Dean College’s 2023 summer Iceland trip allowed students to embark on an unforgettable experience. From the Blue Lagoon to Reykjavik, the land of fire and ice is known for its many notable landmarks and destinations. I had the pleasure of interviewing rising senior Joëlle Reisner about her experience and what parts of the trip stood out the most to her.
Photo Courtesy of Joëlle Reisner
What made you want to go to Iceland?
I wanted to go to Iceland ever since I began to learn about it in the Vikings and Volcanoes course I took in the Spring Semester of 2023. It made me want to see something new and unusual, as well as a location I have never visited before.
Can you tell me about the program that allowed you to visit Iceland?
In addition to the Honors Program and travel abroad program giving me the opportunity to have this experience, this was a seminar and trip given by Dean College through a business called EF Travel Experience, which prepared everything for the trip.
What places/cities/regions did you visit in Iceland, and what were some notable features about some of them?
Seeing all of the waterfalls and seeing the city of Reykjavik is a must. Also, being able to walk on a glacier and visiting the Blue Lagoon were both fascinating sites to visit.
Do you have any particular landmarks or attractions that were especially your favorite? If so, why?
The city of Reykjavik, the blue lagoon, and the glacier hike were my top tourist destinations. My favorite was the blue lagoon, which aids in supplying nutrients to your skin since, despite the large number of people, it appeared peaceful and restful to be a blue lagoon. Aside from the fact that I had never been on a glacier before, I also loved the experience. I was shocked to learn how the consequences of climate change are being felt in some parts of Iceland. Additionally, it was amazing to stand on the glacier and to see how strong ice can be. Last but not least, I enjoyed the town because I felt at ease and content because it reminded me of a small German village back home. Also seeing the geysers never seen that before water coming out the ground.
Did you have any unique or memorable experiences with the local culture or people during your trip?
Singing Icelandic songs with our wonderful bus driver, eating Icelandic food, having fun with other group members, and seeing all the different animals on a farm we visited.
Did you have the opportunity to try any Icelandic food and/or beverages? Any favorites/recommendations?
Yes, we were able to sample local delicacies such as hot dogs and sodas that were purchased or supplied by the hotel where we stayed or that we purchased with our own money. For suggestions, Try the hot dog and bakery food, both of which are delicious.
What were your accommodations like in Iceland?
Small, but cute. Some nights we stayed in a little house, and other nights we stayed at a local hotel in Reykjavik.
If someone is planning a trip to Iceland, what essential advice or tips would you give them based on your own experience?
Bring warm clothes, it will be cold. Bring a bathing suit and comfortable shoes since you will be walking a lot. Enjoy every moment of this beautiful place and learn as much as possible. Definitely go see the waterfalls and the geysers and try the coffee! Iceland loves their coffee.
Photo Courtesy of Joëlle Reisner
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