Andreas Tille
Despite the unattractive name, Reykjavík (capital of Iceland) turns out to be a fairly romantic city. Recently, I had my friend from across the ocean over for a visit here in Reykjavík. To be honest, I wanted him to be more than just my friend, so I did my best to find something fun and romantic to do everyday he was here. Here are some tips for you and your admired—they sure worked for me!
First of all, if you're on a budget, choose carefully what you want to spend money on. For example, you can stay at a low budget B&B or guesthouse but then treat yourselves with one special night at a fancy hotel at the end of the trip. Same goes for dining. You can go out for dinner once or twice and have a lovely meal (I recommend Restaurant Grillhúsið, Roadhouse, Tabasco's, and Prikið), but it's also romantic to stay in and cook something simple together and eat in bed over a movie. I'm not saying you shouldn't spend any money, but just think before you spend.
If you're into your travel companion, you probably want to admire his/her body, right? Preferably half naked. Reykjavík is not exactly a summer holiday spot with white sand beaches and warm waves, but there are at least eighteen nice, heated outdoor swimming pools with hot tubs and saunas within the capital area. If that's not enough, there are several hot springs in the nature close to the city and there's a chance you might be alone there...perfect if you "forgot" the bikini. Last but not least, there's The Blue Lagoon. Haven't heard of it? Google it. NOW! It's a big hot blue lake close to the city in the middle of a volcanic lava field (No, it's not molten lava...but still, pretty great!). You'll have to pay for admission, but it's definitely worth it.
Reykjavík's downtown isn't big, but it's full of life. Let the city surprise you. As soon as you hear live music streaming out from one of the pubs, pop in for a drink and give the band a listen. Who knows, maybe it's a soon-to-be famous musician, taking his/her first steps. That's how Björk and Of Monsters and Men started out.
As long as the weather stays fine, a walk to the old harbour, watching the boats, maybe even whale watching, are perfect ways to experience the city with your partner. But if the rain is pouring or there's a storm, just go out for a quick run in the mad weather and find shelter between houses, at a café, or where you're staying for the night. Spend the rest of the day keeping each other warm, wrapped up in a pile of blankets, enjoying the presence of your beloved. Nothing will disturb you while the winds blow.