Day 7-- Friday, February 28

Hi!
Today is our last day in Iceland! We started off the day with a relaxing morning - we were able to sleep in and play some card games before heading to lunch at a tasty restaurant. Now we are at the airport, waiting for our flight home. Throughout the trip, my favorite activity that we have done has been the snorkeling. We were able to see the Silfra Fissure where two tectonic plates meet along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, and the scenery was beautiful - especially since the water was so clear! One thing I have learned in Iceland is how eco-friendly the country is. The whole region is supplied with renewable energy from Geothermal Power Plants stationed along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, using groundwater and heat to create electricity and running water. I'm so happy that we were able to go to Iceland, and I'm sad the trip is ending!
- Eddy

Hi
Today is our last day in Iceland. I am waiting at the airport to board flight to New York where we will connect to SFO. My favorite activity this trip was dog sledding because we got to pet the dogs and the sledding was really fun. I learned that Iceland is very eco-friendly because they use Geothermal energy from the Earth. I am so happy that we decided to go to Iceland.
- Tess

Hi
To my dismay, today is our last day in Iceland. We are are currently waiting for the slightly delayed 6 hour flight to JFK. Although this is our last day in Iceland, I will remember our time here forever. From freezing my hands off while scuba diving in the Mid-Atlantic ridge, to freezing my hands off while trekking through Soljamajurkill (I have no idea how you spell that, and we have no wifi); funnily enough, freezing my hands off was the only thing consistently happening on this trip. All the things that I have learned from our charming guide, Ardis, are things that I will remember for the rest of my life. All though this may have been a "last minute adjustment" to our "Chinese immersion", it was one hundred percent worth it.
-Aziz

Hello!
Unfortunately, this is our last day in the beautiful country of Iceland! This morning, we had a nice breakfast in the hotel after a nice morning of sleeping in. We then finished packing and all hung out for a little while before departing for lunch. We were all very tired and sad to leave but lunch was delicious and a great pick-me-up. We then embarked on our last bus ride (which was very sad) to go to the airport. Getting through to our gate was incredibly easy and a great airport experience. Overall my favorite activity was either visiting the school where we made some friends and hiking on the glacier; all of the views were gorgeous. I learned about geothermal energy and it was so interesting to be in a different culture and hear a new and awesome language. I am so grateful for our tour guide, Ardis, who provided so many facts and amazing memories for all of us. I am overall extremely happy that we decided to reroute to Iceland:)
-Julia<3


Hi everyone!
Today is our last day in Iceland, which is so sad! I've really enjoyed all my time here. This trip is the coldest I've ever been, but it has been so much fun. In the morning, we were able to sleep in and have a relaxing morning. We're all very sad to leave, but I miss my home and family. We are at the airport right now waiting for our flight to JFK, which is slightly delayed. My favorite part of the trip has been all the sightseeing that we have done. We saw some beautiful waterfalls, and the scenery here is absolutely beautiful. Throughout the trip, my classmates and I have become a lot closer which is nice for all of us. I learned that Iceland has some of the best water available from every tap in the country. This trip has been one of the best experiences of my life, and I am sad that it's over!
- Saskia


Hey everyone!

Sadly, today is our last day in Iceland but we all enjoyed so much on this trip. This morning, we got to sleep in and have breakfast. Later, we all chilled and packed our luggage for the airport. We headed to lunch where I had a really good gluten free burger. It was sad saying bye to Iceland but we got on our flight to New York and relaxed on the plane for six hours. Overall, I had so much fun on this trip and the memories I made will always be remembered. I learned how iceland's geothermal power plants work and I saw the amazing scenery. I especially enjoyed bonding with my classmates and experiencing the beauty of the island first hand. I would love to go to Iceland again!-Tali 

Hello!
Unfortunately, today was our last day in Iceland. We started the day with a late start and a breakfast from the hotel, then hung out in our rooms, got onto a flight to New York, and we are about to head on the final leg of our journey, to San Francisco. This trip has been amazingly fun, especially as I've been wanting to go to Iceland for a while. One of my favorite experiences has to be dog sledding. The actual sledding was slow, but being able to play with the dogs before was great, and one of them either really liked sitting on me, or wanted to pee on me. The trip also helped me bond with all of my classmates who came, and I feel like I know everyone so much better now. Our tour guide, Ardis, was also extremely kind and said so many things that made us laugh, whether intentionally or not. All in all, this trip was a great experience, and I'm really sad to leave Iceland.
-Josh


Greetings,
Today was our last day in Iceland, and we didn't really do anything but it was still enjoyable. We woke up late, had breakfast and spent the rest of the morning chilling in our hotel room before leaving for lunch. I think we spent a good amount of time here and I feel ready to go back. To my dismay, we were unable to witness the aurora borealis. We almost got lost in the airport but we are at our gate and waiting for our flight back. My favorite activity was having a snowball fight at the playground near our small hotel in the middle of nowhere. It was very unusual for me to see nothing but snow and rocks for kilometers with a few small houses spread about. I also liked petting the dogs at the dog sledding area. Overall. this is an amazing place and I hope I can come back here with my family.
-Lohan

Hello,
Well this is it, were finally reaching the end of our trip, it's been fun we've had our share fun times and weird times. Today we started out as we always do, though some bit later in the the morning, and we just awaited the coming end to our trip in Iceland. One of my most interesting times in Iceland was snorkelling, it was very cold though the scenery was very interesting. Though at the end I recall a lot of screaming about numbness and pain. One thing I've learned in Iceland is how friendly all of the people are. For example, when we visited an Iceland school everyone was so nice and kind. Another person who was very kind was our tour guide Ardis, she helped us learn about the country, and she took us everywhere. All in all I really enjoyed the Iceland experience. - Jude

Last meal in Iceland

Our beloved tour guide/ driver, Ardis.

Bye, Iceland!

Day 6-- Thursday, February 27

Hi everyone!

Today was the sixth and second-to-last day of our trip! We had a fun day visiting a local school, the Blue Lagoon and doing some shopping!

We started the day at a elementary/middle school in Grindavik, Grunnskóli Grindavíkur. We visited two 8th Grade English classes and got the chance to ask students about their daily life in Icelandic school, differences between American life and Icelandic life, etc. It was quite interesting to see the similarities/comparisons, and we were surprised to discover that we shared more in common than we thought we would. Specifically, we both watched very similar TV Shows, Movies, YouTubers and listened to similar music.

Then, we adventured to the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa using naturally-heated groundwater to provide a relaxing, luxurious experience. It was snowing quite heavily, and there was a short walk from the bus to the spa, so we had to run through the pelting snow. When we finally got into the water, we were hit with a large wall of snow and hail, but it was still beautiful to see the blue water and the rising heat that created a fog over the water.

Tess and Julia enjoying some fruit smoothies!

The view from the Lagoon! It was very beautiful, with the steam rising and the blue water.

After the Blue Lagoon, we drove back to the hotel. Unfortunately, we got caught in rough traffic due to a car accident, which prolonged our trip to over an hour. Still, we were able to socialize and bond more with each other!

Next, we went to dinner at a fancy restaurant serving tasty food and drinks. We got a variety of items, ranging from salad to burgers and meat. It was a great experience and quite delicious!

Finally, we ended the day with a shopping adventure at a local Reykjavik mall. Although there were few American shops, we were still able to enjoy some ice cream and souvenir shopping!

After getting back to the hotel room, we did Face Masks and played games with each other. We're looking forward to a great night sleep before our return home tomorrow!

- Eddy

Day 5-- Wednesday, February 26

Hi everyone!

Today was a simple but exciting day. We started out by having some breakfast at the hotel. We got on the bus and started heading towards the main tourist attractions in Reykjavik including a small and pretty pond with some adorable ducks and geese and a few statues of the founding members of Iceland. We also checked out a beautiful snowy park with a house that has the parliament of Iceland living in it. Then we got back on the bus and headed towards the geothermal power plant. We were quite surprised because of the strong winds when we entered the building but once we got in, the building was actually quite nice and modern. Next, we learned about how geothermal plants work and how that specific one worked. We ended our trip at the geothermal power plant with a couple quick videos which gave us the visuals of the power plant worked. After that, we arrived at the place where we ate some really delicious lunch. It had many organic juices, wraps, and pizzas which were all really yummy. - Tali 

After lunch we drove straight to the dog sledding location in the middle of nowhere. When we arrived we could see tons of dogs running around or sitting. Before sledding we got a chance to pet and mingle with the dogs. Some were nice, some were mean, and some were very cold. After a little while we split into three groups and trudged over to our sleds. one person got to stand in the back, while three sat in the front, alternating every once in awhile. The guides all wore interesting onesies because today is a special holiday similar to Halloween. We got eight dogs to pull us and we were on our way. The scenery was flat white snow with equally white mountains in the blue sky background. The dogs were very stubborn and stopped for poop breaks often. we eventually got them to move by putting the dad in front to keep the discipline. It was very cold but also very enjoyable. After sledding we had a little down time in our rooms and after went to eat dinner. It was pretty good, and finished with a meringue and sorbet. Simply delectable. Tonight we are parting for the northern light seeing, and I greatly hope I can see it, because for me it is honestly what Iceland is all about. 

- Lohan

Note: We went out at 9 pm and came back around 11 pm, without seeing any northern light activity tonight. Well, we tried, and had fun time on the bus! - Mrs. Wong

Day 4-- Tuesday, February 25

你好! Today is our fourth day in Iceland! Today we had a ton of fun activities, including visiting waterfalls, snorkeling, and visiting the geyser. We started off the day visiting the Gullfoss waterfall, then progressed to a Geysir Geothermal Area, where Lohan needed the geyser to erupt three times before he got a photo. After, we headed to the Silfra Fissure, an area separating two tectonic plates. This fissure falls on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which we studied in Earth Science in 6^th Grade!

The waterfall was beautiful, and the water was a gorgeous turquoise with no hint of dirt to be seen! We were able to hike on top of the fall to see an aerial view, and it was even prettier from above! Then, we moved on to the geyser. The geyser was just as impressive, with a huge stream of water spouting from a small pool. For lunch, we had hamburgers and ice cream at Efstidalur farm, which was delicious. The restaurant doubled as a cow farm, so all of the food was fresh and tasty! Especially the ice cream J! After our meal, we went to Silfra Fissure, where we went snorkeling in the crystal clear water. Mrs. Wong, Tali, Tess, and Eddy really enjoyed the snorkeling trip, but the boys didn’t, and had to take a shortcut because the water was so cold. Aziz in particular, had a screaming fit when he returned to the bus. Julia and Saskia decided to sit this one out, but they served as our official cheerleaders and photographers. Afterwards, we went to our new hotel, the Fosshotel Baron, which was incredibly nice inside. We went down the street to a Chinese restaurant for dinner, and it was managed by a Chinese immigrant. The food was great, and everyone had a great time! Afterwards, we walked back to the hotel to hang out, play cards and get some rest for the next day. 再见！

-       Tess, Joshua, and Eddy

The Gullfoss waterfalls

Geysir Geothermal Area

Freshly made ice cream. So Yummy! 

Snorkeling at the Silfra Fissure

Day 3-- Monday, February 24

Hello everyone,

So far I've had a very fun time in Iceland, though the hail can be a little annoying at times. Today we went on a hike on a glacier. When we went, we put on harnesses, helmets, and crampons. Though we also got ice picks which weren't entirely necessary but I wasn't complaining about them, because I got to mine at the odd ice brick that would be on the glacier, and it someone helped as a walking stick. The walk itself was very tiring, because it took around 20 minutes to hike to the glacier itself, so I was very thankful to finally get to the top and rest, before we went down again. In the end it was a very tiring an interesting experience, and I'm glad I got to do it. - Jude

Hi everyone!
During the second half of the day, we went to see two waterfalls. They were called Skógafass and Seljalandsfoss. I don't think any of us could pronounce it, but at least we all tried! We climbed a giant set of stairs in order to get to the waterfall. It was not slippery at all, but we still took crampons to be safe. Once we got to the top, the view was breathtaking and completely worth the grueling walk. At the second waterfall, we enjoyed the view from the bottom because the trails had been closed off. Even from there, the waterfall was beautiful. We then traveled to the Black Sand Beach. It was great at first, but it started to hail very hard. The waves could be dangerous, so we all stood back and admired the ocean from a distance. We are about to head out and go on a Lava Tunnel tour to conclude our day. It has been very busy, but this day has been very fun! - Saskia

Note: We visited the lava tunnel at 9 pm for about an hour. In the tunnel we experienced the complete darkness and silence for a few minutes.  We were exhausted, but all agreed today was THE BEST so far! - Mrs. Wong

Ready for the glacier walk!

Into the unknown...

We made the 2.5-hr walk!

black sand beach

On top of the water falls

Lava Tunnel!

Day 2-- Sunday, February 23

Hi! Today was a long and thrilling day in Iceland consisting of wind, snow, and more wind. We started the day off exiting the airport to a freezing, dark, frozen land on our way to a nutritious, well balanced breakfast. After a moderately lengthy bus ride we arrived at the Bridge Between Two Continents. To sum up that experience, it was cold and tiring with wind blowing snow in our beautiful, red faces. Once we were back on the bus, resisting the urge to take a nap was a struggle. Our next stop was the Geothermal Spot which was identifiable by the strong smell of sulfur. It was a gorgeous view for the sun was rising while we were there. Loaded back onto the bus, we headed towards the scenic cliff side near the power plant. This was a stunning view of large crashing waves against the rocks and seeing natures true power. After all these fun and freezing activities, it was time for a warm, much needed lunch. Before dining, we stopped into a local grocery store and got to compare the Icelandic products to those we get back home. We had a great lunch of fresh fish and chips and interesting conversation. Our next adventure, the lava tunnel, was following a one hour bus ride upon which everyone took a well deserved nap. Groggy and out of sorts we were informed that our lava tunnel journey would be postponed until tomorrow. We set out to our final destination of the day, the hotel, and began relaxing. We all freshened up to reconvene and work on our 40 page Chinese journal/packet. We are now relaxing and chatting while waiting for dinner. After dinner we will all fall happily asleep in our cozy hotel rooms. You needn't fear for all of the students are having a great time! Hope you enjoy the pictures of our first day in Iceland. Bye!
- Julia, Aziz

Day 1-- Saturday, February 22

Right now I am at the Seattle airport waiting for the next flight. I just ate lunch (a hamburger w/o a bun) and now we are going check into our flight. The flight is going to be very long but hopefully I will be able to sleep. I am so excited to get to Iceland because we so many fun activities planned.
-Tess

Hii!!

We just landed in Seattle and are about to eat lunch. I ordered a burger with some fries and a milkshake :)! We've already done a lot of bonding, just at the airport and on the plane!! We played some card games, and chatted with each other. Tali and I have gotten started on our Mandarin Journals and we listened to Taylor Swift together!! After we got off the flight, Julia and I toured the airport together and scouted out the various Starbucks located throughout the airport :).We are all super excited for Iceland. It's going to be so much fun!! Now we have a 7 hour flight, after which we will start Day 1 of our adventures in Iceland. Better get some sleep on the plane! - Eddy

Greetings from Seattle,

 This morning was quite the frenzy. But, thankfully, everyone arrived and got to Seattle. I bought some food for the plane, and spent the time reading and drawing. All it will take is a seven hour flight to Iceland, and we will arrive. But, it will be morning, and we will have gotten no sleep. I just finished my ramen. Now we're just waiting for our flight. -Lohan

Hello everyone,

We have arrived in Seattle after a long 2 hour flight from San Francisco, which we then proceeded to walk to our gate. I bought some chicken tenders from Greedy Cow Burger, and I must say they were quite delectable. On the flight here, I mostly read and fiddled with my watch. Though on this next flight I must prepare myself for a longer journey, which will end with an arrival early in the morning. I hope I can sleep on the flight and I can't wait to see Iceland for myself! - Jude

At last, after what seemed like forever, we have just landed in Seattle. I've grown closer with some of my classmates. We now have a 7 our flight ahead. While this initially seemed quite daunting, it now feels more manageable due to my recent discovery of "Dream Water". It seems like just yesterday when we were planning on going to Shanghai. I cant wait to arrive at Iceland. -Aziz

Hi everyone!

We just landed in Seattle, and grabbed a quick lunch before we catch our next flight to Iceland! Everyone is super excited to land, and can't wait to start the activities there! We will be landing very early in the morning, so hopefully we can all get some sleep and be well rested for the next day. It is a 7 hour flight, but hopefully it will go by quickly if we all fall asleep. -Saskia

Hi!

We just finished our lunch in Seattle (I had a burger and fries that my dad would love) and are waiting to board for Iceland. I am not super excited about the longer flight but I hope it will go by fast. I am having fun so far and am looking forward to heading right into our activities. Our group has named our panda Stanley after Flat Stanley and we have already started vlogging and taking pictures to share later! Can't wait to see you soon;) - Julia

Hello!

This morning was a bit tiring and nerve racking but the plane flight was actually pretty relaxing and fun. We got to Seattle a bit late but we ate lunch, hung out, and got a few snacks. We are going to board the seven hour flight to Iceland pretty soon which will hopefully be a sleepful flight. Kind of nervous about the cold weather but I'm so excited otherwise. See you there!-Tali

Hi!

We just came off the plane from San Francisco to Seattle, and the flight wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I'm still not looking forward to the seven hour flight in a few minutes, though. Hopefully I can sleep enough to be able to hike a few hours after I get off that seven hour flight. Can't wait to get to Iceland! -Josh