For The Love of Travel

Floated past the Latrabjarg cliff, 14 kms long and 440m high, nesting place to 40 % of the world’s Razorbills population. For centuries, men used to lower themselves down the cliff in breeding season, to collect the eggs, which were a part of the diet, along with the birds themselves. AND….I saw a PUFFIN!!

Visited Flatey Island, one of the largest islands in the Breidafjord, and was an important trading post during the Middle Ages. A monastery was founded there in 1172, which made the centre of culture and education in. Iceland at this time.  While the monastery has been moved to a different location, a church built in 1926 with a wonderful mural by the artist Baltasar ( a Spaniard holding Icelandic citizenship), is still visited. The tiny village hamlet still has a few residents, but most people visit in summer holidays.

 

Took a walk around the old town visiting the Hallgrimskirkja Cathedral with its 10 metre tower which provides scenic views over the city.

Joined up with my shipmates for a buffet lunch, and we were soon off to experience the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa is one of the most visited attractions in Iceland. The spa is located in a lava field in Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Boarded the ship , had a safety drill with life jackets and marshalled at the lifeboats…….and we then we supped being entertained by Henrik, the ships Hotel Manager.

After 30 hours of flying across the world, decided to see a theatre performance advertised in Icelandic Air’s mag….”How to become Icelandic in 60 minutes”…. Thought it could prove useful in our travels which start tomorrow aboard SS Lindblad…..visited the gorgeous HARPA concert hall and convention centre, with stunning architecture and facilities – an arty shot below looking through some of its window. Very funny performance by Erd ( good Viking name)! Have come away with a couple of useful phrases. Then, on the way to my hotel, saw this pic on the side of a building in an alley….