From Iceland — Well You Asked: Hotdogs And Hot Air Baloons

Well You Asked: Hotdogs And Hot Air Baloons

Published April 26, 2019

Well You Asked: Hotdogs And Hot Air Baloons
Aliya Uteuova

Any tips on how to quickly determine if a familiar face in public (e.g. at the grocery store, pool, restaurant or on the street) is an actual acquaintance or just a famous person? I can’t count the number of times I nearly approached someone to say ‘hi’ only to realise that I only know them from politics or TV.

I used to stroll around the university waving at strangers thinking they were my friends. Then there were days when I ignored my friends’ eye-contact hellos. The honest reason for me is my poor vision, but perhaps you could borrow that excuse next time you bump into a local celebrity.

How do you become a hot air balloon pilot?
It is one of the toughest jobs to get into. The competition is super high, you wouldn’t believe how many proficient third wheelers there are. But if you have valid experience of staying stoic while a couple has their romantic moment three inches from you, you might have a chance.

How do you avoid former lovers in a city as small as Reykjavík? Do you stop going out or do you go full stalker?
Since Iceland is a big village, it’s probably impossible to avoid your ex. Embrace the uncomfortable hello or hide inside a puffin store, either way, you’re bound to have something to talk about with friends over some hotdogs. Just be sure to carry gum, you never know when you might want to kiss your next ex.

Support The Reykjavík Grapevine!
Buy subscriptions, t-shirts and more from our shop right here!

Show Me More!