Oh good point about the packets and flying. I have come across other re-usable ones that you can boil to "reset" or alternatively, pull a Holly and carry a hot water bottle. We didn't bring any cameras other than our phones, and no were not able to capture on those. The tour guide gave great instructions on how to capture on a standard DSLR camera, as well as capturing her own photos that she provided free to others on the tour Facebook page later. I was able to get our memories this way.

We were concerned about that happening too, but were very happy to discover zero residual smell on anything. We still washed our suits in the laundry well because they did retain a silica residue after, as did my skin and hair.

Right above the front door is a large stained glass. We didn't notice it until we went to see the church at night. That was when it was lit from inside and you could see all the colours.

My first concert was The Wiggles (not the kids show, but an adult comedy band) in Bordeaux France. I was given tickets and was barely able to keep up with the satirical lyrics of the group. Now a days I try to go to as many live events as I can in Toronto. There are so many small venues with great music for affordable ticket prices. Are there any destinations you can suggest with some great live music? First thought that comes to mind are Irish Pubs...

We recently took the underground from Heathrow to our hotel in London. Shy had us set up with a cute little hotel (Victoria Nadler) which was very conveniently located just steps from Buckingham Palace. It really couldn't have been easier to just pop on and off the underground, stroll down the street and even get to sight-see along our walk.

I love this! We got to see a few quirky re-used boxes while visiting and loved the idea of keeping the iconic phone booths useful with plants!

This church is beautiful both inside and out, in how simple the design is. I've never been in a church who's clean stone work made me feel so at peace and relaxed. Definitely worth a stop to go inside if you can.

GO! DO IT! Don't hesitate, just book it. This was one of the best parts of our recent trip to Iceland. We were there in late January, booked ahead the Premium package and bus to and from our hotel. This was not disappointing at all and worth every penny. The bus pick ups are easy and smooth, right from your hotel. Entry was easy (and premium package gets to skip the line!) Upon entering, you get into the largest hot tub you've ever seen. I expected a sulfur smell since it's all geothermal heated, but the only time I found the smell noticeable was when we would pass near the geothermal heating filter. Premium package affords you a robe (and you can swap it for a fresh one if yours gets wet), some flip flops to keep, two face masks and two alcoholic drinks (one in the tub, one at dinner). We found the pool to be very busy with other tourists when we first arrived, but if you float away from the main entrance there are endless little nooks to get a have some quiet and take some great photos. We also opted to have dinner at the Lava Restaurant. The food was the best food we had our entire trip - the appetizers are a little costly, but do not disappoint in flavour. The entire meal was only slightly more expensive than eating out in Reykjavik would have been, but significantly better quality food. Bonus, the view in this restaurant is otherworldly and feels like you're in a fish tank. We then went back in to the lagoon after dinner for a little more soak, our second mask, and found it to be the most peaceful experience. The whole spa was quieter, barely any people around, and the stars were amazing. I highly recommend staying long enough to experience nighttime if you can.

Thank you for the great suggestion! We booked a tour like you recommended and I am SO grateful we did. We were in Iceland in late January, and planned a combo tour where we went for an ATV ride (which was so fun!) and then hopped on a big comfy coach bus to head out to one of the national parks for a view of the lights. The bus stopped in a large field with zero light pollution to disrupt the view. I would highly recommend layering, layering, layering. And when you think you have enough layers, add some more. If I were to do this again, I would even pack some pocket warmers for my boots and hands - The lights don't just turn on once you arrive. You have to wait. We waited in the field, from about 8pm to about 1130pm before the first glimmers started to show up. This wouldn't be too bad except, January weather (even a gloriously clear night with no wind) was COLD when you stand still for so long. After all is said and done though, we had a fantastic view of some beautiful green fox tails blazing across the sky! This really isn't something you see every day, and definitely worth the time and cold.

I can vouch for the value of buying these types of tickets ahead of time. We recently returned from a few days in Paris (January - slow season). Upon Shy's recommendation we purchased our Eiffel Tower and Louvre tickets in advance. This came at the same cost as regular entry would have been, but with the commitment of what day and time (within an hour) we would be showing up. Even though we went in slow season, we were incredibly grateful to have these already in our hands when we got there. In both cases, the line to buy tickets on the spot must have had at least 80-100 people waiting to get in, whereas the line for those with pre-purchased tickets was at most 5 people. We basically walked right in to these cool places. Added bonus, because we were there in off season, it was rainy and we were able to get out of the rain immediately!

What would you recommend for optimal Northern Light viewings: renting a car and getting out of the city on our own adventure OR taking a tour?

I actually paused for a moment of disbelief that this was the same Mexico I've been to. Looks so chilly!

The Pyramid of the Sun looks amazing - despite the explosion comment, I'd love to go on my next trip to Mexico

TACOS! without a doubt, the most delicious thing to eat!

This sounds amazing. Are these hotels open year round?