Swanson School of Engineering

After an overnight flight with little to no sleep, we finally touched down in the land of fire and ice! Stepping outside, we were immediately struck by the crisp morning air. Though tired, excitement took over as we met our tour guide and made our way to the first stop, Reykjavik, to explore the heart of Iceland’s capital. Our guide led us on a walking tour from 7 AM to 10 AM, introducing us to some of Reykjavik’s most well-known landmarks. We started at Hallgrímskirkja Church, taking in its towering architecture before making our way down Rainbow Road. Along the way, we learned about the city’s history, stopping to admire different buildings and their unique stories, many coming from Norse Mythology. We also visited Harpa Concert Hall, where we took a moment to admire its stunning glass design before heading to lunch. After eating, we set out for the Hellisheiði Geothermal Power Plant, the largest one in Iceland. As we arrived, we noticed the sight of steam rising from the ground, a clear sign of the geothermal energy beneath us. Inside, we learned how Iceland harnesses this energy to power homes, businesses, and even parts of Reykjavik’s heating system. Hearing about the country’s commitment to sustainability and seeing the technology up close made us even more excited to dive deeper into Iceland’s approach to sustainable energy.  On the way to our hotel, we made a quick stop at a geothermal hot spring area near the Krauma Spa. These bubbling hot springs, naturally heated by underground volcanic activity, are a reminder of the intense geothermal forces beneath Iceland’s surface. The country is home to many such springs, some of which have been used for centuries for bathing and relaxation.  We finally arrived at our hotel, where we had time to settle in and refresh before gathering for a welcome dinner. The meal featured traditional Icelandic flavors, and a delicious dessert that was a sweet ending to a long but unforgettable first day. With so much more ahead, I can’t wait to see what adventure tomorrow brings!