Looking for something a little more low key, the following day we headed into Reykjavik. Having signed up for a “free” city tour (tips are expected), we met our tour guide, Sara, and a dozen or so other tourists in front of the Icelandic Parliament building. As a native Icelander with roots going back to the Vikings, Sara had a friendly but no-nonsense approach, which seemed to be the norm for locals. Politics were brought up frequently, and she wasn’t shy about letting us know her position on things. She was staunchly proud of their cradle to grave system. Their tax rate is around 50%, but all medical and educational needs are met. High school continues until age 20, with a 99% graduation rate. All students must be proficient in 4 languages before they are allowed to graduate, with English language lessons beginning at age 6.
Swimming pools and hot springs are popular year-round. Sara admitted to enjoying her neighborhood facility about 5 times a week. She had even met actor Ryan Gosling, and some of the cast from the popular Game of Thrones series, while soaking. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the opportunity to try out this experience before leaving.
Leading us through the city, we visited the oldest house, the Prime Minister’s office, City Hall, The Pond, and a world-famous hot dog trailer near the city center. The same family has been serving hot dogs to locals and tourists since 1937. The unique dog is made primarily from lamb, with beef and pork added. It is then served with sweet brown mustard, ketchup, fried onions, raw onions, and a remoulade sauce on a heated bun. Long lines are a testament to the popularity of this unique dog, and Alan concurred with the consensus. On completion of the tour, we continued to traverse on our own.
The harbor here appeared to be more commercial in nature, but there were several businesses offering whale tours and such. Just about any article about the city includes a photo of the unusual Hallgrímskirkja church. A statue of Leif Erikson (the true discoverer of North America in 1000 AD) stands in front of the church. Normally open to the public, the church was closed for a funeral during our visit. Another architectural highlight in the city is the Harpa concert hall. Located along the waterfront, the building has the appearance of an iceberg, when the light hits on it just right. Operas, concerts, plays, and daily films displaying the majesty of Iceland are offered at the center.
Zero rain had been in the day’s forecast, but a combination of cold, rain, and wind moved in late afternoon. Unprepared for the weather shift, the inclement conditions made exploring difficult, so we ended our day. On to the South Coast next.
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