Touring the 'town'

 

Wednesday was a full on, after breakfast of  sausage, scrambles egg and chips ( yes chips), I was ready to face the day. So I headed off to the harbour and got on the hop on hop off bus,  I did one circuit and then got off and walked to the home of national orchestra, Harpa.

I turned into a proper architecture geek , this stunning modern glass building seemed to change colour as you walked towards it. A tiny stream of geothermal water runs down the side of the path leading to the main entrance.

It overlooks the sea with its lava beach and view across the water of snow covered mountains. Truly stunning.

The bus covered a circle of Reykjavik including the Cathedral which I had already seen. I ended up doing the route twice just to make sure that I didn't miss anything.

I also went to the settlement museum which housed the oldest man made structure in Iceland and  had the ruins of  a Viking Longhouse This was discovered in 2001 when work was being carried out on the house which stood on the site, this was actually craned off the site and excavation and archaeological work commenced.

I also went to National Gallery of Iceland and The  Museum of Photography.

So you may wonder why I wasn't at The Blue lagoon or doing the Golden Circle.

I had planned to go to the Blue Lagoon, but due to having had the cold from hell and chest infection the week before I didn't really fancy splashing around in hot water with other people, and with hindsight having been out in the freezing cold ( even well wrapped up ) for 3 hours the night before I think it was a wise choice.

The Golden circle was also on the radar, but to be honest I wanted to get to know the city and see some of the culture. This has been the greatest pleasure for me.

I also intend to come again and do the two things that I have highlighted above.

So what do I know about this island.

Well I know that the people are very friendly and even acknowledge you in the street.

I know that walking through the city at 1am on your own is very safe. 

I know that regardless of what anyone says salty liquorice is the food of the devil.

I know that they have a rich history and culture which is great to delve into.

I know that it is slightly pricey but petrol is the same price as home in the city and less on the outskirts!

I know that I am going to be very sad to leave.

I know that I would highly recommend my personal tour planner and if you are interested to know more, just check Dale  out here    https://dalesidebottom.notjusttravel.com/

By the time you read this  I will be eating my last breakfast and probably crying into my coffee.

This has been just exactly what I needed and I cannot wait to come back