Geologist, Helga Krístin, Explains Why Icelandic Landscapes Are Unique

All Things Iceland

This week I chatted with Icelandic Geology expert Helga Kristín Torfadóttir. She is currently pursuing her PhD in volcanology and petrology, with a focus on structures of magma chambers. Additionally, she is a glacier guide, a model and drives really big cars. What an awesome combination!

I came across Helga on Instagram, where her handle is @geology_with_helga and I was instantly stunned by her awesome photos, especially the one of her in a space suit, and her informative posts. I think she uses the platform well to make geology fun. I’ve learned a lot about geology in Iceland.

There have been times when I have also just watched her videos even when I wasn’t necessarily understanding everything but her passion for the topic made it interesting to watch. Plus, she is out in nature often, so you are getting to tag along with an expert as she is explaining how certain landscapes have been formed. I’m excited for the time when a volcano erupts here because she’ll be onsite giving us all the details. If you are on Instagram, I highly recommend following her.

Questions I Asked Helga about Icelandic Geology & More

1. What made you interested in studying Geology and volcanology?

2. Can you share some background information on the geology in Iceland and what makes it unique?

3. You are PhD candidate, what is the focus of your research and dissertation?

4. During your research and field study, have you ever found something that unexpected or surprising to you?

5. For people that are interested in seeing some of the country’s spectacular geology, where do you recommend that they visit?

6. Do you have a favorite place or places in Iceland that you like to go?

7. There have been many earthquakes and magma build up happening around different volcanoes around the country. While I know it is impossible to know when there will be another eruption, do you think one will happen soon? If so, which one or ones do you think are most likely to erupt?

8. You have an awesome Instagram account called Geology with Helga, where you teach about geology. You have awesome photos of you in an astronaut suit, which is awesome. I’m just curious about what the story is behind the astronaut suit?

9. Also, what inspired you to start an Instagram page about geology?

10. I saw in your Instagram stories that you recently trekked the famous Laugavegur trail with your boyfriend and adorable dog Móberg. I think the first or second night was quite intense because it became so cold where you were camping. Overall, it was a ton of fun to learn about the landscape as you were hiking. Is that something that you are normally thinking and talking about when you go on trips like that?
11. What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Join All Things Iceland on Patreon

Before I jump into the interview, I would like to give a shout out to Melton and Mark. They recently became members of the Ásgarður tier in the All Things Iceland community on Patreon. Each month, members in that tier get a shout-out on the podcast. They also get to take part in Live Group Chats with me and so much more.

Additionally, I have started doing Folklore Friday on Patreon, which means that I share a fascinating Icelandic folklore story each week. That content is available to all patrons in the community. If you want to join, check out patreon.com/allthingsiceland

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Thank you kindly for listening (and reading) and see you soon!