Surviving Iceland

The Sun Voyager, Reykjavik, Iceland

After researching an exotic location such as Iceland, you may come to the conclusion, like I did, that ultimately the country will try and kill you. It may not be what you are looking for in a vacation, but trust me, after you feel it, you'll crave it.

All knowing Google, summarized up my research into a survival guide for my vacation to Iceland. Don't go anywhere without a guide, be prepared with survival supplies in case of inclement weather leaving you stranded, don't get too close to the water for fear of a rogue wave washing you away.

I was terrified, yet prepared. I had all necessary emergency apps, first aid supplies, a flair gun, parachutes, body armour, the Travelocity gnome - all to protect and comfort me throughout my daring adventure.

Upon my arrival, the faint smell of a blown out candle filled my nose. It was probably in my head, but that smell was coming from the numerous volcanos that were sure to erupt during my week long stay.

Due to my apparent death wish, on my itinerary was a nice glacier walk, complete with a visit to an ice cave. I was given a helmet, ice pick, and spikes for the bottom of my boots. How nice of them to consider photo props such as these to enhance this amazing experience!

Arriving at the site of our exploration I quickly realized these were not props. I stared up at the sheer side of a gigantic mountain, complete with black snow stained with volcanic ash, while halfheartedly listening to the instructor explain the importance of following his path, lest you fall into a sinkhole covered in snow.

Trek to the ice caves

We begin the climb, the whole time trying to convince myself ricocheting down a mountain in Iceland wouldn't be a bad story to tell in heaven... or hell... wherever I end up, I'm not sure.

Reaching the top I muster up the courage to finally lift my head. As I look out over the vast land below me I feel the sense of wonder I haven't felt since I was a child. I am at the top of the world, heading to an ice cave!

Trying to control my whole world in the adult proofed environment I created back home, and believing I was succeeding, now seemed futile.

The ice cave proved to be even more enchanting. The deep hues of blue and black swirling around in a frozen snapshot of time.

Nature is so powerful, and being in it makes you realize no matter your fears or worries, ignoring and overcoming them is what will truly give you the life you want, because nothing can control that Mother.

Ice Cave, Iceland

Iceland tried to kill me, albeit in my head, but pushing passed every alarm bell telling me to just stick to what I know and go to another resort, unlocked the key to what makes me truly happy and made me feel pretty unstoppable along the way.

Traveling and discovering new and seemingly scary places allows one to live in the moment and feel excited about life again, especially after living such a monotonous routine of trying to impress others in this digital age.

Stop worrying, and start exploring, whatever that means to you. Do things often that take you out of your comfort zone and you will discover another world you have been missing out on.