ISLAND - REYKJAVIK
In this blog I share my observations and insights into Icelandic life, from drinking water and food to nightlife, as well as my experiences at the university and the beautiful landscapes.
When I arrived at my flat in Reykjavik, I noticed that the hot water had an unusual smell, it smells like rotten eggs. This is due to the high sulphur content in the water. It was an unexpected surprise because I have heard about it before, but experiencing it was a different matter. Nevertheless, Icelandic hot water is safe to use for certain purposes, such as showering and washing dishes. The cold tap water, on the other hand, is one of the cleanest and safest water sources in the world. So, I started drinking straight from the tap and prefer to shower a little bit colder than usually.
After unpacking my luggage, my growling stomach led me and a flatmate to the nearest grocery store, a popular chain called "Bonus". It is known for the cheapest prices in Iceland. If you aren't familiar with the Icelandic language, finding groceries in the store can be a bit challenging. Most product labels are in Icelandic, but you can often find imported items with labels in German, English, or other languages. Iceland is a cashless society, so normally you have to pay your groceries at the self-checkout with your credit card, carrying cash isn't really necessary. Nevertheless, I decided to withdraw a small amount of Icelandic Krona (ISK), the local currency, just in case of emergencies.
Our flatmates decided to organize a welcome party, which means a trip to the grocery store to buy some beer. However, we quickly found out, that you can only purchase light beer at regular stores, that is because Icelandic alcohol regulations. To get regular beer or any other alcoholic beverages, you must visit a proofed liquor store known as "Vinbudin". This strict control over alcohol sales is part of Iceland's alcohol regulations. Additionally, high taxes on alcoholic products contribute to the high prices. The following day, we went out to explore Reykjavik's nightlife. We realized soon that we were underdressed. The local nightlife scene is not just about partying, it's also a fashion statement. Most people in Reykjavik go out dressed in their finest clothes. Finding a disco or a bar is not hard because the entire city seems to come alive with music, offering plenty bars and discos.
Icelanders are well-known for their friendliness and helpfulness, but I would also describe them as introverted. In university, it's more common to interact with exchange students because it is challenging to integrate into Icelandic social groups. However, if you break the ice, Icelanders are welcoming and open to sharing their culture. Since my arrival, I've had the opportunity of interacting with international people. Spanish students are always up for a night out, often come to lectures late, while Americans are excellent in presentations and active class participation.
The University of Reykjavik made a good impression on me. It´s a modern campus with newest technology, it includes a café, a gym, a meditation room, and even a supermarket on-site. Everything you need for work or to study is available 24/7. The professors are highly motivated and professionals in their fields. Due to the smaller lecture halls, the atmosphere is warm and inviting, even though the university has around 3000 students. We've had the privilege of hosting guest speakers from around the world; State Bank of Iceland (Landsbankinn), experts on the UN Global Goals, and even a guest speaker from Harvard. The provided knowledge and the learning experience were very good and I can only recommend it.
I arrived one week before the university started and went with my flatmates on the Golden Circle tour, which is a sightseeing excursion and also to the South Coast. The landscapes are truly unique and among the most beautiful I have ever seen, from glaciers and volcanoes to geysers and waterfalls. Additionally, Iceland provides a diversity of wildlife. It's not uncommon to get in situations where you need to stop because sheeps are crossing the road or to share the road with Icelandic horses. During our travels, i spotted Puffins, sea lions, and even whales, which created incredible moments and memories. Activities ranged from snorkeling between the continental plates of America and Europe to horse riding on the Iceland horses. I fell in love with this country and be so happy that I choose Iceland for a exchange semester. I´m looking forward to explore new things and broad my spectrum in the next few months.