Culture, Coffee, and the 1011

One of many 1011's in Reykjavik

We arrived in Iceland just one week ago and have already experienced so much of the culture.  Everything is much smaller here - most of the cars are compact, the appliances look like they’ve been shrunk, the beverages are in skinnier bottles, and the coffee cups appear kid-sized.  In the U.S. everything is super-sized, as our consumer culture suggests that, “bigger is always better.” I was just unaware of how much larger everyday items are at home.   These size adjustments not only save space in the smaller living arrangements, but have an environmental impact as well.  The machines and appliances require much less power to operate, use smaller amounts of water or fuel, and the beverage containers require less raw materials to produce.    The city of Reykjavik is also very pedestrian friendly; lots of people are out riding their bikes, walking and riding scooters, which contributes to their environmental efforts.  Many of the businesses and shops in the city close around 6 or 7 pm regularly, besides the 24-hour grocery stores, the 1011 (a popular local convenience store chain), and some restaurants.  The 1011 would be comparable to a 7-11 in the United States, except it has a much fancier coffee maker.   We see one every few blocks and apparently their coffee is quite good, even from the convenience store.  I have not tried

The fabulous coffee maker at the 1011 -
best cappuccino EVER!

it because I do not drink coffee, but all of the Americans here, including Dr. Welter and Delor, say that it is exceptional.  I have no trouble believing that since the coffee machines in convenience stores and at the office seem to be fancy espresso machines.  They are quite large, but they grind the beans once you’ve made your drink selection, so it is freshly brewed for each person.  It appears that the Icelanders take their coffee quite seriously; it is a very integral part of their culture and social life.