• Iceland

    The South Coast of Iceland: Highlights and Attractions

    The South Coast of Iceland is something out of a fairy tale. With its lush vegetation, its fields of purple lupins, its black sand beaches and its misty waterfalls, its spectacular landscapes are a photographer’s dream. Both familiar and otherworldly, Iceland’s coastal landscape at times reminded me of my home in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. And yet other times, I was convinced that I had just set foot on the moon. The area is desolate and treeless, yet also grassy and green—giving it the unique position of looking both lush…

  • Iceland

    Driving the Golden Circle in Iceland

    The Golden Circle offers a snapshot of Iceland’s most dramatic scenic wonders. A popular day trip from Reykjavik, it features thunderous waterfalls, spouting geysers, crater lakes, geothermal pools, and wide open roads. In the summer of 2014, I spent a short layover in Iceland for work. My brief visit consisted of walking the streets of Reykjavik and relaxing in the Blue Lagoon. When I left Iceland a mere 24 hours after my arrival, I vowed to return in order to explore the Golden Circle’s volcanic scenery. So when I finally…

  • Iceland

    The Blue Lagoon: Visiting Iceland’s Natural Spa on a Layover

    Overpriced, overcrowded and overrun with tourists. Iceland’s Blue Lagoon is all these things. But it is also tranquil, therapeutic and overwhelmingly beautiful. I visited the Blue Lagoon on my twenty-four hour Reykjavik layover, after spending the morning meandering along the colorful streets of Iceland’s capital. Since I knew I was going to forego sleeping for a few hours upon my arrival, I figured pairing my fast-paced morning with a relaxing evening would be the perfect way to maximize my layover, while minimizing the exhaustion I often feel when deciding to…