We are not new to hot spring bathing. Japan introduced us to onsens that we all loved as part of the culture. I learned that Iceland is famous for its hot springs as well and that it is a common thing for people to do--to go relax in a hot spring no matter how cold the weather is.
After much deliberation, we decided to skip the famous Blue Lagoon. It is quite amazing, and we do realize it, but we wanted to go somewhere more authentic (the Blue Lagoon is man made), not as crowded and less expensive. Since our whole family was going, it wasn't going to be romantic or anything and we weren't sure how long the kids would last and if it would be worth the hefty price. Also, we were supposed to go to the Blue Lagoon right after we got off the plane, which was on Sunday, the national holiday in Iceland and we were not looking forward to the crowds.
SO...instead we decided to go to the Secret Lagoon. It's not really secret, but it's not nearly as commercialized as the Blue Lagoon. It was also much closer to our house than the Blue Lagoon.
So in Iceland you DO wear a swimsuit (unlike in Japan where you go naked). It is coed. You also have to take a shower, without your swimsuit on BEFORE you get into the hot spring.
And then you put on your swimsuit and march outside.
Kind of looks desolate, right?:)
It was actually very nice and relaxing. The water was just perfect, with a few particularly hot spots.
I didn't put any sunblock on and was feeling the burn from the sun.
And that's all after feeling absolutely frozen that morning!
We spent almost two hours here.
Walking around a bit and then getting back into the water was the best feeling ever.
Feeling refreshed!
I am glad we took part in this very traditional time passing activity:) The kids always love these sort of things.
Lyana.
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