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Iceland Travel Blog with National Geographic

I am so excited to bring a new journey across the world to you!  Stay tuned.  The adventure begins shortly!
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Final Morning - Return Flight and Thoughts

7/26/2015

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I am sad to have to bring this adventure to a close.  By all means, if you ever decide to go to Iceland, GO!  I cannot tell you enough how beautiful it is, how incredible the food is, and how nice the people are.  Plus, they speak English!  That makes travel all that much easier. 

Slide Show of Developed Photos

I have been trying to share images and video with you as they happen real time.  The positive for that is that you get to experience everything in the moment with me.  The downside is that most of the images I have shown are unedited, undeveloped and untouched.  Basically, they are raw.  I want to share some slideshows of various images AFTER they have been developed using technology.

Flatey Island

Flatey Island was one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen.  It has only one road and is so peaceful.  Icelandic people come here to relax and get away during the summer months.

Puffins!

The puffins are so very cute.  Honestly, they are very hard to photograph.  I almost thought I wasn't going to get to see any.  They like to hide in their rock dwellings and then dart down really fast to the to catch some fish.  They are much faster than penguins!

Breathtaking Countrysides

Everywhere you look there is a postcard to be taken!  I took so many photographs is mountains and hills - just because I don't think I get to see them that often.  It really makes it easy to take a good picture when you have a small colorful house in the shot with a majestic landscape in the background.

Sheep and Horses

I should have told you about the sheep.  They are EVERYWHERE.  The Icelandic people release them to the mountains to eat and live during the summer. Then, during the winter, they go into the hills to feed them and keep them safe during the wintertime.  It is very trusting to let them go up and away like that.  They don't fight over who gets which lamb at the end of they day. Some are marked. Some are tagged. At they end of they day, the Icelanders live in peace.

Waterfalls and Geysers

.So, I can honestly say that I think it is hard to take good photos of waterfalls.  The geysers are very mystical and neat.  I hope you like what I have shared with you so far.  I did notice that in the beginning of my travels, I spelled geyser differently.  In Iceland, they spell it, "geysir."  So, ifyou noticed a difference, it is because I have switched back to American spelling.

A Troll Photobomb! 

I know that you are mostly interested in the trolls.  I am so lucky to be surrounded by real Icelandic people who can really give some background on them!  Everywhere you look in Reykjavic, there are reference to these creatures who spend so much time under ground.  I wanted to share with you some more that I have learned today.
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A troll jumped into Mrs. Crawford's picture last summer. Tricky thing isn't it?

Troll Kids

PictureMr. S. found this image on the internet of a baby troll. It isn't surprising that I haven't seen any because they sleep so much and stay underground.
I mentioned that trolls live a long time the other day.  But, they can live for SEVERAL hundred years!  But trolls do not have a ton of kids in their lives.  This is largely due to the fact that they spend so much time sleeping.  Trolls also take much longer to grow up.  A child that is 1 years of age is basically 10 in "troll age."  Now, they don't look like 10-year-olds. They look like babies at this point.  Troll children do not live one their own or even particularly with their family. For the first 15 years, they live in a communal group called a "creche."  What really happens is whichever adult troll is awake, is the one who has to watch the children who are not sleeping.  I guess it means that all hands are on deck! As the trolls get older, they sleep more - sometimes for even years!  A newborn/young troll will only sleep for weeks at a time.  Because the trolls spend so much time underground they don't mind it much.  They don't have a day and night like we do - they have "sleep time" and "awake time."  Trolls children are hairy; so, you might think that is a little weird.  They have dolls like you do - almost like Ken and Barbie dolls.  It wouldn't shock me if some of the little handmade dolls I have seen in the gift shops are made by them!

Don't worry!  Even though I am returning home.... I will be sharing more about trolls!  Stay tuned!

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Getting Ready to Come Home...  More Trolls! 

7/25/2015

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So, we are coming to the end of our journey very soon.  Iceland is really amazing in so many ways.  First, the people are so nice.  The fish is delicious.  The views everywhere are breathtaking.  One thing we have noticed is that the clouds here seem different.  While we know that the can't possibly be, I have never noticed so much "cloud sculpture" back home.  Lastly, there has been so much to learn about earth and science from this trip.  It is amazing that Iceland really relies heavily on magma below for heating and the waters for hydro-power.  We could learn a lot from them!

Trolls Sighting!

So, trolls are VERY real!  There isn't an Icelander who would say differently.  Icelanders are very spiritual people - they almost embrace all thoughts, religious and mystical beliefs.  One of our tour guides explained that when a person is sick, the family will (of course) go to a doctor.  However, they will also visit people who have "the gift" or magical, spiritual insight and powers.  The people of Iceland have an approach that it can't do any harm to combine the science and mystic power of nature. 
Wherever you go, you will always see these giant white cylinders in fields, along mountainsides, etc.  One of my traveling companions asked about them.  We had a different tour guide who explained that trolls really love marshmallows!  These giant treats are left for the trolls to eat.  I guess you would want to keep a troll happy!  There were light green ones as well.  When asked, we were told that they were mint flavored!  Who knew?!?
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Troll hiding in a lava fields courtesy of Mrs. Crawford. She was so lucky to get this photo!
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Giant marshmallows left on the mountainside to feed the trolls!
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More marshmallows for the trolls!

Some shopping - and a big purchase!

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People strolling on the major shopping street enjoying the day.
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The sweater that Mr. S. bought! I can't believe I bought a sweater in the middle of summer in Chicago!
I haven't talked about the Reykjavik style but it is pretty cool!  Many of the fashion items for sale are hand made.  It is really nice to shop and know that there is someone there who took the time to make the items with their own hands.  Most of the time, it has something to do with nature and being aware of the world we live in.  One of the "standard" fashion statements are Icelandic sweaters.  They are NOT cheap.  Mr. S. has been looking at many of the different options this whole trip.  Some are not made as well as others.  And, there is a jump in price for the better made sweaters.  Part of me things that the design of the sweaters is inspired by the mountaintops where there are often wedges of white snow between the sharp cliffs of rock.  Mr. S. bought a sweater!  Yay!
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Can you see how the top of the mountain reminds me of these sweaters? There are tons of different varieties of sweaters. I opted for one with a hood.

Where exactly is Mr. S.?

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The read dot! Right here y'all! I took this photo from the side of a restaurant wall. I thought it was pretty neat. It is very far North. It doesn't look as far as Antarctica for sure. Though, anything more north of this pretty much is covered in ice all the time.

Some New Facts About Trolls

PictureThis is a drawing Mr. S. found on the internet. He seems to have a lot of the physical characteristics I have been hearing about.
I do feel like I am becoming a bit of a "troll historian." So far, nobody is getting sick of me asking about trolls.  Did you know that trolls are very individual creatures?  From what I gather, Icelandic trolls are very big in size. They range from "large" to full on "enormous."  I guess that would be XXXXXXXXXXXL size.! Trolls are so big because they don't use up very much energy.  They, too, rely on the volcanic nature of Iceland for their energy.  In fact, they mostly reside underground.  So, they are warmer than most because they hang out where the lava is molten!  Also, they sleep A LOT!  Like all the time!  So, when they are done doing whatever they are doing - they just go right back to sleep!  Nice life!

There are a few characteristics of trolls.  They typically have very big noses.  This is because they live for a very, very long time.  Some troll shave horns, some trolls have jagged teeth (like fangs) that come out of the bottom of their mouths.  Some, though very few, even have tails!  For trolls, having warts on their face is a GOOD thing.  They view it as a fashion statement.  In face, they even gather up natural ingredients to help grow new ones as a fashion statement! While we might think these appearances are very, very scary, no need to worry.  Trolls have very high sense of self-esteem and think that they are beautiful just the way they are!   Everybody tells me that they are actually very loving creatures, though sometimes full of mischief!

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Day 7 - Museum Day and Countryside

7/23/2015

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Today, we disembarked the boat, and Mr. S. had to say, "goodbye" to the National Geographic Explorer.  It was a lovely 3 days with the ship.  I was amazed that many of the staff remembered me - waiters, cleaning people, reception.  I am sad to leave them at this moment. 

Before getting to our hotel, we had a full day of scenic drives and touring of 3 museums in Reykjavik.  I am pleased that I am now able to spell the name of Iceland's capital city without looking at something!  I guess after a week, you can almost do anything.

Scenic Drives

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Click and make this bigger. Can you see the little church?
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Amazing silhouette of the mountains against the lava field.
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Colorful boats against the hills of a harbor.
There are many photos that I have to share with out. Iceland is so beautiful - full of buildings with every color you can imagine.  I know I shared this with you in a previous post.  However, it goes without saying that it makes taking photos easy when you have the natural background of hardened volcanic seas and clouds dancing in the skies.
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Always impressive skies over an island dock.

Historical Open Air Museum of Arbaejarsafn.

This was a first for Mr. S.  We were brought to an "open air" museum.  The purpose of this museum is to collect/conserve cultural objects from the settlement times of Reykjavik to present.  Houses at this museum crossed many time periods.  Some had live roofs with grass growing!  There were chickens, lambs and so much history at this museum.  You could almost imagine how people lived back hundreds of years ago.
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More houses from the live museum.
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Sheep in the live museum.
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House from many years ago that had many additions added to it over the years. You could smell the green grasses growing on the inside.
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Inside one of the house above with various objects used in daily life.
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Yellow flowers always make everything okay!

National Museum of Iceland

Okay, Mr. S. has to tell you some truth!  I appreciate ALL that Iceland has to offer.  However, this museum is a REAL snoozer.  Our guide, Earling, was not allowed to talk.  Pictures were not allowed to be taken.  Frankly, the context of this history was limited for Mr. S.  I am borrowing some images to show here.  However, you can skip this one when you visit Iceland.  Or visit:  National Museum of Iceland for more information.
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Boats, tapestries and such. Again, lost on Mr. S. My apologies.
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This is an old door from a church years ago. There is a mythological story in the carvings on it. They "say" there is a third circle "somewhere." Perhaps the trolls have it?
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The museum from the outside. Can you tell how small it is compared to our museums?

Saga Museum

Our last museum was down right freaky!  So, there is a rich history of struggle, fighting, social climbing and brutality in the early years of Iceland.  They have come a long way!  This museum has LIFE SIZED sculptures of hundreds of years of history of Iceland.  They give you a headset so you can listen to the recordings of the historical narratives.  The people LOOK ALIVE and VERY REAL. They even were tricky and have some of them move just a little bit - so the realness even makes you more uncomfortable.  The museum is not for the weak of heart.  While I can't say it is "adult" in nature, they really do capture of harsh realities of life so many years ago. A parent might need to help a child walk through this museum. To the right is a video giving you a glimpse of the museum. 
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Parents, please view the video before your child to make sure it doesn't have anything you don't care for them to see. Kids, ASK MOM OR DAD FIRST!
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Seriously, he looked so real to me!
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Trolls versus Fairies - what is the deal?

So, you can have an Icelandic Troll
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Or you can have a fairy....
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They are very different.  From what I can best gather, the fairies are very small. I think they have wings - but I am no expert.  The trolls are much larger and stronger than humans.  As for now, I am getting more information from the local folk on the trolls.  Will keep asking about fairies though. 

Some Troll History

So, trolls were living alone and in total happiness in Iceland before the Vikings came.  When that happened, their world was turned upside down!  The Vikings were not very nice; they were very aggressive.  Because of this, the two groups (trolls and Vikings) were not really compatible island-mates. When the first trolls happened upon the new Viking settlers, they found weapons (axes, swords, etc.) that they never had a need.  Because the trolls are nocturnal, their initial meetings happened at night when they Vikings were around a camp fire in the dark of night.  You can imagine how frightening this was for the Vikings!  Their reactions to the trolls was less than peaceful.  This initial meeting and manner of interacting with the Vikings really resulted in the reluctance for trolls to come above ground ver much - if at all.  And, this remains to be the way in which they live to this very day, even though Vikings behaviors and methods are long gone. 
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Day 6 - Rough Seas, Dynjandi Waterfalls and Troll Talk

7/22/2015

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Rough Waters in the Morning

We were expected to visit a small, remote island that one family (seriously ONE family) lives on to get some up close, personal looks at life on an outlying island.  It had promised to get us closer to puffins and the many other beautiful creatures of this land.  It was just not meant to be.  The winds were blowing quite hard and two zodiac boats disembarked with one group even getting ashore.  They were quickly called back to the Explorer because getting back ON the ship would be a huge challenge.  Imagine being on a small zodiac boat rising 10 feet up and down... trying to go through the opening of the ship.  Mr. S. was still in bed remembering the hypnotic music from the night before... and he was MORE than happy to roll back over in bed when he heard over the intercom that ALL morning adventures were cancelled.  The explorer then made its way to calmer waters that were protected by land.  I have a video here of what it is like to ride in a zodiac boat.  This was the actual landing for these falls.

Dynjandi Waterfalls - in a protective cove

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The beach was covered with electric green seaweed across the black, crunchy shore of the cove.
We then were brought over on zodiac to a coastal landing spot where a path lead to Dynjandi Waterfalls.  This was not a planned stop but as our expedition leader said, "You must always have Plan A, Plan B and Plan C."  We never found out which plan this was.
Walking up to the falls, the main deluge looked small so far way.  You could hear the thundering rush of water as it plummeted to the earth.  Every step took you to a new kind of life.  Pops of colors - lilac, royal blue and yellow dotted the pathway. 
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Purple flowers among the many colors walking towards the falls.
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Seaweed along the shore before getting on the path to the waterfall.
Along the shore, each step allowed you a reminder that you were on a volcanic island.  The shore had black, crunchy sand that snap, crackled and popped with each step.  Strewn along the cost was various kinds of seaweed laying about.  The local artesians use this to make various crafts like necklaces, beads and belts.  It was so neat to see the live beginning of what could end up in one of the many shops in the main city.
Eventually, the path made its way from the beach to numerous steps - each foot movement was like a clod of an Icelandic horse.  I can't say that I was moving as fast or effortlessly as those beautiful beasts.  :) 
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The walk to the larger falls was long and steep. You had to watch your footing on every step.
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Feeder Dyke that the naturalist was talking about on the video. This was the first falls that we walked upon.
To some, the trek up to the falls would have seemed easy.  Mr. S. felt like he was getting officially old!  While the hike didn't seem exceptionally long, it was steep and up and up and up and up it went!  I wasn't too concerned with taking a moment to let someone stop to pass by or helping someone who needed a hand to come down.  A moment for a breathe meant that I could enjoy the spender of the falls and mountainside.  Each step brought me a little closer to this beauty; that was motivation enough. I honestly was tired looking back at the videos!
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The majesty of the falls from start to finish. Wow!
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View from the shore to the mouth of the cove.
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Some more pops of lemon-yellow flowers along the path to the waterfalls.
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A smaller section of the rolling waters and green grasses of ICELAND. Um... no ice here!
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Mr. S. taking a selfie by the falls.

Oh.. and some things about trolls!

Trolls are actually related to us! Many humans have been afraid of them because of their tremendous strength and size.  Mostly, I think we were probably just jealous of them.  They are said to be harmless and quite loveable (probably like my little minions in first grade - smile - ).  They are nocturnal - which means they sleep during the day and come alive at night.  They used to spend much more time above ground. That is... until people invaded their land.  After their first horrific encounter with humans, the trolls made it their business to stay way from us as much as possible.  It is because of this that it is so difficult for any of us to come across them.  They only come out under complete cover of night.  Right now, Iceland has almost the ENTIRE day of daylight.  It makes it hard for humans (like Mr. S. ) to sleep and for humans (still like Mr. S.) to find them!  I will continue to gather stories and be on the look out.  If I have to stay up all night, I will do so for my smelly, little minions that I love so much!  Until tomorrow! 
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Day 5 Latrabjarg Cliffs, Flatey Island and Icelandic Musicians

7/19/2015

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Latrabjarg Cliffs

The morning began with the National Geographic Explorer cruising past Iceland’s impressive Latrabjarg Cliffs.  The rocky formation rises out of the water – surely one of God’s most impressive natural sculptures spanning 14 kilometers long.  Here we were on the western-most part of Iceland, which is also one of Europe’s largest bird cliffs.  Our naturalists told fantastic stories of how the people of the past used to climb down the ropes of these cliffs to gather eggs; sometimes there were accidents that resulted in terrible injuries or even death! The people of this area relied on the eggs and birds as a major part of their diet – sometimes as many as 40,000 eggs and 36,000 birds were taken!  Now, that is a lot of scrambled eggs!

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Flatey Island and Puffins!

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Today was also a first for Mr. S. as we made our way to a “dry” landing upon Flatey Island.  The zodiac brought us right upon a white, metal floating dock that is kept on the Explorer.  The zodiac’s nose nestled right into the opening of the floating contraption that allowed us to walk right up on the shore!

Flatey Island is one of the largest of the thousands of islands here.  Large is not exactly a good word because the island has one road and maybe 20 colorful houses that are disconnected from the electronic world that we know.  I took the option of going on a photographic walk learning from one of the National Geographic photographers.  There is one small church and the tiniest library you have ever seen next to it.  The sky was a soft blue with cotton candy-like clouds whisping above.  We walked along the road to the cliffs and waited patiently for puffins!  I was so excited to be able to snap a few pictures of them.  They really feel like flying penguins even though they are not related.  They move quickly and zip back and forth from their protected nests in the jagged rocks out to see to get a snack.  The fish is so good in Iceland; I can see why they like it!

Ethereal Musicians of Iceland

This voyage is particularly special because National Geographic has made a point to bring a rich cultural enhancement on this expedition.  Tonight, we were blessed to have a variety of musical performances by local Icelandic musicians.  Mostly singing in Icelandic, the musicians sang about life, nature and love.  The various stylizations were powerful and you could see the pure love of music on the faces of the performers as they played.  The sounds blended into hypnotic melodies often sending chills on the back of my neck; it was impressive.  Their songs told stories of sadness or joy. All of them had a deeply profound connection to the planet.  It was a wonderful treat to see people who thrive and are energized by their artistic creations in music.  Video will follow when I am back to regular internet.  For now, I hope you are enjoying my stories from the North part of the world!

Here are two of the Icelandic performers that were brought to the ship.  In the beginning, the musician talks a little about them and then goes into their song.  It is magical! Enjoy!
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Day 4 – Walking Tour of Reykjavik, Icelandic Horseback Riding and Return to the National Geographic Explorer!

7/18/2015

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Today we were able to get a little later start in the morning!  Much rest has been really needed because every day is packed with so much to see, do and experience.  I have to remark that fish and lamb is the center of almost all of the meals here.  I prefer the fish and it is by far the best I have ever had.  Cod, salmon and shell fish… you name it!  Every bite seems like the fish was caught an hour before! 

Walking Tour of Reykjavik

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Today we were able to get a little later start in the morning!  Much rest has been really needed because every day is packed with so much to see, do and experience.  I have to remark that fish and lamb is the center of almost all of the meals here.  I prefer the fish and it is by far the best I have ever had.  Cod, salmon and shellfish… you name it!  Every bite seems like the fish was caught an hour before! 

Our walking tour took us through the heart of Reykjavik where we visited many of the old, established streets and buildings from centuries ago.  Everywhere you look, there are corrugated steel buildings all painted in beautiful colors – purple lilac, soft yellows and bright oranges are some of the many colors you will see.  Our tour guide explained that in the winter, Iceland gets very little sunlight.  The Icelandic people use the colors to keep them cheered up.  Our tour guide also explained that she even has been known to decorate her house with pineapples and palm trees in the winter to help keep her spirits bright, lively and silly.  It sounds like something Mr. S. would do!

We were brought to many famous locations of historic significance.  One of them is the main Lutheran Church that is the primary symbol of the town.  The front of it has graduated columns on each side shooting to the heavens above.  When you enter, the church, while very grand and big, the vista is of simple elegance.  White walls and interior architectural lines lifting higher and higher, there isn’t the usual décor of a church.  You are able to appreciate the melodic Icelandic organ music and appreciate the purpose of Iceland’s most noted places of worship. 

We came to many local artesian shops where the Icelandic sense of design was ever present.  Iceland is known for blending nature into their artistic inspiration.  So, it isn’t surprising when you hold up an amazing pair of salmon skin boots – of the trendiest design.  Or, you might pick up a beautiful green beaded necklace made from local seaweed.  Even picking up a coffee mug will have touches of leaf imprints and finger groves to make holding your coffee that much easier, pleasant and fun. 


Horseback Riding

So, Mr. S. has NEVER even touched a horse before.  Several of the guests encouraged me to try this one out.  I admit I was nervous.  The stables make their riders watch a video explaining 100 things to do and not to do when riding a horse.  I told them that I was EXTRA new to these animals; they picked my horse very carefully to me.  Finally, when I was introduced to my horse, I learned that her name was Gangster.  Yikes!  I thought I was in for some real trouble.  The girl running the stable insisted that I shouldn’t worry and that Gangster was a loving, gentle horse who listens quite well. 

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It was true.  After getting up on Gangster, we were soon off.  The sound of the horse feet made a rhythmic sound that almost put you in a trance-like state.  It was then that I could totally take in the incredible scenery of our trail.  Our path first took us through alpine pine trees with snow-capped mountains in the distance.  The air was crisp and sweet – like a granny smith apple you just took out of the refrigerator.  The path then brought us through rolling lava fields; this was an especially wonderful treat!  We have seen many of these fields from our buses.  However, it felt like we were really one with nature having a horse below us, and the beautiful world of Iceland really coming alive!  Our ride was fun – and we were even able to take our horses up to several different speeds… fast, slow and then galloping again!  Gangster was beyond sweet and knew what to do the entire time.  I loved every second of it!
Mr. S. riding horses in Iceland!

After our horseback riding, I was then brought back to the National Geographic Explorer!  This was an almost emotional experience for Mr. S.  This is the same ship that brought me to Antarctica.  Now, I am lucky enough to return to it to visit Iceland!  Even more remarkable was the staff aboard.  I can’t tell you how many people remembered me and from down the hall said, “Oh my goodness, Mr. Tom… how are you?”  Such a wonderful experience to be back and see many people who are dear to my heart. 

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The Trolls the Trolls!

I do have to tell you one more anecdote.  One of our tour guides today told us about how Iceland has 13 different Santa Clauses!  Sounds like a good thing?  Well, not so much!  I only heard about four of five of them.  They are notorious for causing so much mischief the weeks before Christmas.  They turn chairs over, mess up rooms, slam doors and enjoy making the lives of the children of Iceland a little challenging.  However there IS one very, very mean troll, the mother, who lives in the giant mountain by Reykjavik!  The guide explained that the mother troll is VERY big, VERY mean and VERY scary.  She comes down from the mountain with a giant sack on her back on December 24th.  She walks through the town and finds all of the naughty boys and girls who normally would be on a “not nice” list for Santa.  Not here!  She collects the misbehaving children and cooks them for her Christmas dinner!  OMG!  I couldn’t believe it.  I told the tour guide that all of MY kids are always nice, lovely and caring little love bugs.  Be warned if you every come to Iceland!  You don’t want the momma troll to get you! 

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Day 3 - The Golden Circle of Iceland - Gullfoss Falls, Geysir, Thingvellir National Park and Videy Island

7/17/2015

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We have been enjoying the sighs, smells and sounds of Iceland very much.  I am not sure why, but the air has a freshness unlike any place I have ever been.  Perhaps it is because the city runs on the geothermal energy and there is very little exhaust being put in the air to run the city.  There is never any harsh traffic - rush hour means there is another car passing you on the road. It is quite a welcome change from the fast pace, congestion and sounds of Chicago. 



Thingvellir National Park

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Earling demonstrating where we were on the map and how the tectonic plates are colliding providing the geothermal energy and volcanoes of Iceland.
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The Drowning Pool - where women were taken for punishment hundreds of a years ago. Hard to believe a place so beautiful could be used for such terror.
Our morning began with a stop at the famous Thingvellir National Park.  We were brought through another deep ravine again that separates the Eurasian and American tectonic plates by Earling.  He is amazing to listen to tell stories and welcomes all kinds of questions about Iceland. 
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Scenic views on the way to Thingvellir National Park
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The rift between the continents of Thingvellir National Park. This shows our the Earth's crust is ever changing and holds power beyond our comprehension.

Gulfoss Falls

Our next steps brought us to the famous Gulfoss Falls in Iceland.  A very wise guest made note that we should not compare spectacles to other things we know – merely, we should appreciate them for their individual beauty.  Earling was very quick to let all of us know that there were 108 steps to the lower level of the falls.  As we made our way to the top viewing area, you could hear the roar of the water creating a mystical song.  We made our way first cross the top taking in the beauty of the rocks where the walk was easy and calm.  Earling then brought us down the 108 steps. What he neglected to tell us was that there was a pretty intense incline walking DOWN to the lower level.  What goes down must come up!  And, Mr. S. enjoyed the lower level waterfalls only to see Early and his 76 year-old self outpace Mr. S. back to the bus.

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Geysir - an eruption!

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We then were brought to the host springs of Geysir.  Whenever you hear about a geysir on the planet, it is in reference to the place we visited.  The hot springs were different than the day before.  The smelly rotten egg smell of the bubbling waters were not present – however there were more of them.  Little signs were littered around the grounds with protective ropes keeping you safe.  I walked up slowly to the “main” geysir that regularly exploded into the air.  With each step, I say the bubbles starting to build and bubble.  Suddenly, a giant plume of water shot up over 100 feet into the air.  The crowd “oohhed and awed” as the water came falling down ot the ground like a rainstorm.  Of course, Mr. S. had to position himself in the direction of the wind for the next eruption of water!  It was exciting and fun!

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The video is of Mr. S. first walking through the park.  At the very end is a geyser eruption!  Walk along with me..  This one was much smaller than the one photographed. 

Vidley Island

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Tonight was a spectacular night – once in a lifetime.  Our group were blessed to be on a charted boat to a remote Icelandic Island where dinner was to be served to us in a house dating back a 1000 years!  The salmon and cod were equally prepared with the utmost of care where each morsel melted in your mouth accompanied by expertly chosen herbs and seasoning by the master chef brought in for this special occasion.  Additionally, Icelandic musicians were brought to perform both traditional and contemporary music of this beautiful county.  The lead vocalist had a siren-like voice that possessed both strength and delicate tones bringing the ambiance of Iceland unlike any I have ever experienced.  To top it off, there was a special memorial to John Lennon (lead singer of the Beatles) brought to the island by his wife, Yoko Ono (ask your parents about this one).  While my photographs are of a white cylinder, the memorial becomes a light sculpture during historically significant times of John Lennon’s life.  The ultimate message of the “light sculpture” is one of peace and unity.  I wish that I could be there when the cylinder is shooting a light show into the night’s sky.  What a memorable evening.  The final photo was shot as I walked home from the boat that brought  us back from the island.  The evening sky never dims during this time of the year offering many incredible reflections of the boats in the harbor.

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Day 2 - Reykjanes Peninsula Tour - Garoskagi Lighthouse, Hot Springs of Seltun/Krysuvik and the "Pearl" 

7/15/2015

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Our morning started very early with a bus tour that lasted the majority of the day.  We were met by our tour guide, Earling. He is a pretty remarkable Icelander who has lived all over the world - London, Thailand, U.S..... you name it.  He talked about the history, culture and geography of Iceland.  Check out information on plate tectonics. Or, look here to learn more about geothermal energy.  Iceland is truly green; I don't mean the colors! They use the volcanic energy from beneath the surface of the earth to heat their homes and even their sidewalks! 

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Here is our esteemed tour guide, Earling. Super smart and reads THREE books a week!

Rolling Hills of Iceland

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Rolling lands, some stony while others are fantastic greens.
To the right is a video of Earling giving us the explanation of how the lava got its name.
Our trip brought us down winding roads of lava fields that once were molten hot, spewing forth from the mantel below.  Centuries later we learn that these rolling hills, while cool and hard for a long time, show little signs of erosion.  Soil does not develop; without that, it is hard for trees and larger plant life too take root.  The result is still amazing - mounds and mounds of once churning earth now covered in green moss of every green you can name - mint, Christmas, evergreen... you name it.  The result is pure beauty. Earling explained that this kind of lava flow is the same as Hawaii.  It is called "ah-ah" lava.

Garoskagi Lighthouse

We then made our way to Garoskagi Lighthouse.  This first stop was a nice next after about a 40 minute drive.  The air was cool and crisp.  There wasn't a sound to be heard - the waters were still with few birds in the sky.  There were many gulls in the distance taking a morning rest in the seaweed at the end of the shore.  In the middle of this peacefulness stood an old lighthouse rising from the ground providing a little reminder of what Iceland was like 100 years ago or so. 
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Crossing a Continental Divide!

I came back to the American continent for a few minutes!  Seriously folks! Our bus took a quick stop for our group to go and walk IN the place where Iceland is being ripped apart a few centimeters a year.  One side is the Eurasian continental plate and the other is the America plate holding North America!  The ravine was filled with a black fine sand that made me think back to my days in Antarctica slippy and sliding with every step.  What an experience to travel back and forth - for free! I am so glad I didn't get swallowed up and fall to the center of the earth!
Earling explains our location.

Smelly, Stinky Encounter
of the "Hot Springs" kind!

Our next treat for the day was stop at the Hot Springs of Seltun/Krysuvik. Earling must have told us to NOT even think of getting off the path to see if the water was hot - it is!  As we walked up to the pathways, you suddenly were faced with this thick smell of rotten eggs.  There weren't any chickens.  It was the sulfur mixed with the vaporous steam coming out of the ground.  Walking further brought you to wooden planks that allowed you an overlooking view into the "bog of hot, smelly, bubbling stench.  Many people had to cover their noses as they made their way.  To the skin, you could feel the heat being released into the air.  Low sounds of percolating bubbles could be heard if you stood absolutely still.  Various mists of noxious fumes blew in the wind.  It was spectacular, beautiful and exceptionally stinky! 
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A lone path bringing explorers back to the safety of our bus.
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Explorers walking along the murky, steaming paths.
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Mr. S. taking a quick sit along the mounding grounds by the hot springs.
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More steam rising sending icky, rotten eggs smells into the atmosphere!
Above are the bubbling, smelly fields.  Beautiful, but stinky!
First bubbling fields I came across. 

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The Pearl - amazing that it is really the center of the geothermal use in this part of Iceland.
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The view of Reykjavik from above! Stunning !
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Some flora...
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And more...

Sitting at the top of the World - well kind of!

Earling was in a bit of a hurry at this part of the journey.  We had lunch reservations and apparently dilly-dallied far too long and were an hour behind! We had to stop at "The Pearl" which is one of the plants that takes the heat from well below the earth's crust, brings it up and uses the steam to heat almost EVERYTHING.  It was remarkable to hear Earling explain how they even have outdoor heated pools in the winter.  They also don't have to ever shovel snow because they use this energy to melt the snow on the sidewalks. Going to The Pearl offered beautiful photos of Reykjavik.  The Pearl is called so because it has a mirror, rounded exterior - looking like a grey pearl shining in the sun. 
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And fauna...

A little treat... for Indigo Blu Gray and friends!
Fairy sighting and Santa remnants up North!

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Here you have it! A fairy, a fairy! I was so excited. Though, she just ran off and disappeared in the blink of an eye! Also, I came across Santa's boots hanging out next to this mailbox. I might have put some of my love bugs names in the mailbox! Well, maybe it was a naught and nice list for next year. ;)
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Day 1 - The Journey, The Blue Lagoon and Yummies! 

7/14/2015

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The Journey There - yikes!

So, perhaps I was in denial or still basking in the glow of Antarctica but this was one HECK of a journey!  We started in Chicago at 4:30 and made our way without problem to New York City.  The flight was easy and calm.  In less than 2 hours, we were in the Big Apple waiting for our flight to Iceland leaving at 10 o'clock. 
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Not OUR airplane. But we were on Delta and is our plane for the trip!
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Mr. S. felt like this!
After waiting and waiting, we finally were allowed to board our flight and off we were!  It was an overnight trip to Iceland.  I have to tell the truth.  Mr. S. was squished for the five hour flight the entire time.  Sleep did not happen at all.  We arrived in Keflavik, Iceland at 8 a.m. in the morning!  We arrived in Iceland hungry, VERY tired and honestly - cranky. 
Mr. S. had a bit of a problem.  He was tired, hungry, cranky.  AND, we had planned for my mom and I to take a bus straight from the airport to the famous Blue Lagoon.  The Blue Lagoon is known for being a geo-thermal place for people to go and bathe.  It is ACTUALLY blue!  We got there pretty quickly and were greeted by very friendly staff who walked us through the ropes.  My mom and I had paid for a premium package which meant we had a lovely fruit juice and lunch waiting for us!  We really had not had any food since the night before!  We made our way into the beautiful lagoon.  The waters were a crystal blue and you felt the immediate heat as your toes entered the water. This was in a complete contrast from the 50 degree temperature outside of the water so there was a mystical mist that rose over the waters. 
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The Blue Lagoon with people bathing in the magical healing waters.
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Up close look at the blue waters!

The Blue Lagoon - straight form the plane!

A Nap, Incredible Food and a Walk (troll sighting!)

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Chef preparing our dinner.
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Langoustine Fritters. Delish!
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Whale! Baleen Whale for dinner! I did ask if it was on the endangered species list. It is NOT.
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A little atmosphere and love of all things beef!
So, Mr. S. and his mom became very, very hungry!  It was almost unbearable. Luckily, we had a list of restaurants with many incredible suggestions. We decided to go to a restaurant by the name, "Steak House."  I had a terrible taste for beef - not just any beef but a hamburger made with premium grade Angus beef, topped with truffle oil and bone marrow.  Quite the delight.  However, it didn't begin there!  Mr. S. had WHALE.  Seriously, whale!  Baleen Whale was on the menu and while I had serious reservations, it was highly recommended by the waitress.  I thought it would taste like fish - wrong!  It was more "beefy" in texture and taste than anything else.  It had a Chipoltle jelly and Japanese fine crackers placed on top of it.  Mr. S.'s mom opted to have the Langoustine Fritters - those are balls of delicately fried dough around Icelandic lobster.  All of that was sitting above a bed of cream green, ginger, pesto sauce.  YUM!

Some Reykjavik Sights

After our delicious dinner, it was time to walk home.  We were amazed at the wonderful colors of this beautiful city bringing to life the culture of Iceland.  We have only just begun.  One of my favorite pictures was of a huge mural on the side of a building, reflecting itself giving its views a second glimpse of its beauty. 
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I can't wait to see these little creatures!
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Click on this image to see the incredible art. The water reflection really brings it to life.
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A beautiful line of red benches. I saw the shot!
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Mr. S. then happened upon a polar bear sitting in the street and HAD to get a picture. Well, it wasn't a REAL polar bear.  While I do think they must come our Iceland, I don't think it is Polar Bear season!
And our FIRST troll sighting!  I didn't get to talk to him, but I cannot wait!  I can imagine how bad he must smell!  I hear that trolls can be very, very smelly, cranky and not nice.  Then, there are the nice ones!  Which one do you think he is?
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Just a few days away...  Iceland

7/10/2015

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I am getting ready for a new experience - traveling to Iceland!  Mr. S. is so excited and glad to be able to bring this experience to you.  I will most certainly be looking for all sorts of trolls and fairies.  A couple of my students asked that I try to bring one back home..  If they come, they will have to be willing and nice!  I have read a little about the magical creatures and now know that they come in a big range of different personalities! 

A few things that I am expecting to see - geothermal lands and systems.  Iceland is known for their very unique ways of harnessing the energy of the earth.  They actually use the volcanic energy to bring heat to their homes and buildings!  Also, I hope to see some adorable puffins!  I am very excited to see geysers for the first time as well as travel to the famous Blue Lagoon!

Here is a map of our expected travels.  I leave on Monday! Stay tuned! If you have questions you would like me to research or ask the National Geographic Staff, ask away!
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    Mr. Szymanski is a First Grade Teacher at Walt Disney Magnet School in Chicago, IL.  He is a 2014 National Geographic Grosvenor Teaching Fellow.  Last December, he traveled to Antarctica and shared the experience with his students through his Antarctica Blog. 

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