Discover Iceland
Two of our advisors, Kate Moore and Theresa Howard, recently journeyed through Iceland as part of an immersive educational experience hosted by Iceland Encounter, a valued member of the Avenue Two Alliance.
From dramatic landscapes and authentic cultural experiences to exceptional accommodations and insider discoveries, the trip offered a deeper understanding of what makes Iceland such an extraordinary destination. We invited Kate and Theresa to share their favorite moments, key takeaways, and firsthand insights from their journey.
A2: When considering this trip, what is the first thing your clients should know?
Theresa: Iceland is one of the most visually stunning places I’ve ever been, but I also think it’s important to explain what kind of trip it is, because it’s not for everyone in the same way Italy or a tropical beach destination might be.
A2: Meaning what exactly?
Theresa: Iceland is all about the landscape, and it is going to be an active trip.
Kate: Exactly. You are going there for waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, geothermal lagoons, and dramatic scenery. You are not going for ideal weather, late nights, beach relaxation, or traditional luxury.
A2: Weather: tell us more.
Theresa: Iceland is cinematic and untamed, and the wind, rain, and constant weather changes are all part of the experience. It almost makes the moments of sunshine feel even more exciting. At one point the sun came out and there were rainbows everywhere.
A2: We love that description. And now we must ask, packing and clothes. What was the most important thing you had with you?
Kate: Proper clothing is absolutely ESSENTIAL! Hot hands and good gloves – I bought smart wool gloves that were touch screen compatible and merino wool.
Theresa: I can attest that hot hands saved Kate! I would say for me having a portable charger helped the group collectively. The long days and lots of pictures drained people’s phones very quickly.
A2: What were your favorite experiences?
Kate: We both loved the glacier hiking. It didn’t feel touristy or physically difficult but still offered incredible views and the chance to do something truly unique to the destination. Your guide can also tailor the hike based on everyone’s comfort level.
Theresa: And I think it is important to incorporate something with the Icelandic horses – they are such a huge part of the culture and beautiful so visiting them or going for a ride is great.
A2: What was the food like on the trip?
Theresa: It was fresh, simple, and ingredient-focused: seafood, fresh bread and butter. You must try the fermented shark.
Kate: I actually think the fermented shark is best experienced from a distance, but I loved the history of it.
A2: What was the biggest surprise of the trip?
Kate: The ATV excursion with lunch in a cave was one of those experiences that just kept getting better. We felt completely remote and didn’t see anyone else as we drove over rocks and rivers before arriving at our lunch spot. It was very well executed in a way that felt effortless. There was nothing traditionally luxurious about the cave lunch — plastic plates and utensils, etc. — but the guide was hilarious and cooked meat over an open fire in front of you.
Theresa: Iceland Encounter’s guides added so much depth to the experience because they are true locals. Having them with us really helped bring the culture and destination to life.
