Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and has a large contrast of old (and I mean REALLY old) and new.  In fact, Reykjavik is also the Northern most capital city in the world.  Cool!

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I walked all over Reykjavik.  It's easy to maneuver (if you remember the closest bar to your hotel), and although I went in late January / early February, the cold was definitely not that bad.  I wore a pair of leggings under my blue jeans, a long sleeve knit top under my puffer vest and hooded jacket.  I wore socks and hiking boots.  There were times where I had to take off the jacket.  Just way too hot and I cannot attribute it to menopause!  I loved walking past all the coffee shops and retail business.  I did go down to the waterfront (slipping as I went). 

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Yes, I admit it, I slipped on a piece of ice and my camera went flying and broke.  Luckly, I brought back-up cameras.  It was just after 10 am when I began my walk.  After gathering my dignity and broken camera, I made it to the waterfront.  I took some gorgeous photos with my phone and marveled at how the landscaped changed with the daylight.   

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In Reykjavik, homes are either concrete or made with heavy corrugated tin.  The older homes are built of both while the newer apartments and buildings are concrete.  There is rarely any timber used because it is so scarce and the trees in this part of the world are weak.  Apparently long ago, the whole area was agriculture, but with settlements, the trees were used for ships, homes, etc.  Until nothing much is left.  Although, Iceland is currently planting more forests.  Good for them!

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I did notice that most new apartments have some sort of balcony.  Outdoor space is highly valued here.