Free This Summer

Stúdentablaðið/Unsplash

Translation: Julie Summers

A lot of people think you have to spend money to do fun things, but that’s simply not true. Here are 10 things you can do this summer without paying a single króna.

Head over to Elliðaárdalur, Ægisíða, Heiðmörk, or Öskjuhlíð, pop some headphones in, and take a walk. If you don’t want to go alone, take along a friend, family member, your dog, or your kid! If you live on or near campus, there’s a great trail by the Nordic House that’ll make you feel like you’re out in the countryside with a view of the city.

Instead of meeting your friends at a café, you can go to their place for coffee, invite them to your place, or meet for a picnic in a pretty location. You can make a sandwich and brew some coffee at home to take with you!

YouTube-gym: Instead of going to the gym, you can exercise at home. Use YouTube to find exercises you enjoy, like yoga or Pilates. You can also use apps with pre-made exercise routines or go out for a run.       

Go to Nauthólsvík beach.   

Go for a beach walk on the Seltjarnarnes peninsula. There aren’t just great walking trails, a lighthouse, and a beautiful view - you can also soak your feet in a hot pool. On your way out toward the lighthouse, there’s a small hot pool where you can sit and dip your toes in while enjoying the view.   

If you have kids, take them to the library. You can hang out there for hours, reading and looking at books and playing (quietly). Then you can stop by the city pond and say hello to the ducks.            

Movie night! Invite your friends over to watch a movie or binge watch your favorite show all day! Ask each person to bring something to share, like chips or candy, and you can provide the popcorn. You can do the same thing with your kids or family, and it costs next to nothing!           

Spend the day going through your closet, giving away things you don’t want any more, and organizing your room or apartment!