and ethereal feeling of Iceland, but it's hard to truly understand without visiting. No matter how many waterfalls or mountains you dream of in your head, seeing them in person is an entirely different experience. It's no wonder the Vikings were so protective of this beautiful place filled with unspoiled natural beauty. In the summer, the light is soft and gentle, which really brings out the intricate details of the landscape. There's so much to appreciate in Iceland, from the Icelandic horses and hot springs, to the freezing weather and geysers.

During our trip, we decided to take a drive around the Ring Road, which circles the entire country and leads to many interesting towns and sights. There are plenty of opportunities to hike under waterfalls, see volcanoes and glaciers, and relax on colorful sand beaches.

This place has a way of inspiring anyone who visits. It's like being transported to another planet, and it was hard not to feel excited about what lay ahead. I think this sense of wonder and curiosity is something that also rubs off on the local people, which might explain why almost 1 in 10 Icelanders publish a book.

One of the highlights of our trip was staying on a ranch in the middle of nowhere, where we got to interact with the free-roaming horses. The scenery was absolutely stunning, with the land stretching out as far as the eye could see. The sunsets were particularly beautiful, and it was hard not to feel a sense of awe at being in such a unique place on Earth. I found myself wondering what it must be like to live in Iceland, with its harsh winters and wonderful summers.

Be careful of the speed traps! There are many that are strategically placed around the ring road, and the tickets are not cheap.

One of my favorite destinations in Iceland was Reykjafoss Falls. It's a bit hidden off the main road, so I wrote a small guide on how to get there.