Words by Piper

Today we woke up early, groggy and tired from a long week and late last night in Reykjavik. We schlepped our bags into the vans, and headed to Vik (veek). We were all stoked on the sunny blue skies and ready to explore the outdoors. Caitlin knew of this natural gem in the mountains where a cold river meets a hot one. We climbed over mountains alongside bubbling geysirs and families of sheep until we reached the river.

A group of us trekked to the highest peak through dense mosses on off trail slopes to strip down and stand naked overlooking the valleys.

ProTip: The naked mountain experience is much better when howling and holldering is involved. “That man down there is just LOVING HIS LIFE RIGHT NOW… Oh my god, is that LEE?!” – yes, our only male professor saw us all completely naked. There’s just no room for shame of nudity in Iceland. We all ate lunch and lounged in the river which was as warm as any hot tub. Mosses and grass stretched over the edges, and babbling brooks flowed down over rocks. The bright sun made the whole river glisten as it flowed past us. The hike and hot river swim was the perfect end to an awesome academic week. Bonus Break Bonus is the mecca of cheap food, and has become a familiar haven for us. Going to Bonus is like a toy store for hungry university kids. Its almost like an adventure, scavenging for the cheapest deals, getting the untried Skyr* flavour, and deciphering Icelandic packaging is more satisfying than you’d think We loaded into the vans and trekked to Vik. Our quaint hostel was homey and boasted a gorgeous purple and pink sunset over the black sand beaches.

[photo] Skyr* super affordable, amazing thick yogurt which is so flavourful and full of protein- a group favourite.