Adventurer of the Week: Jay's Fourth Time Around

Welcome to our “Adventurer of the Week” series! Each week we will feature individuals that were inspired to make every moment an experience in Iceland by going out on epic tours with us that allowed them to interact with nature.

This week's installment of our "Adventurer of the Week" series tells the story of Jay who just can’t seem to stop coming back to Iceland. On his fourth and most recent trip, we took him out and he had all this to say. Enjoy!

What motivated you to visit Iceland?

I have always tried to find a place that I can incorporate three major things into a vacation: scenery, peace/serenity, and fun. I love scenic areas, so looking at pictures of the capital, Reykjavik, to the mountainous waterfall, Gulfoss, I knew Iceland would do the trick.

How long was your stay? Did you travel solo or with a group?

My visit lasted 6 days, solo. I always recommend going as a group but there are places you just sometimes want to go and get the feel of nature and peace. Being a flight attendant, I tend to travel solo so no problems happen where someone in the group is unwell and it could take the experience away from everyone. But it's great as a group because you can have fun at the blue lagoon or go out to glacier hike. There's unlimited things you could do solo or with a group.

Which tour did you take and why did you choose it?

I chose the golden circle and magical nights tour. It incorporates two major activities everyone should do if you visit, the aurora and the golden circle. This tour included extra activities that gave me the opportunity to try delicious tomato soups, amazing ice cream straight from the cows, and a nice visit to Fontana spa with dinner afterwards. All the best of Iceland bundled into one day.

What is one thing you would always remember about your tour?

My tour guide, Þorsteinn, was amazing and a wealth of knowledge. Him having a lot of information about all the various areas of the golden circle, hot springs, etc. and put some humor in it as well, which made me enjoy the tour even more. He challenged us to take a dip in the lake behind the Fontana spa: challenge accepted! Also, the people of Iceland are by far the friendliest people I’ve ever came across.

If you had more time in Iceland, what else would you like to see and do?

My bucket list goal is to one day do the entire ring road and include the fjords in it as well. As much as I love to come here now (my next trip will be my 4th) I would love to see Northern Iceland and take my time in the process.

What tips do you have for people who want to visit Iceland?

Do your research on where and when to come and stay. Icelandic weather is ever-changing as I’ve ran into situations where we have had all four seasons in one day. It is crazy, unpredictable weather so pack accordingly and always have a water-resistant shell and pants. Also, have yourself a budget before you go as food and activities can get a little pricey. Last, but not least, enjoy yourself!

What adventure are you off to next? What is your next dream adventure?

Although I will be back in Iceland in February, my dream is to fly and see the Swiss Alps. Also, I would love to do a backpack journey all through Europe! But I just end up keep coming back to Iceland and wouldn't change that at all! Every time I come, it's always jaw-droppingly beautiful.

Jay’s adventure is only one of the many features that make for an unforgettable experience. Book your tour and join us for an excursion that is guaranteed to make memories that last a lifetime.

Have you been on a tour with us in Iceland and would like to be featured as an “Adventurer of the Week”? Feel free to email us at info@mountainguides.is