Why Our Staff Love Iceland
Thursday, 14th February 2019
Magnetic, enticing and irresistible; it’s no wonder so many are captivated by Iceland’s charms. Over 40 years ago, our managing director, Clive Stacey, fell for Iceland’s untamed landscapes, remoteness and unique culture! We ask our Discover the World team what it is they love about the land of fire and ice…
Clive Stacey, Managing Director
Having lived and worked in Iceland for over a year in a fish factory and on fishing boats, our Managing Director, Clive, managed to explore a lot of the country. This was enough to drive a passion for Icelandic culture and experiences, as well as a travel company!
I still get goosebumps when I see the empty roads twisting around an unspoilt coastline or a waterfall that flows straight from the imagination of Tolkein. My top experience has to be seeing the northern lights in Iceland for the first time ever! Another highlight was watching a vent spewing out lava as Krafla volcano erupted. I’ve loved really getting to know the place and discovering its many hidden secrets. There are sill many areas left undiscovered for me, particularly in the East.
Georgina Hancock, Marketing Director
Even with over 15 visits to this spectacular country, our Marketing Director, Georgina, is still bowled over by the diverse landscape, local culture and fabulous food.
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Iceland over 15 times and yet it still wows me on every visit. The scenery throughout is spectacular, the food mouth-watering and the people are so warm, friendly and welcoming. I’ve travelled there in all seasons and each one is magical. I’ve enjoyed whale watching under the midnight sun; bathed in a hot tub under a sprinkling of snowflakes; walked amongst the wildflowers and comical puffins in the spring and been mesmerised by some incredible northern lights sightings in the autumn equinox and the depths of winter. One visit is definitely not enough to experience the full wonders of this extraordinary country.
Eric, Iceland Travel Specialist
Our travel specialist’s like to take the a more scenic route around Iceland, finding a self-drive experience the most economic but freeing way to explore. Eric, one of our Iceland Travel Specialist’s remembers his favourite drive.
Driving around the West Fjords is one of the most scenic drives in the world, it just can not be rivalled. Call me, I’m happy to discuss this at length! At every turn, there is dramatic scenery and jaw-dropping landscapes, showcasing how this wonderful country has been made by the pure power of nature. I am always amazed by how beautiful the area is, I would drive around in circles just to take in the view one more time.
Dawn, Iceland Travel Specialist
Even if you start with Iceland’s iconic attractions, you will still see the unexpected. Our Travel Specialist Dawn remembers her Iceland travels.
What I love about Iceland is, when you think you can’t be surprised anymore by its naturals wonders, you head into The Highlands and get blown away. The views are stunning and provide a fairground ride of different twists and turns, tunnels and hidden gems that you can’t help but admire. In fact, the only thing that may interrupt your drive is the occasional sheep that can be often found daydreaming in the middle of the road! I kept thinking about the old TV programme ‘Top Gear’ and how these roads must feature in their ‘Worlds Best Driving Roads’ episodes. There can’t be many places in the world where you can follow a road round and round a mountain, and as you get to the top you are greeted with the most incredible panoramic views of the fjords. An absolute dream!
Pam, SEO and Content Manager
Don’t turn your nose up at the Golden Circle – it is still a must for any Iceland adventure. Our SEO and Content Manager, Pam, tells us why.
I was fortunate enough to visit Iceland for the first time in November 2018 and it was love at first sight. Although the northern lights didn’t come out to play, we did have a full moon and the most amazing stargazing evening at Hotel Ranga’s observatory with an expert astronomer telling us fascinating stories about the night sky (dreamy!). No first time-trip would be complete without visiting the Golden Circle. With reduced hours of sunlight, we experienced some beautiful sunrises, Geysir was a sight to behold. Then, we tagged on a day of self-driving to explore the south coast. We really enjoyed walking behind the pretty waterfall that is Seljalandsfoss with a pink sky and ever-present full moon in the background. Further along our journey, we really adored the colours of the glacial tongue at Sólheimajökull. Iceland has captured a piece of my heart and I can’t wait to return.
Feeling Inspired?
Learn more about the wonder that is Iceland with our travel guides to volcanoes, waterfalls and glaciers, as well as our must do experience on any Iceland trip.
Thinking about potential trip? Visit our Iceland Holidays page or call 01737 214 250 and speak to the experts
