It’s official. I’m in love. Every step of my journey only exceeded my expectations. Iceland, was just the same. Despite the initial fear that I’d be eating dinner at the Subway (not my favorite fast food joint – especially in a foreign country) across the street from my Guesthouse, I had a wonderful time exploring Reykjavik. I woke up in the morning only too look out my window and see the clouds rolling over the mountains along the water. Truly magical.

I walked along the sea wall into downtown, and all I could say (out-loud, to myself) is “wow, this is so beautiful.” Iceland does it right – they’ve found the perfect balance between natural beauty and man-made design. As a graphic designer I appreciate the fact that the city didn’t feel branded, it felt well-designed. I loved the vibe. It was hip without being too hip, cool without being too cool (temperature wise I was sweating mainly because I didn’t have room in my suitcase for all my clothes). It definitely crossed my mind that I could “accidentally” miss my flight and stay for the Iceland Airwaves music festival. But instead I raced to the finish. I ran through all these amazing shops (welcoming and well designed) that were now open, felt inspired and energized. With less than 20 minutes to spare I jetted into a baby store for my two friends with babies on the way (on my checklist the entire trip, and I wait until NOW to get presents?). I felt like I was on The Amazing Race and getting back to my luggage in time to catch my bus was the final challenge. This was it. I had conquered everything I had set out to do and more (but left a few stones unturned in each place as a good excuse to go back). And, man, was I POWER walking like never before. The whole time I’m laughing to myself (and probably out-loud too). And I made it – with time to spare!

So maybe I didn’t win a million dollars at the end of my trip, but rather have racked up quite the credit card bill (hello, the dollar sucks now and, note to anyone considering Iceland, despite it’s fabulousness, it’s wicked expensive!), but at the end of the day, I wouldn’t have changed a thing. I mean, I got a sweet green winter jacket and new ‘do, experiences that last a lifetime, and I feel like a whole new person. Now my dad and I just need to get cast on the show for real, so we can win a cool million and I can do this anytime I please. . .

Mission complete.