ICELAND
Magnificent Raw Beauty in the Fall
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The Krona may be down, but not the spirits of the Icelandic people! Last October, just as the economy was in turmoil and the currency was devalued, 10 members of The Women’s Travel Club went to Iceland and had the experience of a lifetime. Comments and photos from several of our members on that trip are included below. This is one of our all-time favorite destinations. Surrounded by mountains and the sea, Reykjavik is one of Europe’s most breathtaking capitals. The renowned Iceland opera, ballet, symphony, world-class art museums and gourmet restaurants add to the city’s unique charm and sophistication. And in late August, you will just catch the tail end of the Iceland Jazz Festival, already a well regarded event in the world of jazz. A few minutes away from the city center, you’ll find the best of Iceland – magnificent fjords, majestic waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, hot springs and the fabled Blue Lagoon. Spend your free days exploring Reykjavík or you can select from a variety of optional tours available for purchase when you are in Iceland through our associates, Reykjavik Excursions. The options are endless!
Exclusively for Women
Not Included:
Iceland Entry Requirements: *** Valid passport required. U.S. citizens do not need a Visa or Inoculations*** Iceland was incredible!!! I feel so enriched by having gone there. The Golden Circle Tour was wonderful. The Icelandic landscape is like something I’ve never seen before - steam arising here and there, beautiful waterfalls at random and my favorite, a geyser out in the middle of a field. We were able to walk right up to it and look down into the hole to watch the water get sucked down and then watch it start filling up again and begin bubbling and getting ready to erupt all over again (every 5 minutes). I know I will never be able to get that close to a geyser anywhere else. We learned about how the lava eruptions build land and saw the different stages of how first there’s the black lava field, and then after time, it’s covered with green moss and then becomes covered with grass and finally becomes pasture land. We passed fields on one side of the road that looked like they were from another planet and then on the other side would be pastures that looked like rural California. Sue C., Lakewood, CA
Inga was the best tour guide possible; personable, warm and really friendly. She even brought us home- made Icelandic goodies and cognac for the Northern lights tour. On Monday, four of us chose the Horse riding followed by the Lagoon trip. That was just sensational. Lastly, the hotel was perfect...a kettle in every room , breakfast delivered to my room at no charge and most importantly the location. Thank you for your attention to all the details and for making such a memorable trip possible. This was one of the best things I've ever done for myself, and yeah you can quote me on that. Susan T., Newton, MA Day 1 - Thursday, August 27: Depart the U.S. for Reykjavik on overnight flights.
To get your introduction to Iceland off to a fast start, we have arranged a city tour, The Reykjavik Grand Excursion. During this tour Reykjavik’s main attractions are highlighted on foot and by bus. The main landmarks, such as The Pearl, Hallgrímskirkja Church, the National Museum of Iceland, the harbour and the famous 101 Reykjavik neighborhood are visited. Following the city tour, you will be transferred back to the hotel where rooms should be ready for check in and you can relax. Tonight, dinner is at leisure. A number of excellent restaurants are very close to the hotel. For an informal meal in a bistro-type place that is well priced, our favorites are Café Paris and Thorvaldssen. If you want an upscale restaurant, try Einar Ben or the warm and cozy Restaurant Reykjavik with its famous ice bar (be sure to wear your warm coat inside!). Entrees at these restaurants will run higher, from a $15 hamburger platter to a $40 fish buffet. There is no tipping in Iceland as all the waiters get a very good salary! For reservations, just ask the hotel concierge to call, preferably a few hours in advance of your seating. (B)
Day 4 - Sunday, August 30: Reykjavík. Enjoy today at leisure in Reykjavík, exploring or shopping along the city’s international center. Or you can join one of the many optional tours available through Reykjavik Excursions. Some of our favorite tours are listed bellow. Due to the recent devaluation of Iceland’s currency, the Krona, prices are estimated. We will have firm costs within 120 days out from your arrival.
Ishetar Horse Farm – A morning horseback ride on one of those adorable, gentle Icelandic horses. The ride lasts for one and a half hours and follows a trail through the spectacular lava fields. Suitable for beginners on horseback. Approximate Cost: $65) The Blue Lagoon – Not to be missed is taking a hot thermal dip in this amazing natural pool. The lukewarm water and natural active ingredients of mineral salts and blue-green algae do wonders for relaxation, not to mention body and soul. The sandy bottom, lovely azure water and white silica mud gives one a unique geothermal steam bath. You can relax in a lava cave or swim in the lagoon. Approximate Cost: $50.
South Shore Adventure: An opportunity to stand behind the plummeting Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, walk up to the Skógafoss Waterfall and gaze at Reynisdrangar rock formations. You will stop at the village Vík, which is surrounded by beautiful and impressive high bird cliffs and unique black sand shores. Approximate Cost: $140. To review all RE’s optional tours online, click here Day 5 – Monday, August 31: Reykjavík. Enjoy another day at leisure in Reykjavík, exploring, shopping, or join one of the other optional tours available through our associates, RE. The Laugarvegur shopping street is a wonderful way to start the day. Located very close to the hotel, there is an excellent choice of vintage clothing shops, art galleries and cafes. Another nearby location is the beautiful Austurvollur garden, where Icelandic people often sit in the sun with family and friends. The garden is surrounded by charming restaurants and cafes. And considering that Iceland has only 283,000 people, the number of museums and art galleries in the country is astounding. Even in the small towns and out-of-the-way fishing villages, you will encounter some public place dedicated to preserving the national heritage or displaying the local artists. (B)
Day 6 - Tuesday, September 1: Reykjavík/U.S. After breakfast there is time for further leisure time as the group departure fight is at 5:00 PM. Transfer from the hotel to the airport for your return flight. (B) For Additional Information, see Visit Reykjavik |
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*Itineraries subject to minor changes- fuel surcharges included in trip prices where airfare is included. Not included: airport taxes, government fees and September 11th Security Fee. Prices per person based on double occupancy. To book this trip please fill out our new member application if applicable and then the booking form. The Women's Travel Club (USA), Inc.
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Day 2 - Friday, August 28: Reykjavík. Upon arrival in Keflavik International Airport, you will be met just outside the customs area by our associates from Reykjavik Excursions. As hotel rooms will not be ready for check-in, we will stop near the airport at the Icelandair Flughotel for their wonderful morning buffet breakfast. Then we will head to Reykjavik, about 40 minutes away, to our hotel, the ideally situated 
