The mountains are looming with green fields and sheep (many sheep) who seem to get everywhere. In the lava fields you understand why they used to think there were trolls over there and the glaciers are always impressive, although it is sad to see how fast they retreat because of climate change.

The Icelanders are just like the landscape they seem very distant but once you start talking they are very kind and welcoming. One example was the first bus driver I met.  He looked at me very grumpy when I hauled my loaded suitcase in the bus. But when I asked him if I was on the right bus, he took out his glasses and he expression melted. He even told me which way to walk from the bus stop.

Iceland is not a romantic country. The weather is treacherous and unpredictable. Like the Dutchman I am, I try to cycle everywhere and though I thought I was well prepared, I was not prepared for the strong winds and downpour that occur here. But the snow in September was a nice surprise.

Studying is not very different from studying in Eindhoven, although there are small differences. It may occur that I have only one week of lectures for one course or I might be away on field work for the whole weekend. However, this is a great opportunity to see more of Iceland. I learn a lot of new stuff, especially about how things work in Iceland. Which is, especially in the field of energy, quite different from the Netherlands.

It took me some time to get accustomed here, but now I have found my place. I have met a lot of nice people, and though alcohol is very expensive over here I already attended quite a few fun parties. And though I would not call Reykjavik a beautiful city, there are more than enough festivals and events worth checking out!