Iceland: Feel Some Healing in the World's Safest Country!

 

                                                         

Iceland is an expensive country but there are ways to enjoy it on a budget, such as staying in hostels and shopping for food at supermarkets like Bonus. Whatever your budget, you'll find Iceland to be full of natural wonders. The Icelandic people are friendly and welcoming to tourists. If you like traveling, add Iceland to your bucket list.

ICELAND, the land of ice and fire is a top tourist country destination and for good reason. ICELAND is currently the #1 safest country in the world. In Iceland you'll find plenty of pure air & water, and scenery that will take your breath away. From black beaches to glaciers & geysers, to beautiful healing lagoons and thermal pools, Northern lights, fjords, mountains, and a cosmopolitan city....these are just some of the things awaiting you in spectacular ICELAND, an island in the North Atlantic with a population of 375,881. Having spent a week in Iceland I have come up with the ideal way to enjoy this incredible country home to friendly residents, spectacular scenery, and attractions galore.

HOW TO ENJOY YOUR VISIT TO ICELAND!

Keflavik: Almost everyone who comes to ICELAND arrives at Keflavik International Airport located about 45 minutes from the city center of Reykjavik. Don't overlook Keflavik for an overnight stay. It's a quiet and relaxing town. Since my friend and I knew that we wouldn't land until about 23:00 (10:00 pm) we booked a room at Micro Suites which by the way is an awesome place to stay and so close to the airport. Keflavik means "Driftwood Bay." This town is located in southwest Iceland, along the Reykjanes coast and has some attractions worth seeing, Brimketill, Icelandic Museum of Rock & Roll, Keflavik Maritime Center, and Viking World. You'll also find some good eating establishments and shopping in Keflavik but the most famous nearby attraction is Blue Lagoon.  Yes, The Blue Lagoon is much closer to Keflavik than it is to Reykjavik. There are plenty of lodging options in Keflavik, so it's a really good place to begin your Iceland adventure.

Hotel Berg: A boutique hotel close to the airport. Located above a small marina. Guests enjoy the rooftop pool.

Hotel Keflavik is a short walk to the North Atlantic Ocean. Guests get access to the fitness center. Hotel Keflavik is known for serving a delicious breakfast.

Micro Suites, ultra clean and cozy place to stay. Spacious suites, and amazing rain showers in the bathrooms. Complimentary breakfast snacks are included with stay. 

REYKJAVIK: This international city has everything you need; attractions, bars, cafes, outdoor thermal pools, restaurants, shops, sightseeing tours....and more. Reykjavik has a pretty harbour. Lots of sightseeing tours originate on the harbour too; Northern Lights cruises, puffin and whale watching tours. You can also take a ferry to Videy Island, a lush island off the coast of Reykjavik. Videy Island is known for artwork, bird and plant species, and the famous Imagine Peace Tower, constructed by Yoko Ono as a tribute to her husband, superstar musician John Lennon, and their shared interest in world peace. Ferries to Videy Island from Reykjavik are more frequent during the summer months.

SPOTLIGHT ON THERMAL SWIMMING POOLS:

Entry Fee: Around 1,000 to 1,250 ISK per Adult, Often Free for Children

They are scattered all over Iceland, outstanding thermal pools which often feature a large swimming thermal pool (indoor and outdoor pool),  jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, cold plunge, changing room, showers, and locker and key, all for only about 1,200 Icelandic krona. This is an amazing deal for a relaxing morning, afternoon, or evening visit. Best of all you're surrounded by the local Icelandic people. This was one of the best experiences of my visit to Iceland. It was wonderful to mingle with the local Icelandic people and enjoy the healing water. My two recommendations in Reykjavik are "Sundhollin" which first opened as an indoor pool in 1937. It's right in the center of town in Midborg and quite unique. Vesturbaer, is a quiet residential district of Reykjavik and it is home to"Vesturbaejarlaug" featuring an outdoor swimming pool along with jacuzzis, steam room, and sauna. It's a pleasant walk from the Midborg district. No matter where you find yourself in Iceland, head to one of the amazing thermal baths.

LAGOONS:

Blue Lagoon: Almost everyone knows about the Blue Lagoon known for its turquoise waters and silica. Silica is a skincare ingredient that strengthens and protects skin and helps the skin retain moisture. The Blue Lagoon was recently recognized by National Geographic as one of the 25 wonders of the world.

Secret Lagoon: A bit off the beaten path and on the Golden Circle tour the Secret Lagoon also known as Gamla Laugin dates back to 1891 and is the oldest pool in Iceland There's an active geyser that spouts every few minutes. 

Sky Lagoon: A new lagoon that opened in 2021, Sky Lagoon is part of the Reykjavik region and gaining lots of popularity. Getting here is easy and it's a beautiful place. This is where the sea meets the sky. The Sky Lagoon is stunning and refreshing. It's adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean and has lovely views. The seven step ritual is the most popular spa package which includes the lagoon, the cold plunge, sauna, cold mist, sky body scrub, steam, and shower. Truly an amazing spa experience.

GeoSea (North Iceland)

If you make it the stunning region of North Iceland, visit GeoSea. You'll be blessed with mineral rich seawater and heat from the Earth's core. GeoSea is perched along a western facing cliffside that overlooks the Arctic Circle. When you're soaking in the baths here you have the opportunity to see both the northern lights and some whales. A genuine Icelandic experience.

The average stay for tourists in ICELAND is about one week which allows for plenty of sightseeing.  The Golden Circle Tour is currently the most popular tour followed by the South Coast Tour. Although much further to reach, the Westfjords region will reward you with true Icelandic wilderness. The Westfjords are located in a remote region of Iceland but still accessible to those that wish to drive or fly to Isafjordur, the largest town in the Westfjords.

SWIMMING IN THE OCEAN?

Since ICELAND is surrounded by the ocean, it it possible to swim? Absolutely!! Despite the cold water there are people that actually swim in the Atlantic Ocean, at least for a few minutes. There are accessible beaches around the country but beware of dangerous waves, most notably Reynisfjara Beach (Black Sand Beach) near the village of Vik. The rip tides are known to be sneaky and powerful and there are warning signs about the dangers of going into the ocean at Reynisfjara Beach. Some deaths have occurred here, so beware!

Hungry? What to Eat in Iceland

Fish Stew: (Plokkfiskur) This is a traditional stew made from fish such as cod, potatoes, onion, and béchamel sauce.

Hakari: Shark?, yes shark. This meat is fermented for over a month and then dried.

Hardfiskur: Dried Fish, eaten with butter. Vacuum packed, Hardfiskur is found at supermarkets throughout Iceland.

Lamb: Because they roam freely in the Icelandic wilderness the sheep live on berries, grass, and seaweed and no antibiotics. This results in tender meat which locals and tourists praise as being extremely flavorful.

Pylsur: An Icelandic hot dog made of beef, lamb, and pork.

Skyr: An Icelandic dessert consisting of yogurt with a texture of fresh cheese. Skyr comes in a variety of mouthwatering flavors. My personal favorite brand of Skyr in Iceland is isey skyr. Skyr is high in protein and fat free. So creamy and delicious. I place Skyr as the best thing to eat in Iceland.

ICELANDERS really like licorice. When visiting Iceland give licorice a try, especially the chocolate covered licorice. Recommendation: Pristur Lakkris made of toffee, licorice, and chocolate. 

ICELAND, the safest country in the world, an island on the Atlantic Ocean, come here for amazing scenery and some good healing! I 💖💖💖Iceland! It was an incredible place to visit!

                                  

WISHING YOU A MAGNIFICENT TIME IN ICELAND! THE PUFFINS WILL BE WAITING FOR YOUR ARRIVAL!

Exploring the prettiest town in CANADA!

This town in the province of Ontario was once named the prettiest in Canada by Queen Elizabeth II. What town is it? It's GODERICH!

A port town, lovely Goderich sits on bluffs overlooking the majestic shores of a Great Lake known as Lake Huron. Goderich is an ideal place to spend the summer months. Whether you prefer surfing, swimming, kayaking, or paddle boarding, you'll find the conditions the perfect fit for water sports. The sandy beaches allow for lounging and suntanning. Not to be missed is the lighthouse. You'll have to climb some steep steps but it's worth it for the magnificent views. 

Goderich, Ontario, Canada happens to have the largest underground salt mine in the world. The Goderich Salt Mine, Compass Minerals salt mine is as deep as the CN Tower in Toronto.  The salt mine is 1,800 feet under Lake Huron.

Over on 91 Hamilton Street the staff at Goderich Tourist Information Centre will happily provide all the information you need to make your stay in Goderich pleasant and memorable.

                                          Lake Huron, A Lovely Great Lake!

THINGS TO DO IN GODERICH:

Explore THE SQUARE, in downtown Goderich. Here you'll find everything from clothing shops to restaurants. The Bedford Hotel at 92 Courthouse Square is a century old historic hotel offering 35 rooms and dining options. 

On a rainy day, yes Goderich does have rainy days, check out Fincher's Bookstore. At Fincher's you'll find plenty of books, brand name toys, games, puzzles, and more.

The unique SurfSup Skate Cafe is one of the best surf shops in Ontario. Not only can you find great merchandise here but you can enjoy pastries and coffee too. If you're a skateboarder you'll love the mini indoor ramps for skating.

Bicycling is plentiful around Goderich. You can rent bicycles at 360 Bikes 'n Boards!

Check out Cait's Cafe at 168 Courthouse Square.Enter the doors to this cozy cafe and enjoy soups, salads, and sandwiches. Made from scratch desserts like the date squares are a must.

Shanahan's Quality Meats is an ideal shop for getting your picnic needs.

THE BEACHES OF GODERICH

GODERICH MAIN BEACH

ROTARY COVE BEACH

ST. CHRISTOPHER'S BEACH

SUNSET BEACH

BAKERIES:

Blake Street Bakery,  Culbert's Bakery,

LODGING OPTIONS:

Bedford Hotel, Cedar Lodge Motel, Colborne Bed & Breakfast, Comfort Inn & Suites, Dreamz Inn, Samuels Boutique Hotel.

Not far from Goderich is the exquisite Benmiller Inn & Spa!

MUSEUMS:

Huron County Museum, Huron Historic Goal

PICNIC SPOTS IN GODERICH!

Cove Beach, Goderich Main Beach, Point Farms Provincial Park.

RESTAURANS:

Beach Street Station, Chucks Roadhouse Bar & Grill, Goderich Harbour Restaurant, Park House Bar & Restaurant, Part 2 Bistro, West Street Willy's Eatery, Wing Hong Restaurant

GODERICH is a splendid town whether you choose to come here for the day, week, or month. Come and explore "the prettiest town in CANADA!"

                                Enjoy tasty food at Cait's Cafe while in Goderich!

ITALY ADVENTURE: ROAMING THROUGH ROME, ON YOUR OWN BEFORE HEADING HOME!

Landing in Roma, Italia on the 10th of September 2022 was the cultural immersion I needed before heading to Italy's Tuscan region to study Italian at Il Sasso Language School in Montepulciano. The long transatlantic flight along with jet lag, a delayed train ride from the airport to the city, and walking to my hotel with luggage in the heat made me almost faint from exhaustion. I was delighted when I finally made it to my hotel called "Astoria Garden." It was a cozy and peaceful inside and I was so happy that my room was ready. I had to pay the city of Rome tax and it took me five minutes to find some Euros in my handbag  Once I was officially checked in, I walked up a flight of steps to my room and immediately took a long hot shower. Afterward I opened my doors, stepped onto the balcony and looked at the architecture and lush gardens before me. A cup of cappuccino in the garden beckoned me but I was too anxious to begin exploring the "Eternal City"even though I wasn't feeling my best.

                                    

                       My first day in Italy at the Astoria Garden Hotel (Roma)

Roma e una grande città. Rome is a big city and it can take months to explore all it has to offer. Of course there are the not to miss attractions; Colosseum, The Pantheon, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Vatican City, all of this takes time and traveling so on my first day in Roma, I just walked around the neighborhood I was staying in and savored the simple things like eating some pizza and gelato. One of the best things to do upon arrival to Roma is to get on one of the "hop on and hop off" buses. This allows you to get a taste of all Roma has to offer without feeling overwhelmed. You can just sit through the whole bus journey and get back on the bus later and decide what areas to visit. One day in Roma isn't enough so after completing my three week Italian language course I returned to Roma (since my flight was departing from there) and enjoyed a few days to really explore the "City of Seven Hills."

Ancient Roma

THESE ARE A FEW OF ROME'S NEIGHBORHOODS:

Ancient Rome is located south of the city center and it is here where you'll find the great ruins of the ancient city. This area is entirely walkable and the top attractions are the world famous Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Palatino (Palatine Hill). 

Triente is where you'll find the beloved sights, Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. This neighborhood also offers high end shopping, elegant restaurants, wonderful gelato shops, and glamorous pricey hotels. Enjoy a horse drawn carriage ride through this neighborhood dotted with colorful flowers and palm trees.

Trastevere a photogenic neighborhood with cobbled lanes and ivy-clad facades is an exciting neighborhood and relatively car-free which makes it perfect for walking.Worthy sights in Trastevere are the Basilica di Santi Maria, Botanical Gardens, Galleria Corsini, and Villa Farnesina.This neighborhood has a variety of popular bars, gourmet choice restaurants, hotels, and cozy bed and breakfast.

Vatican City, a sacred place and the world's smallest sovereign state sits over River Tiber. Home to the Pope, Vatican City brings in the crowds to see wonders such as Saint Peter's Basilica, the Michelangelo-painted Sistine Chapel, Vatican Library and other architecture masterpieces. Often crowded it is advised to reserve tickets in advanced.

About 30 kilometers from Rome is the town of Tivoli known for its thermal springs. Relax at Terme di Roma, Acque Albule. People come from all over the world to bathe here due to the healing therapeutic properties. Visit Unesco World Heritage, Hadrian's Villa, a large villa complex built in circa AD 120 by Roman Emperor Hadrian.

THINGS I DID, AS A SOLO TRAVELER, ROAMING THROUGH ROME ON MY OWN AND RECOMMEND:

Bus Tours are a recommended way to explore ROMA!

Take a hop on and off bus tour of Rome. This open air bus is perfect for seeing the sights and deciding where to get off to explore various area of Rome. Highly recommended! Roma Termini (Rome's main train station) is a good place to begin your tour as there are many buses departing from there. Try Big Bus Rome, Greenline Tours, InfoBus, or Gray Line. All are good choices.

Cooking Classes are taught all over Rome and worth taking. Italian cuisine is some of the best on the planet. Cooking classes are informative, not only do you learn how to prepare some of Italy's most popular foods but you also get to indulge in the food afterwards. Pasta, Pizza, Tiramisu are some of the things you get to prepare. Trip Advisor has a listing of cooking classes available in Rome on their website.

If you're traveling solo, consider staying at a hostel. After returning from my Italian studies in Montepulciano, Tuscany I had three days in Rome on my own and staying at the Bee Hive Hostel made my visit to Roma feel like I was with family. Conversations about travel, dining in restaurants, taking walking tours around Roma, and sharing a bottle of wine with new friends are the perks of a hostel stay.

                             A magnificent way to begin your day in Roma.


                              Caffes in Roma are abundant and perfectto.

Start your morning with outstanding coffee. Rome abounds with caffes. A cup of cappuccino or macchiato with a brioche is heavenly. I highly recommend a brioche with pistachio creme. Gelato is a must in Roma. Try as many flavors as you can. The cannolis, pasta dishes, risotto, & pizza in Roma are a culinary delight and not too expensive either. Indulge in Italian dishes that intrigue you. Limoncello, an Italian liqueur made from lemon zest is enjoyed by the Italians and tourists and can be purchased in bottles or by the glass.

                        An advantage of staying at a hostel in Rome is making friends!

Take a break and stroll through one of the public parks in Rome. Villa Borghese is the most central of Rome's main parts and covers 100 acres of gardens, woods, and grassy banks.Villa Ada once the private estate of King Vittorio Emanuele III is a big park with nearly 395 acres with lawn, lakes, and shady paths. Locals enjoy this park, especially during the summer when outdoor concerts are staged.

ROMA, ITALIA is a world class destination. Some tourists travel on a tour or in groups, some travel as a family or couple and then there are those like myself who travel solo. "When in Rome, do as the Romans." Having better knowledge of Italian would have made roaming through Rome on my own much more manageable and pleasant. Regardless, visiting ROMA was a dream come true and despite a few setbacks my visit was filled with wonder, excitement, and cultural immersion. If you find yourself in Rome, enjoy all the "Eternal City" has to offer before you head back home.

                                                                           

                             Gelato in Italy is the ultimate! Magnificent!

HAVE A WONDERFUL TIME IN ROME!

PASSARE DEI BEI MOMENTI A ROMA!