Did Iceland Television Capture the True Essence of Iceland?
In early 2023, Rick Steves’ Europe finally embarked on a long-delayed filming trip to Iceland for a two-part television special. The crew, including Rick Steves, producer Simon Griffith, cameraman Karel Bauer, and co-author Cameron Hewitt, aimed to showcase the country’s unique culture and breathtaking landscapes for their public television audience. The resulting show, “Rick Steves’ Iceland,” offers a comprehensive look at the island nation, from the bustling city of Reykjavik to the remote corners of the Ring Road. But Did Iceland Television truly capture the essence of Iceland?
The pre-production phase proved challenging, with Iceland’s booming tourism industry making it difficult to secure accommodations and filming permits. The team relied on the Icelandic motto “Þetta reddast” (“It’ll all work out”), and with the help of a local fixer, they managed to overcome logistical hurdles.
In Reykjavik, the crew captured the city’s vibrant spirit, highlighting its iconic landmarks, colorful street art, and unique architectural features like brightly painted corrugated iron cladding. They also explored the local culture, visiting a flea market, sampling traditional Icelandic cuisine (including fermented shark), and learning about the importance of community swimming pools fed by geothermal springs.
While the famous Blue Lagoon was initially on the itinerary, the team ultimately decided to focus on the more authentic experience of local pools, showcasing a less touristy side of Iceland. This decision reflects the show’s commitment to providing viewers with practical travel advice and highlighting genuine cultural experiences.
Venturing beyond Reykjavik, the team explored the iconic Golden Circle, capturing the geological wonders of Thingvellir National Park, the geothermal area of Geysir, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. A drone mishap at Gullfoss led to an unexpected adventure, reinforcing the Icelandic motto of “Þetta reddast” and highlighting the serendipitous nature of travel.
The team continued along the South Coast, capturing the beauty of Seljalandsfoss waterfall and the black-sand beach of Reynisfjara. They also ventured into the rugged interior of Thórsmörk, a glacial valley accessible only by Super Jeep. This off-road adventure showcased a more adventurous side of Iceland, highlighting the country’s diverse landscapes.
A day trip to the Westman Islands, a volcanic archipelago off the South Coast, provided an opportunity to explore the islands’ dramatic volcanic history, abundant birdlife (including puffins), and unique cultural traditions.
Following Rick’s departure, Cameron, Simon, and Karel embarked on a six-day journey along the Ring Road, circumnavigating the entire island. They documented stunning landscapes, charming villages, and unique cultural attractions, showcasing the diversity of Iceland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Their journey included a boat tour among icebergs in a glacier lagoon, a visit to the geothermal area of Mývatn, and an encounter with the vibrant town of Húsavík, known for its whale watching and connection to the Eurovision Song Contest. They also explored the Herring Era Museum in Siglufjörður, learning about the historical significance of the herring fishing industry in Iceland’s economic development.
As the crew wrapped up their filming, a volcanic eruption near Reykjavik provided a dramatic finale to their Icelandic adventure. While the eruption caused international concern, it served as a reminder of Iceland’s dynamic geology and the resilience of its people. The resulting “Rick Steves’ Iceland” television special offers a comprehensive and engaging portrayal of Iceland, capturing its natural beauty, cultural richness, and resilient spirit. Did Iceland television do justice to the country? By showcasing both the iconic and the lesser-known aspects of Iceland, the program provides viewers with a deeper understanding of this unique island nation.
