If I had to choose a theme for our recent summer holiday, it would be “the power of nature.” We visited places that were vastly different from what we are used to and experienced fire, lava, sandstorms, and ocean tempests. Every destination served as a powerful reminder of our smallness and vulnerability in the face of Mother Nature’s might.

Iceland – Land of Fire and Ice

Charl’s dream of visiting Iceland came true this year. We love cruise holidays because they offer a carefree experience and the opportunity to explore many places without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking.

We set off from Rotterdam aboard a Holland America ship, heading towards Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital.

Our first stop was the beautiful town of Ålesund in Norway. We explored the breathtaking fjords of Iceland, which are lined with small fishing villages and surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Some areas even served as filming locations for the Game of Thrones TV series.

We had eagerly anticipated our visit to the Blue Lagoon, one of Iceland’s top attractions. However, just a few days before our arrival, a volcano near the lagoon erupted, forcing the spa to close due to lava flows that made the roads inaccessible. I closely followed the situation on social media and read about how authorities worked through the night to restore access to the attractions.

An Active Volcano

Our drive to the lagoon in a rental car was an experience. The landscape, shaped by an eruption over 800 years ago, was truly breathtaking. As we got closer, we could see where fresh lava had flowed over the roads. It resembled black mud. Authorities had constructed lava barriers and created new roads to allow traffic to pass through. Many people stopped along the way to take photos and capture drone videos. And yes, we saw the volcano erupting—from a safe distance, of course. It was unbelievable! In that moment, we felt so small in the presence of such an immense natural spectacle.

During our cruise, we crossed the Arctic Circle and experienced Iceland’s Midnight Sun, where daylight lasts nearly 24 hours in June. This unique daylight cycle is one of Iceland’s many wonders. In contrast, winter brings shorter days with only a few hours of sunlight, making it possible for visitors to see the Northern Lights, as the long nights allow the aurora to dance brightly in the sky. I hope I get the chance to witness that one day!

Geothermal Blue Lagoon

Fortunately, we were still able to visit the Blue Lagoon. This geothermal spa is truly unique; the warm, mineral-rich water has a soft blue hue and is known for its health benefits. The water originates from 2,000 meters deep underground and remains delightfully warm, averaging between 37°C and 40°C, regardless of the outside temperature.

The Blue Lagoon formed by accident when steam released by the geothermal power station at Svartsengi condensed on the surface. Initially, people thought that the water would seep into the lava fields. However, over time, sediment sealed the surface, allowing the lagoon to grow.

At the spa, there is a mask bar where you can choose from options like silica mud, algae, minerals, or even a lava scrub. After using these treatments, our skin felt silky smooth, and we were deeply relaxed—ready for our next adventure.

Sandstorm in La Goulette, Tunisia

La Goulette, a port town in Tunisia, immediately welcomed us with its warm and hospitable atmosphere. The markets were alive with vibrant spices, colourful fabrics, ceramics, and traditional crafts. The day we visited was extremely hot, and after exploring the old town and the bustling markets, we decided to return to the ship early for a refreshing swim.

Back in our cabin, I sensed a change in the air. I quickly brought our wet swimsuits in from the balcony—just in time! A sandstorm rolled in, turning the sky a deep orange. Unexpectedly, we heard a crash as the glass of the swimming pool shower broke. The wind swept items from the pool deck into the ocean. Our cabin was on the 11th floor, and one of the chairs even left a mark on our balcony’s wooden railing.

This kind of phenomenon isn’t a daily occurrence, but it is part of life in a region influenced by the Sahara Desert. For most locals, it is merely a temporary nuisance; for us, however, it was a frightening and unforgettable experience.

Ocean Storm and Wildfire in Marseille, France

As we approached the harbour in Marseille, I could feel the ship battling the elements. The sea’s white-capped, rough waves were like Cape Town’s South-Easter on a stormy day! The captain successfully docked the cruise ship with assistance from two dredgers, which helped keep the vessel steady throughout the day. Our short walk to the shuttle bus was difficult due to the strong wind.

Later that day, we noticed smoke rising in the distance. A small yellow aeroplane was scooping up water and flying towards a wildfire. Suddenly, all our phones began vibrating with an eerie sound. In red letters, we saw: Safety Warning. Everyone connected to the Marseille cell tower received this alert. The fire prevented some buses, filled with passengers on day excursions, from returning to the ship on time. Consequently, the cruise ship departed later than scheduled, but we were safe.

Gratitude and Humility

After every storm, every plume of smoke, every sandstorm, and every volcanic eruption, we began to see the world with new eyes. This holiday didn’t just amaze us with natural beauty – it revealed the incredible power of nature and how small we truly are in comparison.

We are grateful to be safely home again, with memories we will treasure forever, and a newfound respect for the forces of the Earth.

Regards

Emsia