Iceland - Reykjavik

During the school break in February, Christine and I took a trip to Iceland. We stayed in Reykjavik, and from there we did excursions to other parts of the island.

I advise to take a city walking tour when you are in the capital. It's not too big, and you can easily do it on foot. We had a great guide, and she brought us to all the interesting places, like the city hall, the Harpa concerthall (very modern building), Halgrim's church, ... The only bad thing was that there fell a cold sleet but of course that was hardly the fault of the guide!

We did the city walk on our first day. On another one, we made a half day tour to Raufarholshellir (those Icelandic names break your tongue) where you can visit the 5 km long lave tunnel. It's not dangerous at all, and you get a protective helmet with light. But how beautiful! It's really worth the visit.

On another occasion, we took a day trip to see the famous geisers in Iceland, also some waterfalls (there are about 130 on the island), a died-out crater and the shifting of the teutonic plates.

During our stay in Iceland we also visited a tomato farm (quite interesting, and the tomatoes they grow are the best I've ever eaten). We also took a trip to the south of the island, where you can find the black sand beaches, and authentic Viking houses. They built these against a cave, and they were supposed to be very warm in winter.

What I can also recommend in Iceland, is the very clean air you breathe. The purest on earth. After one day already, you could spot how your skin became softer and cleaner!

Italy - Milan

During last year's Christmas hoidays, Christine and I made a trip to Milan (as a starting point to a consequent trip to Switzernd). We took a direct flight from Brussels Airport. 

We stayed for 4 nights in Milan, because it was winter and some activities could not take place. In summer, you can probably stay somewhat longer, as from Milan you have easy access to Lake Como and some other towns are quickly reached by train.

The hotel we stayed (Hilton Milan) was - in fact - close to the railway station. There was also a metro station present, which made it easy to travel around in town. You could pay for those metro tickets by just putting your bankcard against the eye. 

For food, Milan is great. We had lunch or dinner in some fine eateries and enjoyed the local specialities. Just try the veal Milanese. A cartwheel plate of meat, accompanied by baked potatoes and vegetables. 

In Milan, you must of course visit the Duomo. We did the tour (bought our tickets online) and also went up to the roof, from where you have a great panorama over the town center. 

Another place you can't miss is the convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie. It's there you can view the famous painting of Leonardo da Vinci, The Last Supper. Just know, you have to book in advance and you only get 15 minutes of viewing the painting!

If you love opera, you must attend a performance at the Scala. Unfortunately, during the time we were there they did an opera we didn't quite like. I love Verdi and Vivaldi, even Wagner, but that's about it.

And of course, Milan is a paradise for shoppers. All the high end shops are to be found there. And they are all in the neighbourhood of the Duomo and Scala. Designers galore! There was a Christmas sale going on, but even though now I'm skinny enough to fit into designer clothes, I didn't see anything I liked. I did find the dress I've been looking for for ages: the perfect little black dress. A dress that completely fits my body, not too many frills or adornments, just reaching to the knee (if longer, I look ridiculous). Not exactly cheap, but not too expensive either. The perfect gift for Christmas.