Laugardalslaug

Reykjavik locals know to fend off the cold of Iceland in winter by enjoying geothermal baths, but you won’t catch them heading to the Blue Lagoon. Instead they’re going to the local pools, some of which have both indoor and outdoor pools for warming up or cooling off, depending on what you’re looking for. My visit to Laugardalslaug was idyllic: floating in a geothermal pool with friendly locals as darkness crept overhead and snow began to fall. Entrance to most local pool is under $10, so you can visit six days in a row for the price of one visit to the Blue Lagoon.  Plus now you have some extra krona for a second bag of candy on Saturday. Iceland’s signature drink is brennivin, literally translated to “burning wine.” Affectionately, it has earned the nickname “black death.” Think strong vodka with a schnapps-like twinge of caraway flavor and down the hatch it goes. It’s a must-try. Head to a distillery like 64° Reykjavik Distillery to enjoy the full experience. Brennivin is meant to be consumed as a shot, followed by a snack of hakarl: fermented shark. If shots aren’t your friend, savor one of the new Icelandic craft beers — a real treat since beer was illegal in Iceland until 1989.
The clothes you packed aren’t keeping you warm enough to endure Iceland in winter? Head to The National Museum of Iceland to try on some of their traditional winter garbs. The museum is conveniently located within walking distance from the downtown area of Reykjavik. It’s a gorgeous building and entirely heated and lit, serving as a haven from the cold and dark walk you took to get there. The museum’s permanent exhibition covers all things heritage and history about Iceland. It’s laid out in chronological order, starting with the ship medieval settlers used to cross the ocean to Iceland. It ends on the top floor in a recreated airport terminal representing Keflavik Airport. Along the way, you’ll see relics of old weapons, clothes, tools, and houses. Icelandic culture used to think the uvula, the dangly thing in the back of your throat, was a source of infection, so it was frequently removed. On display at the museum is the tool they used to use for the uvula removal procedure. It looks like something you should use to cut your dog’s nails. Don’t forget to try on traditional Icelandic clothing, and then text the pictures to your family. Your mom might respond with something like, “Do you have head lice now?”
For a museum experience like nothing you’ve ever seen before head to The Icelandic Phallological Museum. The museum is home to over 200 members. What’s your favorite animal? It’s probably in the museum. Sixteen whales, one polar bear, five arctic foxes, one dog, and one human specimen – all waiting for gawking eyes of those who enter. The gift shop makes for an authentic Iceland souvenir your friends are sure to appreciate. A nice tote bag, a magnet, or condoms with northern lights scenes are useful presents for anyone on your shopping list.
Swing by Hallgrimskirkja after the museum, the Lutheran church in the city center. Standing at 244-feet, it’s hard to miss. Check out the magnificent interior and make sure God knows you only went to the penis museum for science.