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We spent just two days on Iceland during a stopover on our flight from Nova Scotia back to Europe. Everyone who has to go that way should consider to do the same! Of course you can't see much in such a short time but it's a good opportunity to get a foretaste of this unique country full of natural wonders. So rent a car and explore the region around the capital Reykjavik. Already here you will find isolated countrysides and coastlines, lakes, waterfalls, hot springs and mighty geysers. Standing on hot volcanic ground you can see a mighty glacier in the far distance. Iceland is a mixture of fire and ice and my decision to come back for a longer stay became certain after theese two days.
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The Blue Lagoon is a unique geothermal spa where you can relax in geothermal seawater that was used before to heat spring water for central heating. This seawater comes from boreholes more than 2000 meters deep. Due to the proximity of the sea that seeps into the underground watersystem the water is saline and this, along with the presence of various minerals, makes it unsuitable for direct central heating puposes. At the outlet point of the power station the water formed a lagoon in the surrounding lava fields. At this spot it has a temperature of 70°C and the courages bather can try to get as close as possible (((-:
Beyond this point the water cools down to a comfortable bathing temperature of app. 40 - 45°C. This temperature and the natural active ingredients like salt, silica and green algae are good for your skin and help you to relax and escape the stress and strain of the long flight from Europe or North-America.
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| What's really great: |
Icelandic people believe in trolls (gnomes) and elves. Theese mysterious creatures live under the moss covered lava rocks all over the island. So take your car, go out to the lava fields around Reykjavik, stop the engine and get out to sit down where you can find a comfartable seat. Maybe you are lucky and an elf or a troll appears and you have three wishes free. If not, enjoy the sight of the rocks, covered with moss in countless shades of green and a silence enabling you to hear your blood rushing in your ears. You'll never forget this moment!
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There is only one Icelandic word used in the English language: geyser. The moment of eruption of many geysers is hard to predict, but there is a very reliable one just a few hours drive from Reykjavik: Strokkur (the churn). It spouts a 30 meter jet about once every five minutes. See the people on the picture to have a comparison. The area around Strokkur is also rich in walking paths that lead past certain steaming vents and colorful mineral-rich mud formations.
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Going to Iceland you should know that you go to one of the most expansive countries in the world. I think, Japan is a bargain in comparison to Iceland. We had an arrangement with Iceland Air in the Loftleidir Hotel. The price of the arrengement (intercontinatal flight, hotel, food, car rental) was epansive too but o. k. for Icelandic circumstances. Hotel, food, car rental without flight would almost be unaffordable - that is the only bad news of this report. I heard about a possibility of B&B or farmhouse holidays. Maybe that's cheaper but don't expect wonders.
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There was no time to visit a pup. I've been told there are many good ones in Reykjavik.
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See accomodation!
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Not far away from Strokkur is another natural wonder that stands above the rest: the mighty Gullfoss (Golden Falls). With the 35 meters double cascade Gullfoss is by far Europe's most powerful waterfall. On a sunlit day the mist clouds surrounding the hammering falls are filled with dozens of rainbows, providing a spectacle of color and motion.
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Published on Saturday December 28th, 2002
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Sat, Sep 26 2009 - 05:59 AM
 by mistybleu
Great report, it is amazing want you can do in a short space of time. Great adventure
Amanda |
Fri, Nov 12 2004 - 09:32 PM
 by magsalex
| Informative report and some nice pictures |
Thu, Jan 01 2004 - 08:13 PM
by willow
| Aside from being a great report (I'm absolutely convinced to at least stop over for a couple of days on my way back to Europe) The pictures are fantastic! I hope they are in your gallery as well. Cheers! |
Mon, Jun 09 2003 - 06:59 PM
by karmapd
| Hey! Did you know that the icelandic people also have to consult the elves before building new roads etc? They have people who professionally check if the elves agree ;) It's true! |
Mon, Apr 21 2003 - 08:05 AM
by inzaghi
| I have always wanted to visit this strangely shaped isolated island with such an enticing name (I love winter and the cold!). One wonders if February would be a nice time to go...! I never knew about the expensive bit, thanks for the important tip! |
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| Botswana |
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| Iceland |
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| Mali |
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| Tanzania, United Republic of |
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