All Things Iceland Episodes Archives - All Things Iceland

Iceland’s Most Delicious Holiday – Cream Bun Day (Bolludagur)

Jewells Chambers — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 18:09:38 +0000

If there were ever a holiday that felt personally designed for me, it’s Bolludagur, Iceland’s cream bun day and, in my opinion, Iceland’s most delicious holiday.

Bolludagur takes place every year on the Monday before Lent. And on this day, Iceland collectively agrees to eat an unreasonable amount of cream bun without guilt, without shame, and usually without stopping at just one.

What Is a Bolla, Exactly?

A bolla is an Icelandic cream bun. Traditionally, it’s made from a light choux-style pastry that’s sliced open, filled generously with whipped cream and sometimes jam, and then topped with chocolate glaze or icing.

That’s the classic version, but modern Bolludagur has evolved far beyond that. These days, bakeries get wildly creative with flavors, fillings, and toppings, which is exactly why this day has become such a big deal.

Why Bolludagur Is a Thing in Iceland?

Bolludagur is part of Iceland’s version of Carnival, leading into Lent. Historically, it was about indulging before a period of restraint, but in true Icelandic fashion, it turned into a full-blown pastry event.

How Much Do Cream Buns Cost in Iceland?

Before we get into the bakeries, let’s talk price.

As of 2026, most Icelandic cream buns fall somewhere between:

575 ISK ($4.70) – 925 ISK ($7.56) per bun

Prices vary depending on the bakery, the size, and how elaborate the bun is. This is just an estimate based on current offerings — prices may be higher or lower in the future, so always check directly with the bakery.

5 Places Worth Visiting for Cream Buns in Reykjavík

1. Plantan Kaffihús and Bistro

Plantan is a plant-based favorite in Reykjavík, and for Bolludagur they’re going all in with six different cream buns this year:

Snickers
Swedish Semla
Biscoff Cheesecake
Classic
Matcha
Raspberry

If you’re vegan, plant-based, lactose intolerant, or just curious, Plantan is absolutely worth a stop.

2. Brauð & Co.

One of Reykjavík’s most recognizable bakeries, Brauð & Co. is offering five varieties:

Classic
Vanilla Nougat
Yuzu Lemon
Vegan
Caramel

If you want something that feels both traditional and playful, this is a great place to check out

3. Passion Reykjavík

Passion Reykjavík wins for sheer variety. They’re offering 15 different cream buns, which is honestly impressive.

Some of their flavors include:

After Eight
Hressobolla (rumored “cream bun of the year” for 2026)
Classic
Croissant-style
Irish
Strawberry
Caramel
Coconut
Nóa Kropp (Icelandic candy)
Oreo
Púnd (rum cream with sifted icing sugar)
Snickers & Banana
Twix
Valentine’s Edition
Vegan version

If you want options — a lot of options — this is the place.

4. IKEA

Yes. IKEA.

IKEA in Iceland fully participates in Bolludagur and offers seven cream buns:

Strawberry
Banana cream & hazelnut butter
Chocolate & licorice
Classic with chocolate sauce
Classic with caramel
Vegan with chocolate
Vegan with caramel

These are also typically the most affordable cream buns you’ll find.

5. Deig

Deig keeps things refined but flavorful with five varieties:

Rosehip jam
Raspberry jam
Vanilla almond
Nutella
Pistachio

If you like pastries that feel a little more elegant, Deig is a solid choice.

Random Fact of the Episode

Every year for Bolludagur, over one million cream buns are made and sold across Iceland — making it one of the most pastry-intensive days of the entire year.

Icelandic Word of the Episode

Bolluvöndur – A decorated stick children use on Bolludagur to playfully “demand” cream buns by tapping their parents and chanting “Bolla! Bolla! Bolla!”

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The post Iceland’s Most Delicious Holiday – Cream Bun Day (Bolludagur) appeared first on All Things Iceland.

Bríet Ísis Elfar – Interview with Iceland’s Fearless Pop Visionary

Jewells Chambers — Sat, 07 Feb 2026 13:11:26 +0000

Bríet Ísis Elfar is not just one of Iceland’s biggest music stars. She’s an artist who embodies fearlessness, authenticity, and constant reinvention. Her breakout English-language single In Too Deep in 2018 introduced her sultry, soulful voice to the world, but it was her 2020 album Kveðja, Bríet that catapulted her to national stardom. She won “Album of the Year” and cemented herself as one of the country’s most influential female musicians.

Big Conversations in the Coziest Setting with Center Hotels

This interview is part of my In Bed With series, created in partnership with Center Hotels. Each conversation is recorded right in a bed at one of Center Hotels’ nine locations in downtown Reykjavík—keeping things cozy, relaxed, and a little unconventional. If you’re planning a stay in the city, you can use my code ATI25 to save 25% off at any Center Hotels location in Reykjavík.

Bríet's Artistic & Spiritual Upbringing

Born in Reykjavík in 1999, Bríet grew up in a uniquely creative and spiritual household. Her father, Benedikt Elfar, taught her guitar and nurtured her love of jazz, while her mother, Ásrún Laila Awad, led sweat-lodge ceremonies infused with mantra chanting and deep emotional connection.

Raised in this world of music, ritual, and radical openness, Bríet developed both resilience and a powerful sense of self.

From Jazz Bars to Center Stage

From singing jazz in Reykjavík restaurants for a hamburger and 5,000 krónur, to debuting her original work on the stage of Sónar Reykjavík, Bríet’s journey has been anything but ordinary. She’s unapologetically experimental, whether making plastic “glass” dresses with her longtime fashion collaborator, diving into collaborative projects like 1000 orð with rapper Birnir, or writing songs that transform heartbreak into catharsis.

Bríet's Radical Honesty as a Creative Force

Known for her raw honesty, she has openly shared struggles with belonging, heartbreak, and personal growth. Yet through it all, her guiding philosophy remains simple: don’t take life too seriously, embrace failure, and always follow the intuition of the heart.

At a Turning Point, Always Becoming

Today, Bríet stands at a new turning point—after years of acclaim, collaborations with major Icelandic artists like Ásgeir Trausti and Friðrik Dór, and millions of streams worldwide, she continues to chase the unknown.

Whether sitting next to global icons in Tokyo or returning to her roots in a sweat lodge in Iceland, Bríet carries a rare ability to turn both joy and pain into beauty.

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The post Bríet Ísis Elfar – Interview with Iceland’s Fearless Pop Visionary appeared first on All Things Iceland.

5 Iceland Travel Myths – Winter Edition

Jewells Chambers — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:52:27 +0000

There’s a lot of advice about traveling to Iceland, and not all of it is helpful. In this podcast episode, I’m breaking down five common Iceland travel myths that end up quietly costing travelers time, money, and energy.

From unrealistic expectations about weather to misunderstandings around driving and seasons, this episode will help you spot the assumptions that derail trips before they even begin.

The 5 Iceland Travel Myths That Mislead Visitors

Myth 1: “Iceland is always freezing cold”

Iceland has a reputation for being brutally cold, but that’s not actually true year-round — or even most of the time. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, temperatures are often milder than people expect, especially along the coast. The bigger challenge for travelers is usually wind and changing weather, not extreme cold. When people assume “freezing,” they often overpack or misunderstand what conditions they’re really preparing for.

Myth 2: “You need extreme winter clothing”

Many travelers assume they need expedition-level gear just to survive Iceland, which leads to overpacking and overspending. In reality, what matters most is layering properly, not wearing the heaviest gear possible. Waterproof and windproof layers are far more important than bulky items. Dressing smartly, not excessively, makes travel easier, more comfortable, and more flexible.

Myth 3: “Winter driving is too dangerous for tourists”

Winter driving in Iceland isn’t automatically dangerous, but it does require preparation and realistic expectations. Many visitors drive safely every winter by choosing appropriate vehicles, monitoring weather forecasts, and adjusting their plans when needed. Conditions vary significantly by region and day, which is why flexibility and local awareness matter more than fear. The real risk comes from underestimating the conditions, not from driving itself.

Myth 4: “It’s completely dark in Iceland during winter”

While daylight hours are shorter in winter, Iceland is not in total darkness. Even around the winter solstice, there are several hours of daylight, including long twilight periods. Many travelers are surprised by how usable the day still feels — especially when plans are adjusted to match daylight windows. Understanding how daylight actually works makes winter travel far less intimidating.

Myth 5: “You can only see the Northern Lights in winter”

Winter is the most popular season for Northern Lights viewing, but it’s not the only time they appear. The aurora can be visible in late fall and early spring as well — whenever skies are dark enough and solar activity cooperates. The key factors are darkness, clear skies, and patience, not just the season itself. This myth often causes people to unnecessarily limit their travel options.

The Real Issue: Assumptions, Not Bad Decisions

Most Iceland travel mistakes aren’t about bad decisions, they’re about bad assumptions. When travelers rely on oversimplified advice or viral content, they often plan trips that don’t match reality. Once those assumptions are corrected, Iceland becomes far easier and more enjoyable to explore.

Plan Iceland With Clarity, Not Guesswork

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and feeling overwhelmed by conflicting information, I want to invite you to my Live Iceland Trip Planning Workshop happening on January 31st, 2026. It’s the first workshop of the year and is especially helpful if you’re planning a trip for 2026 or beyond and want a strong head start.

This is a live, interactive workshop where I walk you through how to plan your trip realistically — from driving distances and timing, to choosing the right season, and building an itinerary that actually works.

You’ll also be able to ask me your questions in real time, which is honestly one of the most valuable parts. I also do a giveaway at the end of the workshop, including Iceland-related prizes. One of those prizes is a one-on-one video trip consultation with me, which is usually fully booked since I only open a few slots each year.

If you want clarity, confidence, and a solid plan instead of stress, you can find all the details and sign up using the link in the show notes or here
https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/iceland-trip-planning-workshop

Random Fact of the Episode

Winter can be very dry in Iceland. I know that sounds strange since we often some sort of precipitation, like rain or snow, but the air is dry and that can wreak havoc on your skin. If you are prone to having dryness, make sure you double up on your moisturizer when you are here.

Icelandic Word of the Episode

Goðsögn – myth

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The post 5 Iceland Travel Myths – Winter Edition appeared first on All Things Iceland.

Iceland Is Small But Here’s Why That’s Misleading

Jewells Chambers — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 17:26:41 +0000

If you’ve ever looked at a map of Iceland and thought, “Oh wow, it’s tiny — we can totally see everything,” you are not alone.

I hear this all the time. And honestly? It makes sense. Iceland looks small on a map, but traveling through it is a very different experience.

I’m going to explain why Iceland being ‘small’ is actually misleading, and how that misunderstanding causes a lot of travelers to overpack their itineraries, underestimate drive times, and end up more stressed than they expected.

How Map Illusion Makes Iceland's Size Confusing

Yes, Iceland is about the size of Kentucky. But unlike many places, almost all travel happens on a single main road, and that road isn’t a straight highway from point A to point B.

Driving in Iceland involves:

Winding roads
One-lane bridges
Changing weather
Sudden stops because… well… waterfalls, sheep, and stunning landscapes

For example, Reykjavík to Vík doesn’t look far, but that drive alone can take 2.5 to 3 hours, and that’s without stopping. And no one ever drives Iceland without stopping.

Now add:

Limited daylight in winter
Weather delays
Gravel roads
Fatigue from constant visual stimulation

Suddenly, “just one more stop” becomes the thing that breaks your day.

This is where travelers get tripped up — they plan based on distance, not time.

I’ve seen itineraries that say: “Golden Circle in the morning, South Coast in the afternoon.”

Technically? Possible.
Realistically? Exhausting.

I Learned the Hard Way

Even after living in Iceland for years, I still plan conservatively. Not because I can’t do more, but because I’ve learned the hard way. There have been a few times when I stuffed my itinerary so much that I felt tired, stressed, and annoyed. Traveling felt more like a chore than an adventure.

How to Realistically Plan a Trip to Iceland That is Personalized for You

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and feeling overwhelmed by all the information out there, I want to invite you to my Live Iceland Trip Planning Workshop happening on January 31st, 2026. It is the first one of this year and is extremely helpful for getting a head start on planning your trip in Iceland for 2026 and beyond.

This is a live, interactive workshop where I help you understand how to plan your trip realistically, from driving distances and timing, to choosing the right season, and building an itinerary that actually works.

You’ll also be able to ask me your questions in real time, which is honestly one of the most valuable parts. I also do a giveaway of Iceland related prizes at the end of the workshop. One prize is a one-one video consultation with me, which is normally all booked up because I have few slots open for that throughout the year.

If you want clarity, confidence, and a solid plan instead of stress, here are is where you can secure your spot for the live workshop.

Random Fact of the Episode

The total length of the ring road or route 1 is 1,322 kilometres (821 mi), making it the longest ring road in Europe. It connects the majority of towns together in the most densely populated areas of the country.

Icelandic Word of the Episode

Tími (tee-mi) — Time

A perfect reminder that in Iceland, planning by time, not distance, is what makes or breaks a trip.

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The post Iceland Is Small But Here’s Why That’s Misleading appeared first on All Things Iceland.

Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Iceland Obsessed Friend

Jewells Chambers — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 21:34:33 +0000

If you’re searching for the perfect Christmas gift for that Iceland-obsessed friend in your life, I’ve got you covered. As someone who lives in Iceland and shares all things Icelandic year-round, I’ve rounded up a curated list of meaningful, cozy, and delicious gifts that will make any Iceland lover light up this holiday season.

Here are some wonderful Iceland-inspired ideas (links included):

1. A Traditional Icelandic Sweater (Lopapeysa)

Nothing says “I love Iceland” quite like a beautifully hand-knit lopapeysa. Made from Icelandic wool, it’s warm, breathable, and naturally water-resistant. Plus, each pattern carries a piece of Icelandic heritage—making it a functional and sentimental gift.

2. Jólaöl – Icelandic Christmas Ale

This seasonal favorite ale is only available around the holidays and has a comforting malt-forward flavor that Icelanders adore. It’s a festive, fun, and very Icelandic way to toast the season.

3. Icelandic Chocolate

Iceland’s chocolate makers craft incredibly smooth and flavorful treats, often using local ingredients. Whether it’s classic milk chocolate or artisanal small-batch bars, this gift never fails to impress sweet-toothed Iceland enthusiasts.

4. Iceland Christmas-Themed Mugs

Perfect for cozy winter mornings, these mugs let your Iceland-loving friend enjoy their coffee or tea with a little nod to their favorite country. They’re great for holiday decorating too!

5. Icelandic Coffee Blends

Coffee culture is strong in Iceland, and local roasters create rich, aromatic blends inspired by the island’s landscapes and traditions. It’s a thoughtful gift for anyone who starts their day with a warm cup in hand.

6. Icelandic Beer & Spirits

From craft beers to unique Icelandic spirits like Brennivín, these beverages offer a fun taste of Iceland’s brewing and distilling traditions. It’s a great way to share a little Icelandic cheer from afar.

7. A Book by an Icelandic Author

Iceland punches far above its weight in literature! Whether your friend loves mysteries, folklore, poetry, or Icelandic sagas, gifting a book from a local author is a beautiful way to connect them to Iceland’s storytelling roots.

8. Outerwear from an Icelandic Brand

Icelanders know how to stay warm, dry, and stylish in unpredictable weather. Jackets, hats, and other outerwear from local brands, like 66 North, make incredible gifts—practical, high-quality, and authentically Icelandic.

9. A Music Record from a Local Icelandic Artist

Music is a huge part of Icelandic culture, and gifting a vinyl record or album from a local artist is a beautiful way to share the country’s creative spirit. Whether it’s ethereal vocals, indie rock, contemporary pop, or traditional Icelandic sounds, this gift connects your friend to Iceland through artistry and emotion.

Random Fact of the Episode

It’s my first Christmas as a mom and I’m so excited!

Icelandic Word of the Episode

Today’s Icelandic word is: “Jólagjöf” (yo-la-gyöv) — which means “Christmas gift.” You’ll hear Icelanders using this word everywhere in December. So now, when you’re picking out that perfect jólagjöf for your Iceland-obsessed friend, you can throw in a little Icelandic too.

I hope this episode sparks some great ideas for thoughtful, meaningful Christmas gifts inspired by Iceland. If you want links to any of the items I mentioned, check the show notes for this episode at allthingsiceland.com/iceland-christmas-gift-ideas

If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe, leave a review, or share it with someone who also loves Iceland. And of course, you can follow me on social media @allthingsiceland for more Icelandic content, tips, and inspiration.

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The post Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Iceland Obsessed Friend appeared first on All Things Iceland.

A Pioneering Icelandic Actress – Aldís Amah Hamilton

Jewells Chambers — Sat, 13 Sep 2025 11:27:32 +0000

Aldís Amah Hamilton is a trailblazing Icelandic actress, writer, and cultural icon. Born in Germany and raised in Reykjavík, she has starred in hit shows like The Valhalla Murders, Netflix’s Katla, and co-created the gripping series Black Sands. In 2019, she made history as the first woman of color to embody the Fjallkonan, Iceland’s national symbol on Independence Day in Reykjavík, which is the largest celebration and is televised around the country.

Beyond the screen, Aldís lends her voice to video games like Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II and Echoes of the End, and leads as chair of the Vegan Association of Iceland—advocating for plant-based living while shaping Iceland’s cultural landscape.

Save Big When You Stay in Reykjavík

The “In bed with” series is sponsored by Center Hotels and the interviews are recording at one of their hotels while I chat with my guests in a bed. They have 9 hotels in the center of Reykjavik and each of them is unique. To save 25% on your stay with Center Hotels use my code ATI25.

The Previous Interview I did with Aldís Amah Years Ago

I was very fortunate to interveiw Aldís Amah Hamilton years before her acting career took off. Learn more about her childhood in Iceland by checking out that interview here – https://allthingsiceland.com/aldis-amah-biracial-iceland-interview/

Some of the Topics Aldís Amah and I Spoke About During the Interview

Breaking barriers in the Icelandic acting world
Making history as the Fjallkonan
Life as a vegan and her role in Iceland’s vegan community
What drives her authenticity on and off screen

Live Iceland Trip Planning Workshop

On Saturday, October 4th, 2025, I'm hosting a Live Iceland Trip Planning Workshop. Get local expertise to help cut through confusion and plan your trip with ease.

Click Here

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The post A Pioneering Icelandic Actress – Aldís Amah Hamilton appeared first on All Things Iceland.

3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Iceland for the First Time

Jewells Chambers — Sun, 07 Sep 2025 12:05:56 +0000

If I could go back to my very first trip to Iceland in 2013, knowing what I know now after living here for over nine years and traveling extensively around the country, there are three major things I would do differently. And I think these are going to help you as you’re planning your own adventure here.

1. Understanding how Daylight Hours Impact Travel Plans in Iceland

When I came here for the first time, I knew the days were shorter in winter, but I wasn’t prepared for how short they were. Imagine only having four hours of daylight in December, with the sun rising around 11 a.m. That completely changes how much you can see and do in a day. Had I planned with that in mind, I could’ve maximized my time so much better.

2. Take Driving Distances around Iceland in to Consideration While Planning

This one surprised me the most. Iceland looks small on a map compared to other countries, but trust me, it’s not as quick to get around as you think. For example, the stunning Stuðlagil canyon in East Iceland? It’s about a seven-and-a-half-hour drive from Reykjavík. That’s just one of the hundreds of incredible places you might want to see. If you don’t account for drive times, you’ll either be rushed or miss out on places you were hoping to experience.

3. Building Flexibility into Your Plan

Icelandic weather can change dramatically no matter the season. A severe windstorm or heavy snow could shut down access to an area, which means your plans may need to pivot. The good news is, with the right approach, you can build in alternatives, so your trip is still amazing even if the weather forces you to adjust.

Expert Help for Your Planning Your Trip to Iceland

Now, these are just a few of the things I’ll be diving into in my Iceland Trip Planning Workshop happening on October 4th. In this one-hour live, interactive session, I’ll walk you through a proven framework for creating your own 5-day itinerary in Iceland—without spending hours scrolling blogs and piecing together random tips from social media.

In just one hour, you will:
Cut through the confusion and know exactly where to start
Learn a proven framework for planning any 5-day Iceland trip
Get insider tips from someone who actually lives in and travels around Iceland
Walk away with practical steps you can put into action immediately

What's included in the Live Iceland Trip Planning Workshop

A one-hour live, interactive planning session with me
Replay access for up to 16 days afterward
Practical steps to build an itinerary that fits your personal travel style
Fun giveaways of Iceland-related prizes during the live session
Plus, a 15% discount code for My Iceland Map, which has over 300 of my personal recommendations of what to do and see around the country

Use this link to save your seat at the workshop – https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/iceland-trip-planning-workshop

And because I love to reward action-takers, the first 50 people to register will get 15% off the workshop price with the code “Save15”.

So if you’ve been dreaming of Iceland but feel overwhelmed with where to start, this workshop will save you time, stress, and confusion—and help you make the most out of your trip.

Random Fact of the Episode

I had no idea at the time in 2013 that I would for sure move to Iceland but I do know that the visit left such a profound impact on me that I was adamant about visiting again in June of 2014.

Icelandic Word of the Episode

Námskeið – course or in this case I am using it for workshop, such as the Iceland Trip Planning Workshop

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

The post 3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Iceland for the First Time appeared first on All Things Iceland.

More Than Music: Iceland’s Pop Icon Páll Óskar on Life, Love & Legacy

Jewells Chambers — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 22:55:48 +0000

Since bursting onto the scene in 1993, Páll Óskar—also known as Paul Oscar—has been turning heads, moving hips, and breaking boundaries. He’s not just a singer. He’s a performer, a provocateur, a fearless icon who has never shied away from being exactly who he is—openly gay, genre-bending, and unapologetically fabulous.

And let me tell you, he’s not slowing down anytime soon. His music and style have evolved over the decades, but his bold spirit and commitment to authenticity have never wavered. Whether he’s belting it out with the Iceland Symphony Orchestra or dancing down Reykjavík’s Laugavegur during Pride on a sparkling unicorn float (yes, really!), Páll brings all the drama in the best way possible.

Save Big When You Stay in Reykjavík, Iceland

This episode is sponsored by Center Hotels, who is also a proud sponsor of Pride in Reykjavík.

To save big when you stay in any of their 9 hotels, use code ATI25 for 25% off.

Some of the Topics Páll Óskar and I Discussed during the Interview

The attitude towards artists in Iceland
His incredibly talented Family
Why trends spreads so quickly in Iceland
His family’s response after coming out in the 80s
Reconciling with his father after not being accepted as Gay
The change in Iceland toward the LGBTQ+ community
Being an artist and an activist in a small society
The pressure of having a famous older sibling
Owing Donna Summer & African Americans his whole life
Páll Óskar’s idea of the perfect Pride Parade
The Grindr scandal
Why representation matters in all forms
Páll Óskar’s Controversial Eurovision Performance
His advice for emerging artists

Check out Páll Óskar's Music

If you want to dance to awesome Icelandic pop music spanning from the 90s until present day, check out Páll Óskar’s music here.

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The post More Than Music: Iceland’s Pop Icon Páll Óskar on Life, Love & Legacy appeared first on All Things Iceland.

Is This Iceland’s Best-Kept Secret Stay? – Harmony Lodge Tour

Jewells Chambers — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 16:38:24 +0000

I recently stayed at Harmony Lodge, and let me tell you… it blew me away.

If the idea of relaxing in a private sauna and hot tub, surrounded by Icelandic nature — and away from the tourist crowds — sounds like a dream, then keep listening. I’ll also be sharing an exclusive discount you can use to save up to 25% on your own stay at Harmony Lodge.

My Stay at Harmony Lodge:

Nestled in the serene South Icelandic countryside, this incredible place is just 10 minutes from Seljalandsfoss, one of the most famous waterfalls in the country. Despite being so close to big attractions, it feels completely remote. You won’t hear cars. You won’t see crowds. You’re just surrounded by open land, mossy hills, and stunning views.

Each lodge is built with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, giving you panoramic views of the landscape. From the moment I stepped inside, I felt like I had entered a warm, cozy bubble where I could completely unwind. The design is minimal yet luxurious — Scandinavian style with Icelandic charm.

And get this — every lodge comes with its own private sauna and hot tub. I honestly don’t think I’ve ever felt so relaxed after a day of exploring. Sitting in the hot tub at sunset with the fresh Icelandic air around me and the quiet of nature all around… It’s the kind of peaceful you can’t describe — you have to experience it.

Perfect Base for Exploring the South Coast:

Another thing I loved is how Harmony Lodge strikes the perfect balance: peaceful seclusion, but super close to the major sites.

From the lodge, you’re:

10 minutes from Seljalandsfoss
30 minutes from Skógafoss
Just over an hour from Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Close to Þórsmörk, Eyjafjallajökull, and many more iconic stops.

You can easily explore during the day, then come back to complete privacy and calm — no busy hotels, no noisy hallways, no stress.

Special Discount to save on Harmony Lodge for All Things Iceland Listeners:

Now, here’s the exciting part — I have an exclusive discount for All Things Iceland listeners and followers!

Use code JEWELLS10 at checkout to save 10% on your stay at Harmony Lodge.

Even better — if you book two nights or more for a stay between now and August 31st, 2025, you can combine my 10% code with their current 15% discount. That’s 25% off total!

The discount code is valid until July 31st, 2025, and you can book for any stay up until December 31st, 2025.

Just go to: https://harmonyretreatlodge.com
And enter JEWELLS10 at checkout.

Why Harmony Lodge Might Be Right for You

Whether you’re visiting Iceland for the first time, or you’ve been here before, staying at Harmony Lodge is such a special experience. It’s perfect for:

Couples on a romantic getaway
Travelers looking to unplug and relax
Nature lovers and photographers
And anyone who wants to experience Iceland in a deeper, more tranquil way

And I think we all deserve a little luxury and stillness sometimes — especially in a country as beautiful as this.

If you end up staying there, please let me know what you think! I’d love to hear about your experience.

Random Fact of the Episode

The ferry to the Westman Island is just a short drive from the lodge. On a clear day, you can even see the islands from Harmony lodge which is awesome. The 50-minute ferry ride to Vestmannaeyja is totally worth it, especially in the summer.

Heimaey is such a fun and special place to visit. You can easily drive around the island and do different activities in just one day. I highly recommend adding this island to your itinerary.

Icelandic Word of the Episode

jafnvægi – harmony

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The post Is This Iceland’s Best-Kept Secret Stay? – Harmony Lodge Tour appeared first on All Things Iceland.

Why My Life in Iceland Will Never Be the Same

Jewells Chambers — Mon, 09 Jun 2025 17:37:57 +0000

I have some deeply personal and exciting news to share with you today…

I’m pregnant!

My mind is still blown that there is a tiny human growing inside of me. It’s been such a surreal, emotional, and beautiful experience. And honestly, it’s made me fall in love with this country in a whole new way.

This journey has already taught me so much — about Iceland’s healthcare system, the incredible prenatal care here, and yes, even the costs and cultural norms around pregnancy. So I’ll be sharing periodic pregnancy updates right here on the podcast, and also on YouTube, Instagram, and my other social channels. If you’re curious about what it’s like to be pregnant in Iceland — from ultrasounds to maternity leave to navigating it all as a foreigner — stay tuned.

I just hit the 20-week mark, which means I’m officially halfway!

How I am Celebrating Being 20 Weeks Pregnant

To celebrate this life-changing milestone with you — my amazing community — I’m offering 25% off The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland for a limited time. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another magical adventure, this guide is packed with tips to make your Iceland visit smoother, richer, and more meaningful.

Use the code june25 at checkout to get 25% off!

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Thank you for being part of this journey with me — and now with us. Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

The post Why My Life in Iceland Will Never Be the Same appeared first on All Things Iceland.