We didn’t schedule anything the first day. I was a bit disgruntled when Ron woke me at 9:30 so we wouldn’t miss breakfast- and when I saw the breakfast I appreciated it. This was a typical European hotel buffet- good crusty bread, cheeses (including Camembert and bleu), yogurt, fruits and muesli in addition to bacon and eggs. Two uniquely Icelandic additions: a bottle of fish oil with spoons for taking your daily dosage, and two kinds of pickled fish. I never could bring myself to try pickled fish at that hour of the morning.
Our hotel was in an area that was mostly residential but we soon found how convenient it was to all the main attractions. Our first stop was the Hallgrimskirkja, which can be seen from just about everywhere. It was commissioned in 1937 but construction didn't start till 1945. It was finally finished in 1986. It was named after Hallgrimur Petersson, a prolific Icelandic hymn writer. The nave was closed that day due to a rehearsal for an upcoming concert, but we had a great walk through the area and a good first day exploring the city.
 |
| . |
The weather was mostly cloudy, with temperatures in the 50s (Fahrenheit) and occasional rain. We expected that, and it didn't stop the natives, either. They were always out walking, bicycling and shopping no matter what. They also managed to make their own color on grey days, whether with paint or flowers.
 |
| We saw a lot of people with cameras focused on this doorway. |
 |
| This couple, outside a souvenir store, was a popular subject for photos. |
After Ron settled into the room for a rest, I asked the front desk staff where I could find the nearest geothermically-heated public pool. The hotel didn’t have a Fitness Center. Who needs a Fitness Center when you have access to a uncrowded, indoor Olympic-sized pool with people speaking Icelandic all around you for less than $5? This was definitely Europe; you were required to shower without your suit before using the pool in a shower room with no doors on the stalls. I do not have pictures. There were signs threatening dire consequences if you used a camera in the locker room and trust me, it was mostly not something you’d want to see.
The weather was mostly cloudy, with temperatures in the 50s (Fahrenheit) and occasional rain. We expected that, and it didn't stop the natives, either. They were always out walking, bicycling and shopping no matter what. They also managed to make their own color on grey days, whether with paint or flowers.
No comments:
Post a Comment