Reykjavik Iceland has our focus this issue. Sure, it's cold, sure it's covered in snow. But did you know it has a Blue Lagoon? This magical city is the capital of Iceland and it doesn't disappoint. Explore the wonders of this snowy winter wonderland.
The Snowy Magic of Reykjavik
By Birna Hronn Bjornsdottir
December is a magical month in Reykjavik Iceland. The average temperature hovers around zero degrees, not too cold, not too hot. The perfect conditions for adding a bit of snowy magic to the already enchanting old town of Reykjavík. During Iceland’s long winters its inhabitants do what they can to brighten their surroundings and lift their spirits. Never is it more obvious than during those few weeks leading up to Christmas.
Reykjavik is charming and welcoming on any given day but during the holiday season its inhabitants, store owners and the city itself put a lot of effort in creating a truly magical holiday experience. Around the holidays the beauty of winter is on full display with snow adorning the trees, holiday lights in almost every window, lamp-post and tree. Live music, mixed with the hustle and bustle of passers-by and Christmas songs chiming out of every store on Reykjavík’s main shopping street echo through the air. The brisk, fresh air, mixed with hints of hot chocolate and cinnamon is invigorating and the mood is festive.
Leavenworth, A Storybook Holiday
by Rhona Baron
Let’s just say you won’t find yourself in Kansas anymore this holiday season. On the other hand, you might think you’ve landed in an Oz-like fantasy when you arrive in Leavenworth. Leavenworth, Washington that is—a Bavarian themed village that Distractify recently listed as one of the thirty most beautiful small towns on the planet.
Vienna, The City of Music and Dreams
By Donovan Hall
The former center of the Hapsburg Empire and current capital of Austria, Vienna (or Wien as you’ll see it spelled in German) is a city rich in history, culture and beauty; but hardly ever talked about to the same extent as Paris, Barcelona or even Berlin. That gives this city an advantage though, because when you do finally make this central European metropolis, you’ll be able to approach the city without expectation, leaving you open to all the fun things it has to offer. There is much to explore and experience, especially for queer travelers. So let’s examine what exactly is so cool about this Central European city.