Seemed to take the ship a long time to get to Reykjavik, two days and two nights at sea, or was it three days? I've lost track of time. We were all happy to see the city at first light, docking at around 7am. Our days have been gray and wet and often windy -- this city welcomed us in the same manner. We were prepared with our layers of clothes and rain gear (or at least I think we were set). Iceland in August has high temps in the low 50's, with low's in the high 40's. Grossly different than what any of us is used to in August!
Good morning!
We dodged drops getting off the ship for immigration stamps ...
... as well as getting off the shuttle bus at the world famous Harpa concert hall, with its distinctive colored glass façade inspired by Iceland's basalt landscape. Stunningly beautiful building, as you can see. The opening concert was held on May 4, 2011, so it's relatively new.
Almost 3-D/ish, and to us, it was reminiscent of Sydney's Opera House in its use of shapes.
We kept on moving, not spending much time inside.
Outside it was fantastical, too.
After Harpa, we set off on foot (dodging drippy drops) for a Reykjavik look-see, not having any idea where exactly we were going, but it would be hard to get lost if the water is always visible. Sometimes it isn't important to know your exact destination.
We ended up actually locating our hotel (where we have reservations beginning tomorrow). This statue is across from the hotel. Nannie was posing for Bubba's camera, so I asked Jimmy to stand in for this one! Win-win!
Our Midgardur Hotel is on Laugavegur (street? road?) in Central Reykjavik, with lots of nearby shops and restaurants, which is good for us, as we can walk to find dinner each night. We'll be staying in Reykjavik for six nights, and have lots of touring planned. We've seen a number of city murals already. We put quite a few miles on our feet today.
Nope, we didn't each buy a polar bear!
We are wearing masks to ward off colds.
After our Out and About walkabout, we returned to Insignia for one last sleepover. Tomorrow morning, we need to be ashore by nine, and then we're on our own. What a lovely cruise we had, Oceania, and we thank you. Time to go ....
I love your blogs. Larry and I will be in Reykjavik beginning on August 27th for a self-planned ring road trek. Our daughter and son will be with us. Please let us know your favorite place to eat in town. We will only be there for a day. Can't wait to see what you find to do.
ReplyDeleteLinda, I'll email you when we get to Boston (next week).
DeleteWow. All dressed up again. Jimmy, you are looking very handsome all dressed up. All of you look great. Do you dress up for dinner every night? There is something to be said for it. Is anyone getting homesick yet? On our trips abroad I’m good for about 14 days max.
ReplyDeleteNo, we didn't dress for dinner every night, just a couple of special occasions, which was really nice. No homesick people yet, but we'll be glad to see you guys in a few days!
ReplyDeleteGlad you enjoyed your cruise on Insignia. {Erin}
ReplyDelete