Iceland - Reykjavik and chasing the Northern Lights

Reykjavik is one of my all-time favourite winter destinations. So far, I have ventured there 4 times on mini breaks firstly going with my husband, then my best friend, third time a group of us and this January I took my Mum for her 80th Birthday. Each visit has been super special and has touched my heart.
Very easy to get to with flights from many airports.
I fly from Manchester with Iceland Air and easy jet. Both very good and take just over 2 hours.
TOP TIP – When transferring from the airport the transfer company take you to the coach station and you transfer to a smaller bus which takes you into the city and to NEAR your hotel.
TOP TIP – the transfer desk will check which hotel you are staying and give you a colour – this is for the second bus, so they drop you as close to your hotel as possible.
I love the Centre hotel Arnavol – the location is fabulous. The hotel is very modern and Scandi.
TOP TIP – stay on the 12 days before Christmas and every morning one of the naughty Boys leaves you a present hanging on your hotel room door!

BLUE LAGOON – a must! Especially wonderful in winter due to the cold of the air on your head whilst in hot water having a silica facemask and glass of wine!
NORTHERN LIGHTS – everyone wants to see them and they are stunning- I’ve tried 3 times and successful once! Will never forget!
TOP TIP – sit on the bus as long as possible and stay warm – take your own thermos of hot chocolate to avoid the queue and add in some brandy! The lights take time to show so be patient!

GAME of THRONES – locations – as a huge fan this was amazing!

WALKING AND FOOD TOUR – some real insights into the culture and some intriguing food to taste.

HIRE A CAR – its easy to drive in Iceland as its not busy. All the cars are geared up for the snow and ice, we drove to the Southern coast and did a circuit that follows the
GOLDEN CIRCLE
It was interesting, and we stopped off at a Laugarvatn Fontana for a dip in their thermal pools and lunch. Much smaller than the Blue Lagoon, smaller but more of a wilderness vibe.
There are many, many more day tours you can do – these are just ones that I have really enjoyed and highly recommend.

TOP TIP – some lovely places to eat and drink. Whilst prices can be high there are lots of really good reasonably priced bars and restaurants. Some excellent craft beer bars and the Big Lebowski is a very popular bar!

TOP TIP – Very easy to wander round the city centre and there are some amazing sculptures and eclectic street art.
TOP TIP – shopping, there are many shops with amazing gift ideas, especially good if you go before Christmas and need different present ideas.

DID YOU KNOW – Iceland has their own breed of horse, they are small but sturdy and they have an extra gait! Between the trot and canter. If you enjoy horse riding, then I would highly recommend you book a day of exploring the landscape on horseback.

FUTURE TRIPS - I really want to explore Iceland in the summer months to experience the MIDNIGHT SUN and explore more of the islands landscape which is unique.