Home again

     It was a relatively easy plane ride home.  The plane had many empty seats so there were only two folks in each row of three, giving us a lot more room.  But it was hot on the plane and I was happy to get off.  Going through Customs was quick and easy for Americans.  Much more thorough than I remember for foreigners including fingerprints and palm prints.  We didn't buy much and weren't carrying any produce, rocks, or valuables so there was no search of our luggage, just a check of our passports.  We found our suitcases undamaged and were very happy to see Arik and Kellen waiting for us.

     We had a great time and this style of vacation was perfect for us. The Nordic Visitor travel agent made it easy.  She set up the route so we had plenty time to drive and to sight see.  We stayed in places that were both interesting and comfortable.  Our little SUV worked out perfectly and we spent about $200 for diesel gas.  

    We saw a couple cruise ships in the harbor.  The Iceland line takes you around the island in ten days.  You don't have to drive and you get to stay in the same room every night so you don't have to move luggage around.  Lots of other folks took tours on big buses and stopped at all the interesting sites.  I'm sure the bus travelers heard a lot of interesting details about the sites and didn't have to spend each evening looking stuff up on the Internet.  We also talked to folks who made all the reservations on their own.  Different methods for different types of travelers.

    We didn't do all the usual Iceland stuff.  We didn't walk on the glacier (my knees can hardly manage the rocky trails).  We didn't swim in the Blue Lagoon or any of the thermal baths.  It was in the 40's and windy much of the time and the sulphur smell really was overwhelming to me.  We didn't try the national liquor which is called the Black Death, nor eat pickled shark, dried cod, or whale meat. 

     We saw some amazing scenery and lots of tall waterfalls.  I added quite a few new birds to my birdwatching list.  We learned a lot about the Vikings and their travels.  We gained a huge respect for the Icelandic people and their history.  

    We didn't get sick or have bad days.  We slept well in most of the many beds.  We saw light in the sky at 11:30 pm and 1 am.  Our cheapest dinner was a 12" pizza, eaten off paper plates, with water in paper cups.  It cost $21.  Our most expensive dinner was soup, cod and vegetables, with brownies and whipped cream for dessert.  It cost $150.  We must say that we just about had a personal chef as there were only two couples at dinner that night.
     It felt wonderful to have a whirlpool bath and climb in my own bed.  I miss the fresh tasting Icelandic water, strong coffee, and a full buffet for breakfast.  I look forward to seeing my other three grandchildren today.  We carried them in our hearts all through Iceland.  If you think you want to go to Iceland we have lots of materials and advice.  Give us a call!