Arrival in Iceland
I want to share this incredible experience that Fulbright has given me! I have so many photos of my experiences living in Iceland. My intension in starting this blog is to give an authentic account of my time on my grant. I plan to share all the things I have learned, love about living here and some of the challenges.
Smooth flight to Iceland in late August.
I arrived in Iceland on August 29th, 2024. Coming from the warmth of New York City just six hours prior, the crisp cool sulfur air of Iceland was a bit jarring. Nothing but blue skies and sun when we arrived at 06:15, it was crazy that it was bright that early. I saw the billowing clouds from the August eruption from the plane! Everything felt so scary and exciting all at once, and I was so grateful for my partner who tagged along to help me settle in my first week. This was my first experience driving in another country; Iceland’s roads were surprisingly easy navigate. The first few days were spent exploring Reykjavík and doing immigration/settling in tasks. A few tears were shed, only because I had no clue which order to open things, like bank account, phone plan, etc. It was all achieved in the end.
Shortly after I arrived, I had my orientation for Fulbright at the Icelandic Fulbright Commission and met my cohort. Little did I know this was the beginning of some beautiful friendships!
The first month, WAS SO HARD! I spent most of my time exploring Reykjavík, finding my nearest grocery stores, pharmacies, medical clinics, art stores, cafes, and art museums. It took me a bit of time to figure out where everything was for my basic needs for living here in Iceland. Some days I cried a lot, this was the most alone I have ever felt in my life.
We were blessed with a lot of sunny days in the first few weeks of September, and it was really hard to want to be sitting inside working.
I felt fortunate to connect with some of my Fulbright cohort, who were having similar feelings and we agreed to meet up and explore Reykjavík. One of the experiences I really wanted to have was going to the public pools – but I was initially very intimidated by going alone my first time. I was fortunate that my new Fulbright friends went with me! I have learned that the bathing culture in Iceland is an integral ritual in their culture and a main social hub for Icelanders. They take very seriously washing your body before putting on your bathing suit. The cleanliness at the pools is something I appreciate so very much! It has completely changed my standard for a public pool!
First meetup with Fulbright gang at Sandholt. Very yummy pastries!
The month ended with a beautiful hike to Glymur waterfall. This is Iceland’s second tallest waterfall. It was crazy to see how quickly the foliage was turning beautiful fall colors within a month of my arrival in Iceland! I could also feel the changing of the sun’s position – peak light would only feel like late afternoon.
Little did I know these incredibly talented individuals would become some lifelong friends. :)
