Places to Visit

The Hidden Treasure Behind Skógafoss Waterfall – Folklore Friday

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024. Where is there treasure behind Skógafoss waterfall? In Icelandic Legends and Fairy Tales, 1862-64, Jón Árnason (1819–1888) added more details to the story of Þrasi Þórólfsson in Skógar. It is said that Þrasi buried a…

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An Icelandic Canyon Named After a Giantess – Folklore Friday

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024. A Tale of How a Canyon is named after a Giantess Kolugljúfur Canyon gets its name from the legendary giantess Kola, who made her home on a ledge within the gorge. According to local folklore,…

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Is Iceland Splitting in Half? – How Moving Tectonic Plates Impacts the Country

Iceland straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. This unique geographical setting has led to some fascinating geological features and dynamic landscapes. In this episode, I go over the geology a little bit, the main reason why Iceland does not split in two even though the tectonic plates are…

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What It‘s Like to Snorkel Between Continents in Iceland‘s Silfra Fissure

Have you ever imagined swimming between two continents, touching the jagged edges of the earth’s crust beneath crystal-clear water? I had the unforgettable experience of snorkeling in Silfra Fissure, located in the heart of Thingvellir National Park, Iceland. This unique adventure is available all year round, and whether you visit during the chilly embrace of…

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Icelandic Coffee Culture & Unique Cafés to Visit in Reykjavík

Iceland’s coffee culture is – deeply ingrained in the social fabric of Icelandic society. Along with being a drink that perks people up, grabbing a cup of coffee in Iceland is often a social interaction, where the drink is enjoyed in the company of others, many times in cozy settings. This communal aspect is so…

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Skriðuklaustur – A Hidden Monastery Discovered in East Iceland

Today’s episode focuses on the historic site of Skriðuklaustur, which offers a captivating glimpse into Iceland’s rich Icelandic culture, history, and literature. This enchanting destination, nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the Icelandic landscape, serves as a bridge between the past and the present, inviting visitors to explore the layers of stories etched within this…

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Naustahvilft: The Troll Seat in the West Fjords – Folklore Friday

A quick but fascinating Icelandic folklore tale about Naustahvilft. According to the legend, a troll was hurrying home to avoid being turned into stone by the sun that was going to rise soon. She was traveling quickly enough that she was ahead of schedule and was able to stop to rest. The area that she…

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The Famous Trolls of Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach – Folklore Friday

At the famous, beautiful, and dangerous Reynisfjara black sand beach there are three sea stacks clearly visible out in the ocean. They look as though they have popped up out of nowhere but there is a story behind their existence. Legend has it that two trolls were trying to pull a ship to shore during…

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Hallgrímskirkja Church: Reykjavík’s Iconic Architectural Marvel

One of Iceland’s most iconic and breathtaking landmarks is Hallgrímskirkja church. This isn’t just any church; it’s a symbol of Icelandic identity, a fusion of history, and a beautiful architectural design that speaks volumes about the island’s unique character. Later on, in my random fact of the episode, I share who this church is named…

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The Golden Circle: An Ultimate Itinerary on Iceland’s Most Popular Route

Iceland, a land of fire and ice, offers a myriad of awesome routes for tourists to explore attractions, but none as well known as the Golden Circle. This popular tourist route is easily accessible from Reykjavik, and it encapsulates the raw beauty and geological marvels of Iceland. In this comprehensive guide, I will take you…

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