Back in the U.S. safely!

After a wonderful trip, I am back in the United States and back to work. Iceland is a great place to visit that I strongly recommend. I would say do not visit there for less than three days. Be sure to bring lots of money, because it is very expensive. However the views and scenery are unreal. I had a great time there, met some really cool people in the hostel, and had an enjoyable flight home.

I found out that "útsala" is an Icelandic word that means "sale" as in items in a store being at a discounted price. The Icelandic language is pretty cool and reminds me somewhat of Russian (not that I know Russian or have heard much of it.)

The people over there were very friendly and welcoming. It is a very safe country with water that is purified through lava, and the shower and toilet water is volcanic water which smells like rotten eggs. It takes some getting used to. They call the bathrooms either "toilets" or "WC" (water closet). And there are even public WC's downtown, unlike in many bigger cities in the U.S. where you have to pay and eat at a restaurant to use the bathroom.

Suggestions:
--I strongly recommend AT&T phone cards for anyone traveling. The minutes never expire, they are very easy to use, and you can sometimes find them at a discounted rate at Target.

--Also, minimize the amount of times you use an ATM, as you will most likely be charged a fee to use an ATM that is not part of your bank's network. I used my credit card a lot. You may also want to contact your credit card company to let them know you are traveling, because the company may shut off your credit card if you have simultaneous transaction in the U.S. and in another country (i.e. if you purchase something with your credit card in Europe and also buy something online.). And always remember to have a GREAT time, even if it is cold and raining. You are on vacation! Enjoy!

--Take advantage of as many drinks and snacks on the airplane as you can. Most international flights have meals included, so partake in as much as possible because it is "free!" And be sure to get airline miles for your travel!

--If you are on a tight budget, staying in a hostel is a good idea. Check online for specific information, however the ones that have breakfast included and are close to the center of the city are a benefit. Make sure to check if it is a sleeping bag accommodation, which means you have to bring your own sleeping bag. I chose the dormitory sleeping arrangement because if you book a suite, you have to pay for the number of people that can occupy the room (i.e. if it is a double-bed suite, you have to pay for both people)

"Life is GREAT!" -GB