Deal of the Week: Escape To Iceland (1/25/2002)

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Diana: It's time to check out our deal of the week with our travel expert in residence, Rudy Maxa. What's on the menu today, Rudy?

Rudy: Menu is exactly the right term, Diana. I'm going to suggest a trip to one of the most interesting little countries in the world for some great eating. Here's a clue: It's the European country closest in distance to the United States.

Diana: Iceland.

Rudy: Exactly.

Diana: That's one happening place, isn't it?

Rudy: The capital, Reykjavik, is one non-stop party even in the winter. And, of course, one of the world's original low-fare airlines, Icelandic, calls it home.

Diana: Where does the food part come in?

Rudy: From Feb. 27th through March 2nd -- that's three nights -- there's going to be a food festival called "Iceland Naturally." Participants will be able to dine around at leading restaurants offering special menus starring Iceland's freshest fish. And in Iceland, I can assure you, the fish is FRESH.

Diana: So this is a great opportunity to eat healthy in a fun town?

Rudy: Oh, let's not forget March first, which is National Beer Day in Iceland.

Diana: Uh-oh.

Rudy: Icelanders often stay out 'til 6 in the morning, so you'll have no excuse to miss the Northern Lights. During the day, there's a long list of day-time events, like a visit to the moon-like landscape of the Blue Lagoon where you can paddle about in the hot waters while-maybe-snow falls. Or you can go snow mobiling across Iceland's largest glacier.

Diana: And what does all this cost?

Rudy: About $635 per person, based on double occupancy. Or add a single supplement of about $65 if you're traveling alone. That gets you airfare from the Baltimore/DC area, Boston or Minneapolis plus three nights in a good hotel and a daily Scandinavian breakfast, bus tickets around town and a gourmet dinner. You can add on more nights and more restaurants at special rates.

Diana: Now that sounds like a lot of fun for less than $650 for hotels, airfare and some food. And where do we find the details?

Rudy: Icelandair Holidays put this package together, and we'll put its phone number and a link to its Web site on our Web site.

Diana: Sounds like great fun -- we'll talk next week?

Rudy: It's a deal.