Adventures in Iceland…Highlights of our Adventures by Disney Vacation

Do you know the difference between a vacation and a trip? While both involve time together away from the routines of life, a vacation is something where the entire family can relax. There is no cooking or cleaning, grocery store runs or point person to make sure everyone knows the schedule. And while a trip is still time well spent, someone is usually taking the lead on all the logistics and not able to fully check out. I’m always up for a getaway–trip or vacation, and this past summer, our family of four was able to experience the most epic experience with Adventures by Disney in Iceland and it truly checked all the boxes for us: authentic, immersive, and educational. I’m a travel planner by nature and am used to setting up all the details from where we stay, to what we experience, to where we were eating. I wondered what it would be like to just show up and have everything planned? It felt like a…you guessed it, a vacation!

Adventures By Disney Anticipation

Would you agree that having something to look forward to is half the fun of traveling? The feeling of anticipation is pretty wonderful and if you’re a Disney fan, you already know how well Disney is with building excitement. The buzz of our journey with Adventures by Disney began with a package arriving on our door step. Inside were sturdy backpacks, insulated water bottles, name tags and the Adventure handbook previewing all that was to be experienced during our time. We spent some time pre-trip talking about what we were going to experience in the days ahead. Hiking a glacier! Whale watching on a fjord! Rafting a glacier fed river! Soaking in a lagoon! It all sounded amazing. I’ll admit with the price tag and some of the unknowns, I didn’t know what to expect. Spoiler alert, our next adventure is already booked.

We arrived into the Reykjavik airport in the early hours of a June morning and our transfers were waiting to whisk us and our luggage away to our hotel. We tried to soak away the jet lag at the Sky Lagoon and then later that afternoon, met our adventure guides. As we talked more about the week ahead, their comment was, prepare to be spoiled and to never want to travel differently. I was intrigued to say the least.

Speaking of adventure guides, did you know that every Adventures by Disney trip provides two? From our first introduction, I could already tell how amazing ours were. So personable, organized, and knowledgeable. As one of our guides was a native Icelander, it was fascinating to learn more about their culture from someone who truly lives it. From the Icelanders belief in trolls and elves, to their history with turf house living, love of nature, their perspective on being resilient to change; the pride they have for their country and culture was palpable. During our meeting they covered general trip logistics, asked about any allergies or concerns and made sure we knew that their job for the next week was to ensure every wish and request of ours was met. They also emphasized how it was time to turn off any mode, other than vacation mode.

Our adventure guides ensured the flow of each day was seamless and brimming with excitement. Every morning when we loaded onto the bus, itineraries for the day were covered, along with a reminder to visit the bus snack boxes (replenished daily with locally inspired treats). We’d head out to the next awe-inspiring location and along the way, our guides would share another piece of important history or a fun fact of Icelandic culture. During one stop, we were able to visit a farm that was owned by our guides family and it felt very special and exclusive. As you can imagine, the guides are excellent with kids and are amazing storytellers for all ages. And the most wonderful part is, the stories are real and you left each day feeling like you were really starting to get an appreciation for the lore and mystique of Iceland.

Immersive, VIP Experiences

We packed so much into our week in Iceland that when I first saw the itinerary, I wondered if we would be exhausted (especially with the time change). Our experience really was the perfect mix of adventure and down time. Imagine showing up with a group of 30+ people and there is no waiting in long lines or confusion as to where to go. Plus, you don’t need to do a bunch of research beforehand as everything you need to know will be enthusiastically provided. No FOMO here! You can read more about our favorite adventures and experiences during our Iceland vacation here.

After chasing waterfalls or visiting a scene straight out of Game of Thrones, we’d step inside a charming restaurant and our tables were waiting for us. Two of our favorite dinners were at family owned restaurants and tucked away off the beaten path. One was right near the sea in a historic red house with the most delicious dinner inspired by authentic Icelandic cuisine. The other was in a converted cow shed, which may sound strange, but the entire atmosphere, right down to the menu and even the plates was just like the entire adventure: authentic, charming and immersive. If you’re worried about too much time with your group, don’t be. Plenty of time is built in for just your family to explore on your own and there are a few meals that aren’t included, giving you the opportunity to enjoy a quieter meal together.

In addition to your two designated Adventures By Disney guides, several of the excursions had specialized guides from around the world. We hiked a glacier with a woman from Poland, we rafted a river with guides from Mexico, Nepal and Switzerland, we learned about cod fishing from a fifth generation Icelander. One afternoon we visited a family who makes their living selling bread baked geothermally to local restaurants. On another morning, we toured the iconic turf houses and heard from native Icelanders the long winter stories, saw the sleeping quarters, touched the historic wooden dishes.

Disney Magic

Disney’s signature trademark is inspirational storytelling combined with exceptional service. Imagine playing out before your eyes your wish of traveling with your kids to a place where they are immersed into the culture, history and natural beauty of the area. And you’re living this week alongside other like-minded families. You wake up, enjoy breakfast, are whisked away to the next spectacular area, to experience the next incredible adventure. The only item on your to-do list is making sure you packed whatever you may need for the day. You visit with new friends. You listen to your local guide tell you a wonderful story. You watch your kids having the most special day. And then you wake up and do it all again. It’s the most wonderful vacation and the entire experience exceeds your expectations.

If you have worries about too much “Disney” on an Adventures by Disney experience, this vacation resembles nothing like visiting a theme park and you won’t have any interactions with Mickey Mouse or Cinderella. What you will experience is that quintessential Disney magic sprinkled throughout each day, choregraphed by guides with a deep connection to the area and a commitment to ensuring your vacation is remarkable. No spoilers here, but not everything you’ll experience is written on the itinerary. The unexpected surprises and subtle nods to Disney fans were just another experience to smile about.

What’s Included & Who Can Vacation with ABD?

So much is included in your Adventures By Disney Vacation including:

• VIP Privileges
• Two Adventure Guides
• Local Experts
• Airport Transfers & Luggage Services
• Upscale hotels
• Tour and admission fees
• Most meals and gratuities

Adventures by Disney vacations are for anyone over the age of five and are ideal for families, couples and solo travelers. Our experience with Adventures by Disney was truly remarkable, from the experiences we shared, the people we met, the natural beauty we saw. I don’t know who penned these words, but they summarized our Adventures by Disney experience beautifully: “Travel is the only thing you buy, that makes you richer”.

Are you ready to plan your trip to Iceland? Do you have questions on Adventures by Disney or other companies that I work with to make your vacation seamless with flights, transfers and all your favorite excursions bundled in? I am an Certified Travel Advisor and would love to work with you. Reach out to me at [email protected] or fill out a quote request here.