In faraway Iceland, there exists of revelry and reverence, where worshipping and embracing the best that nature has to offer is inevitable. In this icy land where the mist rises and seems to envelop the glorious rays of the sun, the mesmerizing and blindingly beautiful phenomenon called the aurora borealis can be viewed whether on foot, by car, on a boat, or on a luxurious yacht. Bright- green and tantalizing blue streaks of light illumine the sky and one can’t help but realize that it is only a supreme being that can bless the world with such an astounding creation. This special trip to Iceland was planned by dynamic and lovable architect couple Nikki and Jason Buensalido, together with Nikki’s best friend Patty Que Veloso and her family. Our group joined the bandwagon as soon as we learned about this sojourn. Embracing the sight of the so-called Northern Lights from the clouds as you are aboard the plane felt as though you could touch divinity. However, this announcement was just a prelude to what we would encounter. The pilot turned off the lights inside the plane as we all stared outside at the stark night sky at -5 degrees. However, the aurora borealis proved elusive at that moment. We joked, “My sister Jaqui is the real aurora because her real name is Jaqueline Aurora!” We had a hearty laugh on the Transavia airline. Our other rambunctious companions Dr. Marite Vergara and my ever gregarious best friend Büm Tenorio Jr. were deep in the arms of slumber, having experienced a very lengthy 32-hour flight from Manila. I have seen this fire streak in the sky above in Tromsø, Norway, but I was told Iceland is not just about the Northern Lights. There is much, much more than what the eyes can see and fathom.

It is a blessing to be able to experience such magnificence that reflects the omnipotence of the One above, for He is the One from which such dazzling beauty emanates. Savor the royalty and revelry of Reykjavik. It may be costly, but then again, travel is perhaps the only activity that, though you spend on it, makes you richer and wiser. Chase the aurora borealis and embrace this once-in-a- lifetime feat.