We drove four hours for Pea Soup.

My fist visit to Solvang was shortly after I moved to Southern California. One of my dear friends and I drove up for the day. I remember it being a super cute little town-and very unique. Something my parents may enjoy! So here I am again, back in Solvang some 7 years later--visiting some of my favorites like the Presidio Winery Tasting Room (It's the only wine club I've managed to keep) and trying some new spots like the famous Andersen's Pea Soup. So much fun!  Solvang is small enough to explore in an afternoon and my parent's absolutely loved it. It was helpful I had a few free nights at the Hotel Corque--right downtown.

Eat the fish meat. Carry the fish skin.

The food in Reykjavik, no surprise, is heavy on the seafood. Lamb stew—for those cold days-- is also a popular dish.  Be sure to check-out my Interview with Chef Fridgeir of Hotel Holt’s Gallery Restaurant. The Gallery Restaurant is said to be the best restaurant in Iceland—for over four decades now!

And speaking of  Hotel Holt I loved this intimate 41-room hotel. I thought I was in an art gallery—not a hotel. Hotel Holt and Gallery Restaurant feature the largest privately owned art collection in Iceland. The building is truly an Art Gallery within a hotel. Snorri, the hotel manager, is more than willing to take guests on a short tour of the collection when he is available at the hotel. 

If you’re looking for a unique gift—anything “fish skin” will do!  I had a custom made spotted wolfish clutch made by local artisan, Arndis Johannsdottir. To browse her work and order your own purse, or bracelet, or bowl, visit www.disa.is

One of the most WOW moments of my life

After a day of exploring the area, I was sooo ready for the BIG attraction: The Blue Lagoon. Mind you, it was 43 degrees outside and I was slipping into my bikini.

This extraordinary resort is set in the midst of a lava field, about 45 minutes outside of Reykjavik (close to KEF). Many people make the Blue Lagoon their first stop after landing, or their last hurrah before departing.  Not me! I chose to do neither and to spend the entire day relaxing, unrushed, at this geothermally-heated, mineral rich paradise. 

Upon check-in, I was given a bracelet that acted as my credit card for the day. Quite helpful at the swimup bar.  After a few walking laps around the lagoon, a few local beers, I slathered up my face with warm white silica mud--with promises of....well....something! (Glad I read the warnings about not getting that stuff in your hair--yikes! My hair feels like rubber....)

Normally, I'd shy away from the lunch buffet, but this one was magnificent. Complete with local sushi and other yummy dishes. 

My day ended with an in-lagoon massage. Unreal. A heavenly oil massage as I lay on large floating mat, lagoon water splashing over me, sun beating down on my face...I can't think of a more peaceful experience.

Geysir and Gulfoss, Oh My!

If you’re looking for a great way to see the areas around Reykjavik, be smart and hire a guide. I was lucky enough to find Jon Frosti who owns Solstice Tours. Jon’s tour not only included stops at natural wonders like Geysir and Gullfoss, but also included interesting tidbits on Icelandic language, culture, people, and politics. I learned that the current mayor of Reykjavik was a former comedian. When Lady Gaga won Yoko Ono’s Peace Award recently, the mayor dressed like a Jedi (Lady Gaga, if you can believe it, dressed “normally.”)

The one thing I am bummed I didn't get to see is the ethereal magical lightshow of the aurora borealis (Northern Lights).They say the best time to visit Reykjavik is in the darkest winter months--for this reason. I guess I'll have to return!

Landing on the Moon...or Reykjavik

Reykjavik, Iceland. Seems a million miles away. And when I  landed at the airport (KEF), my first thoughts were, “This place is unworldly…. Am I still on Earth?”  I felt I could see forever. Likely, because I could. There are no trees.

Iceland is one of the most volcanically active places on Earth.  About ¼ of Iceland is an active volcano zone. The interesting terrain is proof. I didn't  see sand, or dirt, or grass…but I did see moss-covered black lava fields. (And guys playing golf in 35 degrees on said terrain.)

Atomium. Say that 5 times fast.

For an interesting view of Brussels, Anja and I took the subway to the Atomium. Built for the World Fair in 1958, the Atomium is the most popular tourist attraction and the symbol of Europe’s Capital.  The structure holds temporary exhibitions as well as permanent educational exhibitions.  We enjoyed a glass of wine and a great view from the Panoramic Restaurant.  (Disclaimer: Do not waste your time on Mini-Europe. This tourist trap is located adjacent to the Atomium. Just trust me here.)

F&B Time

If you can’t snag a reservation at one of the trendy pop up restaurants in Brussels, try Belga Queen. The foie gras with Belgian chocolate was to die for. I mean, really? Foie gras and chocolate? Together? Heaven.

And speaking of chocolate, you can’t visit Brussels without indulging in three things: Chocolate. Beer. Frittes. For a gluttonous day, walk the streets of the old town and sample the chocolates at the plethora of chocolate shoppes: Leonidas, Neuhas, Mary, and Galler are just a few of your options.  The Galler “Cat Tongues” are quite popular. 

Then go on a fritte adventure. Every local has their own idea of who has the “perfect frittes”—we asked.  I enjoyed Fritland…and be sure to ask for the secret sauce—Andalusian Sauce. It’s kinnda like the Animal Style at In N Out. It’s not on the menu, but most people seem to “know” about it. And be sure to wash it down with a favorite local beer, Jupiler.