WEBVTT
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Hi. I'm Rick Steves on the wild
and western fringe of Europe.
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It's Iceland--the land
of thunderous waterfalls,
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fiery volcanoes,
and the midnight sun.
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With a resilient culture
and epic natural thrills,
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we'll see why
this little island
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is so dang popular.
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Thanks for joining us!
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♪
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To fully experience Iceland,
we start in the capital city,
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Reykjavík, then we day-trip
deep into the blustery interior
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to sample the power of nature
on the famed Golden Circle,
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and then we do
the epic road trip:
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Iceland's 800-mile Ring Road
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circling this
unforgettable island.
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Rick, voice-over:
Reykjavík, with its
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landmark church,
ruddy urban charm,
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and determined cultural life
is our springboard.
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After soaking with the locals
in a thermal pool
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and enjoying an Icelandic feast,
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we do the famous Golden Circle
day trip.
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We'll see the gorge where
Europe meets America,
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thrill under
the original "geyser,"
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and feel the spray of
a thundering waterfall.
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Then we hit the road--
the Ring Road--
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and circle the entire island.
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With help from Cameron Hewitt,
my friend and fellow
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guidebook author,
we'll do it all:
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exploring waterfalls,
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hiking through steaming
geothermal fields,
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cruising lagoons bobbing
with icebergs,
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fording glacial rivers,
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gathering eggs local style...
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and wandering evocative
black-sand beaches.
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We'll chase rainbows,
elusive whales,
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roaming horses,
and the cutest puffins.
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Iceland, about the size
of Virginia with just
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400,000 people, sits between
Greenland and Norway.
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From Reykjavík, after
the Golden Circle day trip,
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we hit the Ring Road.
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We explore the South Coast,
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side-tripping up
Thorsmork valley
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and sailing
to the Westman Islands.
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After Vík, we see
glacial lagoons,
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the rugged Eastfjords,
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geothermal hot zones
around Lake Myvatn,
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the fishing village of
Húsavík in the far north,
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and Snaefellsnes Peninsula
before finishing
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back where we started.
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♪
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Reykjavík, by far the biggest
city in the country,
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is still small--it's about
the size of Berkeley, or Fargo.
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With a hard-scrabble heritage
and a vibrant culture,
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today it offers a tourist-
friendly mix of old and new.
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Rick, voice-over: While
short on world-class sights,
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Reykjavík certainly has
an urban vitality,
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with plenty of restaurants
and shopping
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to keep visitors entertained.
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It's unexpectedly cosmopolitan,
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with an artistic,
bohemian flair.
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And it's blustery.
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Iceland can be cold
even in summer.
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This is a typical day
in July...and so is this.
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If you don't like the weather,
just wait a few minutes.
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♪
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Reykjavík's neighborhoods
are enlivened by street art.
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A blank wall will just get
tagged with graffiti anyway,
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so, instead, homeowners hire
talented street artists
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to create colorful murals.
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♪
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It seems every street
leads to Hallgríms Church,
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crowning a hill
in the town center.
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♪
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Designed by Iceland's state
architect in the 1930s,
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the church represents
the national style.
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Stark and utilitarian,
yet beautiful,
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it evokes the island's
volcanic landscape.
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Stairstepped gables echo
Iceland's basalt cliffs.
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♪
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The interior is Lutheran--
serene and austere.
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The glass is clear,
not stained...
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and the altar
is a simple table.
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♪
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An elevator whisks visitors
to the top of the tower
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for panoramic views
over all of Reykjavík.
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♪
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Two out of every 3 Icelanders
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lives within sight
of this steeple.
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♪
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In front of the church stands
a statue of Leif Erikson.
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Born here in Iceland,
this Viking explorer
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is believed to be the first
European to set foot
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in the Americas--
about 5 centuries
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before Christopher Columbus.
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♪
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The modern sculpture called
"The Sea Voyager"
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is an homage to those
Scandinavian adventurers
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who, beginning in
the ninth century,
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loaded up their ships, set sail
into an uncharted ocean,
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and brought civilization
to this uninhabited island.
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♪
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Iceland, so harsh and desolate,
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steaming with volcanoes,
was settled
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over 1,000 years ago
by early Norse farmers.
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♪
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Imagine the original
Icelanders--
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hardy folk eking out a living
on remote farms,
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living in isolation.
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They chronicled their lives
in "the Sagas"--
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a blending of
historical records,
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tall tales, and legends.
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♪
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From the age of the Vikings,
the country grew slowly.
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By the mid-1700s,
all of Iceland still only had
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about 50,000 people, and
Reykjavík was just a big farm.
06:21.233 --> 06:23.700 align:start position:37.5% line:79.33% size:22.5%
As trade,
mostly fishing, increased,
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and towns began to form,
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Reykjavík emerged
as the capital city.
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Rick, voice-over: The National
Museum collects artifacts
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from these early days
of Iceland.
06:33.766 --> 06:36.900 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
A society made of wood
doesn't leave much behind.
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♪
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But a few exquisite items,
like these ornamental horns,
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and these whalebone
carvings, survive.
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♪
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Pagan Iceland
converted to Christianity
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in about the year 1000.
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Until relatively modern times,
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Icelandic settlers
lived in rustic cottages.
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Existence may have been bleak,
but families were tight-knit.
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Many Icelanders lived
simple lives, much like this,
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until the early 20th century.
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♪
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Life was tied to the sea.
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Icelanders sailed in
open boats, fished for cod,
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and hunted shark for
their valuable liver oil.
07:26.600 --> 07:28.400 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
07:28.466 --> 07:31.600 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
More and more, symbols like
an official national costume
07:31.666 --> 07:34.500 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
and its own flag
demonstrated a growing sense
07:34.566 --> 07:36.366 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
of national identity.
07:37.800 --> 07:41.166 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:80%
Iceland remained part of Denmark
through the 1800s.
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Iceland-born politician
Jón Sigurdsson
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lobbied in Copenhagen
for independence,
07:48.000 --> 07:51.066 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
which Denmark finally granted
in 1918.
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♪
07:54.100 --> 07:58.100 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Iceland's parliament, called
the Althing, may seem humble.
07:58.166 --> 08:01.400 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
But it represents a thousand-
year journey in this society
08:01.466 --> 08:03.833 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
from rustic farmsteads
to today's
08:03.900 --> 08:05.733 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
modern, democratic nation.
08:05.800 --> 08:09.333 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
08:09.400 --> 08:11.266 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Rick, voice-over: For locals,
Parliament Square
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remains a place to
make your voice heard...
08:15.166 --> 08:16.833 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:50%
or to just hang out.
08:16.900 --> 08:20.866 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
08:20.933 --> 08:23.766 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
Reykjavík still has
a hardworking harbor,
08:23.833 --> 08:28.433 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
busy with both industrial
vessels and sightseeing boats.
08:29.766 --> 08:32.233 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:30%
And, in just
the last generation,
08:32.300 --> 08:36.633 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
boldly modern condos and office
towers show how today's Iceland
08:36.700 --> 08:38.733 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
is charging into the future.
08:38.800 --> 08:40.866 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
08:40.933 --> 08:44.600 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
And a fine example of that is
the super-modern concert hall,
08:44.666 --> 08:45.766 align:start position:32.5% line:84.66% size:32.5%
called Harpa.
08:45.833 --> 08:47.933 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
08:48.000 --> 08:50.566 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
In the lobby, the sky reflects
like you're inside
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a giant honeycombed prism.
08:52.400 --> 08:54.266 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
08:54.333 --> 08:57.433 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
This extravagant use
of space and glass
08:57.500 --> 08:59.666 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
put Iceland on the world's
architectural map
08:59.733 --> 09:01.500 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
when it opened in 2011.
09:02.600 --> 09:06.166 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Welcoming the public, a hit
with locals and tourists,
09:06.233 --> 09:09.166 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
and busy with
conferences and concerts,
09:09.233 --> 09:11.166 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Harpa is the hub
of the country's
09:11.233 --> 09:13.500 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
cultural and community activity.
09:13.566 --> 09:17.300 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
09:17.366 --> 09:19.933 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
This island is proud of
its homegrown artists,
09:20.000 --> 09:22.533 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
especially the sculptor
Einar Jónsson,
09:22.600 --> 09:26.400 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
who in the early 1900s
was inspired by Rodin.
09:26.466 --> 09:28.433 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
09:28.500 --> 09:29.966 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
A welcoming sculpture garden
09:30.033 --> 09:32.600 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
is filled with his bronze works.
09:34.166 --> 09:36.333 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
Inside the Einar Jónsson museum
09:36.400 --> 09:39.066 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
are the plaster originals.
09:39.133 --> 09:42.200 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
Jónsson's works
are intense and emotive.
09:43.233 --> 09:45.000 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
You'll see Viking warriors...
09:46.766 --> 09:48.400 align:start position:27.5% line:84.66% size:42.5%
bold explorers...
09:50.266 --> 09:51.633 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:47.5%
protective women...
09:52.833 --> 09:55.266 align:start position:27.5% line:84.66% size:45%
and lots of drama.
09:55.333 --> 09:58.600 align:start position:37.5% line:79.33% size:25%
He blended
elements of Christianity,
09:58.666 --> 10:02.700 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Old Norse legend,
Greek mythology,
10:02.766 --> 10:04.966 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
and his own belief
that every person
10:05.033 --> 10:07.333 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
contains at least
a kernel of goodness.
10:08.600 --> 10:11.233 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
A visit here reminds us that
even small countries
10:11.300 --> 10:13.900 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
produce talented artists,
like Jonsson,
10:13.966 --> 10:15.266 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
worth getting to know.
10:17.400 --> 10:19.733 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
For a peek at the city's
everyday charms
10:19.800 --> 10:21.666 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
and more insight
into the culture,
10:21.733 --> 10:25.100 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
I'm joined by local tour guide
Saga Fridriksdottir,
10:25.166 --> 10:28.766 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
a Reykjavík native who loves
showing off her hometown.
10:29.966 --> 10:33.466 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Saga, I love Iceland, but this
language is impossible for me.
10:33.533 --> 10:36.100 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
I mean, how can
any tourist remember that?
10:36.166 --> 10:39.366 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Saga: Oh. Well, I mean
Skolavordustigur.
10:39.433 --> 10:40.700 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
Rick: Skolavordustigur.
10:40.766 --> 10:42.033 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Saga: Yeah, it's pretty hard,
but you know,
10:42.100 --> 10:43.666 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
we all speak English as well.
10:43.733 --> 10:44.766 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
Rick: Thank goodness.
10:46.100 --> 10:47.600 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
This street makes me happy.
10:47.666 --> 10:49.233 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Saga: Very happy.
Very colorful.
10:49.300 --> 10:50.900 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
Dedicated to gay pride.
10:50.966 --> 10:53.633 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
But also a reminder
that Iceland is much for,
10:53.700 --> 10:57.466 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
just equality and human rights.
10:57.533 --> 10:59.566 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
And this is always
Rainbow Street.
10:59.633 --> 11:01.366 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:27.5%
Rick: Nice.
Saga: Yes.
11:01.433 --> 11:02.966 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Rick: So, in the summer,
days are very long,
11:03.033 --> 11:05.300 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
but in the winter...what is
it like in the winter?
11:05.366 --> 11:08.933 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Saga: Well, cold
and very, very dark.
11:09.000 --> 11:12.833 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
But we have these beautiful,
colorful houses
11:12.900 --> 11:14.866 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
that really characterizes
Reykjavík.
11:14.933 --> 11:17.333 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
They brighten up
our days in winter.
11:17.400 --> 11:20.433 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
And also, you notice we have
a lot of corrugated iron
11:20.500 --> 11:24.233 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:80%
that clothe these wooden houses,
which was a revolutionary
11:24.300 --> 11:27.500 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
material because
it protected the houses
11:27.566 --> 11:30.000 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
from this crazy
Icelandic weather.
11:30.066 --> 11:33.233 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Rick: I'm sure historically,
this is a society
11:33.300 --> 11:35.200 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
that has dealt with hardships.
11:35.266 --> 11:36.933 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Saga: Oh, yeah, for sure.
Definitely.
11:37.000 --> 11:39.866 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
But we have a strong mentality
and there's actually
11:39.933 --> 11:43.300 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
a saying in Iceland:
Thetta reddast.
11:43.366 --> 11:45.933 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
Rick: Thetta reddast.
Saga: Thetta reddast.
11:46.000 --> 11:48.266 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
And it basically just means,
"It's going to be fine.
11:48.333 --> 11:51.333 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
Don't worry about it.
It's gonna work out."
11:51.400 --> 11:53.900 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Rick, voice-over: On weekends,
the downtown flea market
11:53.966 --> 11:57.666 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
is a characteristic
and mostly local shopping scene.
11:57.733 --> 11:59.233 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
This is really a fun place.
11:59.300 --> 12:02.266 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:80%
Rick, voice-over: And don't miss
those famous Icelandic sweaters.
12:02.333 --> 12:04.700 align:start position:42.5% line:79.33% size:12.5%
Rick:
I don't do a lot of shopping,
12:04.766 --> 12:07.966 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
but when it comes to the Nordic
countries, I like a sweater.
12:09.500 --> 12:10.800 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
Oh, that's beautiful.
So, Saga,
12:10.866 --> 12:12.800 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:27.5%
this really
feels like good wool.
12:12.866 --> 12:14.400 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
Saga: I mean,
we consider it to be
12:14.466 --> 12:15.600 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
the best wool in the world.
12:15.666 --> 12:17.933 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Rick: This is like
Icelandic sheep.
12:18.000 --> 12:19.833 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Saga: Proper Icelandic
sheep wool, yes.
12:19.900 --> 12:20.866 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
Rick: And what--is it special?
12:20.933 --> 12:22.533 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Because it feels
a little special.
12:22.600 --> 12:25.033 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Saga: Well, I guess because
they've been roaming freely
12:25.100 --> 12:27.233 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
in Iceland since 874.
12:27.300 --> 12:30.233 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
They know how to deal with
rough Icelandic weather,
12:30.300 --> 12:33.000 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
and they give us
the perfect clothing for that.
12:34.666 --> 12:36.666 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
Rick: Oh, yeah.
Do you think it's good?
12:36.733 --> 12:38.733 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:27.5%
Woman: Yes.
Saga: It's very good.
12:38.800 --> 12:41.066 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Rick: I like it because
it feels it has history.
12:41.133 --> 12:43.600 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Woman: It's warm and good.
You see you.
12:43.666 --> 12:46.166 align:start position:37.5% line:79.33% size:25%
Saga: Wow.
Rick: Oh, look at that. Yeah.
12:47.133 --> 12:48.500 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
Saga: You look like a local.
12:48.566 --> 12:51.133 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Rick: I feel like a local.
I can speak Icelandic.
12:51.200 --> 12:53.000 align:start position:37.5% line:79.33% size:25%
Saga: Yes.
[Rick laughs]
12:53.066 --> 12:54.966 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Rick, voice-over: The flea
market is also a place
12:55.033 --> 12:58.233 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
you can sample
some unique tastes.
12:58.300 --> 13:01.500 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
As the early Icelanders
settled this untamed island,
13:01.566 --> 13:04.666 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
they resorted to many
"hardship foods."
13:04.733 --> 13:05.966 align:start position:37.5% line:79.33% size:22.5%
Rick: So,
when we come to Iceland,
13:06.033 --> 13:07.766 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
everybody has to try the shark.
13:07.833 --> 13:09.700 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Saga: They have to
try the shark. Definitely.
13:09.766 --> 13:13.233 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
I mean, this is the famous
Greenland shark.
13:13.300 --> 13:14.833 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
Rick: This is shark.
Fermented shark.
13:14.900 --> 13:18.033 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Saga: Fermented shark. Yeah.
Because if you would
13:18.100 --> 13:20.200 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
eat the shark straight away,
you know, when it's fresh,
13:20.266 --> 13:21.566 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
you would die, unfortunately.
13:21.633 --> 13:23.800 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
Rick: You would die?
Saga: Yes, it is toxic.
13:23.866 --> 13:25.433 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Rick: So, how did
you ferment this?
13:25.500 --> 13:26.900 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
Saga: So, you chop it in pieces,
13:26.966 --> 13:28.266 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
you bury it in the ground
for some time,
13:28.333 --> 13:29.966 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
and then hang it up,
and you get rid of
13:30.033 --> 13:31.700 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
the, the ammonia, or, like,
13:31.766 --> 13:34.166 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
the urine, basically,
which is the toxins.
13:34.233 --> 13:36.766 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
And I always think, like,
how many tries did it take
13:36.833 --> 13:39.966 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
to figure out
this method of, like,
13:40.033 --> 13:42.300 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
not getting killed
by eating the shark?
13:42.366 --> 13:43.700 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
Rick: That just
stokes my appetite.
13:43.766 --> 13:45.033 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
Is it possible to try some?
13:45.100 --> 13:47.466 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Saga: You have to try it.
There's some pieces here.
13:47.533 --> 13:50.733 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Rick: Good. I'm gonna put
this piece of shark down.
13:50.800 --> 13:54.300 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Saga: And this is usually how
it comes, like in small pieces.
13:54.366 --> 13:55.966 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
So, you're more than welcome
to have a piece
13:56.033 --> 13:57.933 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
or two if you fancy it.
13:59.966 --> 14:01.400 align:start position:32.5% line:84.66% size:32.5%
[Rick laughs]
14:01.466 --> 14:02.500 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
Saga: Give it a good chew.
14:04.066 --> 14:05.200 align:start position:37.5% line:84.66% size:25%
Rick: Wow.
14:05.266 --> 14:07.566 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Now, that is very
fishy right now.
14:07.633 --> 14:10.000 align:start position:37.5% line:79.33% size:25%
Saga: Yes.
Wait for the aftertaste.
14:10.066 --> 14:11.333 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:60%
Rick: Yeah. My goodness.
14:11.400 --> 14:12.666 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
Now it's like it just got
14:12.733 --> 14:15.433 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
swept over with--with ammonia.
14:15.500 --> 14:16.666 align:start position:35% line:84.66% size:30%
Saga: Right.
14:16.733 --> 14:18.266 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
And usually you're
supposed to drink it
14:18.333 --> 14:21.633 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
with the Black Death schnapps.
Brandy wine.
14:21.700 --> 14:23.566 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Rick: Some fire water.
Saga: Yes, please have some.
14:23.633 --> 14:26.066 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
Rick: Oh, baby,
that is...unforgettable.
14:26.133 --> 14:27.366 align:start position:35% line:84.66% size:27.5%
Saga: Yeah.
14:27.433 --> 14:29.766 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
But now you tried
the famous Icelandic shark.
14:29.833 --> 14:32.266 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Rick: The aftertaste...
I just feel like I've
14:32.333 --> 14:34.300 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
been in a gas station
or something.
14:34.366 --> 14:37.200 align:start position:27.5% line:84.66% size:42.5%
All: 1, 2, 3, go!
14:44.233 --> 14:47.466 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Iceland is a volcanic island.
it's formed at the rift
14:47.533 --> 14:49.000 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
where the European
and North American
14:49.066 --> 14:51.100 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
tectonic plates
are pulling apart.
14:51.166 --> 14:54.233 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
That's why there's a chain of
active volcanoes, hot springs,
14:54.300 --> 14:55.900 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
and steam vents like this
14:55.966 --> 14:58.533 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
cutting right through
the center of the country.
14:58.600 --> 14:59.933 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Rick, voice-over:
Visitors come to Iceland
15:00.000 --> 15:02.333 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
hoping to see
a volcanic eruption.
15:02.400 --> 15:04.433 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
But big, dramatic eruptions,
15:04.500 --> 15:06.033 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
that casual visitors
can actually
15:06.100 --> 15:08.933 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
get up close to and see,
are very rare.
15:09.000 --> 15:13.800 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
15:13.866 --> 15:16.033 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
But exploring this island
does come with
15:16.100 --> 15:18.700 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
plenty of steamy serendipity.
15:18.766 --> 15:21.600 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Like roadside attractions,
bubbling mud holes
15:21.666 --> 15:23.533 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:60%
gurgle with molten muck.
15:25.566 --> 15:31.300 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Vents spew steam, and as the
fog clears from your glasses,
15:31.366 --> 15:34.066 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
suddenly you're
interested in geology!
15:35.566 --> 15:39.433 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
The entire island is shaped
by lava from past eruptions.
15:39.500 --> 15:42.933 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Dark, chunky lava rock
blanketed by cushy moss
15:43.000 --> 15:46.266 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
covers much of Iceland's
surface, giving the countryside
15:46.333 --> 15:48.800 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
a desolate, almost lunar feel.
15:48.866 --> 15:52.333 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
15:52.400 --> 15:54.800 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
And the Icelanders have
ingeniously harnessed
15:54.866 --> 15:57.133 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
their endless supply
of green energy.
15:58.700 --> 16:00.766 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Geothermal plants,
in the middle of nowhere,
16:00.833 --> 16:03.933 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
are hard at work, boring
deep into the earth's crust
16:04.000 --> 16:06.200 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
to tap into hot water.
16:06.266 --> 16:09.233 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
And pipelines carry that
super-heated water
16:09.300 --> 16:12.100 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
through miles of countryside
to heat and power
16:12.166 --> 16:14.666 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
Reykjavík and other communities.
16:14.733 --> 16:17.166 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
16:18.500 --> 16:21.300 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Despite the chill,
houses are toasty.
16:21.366 --> 16:25.133 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
In fact, you'll notice many
small windows propped open.
16:25.200 --> 16:27.733 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Because that geothermal heat
is so cheap,
16:27.800 --> 16:30.666 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
people don't even bother
turning down the radiator.
16:30.733 --> 16:32.400 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
They just crack the window.
16:32.466 --> 16:34.366 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
16:34.433 --> 16:37.066 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
The most enjoyable use
for Iceland's hot water
16:37.133 --> 16:39.900 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
is its thermal pools.
16:39.966 --> 16:44.366 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
And the most famous spa is
45 minutes outside Reykjavík:
16:44.433 --> 16:46.566 align:start position:30% line:84.66% size:40%
The Blue Lagoon.
16:46.633 --> 16:49.733 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Years ago, a geothermal
plant began dumping its
16:49.800 --> 16:53.800 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
hot, mineral-rich waste water
into this lava landscape.
16:53.866 --> 16:56.833 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Locals discovered it was
a great place to take a dip.
16:56.900 --> 17:00.866 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Developers then transformed it
into a high-end spa.
17:00.933 --> 17:03.433 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Today, Iceland's
top tourist attraction
17:03.500 --> 17:04.933 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
is close to the airport
17:05.000 --> 17:08.633 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
and a popular first or last
stop for visitors.
17:09.700 --> 17:12.133 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
The Blue Lagoon is a lavish spa,
17:12.200 --> 17:14.033 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
but it's extremely touristy
17:14.100 --> 17:17.266 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
and you sure won't meet
many Icelanders here.
17:17.333 --> 17:20.366 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
But the good news: you have
plenty of alternatives
17:20.433 --> 17:24.100 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
that are just as relaxing--
the community thermal pools.
17:24.166 --> 17:29.333 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
17:30.800 --> 17:32.733 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
The Blue Lagoon is popular.
17:32.800 --> 17:35.600 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
But it's expensive---
about 10 times the cost
17:35.666 --> 17:37.000 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:50%
of a pool like this.
17:37.066 --> 17:39.333 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
You can luxuriate
in the Blue Lagoon
17:39.400 --> 17:44.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
or you can soak with the locals
in a neighborhood pool.
17:44.533 --> 17:48.366 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
The choice is yours.
Today, I'm soakin' local.
17:49.700 --> 17:51.733 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Rick, voice-over:
Fed by natural thermal springs,
17:51.800 --> 17:54.600 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
the main pool is bathwater-warm.
17:54.666 --> 17:57.433 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Waterslides, cascades,
and kids' zones
17:57.500 --> 18:00.066 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:60%
keep locals entertained.
18:00.133 --> 18:03.100 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
This is where Icelanders
meet up after work
18:03.166 --> 18:05.233 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
to connect with
friends and family.
18:05.300 --> 18:09.600 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
I can't think of a better way
to meet the locals.
18:09.666 --> 18:12.100 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
And for the ultimate
in relaxation,
18:12.166 --> 18:15.333 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
hundred-degree hot pots
simmer nearby.
18:15.400 --> 18:18.233 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
Soaking together is
a great equalizer.
18:18.300 --> 18:21.133 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Student, truck driver,
doctor, and tourist--
18:21.200 --> 18:23.566 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
everybody's equal in the pool.
18:23.633 --> 18:30.833 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
18:33.300 --> 18:35.700 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
Iceland is all about
the great outdoors.
18:35.766 --> 18:38.100 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
But if the weather's bad,
as it often is,
18:38.166 --> 18:40.033 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
several indoor sights
here in Reykjavík
18:40.100 --> 18:42.300 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
offer a taste of
the majesty of Iceland
18:42.366 --> 18:44.666 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
without leaving
the capital city.
18:44.733 --> 18:47.066 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Rick, voice-over: At the edge
of town is a one-stop way
18:47.133 --> 18:49.933 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
to experience this country's
top natural wonders,
18:50.000 --> 18:54.200 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
at least virtually,
under one roof--The Pearl.
18:54.266 --> 18:57.133 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Exhibits feature
fiery volcanoes,
18:57.200 --> 19:01.300 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
with majestic footage
that gives a sense of awe,
19:01.366 --> 19:05.233 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
birds perched precariously
on towering cliffs,
19:05.300 --> 19:08.566 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
and a 300-foot-long ice cave.
19:09.900 --> 19:12.533 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
It's a primer
on Icelandic nature,
19:12.600 --> 19:15.933 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
especially worthwhile for those
without the time or money
19:16.000 --> 19:17.366 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
to see the real thing.
19:18.733 --> 19:23.333 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
The most elusive natural
thrill is the Aurora Borealis.
19:23.400 --> 19:26.700 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
In summer, when it's too light
to see these Northern Lights,
19:26.766 --> 19:28.566 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
you can step into
the planetarium
19:28.633 --> 19:31.700 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
to get a sense of this
fabled phenomenon.
19:31.766 --> 19:33.266 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
But of course,
there's nothing like
19:33.333 --> 19:35.766 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
experiencing the real thing.
19:35.833 --> 19:37.766 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Remember, even if
you come in the winter
19:37.833 --> 19:39.333 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
solely for the Northern Lights,
19:39.400 --> 19:41.833 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
there's no guarantees
of seeing them.
19:41.900 --> 19:44.533 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
But if you do see
those ethereal lights
19:44.600 --> 19:47.166 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
dancing in the sky,
the experience
19:47.233 --> 19:50.333 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
will stay with you
for the rest of your days.
19:50.400 --> 19:52.800 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
19:54.933 --> 19:57.233 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
The weather's great,
and from Reykjavík,
19:57.300 --> 20:01.100 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
we're making the classic
150-mile day-trip loop:
20:01.166 --> 20:03.333 align:start position:27.5% line:84.66% size:45%
the Golden Circle.
20:03.400 --> 20:05.633 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Within minutes, we're immersed
in Iceland's iconic
20:05.700 --> 20:08.533 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
wide-open spaces and enjoying
the dramatic scenery
20:08.600 --> 20:10.500 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
of this island's
natural wonders.
20:12.366 --> 20:15.333 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Today, we'll see gorges,
waterfalls, geysers,
20:15.400 --> 20:19.033 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
and more, with epic views
all along the way.
20:19.100 --> 20:20.766 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
By the way, most people do this
20:20.833 --> 20:23.133 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
as a day-trip on a tour bus.
20:23.200 --> 20:24.233 align:start position:27.5% line:84.66% size:45%
But we're driving.
20:25.266 --> 20:27.700 align:start position:27.5% line:10% size:42.5%
Rick, voice-over:
Our first stop is Thingvellir.
20:29.033 --> 20:31.533 align:start position:22.5% line:10% size:52.5%
This national park is
important to Icelanders
20:31.600 --> 20:33.566 align:start position:30% line:10% size:40%
for two reasons.
20:33.633 --> 20:36.800 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
First, at this gorge,
you can see the rift
20:36.866 --> 20:40.500 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
that marks that slow
separation of tectonic plates.
20:40.566 --> 20:43.166 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Walking along this fissure
in the earth's crust,
20:43.233 --> 20:46.500 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
travelers sense this meeting
of two continents:
20:46.566 --> 20:50.233 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
America on the left,
Europe on the right.
20:50.300 --> 20:54.566 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
And second, Thingvellir,
which means "Assembly Plains,"
20:54.633 --> 20:57.333 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
was the site of
the original Althing,
20:57.400 --> 21:00.200 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
an annual gathering
of early settlers.
21:03.266 --> 21:05.966 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
This is where the nation
of Iceland was born.
21:06.033 --> 21:09.266 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
1,000 years ago,
chieftains from isolated farms
21:09.333 --> 21:11.966 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
all over the island
traveled great distances
21:12.033 --> 21:16.133 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
to meet right here every summer
and make important decisions.
21:16.200 --> 21:18.533 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
In an age when almost
no one could read or write,
21:18.600 --> 21:21.466 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
each meeting began by reciting
the memorized highlights
21:21.533 --> 21:24.033 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
from last year's gathering.
21:24.100 --> 21:25.800 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Rick, voice-over:
History aside, Thingvellir
21:25.866 --> 21:28.066 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
is inviting for a nature walk.
21:28.133 --> 21:31.366 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
In this evocative spot,
waterfalls tumble
21:31.433 --> 21:35.633 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
and the river flows as geology
does its slow-motion dance.
21:35.700 --> 21:39.100 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
21:39.166 --> 21:41.666 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Just up the road
is a geological site
21:41.733 --> 21:43.766 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
actually called Geysir.
21:44.833 --> 21:48.100 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
This geothermal field--
colorful and steamy
21:48.166 --> 21:52.166 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
with scalding water--is home
to the original geyser,
21:52.233 --> 21:54.500 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
which means "gusher"
in Icelandic.
21:55.833 --> 21:59.633 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
The site is otherworldly
as pools bubble
21:59.700 --> 22:01.466 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:60%
and steam fills the air,
22:01.533 --> 22:03.966 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
all with a whiff of sulfur.
22:04.033 --> 22:06.833 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
But the big show is
the central geyser.
22:06.900 --> 22:09.333 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
22:09.400 --> 22:15.366 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Tourists line up, cameras
poised with anticip--ation...
22:15.433 --> 22:17.333 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
ready to capture the moment.
22:17.400 --> 22:21.233 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:30%
They wait...
and wait...and wait.
22:21.300 --> 22:25.833 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Sometimes they wait so long,
the weather actually improves.
22:25.900 --> 22:28.800 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
And then, suddenly,
with a gurgling belch
22:28.866 --> 22:34.200 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
the geyser explodes...rocketing
skyward and thrilling the crowd.
22:34.266 --> 22:36.166 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:50%
[Indistinct chatter]
22:36.233 --> 22:40.733 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
22:40.800 --> 22:42.733 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
As you drive the Golden Circle,
22:42.800 --> 22:45.566 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
remember to slow down
and enjoy the scenery.
22:46.933 --> 22:50.566 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
And it's not just about
the famous natural sights.
22:50.633 --> 22:52.833 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
Along the way,
you'll see slices of
22:52.900 --> 22:55.133 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
Iceland's unique agriculture.
22:55.200 --> 22:57.200 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
22:57.266 --> 22:59.066 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
With its efficient greenhouses,
22:59.133 --> 23:01.133 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
even with the lack
of good topsoil
23:01.200 --> 23:02.666 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
and its difficult weather,
23:02.733 --> 23:05.500 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Iceland grows plenty of
tasty vegetables.
23:07.066 --> 23:09.533 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
The climate is harsh
for conventional farming.
23:09.600 --> 23:12.433 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
But its expertise in
greenhouse technology
23:12.500 --> 23:15.566 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
and in putting geothermal
energy to good use
23:15.633 --> 23:17.666 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
yields an abundant harvest.
23:17.733 --> 23:23.200 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
23:23.266 --> 23:26.433 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
For lunch, we're stopping
at a working farm.
23:26.500 --> 23:28.600 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
It's clear that
frugal farmers here
23:28.666 --> 23:31.266 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
are tapping into
the tourist boom.
23:31.333 --> 23:34.766 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
This family now serves
hungry sightseers.
23:34.833 --> 23:38.466 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
The soup bar is
a budget standby:
23:38.533 --> 23:41.866 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
it's all you can slurp,
with fresh-baked bread
23:41.933 --> 23:44.666 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
and a glass of water
and a cup of coffee.
23:45.800 --> 23:48.200 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
You can finish with
a farm-fresh dessert
23:48.266 --> 23:53.066 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
with a special twist: the cows
actually watch the diners
23:53.133 --> 23:56.800 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
enjoying ice cream made
from their very own milk.
23:56.866 --> 23:59.000 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
23:59.066 --> 24:02.533 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
For generations, this family
has raised horses.
24:02.600 --> 24:04.800 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Horse lovers know that
Iceland's local breed
24:04.866 --> 24:06.200 align:start position:35% line:84.66% size:27.5%
is special.
24:06.266 --> 24:09.066 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Small and sturdy, these were
first brought over
24:09.133 --> 24:12.733 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
by Vikings in the Settlement
Age, 1,000 years ago,
24:12.800 --> 24:16.000 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
chosen because they could fit
inside the hold of a ship,
24:16.066 --> 24:20.100 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
yet they were strong enough
to work hard once they arrived.
24:20.166 --> 24:23.600 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Throughout the country, you'll
see these wind-blown beauties.
24:23.666 --> 24:26.233 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
A long-established ban on
importing other breeds
24:26.300 --> 24:30.466 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
means that today's Icelandic
horses are purebred and unique.
24:30.533 --> 24:32.966 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
24:33.033 --> 24:37.166 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
They also have a distinctive
gait that thrills equestrians.
24:37.233 --> 24:49.666 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
24:49.733 --> 24:52.633 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
The final stop on our
Golden Circle loop
24:52.700 --> 24:55.100 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
is one of the most
impressive waterfalls
24:55.166 --> 24:57.666 align:start position:35% line:10% size:30%
in a country
famed for waterfalls:
24:57.733 --> 25:01.333 align:start position:15% line:10% size:67.5%
Gullfoss--the Golden Falls.
25:01.400 --> 25:05.333 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
The churning glacial river
plummets into a narrow gorge.
25:06.700 --> 25:10.733 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Up close, the cauldron
comes with a deafening roar.
25:10.800 --> 25:12.466 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
And even from high above,
25:12.533 --> 25:15.266 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
visitors feel
the spray, wonderstruck.
25:16.566 --> 25:19.300 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Gullfoss is just one of
many waterfalls
25:19.366 --> 25:21.333 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
Iceland has to offer.
25:21.400 --> 25:25.066 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
But if you only have time
to see one, this is it.
25:25.133 --> 25:29.333 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
It's rare anywhere on earth to
find such a dramatic display
25:29.400 --> 25:31.366 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
of water and gravity.
25:31.433 --> 25:36.066 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
25:37.666 --> 25:41.466 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Gullfoss is one of those
places Iceland specializes in,
25:41.533 --> 25:43.866 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
where you feel
the raw power of nature.
25:43.933 --> 25:47.666 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
It's the perfect climax
to a Golden Circle day.
25:47.733 --> 25:49.933 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
Rick, voice-over: And the final
leg of the Golden Circle
25:50.000 --> 25:53.100 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
takes us across a vast
volcanic plateau.
25:53.166 --> 25:55.600 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
From this lonely lunar
landscape, we're just
25:55.666 --> 25:58.200 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
30 minutes from
downtown Reykjavík,
25:58.266 --> 26:01.500 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
and, as it happens,
it's time for dinner.
26:01.566 --> 26:04.300 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
Eating in Iceland is expensive.
26:04.366 --> 26:06.700 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Thankfully, you've got
a range of options,
26:06.766 --> 26:11.533 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
from fish and chips
to fine French cuisine.
26:11.600 --> 26:14.600 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:80%
If you're willing to pay for it,
you can eat really well.
26:14.666 --> 26:17.500 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
And tonight, we're
enjoying a splurge.
26:17.566 --> 26:19.100 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Rick, voice-over: This trendy
restaurant features
26:19.166 --> 26:22.766 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
traditional local ingredients
but with a modern twist.
26:22.833 --> 26:24.533 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
You'll find the staples
you'd expect,
26:24.600 --> 26:26.433 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:47.5%
like lamb and fish.
26:26.500 --> 26:28.733 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
26:28.800 --> 26:31.033 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
While the perpetual flames of
the kitchen kick out
26:31.100 --> 26:32.800 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
plenty of meat for carnivores,
26:32.866 --> 26:35.433 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
it always has
a vegetarian option.
26:36.666 --> 26:38.833 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
I'm dining with my
travel buddy and fellow
26:38.900 --> 26:40.600 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
guidebook author Cameron Hewitt,
26:40.666 --> 26:42.966 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
and we're starting our meal
with Arctic char
26:43.033 --> 26:47.166 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
and langoustine lava rocks,
served on a lava rock.
26:47.233 --> 26:48.866 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Cameron: So, the inside is
langoustine, which are
26:48.933 --> 26:51.733 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
kind of like little super--
super-sized shrimp.
26:51.800 --> 26:53.933 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Rick: It's like it's tempura,
but they...
26:54.000 --> 26:56.833 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Cameron: They made it look
like lava rocks on lava rock.
27:00.366 --> 27:02.033 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
Rick: Actually cooked
in a lava flow.
27:02.100 --> 27:04.166 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Cameron: Yeah. [Laughs]
Rick: That's good.
27:04.233 --> 27:06.933 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Cameron: Arctic char, which is
kind of like--tastes like
27:07.000 --> 27:08.400 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
salmon, sort of pink fish.
27:08.466 --> 27:11.433 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Has mustard seed
and dill on top.
27:11.500 --> 27:13.800 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Rick, voice-over: If this
seems fancy, it is.
27:13.866 --> 27:16.733 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Iceland, while expensive,
is a place to invest
27:16.800 --> 27:18.366 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:50%
in a memorable meal.
27:18.433 --> 27:20.133 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Rick: It's going to cost you
a fair amount anyway.
27:20.200 --> 27:22.333 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
So, you go just a little
bit more, you can have this.
27:22.400 --> 27:23.333 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
Cameron: Yeah,
that's what I think.
27:23.400 --> 27:24.900 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
You save up and eat groceries
27:24.966 --> 27:26.833 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
for a few days and then
splurge for a meal like this.
27:26.900 --> 27:28.533 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Rick, voice-over: For our
main course, we're having
27:28.600 --> 27:29.933 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
some of those staples.
27:30.000 --> 27:31.666 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
Cameron's having the salted cod
27:31.733 --> 27:33.966 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
and I'm going for
the lamb chops,
27:34.033 --> 27:35.800 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
but with sauces and presentation
27:35.866 --> 27:37.966 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
the Vikings wouldn't recognize.
27:40.766 --> 27:41.700 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Rick: I think they know
many ways
27:41.766 --> 27:42.933 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
to do cod here, I would imagine.
27:43.000 --> 27:44.500 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
Cameron: Yeah, it's very good.
27:44.566 --> 27:46.866 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Rick, voice-over: To drink,
I prefer something domestic--
27:46.933 --> 27:50.033 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
and this island definitely
doesn't produce any wine.
27:50.100 --> 27:53.166 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
Instead, it's a local microbrew.
27:53.233 --> 27:56.266 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
Finally, it's
profiteroles for dessert.
27:56.333 --> 28:00.333 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
With this, that fermented
shark is a distant memory,
28:00.400 --> 28:03.566 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
and that is certainly
worth paying a premium for.
28:07.500 --> 28:09.633 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
From here in downtown
Reykjavík, we'll drive
28:09.700 --> 28:13.333 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
800 miles all the way around
Iceland's Ring Road.
28:13.400 --> 28:15.566 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
Which highway?
Highway 1, of course.
28:15.633 --> 28:17.466 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:47.5%
You can't get lost.
28:17.533 --> 28:20.800 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Rick, voice-over: On the first
leg is Iceland's South Coast.
28:20.866 --> 28:23.466 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Just two hours from Reykjavík
and we're already
28:23.533 --> 28:26.433 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
deep in the thrills,
chalking up the experiences
28:26.500 --> 28:28.433 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
people visiting here dream of.
28:30.200 --> 28:33.900 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Driving the entire Ring Road
takes about 30 hours non-stop.
28:33.966 --> 28:37.133 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
To do it justice, you need
at least 5 or 6 days.
28:37.200 --> 28:38.633 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
You can go in either direction--
28:38.700 --> 28:40.366 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
we're going counter-clockwise--
28:40.433 --> 28:43.600 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
and it's summertime, so,
it stays light really late.
28:44.766 --> 28:46.633 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Rick, voice-over:
Seljalandsfoss--one of Iceland's
28:46.700 --> 28:50.200 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
most accessible waterfalls--
is a favorite stop.
28:50.266 --> 28:52.500 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
The water tumbles
more than 200 feet
28:52.566 --> 28:56.400 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
from cliffs high above,
like a bridal veil.
28:56.466 --> 28:59.666 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
On sunny days, the scene is
like a party as everybody is
28:59.733 --> 29:03.166 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
suddenly waterfall crazy
and connoisseurs of rainbows.
29:03.233 --> 29:07.000 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
29:07.066 --> 29:09.100 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Late in the day,
with the setting sun,
29:09.166 --> 29:11.533 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
everyone's a photographer.
29:11.600 --> 29:14.866 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
A slippery trail leads up
behind the cascading water
29:14.933 --> 29:17.966 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
and back here,
the energy is palpable.
29:18.033 --> 29:20.600 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
And rain parkas
get a good workout.
29:20.666 --> 29:28.333 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
29:28.400 --> 29:31.300 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Here in Iceland, we experience
both the power of nature
29:31.366 --> 29:34.400 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
and the beauty of nature.
29:34.466 --> 29:36.733 align:start position:12.5% line:10% size:75%
Rick, voice-over: This country
is expert at monetizing
29:36.800 --> 29:40.866 align:start position:15% line:10% size:67.5%
its stunning nature--making
the great outdoors accessible.
29:40.933 --> 29:43.833 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Each morning, rugged vehicles
load up with tourists
29:43.900 --> 29:45.600 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
and head for the backcountry.
29:48.466 --> 29:50.333 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
We've hired one of
these enormous trucks
29:50.400 --> 29:54.833 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
with a driver, eager
for a thrilling experience.
29:54.900 --> 29:59.133 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
We're heading up a remote and
rocky valley called Thorsmork.
29:59.200 --> 30:01.166 align:start position:35% line:10% size:30%
Even in this
land of superlatives,
30:01.233 --> 30:04.166 align:start position:15% line:10% size:67.5%
Thorsmork is one-of-a-kind.
30:04.233 --> 30:07.200 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Venturing far beyond where
normal cars can tread,
30:07.266 --> 30:09.866 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
it's a land of super-vehicles.
30:09.933 --> 30:11.766 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
But it's still accessible.
30:11.833 --> 30:15.466 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
There's even a public bus
service up this remote valley.
30:15.533 --> 30:17.366 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
All must have tires that deflate
30:17.433 --> 30:19.933 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
with the push of a button
for extra traction.
30:21.566 --> 30:23.466 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
"Super-jeeps" and buses alike,
30:23.533 --> 30:25.633 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
equipped with these
monster tires,
30:25.700 --> 30:28.133 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
churn through rivers of
glacial melt,
30:28.200 --> 30:31.166 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
giving all on board
a tale to tell.
30:31.233 --> 30:34.066 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
30:34.133 --> 30:35.766 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:50%
People come to hike.
30:35.833 --> 30:38.433 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
Remote lodges
provide simple bases.
30:38.500 --> 30:41.300 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Up here, nature is
a great equalizer
30:41.366 --> 30:43.466 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
as everyone is psyching up...
30:43.533 --> 30:46.133 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
prepping to create
that lifetime memory.
30:47.333 --> 30:50.466 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
And hikers appreciate
the portable footbridges.
30:50.533 --> 30:53.566 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
They come with wheels to be
repositioned each season
30:53.633 --> 30:56.066 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
depending on where
the river flows.
30:57.566 --> 30:59.866 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Charging deeper and deeper
into the valley,
30:59.933 --> 31:02.633 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
I keep thinking the off-road
prowess of our vehicle
31:02.700 --> 31:04.566 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
would make for a great TV ad.
31:04.633 --> 31:09.366 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
31:09.433 --> 31:12.266 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Finally, after parking our
super-jeep, we actually
31:12.333 --> 31:14.233 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
work up a sweat
with a short hike.
31:15.700 --> 31:18.200 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
Feeling small in this
primeval setting,
31:18.266 --> 31:21.266 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
we're humbled at the majesty
of what surrounds us.
31:21.333 --> 31:23.633 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
31:23.700 --> 31:26.300 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
And glaciers, reaching down
from the mountains,
31:26.366 --> 31:29.700 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
remind us of Iceland's
snowcapped rooftop.
31:31.066 --> 31:34.600 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
The black on the ice is ash.
It's from volcanic eruptions.
31:34.666 --> 31:36.533 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
Could be fresh,
could be very old.
31:38.266 --> 31:40.366 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Rick, voice-over:
Nature is dynamic here.
31:40.433 --> 31:44.333 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
It's unpredictable.
It changes without asking.
31:44.400 --> 31:46.766 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
Savoring this moment,
it occurs to me,
31:46.833 --> 31:50.866 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
this is Europe, wilder than
I've ever experienced.
31:50.933 --> 32:00.266 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
32:00.333 --> 32:03.233 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Highway 1 laces together
a steady parade
32:03.300 --> 32:05.633 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
of side-tripping options.
32:05.700 --> 32:08.400 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Each detour comes with
a convenient lesson
32:08.466 --> 32:10.266 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
in the local history,
32:10.333 --> 32:12.866 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
and a schematic map
locating every farm,
32:12.933 --> 32:13.933 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
place to eat or sleep,
32:14.000 --> 32:14.933 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
and point of interest
32:15.000 --> 32:16.500 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
on that smaller road.
32:17.766 --> 32:20.033 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
Like any road trip,
doing the Ring Road
32:20.100 --> 32:22.900 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
requires multiple
one-night stays.
32:22.966 --> 32:25.466 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
There are plenty of
accommodation options.
32:25.533 --> 32:29.933 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
They range from big boxy
hotels to pre-fab cabins,
32:30.000 --> 32:35.000 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
tight little yurts,
remote hostels, and camping.
32:35.066 --> 32:37.866 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Many enjoy a camper van
or pitching a tent.
32:37.933 --> 32:39.900 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
Efficient and scenic
campgrounds help
32:39.966 --> 32:43.400 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:80%
budget travelers both save money
on hotels and meals
32:43.466 --> 32:46.200 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
and enjoy a wonderful circle
of new friends.
32:46.266 --> 32:52.033 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
32:52.100 --> 32:54.666 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
It's been a long day
of sightseeing for us.
32:54.733 --> 32:56.366 align:start position:27.5% line:84.66% size:45%
Time to settle in.
32:56.433 --> 32:58.933 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Like with so many farms,
this family is meeting
32:59.000 --> 33:03.933 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
the new demand, housing more
tourists and fewer animals.
33:04.000 --> 33:05.800 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:50%
The welcome is warm.
33:05.866 --> 33:07.200 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
Rick: I'm Rick Steves.
33:07.266 --> 33:08.766 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Man: Hello, Mr. Steves.
How are you today?
33:08.833 --> 33:10.900 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
Rick: I'm good.
It's nice to be here.
33:10.966 --> 33:13.833 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
Rick, voice-over: The rooms are
simple, but plenty comfortable.
33:13.900 --> 33:17.100 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
33:17.166 --> 33:21.233 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
And the views are...Icelandic.
33:21.300 --> 33:25.033 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
33:25.100 --> 33:27.400 align:start position:30% line:10% size:37.5%
A major stop on
the Iceland grand tour
33:27.466 --> 33:31.233 align:start position:20% line:10% size:57.5%
is the Westman Islands,
just a 40-minute ferry crossing
33:31.300 --> 33:32.433 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
from the South Coast.
33:32.500 --> 33:34.766 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
33:34.833 --> 33:38.266 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
While locals sit inside,
tourists soak up the view
33:38.333 --> 33:40.966 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
as we approach the craggy
group of islands.
33:41.033 --> 33:48.366 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
33:48.433 --> 33:50.833 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
The ferry squeezes
into the harbor.
33:50.900 --> 33:53.300 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
And tucked into the shelter
of the cliffs,
33:53.366 --> 33:55.833 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
our port comes into view.
33:55.900 --> 33:59.400 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
The Westman Islands' only town
is a fishing community
33:59.466 --> 34:02.100 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
surrounded by sea cliffs
and a rugged terrain
34:02.166 --> 34:05.633 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
shaped by eons of
volcanic eruptions.
34:05.700 --> 34:08.066 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
Sightseeing boats are
dwarfed and outnumbered
34:08.133 --> 34:10.200 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
by a fleet of fishing boats.
34:10.266 --> 34:12.300 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Visitors strolling
the boardwalk sense how
34:12.366 --> 34:14.066 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
fishing is big in this country,
34:14.133 --> 34:17.066 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
and the Westman Islands fleet
is the leading producer.
34:17.133 --> 34:19.066 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
34:19.133 --> 34:21.433 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
Main Street has
most of the commerce.
34:22.700 --> 34:25.433 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
And it leads past inviting
neighborhood lanes
34:25.500 --> 34:28.100 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
to a classic Icelandic church.
34:28.166 --> 34:32.733 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
But the island is best known
for a fiery eruption in 1973
34:32.800 --> 34:34.633 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
when its volcano blew.
34:34.700 --> 34:37.200 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
It was a massive event.
34:37.266 --> 34:40.100 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
The island actually
increased in size.
34:41.466 --> 34:44.333 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
The town's Volcano Museum
tells the story.
34:45.600 --> 34:48.433 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
One frightening night,
the slumbering volcano
34:48.500 --> 34:51.300 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
above town rumbled
violently to life.
34:51.366 --> 34:54.300 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Everyone evacuated by morning,
but for months,
34:54.366 --> 34:56.966 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
molten lava flowed,
slowly creeping
34:57.033 --> 34:59.500 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
closer and closer
to the town center.
34:59.566 --> 35:01.533 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
35:01.600 --> 35:04.100 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
The museum's centerpiece
is an actual house
35:04.166 --> 35:07.100 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
that was completely
engulfed by the lava.
35:07.166 --> 35:10.966 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
35:13.466 --> 35:16.366 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
50 years ago, this was
an oozing wall
35:16.433 --> 35:18.566 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
of red-hot molten lava.
35:18.633 --> 35:22.666 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
It was a slow-motion disaster
gradually consuming the town.
35:22.733 --> 35:25.633 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:27.5%
Thankfully,
it stopped right here.
35:25.700 --> 35:27.233 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Rick, voice-over: Back at
the harbor front, we're catching
35:27.300 --> 35:29.566 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
a mini-bus tour to get
a more personal take
35:29.633 --> 35:33.466 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
on that terrifying eruption
and to explore the island.
35:33.533 --> 35:35.800 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
Local guide Ebbi was
born and raised here,
35:35.866 --> 35:39.400 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
knows the island,
and is ready to roll.
35:39.466 --> 35:43.100 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
We're driving on lava left
from the 1973 eruption.
35:44.300 --> 35:46.500 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
Ebbi: So, you know,
good things, bad things
35:46.566 --> 35:48.700 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
with this--this huge
eruption like this.
35:48.766 --> 35:51.400 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Now, nobody died
because of the eruption,
35:51.466 --> 35:52.933 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
which is a very good thing.
35:53.000 --> 35:54.700 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
We've gained also about 20%.
35:54.766 --> 35:56.800 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
The island increased
in size about 20%.
35:56.866 --> 35:59.200 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
Rick: And you're more
famous for tourists now.
35:59.266 --> 36:02.200 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Ebbi: Well, yes,
it got us on the map also.
36:02.266 --> 36:05.633 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Underneath us are streets.
50 meters down underneath us,
36:05.700 --> 36:07.400 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
we have streets, we have houses.
36:07.466 --> 36:10.600 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Actually, not far from here
is my grandparents' house.
36:10.666 --> 36:13.600 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
And right here below
is one of our schools.
36:13.666 --> 36:17.766 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
This marking here is
a memorial about a house
36:17.833 --> 36:20.066 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
underneath here from
a wealthy fisherman.
36:20.133 --> 36:21.233 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Rick: This house
was straight down?
36:21.300 --> 36:23.033 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Ebbi: This house
right underneath us here.
36:23.100 --> 36:27.366 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
And everywhere on this lava,
we have these wooden crosses,
36:27.433 --> 36:29.266 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
like this one here, for example.
36:29.333 --> 36:31.400 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
This is called "Landagata."
36:31.466 --> 36:33.233 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
One of many streets
that went under.
36:33.300 --> 36:34.400 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Rick: So, that's
the name of a street?
36:34.466 --> 36:35.600 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Ebbi: There's the name of
the street
36:35.666 --> 36:37.100 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:50%
right underneath us.
36:37.166 --> 36:38.900 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Rick, voice-over:
The town side of the lava ridge
36:38.966 --> 36:41.366 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
has additional examples
of what was lost
36:41.433 --> 36:43.766 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
and reminders of how
the entire town
36:43.833 --> 36:46.066 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
could have been consumed
by the lava flow.
36:47.433 --> 36:53.633 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
36:53.700 --> 36:55.900 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
With Ebbi's help, we learned
about the island's
36:55.966 --> 36:58.833 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
long Viking history
and the hardships of living
36:58.900 --> 37:02.600 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
on an isolated island so long
ago here in the far north.
37:03.733 --> 37:06.333 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Early settlers soon learned
that on such a harsh
37:06.400 --> 37:08.566 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
volcanic island
with poor farmland,
37:08.633 --> 37:11.700 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
you have to come up with some
creative ways to feed yourself.
37:11.766 --> 37:13.366 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Ebbi: We have never been
any kind of farmers
37:13.433 --> 37:16.600 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
because we're a volcano island,
but we had to eat.
37:16.666 --> 37:18.333 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
We have fish, plenty of fish,
37:18.400 --> 37:21.300 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
and the only wildlife
we have here are the birds.
37:21.366 --> 37:22.533 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
So, we would eat the eggs.
37:22.600 --> 37:25.933 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
We collected eggs
because of survival.
37:26.000 --> 37:27.166 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
Rick: The nests are
on the cliff.
37:27.233 --> 37:28.866 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
How did they harvest the eggs?
37:28.933 --> 37:31.566 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Ebbi: So, you will have to
come down in a safety rope
37:31.633 --> 37:33.866 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
and you learn how to
collect the eggs here.
37:33.933 --> 37:36.433 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
And we swing over to where
we want to go
37:36.500 --> 37:38.433 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
to collect the eggs,
and we swing back.
37:38.500 --> 37:41.100 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
And that is also
a safety reason.
37:41.166 --> 37:43.800 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
So, if birds are attacking
you, you can swing away.
37:45.400 --> 37:47.233 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Rick, voice-over: We moved
to another cliff to learn
37:47.300 --> 37:50.533 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
how the tradition of
egg collecting, or sprangan,
37:50.600 --> 37:53.566 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
is passed on to
the next generation.
37:53.633 --> 37:56.066 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Rick: Do people still know
how to do this practice?
37:56.133 --> 37:58.033 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Ebbi: Absolutely.
This is a traditional thing
37:58.100 --> 37:59.666 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
that every local kids
will learn.
37:59.733 --> 38:01.666 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
We start at age of
8 or 9 years old.
38:01.733 --> 38:04.800 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
Like this girl here,
she's about 13 years old.
38:04.866 --> 38:06.633 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
Both boys and girls
will learn this.
38:06.700 --> 38:11.266 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
This is a traditional thing
that every local kid learns.
38:11.333 --> 38:13.366 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Literally, your grandfather
or grandma
38:13.433 --> 38:15.233 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
will show you
literally the ropes.
38:15.300 --> 38:17.200 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
And this is the first thing
you learn
38:17.266 --> 38:19.500 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
before you go up
and collect the eggs.
38:19.566 --> 38:21.166 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
First you learn sprangan.
38:21.233 --> 38:22.666 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Then you learn how
to collect the eggs.
38:22.733 --> 38:25.300 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
It's not a matter
of "we have to."
38:25.366 --> 38:29.666 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
It is a matter of
not forgetting how it was,
38:29.733 --> 38:33.300 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
how we had to
collect the eggs for survival.
38:33.366 --> 38:35.900 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
The rule is, if there are
four eggs, you can take two.
38:35.966 --> 38:37.466 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
If there are three eggs,
you can take one.
38:37.533 --> 38:40.066 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
You always leave two eggs behind
38:40.133 --> 38:42.733 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
because we don't want to
damage the bird colonies here.
38:42.800 --> 38:44.600 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
And we've been doing
this for 1,000 years.
38:44.666 --> 38:45.900 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
Still we have
all the birds here,
38:45.966 --> 38:47.633 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
so, we must be
doing something right.
38:47.700 --> 38:49.100 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Rick, voice-over:
And as if to prove his point,
38:49.166 --> 38:51.733 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Ebbi takes us to
a thriving puffin colony
38:51.800 --> 38:54.500 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
popular with birders
and tourists alike.
38:54.566 --> 38:55.800 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
Ebbi: So, this location here
38:55.866 --> 38:59.100 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
is the biggest
puffin colony in the world.
38:59.166 --> 39:02.033 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Now, people come here to
see the puffins, of course.
39:02.100 --> 39:04.800 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
The puffins, they live
in the ocean for eight months.
39:04.866 --> 39:06.800 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
And they're only here
during the summer
39:06.866 --> 39:08.166 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
just to do that one thing.
39:08.233 --> 39:09.366 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:60%
And that is to make that
39:09.433 --> 39:11.200 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
one egg a year that they make.
39:11.266 --> 39:14.000 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
They make one egg
per year, per couple.
39:14.066 --> 39:17.666 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Now, the...half of the colony
is right now underneath here.
39:17.733 --> 39:19.800 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
There are thousands of birds
39:19.866 --> 39:21.500 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
sitting, taking care of the egg.
39:21.566 --> 39:23.800 align:start position:37.5% line:79.33% size:25%
Right now.
Underneath us right now.
39:23.866 --> 39:25.400 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
Rick: Under us.
Ebbi: Underneath us.
39:25.466 --> 39:28.266 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Everywhere is a burrow
where they've digged in
39:28.333 --> 39:31.300 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
and they have this, like
an apartment, kind of.
39:31.366 --> 39:33.633 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
And half of the colony
is outside
39:33.700 --> 39:36.200 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
and out in the ocean
getting fish,
39:36.266 --> 39:39.633 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
and the other half is
taking care of the eggs.
39:39.700 --> 39:42.066 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
And people all around the world
39:42.133 --> 39:44.866 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
come to see the puffins,
of course.
39:44.933 --> 39:45.933 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:47.5%
And they come here.
39:46.000 --> 39:49.666 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
39:52.633 --> 39:54.666 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Rick, voice-over: Back on
the mainland, we're continuing
39:54.733 --> 39:56.300 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
around the Ring Road.
39:56.366 --> 39:58.933 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
And there're lots more
dramatic natural sights.
40:00.666 --> 40:03.300 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
From this rugged promontory,
on a clear day,
40:03.366 --> 40:06.066 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
you can see virtually
the entire South Coast.
40:06.133 --> 40:09.733 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
40:09.800 --> 40:12.700 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
And just below is one of
this volcanic island's
40:12.766 --> 40:14.866 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:60%
many black sand beaches.
40:14.933 --> 40:18.433 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Travelers are enthralled
by this fantastical landscape.
40:18.500 --> 40:20.433 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
40:20.500 --> 40:23.333 align:start position:37.5% line:79.33% size:25%
Sea stacks
rise out of the briny waves.
40:24.600 --> 40:27.800 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Basalt formations bring out
the kid in every adventurer.
40:27.866 --> 40:31.900 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
40:31.966 --> 40:35.233 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
A windy walk immersed
in this pristine beauty
40:35.300 --> 40:38.100 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
can be unforgettable.
40:38.166 --> 40:40.066 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Marking the end of
the South Coast,
40:40.133 --> 40:42.466 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
the village of Vík
is the southernmost
40:42.533 --> 40:44.133 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
settlement in Iceland.
40:44.200 --> 40:46.866 align:start position:10% line:10% size:77.5%
Vik is both humble and sparse--
little more
40:46.933 --> 40:49.233 align:start position:17.5% line:10% size:62.5%
than a practical pit stop
for travelers.
40:50.200 --> 40:52.866 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
And for this village,
that's nothing new.
40:52.933 --> 40:55.566 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
Historically,
there was no harbor.
40:55.633 --> 40:58.000 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
A century ago, before
the arrival of the road,
40:58.066 --> 41:01.500 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
provisions came in by boats
beached on this shore.
41:02.766 --> 41:05.066 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
What we've done so far,
with Cameron Hewitt,
41:05.133 --> 41:07.833 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
who co-authors guidebooks
with me, is all within
41:07.900 --> 41:10.133 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
day-tripping distance
from Reykjavík.
41:12.900 --> 41:17.100 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Rick: Reykjavík is 3 hours
that way, or 6 days that way.
41:17.166 --> 41:19.300 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
I'm heading straight back
to work on the book.
41:19.366 --> 41:21.633 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
But we'll follow
Cameron and the crew
41:21.700 --> 41:24.700 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
as he does his research
the long way around.
41:24.766 --> 41:26.633 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
We'll meet up back in Reykjavík.
41:29.066 --> 41:31.666 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Rick, voice-over: Leaving Vík,
the traffic thins out
41:31.733 --> 41:33.466 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
and the landscape opens up.
41:34.933 --> 41:37.033 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
We've just left Rick
in Vík, and now we're
41:37.100 --> 41:38.766 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
continuing around the Ring Road.
41:38.833 --> 41:40.733 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
And, you know, already
the terrain is changing
41:40.800 --> 41:41.966 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
and the weather is changing.
41:42.033 --> 41:43.966 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
In fact, Iceland
is always changing.
41:44.033 --> 41:46.000 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
That's why it's so important
for us to go and travel
41:46.066 --> 41:48.100 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
in person to update our
guidebooks to make sure
41:48.166 --> 41:50.500 align:start position:40% line:79.33% size:17.5%
we have
the very latest information.
41:50.566 --> 41:52.866 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
Rick, voice-over: The next stop
is glacier country.
41:52.933 --> 41:56.866 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
1/10 of Iceland is covered in
glaciers, and the biggest one
41:56.933 --> 41:59.600 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
spreads across the top
of these mountains.
41:59.666 --> 42:02.600 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Its many outlets--called
tongues--reach down
42:02.666 --> 42:04.800 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
and lap at lowland valleys.
42:05.833 --> 42:09.866 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
The road crosses vast plains
of glacial grit and gravel,
42:09.933 --> 42:11.500 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:60%
laced with milky rivers.
42:11.566 --> 42:14.100 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
42:14.166 --> 42:16.766 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
At the foot of some glaciers
are lagoons
42:16.833 --> 42:20.000 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
bobbing with small icebergs
that have broken off.
42:20.066 --> 42:22.866 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
Lagoon cruises take
tourists out on these
42:22.933 --> 42:25.166 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
moody and beautiful waters.
42:25.233 --> 42:28.166 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
42:29.266 --> 42:31.733 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Passengers gear up
in heavy jackets
42:31.800 --> 42:33.633 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
and prepare for the adventure.
42:34.733 --> 42:37.433 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
They climb into
inflatable boats and then
42:37.500 --> 42:39.666 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
float through
this dreamy landscape.
42:40.800 --> 42:43.300 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
It's an unforgettable
experience,
42:43.366 --> 42:44.666 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
no matter the weather.
42:44.733 --> 42:46.766 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
Our enthusiastic guide offers
42:46.833 --> 42:49.433 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
a lesson in glaciers 101.
42:49.500 --> 42:52.866 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Man: Then, of course, there's
the white ice and the blue ice.
42:52.933 --> 42:54.566 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Rick, voice-over:
He explains how and why
42:54.633 --> 42:56.800 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
there are different colors
of ice.
42:56.866 --> 42:58.800 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
There's black ice,
which is coated with
42:58.866 --> 43:01.033 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:52.5%
dirt or volcanic ash.
43:01.100 --> 43:03.800 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
Then there's white ice, which
is packed with air bubbles.
43:04.833 --> 43:07.700 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
Transparent ice
has fewer air bubbles.
43:07.766 --> 43:10.733 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
And then blue ice, which is
highly compressed and dense,
43:10.800 --> 43:12.433 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
has no air bubbles at all,
43:12.500 --> 43:14.900 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:30%
and reflects
blue light intensely.
43:16.066 --> 43:18.266 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Travelers get the chance
to hold a chunk of ice
43:18.333 --> 43:22.500 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
that originally fell
as snow...500 years ago.
43:22.566 --> 43:26.466 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:77.5%
The guide explains how glaciers
naturally grow and recede.
43:26.533 --> 43:28.366 align:start position:40% line:79.33% size:20%
In fact,
this glacier used to extend
43:28.433 --> 43:31.833 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
all the way across the lagoon
at the end of the 19th century
43:31.900 --> 43:35.666 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
but has been retreating now
for over 130 years.
43:35.733 --> 43:38.166 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Man: It is absolutely natural,
absolutely normal that at
43:38.233 --> 43:40.166 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:30%
some points,
the glaciers are growing.
43:40.233 --> 43:42.166 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
At some point,
the glaciers are retreating.
43:42.233 --> 43:43.833 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
But now the glaciers
are retreating
43:43.900 --> 43:47.133 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
way, way faster
because of global warming.
43:47.200 --> 43:49.133 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Rick, voice-over: Even from
the shore, people marvel
43:49.200 --> 43:52.200 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
at how glacial ice comes in
a stunning variety of
43:52.266 --> 43:54.766 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
shapes, sizes, and colors.
43:55.866 --> 43:58.633 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
The wind pushes the icebergs
into a traffic jam
43:58.700 --> 44:01.066 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
where the lagoon
meets the Atlantic.
44:01.133 --> 44:03.700 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
Birds and seals feed
in the swirling waters
44:03.766 --> 44:08.133 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
as the icebergs wait for their
final journey out to sea.
44:08.200 --> 44:11.233 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
When conditions are right,
chunks of ice wash up
44:11.300 --> 44:13.866 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
on the nearby black-sand beach.
44:13.933 --> 44:16.266 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Nicknamed "Diamond Beach,"
it looks like
44:16.333 --> 44:20.600 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
thousands of gigantic gems
scattered over black velvet.
44:25.233 --> 44:27.333 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Leaving the glaciers behind,
the Ring Road
44:27.400 --> 44:28.933 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:60%
hugs the wild coastline.
44:29.000 --> 44:31.366 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:30%
The churning
North Atlantic surf crashes
44:31.433 --> 44:34.800 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
on deserted beaches
and rocky shores.
44:34.866 --> 44:37.300 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Soon, yawning bays
grow narrower,
44:37.366 --> 44:39.733 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
becoming the serene fjords
that slice
44:39.800 --> 44:42.800 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
deep into the east coast
of Iceland.
44:42.866 --> 44:46.200 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Driving along the Eastfjords
is long and slow,
44:46.266 --> 44:48.000 align:start position:27.5% line:84.66% size:45%
but always scenic.
44:48.066 --> 44:50.233 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
44:50.300 --> 44:54.900 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
And around each bend unfolds
one grand fjord after another.
44:57.500 --> 45:00.100 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Tucked away at the deepest
point in one fjord
45:00.166 --> 45:03.800 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
is the colorful village
of Seydisfjordur.
45:03.866 --> 45:06.833 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
This charming place is
a magnet for young artists
45:06.900 --> 45:09.366 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
who appreciate
its majestic setting,
45:09.433 --> 45:13.566 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
vibrant murals, and trendy
places to eat and drink.
45:13.633 --> 45:16.533 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
45:16.600 --> 45:20.000 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
It's a welcome pocket of
quirky creativity
45:20.066 --> 45:21.966 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
in this very remote corner.
45:22.033 --> 45:27.133 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
45:30.233 --> 45:33.200 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Leaving the fjords and turning
inland, the road crosses
45:33.266 --> 45:36.233 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
the vast and arid Highlands.
45:36.300 --> 45:38.366 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
Tucked away in these rocky folds
45:38.433 --> 45:40.766 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
is another iconic waterfall.
45:42.166 --> 45:44.400 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Arriving at what looks like
just a desolate
45:44.466 --> 45:47.166 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
volcanic landscape,
if you follow the trail,
45:47.233 --> 45:49.900 align:start position:10% line:79.33% size:80%
you'll hear the thundering falls
before you see them.
45:49.966 --> 45:51.933 align:start position:30% line:10% size:37.5%
[Water rushing]
45:52.000 --> 45:55.366 align:start position:15% line:10% size:67.5%
Dettifoss is this country's
most powerful waterfall...
45:55.433 --> 45:58.866 align:start position:47.5% line:10% size:2.5%
♪
45:58.933 --> 46:02.533 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
with 50,000 gallons of water
every second
46:02.600 --> 46:05.233 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
tumbling through
an awe-inspiring gorge
46:05.300 --> 46:06.900 align:start position:27.5% line:84.66% size:42.5%
of basalt cliffs.
46:06.966 --> 46:11.033 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
46:11.100 --> 46:14.066 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
The falls fill the air
with mist and rainbows...
46:14.133 --> 46:16.066 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
46:16.133 --> 46:18.766 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
and fill visitors
with an appreciation
46:18.833 --> 46:21.733 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
for the grandeur
of Icelandic nature.
46:26.000 --> 46:28.300 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Continuing west,
the barren plateau
46:28.366 --> 46:32.000 align:start position:15% line:10% size:70%
gives way to the green oasis
of Lake Myvatn.
46:32.066 --> 46:35.100 align:start position:47.5% line:10% size:2.5%
♪
46:35.166 --> 46:37.266 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Ringing the lake
is a wide variety
46:37.333 --> 46:39.300 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
of volcanic landscapes.
46:39.366 --> 46:42.433 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Compact and accessible,
Myvatn feels like
46:42.500 --> 46:44.066 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
Iceland's Yellowstone.
46:44.133 --> 46:46.066 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
46:46.133 --> 46:48.800 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
Along the lakeshore,
these "pseudo-craters"
46:48.866 --> 46:53.133 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
are giant burst bubbles of
molten rock...stopped in time.
46:54.466 --> 46:58.133 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
At these pinnacles of lava--
called the "Dark Castles"--
46:58.200 --> 47:01.500 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
families and hikers love
exploring a maze of trails
47:01.566 --> 47:03.500 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
between fanciful landforms.
47:03.566 --> 47:07.433 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
47:07.500 --> 47:10.733 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
And looming over the lakeshore
is a perfect
47:10.800 --> 47:12.566 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:50%
volcanic ash crater.
47:13.966 --> 47:16.933 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
Bizarrely beautiful,
like visiting a moonscape,
47:17.033 --> 47:19.166 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
it's one more indelible memory
47:19.233 --> 47:22.100 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
that comes with
driving the Ring Road.
47:23.500 --> 47:27.900 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Nearby, the geothermal
activity keeps on simmering.
47:27.966 --> 47:30.266 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Visitors wander through
this mind-bending,
47:30.333 --> 47:32.066 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
almost Martian landscape.
47:33.300 --> 47:35.300 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
Mud puddles bubble and steam.
47:36.700 --> 47:39.066 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
Fumaroles hiss like teakettles.
47:39.133 --> 47:41.733 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
47:41.800 --> 47:45.400 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
The terrain is brushed
in vivid colors.
47:45.466 --> 47:48.866 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
And everything reeks of sulfur.
47:48.933 --> 48:05.366 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
48:05.433 --> 48:06.600 align:start position:37.5% line:79.33% size:22.5%
You know,
when you come to a place
48:06.666 --> 48:08.433 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
as unusual as this,
the real challenge
48:08.500 --> 48:10.100 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
for a travel writer
is figuring out
48:10.166 --> 48:12.933 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
how to capture the sort of
sense of awe and wonder,
48:13.000 --> 48:14.433 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
and the essence of a place,
and then
48:14.500 --> 48:16.600 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
translate that into words.
48:16.666 --> 48:18.466 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Rick, voice-over: Nearby
geothermal plants harness
48:18.533 --> 48:20.633 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
all this volcanic power
for heating
48:20.700 --> 48:22.600 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
and to generate electricity...
48:22.666 --> 48:24.433 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
and even here in the far north,
48:24.500 --> 48:27.933 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
Icelanders use their
endless hot water just for fun.
48:29.233 --> 48:32.300 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
The Myvatn Nature Baths,
overlooking the steamy
48:32.366 --> 48:35.600 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
volcanic landscape, are
a popular place to unwind
48:35.666 --> 48:38.700 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
in warm water tinted
with natural minerals.
48:44.166 --> 48:47.333 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
The landscape changes again
up along the north coast.
48:49.766 --> 48:52.400 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
The Ring Road itself is
a scenic spine around Iceland,
48:52.466 --> 48:54.000 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
but if you just stick
to Highway 1,
48:54.066 --> 48:55.500 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
there's a lot you might miss.
48:55.566 --> 48:57.166 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
That's why, if you have
a good guidebook,
48:57.233 --> 48:59.333 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
you'll know which of
the side trips and detours
48:59.400 --> 49:01.100 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
are most worth the extra miles.
49:03.000 --> 49:05.400 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Rick, voice-over: And one
of those is Húsavík,
49:05.466 --> 49:08.800 align:start position:12.5% line:10% size:75%
with its salty and picturesque
harbor on a protected bay,
49:08.866 --> 49:10.466 align:start position:12.5% line:10% size:72.5%
and a proud fishing heritage.
49:10.533 --> 49:12.700 align:start position:47.5% line:10% size:2.5%
♪
49:12.766 --> 49:15.766 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Today, a stop here
educates visitors
49:15.833 --> 49:17.700 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
about Iceland's whales.
49:18.966 --> 49:22.233 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
The Húsavík Whale Museum
displays the bones of whales
49:22.300 --> 49:24.633 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
that have washed ashore
from around the island.
49:24.700 --> 49:27.566 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
49:27.633 --> 49:30.133 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
The lovingly displayed
skeletons teach visitors
49:30.200 --> 49:32.200 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
about these magnificent mammals.
49:32.266 --> 49:35.533 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
49:35.600 --> 49:38.900 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
The star of the show--
an 80-foot-long blue whale,
49:38.966 --> 49:41.900 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
with a rib cage
as big as a truck.
49:45.466 --> 49:48.433 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
For a chance to watch living
whales, out at the harbor,
49:48.500 --> 49:51.100 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
visitors choose between
classic fishing boats
49:51.166 --> 49:53.000 align:start position:40% line:79.33% size:17.5%
or--for
a little more adventure--
49:53.066 --> 49:55.666 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:57.5%
high-speed inflatables.
49:55.733 --> 49:59.666 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Whale watchers suit up
and prepare for the journey.
49:59.733 --> 50:03.000 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Tourists climb on board,
excited for the possibility
50:03.066 --> 50:06.800 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
of a close encounter
with a gentle giant.
50:06.866 --> 50:09.966 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
If they're lucky, they may
come home with happy memories
50:10.033 --> 50:13.100 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
of breaching humpbacks
and curious orcas.
50:13.166 --> 50:35.800 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
50:39.366 --> 50:41.466 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Continuing across
Iceland's north,
50:41.533 --> 50:44.800 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
the coastal road curls around
the Troll Peninsula,
50:44.866 --> 50:47.300 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
with sweeping vistas
toward the Arctic Circle.
50:49.866 --> 50:51.566 align:start position:32.5% line:10% size:32.5%
At the tip of
the Troll Peninsula
50:51.633 --> 50:55.366 align:start position:12.5% line:10% size:75%
sits the historic fishing town
of Siglufjordur.
50:55.433 --> 50:56.866 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
The mountains at the mouth
of the fjord
50:56.933 --> 50:58.433 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
protect the little harbor.
50:58.500 --> 51:01.000 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
And behind it
is an endearing museum
51:01.066 --> 51:03.933 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
that tells the story
of how, around 1900,
51:04.000 --> 51:07.433 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
this became a boom town
for herring.
51:07.500 --> 51:09.866 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Visitors learn how these
tough, little boats
51:09.933 --> 51:11.366 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
caught mountains of herring--
51:11.433 --> 51:14.066 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:30%
a nutritious
and highly prized food.
51:14.133 --> 51:17.333 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
This herring harvest powered
Iceland's fledgling economy
51:17.400 --> 51:19.966 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
through the first half
of the 20th century.
51:20.033 --> 51:21.833 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Cameron's learning more
about the story
51:21.900 --> 51:24.033 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
from local guide Edda.
51:24.100 --> 51:25.800 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Cameron: Tell me, why is it
in this town, why herring?
51:25.866 --> 51:27.900 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
What's special about
herring to this town?
51:27.966 --> 51:30.733 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Edda: So, the herring industry
was, for the longest time,
51:30.800 --> 51:32.966 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
one of the biggest industries
in the country,
51:33.033 --> 51:35.100 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
for the most part
of the 20th century.
51:35.166 --> 51:37.100 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
And for the longest time,
this town had
51:37.166 --> 51:38.700 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
the biggest herring port
in Iceland.
51:38.766 --> 51:41.766 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
And we often refer to this
as the capital of the herring.
51:41.833 --> 51:44.766 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
So, we are located in front
of a salting station,
51:44.833 --> 51:48.733 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
and from 1907 until 1968,
herring was salted here.
51:48.800 --> 51:51.666 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
We had the women, the herring
girls, salting and packing
51:51.733 --> 51:52.900 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
the herring into the barrels.
51:52.966 --> 51:54.166 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Cameron: And so, this,
this table here
51:54.233 --> 51:55.466 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
is exactly where that happened.
51:55.533 --> 51:56.533 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:27.5%
Edda: Yeah.
So, this is what
51:56.600 --> 51:57.733 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:60%
we call the herring box.
51:57.800 --> 51:59.800 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
And the fishermen
coming into the fjord
51:59.866 --> 52:02.400 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
would start by unloading
the herring into those boxes,
52:02.466 --> 52:05.633 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
and then they would call out
the herring girls for work,
52:05.700 --> 52:07.700 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
and they would take
one herring at a time,
52:07.766 --> 52:10.233 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
cutting the head off
and pulling the guts out.
52:10.300 --> 52:12.200 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
And then they would place
the herring in here.
52:12.266 --> 52:13.466 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
They would do this
until they had
52:13.533 --> 52:15.066 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
almost filled this container.
52:15.133 --> 52:17.500 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
Then, in here, they would
mix it with the salt
52:17.566 --> 52:20.466 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
and then finally stack it
into the barrels.
52:20.533 --> 52:22.933 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
So, this is where the
herring girls would live.
52:23.000 --> 52:25.433 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
The women that would come from
all the places in Iceland
52:25.500 --> 52:28.266 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
just to work here at this
particular salting station.
52:28.333 --> 52:29.966 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
This would be an example
of their bedrooms.
52:30.033 --> 52:31.500 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:30%
Cameron: OK.
How many herring girls
52:31.566 --> 52:33.000 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
would live in a room
about this size?
52:33.066 --> 52:35.133 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
Edda: So, there could be
up to 50 women
52:35.200 --> 52:37.000 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
living in all this,
the whole building.
52:37.066 --> 52:39.166 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
But at the busiest years,
they would have to
52:39.233 --> 52:40.733 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
share the beds, two to a bed.
52:40.800 --> 52:42.366 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
So, there could be
up to 12 women
52:42.433 --> 52:45.200 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
living in a room this size.
52:45.266 --> 52:46.600 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Cameron: Tell me about
their working hours.
52:46.666 --> 52:47.866 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Edda: When there was herring
to be salted,
52:47.933 --> 52:49.800 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
they need to be outside working.
52:49.866 --> 52:51.366 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
And so, that meant
that they could be
52:51.433 --> 52:53.533 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
working very long shifts.
52:53.600 --> 52:56.466 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
So, it could be 20-hour shifts,
52:56.533 --> 52:58.333 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
and one herring girl
we interviewed,
52:58.400 --> 53:00.466 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
she said that her longer shift
by the herring box
53:00.533 --> 53:02.866 align:start position:22.5% line:84.66% size:55%
was 34 hours straight.
53:02.933 --> 53:04.166 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
Rick, voice-over:
It's inspiring to see
53:04.233 --> 53:06.066 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:47.5%
the thoughtful ways
Iceland preserves
53:06.133 --> 53:08.666 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:35%
and celebrates
its unique heritage.
53:12.100 --> 53:14.500 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
Finishing the loop
and leaving the coast behind,
53:14.566 --> 53:16.400 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:72.5%
the road swings to the south.
53:16.466 --> 53:18.600 align:start position:32.5% line:79.33% size:32.5%
Along the way
is another artifact
53:18.666 --> 53:20.800 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:42.5%
of this country's
rugged history.
53:20.866 --> 53:22.866 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
53:22.933 --> 53:24.833 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:30%
In this land
where trees are scarce,
53:24.900 --> 53:27.133 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
houses were made out of sod.
53:28.333 --> 53:31.366 align:start position:20% line:10% size:60%
Glaumbaer is a perfectly
preserved turf house
53:31.433 --> 53:32.833 align:start position:22.5% line:10% size:55%
dating back centuries.
53:32.900 --> 53:35.600 align:start position:47.5% line:10% size:2.5%
♪
53:35.666 --> 53:37.866 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
The grassy roof
waves in the wind
53:37.933 --> 53:40.700 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
as visitors admire the sturdy
herringbone pattern
53:40.766 --> 53:43.933 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:62.5%
of the stacked-sod walls.
53:44.000 --> 53:47.600 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Inside, an earthen corridor
connects several rooms.
53:47.666 --> 53:50.166 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:37.5%
Food was stored
in wooden barrels.
53:51.366 --> 53:54.966 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
In the kitchen, meals were
cooked over a sheep dung fire.
53:56.400 --> 53:58.900 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
The farmer's family had
a spacious bedroom
53:58.966 --> 54:00.266 align:start position:27.5% line:84.66% size:45%
all to themselves.
54:01.766 --> 54:04.666 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:60%
But the farmhands bunked
in a communal living room.
54:06.266 --> 54:09.533 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Workers slept two to a bed,
tucked in by a wooden panel
54:09.600 --> 54:11.100 align:start position:25% line:84.66% size:50%
carved with prayers.
54:12.266 --> 54:15.333 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Women, who did the delicate
spinning work, got the bunks
54:15.400 --> 54:17.600 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
near the windows
for the better light.
54:19.133 --> 54:22.866 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:30%
People still
lived here until 1947.
54:22.933 --> 54:26.600 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:67.5%
Modern as Iceland is today,
many grandparents remember
54:26.666 --> 54:28.400 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:80%
growing up in houses like these.
54:28.466 --> 54:32.166 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
54:32.233 --> 54:35.333 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
As the Ring Road winds its way
back toward Reykjavík,
54:35.400 --> 54:37.900 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
there's time for
one last scenic detour.
54:37.966 --> 54:39.566 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
54:39.633 --> 54:42.066 align:start position:32.5% line:10% size:35%
A drive around
the Snaefellsnes peninsula
54:42.133 --> 54:46.066 align:start position:12.5% line:10% size:72.5%
offers a wrap-up of Iceland's
dramatic natural wonders:
54:46.133 --> 54:52.666 align:start position:20% line:79.33% size:57.5%
Iconic peaks, sheltered
fjords, frisky horses,
54:52.733 --> 54:57.300 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
glacier-topped mountains,
swirling sea birds,
54:57.366 --> 55:01.733 align:start position:27.5% line:79.33% size:45%
climbable craters,
and abundant waterfalls.
55:01.800 --> 55:05.633 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
55:05.700 --> 55:09.666 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:72.5%
In short, it's a microcosm of
all the unique forms of nature
55:09.733 --> 55:11.466 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:67.5%
that Iceland is famous for.
55:12.433 --> 55:14.600 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:27.5%
This encore
of Icelandic splendor
55:14.666 --> 55:17.166 align:start position:25% line:79.33% size:50%
caps one of Europe's
great road trips.
55:17.233 --> 55:19.500 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪
55:19.566 --> 55:23.300 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
After 800 miles, the crew
meets back up with me
55:23.366 --> 55:26.100 align:start position:10% line:84.66% size:77.5%
where we started--in Reykjavík.
55:29.933 --> 55:33.200 align:start position:15% line:79.33% size:70%
Rick: Iceland may be a small
country with a small population.
55:33.266 --> 55:35.666 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Cameron: But it comes with
a powerful sightseeing punch.
55:35.733 --> 55:37.533 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:55%
Rick: I'm Rick Steves.
Cameron: And I'm Cameron Hewitt.
55:37.600 --> 55:38.933 align:start position:15% line:84.66% size:70%
Rick: Thanks for joining us.
55:39.000 --> 55:41.366 align:start position:30% line:79.33% size:40%
Until next time,
keep on traveling!
55:43.333 --> 55:45.333 align:start position:12.5% line:79.33% size:75%
Rick: Tell me a tongue twister
in Icelandic.
55:45.400 --> 55:48.433 align:start position:12.5% line:84.66% size:75%
Saga: Ah. [Speaking Icelandic]
55:48.500 --> 55:50.266 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
Rick: What does that mean?
Saga: It's a town.
55:50.333 --> 55:51.900 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
You know, as more and more
people discover
55:51.966 --> 55:54.533 align:start position:22.5% line:79.33% size:52.5%
this beautiful place,
it's really more important--
55:54.600 --> 55:56.666 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:65%
than--sorry, there's a fly
right on my glasses.
55:56.733 --> 55:59.533 align:start position:17.5% line:84.66% size:65%
He was literally--[Laughs]
55:59.600 --> 56:02.066 align:start position:17.5% line:79.33% size:62.5%
You better not be rolling
with this hat on.
56:02.133 --> 56:03.933 align:start position:35% line:79.33% size:30%
[Man laughs]
Man 2: [Indistinct]
56:04.000 --> 56:05.133 align:start position:20% line:84.66% size:60%
Rick: There's a blooper.
56:05.200 --> 56:14.833 align:start position:47.5% line:10% size:2.5%
♪
56:16.200 --> 56:17.200 align:start position:47.5% line:84.66% size:2.5%
♪