10 A Beautiful Place & Experience: The Northern Lights, Reykjavík Iceland

Of all the places I have been fortunate enough to travel to in my lifetime, it is SO HARD to pick just one beautiful location. However, I would definitely say that seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland was the most memorable, not only because of the beautiful view of lights dancing across the sky but also because of the experience. It was my little sister's choice to take our family to Iceland, as it was her 16th birthday gift (both my sister and I chose to go on a vacation wherever we wanted rather than having a sweet 16 party) and her one big wish was to see the Northern Lights. We did other things in Iceland too, going to the Blue Lagoon, riding 4-wheelers through the snow, some hiking on beaches, and lots of sightseeing. 

When it came to seeing the Northern Lights, we decided to book a nighttime boat ride that is specifically known for getting viewings of this natural wonder. Throughout the week, anticipation and excitement rose if we would ever see the Lights, since it is never a guarantee. Eventually, the night came for our boat ride. 

We drove out to the ocean where our boat would meet us around 9 or 10pm. We're talking nighttime in October in Iceland... it was freezing!! Before we stepped onto the boat we stopped by the storefront to get geared up for the frigid weather. They must have given us 5 layers of clothing and a jacket that almost weighted as much as me!! Literally if I had called down I don't think I could've been able to make it back up.

We boarded the boat, found a place outside, and waited. The boat brought us into the middle of the water, turned off its lights, and sat. Not many people talked. Everyone around us had their head tilted upwards and eyes locked on the sky. Waiting. 

Time began to pass, and it was hard not to think of the letdown that would come from not getting to see the Northern Lights. As it got later and later, we weren't sure how much longer we would be out on the water. Freezing (even with all of our clothes) and huddled together, we waited a little longer. Until....

Out of nowhere there seemed to be a small green flicker out in the sky miles away. The boat captain noticed it and alerted everyone on board. Suddenly the boat filled with emotions and excitement. Everyone was intrigued, trying to get a glimpse of the little light flicker that gave us hope. 

Soon, the sky blew up with color!!! The small green flicker grew rapidly with bright greens and hints of purple. The boar erupted with cheers and amazement. It was hard not to get the chills and even tear up a little bit at the sight. Seeing the Northern Lights was beautiful on its own, but being immersed in the experience and environment that night is what made this the most beautiful place and moment to me.

We tried to capture the moment on our phones all the pictures turned out completely black. Luckily we had my GoPro with us and were able to set it to night mode and capture the moment. However, nothing can compare to being there that night. :)