Reykjavik Ramblings: When Numbers Bleed Across a City
okay, so here i am in reykjavik, and honestly, my brain feels like it's running on fumes. the numbers, those weird string of ones and zeroes - 1879613 and 1408625970 - they just popped into my head while staring at the aurora borealis. it’s the weirdest thing. like my soul decided to have a coding session while i was trying to appreciate the dancing lights. the weather? i just checked and it's... there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. you know, perpetually drizzly with a hint of frost. absolutely perfect for contemplating existential dread and strong coffee.
i'm a freelance photographer, so capturing this whole vibe felt kinda important. it’s a city that feels simultaneously ancient and futuristic. the old harbor looks like a scene from a Norse saga one minute, and then you're dodging electric scooters the next. i’m staying in a little Airbnb near the city center. the host, a woman named Astrid, kept telling me about the hidden people - the elves, she called them. i heard that someone told me that she’s been leaving out offerings of shiny stones for them near her garden. totally wild, right?
*The neighbors are a mix of tourists (lots of selfie sticks), locals bundled up against the wind, and a surprising amount of people just sitting and staring out at the ocean. if you get bored, Copenhagen is just a short drive away. i’m trying to soak everything in before the rental car gets me out of here.
Gear List (because, duh):
*Camera: My trusty Canon EOS R6 is getting a workout. Seriously, this thing is a workhorse.
*Lens: A 24-70mm f/2.8 is my go-to for versatility.
*Tripod: Essential for those long exposure shots of the Northern Lights. Manfrotto makes a decent one.
*Rain Gear: Layers, layers, layers. Seriously, prepare for anything.
*Waterproof Backpack: You'll need it.
Pro-Tip: Head to Hallgrímskirkja church for panoramic views of the city. it’s seriously breathtaking.
Overheard Gossip (because why not?): Someone told me that the best hot dog in Iceland is the one from Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur. I heard that it’s a local institution, and it’s ridiculously cheap. And someone else swore that the Blue Lagoon is overpriced, but worth it for the experience. Someone is hinting that the geothermal pools are the real deal, though, and a bit more affordable. Reykjavik's* streets are surprisingly walkable, but be prepared for uneven sidewalks.
I’m wandering around now, trying to find a cozy cafe and maybe learn a little Icelandic. It's a confusing language, but also kind of beautiful. I’m thinking of checking out the Sun Voyager sculpture - it's supposed to be super photogenic. And the harbor… it’s always teeming with boats.
This whole trip feels… significant. The numbers, the weather, the people, the light… it’s all just… a lot. i’m off to explore some more. stay tuned for more ramblings!
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