Pingdom Check
09/25/2014 | 12:00 AM

Surprise Icelandic stopover for shocked traveller

Icelandair today released a short film of a traveller getting the shock of her life as she was treated to a surprise, two-day stopover in Iceland. The two-minute film shows the visitor arriving at Keflavik airport for what she thinks is a short connection on the way to her final destination.

Instead she is greeted in arrivals with the most unbelievable welcome by a host of Icelanders ready to show her everything that the country has to offer. Stunned and excited, the passenger is then whisked off on their own bespoke itinerary tailored to her own passions.

The footage features Kat, a photographer from LA who is travelling to London, as she embarks on her own surprise journey around Iceland during which she reconnects with her love of food. Once she recovers from the shock of her welcome, Kat is taken on a gastronomical journey. From getting the chance to cook organic lamb and Icelandic rye bread in a geothermal hot spring at Frost and Funi in Hveragerdi, to picking crowberries and brambleberries in Reykjadalur to relaxing with a dip in the Secret Lagoon at Fludir to round off the day.

During her adventure, Kat comments that her experience has not only given her the gift of time but also the chance to reflect on what's important - to take every opportunity that is presented it to her and revel in every new experiences.

The release of the film highlights the unique Icelandair Stopover service from Icelandair, which, since the 1960s, has given transatlantic passengers the chance to explore a new destination as part of their trip, for up to seven days at no extra cost.

With a whole host of activities on offer, from a glacier hike, the Blue Lagoon, volcano tour to the northern lights, travellers can make sure they get the most out of every minute of their stopover. 

Flights from London to New York including three-night stopover accommodation in Iceland starting from just £673 means there has never been a better time to explore one of the most magical places on earth.