For many years, Icelanders have learned to make practical use of Volcanic activity. The country uses geothermal energy generated by volcanic heat to warm homes, power cities, and fill the hot springs and lagoons that are so loved by tourists. That same heat fuels Iceland’s famous bathing culture, from rustic pools to luxury spas.

Most Famous Volcanoes in Iceland:

• Hekla – One of Iceland’s most active volcanoes, once believed to be a gateway to hell in medieval times.
• Katla – A powerful volcano hidden beneath the Mýrdalsjökull glacier.
• Eyjafjallajökull – The volcano whose 2010 eruption famously disrupted air travel across Europe.
• Fagradalsfjall – Known for recent eruptions that allowed visitors to safely hike and witness flowing lava up close.

Travellers are Drawn to Experience Iceland’s Dramatic Landscape:

Even without seeing an eruption, many travellers have been drawn to activities involving volcanoes everywhere in Iceland:

• Walking across ancient lava fields
• Bathing in geothermally heated waters
• Hiking craters and volcanic ridges
• Seeing steam rise from the ground in geothermal areas

Iceland’s volcanoes aren’t just natural attractions—they are the backbone of the country’s identity. The land is constantly shifting, reshaping itself, and reminding visitors that here, nature is very much alive. And if you’re keen on learning more, The Lava Show is one attraction you should put on your list.

Exploring The Lava Show:

In the meantime, visit their site here and also follow The Lava Show on Instagram, where the exhibition’s co-founder, Ragnhildur, gives up to date status on volcanic action in Iceland.

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Photos by The Lava Show

The post Where Fire Meets Ice: Iceland and it’s powerful Volcanic Landscape appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Mexico City (CDMX) Art Week dominates the metropolis in early February with a massive celebration of contemporary art and culture. For one week, art fairs, gallery exhibitions, pop-up installations, and cultural events flood the city, with most of the activity in central areas like Polanco, Condesa, Roma, and Juárez. The schedule can feel overwhelming, but these neighbourhoods are close together, making it easier to fit everything in.

On the Art Week schedule are the main art fairs, plus satellite projects and independent exhibitions. The heavy hitters are Zona Maco, Material Art Fair, and Salón ACME — they draw the top galleries, celebrity artists, and art collectors. To prevent Art Week FOMO, keep reading!

The Best Art Fair: How To Choose?

My advice? Go to the big three: ACME, Material, and Zona. It’s worth it for the full experience. 

Buy tickets in advance. I strongly recommend getting Salón ACME tickets as soon as they’re released. Entry is timed to manage crowds, and slots do sell out. ACME’s opening day has wild energy, with a line down the block. ZONAMACO and Material Fair take place in much larger venues and have tickets for specific days or a multi-day pass. 

Now the challenge: How do you see the main fairs and still have time for other art events and sightseeing across the city? I’ll admit, when I first arrived, I felt overwhelmed by so many options. CDMX pulls you in multiple directions, often away from the very thing you came for. 

Here’s how I made it work — with a mix of intentional planning and then total chance! I knew I had to be at opening day at Salón ACME, the most anticipated art party of the week. Then, without really planning it, I went to Material Fair and Zona Maco on the final day of Art Week and did both fairs in one afternoon, which actually worked out perfectly. Quick tip: These two fairs are a bit out of the way, so bundling them together makes sense. Uber or DiDi between venues is recommended.

Once you’ve locked in the big three, the rest of Art Week opens up nicely — gallery hopping in Condesa, boutique shopping in Juárez, and day drinking in Roma Norte, if that’s how you roll on holiday!

CDMX Art Week: How The Fairs Compare

For me, committing to all three main fairs worked out, alongside a shortlist of CDMX galleries and arty events. With a bit of manoeuvring, I still had time to sightsee, shop, and enjoy wonderful meals and nights out meeting people over mezcal cocktails. 

I’ll share budget-friendly travel tips below. First, more on the must-see shows of the week.

Zona Maco is considered Latin America’s largest international art fair. It brings together domestic and international galleries under one roof, showcasing contemporary art alongside design objects, fashion, jewellery, publications, and more. Running for over two decades, Zona hosts more than 200 galleries from over 25 countries. Onsite, you’ll find outdoor patio areas for coffee or tequila, an indoor food court, and all the practical amenities you might need, including gender-neutral washrooms. 

Material Art Fair, in its 12th edition, is said to spotlight experimental and emerging contemporary art, featuring smaller, often independent exhibitors, with over 75 exhibitors from 20+ countries. Compared to Zona Maco, Material Fair might be considered a bit more edgy by the art world. When you need a break, there’s an indoor café and a large outdoor patio with plenty of food and drink options. Between the two, I found Material Fair a bit more intimate and less daunting in scale. I think I was able to see everything at Material, whereas at Zona, I felt more pressed for time to take it all in.

Salón ACME is an art fair created by artists for artists. The 13th edition was a mix of emerging talent and cultural programs, all within the historic walls of Proyecto Público Prim — an exhibition space very different from the convention-centre feel of the other main fairs. The Salón ACME venue is itself a work of art: a 1905 Belle Époque mansion with multiple levels, inner courtyards, vaulted passageways, and a sprawling rooftop patio bar. Beyond the maze of exhibition rooms, there were several drink and cocktail bars, food areas, and a massive enclosed yard with a revolving roster of DJs — perfect for mingling closely with the art world glitterati.

For satellite Art Week events, check out independent offerings from Clavo, Bada, Laguna, and Lago Algo. Smaller-scale exhibitions are generally less overwhelming and often free. At La Laguna, I enjoyed exploring the multi-level building, a former 1920s textile factory now focused on architecture and design. It has lots of cute artist spaces, a huge open rooftop, and small kitchens for snacks and drinks. Quick tip: Check each location’s website or Instagram beforehand, as opening hours and schedules can shift during the week.

Take an Art Week Breather: Best Spots to Eat, Drink & Shop in CDMX

When you’re not at art shows, take time to explore what your neighbourhood has to offer. To make the most of Art Week, you’re likely staying central in Roma, La Condesa, or Juárez. I find it easy to walk between these areas, but on a hot day or after dark an Uber is an easy way to save your energy and stay comfortable.

Arty Afternoon in Condesa  

I suggest Condesa and San Miguel Chapultepec for wandering among the cluster of galleries in the area — it makes sightseeing a breeze. My top picks include Kurimanzutto, Le Laboratoire, Galería RGR, and MOONI on calle Fernando Montes de Oca.  

Reserve a spot at Cancino San Miguel, a top-rated Italian eatery. I recommend the bolognese pizza. The area is also peppered with cute boutiques for one-of-a-kind, made-in-Mexico souvenirs. Pop into Olio Fino gourmet grocery store for their awesome mezcal chocolate truffles, a perfect treat for teetotalers. 

For a sensory experience, visit Perfumérica Condesa. The walls are lined with metal funnels attached to atomizer bulbs that you squeeze to release distinctive scents. This clever way of sampling aromas lets you choose a perfume using just your nose and intuition. Definitely a trip highlight — my travel buddies and I had a blast here, and we each took home a Perfumérica mini to enjoy back in Toronto.

Get Up & Go in Trendy Roma  

Focusing on Roma Norte, here’s what I recommend. A cute spot to ease into your day is at the coffee truck Café Tormenta. Once caffeinated, walk over to Gallery OMR. On this trip, it featured one of the best shows I saw during Art Week, and as a bonus, one of the artists is Canadian. From Winnipeg, Marcel Dzama’s show I Am The Sun, I Am The New Year runs until April, so there’s still a chance to catch it. The upper gallery featured work by British-Mexican painter Leonora Carrington. If surrealism and mysticism are your vibe, you’ll appreciate how Dzama and Carrington’s pieces complement each other.

For edgy Mexican fashion — the kind recommended by Coolhunter Mexico — check out The Mexa Society and Mexico Is The Shit Store. The latter has slogan tees, jackets, socks, boots, purses, caps, and even ponchos proudly proclaiming “Mexico is the Shit.” Mexa Society offers a curated selection of men’s and women’s clothing, funky bags, shoes, sunglasses, and sick jewelry. I got a silver orchid choker by Astralisis that gets many compliments.

If rooftop bars and meeting new people is your thing when travelling, plan a night at Revuelta Queer House. Spread over two upper floors, it has a large rooftop with lots of intimate tables, plus an art gallery, performance space, and small kitchen. I went twice and met fun folks from all over, even Torontonians. The vibe is friendly, the DJ is on point, service is good, drinks are affordable, and the bar food is actually really tasty.

Wonderful, Charming Juárez

This neighbourhood feels like a little village tucked away from the city’s commotion, with everything you need for shopping, coffee, cocktails, and food within a few blocks.

Two cute cafés not to pass by are Kiyo Café, with its unique coffee drinks and excellent egg toast sandwich, and El Minutito, ideal for slow morning coffee and light snacks like a small pancake with honey. Also in the area, Pronti serves delicious Italian sandwiches on fresh-baked bread, and Café Nin is ideal for breakfast or lunch. For a casual late-night bite, Comedor Lucerna is a colourful food court with a variety of street food vendors and a full bar. Looking for a wild night out? Head to Blow Bar, where drinks are huge and drag artists literally hang from the rafters. For me, Blow was an epic night and many pesos were spent!

Juárez is also known for fabulous boutiques featuring made-in-Mexico brands. My favourite is the Carla Fernández Juárez boutique. Her designs pay visual tribute to the legacy of indigenous and mestizo communities as well as acts of resistance. Each piece of clothing and accessory is handcrafted ethically, using the finest fabrics and materials. When it comes to Mexican fashion design, Carla Fernández’s work is iconic.

To be fair, these are just a handful of spots worth checking out — CDMX is a megacity! But during Art Week, these neighbourhoods offer an abundance of experiences that keep you connected and exploring what makes Mexico City so special.

Stretch Your Pesos: Art Week Money Hacks

CDMX can get pricey fast, especially during Art Week. Here’s a few ways to keep spending in check:

• Try DiDi ride-share app: Often more affordable than Uber, though it can be a bit slower for pick ups.
• Check ticket options for art fairs: Prices may vary, for example, opening day of Salón ACME is more. If you want an immersive art experience without an extra cost, look for the annual Material Monday gallery tour with guide and shuttle bus (it’s free and a lot of fun!).
• Visit free museums: Many Mexico City museums have free days. Soumaya Museum has one of the best art collections I saw, and admission is free.
• Skip posh café breakfasts: Grab a yogurt, croissant, or donut at a local Sumesa grocery store and pair it with a coffee from OXXO convenience store.
• Cut roaming fees: Use a digital eSIM like Airalo. I had no issues staying connected around CDMX without expensive daily roaming charges.

When Is Best Time To Visit Mexico City? 

From my experience, the best time to visit Mexico is when it’s winter in Toronto! Last year I got to experience Christmas in Mexico — loved it! Now that I’ve done Mexico City Art Week, I would definitely come back in early February again.  

My advice is don’t overthink it. CDMX has a multitude of events going on year-round, and you don’t need to be a full-time art lover to enjoy Art Week. Just visit Mexico already.

Thanks to ACME Salón, ZONAMACO, and Material Fair for giving me a deeper appreciation of the Mexican and Latin American art world. And thank you to Air Canada* for getting me to and from Toronto smoothly.

*Planning a getaway to Mexico? Air Canada is expanding its flight schedule to meet growing Canadian demand for travel to and from Mexico.

The post CRUSH CDMX FOMO! How To Maximize Mexico City Art Week appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Getting to Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica’s largest and most celebrated national park, from our previous destination was altogether quite easy, private car hire simply arranged through our hosts at Arenas Del Mar. The coastal route – it’s about an hour-and-a-half’s drive from Uvita to Arenas Del Mar – affording us plenty of opportunities to marvel at the views of the Pacific.

Upon arrival, our wonderfully welcoming hosts greeted us with fresh drinks and snacks, evidently operating on the (sound) principle that no hotel guest should go hungry, thirsty, or uncomfortable for more than five minutes at a time. A smooth check-in, and golf cart ride to our private suite, and we were all set.

Highlights of the Arenas Del Mar resort itself included, first, the incredible beachside restaurant, the sand practically trembling with adorable hermit crabs scurrying about.

The fantastic and varied menu – ranging from vegan to seafood options, caught fresh from the nearby ocean – meant that every meal was a delight, breakfast to supper (and after-dinner snack, if so inclined). There, too, we would encounter numerous iguanas (evidently indifferent to the crabs scurrying about their toes at all times), sloths, and, most thrillingly, the resident family of white-faced capuchin monkeys.

ADM (let’s just call it that for short) is also a wonderful place to relax, a prime example of the kinds of spots where it’s possible to surround yourself with the wilds even without setting foot off the property.

In addition to the sloths, monkeys, and the rest, we also regularly encountered bright crimson hermit crabs, shimmering butterflies, and more than a few snakes. During our morning yoga group session, we even encountered a (friendly, nonconfrontational) scorpion. (Impressively, not one person screamed.)

One wonderful aspect of ADM is its beach access, visitors able to make their way down from the resort and out onto the nearby Manuel Antonio beach, which connects (maybe a half-hour walk) to the western frontier of the park proper. You could, in theory, walk and/or swim all the way out to the park, though you’re better off saving energy for the hike within. Cheap taxi rates are available any time to deliver you right to the main entrance.

Manuel Antonio is, rightfully, famous even amongst the highly competitive class of Latin American national parks.

Established in 1972 – in part, in reaction to threatened real estate developments – it’s technically one of the smallest Costa Rican parks, even as it hosts its most impressively biodiverse range of species.

Animals we encountered there included, among others, sloths of the two-toed and three-toed variety, monkeys (more capuchins and a howler), butterflies (the bright-blue morpho is gorgeous), snakes, frogs, crabs, more monkeys, coatis (they kind of look like a raccoon mixed with an anteater), and various birds.

Sadly, we were not lucky enough to spot whales or dolphins out on the water, but not for lack of trying. Among other notable features, Manuel Antonio doubles as a marine preserve, serving as home to various aquatic species.

Rounding out our trip, we made our best efforts at going aquatic ourselves, borrowing the resort’s boogie boards for some goofing around along the beach. Not that it needed any more reason to visit, but we are happy to report that the beaches by Manuel Antonio have ideal conditions: just windy enough for some fun waves to fool around in (and more serious surfing further out, if that’s your thing), but not so windy that it ever felt unsafe. For travellers with kids, the combo of nearby National Park, on-site wildlife to marvel at, and beautiful beach makes for an ideal spot.

Sadly, as these things do, our journey came to an end after a too-short sojourn to this most beautiful of Central American countries. While we’ll always love the cenotes of Mexico, and the rios of Brazil, there’s no question that Costa Rica, with its extraordinary diversity of things to do and to see (and to eat), will always have a special place in our hearts.

Concluding our stay with yet another delightful meal – this time, an all-vegan feast – we waved our farewells to our hosts and our newfound friends – human and wildlife alike.

***
The Arenas Del Mar resort operates year-round out of Manuel Antonio in central Costa Rica. For more on our Costa Rica adventures, click here for our first entry in the series.

The post Las Aventuras en Costa Rica, Part Two: Arenas Del Mar Resort, Manuel Antonio Park appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Here’s what to see and do in and around the land of fire and ice!

ARTS & CULTURE

Reykjavík is home to a rich array of art galleries and museums worth exploring. For lovers of contemporary art, the Reykjavík Art Museum—located in the harbour area—is an ideal place to start. Currently exhibition featuring the work of Steina Vasulka, the renowned Iceland-born media artist whose practice was deeply inspired by sound.

The museum also houses an extensive collection by another celebrated Icelandic artist, Erró, best known for his bold paintings and collages that draw from pop culture imagery. A must-see!

The National Museum of Iceland is a great visit for a few hours to explore over 2,000 artefacts and learn about the history of the country and early Viking settlers.

Iceland is home to approximately 63 volcanoes, with a handful having been active in recent years. But not to worry—Icelanders are exceptionally prepared. To truly understand the country’s volcanic power, a visit to The Lava Show in Reykjavík is essential. This is far more than a typical visitor attraction; it offers fascinating, science-backed insights alongside historical context that brings the story of lava to life. Most remarkably, visitors have the rare opportunity to safely get close to real, flowing molten lava (1,100°C / 2,000°F), gaining a visceral understanding of its immense power and the destruction it can leave behind. This is a must-experience attraction!

Harpa is one of Reykjavík’s cultural destinations and home of the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, is worth a visit at any time of year. Check their schedule for any performances. Check out “The Ascension”, where new voices across trends and music styles are explored. Their gift shop is a well-curated collection of beautiful Icelandic-made goods.

For something quirky, visit the Punk Rock Museum located at the curiously right at Bankastraeti Zero — a former public washroom with stalls still intact. Just don’t use them. It’s a small but fascinating look at punk rock history in Iceland.

Speaking of quirky and unusual, The Icelandic Phallological Museum is one you may want to explore. The collection started with modest personal collection when founder and original curator, Sigurður Hjartarson, was given a bull penis pizzle as a joke by his teaching staff when he worked as a headmaster in the small town of Akranes. Giving him a phallus became an ongoing joke. Sigurður got some interesting specimens, and an interest in collecting more mammal species developed. This museum has grown into the world’s only museum dedicated to phallology, featuring donations from across the globe. This unique attraction remains entirely independent and family-owned. Giggles aside, it’s a popular one to put on your list!

LITERARY CULTURE

Reading and writing are very much part of the fabric of Iceland. In fact, the country leads with a 99% literacy rate (source: Icelandic National League of North America) and has been a very important part of Iceland’s culture for centuries. During the Christmas season, they have Jólabókaflóðið, a tradition of giving books as gifts.

With such a strong literacy rate, it also means you’ll find bookstores everywhere in Reykjavík! Aside from bringing home local literature for yourself or for gifts, you may want to visit Hús Máls og Menningar (The House of Speech and Culture), where The Bookstore Band plays nearly every night of the year between 8 pm to 11 pm. It’s one of the most affordable and fun nights out in Reykjavik.

DAY TRIPS OUT OF THE CITY:

Exploring Iceland on your own is absolutely doable, especially when the weather is on your side. But if you’d prefer to sit back, relax, and simply take in the breathtaking scenery, going with a trusted tour company is a wonderful option. On this visit, we booked with Icelandia / Reykjavík Excursions and enjoyed a comfortable, well-paced day tour that hit all the highlights—making it an especially lovely choice for first-time visitors to Iceland.

Golden Circle Tour is about a six- hour excursion taking visitors to three major points of interest: Geysir geothermal area (where Strokkur Geyser naturally spews out 30 metres of water from its spout every few minutes), Gullfoss Waterfall and Thingvellir National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site). There are some great add-on options, including visiting Friðheimar, a sustainable greenhouse farm.

The South Coast Wonders tour is a 10-hour tour with breathtaking stops along the way. Visit the stunning Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, walk along the famous Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach, famous for its basalt columns. Admire the Sólheimajökull Glacier, and explore the charming village of Vík. The drive itself is beautiful as you pass through the rugged and picturesque terrain of Iceland. Note: Bring your waterproof rain gear if you intend on walking behind the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall!

NORTHERN LIGHTS HUNTING:

Most people visit Iceland with the hopes of seeing the Aurora Borealis. But it’s never a guarantee. That’s why on a recent visit, I had booked with Aurora Viking. They are serious about hunting down nature’s best light show and it’s a great experience! This expertly guided experience is also based on science and real-time data for a great chance of a sighting or two. The group is also smaller, so you’ll venture out in a van rather than a large tour bus. They can venture into remote viewing locations that larger vehicles cannot navigate.

You can research how to take the best photos to capture the northern lights on your phone or DSLR camera.  I carried my iPhone 16 Plus (night mode and stayed super still) and was able to get great photos.

However, their guides will also take professional photos on the spot, so you can really enjoy the moment without fumbling in the dark. They will send via email within 48 hours. You can read my experience here.

GEOTHERMAL SPAS IN ICELAND:

Iceland is a country that has nearly 50 natural hot springs and dozens of thermally heated public pools and spas in the surrounding areas of Reykjavík. So, it’s no surprise that bathing in the therapeutic warm waters is part of the culture and popular for locals and visitors alike. Two of the most popular for tourists are the Sky Lagoon and the Blue Lagoon.

Sky Lagoon is known for offering a seven-step Skjólritual that incorporates all your senses for a beautiful, relaxing experience. The first step is stepping into the Laug geothermal waters with a sweeping view of the horizon that immediately unwinds stressed-out souls. Then, the easy-to-follow path leads you to Kuldi for an invigorating outdoor cold soak before heading indoors to the saunas, rain mist room and more. Mýkt, the area where their famous gentle scrub is used to help soften the skin. Take your time at Sky Lagoon and enjoy a bite at their casual cafe on site before heading back to the city.

There’s no need to rush here. Check-in times help pace out the number of people enter but it never felt crowded when we visited. There are beautiful private shower rooms that you can pay a little extra to use as well. Many choose to go for the epic sunset. We allocated 3.5 hours here.

Blue Lagoon is another very popular destination for visitors. The natural silica and the “blue” mineral-rich warm geothermal waters create a soothing way to enjoy your time in Iceland. It can get busy here, but it’s efficient. There’s a café on site for light meals, snacks and beverages. There is also LAVA, a beautiful full-service restaurant, to enjoy a meal featuring finer dining. And bonus! You can dine in the comforts of a cozy robe!

Note: Blue Lagoon is out of Reykjavík’s city centre, so many people plan to visit en route to or from the airport to keep their itinerary more efficient. There are airport transfers available and luggage storage on site. We allocated 3.5 hours, but with a meal at LAVA, we recommend adding an additional 2 hours.

WHAT TO SHOP FOR IN ICELAND:

Bringing back a slice of Icelandic life goes beyond t-shirts, mugs, and keychains. You’ll find unique items to help make memories last. From hand-knit woolly sweaters to local fragrances and skincare lines to chocolates and lava salt — lots of thoughtful memory inspiring momentos!

But we should mention that nothing is inexpensive in Iceland. Books are popular choices, and bookstores are bountiful in this city. Literature is woven into the Icelandic culture, so there is no shortage of fiction, nonfiction, and even cookbooks to bring home with you.

For apparel, look to Icelandic brands 66° North and Icewear. Artisan hand-knit sweaters will offer warm memories. Shops along Reykjavík’s main shopping area, Laugavegur, have lots of options but are not overwhelming. In this area, you’ll also find artisan and other gift shops.

A quick tip! If you’ve eyed something while poking around the shops but didn’t go back to get it, chances are you’ll be able to find it at the airport when you depart. Head there early so you have time for last-minute souvenir shopping, including Icelandic skincare lines, candies, snacks, wools, and yes, books!

DINING OUT IN REYKJAVÍK:

Iceland’s cuisine is centred around what is naturally sourced. Mostly, you’ll find cod and lamb to be the main attractions. Icelandic Lamb Soup/Stew, and cod fish and chips are popular. You may also want to try fermented shark?

When I first visited ten years ago, there weren’t a lot of options for global cuisine and certainly rare to find North American chains. Noticeably, the coffee bar culture was strong and quaint cafés were everywhere. Today, you’ll find more options as travellers from the around the world visit. But one thing is sure, dining is costly here, even at the most casual eatery, as a lot of ingredients need to be imported.

What is a welcoming sight are several Food Halls that have opened up for more casual dining options. A popular one is the Pósthús Food Hall & Bar with nine restaurants within. Originally, this building was a post office, but now offers great food options from Icelandic fare to burgers and pizzas, as well as sushi and Indian food. It’s a bustling place!

Another one is the Hlemmur Food Hall — the original food hall that’s taken over a former bus terminal. It’s a bit smaller than the other but decent options.

For a nice sit-down meal, we were beyond thrilled with discovering Duck & Rose. This restaurant has more elevated dishes leaning towards Italian, including a Duck Salad and Truffle Rigatoni. Portions are generous.

I also noticed that there were no “bills” given at the end of a restaurant meal. You simply go to the cash desk to pay.

ICELANDIC HOT DOGS?

Yup, it’s a thing, and everyone needs to try it even if it’s just to say that you did. The most famous one, of course, is Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand (Tryggvagata 1); there are other locations, including the airport. What makes it different? It’s made with a blend of lamb, pork, and beef served on a toasted bun. Order it “eina með öllu” (with everything)! That is, remoulade, sweet mustard, raw onions, and crispy fried onions.

Want to take some interesting and delicious snacks home? Find dried fish snacks, candies (Kandís is amazing) and even the hot dog sauce!

WHERE TO STAY IN REYKJAVÍK

Canopy by Hilton Reykjavík City Centre: is a quaint hotel tucked just off the main shopping and dining street, easy access to bus stops for excursion pick up. Vintage vinyl, record players and books can be found in the lobby area. Weekends in Reykjavík can get a little rowdy with visitors but the two times I’ve stayed here, it hasn’t been bothersome at all. Windows are sealed tight to keep the noise out. Cozy vibe and aesthetic with equally cozy common areas to socialize, read a book or enjoy a glass of wine or tea.  Great full on breakfast buffet and made to order eggs were included during my stay at the hotel’s Geiri Smart Restaurant. And a casual grab-and-go style café is convenient and relatively inexpensive way to grab sandwiches, baked goods, and snacks, especially if you’re out day tripping and need a little something.

Iceland Parliament Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton: is a larger hotel with 163 rooms in the historical Austurvöllur Town Square. The hotel is designed forward, and what I loved about this spot was the incredible collection of contemporary artwork found throughout. The restaurant is outstanding as well, and a perfect spot to start the day (breakfast buffet and a la carte menu is worth it). A real selling feature is the Parliament Spa — its very own spa that includes hot geothermal pool, soothing saunas, and refreshing cold mist room. Private cabanas for relaxing are great for unwinding after a day of exploring. A great way to enjoy the country’s love for water therapies.

A FEW USEFUL TIPS:

Getting Around: Reykjavík is a walkable city and easy to navigate. Just ask your hotel concierge to provide a physical map or use your Apple Maps/Google Maps on your phone. The city is also efficient with their public transit system. Taxis are expensive, but the bus system to major points of interest (airport and excursions) through the bus terminal is straightforward and more cost-effective.

It takes about 50 minutes to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavík City Centre. Taxis can be found outside of the airport terminal or booked online in advance, and cost approximately $180+ Canadian, depending on drop-off location.

More commonly used by travellers is the Flybus service ($46 per person). You can book that online ahead of time (recommended) or purchase at the kiosk when you arrive. If you travel with Icelandair, they also sell them during the flight. Flybus takes you to the main bus terminal just outside the city, and there you will transfer to a smaller van that will get you close to your hotel.

WHEN VISITING IN WINTER MONTHS:

Remember that Iceland is close to the Arctic Circle, and December means there are only 4 to 5 hours of daylight. So, you’ll want to plan your outings accordingly. Weekends are busy (Thursday to Sunday) as many travellers, especially from the UK, descend on the city. It can be rowdy in the popular restaurant and bar area of Laugavegur, and its surrounding streets like Hverfisgata and Skólavörðustígur. but overall the city does seem calm down the rest of the week.

WHAT TO PACK:

It’s true that the weather can change several times in a day. What’s surprising to many is that it can be a few degrees milder than Toronto due to the trade winds. It was -17ºC at home and 9ºC at home when I was there.  It’s highly recommended dress in layers, especially in the winter. It’s also casual everywhere.

• A warm coat with a hood (easy to pull over in case of rain, sleet, snow)
• Wool or cashmere sweaters, sweatshirts, turtlenecks
• Under garments: long sleeve shirt and leggings (highly recommend Uniqlo’s HeatTech line, seriously)
• A warm fuzzy jacket and compression leggings for comfort travel (Check out Black Mountain)
• Bathing suit and flip flops if you plan to hit any spas
• Socks
• Hat/toque
• Gloves
• Footwear: Definitely consider warm boots for excursions (Olangs with their small spikes that turn out are my go to), low boots for the city (hello Blundstone’s), sneakers or walking shoes for city streets if the sidewalks are not icy. Clamp-on style cleats are handy and better to purchase before your travels. You can purchase them in Iceland as well, but they will most likely cost more than at home.
• Walking Sticks if you have for exploring the country in winter months and the icy terrain
• A cross-body bag and a convenient foldaway shopping tote

ICELANDIC ISK CURRENCY CONVERSION FOR CANADIANS:

From what we’ve seen, pricing for everything is shown in Iceland Króna (ISK). Here are some examples…(as of December 2025)

• 30,000 ISK is $358 Canadian Dollars
• 2,500 ISK is $27.44 Canadian Dollars
• 950 ISK is $10.40 Canadian Dollars

The good thing is you won’t need cash for any transactions. Visa, Mastercard, and Apple Pay are widely accepted even at the famous Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur hot dog stand. But I always recommend bringing some cash for backup anywhere you travel to. US currency is still generally the easiest to convert at local banks. You may also want to let your bank know that you will be travelling, so they will make a note —  and you won’t get a momentary freeze on your account.

When you pay with cards, the transaction machines will prompt you to select the currency rate you would like to be charged. Choose ISK for a better rate.

TIPPING ETIQUETTE IN ICELAND:

Tipping is not actually common nor expected. Why? They actually are paid decent liveable wages and the country has strong labour laws. However, if you feel compelled to tip, do so in cash. We did for tour guides and drivers as they really went above and beyond expectations. We also left a bit for hotel cleaning staff. We asked if there was a preference in currency for tips, and everyone was fine with ISK or US dollars.  Again, not expected, but they accepted graciously.

There’s definitely a lot to see anytime of year in Iceland. Both times I’ve stayed five day,s and in the winter months. But it’s still not enough – next time I’ll aim for summer months to experience what it’s like to have optimum daylight.

If you have any questions, feel free to ask on our IG page. Stay tuned for more!

*Thank you, Iceland Tourism and individual attractions and destinations for such an incredible experience! 

The post First Timer’s Guide to the Best of Reykjavík, Iceland appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Everyone knows FAO Schwartz, but real ones know that the place to be is Astoria’s Museum of Nostalgia, a vintage toy store-cum-micromuseum featuring a wealth of geeky goods to make even the most cynical visitor cry tears of nostalgia. While the interior “museum” (really more of a mock living room displaying off-sale items, as seen in the photo above) is fun to peruse, the real joy is in digging through all the remarkably fairly-priced Ninja Turtles, Batmans (Batmen?), Trolls, trading cards (Jaws 3D! Deep Space Nine!), He-Men and He-Women, and oh so much more. Founded by couple Phebe and Jeff – they’re almost always there, and both incredibly friendly and knowledgeable – it’s a wonderful place to get lost in.

Speaking of Astoria and nostalgia, the Museum of the Moving Image – founded in 1988 – has been wowing visitors for nearly forty years with its exemplary collection of movie props, scripts, and other paraphernalia. Highlights include the permanent Jim Henson Collection – yes, Big Bird and Kermit are here – alongside costumes worn by the likes of Robin Williams and Eddie Murphy, and a delightfully macabre showing of horror ware, such as The Exorcist’s notorious “vomit device” worn by star Linda Blair. It also has a surprisingly strong assortment of classic video games and game devices – including several working arcade machines.

On a higher brow note, the Metropolitan Opera continues to draw in audiences with stellar production after stellar production, including the newly commissioner The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay, a strikingly produced adaptation of Michael Chabon’s Pulitzer price-winning novel, as well as lesser-known gems like Bellini’s I Puritani (a New Year’s Eve premiere) and returning favourites like the holiday abridged The Magic Flute.

The Magic Flute is an interesting beast – truncating Mozart’s magnificent work into a single-act, sub-two-hour kid-friendly endeavour is a noble idea, and Julie Taymor’s designs are, of course, excellent. While the audiences we encountered there were never anything less than enthralled – and the singers in top form, as usual – we admit we did struggle with some of Taymor’s artistic choices. In particular, by trying to stuff in everything from the opera – by slicing arias in half, for the most part – it felt altogether too rushed. It would probably have been wiser to excise certain scenes (or characters – looking at you Monastatos) entirely. That said, Papageno’s (ad-libbed?) 6-7 joke was unforgivable.

Easily the highlight of this winter’s offerings was an evening performance at Speakeasy Magick, newly relocated from its old home in the now-defunct McKittrick Hotel (of which more, here).

The brainchild of Emursive Entertainment, the production company which imported Sleep No More to New York and subsequently produced the short-lived Life and Trust, the conceit of Speakeasy is that you’ve been snuck into a hidden bar, where a team of magicians rotates table to table.

The individual performers can be hit or miss, but there’s no denying the thrill of witnessing feats of legerdemain up close and personal, each “set” feeling like a personalized, small-scale magic show just for you and your table of eight. (Definitely make sure you go with friends.)

If the magic entertained us, we were pleasantly surprised by the quality of both the food and drink. There’s an initial waiting area with a bar, but once you get to the real venue – no spoilers here! – there’s a fantastic cocktail menu and plentiful snacks, including a mysteriously seasoned popcorn which we couldn’t get enough of. Honestly, though, even the experience of entering into Speakeasy Magick – again, no spoilers! – makes the price of admission worth it.

There’s so much more we could go on about – browsing for hours at The Strand, experiencing the recently reopened The Frick Collection, hunting for vintage finds in the East Village – but then we can’t give up all our tips and tricks. Half the fun of visiting the city that never sleeps is the exhaustion of learning that for yourself.

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For more on the Toronto Guardian’s ongoing love affair with New York, check out Rebecca Felgate’s Mother-Daughter Road Trip from a few years ago.

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