Podcasts about Westfjords

Our spine specialist from Iceland, Dr. Hrefna Sylvia shares a story of a gentleman experiencing back and leg pain after surgery. About Dr. Hrefna Syliva Dr Hrefna Sylvia is born and raised in a small town in the Westfjords in Iceland. In 2009 while training for an Ironman she experienced severe low back pain, that is when she first got introduced to chiropractic. Her interest for chiropractic increased with time and in 2014 she moved to Georgia to study chiropractic. Dr Hrefna Sylvia graduated as a Doctor of Chiropractor from Life University in Atlanta, GA in June 2018 and was awarded the Clinic Excellence award at graduation. During her studies she went as a volunteer to Haiti where she treated both children and adults of all ages. She also went as a volunteer to Eugene, Oregon to help out in the medical tent during the track and field tryouts for the Olympics in Rio 2016. Dr Hrefna Sylvia specializes in the Cox technique as well as the Gonstead technique. She is the only fully certified chiropractor in the Cox technique in Iceland. Resources: hrefnasylvia@gmail.com Facebook: Hrefna Sylvía kírópraktor Instagram: Hrefna Sylvía kírópraktor (hrefnakiro)   Practice name : Endurheimt – Heilsumiðstöð Website: www.endurheimt.is Phone: 832-0404   Find a Back Doctor The Cox 8 Table by Haven Medical

Learn all about Iceland's most haunting archipelagos, Breiðafjörður.  Here we meet Þormóður.  Who is a wise man entangled in long-running feuds with rival sorcerers.  Multiple tales today  recount deadly magic, ghostly hauntings, the power of words in battling unseen forces and so much more! Like what you hear?  Give us 5 Stars!  And follow for more... Checkout our website: Eerie Iceland  Follow us on: Instagram  Find our page on: Facebook  Email us: hello@eerieiceland.com Sources & Extras: Source 1 Source 2 Episode & Editing By: Ann Irene Peters (Iceland Wedding Planner)

I'm taking you on a journey back in time to uncover the story behind how Iceland got its name. This tale involves three adventurous Norsemen who each left their mark on this rugged island, but only one name endured through history. The First Two Vikings That Tried to Name The Landmass To hear the whole story about the first two Vikings that named this country, I have included that in The Savvy Traveler's Guide to Iceland. I created The Savvy Traveler's Guide to Iceland, a comprehensive 8-module video guide that walks you through everything you need to know before visiting. I even have a whole module dedicated to Icelandic History in a Nutshell, where I talk about how Iceland was formed, settlement, the transition from paganism to Christianity, and tons more.Not only that, but when you get the guide, you'll have lifetime access, bonus itineraries to make planning easier, and access to my free and private Facebook group, where I share specially curated Iceland travel posts and do a live Q&A each month!If you want to feel completely confident and stress-free about your trip, you can check out The Savvy Traveler's Guide to Iceland The Viking That Named Iceland In 868 AD, a Viking named Flóki Vilgerðarson set sail from Norway with the full intention of settling in Iceland. He wasn't just any Viking—he was known as Hrafna-Flóki or “Raven Flóki.” He got this nickname because he brought three ravens with him to help navigate the open seas.Once he reached the Faroe Islands, Flóki released his ravens one by one. The first flew back toward the Faroes, the second circled and returned to the boat, and the third flew northwest and never came back. Flóki, believing this meant land was nearby, followed the third raven—and sure enough, he reached Iceland.Flóki and his companions settled in Vatnsfjörður in the Westfjords. The summer was warm and full of fish, so they focused all their efforts on fishing instead of preparing for the harsh winter ahead. When the cold finally set in, disaster struck. Without enough hay, all their livestock perished. By spring, they had no choice but to leave.Before departing, Flóki climbed a mountain and looked out over the fjords. He saw thick ice covering the waters and, in his frustration, named the land Ísland—Iceland. Unlike the previous names, this one stuck, and the island has been called Iceland ever since. A Viking's Regret & A Land of Opportunity What's fascinating is that when Flóki returned to Norway, he had nothing good to say about Iceland. He believed it was a harsh, uninhabitable land. However, one of his crew members, Thorólf, disagreed.He spread rumors that Iceland was so abundant that butter dripped from every blade of grass! This contrasting view sparked curiosity, and soon, more settlers followed, leading to the beginning of permanent Norse settlement in Iceland. Random Fact of the Episode Beyond the Viking Names: Ultima Thule & Nordic Identity Before Iceland had an official name, ancient Roman and Greek texts referred to mysterious lands in the far north as Ultima Thule, meaning “the farthest place beyond the known world.”In the Middle Ages, some maps labeled Iceland as Thule and Greenland as Ultima Thule. Interestingly, by the 19th century, people started associating Thule with Norway instead.While Iceland's name may have been given by a frustrated Viking, the settlers who followed developed a strong sense of identity as Íslendingar—people of Iceland. Despite their ties to the greater Nordic world, they wanted to maintain their distinct culture, which still thrives today. Icelandic Word of the Episode Áfram Ísland – Let's go Iceland! Share This With A Friend Facebook Email Threads Let's Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook

Whether you're planning your first trip to Iceland or you've visited before, knowing the do's and don'ts can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Iceland is a breathtaking country with unique cultural norms, unpredictable weather, and natural wonders that demand respect and preparation. I'll walk you through essential travel tips—things you should absolutely do to get the most out of your visit, as well as common mistakes to avoid. From driving safely on Iceland's rugged roads to experiencing the hot springs like a local, these insights will help you navigate your adventure like a pro. Let's dive into the essential do's and don'ts for traveling in Iceland! 5 Do's & Don'ts When Visiting Iceland 1. Do go to local pools, lagoons and upscale spas. Iceland's bathing culture is such a big part of life here and it's lovely to relax in a geothermally warmed hot tub. Most people think that when I say local pool that I mean some run of the mill uninteresting place but in Iceland, the local pools are lovely and budget friendly.For instance, the biggest one in Laugardalslaug has several hot tubs, including a saltwater one, an Olympic sized lap pool, a wading pool, a gigantic slide for kids of all ages (meaning adults too), a steam room, sauna, a cold dipping pool and lovely changing area. All of that is accessible at the cost of 1.389 ISK or $9.81 for adults, $1.41 for young adults aged 16-17 and free for children up to the age of 15. Every local pool has its own charm and there is almost 2 dozen just in the Reykjavík capital area and many around the whole country.Places like the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon and other well known places to take a dip will cost a lot more. For instance, the Blue Lagoon is 9.900 ISK or about $70 for the lowest admission price for one adult. These places are extremely unique and I have enjoyed many visits to all of the lagoons and new baths around the country, so I don't discourage going, but just know that you have local options too that are great. Don't go into a pool, lagoon, or hot tub in Iceland without showering first One of the most important etiquette rules in Iceland is showering thoroughly, without a swimsuit, before entering a pool, lagoon, or hot tub. Iceland's geothermal pools and hot springs are an essential part of the culture, and maintaining their cleanliness is taken very seriously.Due to the country's limited use of chlorine in pools, washing with soap beforehand helps keep the water hygienic for everyone. Most public swimming areas have strict signage explaining the showering protocol, and some even have attendants ensuring compliance.Skipping this step is considered disrespectful to locals, and you might be asked to leave. Icelanders grow up with this rule, so while it might feel unfamiliar to visitors, it is essential for keeping the pools enjoyable for all. 2. Do Travel to different parts of the country when you visit Iceland is much more than Reykjavik and the Golden Circle. While the capital offers vibrant culture, history, and nightlife, venturing beyond reveals breathtaking landscapes, unique geological formations, and local experiences that make a trip unforgettable. The South Coast is home to stunning waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, black sand beaches, and the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. The Westfjords, a lesser-visited gem, offers dramatic fjords, bird cliffs, and remote hot springs. The North, particularly Akureyri and Mývatn, provides volcanic landscapes, geothermal baths, and excellent whale watching. The Eastfjords offer charming fishing villages and rugged mountains, while the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called "Iceland in Miniature" due to its diverse natural beauty. Expanding your itinerary ensures you experience the true essence of Iceland. Don't Only stay in Reykjavik While Reykjavik is a fantastic city with a lively atmos...

Dive into the incredible story of Iceland's economic transformation. As I talked to some locals, I discovered how a volcanic eruption and innovative marketing turned a financial crisis into a tourism boom. Key Takeaways: Iceland's banking system collapsed in 2008 The Eyjafjallajökull volcano eruption unexpectedly boosted tourism From 500,000 to 2.6 million tourists in just eight years Unique insights into Icelandic culture and the Westfjords region Relevant Links: Inspired by Iceland Campaign: https://www.visiticeland.com  Westfjords Tourism: https://westfjords.is Blog Post Link with pictures, videos and full article: https://theradiovagabond.com/355-iceland  You can follow The Radio Vagabond on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/radiovagabond/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRadioVagabond  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theradiovagabond  Twitter: https://twitter.com/radiovagabond  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@radiovagabond   

This week on World Ocean Radio, host Peter Neill shares views and observations of the town of Isafjordur, Iceland, and the values it possesses that give the area its unique identity.  About World Ocean Radio World Ocean Radio is a weekly series of five-minute audio essays available for syndicated use at no cost by college and community radio stations worldwide. Peter Neill, Director of the World Ocean Observatory and host of World Ocean Radio, provides coverage of a broad spectrum of ocean issues from science and education to advocacy and exemplary projects.15 Years 730+ Episodes All searchable by theme5-minute weekly insights into ocean science, advocacy, education, global ocean issues, challenges, marine science, policy, and solutions. Hosted by Peter Neill, Director of the W2O. Learn more at worldoceanobservatory.orgWorld Ocean Radio: 5-minute weekly insights in ocean science, advocacy, education, global ocean issues, challenges, marine science, policy, and solutions. Hosted by Peter Neill, Director of the W2O. Learn more at worldoceanobservatory.org

When we think of the witch trials, we often think of women being charged.Whilst misogyny was at the heart of many of the witch trials, this isn't the full story.In this second episode of a limited series, Inside the Witch Trials, we go back to the the Westfjords of Iceland, to find out why it was mostly men, not women, who were burned at the stake for witchcraft.How did society differ to the rest of Europe at this time? How did Iceland's history of magic impact ideas around witchcraft? And what hope did you have if you were accused of being a witch?Kate is joined by Dr. Ólína Kjerulf Þorvarðardóttir, Dean of Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Bifröst.This episode was edited and produced by Stuart Beckwith. The senior producer was Charlotte Long.Enjoy unlimited access to award-winning original documentaries that are released weekly and AD-FREE podcasts. Sign here for up to 50% for 3 months using code BETWIXTYou can take part in our listener survey here.

In the early morning hours of February 28th in 1910, there was a powerful avalanche that hits the Westfjords town of Hnífsdalur (Knife Valley).  Find out what happens as Ann retells the tale... Like what you hear?  Give us 5 Stars!  And follow us for more... Checkout our website: Eerie Iceland  Follow us on: Instagram  Find our page on: Facebook  Email us: hello@eerieiceland.com Sources & Extras: Source 1 Source 2 Source 3 Source 4 Source 5 Source 6 Episode By: Ann Irene Peters (Iceland Wedding Planner) Editing By: James Ede (Be Heard | Podcast Production)

This is episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a Folklore story every Friday in 2024. To hear other stories, I have shared so far, check them out on my website All Things Iceland.  How Icelandic Necropants are Created Imagine making a pact with your best friend—if one of you dies, the other gets to use the body for something truly bizarre: making a pair of magical pants. These aren't just any pants though. They're called Necropants, and they're made from human skin, specifically from the waist down.So, when one friend dies, the surviving one digs up the body, carefully peels off the skin from the legs (without making any holes, of course), and puts them on right away. Sounds grim, right? But here's the catch—the pants don't just sit on you like a creepy costume. They actually fuse to your body, becoming a part of you. You can wear them as long as you like, but eventually, you'll have to pass them on to someone else if you want to keep the magic going.But wait, what magic, you ask? Just wearing the pants isn't enough to unlock the wealth. For that, you need to perform a twisted ritual. First, you must steal a coin from a desperately poor widow, and the timing is key—it has to be done during a church service, right between specific readings on Christmas, Easter, or Whit Sunday.You then place this stolen coin into the “pocket” of the Necropants. And here's where things get even stranger: that “pocket” is more like the, ahem, scrotum area of the pants. Once the coin is in, the pants magically start producing more coins. Free money, but with a dark price. Why Some People Feel Necropants are Worth it But these aren't your average enchanted pants. If you remove the original stolen coin, the magic stops working. And then there's the even darker part—when you're ready to pass the pants to someone else, you can't just hand them over. There's a strict process. You have to remove the pants one leg at a time. First, the right leg comes off, and the new wearer has to immediately put on that same leg. Once they're in, there's no turning back. Even if they try to stop, they're cursed to wear the full pants, like it or not.If you fail to pass them on properly, your soul could be in danger, and your body, once you're dead, will be consumed by vermin. Some say theseNecropants are a gift from the devil himself, a symbol of the pact made with dark forces in exchange for earthly riches. But no matter how much wealth you gather, wearing them comes with a heavy cost. Random Fact of the Episode A replica of what these pants are supposed to look like are in the Icelandic Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft in Hólmavík in the Westfjords region of the country. Icelandic Word of the Episode  Nábrók - necropants Share This to a Friend Facebook Email Threads Let's Be Social Youtube Tiktok Instagram Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024. Why Trolls Tried to Make the Westfjords of Iceland an Island Centuries ago, in the wild and rugged land of Iceland, three mischievous trolls hatched a plan to reshape the landscape forever. Their goal? To sever the Westfjords from the rest of the island by digging a massive channel between Húnaflói Bay and Breiðafjörður Bay.These trolls loved a good challenge, so they added a competitive twist: as they dug, they would turn the earth they dug into islands.Deep in their task, the trolls were so focused on their wicked work that they failed to notice the sky brightening—the worst mistake a troll could make, for sunlight spells doom to such creatures The Trolls Try to Escape the Death In the west, where two trolls toiled tirelessly, hundreds of small islands began to speckle the shallow waters of Breiðafjörður. But in the east, where one lone troll struggled with the deeper, harsher waters of Húnaflói, only a few meager mounds rose from the sea.As the first light of dawn began to creep across the horizon, panic set in. The two trolls in the west abandoned their work and sprinted northeast, hoping to escape the deadly sunlight. But they were too late. The rays of the morning sun caught them in Kollafjörður, instantly turning them into stone, where they stand to this day.Their frenzied digging left behind the Gilsfjörður and Bitrufjörður fjords—mere hours more and they might have succeeded in turning the Westfjords into an island.Meanwhile, the third troll in the east, furious at her lack of progress, slammed her shovel into the ground in frustration. With a crack, a piece of earth broke free, forming what we now know as Grimsey Island. But before she could celebrate, the rising sun caught her as well, turning her to stone.Today, her petrified form remains in the village of Drangsnes, known as the Kerling rock formation—a reminder of the trolls' ill-fated quest to reshape Iceland's coasts. Random Fact of the Episode The Westfjords is one of the oldest parts of Iceland. The ancient basaltic lava flows date back to the Tertiary period, which is around 7 to 16 million years ago. Icelandic Word of the Episode Tröll – troll Share this with a Friend Facebook Email Threads Let's Be Social Youtube Tiktok Instagram Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

This is part of my Folklore Friday Series, where I am sharing an Icelandic folklore story every Friday in 2024. A King's Decree Leads To Iceland's Land Spirits Being Discovered In the Heimskringla saga of King Olaf Tryggvason, there is a captivating tale of King Harald Bluetooth's failed attempt to invade Iceland. According to the saga, Harald tasked a sorcerer who transformed into a fearsome whale, with finding the island's vulnerabilities. However, each time the whale-sorcerer tried to land, he was repelled by supernatural beings known as Land Spirits, Iceland's guardians. A Sorcerer Encounters Iceland's Land Spirits The whale-sorcerer's first attempt to land was in the Eastern Fjords, where he encountered a ferocious dragon. This dragon was so powerful that it is said that its fiery breath could make the ocean burn. To add to that, the flaps of its wings sounded like thunder. Alongside the dragon were terrifying snakes, lizards, and slithering spirits. Fearing for its life, the whale retreated farther back into the ocean.A little shaken but still determined, the sorcerer/whale found himself in the north of Iceland, aiming to land in Eyjafjörður. Here, a massive griffin with an immense wingspan descended from the skies. Countless birds with razor-sharp talons and beaks like battle axes came with it. Together, they drove the whale-sorcerer away.For his third attempt, the whale tried to land in the Westfjords of the country, specifically Breiðafjörður, where an enormous bull awaited him. Unlike other bulls, this one was said to have a body as solid as the earth, bronze horns, and a hide as tough as stone. To add to its insane exterior, one bellow from the bull made the mountains shake. and a body as solid as the earth, the bull's bellowing made the mountains tremble. Not surprisingly, the whale-wizard had no intention of going head-to-head with the bull, so it fled.In a final desperate attempt to find a vulnerable spot on the island to report back to the King, the sorcerer aimed for the Reykjanes peninsula. Here, he faced an enormous giant whose head towered above the hilltops. Armed with an iron staff and with a formidable army of other giants, the giant sent the whale-sorcerer fleeing back to the sea, thwarting King Harald Bluetooth's invasion plans. Random Fact of the Episode These guardians protect Iceland, each overseeing a quarter of the island. To this day, these Land Spirits are deeply respected and are featured on the Icelandic coat of arms, as well as the Icelandic króna coins. They symbolize the protection and prosperity of Iceland's land and its spiritual and physical inhabitants. Icelandic Word of the Episode Landvættir is the Icelandic word for land spirits. Share This With a Friend Facebook Email LinkedIn Let's Be Social Youtube Tiktok Instagram Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega

This is part of my Folklore Friday Series, where I am sharing an Icelandic folklore story every Friday in 2024. A Magical Woman from Norway Migrates to Iceland In the book of the Icelanders, or Landnámabók, is a person named Þuríður syndafyllir and her son Völu-Steinn. They immigrated from Northern Norway and settled in Bolungarvík in the Westfjords of Iceland.It was rumored that Þuríður had incredible powers. One story about her when she lived in Norway was that she cast a spell that filled all the straits with fish. Fighting Over Land – Petty or Justified? This particular Folklore story is about a quarrel she had with her brother Þjóðólfur. One day her brother asked Þuríður to give him land at Bolungarvík. She agreed to letting him have the land he could fence in on his own in a day.While Þjóðólfur had planned to fence off land that started at Stigi and included Hlíðardalur, and Tungudalur, he only made it about half way to the middle of Tungudalur. Even though the deal was pretty clear, Þjóðólfur was not happy that his sister would not allow him to also have Tungudalur included as part of his land.To get back at her for denying him, he decided to steal one of her ox that she kept at Stigihlíð. To Þjóðólfur´s suprise, his sister caught him trying to steal the ox and ran after him. He was quick but she caught up to him at Ófæra and tried to get the animal back. However, her brother won that battle.Not one to be outdone, Þuríður cast a spell upon Þjóðólfur that would turn him into a stone that many birds would defecate on. The part about being pooped on is specifically part of this story. LOL. Well, her brother was magically inclined as well, and he cast a spell for her to be turned into a rock that is placed where the highest winds blow. Turning Each Other to Stone Well, both of their spells worked and each turned into stone. Þjóðólfur became a rock that rolled into the water but was never full submerged. A variety of birds would land on it and leave behind their waste. Apparently, the locals knew of this story and the stone.They called in Þjóðólfur after the brother and would talk about it when walking by. It is said that in 1936, the stone vanished probably because the end of the spell had been reached. Þuríður became a stone at the northern part of Óshlíð and might still be there to this day. Make Your Own Itinerary with My Iceland Map Another great resource is to grab full access to my Iceland map. This map was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.With full access, you get over 280 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland. Random Fact of the Episode Óshlíð, the historical road connecting Bolungarvík and Hnífsdalur, began construction in the 1950s and was once the sole link for Bolungarvík residents to Iceland's road network. As of 2010, the route no longer accommodates vehicle traffic due to the opening of the new Bolungarvík tunnel. However, Óshlíð has been repurposed as a scenic outdoor area for recreation. The smooth pavement provides ideal conditions for cyclists and runners seeking a nature immersion. The imposing cliffs towering 300 to 400 meters above can make one feel quite diminutive.Óshlíð is notorious for its challenging road conditions, with frequent avalanches, rockfalls, and debris. Parts of the road have deteriorated due to harsh weather and coastal erosion. Consequently, tourists are urged to exercise caution and park their cars at either end of the pass.

Interviews are one of my favorite things to do for the podcast, so I was delighted when Laura was available to come on and share about her experience moving from the San Francisco Bay area to one of the most remote parts of the Westfjords in Iceland. Background About Laura Alice Watt Laura Alice Watt is a professor emerita of environmental history and policy at Sonoma State University in Northern California. She arrived in the Westfjords in July 2020 with a Fulbright-NSF Arctic Scholar grant to conduct historical research in Iceland, and decided to stay long-term.  She teaches occasional courses at the University Centre of the Westfjords, where she also provides writing support for graduate students with their thesis projects.Before taking early retirement from Sonoma State, she spent fifteen years as professor in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Planning, and also Graduate Coordinator for SSU's Cultural Resource Management masters program. She now lives on the northern shore of Dýrafjörður with her two cats, and is an avid photographer and knitter. Questions I Asked Laura During the Interview Where did you grow up in the US?What was your profession while living in the US?What inspired you to come to Iceland?When did you know you wanted to stay here?Why did you choose the Westfjords to live in Iceland?What do you like about living in Iceland?What do you dislike about living in Iceland?What do you miss from the US (if anything at all)?Do you ever see yourself moving back to the US?How has your Icelandic learning journey been since moving here?What advice do you have for people who want to move to Iceland?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase? Icelandic Phrase of the Episode Glöggt er gests augað - Keen is the eye of the guest Share this with a Friend Facebook Email Twitter Let's Be Social Youtube Tiktok Instagram Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing fascinating stories from Icelandic folklore on Fridays throughout 2024. Why Finnur is a Feared Sorcerer A sorcerer named Finnur that lived a long time ago. So many people feared him and when he died no one wanted anything to do with the death, such as preparing the body or sewing up the shroud, which covers the dead body. Finally, one woman said she will sew the shroud. When she was doing it, some weird stuff was happening. It seems that even in death, Finnur had found ways to terrorize people. The antics that happened while she was trying to sew the shroud made her go mad. Another Brave Woman Steps Up to Prep Finnur's Body After that, people were, of course, even more resistant to getting involved in prepping his body. However, another woman stepped forward and said she was up to the task. While she was sewing up the shroud it came to a point where she need to disconnect the needle from the thread, she witnessed something strange.The corpse of Finnur said to her “You have yet to bite the needle free from the thread”. Instead of being scared, the woman boldly said, “I don't plan on biting it. I plan on yanking it free.” That is exactly what she did and after that she took the needle she had used, broke it into two pieces and stuck it into the corpses' feet. After doing that, the corpse of Finnur stopped playing antics nor did it bother anyone else.I don't know if putting needles into a corpses' feet has some sort of significance, but I do think it is interesting that this specific action would shut him up. Random Fact of the Episode I am pretty sure that in a previous episode, I have spoken about the Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft Museum in Hólmavík in the Westfjords of Iceland. What might surprise people is that most of the people persecuted for doing magic in Iceland were men. At the museum, they showcases the documented executions of people who did magic and most of them happened in the Westfjords. Icelandic Word of the Episode Galdramaður – sorcerer Share This With a Friend Facebook Email Twitter Let's Be Social Youtube Tiktok Instagram Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

This is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing an Icelandic Folklore story every Friday in 2024. The upcoming story is based on a description of the Ox-Whale in the book “Meeting with Monsters – An Illustrated Guide to the Beasts of Iceland” by Jón Baldur Hlíðberg and Sigurður Ægisson. It is an awesome book and I highly recommend getting if you like to read about creatures that many claim to be real around Iceland. Jón is one of the owners of The Icelandic Sea Monster Museum in the Westfjords. If you are planning to travel in that part of Iceland, be sure to visit that museum. Why The Icelandic Ox Whale is so Terrifying In the far reaches of Iceland, where the cold Atlantic whispers ancient secrets, there exists a creature as old as the sagas themselves, known among the folk as the Ox Whale, or 'nauthveli'. Shrouded in the mists of time, its tales are woven into the very fabric of Icelandic lore, emerging from the depths in hushed tones only by the light of the hearth.The first whispers of this maritime specter stirred not from ink upon parchment but from the lips of weathered seafarers, whose ancestors cast wary glances upon the churning waves. It was in the twilight of the 13th century that the earliest murmurs danced upon the winds, speaking of a leviathan, a ghostly echo of the cow-whale, its kin cloaked in mystery and shadow.As the hands of time turned to the year of 1590, a chilling portrait emerged from the veiled past. The Ox Whale, a creature of unfathomable hunger and wrath, was no mere beast of the deep but a herald of doom. Its call, a terrifying bellow, resonated like the fury of a tempest, shaking the very bones of the earth, sending ripples of dread through the hearts of those who heard it.This monstrous denizen of the abyss, driven by insatiable greed, prowled the oceans, its eyes alight with the hunger for prey, casting a shadow of fear over any who dared to venture into its domain. What an Ox Whale Does to Cows In time, tales of its dread visage grew darker still. By 1638, it was said to bear a likeness to the horse-whale, yet marked by its haunting cry, a sound so petrifying that it could curdle the blood of the bravest souls. By 1666, its enormity was unveiled, a behemoth among the toothed whales, its flesh anathema, its presence a bane to the vessels of man.The dawn of the 18th century bore witness to a new horror; its bellow, an eldritch call, ensnared the minds of cattle, drawing them, spellbound, into the maw of the abyss. This sinister enchantment was proven at Hjortsey farm, a grim testament to the Ox Whale's malevolent lure.As the mid-century approached, the enigma deepened. Though its form eluded the gaze of man, it was believed to bear the head of a bull, a monstrous aberration that bellowed with such might that the earth itself seemed to tremble in fear. It was a phantom of fog and shadow, forbidding all who heard its call from braving the treacherous embrace of the sea.The tale took a grim turn in 1786 on the shores of Grimsey, where the beast's insatiable appetite was laid bare in a macabre dance of death with a doomed cow, a spectacle of cruelty that echoed the darkest fables. The Physical Description of an Ox Whale As the 19th century dawned, a mariner's account cast a new light upon this enigma of the deep, describing it as a chimera of bull and serpent, a creature of haunting beauty and terror, a paradox of nature's design.The lore of the Ox Whale, a mosaic of fear, wonder, and the unfathomable, permeates the essence of Iceland's maritime heritage, a lingering shadow in the realm of legend and truth. And so it remains, a whispered enigma, a ghostly presence forever etched into the annals of Icelandic folklore, its legacy enduring in the silent depths, where the sea meets the sky. Random Fact of the Episode According to the book, a male born in 1879 reported that between 1890 and 1896, people who had been on a trading trip to Eyrarbakki in...

A quick but fascinating Icelandic folklore tale about Naustahvilft. According to the legend, a troll was hurrying home to avoid being turned into stone by the sun that was going to rise soon. She was traveling quickly enough that she was ahead of schedule and was able to stop to rest.The area that she stopped is Ísafjörður, the fjord where the largest town in the Westfjords is located. The troll's feet were aching so she sat down on the mountain to rest. The shear weight of her made an indent in the mountain with her rear as soon as she sat down.Please note that trolls are gigantic figures in Icelandic folklore, so it is possible for them to have this impact on a mountain. When the troll got up to continue her journey, the imprint of her rear was left. That indent was then nicknamed "Troll's Seat". The view from Naustahvilft Random Fact of the Episode There is a short but steep trail here that I loved hiking. I think it took me around 30 minutes to reach the top but I was huffing and puffing at the end because the steepness does get intense. However, the views on a nice day are incredible. For a little bit of effort, you are rewarded with views of the fjord. If you spend some time up there, you might even see some planes taking off or landing.Like other hikes in Iceland, there is normally a guest book you can sign at the top that is being kept safe from the harsh weather in a metal box.  There is a space for cars to park for this trail but it can be hard to miss so drive a little slower when you getting close to the location, so you easily make the turn into the small lot. Books About Icelandic Folklore The Guardians of Iceland and other Icelandic Folk TalesIcelandic Folk Legends: Tales of Apparitions, Outlaws, and Things UnseenThe Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty Stories of Elves from Icelandic FolkloreIcelandic Folk Tales Icelandic Word of the Episode Ísafjörður – ice fjord Send This to a Friend Facebook Email LinkedIn Let's Be Social Youtube Tiktok Instagram Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

Today, we're diving into some intriguing Icelandic tales from East Iceland, specifically some tales from the life of Pastor Vigfús Benediktsson. Back in the 18th century, Vigfús found himself dealing with some pretty wild supernatural encounters. Luckily for him, some of the intuitive and resourceful women in his life were able to help him out when he was in some spooky situations. Pastor Vigfús' Near Fatal Drink Before landing the gig at Kalfafellsstadur, Vigfús was the pastor at Einholt. Around this time, he bumped heads with a local named Ólafur at Viðborðssel. Let's just say things got heated from time to time.One day, Vigfús planned to visit his parishioners, despite the nasty weather. His wife, sensing trouble, advised against stopping at Ólafur's place, the guy who he bumped heads with, but Vigfús went anyway. At Viðborðssel, Ólafur welcomed him and offered a drink from a mysterious bottle. At first, Vigfús did not drink from the bottle but as time went on he was getting thirsty, so he loosened the cork on the bottle.Just as Vigfús was about to have a sip, his wife burst in, warning him not to drink. Instead, she took a swig, and spat it out. The dog in  the room licked up the liquid she spat out and died on the spot! After that, she reassured Vigfús it was safe to drink, and he did without any harm. Personally, I wouldn't want to touch the bottle after seeing the dog die from drinking for it but clearly Vigfus trusted his wife with his life. Saved by his Wife Again On another occasion, Vigfús was traveling through the Öræfi district and ended up at Hnappavellir, planning to push on to Hof, which was not far off. While he had been offered an escort, he did not find one necessary, so he set off alone despite the late hour.Later, he showed up at a nearby croft, Litlahof, and saw that someone was in the window. The woman that came out to greet him was surprised to see the pastor so late. Pastor Vigfús asked her if he could stay the night and that she keep a light burning the whole night.Back at home, Malfríður (Sigfús´s wife) woke up in a panic because she knew that her Fúsi, the nickname she has for her husband Sigfús, was in trouble. To make sure no harm came his way, she gnawed on a piece of gray cloth from her bodice all night until dawn. When dawn arrived she knew he was safe and she stopped gnawing on the cloth. A Ghost with a Deadly Mission Before his East Iceland days, Vigfús had a tough time in Aðalvik in the Westfjords, thanks to some hostile magicians. They had been using their magic to torment Vigfús and that is why he had left the area to serve in the East. Even though he was far removed from them, their grudge against him had not subsided, so they decided to wake up a ghost and sent it to kill Vigfus after he moved east! As his leather-clad ghost made its way to Vigfus, it stopped first at Tvisker, scaring a farmer named Einar on Shrove Tuesday. When the ghost arrived early in the morning, Einar was the only one awake. Einar asked the stranger where he was from and the answer was the Westfjords. Einar assumed the stranger had a message for him, so he asked if he had any news and the ghost replied that one of Einar's sheep was dead in the fields. When Einar heard this, he immediately felt something was not right because how can a man from the Westfjords, which is very far from the East, know the mark that Einar has on his sheep. Just to note that it is common practice for farmers to mark their sheep in some way so they can find them during the yearly sheep round up called rettir or if they get lost in general. It make sense that someone from your own region would know the mark you have on your sheep but for a person from a very far area to know this is odd.To test the stranger even more, Einar asked him where a key was that had been lost twenty years prior. Without a hesitation, the ghost told him exactly where it was. Now,

Anna Björg Þórarinsdóttir is the manager of The Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft in The Westfjords region of Iceland.  We begin on the country's origins as a Viking settlement, followed by life in the traditional turf houses. From there we learn that belief in elves is still relevant today and how spirits in the land have shaped not only Icelandic legends, but the ethos. We hear of a nearby farm built over a heathen temple where an ominous Viking-era stone was discovered. In story form, Anna tells the rich history of the island's 16th-to-17th-century sorcerers: the religious temperament of the time, their persecution, and her own ancestral involvement. This opens up further synchronicities around her position at the museum & growing up in a New Age household. For the remaining time, it's an all out deluge of folklore and magic: spirit guides called Fylgja, hunting & farming folk magic, The Helm of Awe, the Yule Lads, a pair of human skin pants, and finally, a grotesque milk-stealing wool-worm known as the Tilberi! Learn more about The Museum of Icelandic Sorcery & Witchcraft & follow Anna on Instagram.Reading excerpt from Icelandic Folk Legends: Tales of Apparitions, Outlaws and Things Unseen by Alda Sigmundsdóttir  Music Credit:"Ragnarok" [The End of the Gods]Performed by Ensemble: SequentiaCourtesy of

Explore the stunning beauty of Iceland's Westfjords through the eyes of Henry Fletcher and Jay Simpson in their transformative guide, Wayfinding in the Westfjords.

Learn what to expect when traveling to Iceland in April. That includes road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during this month, some tips on driving during this time, top activities, and events that happen annually during this month. Weather in Iceland in April April marks the transition from winter to spring in Iceland. The weather can be unpredictable, with varying temperatures and frequent changes. The average high temperature is 44 F (6.8 C), and the low temperature is 39 F (3 C).I always recommend that you pack layers and be prepared for sudden weather shifts, including rain, snow, wind, and occasional sunshine. Daylight Hours One of the major advantages of visiting Iceland in April is the lengthening of daylight hours. During the early part of the month, you can enjoy approximately:April 1st – 13 hours and 31 minutesOn April 15th there are 15 hours and 03 minutesApril 30th - 16 hours and 43 minutes Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland Because April is a transitional month road conditions can vary. While main roads are generally accessible, some secondary roads in remote areas may still be closed or have limited access due to lingering snow and ice.It's crucial to stay updated on road conditions and weather forecasts by checking reliable sources like the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration's website. If you plan on driving, renting a 4x4 vehicle with studded winter tires is recommended for added safety. It's a Great Time to Explore in a Car or Campervan Go Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.I personally use them for when I go on adventures, and I'm so glad to hear that many of my listeners and subscribers are also having a great experience with them. I mentioned in a previous episode that one of my listeners switched to Go Car Rental Iceland from one of the internationally known rental car companies here and she saved $400! That was for a rental during the summer when prices can sometimes double due to demand.If you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that. What to Wear in Iceland in April To stay comfortable during your visit in April, it's essential to dress in layers. Start with a base layer of thermal clothing, followed by a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don't forget to bring a hat, gloves, and a sturdy pair of waterproof boots for outdoor activities. It's also wise to have a waterproof backpack to protect your belongings from unexpected showers.If you want more specific help with what to pack, grab my FREE ultimate packing checklist for Iceland. Why You Should Visit Iceland in April April offers a unique blend of winter and spring experiences. Here are a few reasons why it's an excellent time to visit Iceland:Fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more intimate experience.Witness the transition of landscapes from snow-covered winter wonderlands to budding greenery.Increased chances of viewing the Northern Lights due to extended darkness during the evenings.Opportunity to enjoy activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, and snowmobiling before they become inaccessible during the warmer months.Often slightly warmer Iceland Events in April Aldrei Fór Ég Suður - this is a music festival in the Westfjords that takes place over the long Easter weekend.Children's Culture Festival - A lovely festival that's fun for the who...

I have some news to share that may or may not impact travelers to Iceland.  I've been holding off on talking about the current labor strikes because they have yet to have a big impact on the everyday lives of most people living in Reykjavik or people visiting. However, that might change in the coming days or week if the strike continues and a work ban happens. While there are a lot of drama that I could go into about what is happening behind the scenes, I decided to give an abridged yet still informative synopsis about what is happening. The Short Backstory About the Labor Strikes Efling, one of the largest labor unions in Iceland, has been fighting for higher wages for their members. Due to inflation, the cost of food and other items have gone way up and current minimum wage salaries are not cutting it as a livable wage. Many members in this union are on the lower end of the pay scale. They work in hotels, drive trucks, staff in hospitals, police officers and so on. Well, Efling and the Confederation of Icelandic Enterprises (SA) have not been able to strike a deal when it comes to companies agreeing to pay their employees more. To demonstrate their stance on demanding more pay, over 40% of Efling members voted for some kind of strike. Of the 21,000+  members in Efling about 2,000 are currently on strike. In response to the the strikes, about 94.73% of the companies that are members of  the Confederation of Icelandic Enterprises have voted in favor of a work ban or lock out. This work ban means that all of the members of Efling, regardless if they are actively taking part in the strikes, will be barred from working and will not be paid while the work ban is in effect. Originally, the work ban was scheduled for March 2nd but it has now been postponed until March 6th. What The Strikes Mean for Travelers in Iceland The truck drivers on strike are not delivering fuel to gas stations and there is concern that stations in Reykjavik, the Reykjanes Peninsula (where the airport is located), South Iceland, West Iceland, and the Westfjords will run out of fuel. Other individuals that are on strike clean hotels in the Reykjavik capital area. If you are planning to stay at the following hotels, you might experience a disruption in service or a cancellation of your accommodations: Hotel Reykjavik Saga Fosshotel Rauðará Fosshotel Lind Berjaya Reykjavík Natura Hotel Hilton Reykjavík Nordic Berjaya Reykjavík Marina Hotel If you find that your hotel accommodations have been cancelled and you can not rebook your accommodations somewhere else, there is an emergency number you can call. It is open for 12 hours a day (8 AM – 8 PM GMT. The number is +354-891-7765. One major thing to consider is if the work ban goes into effect on March 6th, then tourism and other industries in the country might grind to a halt. The Confederation of Icelandic Enterprises has stated that emergency workers like the police, hospital workers, rescue team members and so on when not take part in the work ban. That is one reassurance for all of anyone concerned about getting any type of care during all of this. There is also no current concern about stores running out of food or anything like that. List of Fuel Stations in Iceland Here is a list of websites for the largest fuel stations in the country. They are showing which stations of theirs have fuel and which have run out. Not all of the sites are in English. The word opið means the station is open and lokað means it is closed. https://www.olis.is/um-olis/frettir/275  https://www.atlantsolia.is/stadan-a-bensinstodvunum/  https://www.orkan.is/verkfall/  https://www.n1.is/opnar-daelur/ According to the Icelandic tourism board, the FlyBus that transports people to and from the airport will continue to run. Also, the public bus, Stræto, in Reykjavík will continue to run on schedule too for the time being. Random Fact of the Episode You might be wondering what the Icelandic government has to ...

What better way to celebrate the 50th episode of the On the Dogwatch podcast than to have a conversation with someone who has provided steadfast support and positive energy, and has become the de facto patron saint of the podcast, James Cox. Many listeners will remember when James joined us for Episode #28 and told the story of his relationship with Paul Newman, and how he was given Newman's Rolex Daytona watch. In our conversation today we pick up where we left off and talk about how funds from the sale of the Paul Newman have been used in projects such as the preservation of the Westfjords of Iceland, the ecology of salmon in the Pacific northwest, and the Kiss the Ground movie project. Listeners are encouraged to learn more at the Nell Newman Foundation, and at Myfriendjames.com. In addition, James and I also discuss the year I have spent with James's black dial Daytona, and what can be learned when people connect through the sharing of a simple object like a watch. In the end, James gives us plenty to think about regarding how we dedicate ourselves to making contributions and positive change.

On this bonus episode, Kathryn is chatting about all things Iceland with Lael Wilcox, Brooke Goudy, Lynnee Jacks and Maria Ögn Guðmundsdóttir. This summer they will all be taking part in the Westfjords Way Challenge, a 5-day stage race in the Westfjords of Iceland that will cover 595 miles over some of the country's most remote and beautiful landscape. Lynnee is the co-director of the Westfjords Way Challenge, she wants everyone to know that it is more than just a race; the event is about meaningful interaction with the people and places you will encounter along the way. Lynnee and her organizing team have also made a commitment to equity on the start line, and they are holding 50% or all registrations for women. Maria is a local rider and gives her insider scoop on the event, and what else you can do while you are there. She discusses with Brooke and Lael how to prepare for the race, from training to mindset. The three encourage all women to give it a try, even if you feel like it might be out of your comfort zone - you'll likely discover a community of like-minded women along the way!Toe learn more or register for the event go to: https://cyclingwestfjords.com/wfwc/ Follow the event on Instagram @cyclingwestfjords **Support the Girls Gone Gravel Podcast**InsideTracker: Get 20% off at insidetracker.com/feisty. Coalition Snow: Learn about Coalition Snow's Far Out trips at https://www.coalitionsnow.com/pages/far-outSaltStick: Use code FEISTY20 for 20% off all items on SaltStick.comMentioned in this episode:Inside Tracker - September 2022This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podsights - https://podsights.com/privacyChartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

Halló! Week two finds Rob and Ellie heading a third of the way round the country, from the south towards the Westfjords, for 'Rams' director Grímur Hákonarson's second feature film 'The County'. Arndís Hrönn Egilsdóttir plays Inga, one half of a farming couple left to fight a local farming co-op for their bullying and shady keep-it-in-the-community tactics. With true life story elements, calm and incredibly composed cinematography from Mart Taniel, and a complex central performance from Egilsdóttir, this is not just a rehash of elements seen before on the pod, but a fascinating look at how small communities may deal with the changing face of farming and commerce in Iceland. Also starring Sveinn Ólafur Gunnarsson, Sigurður Sigurjónsson, Þorsteinn Bachmann and Hannes Óli Ágústsson. Music by Valgeir Sigurðsson   Please subscribe/follow, rate and review on Spotify and Apple and Follow us on Twitter @KVIKMYNDAPOD and Instagram kvikmyndapod And if you fancy supporting us, why not sling us the cost of a coffee!   Artwork designed by Sophie Watts (justahappyspace)   Music by Branches Bare ('Half-light' from the EP 'In the Origami Folds of the Night You Rip the Seam of Sleep Wide Open)

Mateo Páez has stormed onto the ultra endurance/bikepack racing circuit in 2022. He started the year with a 3rd place finish at his debut bikepacking race: the Stagecoach 400, struggled with some gnarly weather at The Odyssey of the VOG, before bouncing back with another 3rd place finish at the inaugural Westfjords Way Challenge. In this episode, we chat about Matt's start in cycling, his first bikepack racing efforts, and then focus in on the unique experience of racing in Iceland at the equally unique Westfjords Way Challenge. Mandatory cultural stops? Lael Wilcox playing on a trampoline mid-race? Reykjavík road racing team tactics? This event had a little bit of everything...and we talk about it all!

On today's episode, David and I reflect on the things we've learned through this incredible adventure that was the Westfjords Way Challenge in Iceland. We discuss vulnerability, exposing yourself, we share highlights, and discuss community. Would we ever do this again? Please stick around until the end because the best part comes at 39:00 when we catch up with fellow participants after their race to hear what it all meant to them.  We catch up with Brooke Gaudy, Nicole Sin Quee, Kae Takeshita, Matteo Paez, Hannah Simon, Bahadïr, and Valentina.  Plus, we meet with Julie & Jan-Kees Pennings. 

On today's episode, we share our experience from the last stage of the Westfjords Way Challenge. Although it was the shortest in distance at 211km, this stage was definitely the hardest in terms of climbing and technical sections...which made it the longest day of all! Hear a very honest account from David sharing how he wanted to give up but found the strength to finish. We also hear an update from Nicole Sin Quee, we meet Jason Sears who doesn't want this adventure to end, and Carlie Lamke who has swollen knees but is dedicated to finishing. Plus, a friendship story from riders Elias Nielsson, Hallgrimur Amarson, and Kjartan Egholm. This episode is brought to you by https://xpedo.com/product/pedals/mtb/cxr-pro/ (Xpedo Pedals). Use code FEVER to get 25% off at purchase.

Today is a very much welcomed rest day at the Westfjords Way Challenge in Iceland. Everyone was very tired and we are starting the last stage at midnight, so today is about resetting and getting ready. On today's episode, I got to sit and chat with race organizers Tyler Wacker and Lynee Jacks. They tell us the crazy story of how two American students living in Iceland created this incredible stage race. We also discuss about what makes this event special. While walking around town, I also met some fellow race participants so we hear from Bahadir Güngör from Sweden, as well as Valentina Mancera Autrique from Mexico.

On today's episode, we have our longest day yet 248km, but about 10h of riding. We've had an epic bonk and everyone experienced a dark moment. The views were just as beautiful and all our aches and pains were remedied by pizza and a mid-ride dip in an Icelandic "Hot pot" (natural hot springs). Alors, Meet fellow riders: Chas (ex bike messenger turned ultra endurance racer), Nicole Sim Quee (50 year old bad ass energy ball crushing the challenge), & Bas from the Netherlands who does all the first editions of Ultra Racing! What a day! Today episode, and today's ride is brought to you by https://upika.ca/ (Upika Sports) sports hydration mix. Use code "Fever10" to get 10% off your first purchase. After 10 years of racing pro, I've finally found my favorite drink mix!

Day 2 at the Westfjords Way Challenge. Another 245km in the legs! We road on the most beautiful 30km stretch I've seen in my whole life! We at some cakes, stopped for soup, and visited a sheep farm. We had a wonderful group of 4 and although we are super tired now, it was an amazing day! In this episode, you'll hear about: A 10min recap of the day from David and I. (Our highlights, some bike details from David) Meet Alyssa Gonzalez who started riding a year ago and who is doing the WFW Challenge. Snippets from inside today's ride. Meet Hannah Simmons who is crushing on the bike and who shares information about Iceland being a very environmentally sustainable country. "Mariah The Cyclist" telling us how lucky we got with the weather today! Rebeka who welcomed us with cake and coffee at her farm (Holar Farm). An update from our friends Matteo Paez & Kae Takeashita Finally, Thomas a fellow racer from teaches us about the cycling culture in Iceland. This episode is brought to you by Hammerhead! Use code FEVER on www.hammerhead.io to get a free heart rate monitor when you purchase a Karoo2.

Stage 1 of the Westfjords Way Challenge delivered! On today's podcast, we bring you right into the action of the stage as most of the episode was recorded DURING the ride. Hear from, fellow racers RJ Bast from Wisconsin, Kai Takeashita from Japan, ultra endurance champion racer Lael Wilcox, photographer Rugile Kaladyte as well as Iceland's very own Salt Maker and Waffle business owner. Today's episode is brought to you by SRAM. The Westfjords Way Challenge, in Iceland is a 5 days/4 stages ultra endurance race. The route is 960km long, and the race will happen over 4 stages of more or less 225-250km. Although they are used to be racing cyclocross races at the World Cup level, this will be the first time that both Maghalie and David do an ultra-endurance race. 

This week, Maghalie and David are racing at the Westfjords Way Challenge, in Iceland. The route is 960km long, and the race will happen over 4 stages of more or less 225-250km. Although they are used to be racing cyclocross races at the World Cup level, this will be the first time that both Maghalie and David do an ultra-endurance race. Throughout the event, we will share daily short episodes about our experience. We will also attempt to have a different participant of the race on each episode, to meet cool people and enforce the fact that a wide diversity of people can accomplish such a challenge. Today, we arrived in Iceland, purchased a bike, and against all odds made it to Isafjordur for the start! The adventure has already started! We also meet with fellow racers Brook and Matteo, and organizer Tyler Wacker shares a few ideas with us. This episode is brought to you by Hammerhead. USe code FEVERR to get a free Heart Rate Monitor when purchasing a Karoo 2 at www.hammerhead.io

A stunning backdrop makes every party better. No backdrop better proves this than Iceland's Westfjords, which served as the setting for the first-ever Detour Discotheque earlier this year. Jonny Ensall, Ink's Global Editor in Chief and the mastermind behind the shindig, joins No Blackout Dates this week to talk about how he wrangled a crew of top-notch DJs, influencers, and revelers together to join him in the remote, tiny Icelandic village of Thingeyri for a “party at the end of the world.”Eben was fortunate enough to attend the event, so this episode serves as the official debrief between the party planner and the consummate party-goer. With Tim as their witness, the pair discuss such pressing topics as: Why disco was – and is – the best party scene society has ever known, why Icelanders fervently embraced Jonny's festival concept, and how Eben sweet-talked his way into a vodka on the rocks when the bartender was instructed not to pour straight alcohol. In Hot Takes, Tim and Eben discuss the awkwardness of being on a plane full of people you're about to have a crazy life experience with but haven't yet met. And, the pair dive into the metrics behind eating hot food in winter and cold in summer, or vice versa.News of the day: Sleep With Over 1 Million Bees on the First Bee Farm on Airbnb Time To Visit Europe: Dollar-To-Euro Exchange Rate Is the Closest It's Been in Years Relevant links: Detour Discotheque Jonny's MuckRack page Eben's Instagram Tim's Instagram

"Takk fyrir síðast" is a greeting in icelandic when you see your friends again.. (That's how I used to greet Palli every time I saw him. It made me happy.) All I want in my life is tons of adventures to look back on. 在我的人生里，我想要的只是無數值得回顧的冒險。 The train ride to Copenhagen from Hamburg was incredible because the train would drive into a gigantic ferry boat to continue the journey at sea. By the time we had settled in it was close to sunset and I was mesmerised with the view from the top deck of the boat. 從漢堡到哥本哈根火車的旅程非常令人不可思議，因為火車會開到超級大的渡輪在海中繼續前行。當我們進入游輪的時候，已經是日落的時分，所以我對於在船上頂部甲板上看到的景色感到非常的著迷。 Rikke, my Danish friend who I had met in Barcelona two years ago in a Spanish lesson, came to pick me up at the station in Copenhagen. She had invited me two years earlier when she left and we'd always kept touch. Although we had only briefly met and shared a meal once in Barcelona, I felt like we had been friends for a long time. Rikke struck me as a very gentle woman who had great taste and philosophy in art and life when we first met. She was also passionate about art and had been dedicated to helping artists get their work seen and appreciated around the world for many years. She was very warm and open with me, taking good care of me while I was in Copenhagen and showing me around the museums and cafes of downtown Copenhagen. There is something very special about reconnecting with old friends I met on the road in their home cities. 我的丹麥朋友Rikke是我兩年前在巴塞羅那上西班牙語課認識的，她來哥本哈根的車站接我。兩年前我們剛認識的時候，她就曾邀請我到哥本哈根找她，我們從那時就一直保持聯繫。雖然我們只有見過並且在巴塞隆納吃過一次飯，但我感覺我們就像是好久的朋友。Rikke給我的第一印象就是一個在生活和藝術都非常有品位的女性。她也對藝術非常的熱衷，並且多年來投身於幫助藝術家的作品被世界看到和欣賞。她對我非常的溫暖和敞開，當我在哥本哈根的時候也十分照顧我並且帶我去市中心的咖啡廳和博物館參觀。能夠和老朋友在他們的家鄉又再度連結上感覺真的十分地特別。 Then Palli decided to fly out from Reykjavik in Iceland and visit me in Copenhagen! Palli and I became really close after I visited Iceland early that year, and we had traveled to many cities together after my visit to Reykjavik. He had come to stay with me in Barcelona in March for a week. Then we visited Vilnius in Lithuania in May. We also had a summer camping trip to the Westfjords in Iceland and had often talked about visiting Copenhagen together. 然後Palli決定從冰島的雷克雅未克飛來哥本哈根來看我！Palli和我是在2019年初在冰島旅行認識的，我們變得很親近，從我在雷克雅未克的旅行之後，我們共同去了許多城市。三月的時候他到巴塞羅那拜訪我一個星期，然後五月的時候我們去立陶宛的維爾紐斯玩。我們夏天的時候又去冰島的西峽灣一起露營，在這段期間，我們時常聊到要一起來哥本哈根玩。 During the three years I was in Europe, I had been out on dates with some incredible men, however the only one I had a unique connection with was this Icelandic man. Palli was tall, good-looking, intelligent, strong in character and had a heart of gold. Although he was six years younger than I was, we could talk for hours on many different and interesting topics. Most importantly, he could understand my humor and always responded back with quick wit. I enjoyed looking at his grey eyes and hearing his life stories and traveling together. 在我住在歐洲的三年間，我和幾個非常棒的男人出去約會幾次，然而我只有和這個冰島男有獨特的連結。Palli又高又帥，聰明又性格很強，然而也有一顆像金子一樣的心。雖然他比我小六歲，我們總是可以聊好多不同和有趣的話題。更重要的是，他總是能理解我的幽默，而且常常可以很快速地又聰明地回應我的笑話。我非常喜歡看著他灰色的眼睛並聽他訴說他的人生故事，還有一起旅行。 Palli was also the only person who I had shared a train ride with on this Eurail journey, which made him even more special and unique in my life. We took the train from Copenhagen and went across the border to arrive in Malmo in Sweden, where we rented an Airbnb. I finally had some rest after 40 days of non-stop moving and meeting people. With Palli, I could be totally relaxed and let my guard down, and even be vulnerable at times. I felt Palli was the person who understood me the most in the world. 讓Palli更加在我生命中的地位獨特的原因是，他也是唯一一個和我一起搭上這趟環歐火車的人。我們從哥本哈根搭火車跨越國界來到了在瑞典的馬爾默。在那裡一起租了一個民宿。我終於可以在40天的馬不停蹄地認識新朋友和旅行後，來休息一下。和Palli在一起，我可以全然的放鬆，並且將我的防備放下，甚至有時可以展現我的脆弱。我感覺Palli是這個世界上最瞭解我的人。 While Palli was with me, bad news came from China where the publisher made a sudden decision against publishing my book due to the tension between China and Taiwan. I had spent 2000 euros hiring an illustrator, sent the draft, and finalized the book and all the contracts that were sent from China and sent back from Spain. All the back and forth now seemed like a useless act. Losing money also made it feel like a scam as this book had been part of the reason that I wanted to move back to Asia. I had even planned a book signing in Shanghai on Christmas day. I couldn't help but burst into tears. Seeing Palli lying by my side, I felt I might have made a big mistake by leaving Europe and having sold all my things in Spain, there was no turning back. I felt so humiliated and also saddened by the situation. Palli knew that I had been working on that book for the whole year, with all of the ups and downs that come with writing a book. He got up and played a song on his phone. My tears dried up quickly. It was magical. 然而當我和Palli在一起的時候，來自中國的出版商忽然傳來了壞消息，因為中國和台灣的緊張關係，他們決定不出版我的書了。我已經花了2000歐元請了插畫師，把書的草稿送上去了，還完成了所有從中國寄到西班牙的合約。這樣的來來回回的，現在看起來一點用處都沒有。因為出版書而損失錢這件事更讓我覺得好像被騙了。也是由於這本書的出版，才讓我想要回去亞洲，我甚至計劃聖誕節那天在上海舉辦簽書會。我忍不住哭了起來，看見Palli在我身旁躺著，我更覺得離開歐洲的我可能犯了一個大錯，然而我已經把我在西班牙的所有東西都賣掉了，已經沒有回頭的機會。Palli知道我為這本書忙了一整年還有在寫這本書所有七上八下的心情。他聽到我在哭就起身用他的手機播了一首歌。我的眼淚停止了。真的好神奇。 “Always look on the bright side of life…” He also sang along with it. 他跟著音樂一起哼著：「永遠看生活光明的一面...」 Like each of us, Palli had experienced some unpleasant events in his life but he was also often the brightest and the most positive person I knew. If he could still see life this way after all the unpleasant events, I could too. Maybe something better was meant to come later. I was also thankful that while I was having the hardest moment of my trip, I wasn't alone. 就像我們一樣，Palli也遭遇了許多在生命中令人不悅的事件，但是他是我認識最正面積極的人。如果他可以在他生命中發生的不幸的事之後，還可以用這樣的正面積極的角度看世界的話，我想我也可以。或許更好的事情注定晚一點才會來。我很感恩在我旅程中最難熬的一刻的時候，我並不是一個人。 Time seemed slow and the air had a bittersweet feeling when we were in Malmo. However, it was also time to say goodbye to Palli and continue on the rest of my journey before leaving Europe. Palli gave me lots of kisses in those three days we were together. Even though that could be our last meeting, we both knew we would cherish those memories we created dearly. 我們在馬爾默的時光感覺好慢，空氣中也夾雜的苦苦甜甜的感覺。然而，是時候要和Palli說再見了，繼續我在離開歐洲前的旅行。Palli在我們在一起的三天給了我好多吻。雖然這次可能是我們最後一次見面了，我們彼此都知道我們會珍惜共同創造的回憶。 Stay tuned...there's much more to come! In the next episode I'll be sharing interesting stories that occured in Budapest, Hungary. 敬請期待，還有好多故事呢！ 下一集我會和你分享我在匈牙利布達佩斯旅行的有趣故事。 從我的英語口語訓練營摘錄《想和你用英語聊聊天》如何回答 Excuse me. Could you please tell me how to get to Taipei 101? 對不起，你能告訴我怎麼樣去台北101嗎？ You can go along this road and turn left at the first crossing, then you'll see it. 沿著這條路一直往前走，在第一個十字路口左轉，你就可以看到它了。 I'm going that way, follow me, please! 我正要去那，請跟我走吧！

Easter in Iceland is a time that many Icelanders look forward to because they get a long holiday, and they get to indulge in even more chocolate, sugary drinks, and delicious food. Here is what you should know before visiting during this holiday. Religion in Iceland For most people around the world that celebrate Easter, this holiday is very religious. While more than 260,000 Icelanders are registered as Lutheran, most of them are not religious nor is Easter in Iceland centered around religious activities. Keep in mind that there are about 377,000 people that live in the country. One of the reasons many Icelanders are registered as Lutheran, is that it used to be that as soon as a person was born in the country, they were automatically registered to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland. Weather to Expect & Clothes to Pack It's important to understand that Spring in Iceland is about the days getting longer and not about blooming flowers or even the weather being that much warmer. I suggest packing clothing that is appropriate for winter. If you need help with what to pack, you can download my free Ultimate Packing Checklist. It has individual lists for summer and winter. Seeing the Northern Lights Around Easter in Iceland It is possible to see the Northern Lights during March and April. However, as the days continue to get longer and brighter, the possibility of seeing them diminishes greatly. It helps to check the Icelandic Meteorological Office's page about the level of Aurora activity here. Even during the darkest days of winter, it's not guaranteed that you will see them. It helps to keep that in mind, so you can manage your expectations Easter Traditions in Iceland There is a 5-day weekend, which is quite nice. We get off on Maundy Thursday until Easter Monday. Most Icelanders take this time to go north for as nice skiing holiday or even go abroad. One of the biggest parts of Easter here is buying giant Icelandic chocolate eggs that are hollow on the inside so they can be stuffed with candy and an Icelandic proverb. Páskaöl or Easter drink is essentially malt and orange soda (appelsín) mixed. Icelanders consume a lot of this over the holiday. It's non-alcoholic but filled with a lot of sugar. Easter dinner is normally lamb, green peas, picked red cabbage, caramelized sugar potatoes, corn, salad, and mushroom gravy. Some people add or take away some things but what I mentioned is pretty much what most Icelanders eat. Of course, there is some type of dessert. Because I‘m plant-based, I eat a vegan wellington in place of the lamb and a vegan chocolate egg The growth of microbreweries in Iceland continues to expand. Páskabjór (Easter beer) is very popular for this holiday, so I highly recommend trying a variety of beers, if you drink alcohol. Please note that you have to go to the government owned alcohol stores to buy alcohol in Iceland, if you are not getting it at a bar or restaurant. These stores are closed every weekend and every national holiday. So, they are closed on the Thursday and Friday before Easter, as well as the Monday after Easter. You can purchase the food I mentioned and chocolate eggs in Iceland in any of the major grocery stores, such as Krónan, Bónus, Hagkaup, and Nettó, but alcohol has to be purchased at a vínbúðin. Important things to keep in mind as a visitor Due to the long holiday, many stores are either closed or have limited hours. I highly recommend checking websites of places to see what their hours will be during Easter. Easter mug on the All Things Iceland merch shop If you would like an adorable Icelandic Easter themed gift for you or a loved on this season, check out the Easter mug on the All Things Iceland Merch shop. Festivals Happening during Easter in Iceland Aldrei fór ég suður – This annual festival is held in Ísafjörður in the Westfjords during Easter weekend. The Icelandic artist Mugison, who I interviewed years ago,

Halló! It's the penultimate week of Rob and Ellie's third journey round Iceland and this time they're in Svarthamar in the Westfjords for a rural tale of grief and a unique way of dealing with it - Metal music! Director Ragnar Bragason's 'Metalhead' stars Thora Bjorg Helga as Hera, a young lady who witnesses her brother's death and finds solace in the music of the bands he loved - Judas Priest, Megadeth, Teaze etc. With a soundtrack unlike any heard before on the podcast, these unusual elements come together brilliantly as Hera and her parents finally find a way through their guilt and grief.  Also starring Ingvar Sigurðsson, Halldóra Geirharðsdóttir and Sveinn Ólafur Gunnarsson.   Please subscribe/follow, rate and review on Spotify and Apple and Follow us on Twitter @KVIKMYNDAPOD and Instagram kvikmyndapod And if you fancy supporting us, why not sling us the cost of a coffee!   Artwork designed by Sophie Watts (justahappyspace)   Music by Branches Bare ('Half-light' from the EP 'In the Origami Folds of the Night You Rip the Seam of Sleep Wide Open)

Urður Skúladóttir, hjúkrunarfræðingur: Hellisheiði hefur verið lokað fjórtán sinnum það sem af er ári og í dag í ellefta sinn bara í febrúar. Hvaða áhrif hefur þetta á fólk sem getur ekki unnið heima þann daginn heldur verður að komast til vinnu? Eða frá vinnu? Við heyrum í hjúkrunarfræðingi sem er búsett á Selfossi en þarf einmitt að komast á kvöldvakt á Bráðamóttökunni í Fossvogi í dag. Þórdís Þórarinsdóttir, sérfræðingur í kynbótum hjá ráðgjafamiðstöð landbúnaðarins: Kynbætur í dyrum, búgripum, eru fræði sem hefur fleygt fram - bændur sem framleiða afurðir úr skepnum stóla langflestir á kynbætur til að fá sem mest út úr dýrunum. En hvað þýðir það, hvernig er þetta gert, hvaða áhrif hefur þetta á dýrin og hver er nýjasta tæknin sem er verið að nota? Og er hægt að kynbæta út í hið óendanlega? Málfarsmínúta Halldóra Björk Norðdhal: Forvitnast um hjólakeppnina Áskorun Vestfjarðarleiðarinnar, eða Westfjords way Challenge, og hjólaleikinn Hjólað á Vestfjörðum. Skólaverkefni sem vatt upp á sig. Í júní er von á um hundrað manns sem ætla sér að hjóla í kringum Vestfirði 960 kílómetra leið á fimm dögum.

Urður Skúladóttir, hjúkrunarfræðingur: Hellisheiði hefur verið lokað fjórtán sinnum það sem af er ári og í dag í ellefta sinn bara í febrúar. Hvaða áhrif hefur þetta á fólk sem getur ekki unnið heima þann daginn heldur verður að komast til vinnu? Eða frá vinnu? Við heyrum í hjúkrunarfræðingi sem er búsett á Selfossi en þarf einmitt að komast á kvöldvakt á Bráðamóttökunni í Fossvogi í dag. Þórdís Þórarinsdóttir, sérfræðingur í kynbótum hjá ráðgjafamiðstöð landbúnaðarins: Kynbætur í dyrum, búgripum, eru fræði sem hefur fleygt fram - bændur sem framleiða afurðir úr skepnum stóla langflestir á kynbætur til að fá sem mest út úr dýrunum. En hvað þýðir það, hvernig er þetta gert, hvaða áhrif hefur þetta á dýrin og hver er nýjasta tæknin sem er verið að nota? Og er hægt að kynbæta út í hið óendanlega? Málfarsmínúta Halldóra Björk Norðdhal: Forvitnast um hjólakeppnina Áskorun Vestfjarðarleiðarinnar, eða Westfjords way Challenge, og hjólaleikinn Hjólað á Vestfjörðum. Skólaverkefni sem vatt upp á sig. Í júní er von á um hundrað manns sem ætla sér að hjóla í kringum Vestfirði 960 kílómetra leið á fimm dögum.

On this bonus episode, Kathryn is chatting about all things Iceland with Lael Wilcox, Brooke Goudy, Lynnee Jacks and Maria Ögn Guðmundsdóttir. This summer they will all be taking part in the Westfjords Way Challenge, a 5-day stage race in the Westfjords of Iceland that will cover 595 miles over some of the country's most remote and beautiful landscape. Lynnee is the co-director of the Westfjords Way Challenge, she wants everyone to know that it is more than just a race; the event is about meaningful interaction with the people and places you will encounter along the way. Lynnee and her organizing team have also made a commitment to equity on the start line, and they are holding 50% or all registrations for women.   Maria is a local rider and gives her insider scoop on the event, and what else you can do while you are there. She discusses with Brooke and Lael how to prepare for the race, from training to mindset. The three encourage all women to give it a try, even if you feel like it might be out of your comfort zone - you'll likely discover a community of like-minded women along the way! Toe learn more or register for the event go to: https://cyclingwestfjords.com/wfwc/ (https://cyclingwestfjords.com/wfwc/)  Follow the event on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/cyclingwestfjords/ (@cyclingwestfjords)  **Support the Girls Gone Gravel Podcast** InsideTracker: get 20% off at https://info.insidetracker.com/feisty (insidetracker.com/feisty)  Zealios: get 20% off with code GIRLSGONEGRAVEL at https://teamzealios.com/ (https://teamzealios.com/) This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podsights - https://podsights.com/privacy Chartable - https://chartable.com/privacy

As a child, Eydís Evensen would stare out at the Westfjords as the wind howled around her, pretending to conduct the clouds. In these daydreams, she was a meteorological maestro: controlling the Icelandic stormfronts in the distance, bending the weather and the world to her will like an orchestra. “The weather was intense where I grew up but so inspiring. There was such harshness to our winters, but at the same time, such beauty. I used to sit there for hours,” recalls the Blönduós-born composer. Years later, Evensen is still finding musical expressions for the awe she feels when staring out at the vastness of nature. Eydis and I spoke about her album, living in Iceland, learning about her own needs as an artist and staying genuine. Learn more on Dreams Not Memes. @eydisevensen (Instagram) @eydis_evensen (Twitter) @eydisevensen (Facebook) www.eydisevensen.com

Halló! For the third week of Rob and Ellie's second journey through Icelandic cinema, they remain in the Westfjords. And this time it's even colder! Starring 'X-Men' alumnus Tómas Lemarquis as the title character, 'Nói albinói' is a strange indie comedy-drama about a disenchanted teenager who wants (and needs) to escape his isolated Icelandic town. The question on everybody's lips is "is he super intelligent? or is he the opposite?" That's for the audience to decide after a trip around the town where Nói meets a girl, digs a grave and attempts to hold a bank teller hostage! Dagur Kári's debut film also features the familiar Icelandic actors Þorsteinn Gunnarsson and Þröstur Leó Gunnarsson as well as noted artist Elín Hansdóttir in an early acting role. ----more---- Next week's film can be found here   Please subscribe, rate and review and Follow us on Twitter @KVIKMYNDAPOD and Instagram kvikmyndapod   Artwork designed by Sophie Watts (justahappyspace)   Music by Branches Bare ('Half-light' from the EP 'In the Origami Folds of the Night You Rip the Seam of Sleep Wide Open)

Happy October! The podcast is back! Join me and my delightful new guest in a journey to the Great North - Shayan Pandole is a food & beverage industry veteran who found herself leaving New York and moving to Iceland to join her husband's family restaurant in the remote Westfjords. The Soho House and Ritz Carlton seem a world apart from the fish restaurant in a medieval timber tavern where I met Shayan while traveling in Iceland this summer. Take a trip with us to experience this beautiful country and different way of life!Listen now below or at www.theindianedit.com and please take a second to rate us wherever you're listening so the voices of these inspiring women can be heard all over the world!SHOWNOTES FOR EPISODE 58:Visit Tjöruhúsið in the beautiful town of ÍsafjörðurConnect with the restaurant on FacebookConnect with Shayan via her instagramBOOKS and MORE:Love in the Time of Cholera by Gabriel Garcia MarquezHaruki Murakami's books on Bookshop.orgKazuo Ishiguro's books on Bookshop.orgMoonstone: The Boy Who Never Was: A Novel by SjónHeida: A Shepherd at the Edge of the World by Steinunn Siguroardottir Follow us on Instagram for more on our guests and everything we mentioned in this episode! Special thanks to Varun Dhabe and the team @ Boon Castle / Flying Carpet Productions for audio post-production engineering!

Halló! The next leg of Rob and Ellie's journey takes them to the breathtaking yet creepy af Westfjords of Iceland. Adapted from the novel by Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, Óskar Thór Axelsson's movie version of 'I Remember You' combines the classic Scandi noir with the ghost story. Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson plays Freyr, a father looking for answers surrounding his son's disappearance. Working with the police to help solve a series of murders his story becomes entwined with three friends attempting to renovate a possibly haunted guesthouse in a very remote town. Also starring Ágústa Eva Erlendsdóttir, Elma Stefanía Ágústsdóttir and Thor Kristjansson this is the perfect story as the Autumn settles in and the days grow darker...   Please subscribe, rate and review and Follow us on Twitter @KVIKMYNDAPOD and Instagram kvikmyndapod   Artwork designed by Sophie Watts (justahappyspace)   Music by Branches Bare ('Half-light' from the EP 'In the Origami Folds of the Night You Rip the Seam of Sleep Wide Open)

All I want in my life is tons of adventures to look back on.The train ride to Copenhagen from Hamburg was incredible because the train would drive into a gigantic ferry boat to continue the journey at sea. By the time we had settled in it was close to sunset and I was mesmerised with the view from the top deck of the boat. Rikka, my Danish friend who I had met in Barcelona two years ago in a Spanish lesson, came to pick me up at the station in Copenhagen. She had invited me two years earlier when she left and we'd always kept touch. Although we had only briefly met and shared a meal once in Barcelona, I felt like we had been friends for a long time. Rikka struck me as a very gentle woman who had great taste and philosophy in art and life when we first met. She was also passionate about art and had been dedicated to helping artists get their work seen and appreciated around the world for many years. She was very warm and open with me, taking good care of me while I was in Copenhagen and showing me around the museums and cafes of downtown Copenhagen. There is something very special about reconnecting with old friends I met on the road in their home cities. Then Palli decided to fly out from Reykjavik in Iceland and visit me in Copenhagen! Palli and I became really close after I visited Iceland early that year, and we had traveled to many cities together after my visit to Reykjavik. He had come to stay with me in Barcelona in March for a week. Then we visited Vilnius in Lithuania in May. We also had a summer camping trip to the Westfjords in Iceland and had often talked about visiting Copenhagen together. During the three years I was in Europe, I had been out on dates with some incredible men, however the only one I had a unique connection with was this Icelandic man. Palli was tall, good-looking, intelligent, strong in character and had a heart of gold. Although he was six years younger than I was, we could talk for hours on many different and interesting topics. Most importantly, he could understand my humor and always responded back with quick wit. I enjoyed looking at his grey eyes and hearing his life stories and traveling together. Palli was also the only person who I had shared a train ride with on this Eurail journey, which made him even more special and unique in my life. We took the train from Copenhagen and went across the border to arrive in Malmo in Sweden, where we rented an Airbnb. I finally had some rest after 40 days of non-stop moving and meeting people. With Palli, I could be totally relaxed and let my guard down, and even be vulnerable at times. I felt Palli was the person who understood me the most in the world.While Palli was with me, bad news came from China where the publisher made a sudden decision against publishing my book due to the tension between China and Taiwan. I had spent 2000 euros hiring an illustrator, sent the draft, and finalized the book and all the contracts that were sent from China and sent back from Spain. All the back and forth now seemed like a useless act. Losing money also made it feel like a scam as this book had been part of the reason that I wanted to move back to Asia. I had even planned a book signing in Shanghai on Christmas day. I couldn't help but burst into tears. Seeing Palli lying by my side, I felt I might have made a big mistake by leaving Europe and having sold all my things in Spain, there was no turning back. I felt so humiliated and also saddened by the situation. Palli knew that I had been working on that book for the whole year, with all of the ups and downs that come with writing a book. He got up and played a song on his phone. My tears dried up quickly. It was magical.“Always look on the bright side of life…” He also sang along with it. Like each of us, Palli had experienced some unpleasant events in his life but he was also often the brightest and the most positive person I knew. If he could still see life this way after all the unpleasant events, I could too. Maybe something better was meant to come later. I was also thankful that while I was having the hardest moment of my trip, I wasn't alone.Time seemed slow and the air had a bittersweet feeling when we were in Malmo. However, it was also time to say goodbye to Palli and continue on the rest of my journey before leaving Europe. Palli gave me lots of kisses in those three days we were together. Even though that could be our last meeting, we both knew we would cherish those memories we created dearly.Stay tuned...there's much more to come! In the next episode I'll be sharing interesting stories that occured in Budapest, Hungary.**参与我为期6个月的口语训练营参加每日的直播课程/旅行英语训练营，请到我的公众微信账号IFLYCLUB，回复：训练营，报名最新一期的训练营口语课程。****本系列会将中英的版本分开录制，想要进行更深入的英语听力学习或训练，可以听伴随在中文版本的下一集。得到本集节目的中英文文本，预定环欧火车旅行的资讯和网站，当时的照片和影片甚至路线图，请关注公众微信IFLYCLUB，回复文字“环欧火车21“

All I want in my life is tons of adventures to look back on.The train ride to Copenhagen from Hamburg was incredible because the train would drive into a gigantic ferry boat to continue the journey at sea. By the time we had settled in it was close to sunset and I was mesmerised with the view from the top deck of the boat. Rikka, my Danish friend who I had met in Barcelona two years ago in a Spanish lesson, came to pick me up at the station in Copenhagen. She had invited me two years earlier when she left and we'd always kept touch. Although we had only briefly met and shared a meal once in Barcelona, I felt like we had been friends for a long time. Rikka struck me as a very gentle woman who had great taste and philosophy in art and life when we first met. She was also passionate about art and had been dedicated to helping artists get their work seen and appreciated around the world for many years. She was very warm and open with me, taking good care of me while I was in Copenhagen and showing me around the museums and cafes of downtown Copenhagen. There is something very special about reconnecting with old friends I met on the road in their home cities. Then Palli decided to fly out from Reykjavik in Iceland and visit me in Copenhagen! Palli and I became really close after I visited Iceland early that year, and we had traveled to many cities together after my visit to Reykjavik. He had come to stay with me in Barcelona in March for a week. Then we visited Vilnius in Lithuania in May. We also had a summer camping trip to the Westfjords in Iceland and had often talked about visiting Copenhagen together. During the three years I was in Europe, I had been out on dates with some incredible men, however the only one I had a unique connection with was this Icelandic man. Palli was tall, good-looking, intelligent, strong in character and had a heart of gold. Although he was six years younger than I was, we could talk for hours on many different and interesting topics. Most importantly, he could understand my humor and always responded back with quick wit. I enjoyed looking at his grey eyes and hearing his life stories and traveling together. Palli was also the only person who I had shared a train ride with on this Eurail journey, which made him even more special and unique in my life. We took the train from Copenhagen and went across the border to arrive in Malmo in Sweden, where we rented an Airbnb. I finally had some rest after 40 days of non-stop moving and meeting people. With Palli, I could be totally relaxed and let my guard down, and even be vulnerable at times. I felt Palli was the person who understood me the most in the world.While Palli was with me, bad news came from China where the publisher made a sudden decision against publishing my book due to the tension between China and Taiwan. I had spent 2000 euros hiring an illustrator, sent the draft, and finalized the book and all the contracts that were sent from China and sent back from Spain. All the back and forth now seemed like a useless act. Losing money also made it feel like a scam as this book had been part of the reason that I wanted to move back to Asia. I had even planned a book signing in Shanghai on Christmas day. I couldn't help but burst into tears. Seeing Palli lying by my side, I felt I might have made a big mistake by leaving Europe and having sold all my things in Spain, there was no turning back. I felt so humiliated and also saddened by the situation. Palli knew that I had been working on that book for the whole year, with all of the ups and downs that come with writing a book. He got up and played a song on his phone. My tears dried up quickly. It was magical.“Always look on the bright side of life…” He also sang along with it. Like each of us, Palli had experienced some unpleasant events in his life but he was also often the brightest and the most positive person I knew. If he could still see life this way after all the unpleasant events, I could too. Maybe something better was meant to come later. I was also thankful that while I was having the hardest moment of my trip, I wasn't alone.Time seemed slow and the air had a bittersweet feeling when we were in Malmo. However, it was also time to say goodbye to Palli and continue on the rest of my journey before leaving Europe. Palli gave me lots of kisses in those three days we were together. Even though that could be our last meeting, we both knew we would cherish those memories we created dearly.Stay tuned...there's much more to come! In the next episode I'll be sharing interesting stories that occured in Budapest, Hungary.**参与我为期6个月的口语训练营参加每日的直播课程/旅行英语训练营，请到我的公众微信账号IFLYCLUB，回复：训练营，报名最新一期的训练营口语课程。****本系列会将中英的版本分开录制，想要进行更深入的英语听力学习或训练，可以听伴随在中文版本的下一集。得到本集节目的中英文文本，预定环欧火车旅行的资讯和网站，当时的照片和影片甚至路线图，请关注公众微信IFLYCLUB，回复文字“环欧火车21“

Alex Elliott is joined this week by Astrid Fehling, administrative director of education and teaching at the University Centre of the Westfjords. The programme was produced by Lydía Grétarsdóttir. Highlights this week include a broken ferry, waiting for lava, quake anxiety, vaccinations, and leaking 10 Years.

Alex Elliott is joined this week by the RÚV broadcast journalist Birgir Þór Harðarson and on the telephone from the Westfjords by Alex Tyas. This week's highlights include: a remarkable week for Icelandair and its cabin crew, a lot of earthquakes, six safe countries, and an orange weather warning in the middle of summer.

Valur Grettisson and Poppy Askham go over Iceland's latest COVID-19 news including travel advice, an outbreak of the virus in a Westfjords nursing home and discussions about PPE supplies in Iceland. As we start the week during which Iceland's outbreak is predicted to peak, over 1500 Icelanders are infected and six people have died from the virus.

Alex Elliott is joined this week by journalists Anna Sigríður Einarsdóttir and Iceland Review's Ragnar Tómas Hallgrímsson. The programme was produced by Lydía Grétarsdóttir. This week's highlights include: the devastating avalanches in the Westfjords, the tragic loss of two tourists in bad weather, the fortunes of Iceland's men's handball team so far, and local government workers' struggle for better wages and conditions.

Happy New Year, SOTAns! We are kicking off 2020 with some great art-of-the-Midwest-and-beyond content, with a whole new year of it to come! In the words of Sarah Kuenzler, “Let's GO!” Can we just talk about Lucas, Kansas for a moment? Wait, never heard of it? Well, listen on in because it's a favorite art pilgrimage, listed on Artsy along with sites like the Getty. Next, we talk about just why is it so hard to get a job in art?? Why, though? We talk about personal experiences and greater factors at play in the scarcity of stable art employment in general. Lastly, but not leastly, we have a fun and informational interview with local artist, Alyssa Baguss! She has a show up NOW at the MAEP gallery at Mia and has an artist talk coming up on the 16th! Tickets are free, but you gotta grab em' now! References: Our Readers' Favorite Art Destinations, from a Kansas Town to the Westfjords of Iceland – Artsy Alyssa Baguss on MNArtists --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sota/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/sota/support