HOW TO BE ICELANDIC IN 60 MINUTES AND A WALKABOUT DAY

 HOW TO BECOME ICELANDIC IN 60 MINUTES:

During our many visits here to Reykjavik I had been hearing of this one man comedy show titled “How to Become Icelandic in 60 Minutes”. On our past trips it for various reasons we were not able to see this presentation. Kinda like seeing the aurora. Tonight we finally got to see “HOW TO BECOME ICELANDIC IN 60 MINUTES”.

We had purchased tickets on our day of arrival at the Harpa Box Office. The Harpa is the grand theater in Reykjavik and there are many small theaters there within. 

 
  After a day of walking about in the Troll Weather, we had made ourselves a simple dinner of soup, bread and cheese in the room before walking over to the HARPA.

There is a very nice restaurant inside the Harpa where we had drinks. I am not a foo foo fruity beer person but decided to try a local brewery’s seasonal beer. The Borg Brugghús has a mango beer and, much to my delight, it was excellent. Lynn had her ginger beer. 

 



Now to the show- Brilliant, Excellent, Informative, Hilarious, and not to be missed. For me, I think parts of the show were more funny as we have experienced Iceland and it’s people over the years. There were those “yes, so true, ahh ha” moments. 

I very much appreciated his condensing the Icelandic Sagas (History of Iceland) down to 60 seconds. Brilliant, and I have spent months reading them wishing I had a time line and name flow chart. 

For you Adventures by Disney (ABD) folks, they will not take you to see this as it is for a mature audience. Personally I took no offense. 



 

When we came out of the theater the clouds were breaking up and there was a very nice sunset over the harbor area. 

Amazingly our walk back to our room took us right past Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur, yes a hot dog was procured. 

 



We had a very little glimpse of the sun on our arrival and we had not seen it again till the sunset this evening. The forecast is for partially cloudy skies and a temp in the low 50’s. I hope to have a nice Reykjavik Photo Walkabout. 

Walkabout Day

Today we awoke to clear skies and wind. It is nice to see the sun. 

After breakfast we are out the door and off to visit the Elf Stone. Here we asked to take more photos and are allowed to do so.

 

 

We then wound our way around to the pond by City Hall to see some of the local birds. 

 



Next we make our way to Hallgrimskirkja, the landmark church of Reykjavik. The inside was closed as it is Sunday morning and there is some work going on the exterior of the building. Should you visit this church and can go inside, do so.  The interior is simple yet beautiful and the views from the bell tour are quite nice. 


               Lief the Lucky as he is referred to in the Sagas

Across the street from the Hallgrimskirkja is the Einar Jónsson Museum. Einar Jónsson is one of Iceland’s most celebrated artists and is responsible for some groundbreaking sculptures. Many of his works are found all over Reykjavik. I am sure if you have been here you have seen his works. 

Behind the Museum one can find a garden with many of his works. A joy to walk about and visit and it seems never to be busy. 



                    Thor Wrestles With Old Age, I can relate

                                            A Prayer
 

Heading down hill, we had planned to catch a bus to Laugardalslaug, our pool and hot dog stand. 

Being Sunday, we were too early for the buses to be running so we walked to the Sólfar or Sun Voyager. 

The Sun Voyager is a sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason, located next to the Sæbraut road in Reykjavík, Iceland. Sun Voyager is described as a dreamboat, or an ode to the Sun. The artist intended it to convey the promise of undiscovered territory, a dream of hope, progress and freedom. 

 



Next stop was the Harpa concert hall. There are public restrooms in the basement. 

Now the Strætó busses are running. We had thought about visiting a bakery for some coffee, but decided to make our way to Laugardalslaug and visit the Reykjavik  Botanic Garden as there is a coffee shop there. 

Alas, we found the coffee shop to be closed so we enjoyed some of the snacks we carry and a bottle of water. 

Remember do not buy bottled water in Iceland as the tap water is the best in the world. 



We wandered along the paths in the garden taking some photos for a camera club project we have.

 

  

Back at our pool, it is time for a swim and a hot dog. We have decided to call the birds who hang out at the hot dog stand, “Hot Dog Stand Birds” , they are actually a Starling.



                                     There was a line

                                        Hot Dog Bird

                                     Waiting to Attack
 

We needed some fresh bread and more licorice to take home, so off to the Bonus Store in the Old Harbor Area. I should mention there is a rather good ice cream shop across from the Maritime Museum. Yes, we stopped for a small cone, Lynn had salted caramel and I had orange. 

                                     I like the Bonus Stores



We the went to Bonus and got our bread and licorice and walked back to the B&B. 

We will have some soup and bread and the maybe head out for the sunset.
 

 
   

THE TROLL WEATHER CONTINUES:

THE TROLL WEATHER CONTINUES: 

                                   An Elf Stone in Reykjavik 

                        A typical street in the area of our lodging.

            Here is the Treasure B&B we are very happy with this property and the location is great.


After breakfast we took a short walk to an Elf Stone. This is where Elves live. Many people in Iceland believe in the Huldifolk (hidden People) so here is about the Huldufolk.

Huldufolk translates to hidden people, and they usually live inside of rocks and in a parallel world invisible to our eyes. However, legend has it that children can see them right away. The Huldufolk have the ability or power to appear to whom they deem appropriate; that is why some adults declared having had encounters with them.

The origin of these folk creatures can be traced back to Viking Times. However, it is interesting to note that the tradition of the Huldufolk as such exists only in Iceland and the Faroe Islands, and few wonder why.

There are statistics from 2007 confirming that 62% of Icelanders believe in elves.

Decisions have been made to stop road construction, change the layout of roads, or move stones based on elves’ existence. But as the Road Administration of Iceland manager has expressed, the decision was made based on the respect of our tradition and culture, not on the belief of elves itself.

There are areas where, for some reason, machines always stop working, batteries run out, and phenomena that could be classified as paranormal occur. That is where many believe that it is an area inhabited by elves. A person is then authorized to speak with them, ask for permission, make agreements, or change plans. There is a street in Kopavogur, a municipality adjacent to Reykjavik,  with a street called Álfavegur or “Road of the elves” in English.

On the side of this road, there is an immense stone that was removed from the road after tough negotiations with the elves. The stone has its own street number. Now, if the elves still live there or not is something that we cannot confirm.



 

We headed out and made our way to the bus stop and took the #14 bus to the pool. Today the saltwater tub was open as they were cleaning it yesterday. SOOOOOO RELAXING the pools are.

Today the hot dog place down town was a little busy as indicated by the line.

Here in Reykjavik the sidewalks are heated with the geothermal water, so no need to shovel in the winter. 



After our pool time it is Hot Dog Time. We then took the bus back to the city to go to Kolaportið. This is a flea market of sorts where many different items can be found. There are books, sweaters, jewelry, used clothes, odd antiques, t-shirts and some local food. 

We wandered among the stalls and nothing grabbed our need to have impulse.

 

We then wandered the streets past the city pond making our way back to the room. 



Tonight we will be going to The Harpa to see a one person comedy show called “How to be Icelandic in 60 Minutes”. This production has been around for a few years but we have never been able to catch it till now. All reviews are very positive and it is billed as educational and funny. Stand by for a review tomorrow.
.  
 

Troll Weather Morning and All Day

                       Troll Weather Morning and All Day

The skies were overcast and a steady rain fell. As such we  had a great breakfast here at Treasure B&B. Our breakfast was skyr (Icelandic yogurt), fruit, cold cuts and cheese, avocado, tomato, green pepper, hard boiled eggs, and a local brown multi grain bread with homemade jams. A perfect way to start the day. 



Back in the room, I laid down and had a very nice long nap. Waking up, we decided to head out for a swim and hot dog. OK, OK, OK, we are creatures of habit. 

                                    

Yes Troll Weather for in Iceland there is no Bad Weather, Just Poor Clothes

Walking to the bus stop we ran into a Reykjavik City Walks Tour. It was being lead by Martin who is the founder of Reykjavik City Walks. He looked at me and I looked at him, we pointed and said hi again. He asked if we had bought a house here in Iceland. We said no and he offered to help us find one. Well it is an idea. It is fun to see people we have interacted with over the years here in Iceland. We parted wishing each other well till next time. FYI City Walks Reykjavik is a great way to get an introduction to Iceland, and I highly recommend their offerings. The owner and founder is Martin, a History Scholar here in Reykjavik. 



 We dropped off a post card to be sent to the states and I am sure we will beat it home.

We took the #14 bus to our pool and had a hot dog before swimming. There was a break in business at the hot dog stand so we had a nice chat with the lady on duty. 



  

 

 

          There are waterfalls everywhere in Iceland, even at the pool

Then a swim, sadly today they were cleaning the salt water pool so most of our soaking was in the 40C and 42C tubs. Almost too relaxing. 



We then took the bus back to the shopping area on Skolavorousugur Street. Our destination was Reykjavik Street Food. 



 

                    Hallgrímskirkja a notable Reykjavik Landmark

                                Kjötsúpa and Plokkfiskur, 

 

                                Nice Seating Area Upstairs
 

At Reykjavik Street Food you will find many local dishes. I had the Kjötsúpa, which  is a simple Icelandic lamb soup made from braising cuts of lamb or mutton and root vegetables. 

Lynn had the Icelandic Fish Stew, a traditional dish made by mixing mashed fish, béchamel sauce, and potatoes. Called Plokkfiskur, it is a popular dish for cold weather, and is an awesome way to try the flavors of Iceland. 

Should we return there the fish and chips look rather nice. This is a great place for hearty food at a reasonable price. 



In the Old Harbor are of Reykjavik there is a bakery called Brikk. We learned the owner of Brikk had opened a new location called BakaBaka. We found it and it is located on Bankastræti. The building used to be an upscale Icelandic restaurant ( we had dined there when visiting with Nat Geo). Their baked goods looked great and we bought some Kleinur (Icelandic doughnuts). These were really good and had a hint of citrus. The staff was very friendly and they recommended their pizza. This location has only been open a few months. 

 

We next walked back toward our B&B looking for an item to make a Christmas ornament to commemorate this trip. Thus far nothing has jumped out inspiring us.

 

We then stopped at The Drunk Rabbit Irish Pub. This seems to be our local when here and they have a good happy hour from 1200 to 1900. They do offer food that we have yet to try. Fish and chips for about 3000 ISK, as well as pizza for the same price. 

 

 



Always a friendly crowd there and one usually strikes up a conversation with other patrons. It seems to be a place for many expats from the EU.

The weather forecast is for overcast skies and continued rain. This may be breaking up tomorrow. 

Back to our room for some bread and cheese and maybe some Skyr, before calling it a night. 



When this constant rain stops I will get the good camera out for some photos. We will definitely make it to the Botanical Gardens and visit an elf stone.   

OFF TO THE LAND OF FIRE AND ICE AND HULDUFOLK.

 

As most of our trips usually start,  The Boys were dropped off at Puppy Camp. Yes they get very excited about Puppy Camp. Then we drove to Denver and stayed overnight as we typically fly out early. 



This trip we are on United getting miles rather than a nonstop IcelandAir flight. Surprised it was a bit cheaper. This flight goes from Denver to Newark and then to Keflavik. We were lucky and got an upgrade to first on the first leg, but not the long haul. Both flights were very very full and both were late. The type of aircraft from EWR to KEF was changed at the last minute, so new seats. 



Any how, we made it and even got just a little sleep. I did peak our the window and did not see any Aurora. 

 

 Troll Weather Arrival

Iceland Tap water is great no need to buy fancy water. 



Upon arrival, all went well through Immigration and Customs and straight to the Fly Bus, our transport into Reykjavik. The Fly Bus is a good form of transport to the general area of ones lodging. We had about a 3-4 block walk to our accommodations. This trip took a bit longer than normal and was almost three hours, normally it is just a couple. There was good bit of traffic and the transfer at the BSI (big bus stop) seemed longer than normal. Oh well no big deal we have all day.


Our bus stop is City Hall and we had a 3-4 block walk to the Treasure B&B. We did help a couple from up state NY find their hotel. 



We arrived and met our on duty host and learned our room was ready. We moved right in and repacked our bags for the day, and were off to get a hot dog and have a swim and  some things done in preparation for our stay. 



Our garden entrance to our room 

We like our room

First stop was Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur for a hot dog, check. Next it was off to the Harpa (City theater etc venue) to procure tickets for a comedy show Saturday night, check. Then via bus to our favorite pool Laugardalslaug. A nice soak in the 40C salt water pool was nice as we kept wanting to fall asleep. 



 

After our swim, we did feel somewhat rejuvenated and stopped at  Pylsuvagninn Laugardal, yes for another hot dog. This stand just out side our favorite pool is one we really like. New on the menu are Crispy Jalapeños. Well yes I tried one and Lynn had a regular with everything. It was good but I will stick with regular with everything, the way to go. 



From there we took the bus back, stopping part way to shop for some staples at the Bonus Store. Here we picked up some food for our meals, and then got the bus to city center towards our B&B. The bus driver missed our stop and we had to do a bit of back tracking, it is all good. The back track allowed us to stop at the 10-11 store and get a bus pass and a large bottle of Appelsin (Iceland orange soda). 



Then back to the room where we are attempting to stay awake as I write this.   

Not much has been planned for this trip so it will unfold as it unfolds.

Old West Balloon Festival 2022

 OLD WEST BALLOON FESTIVAL 2022



Here we are in Gering Nebraska for the 2022 Old West Balloon Festival. My main goal is to photograph the Mass Ascensions on August 12th and 13th, as well as the night glow on August 13th. 

 

I volunteer to do this simply because I enjoy balloon events. That said if the balloon bug ever bites you there are balloon events all over the country and they are always looking for volunteers. If you volunteer as part of a balloon crew you might just get a ride. 



This event coincides with a national competition where about 50 balloons will be competing all week long on events which test their flying skills. 

Friday and Saturday the Mass Ascensions lift off from the Mitchell Airfield located just south of Mitchell Nebraska. The National competitors will launch from a site and fly into Mitchell Field for their competition on those two mornings.

 
I have been told there will be about 80 balloons total this year. I recognize many of them from Albuquerque as well as some pilots and crew members. One of the fun things about ballooning.

 

I would highly speculate next years event will be roughly the same time of year. 

For folks in Cheyenne, it is about 90 miles over here  and a very nice event. There are other things going on like a craft fair, Winner Dog races, corn hole tournament and more. 



One thing about this event is over the days of activities the launch and glow locations move all around Scotts Bluff County. 

Here is their website for more Information and next years planning.  https://theoldwestballoonfest.com/

I’ll post a few photos here and will have more on my web sites . 

Soggy Moose Travel 

http://soggymoosetravel.blogspot.com/

Soggy Moose Photography
https://soggymoosephoto.smugmug.com/

https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/11-scott-hughes