Issue link: https://www.balharbourdigital.com/i/1170372
MY MOTHER'S FAMILY is from Iceland and when I first visited, it was neither a hotspot nor a hub that felt connected to the rest of the world. But, lured by a desire to escape, write, swim and connect with my roots, in 2006 I decided to live there for a stint. Since then, work has moved me to New York, Miami and LA, but my heart's internal compass continues to point north. So much so that one recent New Year's Eve, I was married under Reykjavík's legendary fireworks. You see, Iceland and I are in a committed long-distance relationship. Increasingly these days, many fantasize about visiting this bucket-list destination. Indeed, no scroll through Instagram seems complete without a majestic northern lights snap, or odes to Icelandic horses, dramatic ords and waterfalls galore. But to say that Iceland is having a moment doesn't do justice to how far the tiny country (population: 360,390) has come, with new openings, opportunities and experiences luring me back every few months. It helps that it is also more connected and accessible than ever before. rough my years of visiting the island nation, I've learned who to ask for all the best Icelandic insights. Here, I share some of my personal favorites, honed through friendships, family and my ongoing fascination with this remarkable place. First and foremost, one must approach the country with an understanding that Icelandic luxury is more synonymous with comfort than lavish extravagance. For Reykjavík lodging, I recommend the deco-style Hotel Borg, old-school Hotel Holt, Nordic-chic 101 Hotel, or the new Konsulat Hotel, all of which are perfectly situated among the best restaurants in the heart of downtown. My top choice these days is the Middle Eastern-influenced Sumac—order the cod and herbaceous cauliflower. Soon, visitors will also have the option to stay at Scandinavia's first Edition hotel, slated to open later this year right beside the stunning Harpa Concert Hall, which features a glistening façade by artist Olafur Eliasson and is the most glorious building in all of Iceland. For those craving an opportunity to unplug and feel as though they've been transported to another planet, 198 BAL HARBOUR "Work has moved me to New York, Miami and LA, but my heart's internal compass continues to point north. So much so that one New Year's Eve, I was married under ReykjavIk's legendary fIreworks."