Akureyri and Northern Iceland

Dr Mary Travelbest Guide

Today’s Destination is: Akureyri and Northern Iceland

Today’s Misstep- My hostel was self-service, and someone was in my bed.

Travel Advice: Be on time if you are on a tour.

FAQ: How do I navigate the city bus system when I don’t speak the language?

Response: I traveled around the world for 90 days, and most of the time, I did not speak the language of that country. I had some challenges riding the bus in some cities; for example, Reykjavik, Iceland, was a minor disaster. You can use travel apps like Rome to Rio for bus or train travel guidance. You'll be able to get to the station early so that you can ask other people about the timing of the bus. In Goa, India, I waited at an unmarked bus station, but it never came, so I took a chance with a motorcycle taxi. Later that day, I waited at another bus station and was unsure where the bus would go, left or right. No one spoke my language. I finally got on my first of 4 buses to my destination. In hindsight, a taxi would have been a better option had one been available. Most of the time, you will get on the right bus, and you will be able to get to your destination. If you’re not in a hurry, even better. Enjoy the experience and travel light.

Today’s destination: Akureyri and Northern Iceland

On my around-the-world trip, I had planned to drive the Ring Road in Iceland for 7 days, the final destination on a 90-day adventure. After many months of planning and reserving a car rental, I canceled with about 2 weeks' notice and decided to fly to the northern part of Iceland for a 4-day trip instead.

I bought a round-trip ticket to Akureyri, and the airport to get there was tiny, so small that there was no security screening for passengers. There were about 40 people on the plane.

Once I landed, I discovered there was no bus service to town, as it was not profitable. I hitched a ride to the cruise ship terminal with some airline pilots from Denmark who were with Viking Cruises whom I met on the plane. The terminal for boats was much busier than the one for planes. Five colossal cruise ships—mega-ships—were docked in town. I met a cruise ship passenger, Kelly, from Long Beach, California, sitting on a bench. She was retired, single, and had no kids. She broke her ankle, and walking the stairs is challenging for her now. She was sweet to meet.

The town has only 20,000 residents.

When the cruise ships left town, the city became peaceful and relaxed.

What did I do those days? It was a great adventure, as I had booked a hostel near a bus stop and Netto grocery store. I took a day trip to Lake Myvatn, the fourth-largest lake in the country. We saw the Godafoss, the waterfall of the Gods. I explored some caves and volcanic areas from afar. While there, I witnessed a long-distance run of 100 kilometers. The run starts at midnight, and I could watch the runners up close and even be at the finish line for several of them. How exciting. I also enjoyed the public pools with the locals every day I could. I felt like a local and explored the hikes and neighborhoods on the city bus.

https://www.visitakureyri.is/en/see-and-do/events-festivals/sulur-vertical

Today’s Misstep: My hostel was self-service, and someone was in my bed.

In other words, there were no administrative people there at all.

When I arrived, someone was sleeping in my bed. That was disturbing because there was no one to ask for help. The person was sound asleep and sick, and they would not move to another bed. I had five other roommates, but I did not want to take one of their bunks. So, I went swimming in a nearby hot tub instead and relaxed.

That night, I sorted it all out. The other roommates, who were from Germany and China, were kind and friendly, which made it all worth it.

Today’s Travel Advice- If on a tour, be on time.

You may need to hitchhike if you miss your guided bus tour, so don’t be late. The driver may need to pick up passengers at another stop or drop off others. You can’t keep them waiting, so synch your alarm to return to the tour when needed.

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