Today was another early, long and cold day. But that is not to say it was bad. It was freaking EPIC!!!

We got up early, yet again. And was able to go down to breakfast, but take our time this time. We called for a cab to pick us up to bring us to the other hotel so we wouldn't have to walk with our big bag in the snow. Plus, it was just a cheap, five minute drive. We were able to store our bags at the hotel since our room wasn't ready yet. And we waited for our shuttle. It was about a 2 hour drive to the meeting point, where we had to switch vehicles. We were on a shuttle, but then had to switch to a SuperJeep that drove us on the Glacier. We both slept on the two hour shuttle ride.

We had just enough time to use the restroom and switch over the the SuperJeep. It was another 30 minute drive to our meeting point on the Glacier.

We were on Langjokull Glacier, which is Icelandic for "Long Glacier." It was very crisp, cool day, about 29 degrees, and windy. And I realize 29 degrees is not even that cold compared to some cold places, but we are Californians, ok? So yea, it was cold and windy, but WOW what a view. Once we got to the cabin, we got into our gear: Coveralls, face cover, helmet, goggles, and extra warm gloves. We then boarded the SuperJeep again and it was about a 5 minute drive to the snowmobiles.

We got a quick tutorial on how to drive the snowmobile, then got on them and headed to the ice cave, which was a 30 minute snowmobile drive. I drove it, and Jaime rode on the way back on the way there. I am not going to lie to you, it was STRESSFUL. It was windy, cold, and I felt like the damn thing was trying to tip over the whole time. We also had to stay in a straight line and follow the tracks, which was easier said than done. But, even so, it was still fun, and I felt pretty badass. Because, no we did not tip over.

When we got to the Ice Cave, it was just a small little opening that led to it, we had to walk down sideways because it was so slippery. I got these awesome boots for Jaime and I at REI back when we went to Zion earlier this year, and they work PERFECTLY! They are waterproof, have great traction, and super warm. They were pricey, but a very good investment. So anyways, no we did not slip.

The Ice Cave was slippery, but I suppose that goes without saying. They requested we keep our helmets on as there were icicles, and it was low, but we were able to take them off for some photos. It was actually warmer in the cave than outside of it, because it was so windy up above.

After our time in the cave, we got back out, back on the snowmobiles, and back to the cabin to return our gear. Jaime drove on the way back, and I gotta say, it was WAY more fun just riding on the back! After driving it, Jaime said he agreed. But, we are still glad we both got the change to drive it either way. Because let's face it. When else would we be on the second largest glacier in Iceland?

Heading back to the cabin in the SuperJeep, it slipped off the track, and our guide/driver (his name was Gumey) had to get out and dig us out to get us back. That was pretty crazy. But we were all good. After taking off our gear, we were surprised with cookies and hot chocolate in the next room. And it was by far the best hot chocolate of my life.

It was an amazing feeling to look around and see literally nothing but glacier and snow. We had no idea where the hell we were, just middle of nowhere in Iceland in the snow. We were a 2 hour shuttle drive, 30 minute SuperJeep drive, and even another 30 minute snowmobile drive from civilization. Really makes you feel small. But in an awesome way. Very humbling to experience nature in this way.

It was so windy towards the end, when we got back to the meeting point off the glacier, we could barely move the winds were so heavy. So heavy that when Jaime lifted up his leg to just simply walk, the wind blew it and threw him off balance! Our excursion eneded just in time to avoid the really heavy winds.

It was a long trip back to our hotel, and yes, we slept some more on the way. Tipping is not customary in Iceland and the prices include tip, and the excursion was pretty pricey. But our guide risked his life ensuring we knew what we were doing on the snowmobiles, keeping us safe in the cave, and keeping our Jeep from tipping over when it went off the path, we gave him a nice tip, and were the only people that did. But wow, did he deserve it, even if it was included in the price.

We got back to the hotel around 5pm. Talk about a freaking long day. But we met up with our tour group and were breifed on what is going to happen for the next few days. After the short meeting, we all went to dinner at a local Icelandic restaurant and got to know each other a little better. There were 8 people total, and 3 more supposed to come to make the total off 11 on our tour. Dinner was fun, and it was great to get to know everybody. Iceland is really pricey, so dinner was expensive, but both Jaime and I had delicious meals. I never know what I am going to get sometimes. The Vegetarian option, just said "Daily Vegetarian Dish" but no further information, so I kind of took a gamble. However, since most of the food is seafood, it is really my only option, but lucky for me it was great!

We are very excited for our Tour and what is to come!