Summer trip two of three is complete. It's was ballin'. Let's discuss.
Let's start with Iceland. As the country name implies, it's a cold country. I don't think the temperature rose above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, and sun was rare. Layers are encouraged, as are scarves. Despite that, it is a beautiful country. Rugged and sparsely-populated, the people are polite, and the animals are incredible. I enjoyed meeting most, if not all, of the species that call the island home: puffins (and other birds), whales, Arctic foxes, Icelandic horses, cats, reindeer, sheep, seals, and a variety of farm animals.
Also, we visited Iceland with Viking. And they, of course, have top tier service. The food was great, the staff was great, the entertainment was great, the spa was great, the tours were great, etc. The other guests, in several cases, walked super slow and did not seem to understand that people under the age of 50 are allowed to travel and enjoy life.
My tour to Turkiye did not have the problem. Mostly because I went through EF Ultimate Break, which caters to those of us aged 18-35. And they understand that we love to travel. We love to have fun and learn things and vibe. My tour director Aynur was fantastic, as was everyone in my tour group. We still had great food, and great staff, and great entertainment, and greats spas, and great tours. I just also made 22 new friends, which makes a difference.
Furthermore, Aynur and other tour directors I've had in the past have all said they prefer groups of younger travelers to groups with older travelers. Take that as you will.
Turkiye itself was also terrific. We had good, if hot weather, and we saw some amazing sights and landscapes. The people were super-friendly. And we had the cats. SO MANY CATS. AND I WAS ABLE TO PET SO MANY OF THEM. Really, top-tier country if for no other reason than baklava, chicken skewers and cats.
Please enjoy these pictures of said cats, and other memories from Iceland and Turkiye:
