While the Grimsvotn ash cloud has caused headaches for some, I can’t help but think it has created a secret happiness for others.  I am talking about those of you who were “trapped” in Reykjavik for the past few days.  The lady who mid-massage at the Laugar Spa called her boss in Copenhagen sobbing that you were “so upset about missing the Monday meeting”.  The group of guys from London singing football songs at 3 am on Tuesday morning on Laugavegur who were “forced to endure” another night in Reykjavik.

As if you weren’t lucky enough to be grounded in one of the coolest cities in the world, the Tourist Information Centre on Adalstraeti then offered you a free Reykjavik Welcome Card for your “misfortune”!  What would I do if I were in your shoes, Reykjavik Welcome Card in hand, smug grin on face, grounded by ash?  I’d make a splash!

Beyond getting you into the city’s best museums and free internet access at the Tourist Information Centre to email your SOS messages to loved ones, the Reykjavik Welcome Card provides free access to water in a variety of settings across the city.

First I would head to one of the seven, yes seven, thermal pools that you now have free access to visit.  They are open year-round and are as good for socialising as they are for swimming.  My favourite is the art deco Sundholl Reykjavikur which is cosy and also a bit creepy with its locker room maze.  A pool that will keep you cool and give you cred.  To indulge your inner Michael Phelps head to Laugardaslaug – it’s huge and you might even spot a local celeb.  Was that Bjork just doing a swan dive into the deep end?

If you are more of a beach person, the Welcome Card has you covered.  Simply hop on the Straeto City Bus, also now free to you, and head to the beach at Nautholl.  I know what you are thinking… a beach in Reykjavik?  It has to be seen to be believed.  While you’re there be sure to stop by the restaurant of the same name for fish soup.  Not free, but so worth it!

And finally, I would take advantage of your free ticket on the Videy Island ferry.  Videy Island is home to Videyjarstofa house, the John Lennon Imagine Peace Tower and A LOT of birds.  It’s nice for a walk and views of Mount Esja, but half of the fun is the cute ferry that takes you to the island.  Be on the lookout for puffins splashing down in the water and ask the captain about Yoko Ono.

It seems like Grimsvotn may be going quiet for now, which means many of you will have to stop splashing about shortly and return to reality.  But if you ever get marooned in Reykjavik again, you now know how to have an “ashtonishing” time on the cheap.