Tuesday was spent exploring Reykjavik. There was an on and off drizzle most of the morning. The coffee shop I wanted to check out happened to be near the landmark Lutheran church above the city, Hallgrimskirkja. Named after a 17th century hymn writer, the modern design is without ornamentation but striking in it’s soaring interior and bell tower. I took the lift up to the top of the bell tower for some great views of the city.
A city bus ride then took me out to the peninsula where the Grotta Island lighthouse is. A foot and cycle path skirting the peninsula leads to the lighthouse. It is quite exposed to the elements there, and I could imagine it shrouded in ice at times I’m sure. Then hopped back on the bus using my transfer.
Finally it was time to visit the Icelandic Phallological Museum, better known as the penis museum. At 284 displays, it holds the Guinness world record and probably always will. All the mammals and maritime species of Iceland are represented. I must say they all looked a bit sad and lonely submerged in formaldehyde separated from their owners. Never again to rise to the occasion. However, it was an entertaining exhibit, including lots of interesting facts, carvings, utilitarian items and more celebrating the male member.
Back to town, it was happy hour at most every bar in town… an event one doesn’t want to miss considering the price of a beer here! I had my eye on a certain English pub which appeared very authentic inside. As I entered, a woman had just won a “meter of beer” by spinning a roulette wheel and landing on the top prize. She was handing out the meter long stack of glasses to other patrons with free beer. It must have been her lucky night because she did it again a little later! Also had a very nice conversation with a couple from Durham… England.
Finally it was time to meet for dinner with an acquaintance from the previous day’s tour. The guide had suggested his favorite restaurant for Icelandic fare, which we decided to check out. Hannah, from Wales, and I had an absolutely delicious meal together and good conversation for two solo travelers. Turns out we were both booked on the same tour the next day, so we officially declared ourselves travel buddies!
2 Wheeled Wanderer 