February 2021

Iceland, a Nordic island country on the North Atlantic Ocean is one of the most sparsely populated nations in the world. Do you know where the coolest places to stay in Iceland are? This post takes you through 5 of the coolest accommodations you can find in Iceland.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means, if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will earn a small commission. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information.

Where is Iceland?

Landnámabók is the “Book of Settlements” that describes Iceland as being inhabited during the Viking Age of 870 – 930 AD. The first copy of this book has not survived. An online version of this ancient text is available as The Settlement Book.

Iceland’s closest neighbor is Greenland and geographically, it is closer to Europe than North America. Iceland has a subarctic climate. The three regions which share this climate are the Aleutian Islands, the Alaskan Peninsula, and Tierra Del Fuego.

What is Iceland famous for?

The Land of Fire and Ice is what Iceland is known. Iceland is a country of contrasts. Active volcanoes, large glaciers, and long summer days are some of the reasons this country is famous.

Do you know that an Icelandic explorer discovered North America half a millennium before Christopher Columbus?

Leif Erikson was the son of Erik the Red, the founder of Greenland. There are conflicting versions of Leif’s voyage to Vinland. According to the Book of Icelanders, Leif saw Vinland after being blown off course on his way to Greenland.

Norse Mythology

These mythologies were the oral and written works of pre-Christian inhabitants of the Scandinavian people during the Middle Ages. These texts were created in Iceland and are known as Prose Edda.

Prose Edda is a compilation of works by Snorri Sturluson, a historian, poet, and politician. This text is an interpretation of where human beings have supernatural powers. Deities and supernatural beings have magic and are deified. 

Volcanoes

Iceland is home to at least 31 active volcanoes where at least 18 eruptions have occurred since 900 BC. The two famous volcanic eruptions are Laki in 1783-84 and Eyjafjallajökull in 2010. Telegraph gives 15 Reasons Iceland is the Most Fascinating Country on The Planet.

What are the coolest places to stay in Iceland?

The Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is one of the coolest places to stay in Iceland. This geothermal spa is located in southwest Iceland. The man-made lagoon’s silky blue color is from its high silica content. This lagoon is the by-product of a geothermal power plant that supplies superheated water to run the turbines which provide electricity.

There are several things to do near the Blue Lagoon.

The Retreat

The second coolest place to stay in Iceland is this hotel which has been featured by Forbes, Evening Standard, and Elle. There are several suites to choose from, some of which have private pools. There are several things to do near the Blue Lagoon which you can do during your stay here. Both the Blue Lagoon and The Retreat are located about 45 minutes, 31 miles from Reykjavik.

The 5 Million Star Hotel

This hotel has been featured in Forbes, Conde Nast Traveler, and Lonely Planet Travel News. The Bubble Hotel is about 44 miles from Reyjavik which is an hour’s drive. There are 18 bubble rooms where you can sleep under the stars or simply watch the Northern Lights.

The Tree Bubble

This bubble is Iceland’s first hanging tree bubble. This bubble is located in the forests of Selfoss. A point to note is that guided tours are part of the booking. The guided tours are the Golden Circle Tour and South Coast Tour.

The Panorama Glass Lodge

This glass lodge is located 75 miles from Reyjavik which is about 1.5 hours drive. Panorama Glass Lodge has been featured in Lonely Planet Travel News, My Modern Met, and Fodor’s Travel.

This resort does not have a waiting list and they are booked out fast. It is best to book 6-7 months before arrival. The good news is that two new lodges would be opened sometime this year. 

The ION Adventure Hotel

This hotel is an hour’s drive as it is about 28 miles from Reyjavik. This hotel has been featured in Thailand Tatler, The Telegraph UK, and New York Times. There are several rooms available with the Thermal Junior Suite being the most popular.

The activities to do here include diving, fishing, horseback riding, and swimming in their hot spring bath. This hotel has done an excellent job of combining natural elements, sustainable practices, and innovative design to give guests top-notch service.

Hotel Ranga

The last of the coolest places to stay in Iceland is Hotel Ranga. Hotel Ranga is 63 miles from Reyjavik which is about 1.5 hours drive. This hotel has done an excellent job combining local art, sustainability practices, and hospitality. The green measures include electricity provided by geothermal power plants.

Another green measure is the use of energy-saving light bulbs and the use of motion sensors in corridors to reduce power consumption. A testament is a fact that this hotel has been featured on The Scotsman, Telegraph UK, and Forbes.

What is the most beautiful part of Iceland?

Gullfoss Waterfalls

Gullfoss Waterfalls is one of Iceland’s best waterfalls. Gullfoss means “Golden Falls” and is a 2-hour drive in Reyjavik. This fall is in Rvita River Canyon. A unique feature of this fall is its two stages.

The water from the Hvita River comes from the Langjökull glacier and cascades at a height of 11 meters in its first stage. In the second stage, the water comes down to 21 meters. With canyon walls on both ends, it is a display of mother nature’s true power.

The guided tours are the Golden Circle Tour and South Coast Tour.

Askja

This is an active volcano located in a remote part of Iceland. It is 374 miles from Reyjavik which is about 8.5 hours drive. Askja is an Icelandic term that means caldera. There are several lakes in the area. 

The larger lake is Öskjuvatn which is the deepest lake in the country. The smaller lake is Viti lake.

Do you know that this area was a training ground for the Apollo space program in the 1960s?

The Askja Volcano was unknown to many until a major eruption in 1865. The ashfall from that eruption was enough to poison the land and kill livestock. The last eruption was in 1961. However, there has been an earthquake swarm that has made this volcano off-limits for now.

Seljalandsfoss

Seljalandsfoss is a beautiful waterfall 80 miles from Reykjavik which is about 1 hour and 45 minutes away. This waterfall has appeared on several TV shows and a musical clip. This waterfall is one of the World’s Most Instagrammed Waterfall. It has been featured in The Telegraph UK.

Vatnajökull

Vatnajokull is the biggest glacier in Iceland and the second-largest in Europe. To protect nature, a limited number of tourists would be allowed into the ice caves. With climate change, the glaciers are now retreating at an alarming rate. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Jökulsárlón

Jökulsárlón is an Icelandic term that means “glacial river lagoon”. This glacial river is located in South Iceland and is accessible via car or bus. A trip to Jökulsárlón and Vatnajökull is suitable as a day trip as these two glaciers are next to each other.

Reynisfjara Beach, Vík

This black-sand beach on Iceland’s South Coast is its most scenic beach. The black sand is because of its volcanic past. Cool, hardened lava created the rocks. A stroll along this beach takes you back in time to when this place was an active volcano. Imagine walking on an eroded volcanic black sand beach, exciting isn’t it?

Is Iceland Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Here are 10 Reasons Why You Should make this trip. Here’s why.

Why Should I Go?

1. It is one of the most beautiful places on earth.
2. A day trip on the Golden Circle would take you to the most visited tourist sites.
3. If Blue Lagoon isn’t your thing, head to Myvatn Nature Baths which gives a similar experience. Myvatn is a natural lagoon.
4. Experience the waterfalls and glaciers. 

Lastly, don’t forget the Northern Lights. Check out the 22 Best Places To See The Northern Lights.

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Are you planning a short trip away from KL? Do you want to know where to go in Malaysia for a short trip?  Look no further, check out these short getaways in Malaysia for couples.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means, if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will earn a small commission. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my Disclaimer Policy for more information.

Where Should I Go For A Short Getaway In Malaysia?

The Haven Resort In Ipoh

For your next short getaway in Malaysia, why not head to The Haven All-Suite Resort. This is one of Ipoh’s premier hotels. Tucked within limestone hills, forests, and a lake, this resort is all about relaxation. South China Morning Post, Marie France Asia, and Newshub have featured this resort in their publications.

The rooms at the resort are all suites. They are spacious and come with a living room, kitchenette and can easily fit 6 persons. They have studio suites for 2 persons, 2 bedroom apartments, and 3 bedroom apartments.

This resort is the only resort that boasts facilities such as tennis courts, squash courts, a jogging track, basketball, and badminton courts. The usual facilities such as gym, sauna and children’s playroom are also available.

Which Popular Attractions Are Close to The Haven All Suite Resort, Ipoh?

The Lost World of Tambun which is Ipoh’s only theme park is the closest attraction to this resort. Another attraction is the Kek Long Tong Cave Temple and Zen Gardens. Make sure to stop by Tambun Pomelo Agro Farm as Tambun is famous for its pomelos.

The Lakehouse

Our next short getaway in Malaysia is The Lakehouse in Cameron Highlands. Cameron Highlands is one of Malaysia’s hill stations and is about 75 miles from Kuala Lumpur. This Tudor-style boutique resort is close to the towns of Ringlet and Tanah Rata.

It was Colonel Stanley J Foster who constructed The Lakehouse in 1966 as it was his dream to venture into his own Bed & Breakfast. The Lakehouse took 4 years to complete and began operations in 1970. Colonel Foster stayed at his private residence, now the Fosters Suite at the Hilltop House.

What Is There To Do In Cameron Highlands?

There are plenty of things to do in Cameron Highlands. You can:-

1. Visit Sungai Palas Boh Tea Plantation

• This must-visit is an iconic landmark for its hanging balcony. This plantation was acquired in the 1950s. There is the BOH Exhibition Gallery, BOH Tea Gallery, and the instagramable BOH Tea Cafe.

2. Hike up Mossy Forest

• This forest is on Mount Brinchang which is the second-highest peak in Cameron Highlands. This peak has a magical aura of continuously blanketed in mist which gives an eerie feel.
• This forest made it to Lonely Planet’s Most Instagrammable Forests In The World. It came in fifth place with 64,564 hashtags attached to it. 

There are many more things to do here. You can check out the 19 Best Things to do in Cameron Highlands or check out these tours of Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur.

Anantara Desaru Coast & Villas in Desaru

Our last short getaway in Malaysia is in Desaru, Johor. This resort features 108 rooms, two swimming pools, and fun family activities, for adults and kids alike.

With stunning sea view rooms, pool villas, and beach residences, there is something for everyone. All rooms are equipped with complimentary free WiFi. There are also two pools on the property and restaurants which serve Malaysian, Thai, and a shisha bar.

What Can We Do In Desaru?

Some of the things we can do in Desaru include strolling by Desaru Beach, visit the Teluk Sengat Crocodile Farm, take the kids to Desaru Water Park and visit the largest Ostrich Farm in Malaysia. Check out the Top Ten Things To Do In Desaru.

What is a mini-vacation?

A mini-vacation is a short break. Wisegeek gives an excellent definition of mini-vacation and how we all need one of our own.

Thriveglobal gives 8 Reasons Why We Need A Mini-Vacation. However, in this post, we will only be giving 4 reasons. The reasons are:-

Reduce Stress

Forbes gives 5 Good Reasons Why Travel Is Good. Going for a short trip and breaking away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and endless commitments have been shown to reduce stress.

Resets The Mind

Another article on Forbes states that the secrets to success lie in taking vacations. With the advancement of technology, the lines between work and personal life have blurred. The fear of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Office) can lead to excessive stress and burnout.

By taking Friday and Monday off and creating a short mini-vacation allows the brain and mind to relax. This allows new ideas and insight to develop as the mind resets and relaxes during the break.

Rewards Hard Work

Do you know Netflix has an unlimited vacation policy?

Interestingly, most of Netflix’s innovations were created by employees who had returned from vacations. Netflix learned that by empowering its people, it had increased the satisfaction of its employees.

After all, when we aren’t tracking hours worked per day, does it make sense to track vacation days?

Reconnect With Loved Ones

In our busy lives, we do not connect with our loved ones. A mini-vacation allows us to disconnect from work & technology. By reconnecting with loved ones, we strengthen our bonds.

What is the cheapest tropical place to vacation?

Bali, Indonesia

The only Hindu majority province in Bali where at least 82% of its population are practicing Hinduism, that is Bali. Bali is located in the East of Java, West of Lombok, and West of Lesser Sunda Islands. Bali is described as a cheap tropical destination by Planet Ware, Ordinary Traveler, and Nomadic Matt.

Budget Your Trip estimates the average daily cost for a budget trip to be about $23 while a luxury trip’s average daily cost is about $205.

For hotel options in Bali, check out:

Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang is a city about 193 miles from Vientiane. This city was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Some of the tourism sites are Kuang Si Waterfalls and Pak Ou Caves.

Budget Your Trip estimates that the average daily cost for a budget trip is $10 while a luxurious trip could set you back by $65. Check out Luang Prabang’s cheap eats on how to enjoy local food without breaking your bank.

For hotels in Luang Prabang, check out:

Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is opposite Playa Del Carmen which is separated by Yucatan and Cozumel Channels. Cozumel is a Mayan term that means “Island of Swallows”.

In April 2021, a new tourism tax of $10 will be imposed on travelers as reported by The Riviera Maya Times. Although the tourism industry has rejected this tax, the government is set to impose it.

Budget Your Trip estimates that the average daily cost for a budget trip is $36 while a luxury trip would set you back by $79.

For hotel options in Cozumel, check out:

Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is a coastal town about 497 miles from Hanoi. Hoi An has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1999 for being a well-preserved example of a trading port since the 15th century.

‘Hoi-pho’ was the original name of the town which means “peaceful meeting place”. The prices in Hoi An are cheap as highlighted in Price of Travel. When in Hoi An, check out the 10 Best Cheap Eats in Hoi An.

What Is Special About Hoi An?

1. It’s a well-preserved example of a South-East Asian Trading Port.
2. Check out the 10 Things You Must Do In Hoi An.
3. Check out the Japanese Covered Bridge, An Bang Beach, Old House of Tan Ky, Silk Village, and many more.

For hotels in Hoi An, check out:

Aruba

Aruba is a Caribbean island administered by the Netherlands. Aruba is part of the ABC Islands, where the other two nations are Bonaire and Curacao.

With remote working being the trend, Aruba has announced a scheme to allow US visitors to stay on the island for 3 months. Guests can enjoy the One Happy Workstation scheme. Although long considered an expensive island, a budget trip is possible.

Budget Your Trip estimates the average daily cost for a budget trip is $111 per person while a luxurious trip costs $547 per person. However, there are 12 Things You Need To Know Before Going To Aruba.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Go To Aruba?

The cheapest months to travel to Aruba is September to October. This time is perfect for those who hate crowds and enjoy travel bargains. The weather? It’s near 90°F (32°C) if you don’t mind the heat.

For hotel options, check out:

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