A very dangerous section. They charge to enter this area. In the USA, liability concerns would demand
that chains be erected or the hike be closed, in our opinion.
Meantime 'our hero' elects to stay grounded and have a smoke.
The concept of relativity comes into play regarding the weather, in Iceland. One learns to change
one's perspective. Living in Southern California means the norm is sunshine mostly, and little rain.
Whereas this is not ideal in itself, one tends to think of it as typical. We learned quickly that when
it was not raining and blowing in this part of the world, it was good weather. Should the sun trickle
through then it's party time. We may be negative, but having a function like an outdoor wedding might
be considered a trifle risky.
Okay, just kidding. Positioned at the low but steep peak, although tricky to get there.
Bleak but attractive, we think.
A view of Mount Hildarfjall, many different landscapes in a small area. It seems small but as they
say: 'Looks can be deceiving.' The trail is near vertical at times.
Accommodation is at a premium in the country, perhaps mainly in summer. A couple of times, especially when
the weather looked bleak, we tested the pricing at hotels, boarding houses and even homeless lots. Prices
are expensive particularly when one evaluates what the service covers. The price of gas is nearly double the US
level although electricity is cheap according to the locals. The internet is superb and is probably the best we
have used anywhere in the world. Someone mentioned to us that the Icelanders take the best from Europe and
America—sounds smart. We offered them our president at no charge. As we said: They're a wise bunch.
Bubbling waters, aromas to go with egg sandwiches, desolation. Something tells us to leave the area.
A view from the summit at this high volume tourist attraction although few people on the slopes.
The final section up to the top after turning inwards from the very slippery edge.
We found it interesting how kindly they take to compliments of their country. Whenever we had something
good to say about Iceland or its people, the person took the comment personally and expressed heartfelt appreciation.
Perhaps when there's less than a 400,000 populace, you are one big family. We come from a country (RSA) that experienced
and still continues to suffer from a high-level of crime. We mention this as we have an awareness of crime levels
and areas that appear dangerous. Anyway, we can't say we have ever been in a place in which we felt safer, both
our person and possessions. It is a wonderful feeling. The naïveté within us always seems to wonder why the biggest
threat to anyone is our fellow man.
After all the bubbling, smelling and near-exploding, cooling off at Godafoss a little later.
Meantime, back at lunch, we think these fellows will develop neck problems as they age, if not sooner.
The Blue Lagoon, another example of discharges from the bowels of the earth.
We'd like to think we'll return to Iceland to visit. This is one of many places we love yet one
in which we'd not like to live. For people who like the outdoors, natural wonders and the challenges, this is
a country to explore. There were many occasions in which we were on our own in what appeared to be the middle
of nowhere. It felt exhilarating, always exciting and at times, spiritual, a personal feeling.
Cheers,
Jenni and Jeffrey
1 comment:
really beautiful, your pictures are fantastic
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