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Sales Executive Josephine Ball gets out and about in Iceland. Find out what she got up to…
Josephine Ball, Iceland Sales Executive at Discover the World talks about what makes Iceland Europe’s most unique holiday destination. She travelled in March around Iceland on a special trip with a detailed itinerary to get to know the land of fire and ice. The route she followed is closest to our ‘Journey to the Centre of the Earth’ holiday, but don’t forget we can also tailor your Iceland holiday to suit you. |
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Josie by Seljalandsfoss waterfall
© Discover the World |
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What was your first impression of Iceland when you arrived?
The geological features were the most prominent thing – our transfer from Keflavik took us along roads flanked by these immense lava fields and our driver pointed out the area where the two tectonic plates meet, which was pretty impressive.
What was the best thing about your trip to Iceland?
Apart from the Pylser (the tastiest hotdogs ever!), I would say experiencing such varied exciting weather and amazing scenery. We even found ourselves in blizzard conditions, a great story to tell once we made it back safe and sound!
How would you describe Iceland to a friend?
Full of varied scenery, from lengths of stunning black sand contrasted with the white foamy sea, to barren lava fields, to immensely powerful waterfalls to the fantastic geysers. There’s a real outdoorsy feel to Iceland, with some great restaurants and bars to chill out in the evenings.
What was your favourite excursion and why?
Our southern tour was fabulous – it was our first experience of the ‘real’ Iceland and offered a super array of everything you could possibly imagine. Snowmobiling is a must for those with a sense of adventure, and the Golden Circle is a great trip for those wanting to experience the more unique features of Iceland like the geysers.
How would you describe Reykjavik?
The square is quaint, and somehow manages to maintain its character but with a modern feel. There’s an impressive selection of restaurants and bars and the nightlife is pretty lively. We checked out the Ice Bar which was cool (excuse the pun) and Café Oliver which was very classy … until you reached the dance floor, and then like every dance space became as cheesy as ever, but I’d recommend it for a dance and a laugh!
How would you describe the weather in Iceland?
Erm … snowy! It was minus 9 up north, but because you’re so wrapped up, you don’t actually feel the cold so much. Yes, snowy, that’s all I can say really!
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Travelling with Julie and Misha |
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Snowmobiling on Myrdalsjokull |
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Standing by Skogarfoss waterfall |
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With Misha by Gulfoss waterfall |
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Why would you recommend going on holiday to Iceland?
It offers varied scenery and wildlife, so for anyone outdoorsy and interested in nature it’s a great destination. The city break is good for those without the time to explore the whole island in depth, but who want to see the main features. It’s a buzzy city, so the hotels centred around the square would appeal for those looking for a lively time, and there’s a good selection of hotels positioned around the city for those not wishing to be woken at 2am by the ‘good-timers’!
Do you want to visit Iceland again, and if so, why?
Yes. I would love to see Myvatn – in the sunshine, cloud, rain, anything … just to see beyond our car bonnet! The same applies for all views we missed, especially in Snaefelsnesss. I would also like to go in the winter again to hopefully see the northern lights.
What kind of people do you think would enjoy a holiday to Iceland?
A range of people of all ages and interests for the city break, and a range of age groups, but those with more special interests (nature, hiking etc) for the longer trips.
Was there a particular hotel you liked and if so why?
I was really impressed with Hotel Reynhlid – it has such a swish interior, with a cosy feel. The food was awesome. My favourite city hotel was the Plaza – again modern but with great character and friendly staff.
Do you have any other comments about your holiday in Iceland?
Despite the adverse weather, we had great fun. The snow made things more of an adventure and the hotels we stayed in were brilliant. I’d definitely like to go back!
Josie by Seljalandsfoss waterfall © Discover the World
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