Intro....

As my travels in recent years had progressively reduced the number of European countries I had not visited,
I had become conscious that amongst some of the smaller and/or more difficult European countries to
access, there was one particular country I still had to visit – and was really looking forward to my travels
there whenever they happened.
I had recently visited my last but one country in Europe and so was left with this last European country
where I had not visited – and so it was time to go to Iceland!
Not only was it my last European country, but after several checks of the nations I had visited worldwide and despite the political arguments over some ‘countries’ claims to be independent, I genuinely believed I could state that this last European nation was indeed my 100th worldwide – and so it was with an extra chunk of excitement I set off on my travels there.

Sunday 05/Oct/2014

I guess my journey started in the very early hours of the morning when I left home at 01:45 – although in
reality, the day had started early on the Saturday morning when I got out of bed! So, even though my day
had been long by 01:45 on the Sunday morning I was only part way through it!
Sadly because I was travelling at that time to Manchester airport, a bus service ferried a dozen or so
passengers from Leeds to Huddersfield due to maintenance works on the rail track. At Huddersfield we
transferred to the train where a similar number of people joined it and we were soon en route to Manchester
airport. Having arrived there at 04:10, I had around a couple of hours to wait once I had cleared security
etc.
As I waited for my flight, a watery sun appeared and lit the airport surrounds. I was soon on my flight – and
surprised to see what appeared to be a full plane load of passengers. Around 2.5 hours later we landed at
Keflavik – the international airport around 40kms from Reykjavik. As I approached passport control, I
trusted that there would be no problem entering the country as no visa or LOI was required – and I was not
aware of Iceland being in any form of dispute with another country I had visited (all the sort of situations
that can cause problems).
I held out my passport. The officer took it from me, had a brief glance at my passport and then at me and
returned my passport to me saying “Welcome”. I was in my 100th country – and briefly reflected on a
number of things as I walked along the corridors to customs and the exit.
I was soon on a transfer bus and making my way along the quiet roads (which I was pleased to see as I was
planning driving in Iceland) towards Reykjavik. Once there, it was an easy walk from the downtown bus
arrival point along the main street in Reykjavik – to my hotel.
I dropped my bag and was soon out taking my first look at Iceland. The streets were quieter than I expected
– but it was still early on a Sunday morning. I had my first look at restaurant menus and prices – and shops
too! Over the next few hours I continued to walk around. Reykjavik centre is relatively small. Even though it
is the capital, it only has a population of around 170,000. I checked out where several places were that I
would need and I found the main church towering above Reykjavik and also where the whale watch boats
went from etc.

I came across a local market and enjoyed a coffee whilst watching the Reykjavik world go by, until mid-
afternoon when I returned to the hotel to check-in. I spent a couple of hours getting organised and looking

forward to the evening which I had planned.
Early evening, I went for another shortish walk before returning downtown to the coach drop-off area. Here,
after having my booking checked etc., I boarded the coach and took my seat (at the front) and crossed all my
fingers and toes – because I was about to start a mystery tour that took us to hopefully see the Northern
Lights!
The coach soon filled up with passengers kitted out in thermals, scarves, hats and gloves etc. – and we
departed on time. The guide told us a little about the northern lights and that the skies were expected to be

clear. It was also the company policy to give a complimentary ticket for the same trip anytime in the next 2 years should we not see the lights.
We travelled out of Reykjavik and into the dark countryside. After around one hour – just turning 21:00, the guide told us we would be stopping at this area – where it was good for viewing. There was also a small cafe/shop and toilets. We could walk in the surrounding area – it was safe.
With much enthusiasm everyone jumped of the coach, cameras – big and small – at the ready and walked
the short distance to a good viewing area. The moon was behind us and gave a little light – enough to just
gently light the snow on the mountains in front of us. The evening air was very cold and the strong breeze
made it feel much colder. Due to the clarity of the skies, many, many stars could clearly be seen – but as yet
no Northern Lights! Time passed with many groups chatting and telling tales of their travels within Iceland
– whilst others were tempted by the warmth of the cafe and a hot chocolate drink.
Another hour passed and still no lights. Everyone was feeling the cold temperatures by now and I decided a
hot chocolate would complement the cold weather – even if I did drink it with both eyes still firmly fixed to
the skies.
Around 23:15 I noticed the guides appeared to be packing their cameras and maybe reluctantly giving up –
and part of me felt maybe we should give it up – mainly because of the cold. Suddenly, there was a hint of a
slight colour change in part of the sky. Was this what we had been waiting for?
Over the next minute or so a band of pale green light appeared. Everyone became excited and the calls went
out towards those in the cafe. This was what we had been waiting for.
Over the next 30 – 40 minutes, the skies were decorated with various shapes of green light of various
intensity – and it really did feel as though Mother Nature was showing off for us.

Monday 06/Oct/2014
It was already after midnight and the ‘performance’ did subdue somewhat – and the cold was once again
being felt in full force (It was amazing how I forgot how cold I was when the lights were showing!). The
guides said we should now start our return journey to Reykjavik.
Despite the late hour and the cold, I’m sure every passenger had a huge smile on their face as we returned to the centre of Reykjavik. Once there, I was soon in the warmth of my hotel room – shaved, showered and had a sandwich – and reflected on what had been a long, long day (around 44 hours) but a tremendous day in several ways – and I climbed into bed around 02:40 (03:40 UK time) feeling very lucky, grateful and thrilled with the (long) day’s events.
I awoke a little after 08:00 and was soon starting what I hoped would be another good day by showering and
having a coffee for breakfast. The downside of washing/showering in Reykjavik was the water – where if the smell of the sulphur in the water didn’t put you off then the slight slimy deposit it left on your skin did!
Something to get used to and accept.
I was soon out and about seeing more of the centre. I walked to the old harbour – and noticed several places
offering ‘Whale Watching Sea Trips’. I had been considering going on such trip – and so went to make a
booking for the afternoon.
When enquiring at the office, I was told that whilst there was no problem me booking for the trip, the
captain of the boat had asked that all passengers be warned that sea conditions were likely to be rough! So
without hesitation – I booked. It was also pointed out that free anti-seasickness tablets were available.
Time for a walk back into the centre and a coffee for lunch before venturing back to the old harbour to
board the boat. When I arrived there we were informed that weatherproof overalls were available for all
passengers. Despite the eagerness of most passengers to wear these, I declined the offer – seeing as they were
bright red! Instead I donned my Leeds United woolly hat
I was soon on the upper deck as we left the harbour – but the sea was getting progressively rougher the more
we travelled out into the open bay. We were told some of the history and detail of various locations we could
see on land as we sailed to the area where whales and other species were often seen. Once in that location a
few passengers saw 2 or 3 small dolphins but despite the crew members searching from advantaged positions
– no other sightings were forthcoming.
After around 90 minutes of sailing round the area, we were told it was time to start the journey back – but
due to the lack of any real sighting, we would receive a free complimentary ticket valid for the next two

years. However, for me the return journey was the best part of the trip as we had to return and sail against
the wind. The large waves also made their presence felt.
It was great fun holding on and trying to stay on your feet (even if at least one passenger didn’t manage it!),
Riding the waves was a bit like riding a bucking bronco! It shame it had to end – as we returned to the
harbour.
After walking along the sea front for a while, I returned to my hotel. In the evening I went for a walk to find
the hotel where I was staying on my last night in Iceland (as the hotel I was currently in was fully booked
then) before enjoying a chicken meal and retiring to bed.

Tuesday 07/Oct/2014

After my usual early morning routine, I was soon out on what was to be my last full day in Reykjavik. I
visited the Hallgrimskirkja church – probably the main landmark of Reykjavik and a very distinctive design.
I decided to take a trip to the top of the tower (despite my strong dislike of heights!). A lift carrying a
maximum of 6 persons transported us to near the top. How appropriate that they had church organ music
playing in the lift.
We then had to walk up two flights of stairs to the top (maybe they should have had ‘Stairway to Heaven’ by
Led Zeppelin playing there!). Thankfully the open window spaces were secured with bars so it felt much
more secure for people like me!
The views over Reykjavik were most impressive and I was soon busy with my camera until an extremely loud
‘bong’ from the bells just above made me jump out of my skin! This continued with the normal introduction
before striking the time (Why didn’t I go at one o’ clock instead of eleven???)
I had decided to risk the ‘Whale Watching’ trip again and so made my way towards the boat – checking
souvenir shops on my way for that addition to my collection. The weather was rather pleasant and so I was hoping for a better trip in some respects.
Once I’d made my way to the boat and we had left the harbour I was amazed at the difference in conditions
from 24 hours previous. The sea was so calm – almost like a pond! The young lady presenter informed the
passengers that this was the best day they had had weather-wise for several weeks – as it had been awful with so much rain and wind.
We were soon approaching the area – and soon watching dolphins playing on the surface of the water. The passengers were heavily involved shouting each time they spotted something. Suddenly near the dolphins, water spouted into the air – yes it was a whale (Minke Whale) and it was swimming near the surface. Many more dolphins were around – and a second Minke Whale was seen in similar actions to the first one.
The passengers were busy clicking their cameras trying to get images of them all – and the time soon passed
(especially compared to the previous afternoon). On return to the harbour I was happy that I could tick
another item off my wish list – and could go purchase my souvenirs with a smile on my face.
The evening was spent checking out several things on my notebook before going out to enjoy the evening
atmosphere and having a meal. Not too late to bed was the plan too – as I had an early start the following
morning – and a busy day.

Wednesday 08/Oct/2014

My day started bright and early – a little after 06:00 – even if it was still dark outside! I checked out of the
hotel around 06:45 and made my way to the airport coach terminal in the centre of Reykjavik. I was
returning to the airport to pick up my hired car (long story but there were reasons for going back to the
airport for it!). I boarded the bus – which happened to be a minibus – and come departure time I was still
the only passenger!
Around 45 minutes later I arrived at the airport and made the short walk across the car park to the car hire
company where after completing the paperwork etc, I started my car travels. Firstly, I had to head back

towards Reykjavik – where the route was rather busy as it was around 08:30 – but at least driving standards
are good and courteous.
I managed to navigate myself in the right direction and was soon en route towards Thingvellir National
Park. I was happy to see the traffic become less and less and well before the national park I was driving on
almost deserted roads. As I drove into the park I realised why the park was so popular as a sightseeing area
and why visitors were so impressed by it. I stopped to take photographs on a couple of occasions before
continuing along the road towards my next planned destination.
There I was hoping to see something I had never seen before – and something I was looking forward to
tremendously – seeing a real active geyser – Geysir Strokkur in the Haukadalur area of Iceland – and
apparently the geyser where the others get their name from. As I arrived at the area, it was strange to see
steam arising from various areas of the ground. I parked the car and visited the visitors centre first before
then heading towards the main attraction. As I arrived, many people where stood around the geyser with
cameras poised. Suddenly there was a loud ‘Whoosh’ noise – and hot steam and water were sprayed high
into the air.
Disappointed that I had not got my camera ready, I thought I would have to wait some time for the next
‘performance’ – but a few minutes later, another loud ‘Whoosh’ occurred – and I was encouraged that these
appeared to be far more regular than I had anticipated. It was fun trying to capture it on camera – taking
both still shots and video (I was amazed at the number of people there looking very professional with their
long lensed camera and tripods – sadly due to some of the type of places I have visited – and still do – I’ve
felt it far more sensible to have a camera that I can hide in my pocket – else I wouldn’t have a camera
anyway!).
There was a certain amount of fascination with it – and I could have stayed there much longer, but I had a
busy schedule ahead of me and sadly needed to move on – although knowing that my next ‘attraction’ would
also be one for the camera!
I continued my drive along the quiet roads – enjoying the excellent weather of blue skies and sunshine (albeit
autumn type sunshine) and the beautiful scenery. The road signs and directions were easy to understand
(thankfully) and I was soon at my next destination – Gullfoss. As I drove into the parking area, I noticed
several coaches were also parked- and so guessed it was worth seeing. As I approached the stairs leading to
the waterfall – the spray could be seen drifting around in the air. I descended the stairs and the falls came
into view – and whilst for me nothing will compare with Iguazu Falls I saw in South America, one of the
larger falls in Iceland are still very impressive.
Obviously it was time for camera action again – the only problem was taking a picture without getting spray
on the camera lens! I tried my best and realised I would have to wait until I saw the actual images before I
would know – but it was fun trying!
After walking around the area for a while and enjoying the sights, I decided I should continue driving as I
had around 270 kms to drive to reach my next hotel. I drove along the small but quiet roads – admiring the
scenery as best I good whilst driving. Around 45 minutes later I was happy to see that I was now joining
Route 1 – the main road that circles the perimeter of Iceland – towards Vik. Considering this is regarded as
the main road in Iceland, there was virtually no traffic on it – which made for easy driving.
En route I saw several places where I wanted to stop. I pulled up at several places to take photographs but
also decided that I should visit several of them on my return drive to Reykjavik a couple of days later. After
around another couple of hours driving, I was pleased to see I had arrived at Kirkjubaejarlaustu – a small
village around 20 kms before my hotel. I stopped at the little supermarket there (amazing that it had one –
and a little petrol station!) and bought a few supplies.
Continuing my drive I soon reached my hotel – which was in the middle of nowhere as I was aware! After
checking in, I entered my room and was thrilled to see such amazing view from the widow and external door
– which led into a field! After taking a few more pictures I wanted to check a few details about my plans for
the following day. Sadly, my netbook decided to be awkward – and I was unable to boot it up. I wanted to
remove the battery, but realised I had more chance of bumping into a caveman around the area than getting
a screwdriver!
The darkness had fallen and I was aware – and hopeful – that I may see the Northern Lights again. I
periodically peered out of the window to check and after a while was unsure whether I was looking at a
cloud in the dark sky or the beginning of the lights. I fitted my camera to my tripod and ventured out into
the field in the cold wind. As I looked up to the sky, the ‘cloud’ I had seen was turning more green – yes!

Within a short time the sky was active with various formations of the lights. I really needed 2 or 3 cameras to record the images – such were the displays. If the sky had been a dance floor – it would have looked good
with the lights on it
Sadly, I only had the one camera (obviously my mobile camera wouldn’t have the capability to increase the
exposure time enough) but I was making good use of it. In my excitement I was running around the field
trying to locate the best ‘show’ – as some were on the other side of the hotel – and taking the images as best I
could.
I continued until the displays subdued – and then went back into my room for a hot shower and bite to eat. I
also charged my camera from my laptop to help drain the laptop battery – which succeeded – and after a
few ‘technical actions’ I got my netbook up and running – so I quickly checked some of my photographs
before jumping into bed.
What a day this had turned out to be. I was so thrilled at the sights I had seen- and photographed – and
whilst the photographs would remind me of the day’s events, I knew I would never forget them.

Thursday 09/Oct/2014

I awoke just as daylight was breaking and was soon out of bed with camera at the ready to catch some early
morning shots of the sun rising. I stepped outside where the peace was disturbed only by a few birds. The
setting was so tranquil – and I could also now see the mountains I was taken photographs as a background to
the lights the previous evening. Again, I was in a lovely setting.
After preparing myself for the day – the day I had probably been looking forward to most -and enjoying
breakfast, I jumped into the car armed with camera, tripod, woolly hat, gloves, scarf etc.
As the time was a little after 9am, I knew the roads may be busier than normal with it being rush hour! So,
after getting back onto the main Route 1 road the first car to pass me in the opposite direction was 7 minutes
later. This was ‘closely’ followed by a second car another 13 minutes later – yes, two cars in 20 minutes – oh, and I had seen nothing behind or in front of me!
The scenery became breath-taking and of outstanding beauty and I was soon stopping to take photographs
in almost silent surrounds. I was also approaching the glacier areas – and these made for even more
spectacular viewing. How I wish I could have ‘transported’ everyone I knew to that setting – to experience such wonderful sights.
I continued driving – and stopping to take pictures – and around 45 minutes later arrived at what I was
guessing maybe the highlight of my trip. I arrived at Jökulsárlón – a glacial lagoon – where the
Breiðamerkurjökull glacier breaks into icebergs that float into the lagoon.
As I took my first glimpse of it, it took my breath away! The sight was awesome. I manoeuvred the car into
the car park and was soon out checking what time the amphibious vehicle would be sailing in the lagoon. I
paid for my ticket and spent the 20 minutes waiting for the time – just taking in the scenery.
After climbing aboard the vehicle, we soon entered the water and were sailing amongst the icebergs that had
calved from the main glacier. A magical setting. Obviously the camera was in overdrive mode – trying to take so many pictures of the various shapes and sizes of iceberg – and of course I had to have a couple of
photographs of me with this background!
A chunk of ice was brought to the vehicle by a small boat. It was explained that this was 800 years old ice –
and the air bubbles inside was also air that was trapped there 800 years ago. The block was broken into
smaller chunks and passengers offered a piece to suck. I took a piece (it was my lunch!) and sucked on it
gently. Besides being very cold – it tasted remarkably like... ice!
On returning to land, it was time for me to take more photographs of the whole setting. I took the short walk
at the side of the river – under the Route 1 road – and on to the shoreline where a few icebergs had washed
back onto the shore.

I had decided I would continue my drive along Route 1 to Hofn – which was around 75 kms away – but I
needed some diesel and filling stations were very few and far between – and I knew there was one at Hofn.
The drive continued alongside much varied and beautiful scenery and around an hour later I arrived in
Hofn – where I filled up with diesel.
Hofn is an old fishing village – but remarkably had 3 filling stations – and a small Netto supermarket. I
enjoyed a warming hot chocolate in a little cafe down by the harbour before having a short walk around the
harbour and sea front. I did wonder what kind of life these people led – living in such isolated community
and with the harsh weather often engulfing the area.
After around another hour, I was back in the car and starting my return journey – obviously planning to stop
again at Jökulsárlón – and knowing that the lighting levels could be much different with the weakening sun
getting lower and sunset would be approaching by the time I arrived there. I continued my journey eagerly
anticipating my return.
As I approached Jökulsárlón the spray from the Atlantic waves could be seen causing a mist over the land
and my thinking had been correct about the lighting levels. I parked the car again and was soon out taking
more photographs- but this time I was soon attracted to events on the beach where icebergs were being
washed up against the shore and the large Atlantic waves were crashing against them as in an effort to break them up. The weakening watery sun also added to the spectacular scene and again my camera was in full use.
Sadly I noticed my camera battery was getting low but was determined to get every last drop of energy out
of it before resorting to the (excellent) camera on my mobile phone. Thankfully my camera lasted to almost
the end before I took a last few shots with my mobile.
As the light was starting to fade, I very reluctantly decided I should return to the car and start my journey
back to the hotel – knowing that I would probably stop en route to take more photographs of the fading
sunset etc.
As I left the beach I took one final look at the scene – just hoping that it would be imprinted on my mind for
ever.
I was correct about my journey back to the hotel too – with stops for more interesting pictures to be taken in
the fading light. So much so that now my mobile was warning me the battery was getting low! I returned to
the hotel a little after darkness and as I entered my room I just could not believe the scenes and experiences that had overwhelmed me since I left the hotel around 10 hours earlier.
I spent the evening making various backups of my pictures, catching up on my blog and checking for the
Northern Lights (they had a night off!) and obviously taking a sneak look at some of the pictures I had taken
– but mainly reflecting on a day that will live with me for ever.

Friday 10/Oct/2014

Again I awoke as the first glimmer of light was coming from the skies – and again watched the sun rise –
standing out in the field enjoying the setting. I packed ready for departure before having breakfast and again
a little after 9am I was on the road – and although the day would be spent sadly heading back towards
Reykjavik, I wanted to see some of the sights again in the opposite direction that I couldn’t really appreciate
on my return journey the night before due to the failing light and my flat camera battery!
I travelled for around 45 minutes – again stopping for the inevitable photographs until I reached a point
where I decided it really was time to turn round and start heading back towards Reykjavik. I stood – taking
in the scenery – and feeling so humble and grateful for the sights I had experienced the previous few days.
I knew on my return journey that there were several water falls I wanted to stop at – and probably a number
of other places where taking photographs would be too much of an opportunity to miss – but I was also
aware that the day may well be a bit of an anti-climax compared to the previous two days.
The weather was once again beautiful – with the wintery sun brightly shining through my window in the car.
For long periods I drove with the window down – but the car heater on! – as outside temperatures fluctuated
between 3C and 10C. The road was its usual busy self – passing one car every 5 or 10 minutes and having
the long straight road to myself for probably 10 miles or more.

There were still scenes to be photographed and the glaciers en route in the area also made for picturesque
images on my camera.- and I was pleased to photograph Eyjafjallajökull – where the volcanic eruption
occurred in 2010 causing many flights to be cancelled across Europe – I did ask it to behave for a few more
days so I wasn’t stranded on Iceland – although would I have minded too much?
I also stopped at three waterfalls along the way where once again photographers with their large cameras
were busy taken many shots. I climbed up the hillside at one of them to see the view from the top too – not
just of the waterfall – but of the surrounding area too.
As I continued my drive towards Reykjavik, I did notice an increase in traffic – and was soon driving along
with continuous traffic on both sides of the road – something I had become unaccustomed with
Fortunately my route to my hotel wasn’t too difficult and I checked in around 17:30. After checking on my
return flight etc. the following morning I decided to have one last walk around Reykjavik. The main street
was far busier than I had seen previously with most bars and restaurants already looking near full – but so
cosy from the cold streets with their dimmed lighting and candles.
I stopped at a little place where I enjoyed a beef and lamb soup before walking further towards the old
harbour. I saw a coach full of passengers about to head off into the countryside to (hopefully) see the
Northern Lights – and when I got to the harbour the boat was there that I had spent 6 hours in total to see
the whales.
Walking back up the main street I realised this trip was all but over – and was saddened as I am when most
of my travels finish. I returned to my hotel, ensured I was packed and went to bed a little early than normal
due to my early start the following morning.

Saturday 11/Oct/2014

I awoke just after 05:15 – a little before my alarm was due to sound. I quickly showered, dressed and had
coffee – before loading my bag in the car for my 49 km drive to the airport. It was dark. It was cold – and it
was my last hours in Iceland – well, this time at least!
The drive to the airport was the usual quiet one and after returning the car, I had a little time to catch up
with my blog before boarding my flight – where once we were in the sky I started looking at the 1400
photographs on my camera (although these would probably be reduced to around 1000 once I deleted
various ‘accidental’ shots – problems of a touch screen camera – and photographs where dolphins/whales
had disappeared!).
Again part of the time was spent reflecting on what I had seen and what I had experienced and my thoughts
on that could not be put into words.

Review....
As I have probably stated previously, I knew this trip was the 100th nation worldwide that I would be
travelling to. It was also the only country in Europe that I had not visited – and so I was hoping that it would
be a good trip to remember – and maybe even a little bit special.
Well, it was special due to it being my 100th visit and my last country in Europe – but it was far more special
because of the sights I saw and experiences I had.
Yes... I’ve been lucky that I have seen dolphins before – and glaciers, and waterfalls, but to see whales (ok, it
was mostly their backs), the geyser, icebergs and the Northern Lights – well, Mother Nature excelled in
giving me these wonders (and I was so lucky with the weather).
Certainly, this trip – albeit only 6 nights – went into my top few trips, which include such places as Brazil and
China. I was overwhelmed by it all. It was breath-taking and anyone who is thinking they would like to visit
then simply... go!