Iceland, called the land of fire and snow. It may not look like much on the map, but reaching from sea to mountains, the land of this island is unlike any other. The mountains are capped with snow, and the thermal vents throw steam high into the chilly air.
I had heard that Iceland was beautiful. I have seen some of the scenery in various shows and movies (Sense8, Secret Life of Walter Mitty). It looked very nice.
One of the reasons I wanted to use the IcelandAir free layover was to experience this beauty. I thought I was prepared for Iceland. The thing is, Iceland is really beautiful. You think you can be prepared. You aren’t. The rocks rise stark against the sky, but somehow the vibrant green moss clings, softens. The thermal vents steam the air, the mineral deposits around them a fan of oranges, tans, greens, and browns. The snow accents the peaks, coldly forbidding. As one who grew up in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains, I tell you truly that this land takes my breath away.
Iceland is relentlessly beautiful. You may drive a short way from the city, and marvel over the scenery. You think perhaps you are growing accustomed to the land. Your heart is seeped in it, there will be no sudden crescendo of new vistas. And then you round the corner, and there it is again. The beauty of the place rushes at you, catching you unaware. There is a thickening of your throat, a catch in your breath. The crisp air fills your nose, the wild scent of the place all you can smell. Your eyelids grow too small for this sensation, and there is the moisture on your cheeks again. Is it tears? Is it the waterfall before you? It is the place, immersing you in itself, expressing in your reaction.
Iceland is relentlessly beautiful. Be wary, should you go there.
Wherever you are, Be There 