Iceland

Hiking electric blue tinted glaciers and exploring ice caves are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Ice-caving season goes from mid-October through March.  Photo by Chris Henry
Hiking electric blue tinted glaciers and exploring ice caves are a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Ice-caving season goes from mid-October through March. Photo by Chris Henry

By Maureen Callahan

Consider checking out this European destination in winter. You’ll need to outfit carefully for outdoor activities, but average temperatures are not much different than here. Expect fewer crowds, better prices, and stunning, frosted landscapes. Daylight is sparse this time of year, but there are definite advantages to visiting in the low season.

Reykjavik is a modern capital city with eclectic museums, a varied shopping district and vibrant nightlife. Thorrablot, the mid-winter festival that honors Icelandic heritage and culture, traditionally goes from mid-January to mid-February, making it a festive time to visit.

Iceland, this time of year, isn’t for the casual traveler. But it’s a unique destination, and there are more hours of darkness to see the northern lights!

Reykjavik, Iceland
Photo by Tom Podmore

Sure-footed, sturdy, Icelandic horses transport riders across the lava fields, open water, and black volcanic sands of their native settings. Take a ride on one of these unique animals to get a close look at the island’s desolate, windswept landscapes. Photo by Wesley Gibbs

With about 333,000 speakers, the Icelandic language is unique. Its roots are in Old Norse, a Scandinavian language which predates the Viking era. Photo by Kristina Delp

The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are a spectacular, natural phenomenon. In Icelandic folklore, they are thought to be the spirits of the deceased, who have not yet found a resting place. The country’s latitude makes it an ideal location to see them. Photo by Jonathan Pie

Geothermal pools are heated by hot springs deep within the earth. The Blue Lagoon is open year-round and is an ideal place to warm up after any outdoor activities. Photo by Jeff Sheldon

 

 

 

Author

IMG_4283

Susan Sinderson: Downers Grove Community Adult Day Center Director calls Elmhurst home

Canopy program participants take part in specialized equine therapy through Christine's Dream Equine Program. The program is led by an experienced PATH International-certified instructor and supported by caring volunteers.

Rich Support: York High School Distinguished Alumnus Jerry Rich offers support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder

Hair loss problem after covid search Instagram Post Minimalist -

Is hair loss on your mind? Reclaim Your Crowning Glory

The camaraderie of the volunteers often keeps them involved after their student graduates.

Budding Boosters: York High’s Booster Club sees to the extras for students athletes

Elmhurst Art Museum offers a range of art, from this Captain America Cover by Alex Ross at the Marvelocity exhibit that just concluded, to be followed by Picasso: 50 Years Later.

Down to a Fine Art: Behind the scenes of today’s Elmhurst Art Museum

DuPage County State's Attorney Robert Berlin and DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick

The DuPage County Crime Forensic Science Center aids the criminal justice system of DuPage County

151-Entrance

Making It Better Every Day: The leader who sets the pace

Photo-3-e1694187215332

Elmhurst Running Club 4 on the 4th

IMG_4543

A Tennis Player’s Dream Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club

IMG_4883

Live Music at Elmhurst City Centre

IMG_5249

Movie in the Park

The Arizona Biltmore is chock-full of history and a magnet for notable guests.

Discover Arizona: From Cowboys to Hollywood elite, the American Southwest holds something for everyone