Snow has started to fall just a handful of days ago — a little less, actually. Iceland is getting ready for the festivities: Christmas trees and bright decorations are coming alive everywhere, from the formal residences to the most unpretentious lodgings. And beyond those, in shops, schools and squares. After just one Sunday off the Advent calendar, in the city of Reykjavík it’s possible to breathe a very different atmosphere from that of a few days ago. Damp and rain turned into crispy whiteness; the cold doesn’t shatter the bones, but instead it caresses the skin. Finally, Icelanders run about their own businesses in the prolonged darkness like there is a whole new purpose in it.
Winter is the season for small luxuries. Here in Iceland this is especially true. The warm Icelandic sweater that looked too pretentious to be worn under the coat yesterday, feels cozier than ever today. Spending time at the café, lulled by the background chatting of other customers, is quite enjoyable when outside it’s pitch black. Taking off a pair of wet shoes after getting home has now its own special something about it.
Here by the 45th parallel we are having much the same, only with a little more daylight.
Winter is supposed to be cold. Yet we are never getting that kind of weather. Seasons are supposed to be experienced in full.
The perfect weather to stay at home reading good books, listening good music or watching good movies.Time to look inside yourself, time for introspection.
I love this! My friends and I are planning a trip to Iceland, which was totally inspired by the band Of Monsters and Men, and your site is really helpful! These pictures just make me want to quit my job, hop on a plane, and play in the snow!
Thanks for stopping by! And yes, winter is a great time to be here, if you like it cold and quiet =)