ElleT

Hey everyone,

Been reading the forum messages here for a long time, and have always been impressed at how very knowledgeable and helpful you all are! I'd like to ask a few questions myself, in hopes of getting some thoughts and opinions.

I will be going to Reykjavik in April, and have noticed that the trip can actually be booked as a (up to) week-long stopover, with an ultimate destination in Europe (Oslo, Stockholm, London, etc). It actually costs $100 LESS to book an Icelandair flight from Boston - Reykjavik - London than to book Boston - Reykjavik. So, my thinking is that I might as well make the trip a two-parter.

I've been to Europe five times, and have spent time in most of the cities where Icelandair flies. But I haven't yet seen Glasgow or Oslo, though, and really would enjoy it to see either. I would be spending 5 days or so in one of those cities.

My question is, which do I see? And if I choose Glasgow, would it be advisable to fly into London (since I'd love to spend a day or two there again) and then somehow get myself to Glasgow for several days? Or do I choose Oslo? I'd love some thoughts, as either city would be wonderful. Hotel recommendations would be equally welcome.

Happy 2006!
E.

Debs

You're talking about the Take-A-Break option from IcelandAir, which we took advantage of a few years ago. We combined Reykjavek and Olso and loved both. At that time, you had a 3-night max stay in Iceland so it's nice to see that that's been expanded. We stopped to change planes in Iceland, then continued on to Oslo for 5 nights before returning to Iceland. We traveled at the end of May/beginning of June, so we have very, very long days and hours of daylight which enabled us to really get quite a lot of sightseeing into those hours. If you decide on Oslo, make sure to allow for enough time during your stay to do the Norway In A Nutshell tour-the sites are breathtaking. Oslo is a very walkable city and offers museums and parks to spend time in. Although we only had 2 nights in Iceland and opted not to rent a car, we took both the city tour and Golden Circle tours offered by Reykjavek Excursions. The GC tour should not be missed! Just be prepared for sticker shock in both countries-beauty comes with a steep price! If you decide on Oslo, check to see if Peppe's pizza is still there and don't miss the opportunity to eat there-even if it's at the airport! ENJOY!

ElleT

Oslo is a place I've wanted to see since 1996, when I was 45 minutes from the border (in Sweden) and couldn't convince my friend to make the trek. Maybe it's time now!

I just want to hear people's thoughts on Glasglow/Edinburgh - since I've never been to Scotland - and perhaps a few more Oslo experiences! I'm looking forward to the longer daylight hours in Reykjavik, definitely. And I know it'll be pricy, but certainly worth it, I'm sure.

ElleT

Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?

wasleys

I believe there are Iceland - Glasgow flights. Glasgow and Edinburgh are close with a frequent train service (50 mins ev 15 mins). Glasgow is a nice, very friendly city with good museums and, of course the Burrell Collection. Edinburgh is superb to look at with the Castle on its rock, the Royal Mile and Princes Street. Both are convenient for trips to places like Stirling (mini Edinburgh) and Perth.