Iceland
It’s a country with a population less than a fifth the size of Broward County that nevertheless produces world-renowned culture and great artists. It’s got a capital full of European cool, and truly untamed wilds. Whatever kind of vacation you want, you can likely find it in Iceland.
The capital, Reykjavik, is a small city, but it packs a punch in terms of things to do there. It is filled with restaurants, bars, cafes and tons of attractions. And depending on what time of year you decide to travel, you can either experience the Northern Lights in the winter or spend nearly 24 hours in the sunlight during the summer. The contrast of the city’s streets and the nature-filled beauty surrounding it makes Reykjavik the sort of holiday destination where you can easily combine urbane adventures and serious nature.
Relax at the highest viewpoint in Reykjavik at the Tower Suites Reykjavik. It has eight suites on the 20th floor – perfect for anyone looking for a luxurious stay with a view. Each suite offers full panoramic views in every direction, giving you full visibility of the city, the mountains and the water. Laugavegur shopping street and the atmospheric harbor area are both either an easy walk or short drive away.
Iceland’s culinary scene is getting better and better known, and for good reason. It’s famed for its traditional dishes such as smoked and salted lamb, dried fish and herring, so there’s a good chance that you will be discovering new foods in Reykjavik. A popular fine dining restaurant in Reykjavik is Dill. It is the first and so far only Icelandic restaurant to receive a Michelin star. The menu was designed to honor Icelandic ingredients and traditions, but in their own unorthodox way. A meal at Dill is an exceptional dining experience that reflects the characteristics of Iceland.
Is it really a trip to Iceland without seeing the spectacular Northern Lights? When the nighttime skies are clear, you can see this natural wonder from downtown Reykjavik. But you may want to consider traveling outside of the city away from the light pollution for a better view. The best time to see the Aurora Borealis is from September to April. Another can’t miss attraction that you must see on your vacation in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon. This unforgettable experience is located less than an hour outside of Reykjavik, but is definitely worth the trip. Relax as you swim in 102-degree milky blue waters surrounded by black lava fields. You will feel so peaceful that you might never want to leave.
Bermuda
No less than Mark Twain once said, “You can go to heaven if you want. I’d rather stay in Bermuda.” He must have been a fan of beautiful turquoise waters and pink sandy beaches. The resort-laden island isn’t exactly short on upmarket hotels; Rosewood Bermuda takes the gold for being the most luxurious. This beautifully designed hotel has 88 guestrooms and suites, all located on a hilltop overlooking Castle Harbor. The sprawling property features multiple pools, an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts, snorkeling, kayaking, reef and shipwreck diving, a spa, fitness center and an expansive private beach. If the pink sands and scenic views aren’t enough for you to come back, then the around the clock full-service luxury will.
If you and your loved ones can’t decide on what to eat, check out the Blu Bar & Grill. From sashimi to margarita pizza to sweet-and-sour chicken, this menu has something to please everyone at the table. The cuisine is bold American with generous Italian and Asian influences, with a sushi menu as well. Blu Bar & Grill is one of Bermuda’s most popular restaurants not only for the incredible food, but also for its spectacular views. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking views of Great Sound and Hamilton Harbor.
Horseshoe Bay Beach – bet you can guess how it’s shaped – is a popular beach destination for its natural limestone cliffs and large reefs for snorkelers to explore. The Crystal and Fantasy Caves of Bermuda are a not-to-be-missed adventure. Here you will find deep, clear underground pools of azure waters and dramatic formations of limestone rock hanging from the ceiling. And don’t forget to order a rum swizzle during your stay.
