Visiting 90 countries is a feat within reach of the few. It takes time, financial availability and an unwavering desire to explore the world. This was the path of an American citizen, who over the years was filling his passport with stamps of almost a hundred nations. Its rule was simple: to visit each country only once. However, there was a European destination that made her open an exception. According to the Spanish diary As, the traveler confessed to having returned three times to Iceland and ensures that it is the only country where it “came back one and again.”
The country that won it at first glance
The initial idea was clear: always know new places. As it told the publication, it made no sense to return to the Colosseum without first knowing the Pyramids of Egypt or Antarctica. But, as in all rules, there are exceptions. Iceland came first as a suggestion of a friend, who organized her the trip. The promise of seeing imposing waterfalls, thermal waters, glaciers and lava fields aroused his curiosity.
The impact was immediate. As soon as he landed in Reaquík, he was fascinated with the northernmost capital of the world. The newspaper As writes that the first impression was marked by a rainbow painted in one of the main streets, a symbol of welcome to the LGTB community, which conveyed a sense of inclusion and joy.
Natural attractions and Nordic well-being
On his first trip he explored not only the city, but also some of the most emblematic landscapes in the country. He recalls the dive on Sky Lagoon, where he participated in a ritual inspired by the traditions of Nordic welfare, an experience he describes as deeply relaxing. He also visited black sand beaches of volcanic origin, walked over glaciers and was impressed by the grandeur of the waterfalls.
The gastronomy was another remarkable discovery, along with the hospitality of the Icelanders. “They seemed proud to show their country,” he told the Spanish publication, adding that he felt at home.
Unexpected return and new adventures
Despite his conviction of traveling only once every destination, he returned just three months after the first visit. A failed family plane made room to mark a new adventure. This time, he opted for an expedition cruise in the north of the island. He saw whales, crossed the Arctic Polar Circle and traveled landscapes of mountains and lava fields describing as unreal.
The Islandic Winter Charm
Still, he had to fulfill another dream: to see the dawn boreal. It was in a third visit during the winter that finally managed to watch the phenomenon, though briefly. The country, now covered with snow, has introduced himself with a distinct beauty, consolidating his fascination with Iceland.
The exception that confirms the rule
For those who have always believed that the world is too great to repeat destinations, Iceland has proved irresistible. As the newspaper summarizes, the traveler keeps the desire to continue to discover new countries, but has no doubt that there is a place where he always wants to go back.
Also read:
