Eliza Reid, Iceland’s First Lady, moved to Iceland 20 years ago for love and has since become an integral part of the nation’s cultural fabric. Here, she shares her favorite ways to enjoy a “chill” Icelandic weekend, highlighting the country’s unique attractions, from public pools to Icelandic literature.
Eliza Reid: From Canada to Iceland
Background
Eliza Reid grew up on a farm in Canada’s Ottawa Valley and studied history at Oxford University. She moved to Iceland after winning a raffle date with Guðni Jóhannesson, who would later become the President of Iceland. Reid, a former freelance writer and editor of Icelandair Stopover in-flight magazine, is also the author of Secrets of the Sprakkar: Iceland’s Extraordinary Women and How They Are Changing the World.
Cultural Influence
Reid has significantly contributed to promoting Iceland’s culture and natural beauty. She served as a UN Special Ambassador for Tourism and speaks fluent Icelandic. Over the years, she has witnessed Iceland’s transformation into a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from across the globe.
Exploring Reykjavík and Akureyri
Best Base for Tourists
Reid advises tourists to base themselves either in Reykjavík or Akureyri. Reykjavík offers the most infrastructure, restaurants, and cultural events, but it can be crowded with tourists. Akureyri, the second-largest city, is less busy and offers excellent winter sports and Northern Lights viewing.
Weather Considerations
The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable. Reid stresses the importance of checking weather forecasts and being prepared to adapt plans due to inclement weather, especially in winter.
Experiencing Icelandic Daily Life: Public Swimming Pools
Authentic Local Experience
Reid highlights the Icelandic tradition of visiting outdoor geothermal swimming pools. These pools are an authentic way to meet locals and experience daily Icelandic life. Iceland boasts over 120 swimming pools, each with unique features like hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms.
Pool Etiquette
Visitors must follow strict shower regimens before entering the pools. Showering in the nude before donning a bathing suit is mandatory due to the low chlorine levels in the water. After swimming, another shower is required before returning to the locker area.
Iceland’s Rich Cultural Scene
Literature and Music Festivals
Reid is a proud supporter of Iceland’s literary and musical culture. Reykjavík is a UNESCO City of Literature, hosting literary festivals and poetry benches. Music festivals and cultural events are held regularly at venues like the Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavík and Hof in Akureyri.
Traditional Events
Fishermen’s Day, celebrated on the first weekend of June, is a traditional Icelandic festival honoring the country’s seafaring culture. The festival features concerts, boat rides, and fishing games, providing a fun and educational experience for families.
Outdoor Adventures: Reykjadalur Hike and Hot River
Volcanic Landscapes
Iceland’s volcanic landscapes offer numerous outdoor activities. Reid recommends the Reykjadalur Valley hike for a true Icelandic experience. This 7km hike from Hveragerði leads to steamy hot springs and mud pools, where visitors can enjoy a warm soak in a natural setting.
Safety Precautions
Unlike tourist attractions like the Blue Lagoon, these natural hot springs are not outfitted for tourism. Visitors must use common sense and practice caution when approaching these spots.
Icelandic Cuisine: Farm-to-Table Delights
Culinary Scene
Iceland’s culinary scene has evolved significantly, with farm-to-table dining becoming increasingly popular. Reid notes the country’s excellent tap water, sourced from natural springs and hardly treated, making it some of the best in the world.
Local Dishes
Classic Icelandic dishes include plokkfiskur, a white fish and potato casserole, and kjötsúpais, a meat soup with lamb, carrots, and turnips. For dessert, skyr, a fat-free, high-protein yoghurt-like cheese, is a local favorite.
Casual Bites
For a quick snack, Reid recommends trying a pylsa, an Icelandic-style hot dog made with lamb, available at hotdog stands and gas stations. These hot dogs can be customized with various toppings like mustard, ketchup, remoulade, fresh chopped onions, or fried onions. Reid’s personal favorite is with mustard and fried onions.
Conclusion
Eliza Reid’s insights provide a unique and personal perspective on experiencing Iceland’s culture, nature, and cuisine. Whether exploring Reykjavík’s vibrant city life, enjoying the tranquility of Akureyri, soaking in geothermal pools, or savoring local delicacies, visitors are sure to find something to love in Iceland. Reid’s journey from Canada to Iceland exemplifies how one can embrace a new culture and contribute to its richness, making Iceland a welcoming and fascinating destination for all.
