The author Brittany Vickers has come to a delightful realization: vacations in cold destinations can be just as enjoyable, if not more so, than those in traditionally warmer locales. This epiphany came during her solo journey to Reykjavik, Iceland, where she experienced the breathtaking beauty and unique charm of a winter getaway.

Traditionally, when planning vacations, many travelers, including Vickers, picture themselves basking under the sun, surrounded by palm trees and the gentle sound of ocean waves. They imagine swapping their morning coffee for refreshing pia coladas, and feeling the warm golden sand between their toes instead of the cold gray pavement. With over 20 countries visited, Vickers had always preferred warmer climates, often declining suggestions for colder destinations that would entail donning a coat and gloves.

Vickers's preconceived notions about cold vacations stemmed from her experiences living in Missouri, where harsh winters are common. For her, the thought of paying for travel to replicate such a chilly environment seemed less than appealing. Her assumption was that frigid temperatures would hinder her ability to enjoy her surroundings fully, leading her to dismiss any opportunities to explore destinations that required significant winter gear.

However, her trip to Iceland opened her eyes to a different perspective on winter travel. Upon arrival, she quickly donned a snowsuit as temperatures plunged below 20 degrees Fahrenheit and set off on her first adventure: chasing the mesmerizing northern lights. The aurora borealis, a spectacular natural phenomenon that lights up the night sky with vibrant colors, requires tourists to brave the cold for extended periods, eagerly awaiting the moment the lights appear.

Despite the biting wind, when fellow travelers joyfully exclaimed, "There they are!" the thrilling experience made the cold fade into the background. Vickers even removed her gloves, risking frostbitten fingers, to capture the breathtaking display with her camera, sharing in the excitement with others around her.

The following day was filled with exploration of Iceland's famous Golden Circle on a comprehensive tour. Vickers admired the striking landscapes, including the historic Thingvellir National Park and the thunderous Gullfoss Falls. Although the weather was harsh, with fierce winds and chilling temperatures, she found herself captivated by the stunning natural beauty, including spectacular glaciers and erupting geysers, leading her to reassess her previous avoidance of such cold-weather destinations.

Evenings in Iceland presented an opportunity for relaxation and rejuvenation. Typically, on vacation, Vickers would be on the go from dawn until dusk, striving to maximize her time under the sun. However, her Icelandic experience encouraged a more laid-back approach, with nights spent cozying up by the fire in her hotel room, allowing her to unwind and catch up on much-needed rest.

One of the highlights of her trip was a visit to the renowned Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa that attracts visitors from around the globe. Vickers braved the crisp air to enjoy the soothing waters, which are celebrated for their healing properties, enriched with natural minerals. The combination of the lagoon, sauna, and massage treatments provided her with a level of relaxation that far surpassed any spa experiences she had enjoyed on previous vacations.

Reflecting on her transformative journey, Vickers now finds herself eager to explore more cold destinations that she once dismissed. Her time in Reykjavik taught her that beauty, adventure, and relaxation can be discovered in any weather, inspiring her to embrace the chill and seek out new experiences in snowy settings. With snow-capped mountains and winter wonderlands now on her travel radar, she is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead, proving that sometimes, stepping out of ones comfort zone can lead to the most rewarding adventures.