Travel

Seljavallalaug

Here’s a new addition to the European swimming pool agenda. And this one is not some fancy Parisian resort pool. In fact, it has to be the most remote (and cold) pool I’ve see so far.

Here’s how to find Seljavallalaug pool: From Reykjavík, Iceland, drive two-and-a-half-hours along the coast. Then park and hike 20 minutes past some glaciers, volcanoes, and a waterfall. 😮 Now jump in!

Once you get there, it’s free. In the summer, it might be “dyed a beautiful shade of green” due to algae, not unlike our own Barton Springs Pool here in Austin.

If I ever make it to Iceland, I’ll remember to bring my swim suit (and a really warm towel)!

Travel

Széchenyi thermal bath, Budapest

Szechenyi Baths in Budapest is now on my fantasy European pool/spa itinerary. Built in 1913, this pool is “the most visited and much praised attraction in Budapest: relaxing, fun, affordable and, at night, romantic.”

Apparently those Hungarians even like to hang out and play chess in the pool (when they’re not making out 🤷🏻‍♂️).

Travel

Puente Nuevo

The picture below features the Puente Nuevo, towering 390 feet over the Guadalevín River in Ronda, Spain. This is the “new” bridge, meaning it was completed in 1793. The old one was built in 1616. 🤷🏻‍♂️

I think it’s safe to say that Ronda is on the list if I ever get to Spain. 🤩

You may be wondering what that room in the middle of the bridge is for. Among other things, it has served as a prison and a torture chamber during the various civil wars and inquisitions in Spain. Apparently even the torture chambers are beautiful in Spain. 🤔