BROADCASTS.com

Today\u2019s Destination is: Akureyri and Northern Iceland

Today\u2019s Misstep- My hostel was self-service, and someone was in my bed.

Travel Advice: Be on time if you are on a tour.

\xa0

FAQ: How do I navigate the city bus system when I don\u2019t speak the language?

\xa0

Response: I traveled around the world for 90 days, and most of the time, I did not speak the language of that country. I had some challenges riding the bus in some cities; for example, Reykjavik, Iceland, was a minor disaster. You can use travel apps like Rome to Rio for bus or train travel guidance. You'll be able to get to the station early so that you can ask other people about the timing of the bus. In Goa, India, I waited at an unmarked bus station, but it never came, so I took a chance with a motorcycle taxi. Later that day, I waited at another bus station and was unsure where the bus would go, left or right. No one spoke my language. I finally got on my first of 4 buses to my destination. In hindsight, a taxi would have been a better option had one been available. Most of the time, you will get on the right bus, and you will be able to get to your destination. If you\u2019re not in a hurry, even better. Enjoy the experience and travel light.

Today\u2019s destination: Akureyri and Northern Iceland

\xa0

On my around-the-world trip, I had planned to drive the Ring Road in Iceland for 7 days, the final destination on a 90-day adventure. After many months of planning and reserving a car rental, I canceled with about 2 weeks' notice and decided to fly to the northern part of Iceland for a 4-day trip instead.

\xa0

I bought a round-trip ticket to Akureyri, and the airport to get there was tiny, so small that there was no security screening for passengers. There were about 40 people on the plane.

\xa0

Once I landed, I discovered there was no bus service to town, as it was not profitable. I hitched a ride to the cruise ship terminal with some airline pilots from Denmark who were with Viking Cruises whom I met on the plane. The terminal for boats was much busier than the one for planes. Five colossal cruise ships\u2014mega-ships\u2014were docked in town. I met a cruise ship passenger, Kelly, from Long Beach, California, sitting on a bench. She was retired, single, and had no kids. She broke her ankle, and walking the stairs is challenging for her now. She was sweet to meet.

\xa0

The town has only 20,000 residents.

\xa0

When the cruise ships left town, the city became peaceful and relaxed.\xa0

\xa0

What did I do those days? It was a great adventure, as I had booked a hostel near a bus stop and Netto grocery store. I took a day trip to Lake Myvatn, the fourth-largest lake in the country. We saw the Godafoss, the waterfall of the Gods. I explored some caves and volcanic areas from afar. While there, I witnessed a long-distance run of 100 kilometers. The run starts at midnight, and I could watch the runners up close and even be at the finish line for several of them. How exciting. I also enjoyed the public pools with the locals every day I could. I felt like a local and explored the hikes and neighborhoods on the city bus.\xa0

https://www.visitakureyri.is/en/see-and-do/events-festivals/sulur-vertical

Today\u2019s Misstep: My hostel was self-service, and someone was in my bed.

In other words, there were no administrative people there at all.

When I arrived, someone was sleeping in my bed. That was disturbing because there was no one to ask for help. The person was sound asleep and sick, and they would not move to another bed. I had five other roommates, but I did not want to take one of their bunks. So, I went swimming in a nearby hot tub instead and relaxed.

That night, I sorted it all out. The other roommates, who were from Germany and China, were kind and friendly, which made it all worth it.

Today\u2019s Travel Advice- If on a tour, be on time.

\xa0

You may need to hitchhike if you miss your guided bus tour, so don\u2019t be late. The driver may need to pick up passengers at another stop or drop off others. You can\u2019t keep them waiting, so synch your alarm to return to the tour when needed.

\xa0

Connect with Dr. Travelbest

5 Steps to Solo Travel website

Dr. Mary Travelbest X

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Page

Dr. Mary Travelbest Facebook Group

Dr. Mary Travelbest Instagram

Dr. Mary Travelbest Podcast

Dr. Travelbest on TikTok

Dr.Travelbest onYouTube

In the news

\xa0