Grasshopper June, 2019 Top 20 Refreshing Summer Destinations | Page 15

here are covered in black sand. Out of which the Reynisfjara is most famous one. Reynisfjara is not the only beautiful beach in South coast, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, also known as the ‘crown jewel of Iceland’s nature’ sits by the Diamond Beach. The logoon is filled with icebergs all year long which after breaking from glacier tongue travel towards the oceans. After reaching the ocean the waves push then onto the shore resulting in a mesmerizing sight. The contrast of the beach is what makes it unique. White ice on black sand and to add to the color, the Northern Lights come into play. If this was not enough, you can find many seals playing both in lagoon and out in the sea throughout the year. SNAEFELLSNES GLACIER & VOLCANO If you really want to understand the diversity of the nation, head towards the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. The Peninsula nicknamed ‘Iceland in Miniature’ is a twin-peaked glaciers sitting over a volcano and is surrounded by jagged lava fields and coastal area on three sides. The importance of the site could be deciphered by the fact that Icelanders declared it a National Park in 2001. The crowning glory on Snaefellsjokull from which many pieces of art have been inspired is beyond comparison. Snaefellsjokull can be easily visited by renting a car as it is a convenient way to drive to the glacier and come back within a day. Many tour packages include trip to Snaefellsjokull. TRY ICELANDIC CUISINE Not everyone knows much about the traditional Icelandic cuisine outside of Iceland but that does not make it any less astounding. Head to any restaurant in Reykjavik and try some traditional dishes. Hardfiskur which consists of fried fish is one such dish which is a must try. There is another dish that you might want to try if you feel a little more adventurous named Syio. It is a baked sheep-head that most people don’t want to try but as they say ‘when in Rome do as romans do’. NORTHERN LIGHTS One of Iceland’s major attractions is the natural light display. Yes we are talking about the Northern Lights also known as Aurora Borealis. The phenomenon occurs only in winters and only as the earth’s highest elevation. The purple, green and gold lights dance in a ribbon-like wave making this June, 2019 g 13