Okay, there are many other Americans in Iceland, but the one I am about to introduce you to, she is one awesome gal.
Have you ever dreamed of just selling all your stuff, packing up, and taking off for an adventure abroad??? Well that is exactly what Jeannie from Life With a View and her husband did just a few months ago when they sold everything and moved from Texas to Iceland! I told you she was awesome!
Since Jeannie has made the move to Iceland I have been lucky enough to get to know her, she even hosted the Viking and I for a Friendsgiving . You know that scene in Step Brothers when they say “did we just become best friends?”, after my first conversation with Jeannie that was how I felt!
I convinced the lovely Jeannie to hang out with me today and share her story with you all. If you like reading about my adventures around Iceland you are going to love Jeannie’s blog, she gets up to some epic adventures around Iceland, next time I am convincing her to take me with her!
Without further ramblings by me, meet my dear friend Jeannie!
So the most obvious question I have to ask, why Iceland?
I get asked that question all of the time! The honest answer is that my husband and I came to Iceland on our honeymoon and simply fell in love with it. Before we even left, we were already planning our next trip back. I felt a deep connection with this country that is hard to put into words. I was inspired by the stunning landscapes and intrigued with the Icelandic way of life. When we returned to the states we looked into the immigration process and tried to find work in Iceland. When we found the perfect job opportunity, we knew it was meant to be. We sold everything we owned and bought a one way ticket!
What is your favorite place so far in Iceland?
This is maybe the hardest question ever? There are so many that come to mind! The one that always sticks out is Jökulsárlón. It’s such a unique and beautiful sight, and if you get a clear day then the colors are breathtaking. There’s a reason we have the photo on a 50” canvas and its the headline of my blog!
Where is next on your Iceland bucket list?
Let me tell you, this is a long list! I have a document of all the places in Iceland that I want to go organized by region…I’m one of those have to see everything kind of people! Next up, I’m dying to get to the interior of Iceland. The landscapes of Landmannalaugar and Thórsmörk seem like they’re from another planet. Those are definitely my two biggest priorities for this summer.
You have been living in Iceland for a few months now, surviving the dark winter days, is there anything that has surprised you about life in Iceland?
I feel like an American when I say this, but the prices on certain items. The first time I went to buy makeup I ended up just leaving the store. Not everything is drastically different, but when it is, it always surprises me. I have to keep reminding myself that we live on a small island in the Northern Atlantic!
What is your favorite thing about life in Iceland?
I’m a nature lover, so obviously the gorgeous landscapes are the number one draw. I love that I can drive a few minutes out of the city and be in the mountains or pass by 10 different waterfalls. I also appreciate the slower pace of life.
What is the biggest cultural difference you have experienced between your life in the Iceland and life back home?
Safety - kids walk home from school starting at age five and play outside late into the night. Babies are left to nap in their strollers outside while moms meet for coffee. Iceland has one of the lowest crime rates in the world and is always in the top for safety. That is a beautiful thing!
One non-Iceland question. You and your husband have traveled all over the world! What is your favorite place you’ve ever traveled to and what is the next destination (outside of Iceland) on your list?
Before Iceland, New Zealand was my favorite and the most beautiful place I have ever seen.
Now that we live in Iceland, being so close to Europe has huge travel perks! I can’t wait to visit all of the Nordic countries and Greenland also looks incredible. Our next trip abroad will be to North and South Ireland this May.
Before you go what are three of your favorite posts that you think everyone needs to read!
How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland
10 Must See Places in West Iceland
Why Jokusarlon Glacier Lagoon is a Must see in South Iceland
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I told you Jeannie was one cool lady! I am so happy to have a blogger/adventure loving/Iceland enthusiast friend make her way up to this little island. I feel like she moved here just to be my friend, or maybe for the beautiful Icelandic nature, either way I am happy she is here!
Head over and check out Jeannie’s blog and follow along while she explores all over the beautiful Iceland!
Question of the Day?
Have you ever dreamed of moving somewhere you have visited?