You couldn’t have come at a better time, really. Iceland is at the peak of summer and the people, the city and the nature surrounding it never look better.
The people of Reykjavík tend to look pretty good most of the time, but this time of year always adds a little je-ne-sais-quoi. The extra hours of sunlight keep the Reykjavíkians energised and pumped full of vitamin D, gone are the lumpy winter coats, replaced instead by stylish summer clothing, the warm weather is putting an extra spring in their steps and to top it all off, the tan and freckle fairies are in town, keeping everyone looking extra pretty and youthful.
The city is also putting its best foot forward. Not only are parks and flowerbeds all around the city bursting with colours and life, but the social life is booming as well. Austurvöllur square, in front of the parliament building, fills up with people as soon as the sun comes out, the swimming pools are oases of lovely geothermal water, and the nightlife is one-of-a-kind in the bright Reykjavík summer nights.
Last but not least, Iceland’s nature, all around the country is never more beautiful, or for that matter, more accessible than right now. Hiking in Iceland is an experience not to be missed, the landscape is breathtaking, the air is fresh, and there’s nothing better than drinking clear mountain water straight from the stream when you get thirsty. However, it’s also very important not to throw caution to the wind. Icelandic nature is wild and untamed, meaning that if you’re not careful, you can get hurt. Always make sure that someone knows where you’re going and when you plan on coming back and check out Ice-SAR’s website, www.safetravel.is. Proper gear is also important and please, remember that Icelandic weather is very unreliable, even at the height of summer.
What are you waiting for, go out and enjoy yourself!