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If you've listened to this podcast for a while or reading my posts, you've probably heard me mention that Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world—and that's absolutely true in many ways. Violent crime is incredibly rare, and the sense of community and trust is deeply woven into Icelandic society.But today, we need to talk about a growing concern—something that's caught many tourists off guard: a rise in pickpocketing incidents, particularly in the south of Iceland, including well-traveled areas like Reykjavík, Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and even inside churches like Hallgrímskirkja. Iceland is Still Safe? Let me be clear: Iceland remains a safe place to travel. But just like anywhere that attracts large numbers of tourists, it's not immune to the realities of opportunistic crime. And recently, we've seen a sharp increase in reports of pickpocketing—specifically targeting visitors at popular natural landmarks.Police in South Iceland have been investigating what appears to be a well-organised group—possibly ten individuals—who are blending into crowds at major tourist sites. These aren't random thieves. According to local authorities and park rangers, they use a highly coordinated strategy, working in teams to distract and steal from unsuspecting tourists. How the Pickpockets Operate in Iceland Let's take the geyser Strokkur in the Haukadalur Valley. When it erupts, hundreds of people gather to witness the spectacle—it's loud, dramatic, and absolutely worth seeing. But as your eyes are glued to the steam and water shooting into the sky, pickpockets might be watching you.They blend into the crowd, posing as fellow tourists. Some act as lookouts, some distract by chatting or even offering to take photos, and others use the distraction to reach into backpacks, pockets, or crossbody bags.Stolen items—mostly cash in euros, dollars, pounds, or krónur—are passed quickly to accomplices, making it hard to trace who took what.And this isn't just happening at Strokkur. Similar reports have come from Gullfoss, Þingvellir, and even Reykjavík's iconic Hallgrímskirkja church. In fact, the church recently posted warning signs at its entrance after a string of thefts occurred inside during visiting hours. Prevention Tips – Simple, Smart, Effective So, what can you do to avoid being targeted?Here are some practical, simple things you can do to stay safe:Use anti-theft bags. Look for ones with lockable zippers, cut-proof straps, and compartments that rest against your body.Keep valuables close. A money belt worn under your clothing is ideal for passports, IDs, and cash.Stay aware. If someone approaches you offering help, conversation, or to take your photo—especially in a crowded space—be friendly but cautious.Avoid back pockets. Never store your wallet or phone in a back pocket. It's just too easy to snatch.Limit what you carry. Only take what you'll need for the day—leave extra cards, cash, and your passport locked up at your accommodation.Be mindful in crowds. Places like Strokkur, Geysir, and the viewing platforms at Þingvellir draw hundreds of people. These moments of awe are unfortunately prime time for thieves.And one more thing: if the worst does happen and you are robbed, call 112—Iceland's emergency services number. Also, make sure you have digital copies of your documents in a secure, password-protected folder, ideally emailed to yourself or saved in cloud storage. When & Where PickPocket Groups Strike the Most According to park rangers and local authorities, these organised pickpocket groups tend to appear in February, March, and July—timing their activities around peak tourism periods. They often arrive early in the morning, scout areas like Þingvellir's Hakið viewpoint above the Almannagjá gorge, and move on from site to site in a very methodical way.This isn't just some random occurrence—it's a planned...
Today we present a poem by Whale the Boar, who clearly suffers from some non-trivial amount of species confusion. He is the writer of the furry visual novels Strokkur and Anamnesis, and you can find more of his poetry on Bluesky under the hashtag #whalesong. He also writes short stories on SoFurry.Read for you by Rob MacWolf — werewolf hitchhiker.thevoice.dog | Apple podcasts | Spotify | Google PodcastsIf you have a story you think would be a good fit, you can check out the requirements, fill out the submission template and get in touch with us.https://thevoice.dog/episode/boars-three-different-kinds-by-whale-the-boar
In the rugged highlands of Iceland, a troll named Bergþór lived with his wife in a cave called Hundahellir, nestled in the slopes of Bláfell. Unlike the fearsome reputation trolls usually have, Bergþór was a gentle giant, mild-mannered and kind—though not someone you'd want to provoke. Skilled in the mysterious “black arts,” Bergþór kept mostly to himself. Want more Icelandic folklore stories? This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing an Icelandic folklore story every Friday in 2024 Click Here for More Icelandic Folklore The Tale of Bergþór the Troll Not far from the cave stood a farm in Haukadalur, where an elderly farmer lived. One day, Bergþór visited the farmer with an unusual request.“When I die,” the troll said, “I want to be buried where I can hear the sound of church bells and running water. Please promise to lay me to rest in the churchyard at Haukadalur. As a sign of my passing, you'll find my large wooden staff at your door. And as thanks for fulfilling my wish, you're welcome to take whatever you find in the kettle by my bedside.”The farmer agreed, and with that, Bergþór left. A Mysterious Death Time passed, and one crisp morning, the farmer's servants stumbled upon a massive wooden staff leaning against the farmhouse door. When they told the farmer, he immediately knew—it was Bergþór's staff.Without delay, the farmer and his men prepared a coffin and set out for Bláfell. Inside the cave, they found Bergþór's enormous body lying lifeless. Surprisingly, the troll's gigantic corpse was remarkably light, almost as if it were hollow.They gently placed him in the coffin, still marveling at the strange sight.Beside Bergþór's bed, they noticed a large kettle.Remembering the troll's promise, the farmer eagerly opened it, expecting to find a treasure trove of gold. But to his dismay, the kettle was filled with nothing but dead leaves.The farmer's anger flared. Had Bergþór tricked him? Still, one of the men decided to fill his gloves with the leaves, just in case there was more to them than met the eye. With the kettle left behind, they carried the coffin down the mountain. Leaves Turn to Gold At the base of the hill, they paused to rest. The man who had taken the leaves peeked into his gloves—and gasped. The leaves had transformed into gold coins!Word quickly spread, and the farmer, now hopeful, rushed back to the cave with his men. But no matter how hard they searched, the cave and the kettle had completely vanished. Others who heard the tale also scoured the mountain in vain. It seemed that Bergþór's magic had hidden the treasure for good.In the end, the farmer kept his promise. Bergþór was buried in the Haukadalur churchyard, and the mound where the troll rests is still known as “Bergþór's Mound” today. Random Fact of the Episode Haukadalur Valley, located in southwestern Iceland, is a stunning geothermal area famed for its geysers and hot springs. Part of the Golden Circle, it features Strokkur, one of Iceland's most reliable geysers, which erupts every 4 to 10 minutes, sending water as high as 30 meters into the air.Nearby is the iconic Great Geysir, which gave its name to geysers worldwide. Although Geysir rarely erupts now, it remains a significant natural feature. The valley also boasts over 40 smaller hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles, offering a dynamic and colorful geothermal landscape.Haukadalsskógur, the valley's forest, is a cultivated area that began as a reforestation project in the 1930s to combat severe soil erosion. It features marked hiking trails, including wheelchair-accessible paths, and is a serene spot for birdwatching and picnics.The forest contains various tree species, some commemorated on a totem pole, symbolizing international connections. Nearby, the Beiná River runs through the area, contributing to its lush environment. Icelandic word of the episode
Iceland, a land of fire and ice, offers a myriad of awesome routes for tourists to explore attractions, but none as well known as the Golden Circle. This popular tourist route is easily accessible from Reykjavik, and it encapsulates the raw beauty and geological marvels of Iceland.In this comprehensive guide, I will take you through the classic stops of the Golden Circle - Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Spring, and Gullfoss Waterfall - and share insights on additional stops that will transform your journey into an unforgettable adventure.Tip: If you were only to do the three main stops, Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs, Gulfoss as a round trip adventure that started and ended in Reykjavík, it will be about 3 hours and 27 minutes of driving without traffic or 233 kilometers (145 miles) according to Google Maps. Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland Before I jump in, I am excited to share that I have created a form where my listeners and followers can submit questions for the “Ask Jewells About Iceland” podcast episodes I plan to do. Here is the link to submit your question. It is a super simple form that only asks for your question and first name to submit. I will create a separate podcast episode to answer the questions submitted. It's basically an ask me anything segment that I decided to start in 2024. Thingvellir National Park: Where History and Geology Converge If you are traveling from the Reykjavík area or the West part of the country, your first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.This isn't just a place of outstanding natural beauty; it's a cornerstone of Icelandic culture and history. Here, the Althing, the world's oldest functioning parliament, was established in 930 AD. As you walk through the park, you're literally strolling between continents; the park lies in a rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.The sight of the vast, rugged landscape stretching out before you is awe-inspiring. In one part of the park is the gorgeous öxarárfoss waterfall. You can easily walk to it and other parts of the park, but there is also the option to drive to different points.Please know that you are expected to pay for parking at the main parking lot, which is where the information center is located. If you do not pay, you will likely get a fine that your rental car company will bill you for.Tip: Don't miss the Silfra fissure, known for its crystal-clear waters and popular for snorkeling and diving. Geysir Hot Spring Area: A Geothermal Marvel Next on the list of the main stops is the Geysir Hot Spring Area. Home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 8-10 minutes, shooting a column of water up to 30 meters in the air, this geothermal area is a testament to Iceland's volcanic activity.The ground is alive here, with bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and the smell of sulfur in the air. The area is named Geysir because the hot spring Geysir used to shoot water into the air too but it is now dormant.Fun Fact: The English word "geyser" derives from Geysir, the name of an old geyser in the area. Gullfoss Waterfall: The Golden Falls The crown jewel of the Golden Circle is undoubtedly Gullfoss Waterfall. Known as the 'Golden Falls', this stunning two-tiered waterfall thunders into a deep canyon, creating a mist that often produces beautiful rainbows, adding to its ethereal beauty.The power and grandeur of Gullfoss are mesmerizing, and the story of its conservation is equally compelling, epitomizing Icelanders' respect for their natural environment. During summer, there is a trail that runs alongside the falls that allows you to get a closer vantage point and feel the power the waterfall rumbling beneath you. During winter, this path is often roped off because it can be icy and dangerous to walk on.
Worldbuilding special: The Mycalogs More world building! Kevin returns to help flesh out his bizarre creations the Mycalogs, super intelligent fungus people. Together the whole gang weave their city of the Cauldron and it's boggy surroundings into our game world. You truly cannot predict what we do here! Theme song by Andy Calabrese, www.andycalabrese.com “Charcoal Stream” by Curved Mirror, www.epidemicsound.com “Odd Constructions” by Taomito, www.epidemicsound.com “Beneath the Yellow Sea” by Luncention, www.epidemicsound.com “Swoon” by Sage Oursler, www.epidemicsound.com “Rising Shadows” by Marten Moses, www.epidemicsound.com “Strokkur” by Rannar Sillard, www.epidemicsound.com “Lacquer” by Farrell Wooten, www.epidemicsound.com Website https://aoepodcast.blubrry.net/ Like us in facebook https://www.facebook.com/archentpod Email us at entropypod@gmail.com
What’s your bucket-list trip? Would you love to sit at a café in Paris? Sail on a magical Christmas market river cruise? Take that ocean dip from your overwater bungalow in Bora Bora?Hike Mount Everest?Go on an African safari?Play with penguins in Antarctica?1 Take a long cruise to…(the Panama Canal; around the world; Europe)?One of my bucket list trips: Iceland. Here's the itinerary:Day 1: Arrive in Reykjavik and meet the group. Tonight I might tour the Harpa Concert Hall, one of the city’s greatest and most distinguished landmarks.Day 2: Hike to Oskjuhlio Hill in the morning, then explore Reykjavik. I might visit the Nautholsvik Geothermal beach, the Vesturbaejarlaug pools, go on a city tour by bike, or go whale watching. So many choices!Day 3: Leave Reykjavik and explore the famous Golden Circle. Practice yoga in Pingvellir National Park. Here I can snorkel between the tectonic plates if I want!The national park is the site where the Eurasian and North American plates meet.Later today I’ll attend a rye bread baking class, where I’ll learn to make rye bread in a black sand geothermal bakery. Then I’ll relax in the geothermal hot springs, or take a dip in a lake nearby. The geothermal hot spring Strokkur erupts about every ten minutes; nearby Geysir, one of the oldest geysers in the world, is mostly dormant.Day 4: This morning, I’ll hike around the Reykjadalur area. I’ll see stunning landscapes, more natural hot springs, rolling hills, and bright blue water.Later today, I’ll visit an Icelandic farm where I’ll meet the unique, sturdy, small Icelandic horse. I’ll learn about the farm, and enjoy a farm-to-table fresh dinner.Day 5: How about a glacier hike? The Solheimajokul Glacier is nearby. Equipped with crampons and an ice axe, I’ll hike through the dramatic glacier valley and along the black sand flood plains to the edge of the ice. The views are stunning.Later I’ll visit Reynisfjara Beach, just outside of Vik. Its black sand and huge rock formations make for stunning photos. There’s even a shallow cave I can explore if the tide and weather cooperate.I’ll explore the Dryrholaey Cape, a small volcanic peninsula. I may even see some nesting puffins.Skogafoss is one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in Iceland, 200 feet high. The thundering water cutting through the green hills make this a sound and sight I don’t want to miss! There’s even a guided meditation scheduled for the waterfall visit.Day 6: I’ll start the day with yoga near the largest lake on the peninsula, and then spend the rest of the day exploring this area. Highlights include Kleifarvatn Lake, which has no visible outlets, colorful geothermal areas, dramatic coastal cliffs, and a footbridge spanning two continents.Day 7: After some morning yoga, I will head to the Blue Lagoon for a soak or treatment. The lagoon’s mineral-rich geothermal seawater is known for its positive effects on the skin.This is my departure day. After the Blue Lagoon, I’ll head to the airport for my flight home.Start planning your bucket list destination. Put it on your calendar. Talk about it. Saying it out loud brings it into existence. Figure out how and when you will make that destination your reality.
Strokkur geyser reimagined by Peter Hodgkinson. "Having explored the "mechanics" of geysers in Iceland I sought to imagine the interior of a geyser chamber rather than the outward surface dynamics. The piece, using only the original sound file, seeks to delve into the magma chamber and give voice ("Vox" of the title), imagining the forces at play within the interior of the magma chamber and the turbulent interaction of magma heat and water. "Software/Hardware: MacBook Pro, LogicX, MacPOD-granular synthesis, SoundStudio, Adobe Audition, Native Instruments- Kontakt and Reaktor"
Two eruptions in quick succession at the Strokkur geyser, Iceland. Recorded by Marcel Gnauk.
In this episode Aaron interview James about the Lava Tunnel tours, the highlights of the Golden Circle including Gullfoss, Geysir and Strokkur; and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula.
Antonina och Christian ringde upp Anders Johansson trummslagaren som spelat med Hammerfall och Yngwie Malmsten, som nu har startat bandet Strokkur med sina söner för att höra lite om det nystartade bandet, om han tänkt på att ha ett artistnamn och såklart historian om flyget till Tokyo som urartade. Pirate Rock no Pirate Rock Antonina och Christian ringde upp Anders Johansson trummslagaren som spelat med Hammerfall och Yngwie Malmsten, som nu har startat bandet Strokkur med sina söner för att höra lite om det nystartade b… Antonina och Chr
In this episode I talk about the goals I set myself for the month of July, and discuss goals for August. Below are links to specific publications/patterns I mention, to see my other projects head on over to the blog (katherinejyane.co.uk) where there are specific tabs linking to different areas of creative endeavours, or email me at mail@katherinejayne.co.uk if you can’t find what you’re looking for!Lace:Finished wedding garter. - http://tinyurl.com/o5bxmjgKnitting:Knit Generation book available to buy at Black Sheep Wools. - http://tinyurl.com/ptqjszgPinecones shawl by Karie Westermann. - http://tinyurl.com/np8wao7Juniper hat by Karie Westermann. - http://tinyurl.com/nqqhvdpKimber hat by Rachel Coopey. - http://tinyurl.com/pguu7d8Yew by Andi Satterlund. - http://tinyurl.com/norzbpyBackbay Jumper by Brooklyn Tweed. - http://tinyurl.com/ptowwb8Fort Jumper by Brooklyn Tweed. - http://tinyurl.com/q86ap8eStrokkur by Ysolha. - http://tinyurl.com/oq36v6yBlank Canvas by Ysolha. - http://tinyurl.com/oqq6jyrContrast toes socks. - http://tinyurl.com/o9nhg8xSocks from the Toe up by Wendy D Johnson. - http://tinyurl.com/noba6rsKnitting Vintage by Claire Montgomerie. - http://tinyurl.com/nzuugsgPom Pom Magazine - http://www.pompommag.comCrochet:Diamond effect blanket/tumbling blocks. - http://tinyurl.com/obvxukdSewing Cooper Bag - http://tinyurl.com/of2fphvZinnia Skirt. - http://tinyurl.com/poowv6jMcCall Shirt dress, pattern 6696. - http://tinyurl.com/ohvwbrjThe Sewing Cafe - http://www.thesewingcafe.co.uk
The Amateur Traveler talks to Dave Grenewetzki about his recent trip to Iceland. Taking advantage of the weakness of the Icelandic economy Dave and his family drove the ring road around Iceland and visited places with great names like the waterfalls Svartifoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss and Gulfoss, Lake Myvatn and the dark castles of Dimmuborgir, the glacial lagoon of Jokulsarlon, the geysers of Geysir and Strokkur, the geothermal activity of Namaskard pass, the university town of Akureyri, the hobbit-like town of Glaumbaer. They went bird watching at Ingolfshofdi, took in the baths at the Blue Lagoon, took the free welcome walking tour of Reykjavik with Jonas, zigzagged between icebergs, hiked to Thingvellir, and took in the tourist attraction of the Midlina bridge.
The Amateur Traveler talks to Dave Grenewetzki about his recent trip to Iceland. Taking advantage of the weakness of the Icelandic economy Dave and his family drove the ring road around Iceland and visited places with great names like the waterfalls Svartifoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss and Gulfoss, Lake Myvatn and the dark castles of Dimmuborgir, the glacial lagoon of Jokulsarlon, the geysers of Geysir and Strokkur, the geothermal activity of Namaskard pass, the university town of Akureyri, the hobbit-like town of Glaumbaer. They went bird watching at Ingolfshofdi, took in the baths at the Blue Lagoon, took the free welcome walking tour of Reykjavik with Jonas, zigzagged between icebergs, hiked to Thingvellir, and took in the tourist attraction of the Midlina bridge.
Amateur Traveler Podcast (iTunes enhanced) | travel for the love of it
The Amateur Traveler talks to Dave Grenewetzki about his recent trip to Iceland. Taking advantage of the weakness of the Icelandic economy Dave and his family drove the ring road around Iceland and visited places with great names like the waterfalls Svartifoss, Seljalandsfoss, Skogafoss and Gulfoss, Lake Myvatn and the dark castles of Dimmuborgir, the glacial lagoon of Jokulsarlon, the geysers of Geysir and Strokkur, the geothermal activity of Namaskard pass, the university town of Akureyri, the hobbit-like town of Glaumbaer. They went bird watching at Ingolfshofdi, took in the baths at the Blue Lagoon, took the free welcome walking tour of Reykjavik with Jonas, zigzagged between icebergs, hiked to Thingvellir, and took in the tourist attraction of the Midlina bridge.
Le son d'un geyser en Islande Blop, blop, pschit, plouf En Islande, le geyser Strokkur jaillit toutes les 5 à 10 minutes. Son eau bleue s'élève en corolle au-dessus du trou, éclate en une colonne écumante d'eau chaude, puis se dissipe en fumée de vapeur blanche. Remugles, hoquets, bouillonnements, gargouillis, déflagration : le son du geyser en stéréo mêle l'eau, la terre, l'air et le feu. Enregistrement : juin 04 - Mix : Christophe Rault - Prise de son & montage : Anthony Carcone