... in this amazingly warm body of water called the Blue Lagoon. Not precisely a natural wonder, as it has been improved upon considerably by people who charge admission. Not surprising in this age of the primary focus being the almighty krona. It was amazing, and well worth seeing, doing, and being there. Our trip planner obviously did her research, and made reservations for us to lunch here (delightful dining) then take a dip the pool.
Our reservations for the afternoon included the premium package: thick white terry bathrobes and thick absorbent towels. A place to change, then shower before you get in the pool, with instuctions to coat your hair with conditioner, so the naturally occurring chemicals in the water (silica) won't be absorbed. Shower shoes (flip flops) and your swim suit complete the outfit. I am sure you could go 'natural', but fortunately that was not the fashion on Saturday when we were there.
That water from a natural geothermal source below the surface of the earth was amazing. It was definitely not your grandpa's 'swimmin' hole', and much improved over what you would find in nature. Though the basin was carved out of lava rock, it was almost completely smooth on the bottom, having been surfaced with some man-made substance agreeable and kind to the tender feets of all who entered. I read someplace that the water would normally be near the boiling point as it emerges from the earth, so I assume there is a complicated recipe for having it almost perfect temp. for bath water when patrons enter.
After we ate so much we needed a nap, we put on swim togs and entered that deliciously comforting pool. With about two hundred other guests, all milling about in waist to shoulder deep steaming blue water. I found myself floating, and knew if I closed my eyes, I would soon be snoozing.Though there were probably two hundred people slowly treading around, moving through the mineral water from one side of the large enclosed area to the other, it was not crowded: I'd guess the watery space at least the size of four Olympic swimming pools. Vast enough, surrounded by rough hardened lava rock to easily hold even more bodies enjoying their mud facials.
Included in our price of admission was an adult beverage, so we slowly smoothly, nearly completely submerged, made our way across the large pool to the 'bar'. Standing in line with dozens of others, we ordered smoothies or juice. Languidly sipping our drinks, easing back across the vast expanse of steaming water, it was remarkably pleasant. Chilly in the air, but delightfully warm on the body.
No comments:
Post a Comment