Above 63

The apartment was in great shape. Ordinarily it is a vacation rental so it was well set up to move in. I only needed to pick up a few quick items for the kitchen. And of course some food. I know I’m in Iceland because I have Skyr, herring, and smoked salmon in my refrigerator. I’ll let you know when I have the dried cod and fermented shark on hand.

I’m located on the Old West Side of the city. I’m around the corner from the North Atlantic and lots of useful stores and restaurants within walking distance. Shopping is always an experience when you travel. Often you know what you are looking for, but it might be called something else or it travels under a local name or brand. I’m quite lucky to live near some major stores where you can get the things you need on a day-day-basis. Most of the labels on products are in English and Icelandic. Although I knew that Skyr was the local yogurt, I didn’t know the word for “vanilla.” Some years ago that would be a panic moment–Google translate tells the word was “vanillu.” I probably didn’t need the high power tool. I’ve added some photos of the local grocery stores, department/home goods stores and pharmacies I’ve been to so far.

My kitchen shelves look good, and I will eat at home mostly, but I have a lot of great local choices but if I want to go out to eat. The Iceland food scene has become quite good and quite international. The whole city is filled with good restaurants–these are just a handful of the ones within a 5 minute walk from my apartment. As a Milwaukee boy I’m anxious to try the “Traditional Polish Food” place.

Ordinary life in Reykjavik looks good. Tomorrow I head over to the University to start work. So far so good.