Iceland

European Fliers urged to be vigilant following volcanic eruption

by Gap Year Escape · 0 comments

People travelling in Europe are being warned to remain vigilant following the eruption of an Icelandic volcano in May, as fears of further disruption to flights abound.

The Grimsvotn volcano is Iceland’s most active and in May this year an eruption sent plumes of black ash into the stratosphere, causing chaos at European airports as flights were grounded and travellers left stranded for days as they waited until the ash cleared.

While the worst of the May eruption seems to be over, volcanologists have not ruled out the possibility of an extended period of activity from Grimsvotn over the next few weeks and months.

This danger prompted travel insurance expert Bob Atkinson, of moneysupermarket.com, to advise anyone travelling in Europe to take the necessary precautions such as worldwide travel insurance.

He said: “As news of the Icelandic volcano eruption hits, with it brings the same travel uncertainty as we experienced in April 2010. At this stage, it is business as usual except for flights to and from Iceland. For those who have booked a trip to Iceland, check with your tour operator or airline for the latest travel information.

“If you are travelling as part of an ATOL covered package, your tour operator will be able to advise on your total travel plans.  It is the responsibility of the tour operator to cover all costs should air space be disrupted.  Those travellers still in the UK are entitled to refunds or transfers, and for those stranded overseas will be kept in accommodation at the expense of the tour operator.”

At moneysupermarket, travel insurance compare and contrast tools and facilities help travellers to find the best deals on cover against problems caused by natural disasters.

Mr Atkinson added: “If you have independent arrangements then you need to speak to your airline as well as hotel companies and any others you have bookings with to check your options for cancellation, refunds and changes. Check your travel insurance policy, look for natural disaster and weather related clauses and understand what is covered in the policy. This will cover for things such as loss of travel arrangements, cost of new travel arrangements and travel delay.

“Should airspace actually close, travellers are urged not to do anything without speaking to their airline or tour operator first, checking their website for further information.”

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Three incredible experiences in Reykjavik

by Gap Year Escape · 2 comments

I can’t say it really crossed my mind to visit Reykjavik whilst backpacking; tight budget and Iceland are not traditionally synonymous. However, as I discovered recently, it is possible to comfortably mix the two. Don’t be put off by expensive reputations when planning your gap year; Iceland will be an experience you will treasure for the rest of your life. For accommodation there are some pretty inexpensive hostels as well as some good B&B’s. To eat out in Reykjavik is never going to be ‘cheap as chips’ but if you keep your eyes peeled and check out the menus before going inside – then you can keep control of the pennies.

Despite my travels there are still a fair few things on my bucket list and a long weekend in Reykjavik hit three in one go. As our taxi took us through the impeccably clean streets, the brightly coloured rooftops glinting beneath the sparkling spring snow, we felt an immediate affinity with the city. And don’t let the placid exterior fool you, there’s vibrancy to the worlds’ Northern most city that burns bright with the midnight oil. By day there are lovely walks to be taken and excellent galleries and museums to visit and by night some cool clubs and bars to hang out in, but for me there were three things I just had to do…

Blue Lagoon and Gulfoss

One of Iceland’s most famous natural wonders, the Blue Lagoon isn’t a cheesy 80’s teen movie but a geothermal spa in the midst of a lava field that not only cleanses the skin but also the soul. As we soaked in the steaming waters we were blown away by the tranquillity. The clear azure sky hovered over the turquoise water like a security blanket. I could have stayed there forever, but reluctantly we continued on. We were glad we did when we saw the stunning waterfall of Gulfoss and the incredible spouting hot springs of Geysir and Strokkur….well worth a visit.

Whale Watching

This is literally an awesome activity that everyone should experience at least once in their life. Take one of the boat trips that depart Reykjavik harbour daily and you’ll have an excellent chance of spotting a whole array of these majestic animals. We were lucky enough to spot mink, sperm, humpback and orca on our trip. Blue whales are also a regular visitor to the area.

Northern Lights

Aurora Borealis is one of the most spectacular natural phenomenons this planet has to offer. The best time to glimpse them is with a clear sky (sadly not guaranteed) between September and April. We took coach tour from the city but private options are also available. No matter how scientific your mind, I defy anyone not to be blown away by the magical swirl of neon green and purple that flicker and ripple across the sky. It was an experience truly out of this world.

Author Bio: Liah S Thorley

Liah S Thorley is a travel writer and novelist from the UK. She has travelled extensively and particularly enjoys history and the arts.

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