Thoughts
The following section contains some thoughts that I believe anyone,
able-bodied or not, considering a trip to Iceland should ponder they may
seem obvious and perhaps a little over the top, but I feel they are
important.
Research and planning of the trip must be thorough.
The Internet is a good source of information and the Lonely Planet
Guide for Iceland, Greenland & the Faroe Islands was a wise
investment. I would recommend buying good up to date maps early on in
your preparations. I found that the 1:250 000 Landmealingar series were
ideal.
A feasible and realistic timescale is essential.
Travel in Iceland can be simple, if a little expensive in the summer
months, with relatively clear roads and many buses running to all points
of the compass. Flying could be an option and is only a little bit more
expensive than the bus, the smallest of settlements often have a landing
strip for light aircraft and there are even some in the interior.
However out of summer travel can be a considerably more difficult with
many roads closed due to snow and ice. You can check routes and
accessibility on the Internet (see reference section). It would be
prudent to think about the hours of light that are afforded in the
summer months, it is not a great problem and can be an advantage when
planning around weather conditions.
Selection and acquisition of equipment.
This depends greatly on your chosen activity and route. Take only
tried and tested kit, Iceland is not the kind of place you want to find
out a particular piece of essential gear doesn't work. The right
clothing is essential be prepared at any time for the rain and wind, in
the summer months temperatures near the glaciers can drop dramatically.
Cyclists need to be aware that the main bike shops are in Reykjavik and
Akuyrei so be prepared to carry plenty of spares and tools if venturing
into the interior. For major repairs the locals are more than happy to
help out if they can and Makid in Reykjavik offered to fly parts to me
if I needed them which was of great comfort. If cycling/camping
equipment can be hired but check out the Icelandic Mountain Bike Club
website (see reference section).
Food, water and accommodation.
Food can be quite expensive in Iceland both in restaurants and in
the supermarket. I took my own rations (left over from the Coppermine
Expedition) These were dried rations and very tasty, as rations go.
Because of this I was dependant on a water supply, this is not a problem
in Iceland there is a lot of it and it's generally bug free. There have
been very few cases of Giardia or any other waterborne bugs in Iceland,
but it is still a wise precaution to check up stream for dead things
like sheep etc before drawing water. There are a lot of rivers that are
silt laden, so to combat this I took a Katadyn filter pump and some old
(clean) stockings. Hotels are also expensive one cheap option is to use
the hostels on the island, I did not use any but I was reliably informed
that they are clean and tidy with plenty of room. Camping is the
cheapest option but take the right gear.
The Disabled Traveller
Accessibility in Iceland for people with disabilities is definitely
improving. In Reykjavik the roads and pavements are relatively good
compared with the rest of the island, some hotels have suitable
accommodation but they are few and are expensive. Toilet facilities for
the disabled (Icelanders use 'handicapped' still) can generally be found
at the touristy places but choose bars, clubs and restaurants wisely.
Outside Reykjavik things can get tough, campsites are basic I only came
across two with toilets suitable for wheelchairs I saw no evidence of
facilities for people with sensory disabilities. Having said all that,
Icelanders are helpful and sympathetic to the needs of people with
disabilities they will move heaven and earth to make life easier for
those that require help or advice they are the first to admit that there
is room for improvement in this particular area.
Have contingency plans and the flexibility to implement them if
you need to.
As I have already said, the situation, weather and terrain can
change dramatically. So be prepared to change tack or alter your daily
goals.
Prior training and mental preparation
This is essential if your trip involves physical activity, make sure
you and/or your party are physically fit and mentally orientated to the
task ahead. I found the gym is a good place to start and I also had
quite an extensive 1st Aid kit with me. This contained creams and
potions for those niggling muscular aches and pains that no amount of
training is going to fend off.
Above all enjoy the experience.
Iceland has a lot to offer both the casual tourist and the more
adventurous types. Take a good camera/video, for the many
film/photographic opportunities. Icelanders are wonderfully friendly
people they are more than happy to sit and chat and if you are in
difficulty they will help in any way they can. They are proud of their
country and culture and want to show it off to the visitor, so take full
advantage.
|