It's common you do a research about the country where you are about to live a year (or more). You try to find out more about the culture, job offers available, average income, accommodation options, what you can visit there, weather conditions and what you can expect in general. I didn't do anything from the list above. I already lived in England, Scotland, North Wales (about a year in each location) and as I was waiting for a working visa approval for my next adventure in Canada I wanted to experience something different.
I visited Google and went through hundreds of photos, waterfalls, mountains, coasts, favourite sights and attractions. Some people are coming to Iceland because of the money but it wasn't my case as I didn't even research the average salary there. My goal was clear, I wanted to explore this country, turn some of my dreams into the reality and live an adventure. I was trying to avoid any travelling myths and enter Iceland with an open mind.
What was the main reason?
The main reason to move to Iceland was the nature and a different culture. I wanted to see majestic waterfalls, iconic mountains, walk on the land looking like a moonland where nothing grows, explore the glaciers and various beaches. I was also interested in the history, speak with locals so I could hear old myths and stories, how is the life so far in the north, what are their traditions, trying icelandic cuisine and finding out how is it like to live in Iceland. I could go there just on a holiday but I wouldn't get so much in touch with locals and experience icelandic life. I also wanted to meet other travellers from all around the world and to find out more about their cultures and hear travelling stories from other countries.
Finding a job
As I didn't know much about Iceland, I decided to go through an agency which helped me to find a job in hospitality industry and accommodation was provided by an employer. This worked out very well for me as the job was already confirmed before I landed in Iceland. I was expecting an adventure so I got it. Of course there were many struggles to get use to a different culture but the experience was priceless.
Living in the middle of nowhere
I was living and working right next to the waterfall literally in the middle of nowhere. The views were breathtaking on the mountaions on the horizon, pure nature, canyon and the waterfall. Nothing else. What an amazing place to clear your head. The best time was later in the night when there was still midnight sun but no tourists at all. I could go to one of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland and be there completely alone. That was an unforgettable feeling. I visited many breathtaking places in Iceland during my daus off. It would be rude not to write a full blog post about every single one of them and just mention the names instead. I will share with you the most interesting ones in another blog posts.
Did I mention Northern Lights?
Of course I had northern lights on my bucket list and couldn't leave Iceland without seeing them. Why was my first northern lights show such a disappointment and why I will never forget the night 31st August/1st September 2017? You can find out the answer right here :)
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