5 things that surprised me during our family’s Iceland vacation

As the pandemic stretched on, our entire family began feeling the itch to get back to the exciting trips we used to enjoy in the “before times.” The summer of 2022 was poised to be that moment.

With a healthy stash of points and miles at the ready, we told both of our kids that they could pick any place in the world and we would do everything in our power to plan an incredible trip there.

Our daughter didn’t need any time to think. Her instant reply: Iceland.

Anyone who has visited Iceland or seen pictures of the country’s natural beauty would be hard-pressed to disagree, as the European destination is home to all kinds of otherworldly sights, including stunning black sand beaches, soothing geothermal spas and the mesmerizing northern lights. It’s no wonder our daughter has had dreams of visiting the Land of Fire and Ice for years.

So, before long, we found ourselves planning a 10-day adventure to Iceland.

While we went into our Iceland trip feeling like we had learned enough from folks who had been there before to be adequately prepared, we were shocked by a number of things we encountered once we arrived. Here are a few surprises we took away from our time in Iceland.

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