Iceland is a volcanic island — it’s formed at the rift where the European and North American tectonic plates are pulling apart. That’s why there’s a chain of active volcanoes, hot springs, and steam vents like this cutting right through the center of the country.

Visitors come to Iceland hoping to see a volcanic eruption. But big, dramatic eruptions — that casual visitors can actually get up close to and see — are very rare.

But exploring this island does come with plenty of steamy serendipity. Like roadside attractions, bubbling mud holes gurgle with molten muck. Vents spew steam, and as the fog clears from your glasses, suddenly you’re interested in geology!

The entire island is shaped by lava from past eruptions. Dark, chunky lava rock blanketed by cushy moss covers much of Iceland’s surface, giving the countryside a desolate, almost lunar feel.

And the Icelanders have ingeniously harnessed their endless supply of green energy. Geothermal plants, in the middle of nowhere, are hard at work boring deep into the earth’s crust to tap into hot water. And pipelines carry that super-heated water through miles of countryside to heat and power Reykjavík and other communities.

Despite the chill, houses are toasty. In fact, you’ll notice many small windows propped open. Because that geothermal heat is so cheap, people don’t even bother turning down the radiator. They just crack the window.

The most enjoyable use for Iceland’s hot water is its thermal pools. And the most famous spa is 45 minutes outside Reykjavík: The Blue Lagoon.

Years ago, a geothermal plant began dumping its hot, mineral-rich wastewater into this lava landscape. Locals discovered it was a great place to take a dip. Developers then transformed it into a high-end spa. Today, Iceland’s top tourist attraction is close to the airport and a popular first or last stop for visitors.

The Blue Lagoon is a lavish spa, but it’s extremely touristy and you sure won’t meet many Icelanders here. But the good news? You have plenty of alternatives that are just as relaxing: the community thermal pools.

The Blue Lagoon is popular. But it’s expensive — about 10 times the cost of a pool like this. You can luxuriate in the Blue Lagoon, or you can soak with the locals in a neighborhood pool — the choice is yours. Today, I’m soakin’ local.

Fed by natural thermal springs, the main pool is bathwater-warm. Waterslides, cascades, and kids’ zones keep locals entertained. This is where Icelanders meet up after work to connect with friends and family. I can’t think of a better way to meet the locals.

And for the ultimate in relaxation, hundred-degree hot pots simmer nearby. Soaking together is a great equalizer. Student, truck driver, doctor, and tourist — everybody’s equal in the pool.