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Want to feel like you are exploring the earth for the first time? Visit Reykjavik, Iceland – it's wonderful for so many reasons. If you have an adventurous spirit or are just nostalgic for pure, fresh air, this is the place for you!
This is not a bustling metropolis, but there are a number of options when it comes to lodging. I'm recommending the Center Hotel Thingholt because of its location, fairly reasonable price and modern Scandinavian décor. They have 52 guestrooms from standard rooms to loft suites with coffee makers, trouser presses, mini-fridge and hair dryers. There is free wi-fi in the public areas and for a surcharge; they offer an airport shuttle, which is a really nice amenity.
Located on a side street, you are within walking distance to shops, restaurants and the Historic Center. Don't let the austere exterior distract you, it's contemporary and inviting on the inside.
Iceland is for exploring, so you will not be spending a lot of time in your room. However, you will be happy to nestle in under those fluffy down comforters after a long day of sightseeing and touring.
For me, the number one thing to start and end your time in Iceland is to visit the Blue Lagoon, located a few minutes from the airport. The rich, geothermal sea water, combined with their spa treatments and massages, will leave you feeling at least 20 years younger. You are required to shower before and after entering the Lagoon and the water is renewed every 2 days. They have a bar, restaurant and cafe and offer massages right in the water. Www.bluelagoon.com
As I mentioned, there are a lot of activities and sightseeing trips – one not to miss is the Golden Circle Tour, where you will see the Hot Springs and famous Gullfoss Falls – be sure and wear hiking shoes and watch your step!
Also, visit the National Park where you can actually see where the American and Eurasian tectonic plates are falling apart. Another fun adventure is to ride the Icelandic horses – they are small and gentle and you get to see more of the countryside.
There are golf courses in the area and if you are craving a local experience, contact my@friendiniceland.com. They can hook you up to dine with locals or be a farmer for a day.
If shopping is your thing, there are two malls, Smaralind, located in the heart of Reykjavik and Kringlan, which is bigger and located east of the city center. There are lots of small shops near your hotel and check out the local woolens – Iceland has a lot of sheep!
Do not miss Hallgrimskirkja Church, the main landmark that you can see throughout the city and the largest church in Iceland.
All of this activity will make you hungry, so try out Restaurant Fjalakotturinn right in the center of town. Here is where you can feast on local foods such as whale carpaccio, Icelandic lamb and the freshest salmon that will ever cross your lips.
All of this fresh air will make you sleepy, so head back to the Center Hotel Thingholt for a quick night cap in their cozy bar – try to get there for Happy Hour.
Feel free to drink the water straight from the tap – it's as pure as you can get. Enjoy!
Website: www.centerhotels.com
Rating: 
June 20, 2023
