Planning to rent a car in Iceland? Learn how Iceland’s new road tax works, why it was introduced, how it affects tourists, and how you can save money on your rental. I’ll also explain why not all rental car companies charge the fee the same way and share my recommendations after living in Iceland for the past 10 years.

One of the biggest reasons I recommend renting a car in Iceland is the freedom it gives you.

Some of my favorite memories have come from pulling over at an unexpected waterfall, taking a detour because someone mentioned a hidden canyon, or completely changing my plans after seeing that the weather was better in another part of the country.

Those spontaneous moments are often the highlights of an Iceland trip.

That’s why, when Iceland introduced a new road fee at the beginning of 2026, I immediately started getting questions from members of the All Things Iceland community.

People wanted to know:

What exactly is Iceland’s new road tax?
Why did Iceland introduce the road tax fee?
Does it apply to tourists?
How much will it cost?
Should I still rent a car?
How to budget for Iceland’s new road tax fee
How can you save on a rental car in Iceland?

If you’ve been wondering the same thing, you’re definitely not alone.

In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about Iceland’s new road fee, including why it was introduced, how it works, how it affects tourists renting cars and camper vans, how different rental companies handle the fee, and some practical ways to save money while planning your Iceland road trip.

https://youtu.be/oqXebmLiA38

What Is Iceland’s New Road Tax?Although you’ll often hear people, including me, refer to it as Iceland’s new road tax, the official name is the kilometer fee, or kílómetragjald in Icelandic.

The fee officially came into effect on January 1, 2026, and it’s designed to help fund Iceland’s road infrastructure in a different way than before.

Under the standard government system, most passenger vehicles are charged 6.95 ISK per kilometer driven, although rates vary depending on the vehicle’s weight and classification.

Unlike a toll road where you stop to pay at a booth, this fee is based on the total number of kilometers a vehicle travels.

For Icelandic residents who own a vehicle, the fee is reported and paid according to government regulations.

For visitors, however, the process is much simpler because your rental company handles it for you.

That means you don’t have to register with the Icelandic government or report your mileage yourself. Instead, the rental company collects the fee as part of your rental agreement before paying it to the government.

This is where many travelers become confused because not every rental company chooses to pass that fee on in the same way.

I’ll cover that in detail a little later because understanding this difference can make budgeting your trip much easier.

Experience Tip: One thing I’ve noticed after helping thousands of travelers plan trips to Iceland is that most people assume every rental company calculates this fee exactly the same way. That’s actually not the case, and knowing the difference before you book can save you both money and uncertainty when you’re planning your budget.

Why Did Iceland Introduce the Kilometer Fee?Moving Away from Fuel TaxesAt first glance, it’s easy to assume that Iceland simply added another fee for travelers. But the reality is a bit more nuanced.

For many years, Iceland paid for a significant portion of its road maintenance through taxes on gasoline and diesel fuel. The idea was simple: the more you drove, the more fuel you purchased, and the more you contributed toward maintaining the country’s roads.

That system worked well when nearly every vehicle relied on fossil fuels. However, Iceland has seen a rapid increase in hybrid and fully electric vehicles over the past several years. Those vehicles still use the roads every day, but they purchase much less, or no, gasoline or diesel.

As a result, the government was collecting less revenue from fuel taxes while road maintenance costs continued to grow. The kilometer fee was introduced to create a funding system that applies more consistently across different types of vehicles, regardless of how they’re powered.

As with any major policy change, it has generated plenty of discussion within Iceland. Some residents feel the reduction in fuel taxes doesn’t fully offset the new kilometer fee, while others see it as a fairer way to fund the country’s road network.

For travelers, though, the most important takeaway is understanding how the fee works and how your rental company chooses to collect it, because that’s what will ultimately affect your budget.

Does the Kilometer Fee Apply to Tourists?Yes. Whether you’re visiting Iceland for a long Ring Road adventure, spending a week exploring the South Coast, or taking a short getaway around Reykjavík and the Golden Circle, this new fee applies to rental vehicles.

If you’re someone who loves taking scenic detours (and trust me, Iceland will tempt you to do exactly that), knowing how your rental company charges this fee can give you much more peace of mind.

How Rental Car Companies Charge Iceland’s New Road FeeSome Companies Charge by the KilometerThis is probably the pricing model most travelers expect. Some rental companies simply pass the government’s kilometer fee directly on to you. When you pick up your vehicle, the current odometer reading is recorded.

When you return it, the rental company calculates how many kilometers you’ve driven and charges the corresponding road fee. The benefit of this approach is that you’re paying for exactly the distance you traveled.

If you only plan to drive around Reykjavík for a couple of days, this could result in a relatively small road-fee charge. The downside is that your final cost isn’t always easy to predict.

If your plans change, which they often do in Iceland, you may end up driving much farther than you originally expected. Suddenly, that carefully planned travel budget starts to look a little different.

Other Companies Charge a Flat Daily Road FeeSome rental companies have chosen a different approach.vRather than charging based on every kilometer driven, they charge a fixed road fee for each rental day.

For example, Go Car Rental Iceland and Go Campers currently charge a mandatory road fee of €10.50 per rental day, regardless of your insurance coverage or how many kilometers you drive during your rental.

Personally, I really appreciate this pricing model. One of the first things I tell people planning an Iceland trip is to leave room for spontaneity.

Maybe you hear about a hidden hot spring from another traveler.

Maybe someone recommends an incredible canyon that wasn’t on your itinerary.

Maybe the weather forecast changes overnight, and you decide to spend the day exploring a completely different region.

Those things happen all the time here. With a flat daily fee, you’re free to make those decisions without wondering whether every extra kilometer is increasing your final bill.

Instead, you already know what the road-fee portion of your rental will cost before your trip even begins. For me, that kind of predictability is worth a lot.

Experience Tip: I’ve changed my itinerary countless times because of Iceland’s weather. It’s one of the best travel decisions you can make here. Having a predictable daily road fee means I can focus on enjoying the adventure instead of mentally calculating extra costs every time I decide to drive somewhere new.

The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in IcelandIf you’re still deciding which rental car is right for your trip, I’ve created a free Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland that goes far beyond the new kilometer fee.
Inside, I cover how to choose between a 2WD and a 4×4, Iceland-specific insurance recommendations, gravel roads versus F-roads, parking rules, winter driving tips, common mistakes to avoid, and much more. I recently updated it to include Iceland’s new kilometer fee, so you’ll have the latest information all in one place.

Click Here

Is Renting a Car Is Still One of the Best Ways to Explore Iceland?Absolutely. Even with this additional cost, I still believe renting a car is the best way to experience Iceland for most visitors.

One of the things I love most about living here is that Iceland constantly rewards curiosity. Some of the country’s most memorable places aren’t found on a typical itinerary. They’re discovered because you decided to stop at an overlook, follow a sign pointing toward a waterfall, or take a scenic detour after chatting with another traveler.

Having your own vehicle gives you that freedom. You’re not rushing to catch a tour bus, worrying about train schedules, or feeling like you have to leave somewhere just because everyone else is. Instead, you can experience Iceland at your own pace.

That’s something I think is incredibly valuable. Of course, the new kilometer fee does add another expense to your trip. But in the grand scheme of an Iceland vacation, I don’t think it’s a reason to avoid renting a car altogether.

Instead, it’s simply another cost to understand and plan for before you arrive.

Experience Tip: Some of my favorite days in Iceland have been the ones where I threw my original itinerary out the window because the weather was better somewhere else. That kind of flexibility is difficult to put a price on, and it’s one of the biggest reasons I continue recommending rental cars over guided tours for many travelers.

Budgeting for the Iceland’s New Road TaxNo matter which pricing model your rental company uses, my advice is simple: Plan for the road fee before you arrive.

Just like budgeting for fuel, parking, or accommodation, this is now another normal part of planning an Iceland road trip.

The good news is that once you’ve factored it into your budget, there really aren’t any surprises.

In fact, I think the bigger financial mistakes people make when renting a car in Iceland have nothing to do with the road fee at all.

Choosing the wrong type of vehicle.
Skipping important insurance coverage.
Driving roads that aren’t suitable for their rental.
Or underestimating Iceland’s weather.

Those are the kinds of mistakes that can cost hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.

Compared to those, understanding the road fee is actually one of the easier parts of planning your trip.

Below is a way that you can save money on your rental car in Iceland.

How to Save Money on a Rental Car in Iceland (Even With the New Road Fee)If you’re already planning to rent a car or camper van, there’s no reason not to take advantage of available discounts.

I’ve partnered with Go Car Rental Iceland and Go Campers because I’ve personally used both companies for years, and they’ve consistently provided excellent customer service and reliable vehicles for my adventures around Iceland.

When you book through my discount links, you’ll receive:

Go Car Rental Iceland* 7% off your rental * Free 4G WiFi (simply select it under the Extras section when booking)

Go Campers* 7% off your camper van rental * Free sleeping bag (select it in the Extras section)

The discounts are automatically applied when you book through my links and enter your rental dates, making them an easy way to offset part of Iceland’s new road fee while supporting All Things Iceland at no additional cost to you.

Continue Planning Your Iceland Road TripUnderstanding the new road fee is just one piece of the puzzle.

If you’re still deciding whether you need a 2WD or a 4×4, wondering which insurance is actually worth purchasing, or trying to understand Iceland’s gravel roads, F-roads, parking rules, and seasonal driving conditions, I’ve put everything together in my Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland.

It’s completely free, regularly updated, and designed to help you avoid the most common mistakes travelers make before they even arrive in Iceland.

Frequently Asked Questions About Iceland’s New Road Tax FeeCan tourists avoid Iceland’s road fee?No. If you’re renting a car or camper van in Iceland, the road fee is part of the cost of driving. The way it’s charged depends on your rental company, but it isn’t something visitors can opt out of.

Is it still worth renting a car in Iceland?Absolutely. Even with the introduction of the road fee, I still believe renting a car offers the greatest flexibility and allows you to experience parts of Iceland that many tour groups never visit.

Why do some rental companies charge a flat daily fee?Some companies have chosen to simplify the government’s kilometer fee by charging a predictable daily amount instead.

For example, Go Car Rental and Go Campers currently charge a mandatory road fee of €10.50 per rental day, regardless of how many kilometers you drive.

Is a flat daily fee better than paying per kilometer?It depends on your travel style. If you’re planning very little driving, paying per kilometer could potentially cost less.

However, if you’re planning a Ring Road trip or simply want the freedom to take spontaneous detours without thinking about every kilometer, many travelers, including me, appreciate the predictability of a fixed daily fee.

Random Fact About IcelandDid you know that Iceland’s famous Ring Road (Route 1) stretches approximately 1,322 kilometers (821 miles) around the entire island?

While many visitors dream of driving the complete Ring Road, some of the country’s most unforgettable experiences come from venturing beyond it. Scenic detours to places like the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Westfjords, the Westman Islands, or even into the remote Highlands often become the highlights of a trip. Snæfellsnes Peninsula Westfjords Westman Islands Highlands of Iceland

That’s one of the reasons I think it’s so important to understand how your rental company charges Iceland’s new road fee. If your itinerary changes—and trust me, it often does because of weather or unexpected discoveries—you’ll already know what to expect when it comes to your driving costs.

Icelandic Word of the DayOne of my favorite parts of the All Things Iceland podcast is sharing an Icelandic word or phrase at the end of each episode.

Today’s word is:

KílómetragjaldPronunciation: KEE-loh-meh-trah-gyald

The word is made up of two smaller Icelandic words:

Kílómetri = kilometer
Gjald = fee or charge

Put them together, and kílómetragjald literally means “kilometer fee.”

This is the official Icelandic term used to describe the country’s new distance-based road charge that came into effect in 2026.

So, if you happen to see news articles, government information, or conversations in Icelandic about the new road fee, you’ll likely come across the word kílómetragjald.

It’s a fun word to know—not just because it relates to this topic, but because it also gives you a little insight into how Icelandic words are often built by combining smaller words to create a very literal meaning.

Planning to rent a car in Iceland? Before you book, grab my free Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland. It includes everything you need to know about Iceland’s new kilometer fee, choosing the right rental car, insurance, F-roads, parking, winter driving, and more.

And if you’re ready to book your rental, don’t forget to use my 7% discount links for Go Car Rental Iceland (plus free 4G WiFi) or Go Campers (plus a free sleeping bag) to save money on your trip.

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After eight months of maternity leave in Iceland, I’m finally back to work. Looking back, I can honestly say that this experience has given me an entirely new appreciation for Iceland’s parental leave system.

Before becoming a mom, I had so many questions. Would I qualify since I own my own business? How would my payments be calculated? How much time would I actually get with Eva? And what would maternity leave even feel like?

In this episode/blog, I’m sharing both how parental leave works in Iceland and my personal experience navigating it as a first-time mom.

https://youtu.be/BzbZjLI2-xo

How Parental Leave Works in IcelandOne of the things I love most about Iceland’s parental leave system is that it’s designed for both parents.

Each parent is entitled to six months of parental leave, giving families a total of twelve months together. Parents also have the option to transfer up to six weeks of their leave to one another, while still encouraging both parents to spend meaningful time bonding with their child.

Another aspect I really appreciate is the flexibility. Parents can spread their leave out and use it until the child turns two years old.

In our family, I decided to take my leave all at once, while Halli took the first three months immediately after Eva was born. He still has additional leave remaining that he plans to use before she turns two.

For me, this flexibility is one of the strongest parts of Iceland’s system because every family’s needs are different.

My Experience Taking Leave as a Self-Employed Business OwnerOne of my biggest concerns before having Eva was whether I would qualify for parental leave since I own my own company.

Even though I’m the only employee at All Things Iceland, I still pay all of the required employer contributions, including payments into Iceland’s parental leave fund, known as the Fæðingarorlofssjóður.

One important difference for self-employed people is how parental leave payments are calculated.

Instead of looking at recent monthly wages like traditional employees, self-employed parents have their payments calculated using their average income from the previous tax year.

It was fascinating learning how that process worked, and thankfully everything went smoothly for me. Even so, it made me realize how important it is for self-employed people to understand these rules before planning parental leave.

Why I Chose Eight Months Instead of SixAlthough I technically had six months of paid leave, I decided to spread those payments across eight months.

That meant receiving smaller monthly payments while allowing me to stay home with Eva for longer.

For me, six months simply didn’t feel like enough.

Maybe it was because I wanted to experience more of Iceland’s brighter spring and summer months with her, or maybe I simply wasn’t ready to jump back into work.

Whatever the reason, I’m incredibly grateful that Iceland gave me the flexibility to make that decision.

Understanding the Parental Leave Payments in IcelandParental leave in Iceland isn’t intended to fully replace a person’s salary.

Instead, the goal is to provide financial support so parents can spend meaningful time with their child during those first months.

One thing that surprised me was seeing how taxes and pension contributions affected my monthly payments. While the payment calculations were straightforward, it reminded me that the advertised amount is before taxes are deducted.

Overall, though, I appreciated having financial support while focusing on recovery and motherhood.

Applying for Parental Leave in IcelandOne thing that pleasantly surprised me was how straightforward the application process was.

Everything is completed online through Ísland.is, making the system relatively simple to navigate. Since I work for myself, I also involved my accountant to make sure all of my paperwork was submitted correctly.

I decided to begin my maternity leave before Eva’s due date so I could prepare our home, finish work projects, and mentally transition into motherhood. Looking back, giving myself that extra time before she arrived was one of the best decisions I made.

What 8 Months of Maternity Leave Was Really LikeBefore Eva was born, I honestly had no idea what maternity leave would feel like. The beginning of my leave was a combination of overwhelming joy and genuine struggle.

After an emergency C-section, recovering physically while learning how to care for a newborn was incredibly challenging. I had also gained more than 60 pounds during pregnancy, so my body had a lot of healing to do.

One of the greatest blessings during those early months was having my mom come to Iceland to live with us for Eva’s first three months. She cooked, cleaned, did laundry, and helped care for all of us. Looking back, I don’t know what we would have done without her.

Having Halli home during those first months made an enormous difference as well. Those early weeks together as a family are memories I’ll always treasure.

Recovery doesn’t happen overnight. Learning how to become a parent doesn’t happen overnight either.

That’s why I believe parental leave is so incredibly valuable.

Returning to Work in Iceland After Eight Months of Maternity LeaveAlthough my maternity leave has officially ended, life certainly hasn’t returned to what it looked like before becoming a mom.

Eva is still home with me, and I’ve built a hybrid work schedule that allows me to continue running All Things Iceland while spending quality time with her.

A babysitter helps a few hours each day while I work from home, allowing me to continue creating videos, recording podcasts, consulting with travelers, and developing resources for people planning trips to Iceland.

Some days everything works beautifully. Other days, absolutely nothing goes according to plan.

I’ve learned that motherhood is constantly changing, and just when I think I’ve figured everything out, Eva reaches another milestone and we’re adapting all over again.

My Biggest TakeawayLooking back, these eight months went by much faster than I ever imagined.

Before becoming a mom, eight months sounded like a really long time. Now it feels like it passed in the blink of an eye.

I’m deeply grateful that Iceland gave me the opportunity to spend this time healing, bonding with Eva, and gradually finding my footing as a new parent.

No parental leave system is perfect, but I genuinely appreciate that Iceland recognizes the importance of giving families meaningful time together during such an important chapter of life.

Random Fact of the EpisodeDid you know that Iceland is consistently ranked among the world’s most family-friendly countries? UNICEF has recognized Iceland as one of the top countries for family-friendly policies thanks to its generous paid parental leave and support for working parents.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeFæðingarorlofssjóður (Parental Leave Fund)

This is the government fund that pays parental leave benefits in Iceland. As someone who owns my own business, my company contributes to this fund just like other employers do, which is why I was eligible for parental leave as a self-employed parent.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir aðhlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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Over the last decade of living in Iceland, I’ve taken numerous solo trips around the country, including several solo camper van adventures. My very first solo camper van trip was a two-week Ring Road journey in May 2022, and it taught me more than I ever expected.

I was excited, nervous, anxious, and completely ready to see what Iceland would feel like on my own.

Since then, I’ve helped countless travelers plan their Iceland adventures through private consultations, and I’ve noticed the same questions and concerns come up repeatedly for people considering solo camper van travel.

Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or simply looking for practical advice, these are 21 of my biggest lessons, mistakes, tips, and honest thoughts after years of exploring Iceland on my own.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVLaVg5G618

The 21 Tips I Share About Taking a Solo Camper Van Trip in Iceland1. Why a Heater Is Essential in an Iceland Camper Van 2. How to Keep Yourself and Your Belongings Safe 3. The Security Mistake Most Travelers Don’t Think About 4. Why Good Insurance Can Save You Thousands 5. Don’t Forget a Portable Charger 6. Learn a Few Icelandic Phrases Before You Go 7. Master the Art of Layering for Iceland’s Weather 8. Packing Cubes Are a Camper Van Game-Changer 9. Choosing the Right Camper Van Size 10. What Comes Included in Most Iceland Camper Vans 11. Surviving Middle-of-the-Night Bathroom Runs 12. Why Water Shoes Deserve a Spot in Your Bag 13. Bring Your Favorite Snacks From Home 14. Not All Iceland Campsites Are Created Equal 15. Visit Local Swimming Pools for Relaxation and Connection 16. Cooking in a Camper Van Is Better Than You Think 17. How to Avoid Expensive Speeding Tickets 18. Check Weather and Road Conditions Every Day 19. Exploring Iceland’s Highlands as a Solo Traveler 20. Where You Can (and Can’t) Camp in Iceland 21. Why Solo Travel in Iceland Is Truly Transformative

Resources for Planning Your Iceland Camper Van Trip* The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland * Iceland Discount Code Bundle – save loads while exploring Iceland * The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland * Private Iceland Trip Consultations

Rent a Camper Van with a HeaterEven during summer, Iceland can get surprisingly cold at night. A heater can make the difference between a miserable night and a comfortable one.

I personally use the Go Lite Camper from Go Campers, and I run the heater almost every trip, even in July and August. Since you’re traveling alone, you don’t have another person helping generate body heat inside the van, so staying warm becomes even more important.

Always Lock Your VanIceland is incredibly safe, but that doesn’t mean you should be careless.

Whenever I left my van, even for a quick bathroom run, I locked it. I also locked it while sleeping at night. Most thefts are avoidable by keeping valuables out of sight and securing your vehicle properly.

Protect Your Personal BelongingsWhile camper van break-ins are uncommon, pickpocketing can happen in busy tourist areas such as Reykjavík and popular Golden Circle attractions. It’s sad to say that pickpocketing has increased in recent years, so you have to be vigilant with securing your personal items in your backpacks or pockets.

Keep your bag zipped, valuables secure, and never leave important items visible. This doesn’t happen on a massive scale in Iceland but it is happening enough that I have to talk about it. As a solo travel, you don’t have anyone else to look out for you, which can make you an easier target.

Get the Best Insurance You Can AffordThis is one area where I recommend not cutting corners.

Sand and ash protection is especially important in Iceland. Strong winds can cause serious damage to vehicles, and repairs can become very expensive if you aren’t properly covered. While this does apply to everyone who rents a car or camper van in Iceland, I feel it is very important for solo traveling because you are bearing the full cost on your own if something happens to the vehicle. Better to be protected than to be surprised with a big bill later on for damage that was not covered.

Check what your credit card covers, but don’t assume it includes Iceland-specific risks.

Save Money on Your Iceland Camper Van RentalYou can use my discount link to save 7% on your camper van rental with Go Campers and receive a free sleeping bag.

I use their cars and campers when I travel around Iceland, and I’ve partnered with them for over 4 years now. The main reasons? Their customer service is amazing, and they have a wide range of vehicles to choose from.

When you click on my discount link (https://www.gocampers.is/?ref=allthingsiceland), choose the dates for your travel and the 7% discount will automatically be applied.

Choose a sleeping bag under the “extras” section, and the total price won’t increase.

And just so you know, using my link gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s one of the ways you’re supporting All Things Iceland and the content I create. Thank you in advance for that.

Bring a Portable ChargerYour phone becomes your camera, GPS, communication device, and safety tool while traveling.

A portable battery pack (power bank) has saved me numerous times when filming content or spending long days on trails. Plus, it is always necessary to have a charged device just in case you need to call for help, especially when traveling solo.

Here is an affordable power bank option.

Learn a Few Icelandic PhrasesEven simple phrases like:
Góðan daginn (Good day)
Takk fyrir (Thank you)

can create meaningful interactions with locals.

One of my favorite memories was chatting with a farmer in North Iceland who was genuinely excited that I was attempting to speak Icelandic. It certainly is not necessary to do this but a little goes a long way, in this instance. It was nice to be able to connect with Icelanders along the way, when I felt uop to socializing.

Learn How to Layer ProperlyIceland’s weather changes constantly. A proper layering system should include:
Moisture-wicking base layer
Insulating layer
Windproof and waterproof outer layer
Hiking pants
Sturdy boots

This helps you stay comfortable without overpacking. You can find all of the essentials to pack in my free Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland.

Use Packing CubesPacking cubes completely changed my camper van experience. Instead of digging through piles of clothes, everything stays organized and easy to find.

When you’re living in a small space, even on your own, organization matters. My trip felt much more enjoyable because I could easily find clothes when I needed to, so I could continue on my adventure.

These packing cubes are great!

Choose the Right Size Camper VanIn my opinion, the size of your camper van does matter. Just because you are one person, doesn’t mean that the smallest size is the most suitable.

I personally prefer a mid-sized camper van because it offers enough space to be comfortable while remaining easy to drive and park.

I absolutely loved the ability to convert the bed into a table is especially useful during bad weather. It is work to make the conversion but it is totally doable as a solo traveler.

Know What Equipment Comes with Your VanMany camper vans already come with many things you need. The Go Lite Camper that I frequently used and the other camper vans from Go Campers include:
Portable stove
Pots and pans
Plates and utensils
Electric cooler
Running water sink

Knowing what’s already included prevents unnecessary packing, and makes your solo traveling experience much easier.

Prepare for Cold Middle-of-the-Night Bathroom RunsThis might be the least glamorous part of camper van life. I dreaded getting out of the van in the middle of the night to use the bathroom but I couldn’t avoid it. For those who don’t know, summer in Iceland can mean a high of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The evenings are normally chillier, so I figured out a strategy that works for me when it comes to these late night bathroom runs.

Being warm and cozy inside your sleeping bag makes those late-night bathroom trips feel much harder.

My solution:

Park close to the bathroom
Keep shoes near the door
Have a sweater ready
Bring your keys and phone

I always locked my van when I left it, even in the middle of the night. Once, I got back in the van, I locked it again, because it made me feel secure knowing no one can get in the van while I slept.

Pack Water ShoesI learned this lesson the hard way. While visiting a hot spring in the Westfjords, I slipped and cut my toe. That was in the beginning of my first solo travel journey, and it sucked! It is not fun for that to happen, in general, but as a solo traveler, I was the only one there to take care of me. Yes, accidents can happen but some can be avoided. Bringing water shoes is added in protection from the elements, especially in natural hot springs.

Water shoes provide:

Better grip
Foot protection
Added safety at natural hot springs

They’re now a permanent part of my packing list.

Here are some water shoes that work well for Iceland.

Bring Your Favorite SnacksTravel fatigue is real. As a solo traveler, you are the only one making all of the decisions, cooking all the meals, doing the driving, and so on. Sometimes, you are too tired to make a full meal and if the weather is acting up, you might be in your van for a while.

Having familiar snacks helps when you’re tired, hungry, or simply don’t feel like making another decision.

Some of my favorites include:

Protein bars
Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
Instant meals – like Ramen
Trail mix

These were life savers during or after a long drive when I didn’t have the energy or time to cook a full meal.

Research Campsites in Iceland Before You GoNot all campsites are equal in Iceland.

Some offer:

Hot showers
Laundry facilities
Kitchens
Electricity
Amazing views

Others provide only the basics in Iceland, and the price can still be the same! I like to use tjalda.is to search for camp sites all over Iceland that have the amenities that I want. If I found one that suited my needs, like a shower and laundry facilities, I would look up the Google Reviews for the place to see what others have said about it.

Sometimes, I was willing to stay at a basic campsite because of its proximity to the attraction I was going to next, but I at least knew before I arrived that it was a basic campsite.

It’s also helpful to know that in summer, all campsites in Iceland are open, but during fall, winter, and spring

A little research ahead of time can significantly improve your trip, and help you manage expectations.

Use Local Swimming Pools to interact with IcelandersBecause almost every town, even really small ones, have a swimming pool in Iceland, there are over 100 of them to choose from.

They are fantastic places to:

Relax
Shower
Meet locals
Enjoy hot tubs and saunas

They’re also one of the most authentic Icelandic experiences you can have. Whether you feel like socializing or just having a relaxing soak, add some local swimming pools to your itinerary.

Cooking in Your Camper Van Is Surprisingly CozyOne of my favorite discoveries was how enjoyable it is to cook inside the camper van during rainy or very windy weather.

It’s comfortable, practical, and often much cheaper than eating out every day. Plus, in the Go Lite camper, there are vents in the ceiling and it is easy to open the doors for ventilation

Watch Your Speed or Potentially Bust Your BudgetIceland takes speeding seriously. Fines can be extremely expensive.

I’ve heard of travelers paying:

$500
or even over $900

As a solo traveler, those type of fines can completely bust your budget. Since that is totally avoidable, stick to the speed limits and enjoy the scenery instead.

Check Weather and Road Conditions DailyConditions can change dramatically across Iceland, even within the same day. I remember driving in an area with blue skies and a completely clear road to then encounter snow on the road and cloud coverage.

That all happened within an hour in East Iceland. Granted, I was driving higher up in elevation, but those conditions are entirely possible in Iceland. You can be prepared for them by checking the weather ahead of time.

My go-to resources before heading out for the day in Iceland are:

SafeTravel.is
Road.is
Be Careful When Exploring the Highlands SoloThe Highlands are incredible, but they require extra preparation. There are many places in the highlands that are not great for solo travel because the roads are intense due to deep river crossings.

If you’re new to Highland driving, a beginner-friendly area I highly recommend is Hveradalir geothermal area in the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range.

I have been there many times and it’s an incredibly beautiful place. The road can get a little rough but it doesn’t require a river crossing, which is a big relief for anyone traveling there.

Before going there, make sure your camper van is approved and insured for driving on F-roads.

Camp Only at Designated CampsitesWild camping with a camper van is not allowed in Iceland. Following the rules helps protect Iceland’s nature and avoids costly fines.

You must stay at an official campsites. I think this an especially positive law for solo travelers because you are at a spot where others are around in case you need help, it is safe, and there are facilities around for you to use.

As I mentioned in #14, not all campsites in Iceland are created equal, so please do your research on which campsite suits you before going there.

You normally do not need to pre-book a campsite. However, I highly recommend doing so, if you plan to camp during two occasions in Iceland.

The first is Versulnarmannahelgi (Shop Keeper’s weekend). It’s always the weekend that includes the first Monday in August. During that weekend, many Icelanders go camping around the country, so the popular campsites get booked up.

The second occasion is specific to 2026, which is the Total Solar Eclipse on August 12th. The prices for hotels and accommodations are thousands of dollars per night. Even camper van prices have increased for that week due to demand. It is worth booking campsites for at least the 11th and 12th.

Solo Travel in Iceland Is Truly TransformativeThis might be the most important lesson of all. Traveling alone gives you space to think, reflect, and experience Iceland at your own pace.

Some of my favorite memories are simply standing in nature, listening to the wind, watching the landscape, and appreciating the freedom that comes with solo travel. It’s not always comfortable, but it is incredibly rewarding.

Resources for Planning Your Iceland Camper Van TripIf you’re planning your own adventure around Iceland, these free resources can help:

Ultimate Iceland Packing ChecklistKnow exactly what to pack for every season.

Iceland Discount Code BundleSave money on:

Camper vans
Car rentals
Tours
Activities
Accommodations

Iceland Car Rental GuideLearn about:

Road signs
Driving rules
Insurance
Road conditions
Common mistakes visitors make

Need Personalized Help?I also offer a limited number of private trip consultations where I help travelers create an itinerary, choose the right route, and maximize their time in Iceland.

Happy travels, and I hope your solo Iceland adventure is as memorable as mine has been.

Random Fact of the EpiosdeDuring one of my camper van trips, I actually got stuck in the mud and had to get help getting out.

Thankfully, someone kind helped because rescue services in Iceland can sometimes cost close to $1,000 depending on the situation.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeHúsbíll – camper van

Hús means House in Icelandic and bíll means car, so it is literally a house car.

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What if your next trip to Iceland could do more than create unforgettable memories?

In this episode, I sit down with Anne Peters and geologist Johannes Marteinn from Katla UNESCO Global Geopark to explore one of the most fascinating experiences I’ve ever had in Iceland: science-backed expeditions where everyday travelers help collect real scientific data.

The best part? You don’t need any scientific experience. If you can hike, take photos, or learn to use simple equipment, you can contribute to research that’s helping scientists better understand Iceland’s rapidly changing landscapes.

In this episode* What “citizen science” really means * How anyone can participate in real scientific research in Iceland * My experience collecting glacier, dead ice, and coastline data * Why Katla Geopark is one of Iceland’s most geologically diverse regions * How scientists monitor glaciers, dead ice, and coastal erosion * What happens to the data after each expedition * Why these small-group adventures are designed with sustainability in mind

https://youtu.be/VxqVdGRYnak

Some surprising facts you’ll learn about Iceland Katla UNESCO Global Geopark covers nearly 10% of Iceland. * Parts of Iceland’s South Coast are eroding by an average of about five meters every year. * During one storm in 2022, scientists measured up to 100 meters (328 feet) of coastline disappearing* in a single event. * Participants receive reports, updates showing how their measurements contribute to ongoing research, and a certification of completion.

Save 10% on your own Citizen Scientist Expedition in IcelandIf you’d like to experience one of these science-backed expeditions yourself, you can save 10% by using my code JEWELLS when booking through Katla UNESCO Global Geopark.

Here is the expeditions – https://www.katlageopark.com/about-katla/research/science-driven-expeditions/

I genuinely loved taking part in these expeditions because I wasn’t just admiring Iceland’s incredible landscapes, I was helping researchers collect information that contributes to understanding how Iceland is changing. It completely transformed the way I think about travel, and I hope this conversation inspires you to experience Iceland in a whole new way as a citizen scientist.

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Learning Icelandic can honestly feel overwhelming. If you’ve ever tried to learn the language, you probably already know that there are a lot of scattered resources online, different classes, private tutors, apps, YouTube videos, grammar books, and random websites that may or may not help depending on your learning style. One of the questions I get asked the most is how to actually learn Icelandic and what resources are worthwhile.

Why I Wanted to Try Icelandic AIWhen I first heard about a program called Icelandic AI, I was really intrigued. Not because I thought it would magically make anyone fluent overnight, but because I was curious whether there was finally one platform that could bring many of these learning tools together in a more organized and comprehensive way.

Just for some context, I’ve been living in Iceland since 2016, so almost 10 years now. I’m at an intermediate level in Icelandic, and over the years I’ve taken multiple Icelandic classes, worked with private tutors, studied on my own, and I regularly speak Icelandic with my boyfriend and his family. So while I’m definitely not claiming to be fluent, I do feel like I have a good understanding of what makes a language-learning resource actually useful.

I also want to be transparent that I am collaborating with Icelandic AI in the sense that I reached out to them because I wanted access to the platform to test it out and share my thoughts with my audience. However, this is not a paid review, and I do not benefit financially if people sign up through the platform. I genuinely just wanted to see if this was a resource worth recommending because I know how difficult it can be to figure out where to even start with Icelandic.

First Impressions of the Icelandic AI PlatformOverall, I have to say that Icelandic AI is one of the more comprehensive Icelandic-learning platforms I’ve seen so far.

The platform was created by Sandra, and the “AI” part of the name is actually referring to her AI twin or clone. So instead of it being like ChatGPT or Claude where the AI is actively learning you and responding dynamically, it’s more that Sandra has created an AI version of herself that guides you through the lessons using her voice and likeness. There are also additional AI characters named Monica and Oscar who help throughout the platform as well.

At the time of recording this episode, I’ve completed about 55% of Level 1, which has already taken me around 49 hours, and I’ve also started Level 2. Even as someone who already has background knowledge in Icelandic, I’ve still found it useful as a review tool and as a way to reinforce concepts I’ve already learned.

One thing I also appreciate is that the platform doesn’t feel rushed or surface level. There’s a lot of depth built into it, and you can tell that a huge amount of work went into organizing the information in a structured way. It’s not just random vocabulary words thrown at you. There’s an actual progression to how concepts are introduced and built upon over time.

Now let’s get into the pros and cons.

The Pros of the Icelandic AI Learning Platform1. The platform is extremely comprehensiveAll of the core things you need to learn Icelandic are included: grammar, conjugation, sentence structure, pronunciation, vocabulary, and the four Icelandic cases. There is a lot of depth to the lessons.

It’s easy to access and flexibleYou can work through the lessons on your own time and from anywhere. Right now it works best on a computer, but they mentioned they are working on a mobile-friendly version as well.
It can potentially be reimbursed through Icelandic unionsIf you live and work in Iceland and are part of a union, there’s a possibility you can use your educational reimbursement funds toward the course because it has educational certification.
There’s a community sectionThe platform has a community tab where you can ask questions and interact with the Icelandic AI team, which is helpful when you need clarification.
There are pronunciation checksYou can record yourself speaking into your microphone and the platform gives feedback in the form of a percentage score from 0–100 based on pronunciation accuracy. I actually found this surprisingly useful.
The platform is visually engagingThe lessons are interactive, visually appealing, and easy to follow. There are a lot of graphics and clickable elements that make it feel more engaging than just staring at blocks of text.
The lessons are well organizedThe progression makes sense. You start with greetings and introductions, then move into present tense and foundational concepts before building into more advanced grammar and sentence structure.
There is a huge amount of materialHonestly, there is a lot in here. It can feel a little overwhelming at first, but in a good way. You’re definitely not going to run out of things to study anytime soon.
There are quizzes and flashcardsThe platform includes quizzes, review sections, and flashcards to help reinforce what you’ve learned.
You receive a certificate of completionAt the end of the levels, you receive a certificate showing you completed the coursework, which is a nice touch.

One thing I kept thinking while going through the lessons was that I really wish something like this had existed when I first started learning Icelandic years ago. Back then, I felt like I was constantly piecing together resources from all over the internet. This feels much more centralized and organized, which can make a huge difference for beginners who don’t even know where to start.

The Cons of the Icelandic AI Learning Platform1. It’s not conversational AIThis is probably the most important thing to understand going into the platform. The AI is not actively talking back and forth with you the way ChatGPT or Claude would. Sandra’s AI twin guides you through lessons, but it’s not a live conversational experience.

You still need conversation practice outside the platformIf your goal is becoming conversational, you’ll still need to practice speaking with real people outside of Icelandic AI, whether that’s friends, tutors, classmates, or language exchange partners.
The pronunciation feedback could be improvedWhile the pronunciation checker is helpful, I do wish it played back your voice or directly compared your pronunciation to a native speaker’s recording. I think that would make the feedback even more useful.
You need to be self-motivatedBecause this is self-paced, it requires discipline. Unlike in-person classes where there’s accountability and scheduled meetings, you have to consistently show up for yourself and stay committed.
Advanced learners may need to wait for more contentRight now the platform includes Levels 1 through 3, and I’ve heard more levels are coming. But if you’re already intermediate or advanced, you may move through the current material fairly quickly and have to wait for additional content.

My Overall ThoughtsI’ve genuinely enjoyed using Icelandic AI, and I plan to continue going through the lessons because I think it’s a really valuable review tool even at my current level.

At the same time, I still don’t believe there’s one perfect resource that can fully teach you Icelandic on its own. I think learning this language usually requires a combination of resources, consistency, practice, and patience. But as far as comprehensive platforms go, Icelandic AI is definitely one of the better ones I’ve personally seen.

I also think it’s important to remember that learning Icelandic is a long-term process. This is not an “I studied for two weeks and now I’m fluent” type of language. It takes repetition, exposure, practice, and patience. So having a resource that keeps everything organized and accessible in one place can genuinely be really helpful.

If you want to check it out for yourself, here is the link to Icelandic AI. As always, it’s completely up to you, but hopefully hearing my experience gives you a better idea of whether it might fit your learning style and goals.

Random Fact of the EpisodeOne random fact about the Icelandic language is that Icelandic has changed so little over time that modern Icelanders can still read the medieval Icelandic sagas written hundreds of years ago with relatively little difficulty.

Compared to English, which has changed dramatically over the centuries, Icelandic has remained incredibly well preserved, which is one of the reasons why the language is both fascinating and challenging to learn.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeThe Icelandic word of the episode is “Æfa sig”, which means “to practice.”

And honestly, I think that’s one of the biggest lessons when it comes to learning Icelandic. There’s no perfect app, no perfect teacher, and no perfect method. A lot of it really comes down to consistently practicing, even when the language feels difficult or awkward.

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I sat down with an inspiring Venezuelan-born entrepreneur, Valenttina Griffin, who has made Iceland her home. Through a lively conversation, Valenttina shares her experiences of navigating different cultures, thriving in the tech industry, and her entrepreneurial journey that spans multiple continents. Join us as we explore her insights on leadership, the power of community, and the importance of personal growth.

Valenttina’s Journey Across BordersValenttina’s journey began in Venezuela, where she enjoyed a tropical, sun-filled upbringing surrounded by strong women and positive role models. She fondly recalls the freedom of her childhood and notes the cultural contrast when she moved to Norway as an exchange student in the early 2000s. Her adventurous spirit and curiosity led her to embrace this transition. Learning the Norwegian language and culture opened doors for her, eventually helping her adapt quickly when she moved to Iceland.

https://youtu.be/O2q2l8V1bdU

Save 25% on Your Stay at Center Hotels in ReykjavíkThe sponsor of this episode is Center Hotels, a collection of nine stylish hotels located throughout downtown Reykjavík. Whether you want to stay close to the harbor, shopping streets, restaurants, nightlife, or some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, there’s a location that fits your travel style. I’ve partnered with Center Hotels to offer my audience an exclusive 25% discount when booking directly through their website using the code ATI25 at checkout. The code is valid through May 2026, making it a great opportunity to save on your stay while experiencing some of the most conveniently located hotels in Reykjavík.

Adapting to Icelandic CultureLife in Iceland was quite different. Valenttina immersed herself in the local culture, learned the Icelandic language, and embraced the insular lifestyle. She reflects on the warmth of Venezuelan interactions, marked by hugs and close personal contact, contrasting sharply with the reserved nature of Icelanders who value personal space. Yet, the support she received from the Icelandic community has been invaluable, helping her form a deep connection with her new home.

Women in Tech: Establishing a Supportive Network*As a woman in the tech industry, Valenttina shares her personal experiences and challenges in navigating a male-dominated field. She is part of Women Tech Iceland, an organization that provides a platform for women to feel safe and share their stories. Valenttina emphasizes the importance of recognition for women in tech and the need for creating role models for future generations. The group facilitates events that foster community support and networking opportunities, bridging the gap between Icelandic and foreign professionals.

Cultural Insights and Leadership ChallengesValenttina Griffin discusses the nuances of working in Icelandic companies and how she manages cultural differences. She has witnessed firsthand the challenges of integration for foreign women in the workforce, highlighting language as a significant barrier. Despite these challenges, she credits her success to the Icelandic language skills and cultural understanding, which have helped her build trust and rapport in leadership roles.

Valenttina’s Approach to Embracing Personal Growth and NeuroplasticityBeyond her professional achievements, Valenttina is passionate about neuroscience and neuroplasticity. She believes in the power of personal growth and continuously adapting to change. Her advice to women, and to anyone seeking growth, is to love themselves, set healthy boundaries, and not ignore red flags in personal or professional relationships. These principles guide her as she navigates her entrepreneurial journey and raises her family in Iceland.

Launching UGrow: Revolutionizing the Service Industry in IcelandValenttina’s latest venture, UGrow, focuses on optimizing recruitment processes within the Icelandic service industry. This initiative aims to streamline seasonal hiring, ensuring that both employees and employers are well-matched and meet legal standards. By doing so, Valenttina hopes to improve the experience for foreign workers and support the thriving tourism sector in Iceland.

A Vision for a Diverse and Welcoming IcelandThrough her work with Women Tech Iceland and You Grow, Valenttina is helping shape a more inclusive and diverse Iceland. She envisions a future where international talent is integrated seamlessly into Icelandic society and where everyone is encouraged to embrace change and growth. This conversation is not only a testament to Valenttina’s strength and adaptability but also an inspiration for anyone looking to explore new horizons and make a difference in their communities.

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Along with hearing about volcanoes, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and gorgeous landscapes, one of the biggest things people associate with Iceland is how expensive it is. And honestly, that conversation comes up constantly. It’s one of the most common questions when I am helping travelers planning their first trip here.

Iceland has built a reputation online for being adventurous and fascinating, but also very expensive. And to be fair, it absolutely can be. Publications like Travel + Leisure have even ranked Iceland among the most expensive travel destinations in the world.

From my perspective as someone who has lived in Iceland since 2016 and helped thousands of travelers through my podcast, social media channels, private consultations, and my in-depth video course, The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland, what stands out to me is this: most people don’t create a realistic budget for Iceland.

Inside This 5-Day Iceland Budget Guide* Knowing where to start with Budgeting for 5-days in Iceland * Why the Season You Visit Changes Your Entire Budget * What Kind of Iceland Experience Do You Want? * Flights to Iceland * Accommodations: The Biggest Budget Variable * Rental Cars & Iceland’s New Road Tax * How to Save on Renting a Car and Camper Van in Iceland * The Hidden Iceland Expense Most Travelers Forget: Parking Fees * Food Costs in Iceland * Activities & Tours: What to Expect * Use Discount Codes Strategically to Save Money * Unexpected Costs * Realistic 5-Day Iceland Budgets by Season + Winter Budget Breakdown + Shoulder Season Budget Breakdown + Summer Budget Breakdown

Knowing Where to Start with Budgeting a 5-day Trip for IcelandI think that people don’t always create a realistic budget for Iceland because they don’t know where to start. Travelers are often unsure about how much to set aside for accommodations, activities, rental cars, food, parking, or even how much the season changes everything.

So instead of just throwing random numbers at you, I want to walk you through how I would personally budget for a 5-day trip to Iceland depending on your travel style, the season, and the choices you make while you’re here.

Because the reality is that a 5-day trip to Iceland could cost one person around $1,300 and another person over $4,000 — and both of them could still have incredible experiences.

The Season You Visit Iceland Changes EverythingIf there’s one thing I really want travelers to understand before budgeting for Iceland, it’s this: the season you visit impacts almost every single part of your trip.

That includes accommodations, rental cars, flights, activities, and even how you spend your time while traveling. I’m honestly not exaggerating when I say that the exact same hotel room can literally double or triple in price depending on the month.

For example, a hotel room that costs around $120 per night in winter can easily jump to $250–350 per night in summer. Same room. Same location. Same hotel. The only thing that changed is the season.

Now, I don’t say that to scare anyone. There are also unique events that can create unusually high prices, like the 2026 total solar eclipse in Iceland, where some accommodations are charging thousands of dollars per night because demand is so intense. That’s not the normal reality for Iceland travel, but it does show how much seasonality and demand affect pricing here.

Rental cars work exactly the same way. In summer, demand skyrockets, and travelers are often shocked by how quickly prices increase if they wait too long to book.

What Kind of Iceland Experience Do You Want?Another huge part of budgeting for Iceland is understanding the type of trip you actually want to have.

I think social media sometimes makes this harder because people see inspiration online and accidentally start comparing their budget to someone else’s completely different trip.

Maybe you want to see the Northern Lights, but you’re planning to come in summer, which, by the way, isn’t possible because the sun barely sets. Maybe you want to base yourself in Reykjavík and do day trips, or maybe you want to road trip around the country and stay in multiple places. Perhaps you want to rent a camper van or stay in luxury hotels for part of the trip because you’re celebrating something special.

All of those decisions affect your budget.

One thing I regularly help people understand during my private video consultations is that Iceland often looks much smaller on the map than it actually is once you start driving around it.

For example, if someone wants to stay in Reykjavík the whole trip but also drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, I explain that this is about a five-hour drive one way. That’s ten hours of driving in a single day before you even stop at waterfalls, black sand beaches, or anywhere else along the route.

That’s why route planning matters so much in Iceland, not only for your sanity but also for your budget.

Flights to Iceland – Cost per SeasonFlights to Iceland fluctuate constantly depending on the season, where you’re flying from, how early you book, and global fuel prices.

For winter, flights are often around $400–700 roundtrip, while summer flights can range from $600–1,200 or even higher.

And honestly, airfare pricing lately has become even harder to predict because of global fuel market instability and international conflicts affecting energy prices. Those things trickle into airline pricing too, so whenever I give ranges for Iceland travel costs, I always want people to understand that these numbers are based on averages and trends, not guarantees.

One thing I personally recommend is signing up for airline email lists, like Icelandair or Delta Air Lines, because they regularly send flight sales. I also use Google Flights to track pricing trends, and you’d honestly be surprised how much prices can fluctuate from one week to another.

Accommodations in Iceland: The Biggest Budget VariableAccommodation is usually where people underestimate costs the most.

For budget accommodations like hostels, guesthouses, smaller rooms, or shared bathroom situations, you’re generally looking at around $400–700 total for five nights in winter and about $700–1,400+ in summer.

For mid-range accommodations, such as private hotel rooms, apartments, or guesthouses with private bathrooms, winter pricing is usually somewhere around $700–1,400 for five nights, while summer can jump to $1,200–2,000+.

And yes, summer pricing really can get that high.

If you’re considering a camper van, that can sometimes help reduce accommodation costs, though prices vary dramatically depending on the vehicle and the season.

I always recommend booking accommodations as early as possible for summer travel. Honestly, if you can plan a year in advance, that’s ideal. Six months minimum is usually what I suggest if possible.

Rental Cars Cost & Iceland’s New Road TaxIf you’re planning to leave Reykjavík, I strongly recommend considering a rental car because it gives you so much flexibility.

Winter rental prices for a smaller car are often around $120–150 per day, while SUVs are closer to $170–180 per day. In summer, smaller cars can easily be $150–200+, and SUVs can go even higher depending on the size and capability of the vehicle.

For a five-day trip, many travelers spend somewhere between $600–1,200+ once you include gas and insurance.

And there’s another thing travelers now need to budget for.

Starting in 2026, Iceland implemented a kilometer-based road tax system that applies to vehicles, including rental cars. Iceland Kilometer Fee Information

Most travelers won’t calculate this themselves because rental companies typically include it either as a per-kilometer fee or as a flat daily charge.

For example, Go Car Rental Iceland currently charges approximately €10.50 per day as a flat mandatory road tax fee.

Fuel prices in Iceland have lowered somewhat since the road tax was introduced, but global events still impact fuel pricing significantly.

How to Save on Renting a Car & Camper Van in IcelandThrough my discount links with Go Car Rental Iceland and Go Campers, you can save 7% on your rental. Go Car also includes free 4G WiFi, while Go Campers includes a free sleeping bag.

And honestly, the WiFi is incredibly useful because you can check weather, road conditions, maps, email, WhatsApp, and social media while driving around Iceland

You can head to gorentals.is/allthingsiceland

Once you enter your travel dates, the 7% discount is automatically applied.

For Go Car:
When you get to the extras section, select 4G WiFi. You’ll see the price stays the same, even though it has been added.

For Go Campers:
Choose a sleeping bag under the “extras” section, and same thing, the total price won’t increase.

And just so you know, using my link gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s one of the ways you’re supporting All Things Iceland and the content I create. So thank you for that.

The Hidden Expense in Iceland that Most Travelers Forget: Parking FeesMany waterfalls, black sand beaches, scenic viewpoints, geothermal areas, and hiking spots now charge for parking. This is especially in popular areas like the Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and downtown Reykjavík.

I’ve seen this change a lot over the years since I moved here in 2016. There were many places that used to have completely free parking, but because of the increase in tourism, road maintenance, parking lot maintenance, and of course landowners wanting to make money, parking fees have become much more common.

I usually recommend budgeting around $80 USD total for parking during a 5-day trip depending on how much driving you’re doing.

You can also use the Parka app to look up parking fees in advance, which can help a lot with planning.

If you’re unsure where to go or how to organize your route efficiently, I highly recommend checking out My Iceland Map on Rexby. It includes 350+ personally recommended locations around Iceland that I’ve visited and enjoyed myself.

Food Costs in IcelandFood absolutely adds up in Iceland if you eat every meal out.

A casual restaurant meal is usually around $20–35 per person, while a nicer dinner can easily be $40–80+. Coffee and a pastry are often around $10–15, and cocktails in Reykjavík can easily cost over $20 each.

For five days, I’d say a budget traveler who cooks some meals or makes sandwiches could probably spend around $150–300, while a mid-range traveler who eats out more regularly could spend around $300–700+.

One of my favorite budget hacks is booking accommodations with breakfast included. Then you can eat a larger breakfast, make sandwiches or grab snacks for later, and only pay for dinner out.

For groceries, Bónus is generally the cheapest option, while Krónan is another great alternative.

And surprisingly, IKEA Iceland is one of the cheapest places to sit down and eat a full meal in Iceland. I’m not suggesting that you eat at IKEA every day but I just think it is fun to share that random information.

What to Budget for Activities & Tours in IcelandThis category really depends on what type of traveler you are.

Some people are perfectly happy exploring waterfalls, scenic drives, geothermal areas, and hiking trails, which can keep costs relatively low. Others want glacier hikes, snorkeling, whale watching, ice caves, and snowmobiling. All of these activities can add up quickly.

The Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are generally around $100–150+, glacier hikes are around $100–200+, whale watching tours around $118–150+, and ice cave tours can range from $150–300+ depending on the experience.

One of my favorite lower-cost alternatives to the major lagoons is going to a local swimming pool like Laugardalslaug. It has Olympic-sized pools, hot tubs, a cold plunge, slides, and it gives you a chance to experience Icelandic swimming pool culture alongside locals for a fraction of the cost of the lagoons.

And if you love museums, there are actually certain times of year when you can visit many for free during events like Winter Lights Festival in February and Menningarnótt (Culture Night) in August.

Use Discount Codes & Links to Save Money in Iceland One of the easiest ways to save money in Iceland is by not paying full price when you don’t have to.

My free Iceland Discount Code Bundle includes discounts for rental cars, camper vans, tours, activities, hotels, outerwear, and more.

Most tour discounts are around 10% off, and when you apply those savings across multiple activities, it really does make a noticeable difference in your final trip budget.

Always Leave Room for Unexpected CostsThis is honestly one of my biggest Iceland budgeting tips overall: always leave room for flexibility.

Weather changes quickly in Iceland, and road conditions can shift plans unexpectedly. That could mean rerouting, staying somewhere an extra night, changing accommodations, or adjusting activities because of storms or warnings.

Whenever possible, I recommend keeping a few hundred dollars of flexibility in your budget if you can. It just makes the trip feel significantly less stressful.

Realistic 5-Day Iceland Budget by SeasonFor winter travel between November and March (excluding holidays), a budget traveler is usually looking at around $1,300–2,000, while a mid-range traveler is closer to $1,800–2,700.

Winter tends to be cheaper because hotel demand is lower, rental cars are less expensive, and there are fewer crowds. The trade-off, of course, is less daylight and more unpredictable weather.

For summer, budget travelers are usually spending around $1,800–3,000, while mid-range travelers are closer to $2,500–4,000+.

Summer costs rise because of peak tourism demand, midnight sun season, easier travel conditions, Highlands access, and limited accommodations.

The biggest reason I wanted to make this episode was honestly to help people manage expectations.

Iceland can absolutely be expensive. But once you understand how seasonality works, where your biggest expenses are, and how to budget realistically, it becomes much easier to create a trip that works for your finances and travel style.

And honestly, being informed ahead of time makes Iceland feel so much less overwhelming.

The Random Fact of the EpisodeDid you know that Iceland has around 41 active volcanic systems — including volcanoes beneath the ocean? According to Náttúra Íslands (Natt.is), a volcano is considered “active” if it has erupted within the last 11,000–12,000 years, which is actually pretty recent in geological terms.

The most active volcanic system in Iceland is called Grímsvötn, located in Southeast Iceland. It has erupted on average about once every decade over the last thousand years.

Meanwhile, Iceland’s largest volcanic system is Bárðarbunga, and many of the country’s enormous lava fields were created from eruptions there.

What’s also fascinating is that volcanic systems in Iceland are often made up of:

a central volcano,
plus a fissure swarm,
all connected to a shared underground magma chamber deep within the Earth’s crust.

Which honestly explains why Iceland can sometimes feel like you’re standing on another planet.

Icelandic Word of the Episodeferðakostnaður — travel expenses or cost of travel

Pronunciation: FEHR-tha-kost-na-thur

This felt like the perfect word for this episode because honestly… that’s exactly what we’ve been talking about the entire time.

In Icelandic:

ferð = trip/journey
kostnaður = cost/expense

So together:
ferðakostnaður = the cost of traveling.

Example:

“Ferðakostnaður á Íslandi getur verið hár á sumrin.”

“Travel costs in Iceland can be high during the summer.”

And trust me… Icelanders definitely understand this too, especially when traveling around their own country during peak season.

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There are places in Iceland that are easy to visit. And then there are places that require a bit more effort, but reward you in ways you honestly don’t expect.

I’m sharing 5 places across the country that are absolutely worth the detour.

These aren’t your typical Golden Circle stops. These are the kinds of places that make people say: “Wait… THIS was in Iceland?!”

If you’re planning a trip and want to go beyond the basics, this list is for you.

Table of Contents* How to Reach These Places (Car & Camper Van Tips) * Látrabjarg (Westfjords) * Seyðisfjörður (East Iceland) * Hveradalir (Highlands) * Plan Your Trip with My Iceland Map * Westman Islands / Vestmannaeyjar (South Iceland) * Siglufjörður (North Iceland) * Sample Route Using These 5 Detours * Random Fact of the Episode * Icelandic Word of the Episode

How to Reach These Places (And Save on Your Rental)Let’s be real for a second. To visit places like these, especially the Westfjords, Highlands, and North Iceland, you’ll need your own vehicle.

Public transport won’t get you to most of these locations, and guided tours often don’t go this far off the beaten path.

That’s where having the right rental car or camper van makes all the difference.

I personally use and recommend:

Go Car Rental Iceland
Go Campers

I’ve partnered with them for years because:

They have a wide variety of vehicles (from small cars to fully equipped campers)
Their customer service is amazing
And they make it easy to travel around Iceland confidently

How to Save + Get Free ExtrasWhen you use my link:
gorentals.is/allthingsiceland

You’ll automatically get:

7% off your rental
Plus some really helpful extras

Here’s exactly what to do:For Go Car Rental:

Click the link and enter your travel dates
The 7% discount is automatically applied
When you get to “Insurance & Extras”
Select 4G WiFi
You’ll see the price does not increase, it stays the same

For Go Campers:

Click the same link and choose your camper
The 7% discount is automatically applied
Under the “Sleeping” section
Select a sleeping bag
Again, the price stays the same

It’s one of those little things that makes a big difference when you’re traveling around Iceland.

Látrabjarg (Westfjords)If you’re craving something remote, raw, and wildly beautiful, this is it.

Látrabjarg is the westernmost point of Iceland, and is known for its dramatic sea cliffs and incredible birdlife.

Why Látrabjarg worth the detour: One of the best places in Iceland to see puffins up close* * Massive cliffs stretching for kilometers * A true “edge of the world” feeling

Important tips: The road can be rough, so take it slow * Best visited in summer (June–mid August for puffins)* * Not recommended in winter, late fall or early spring.

You can use a 2wd to get here but a 4×4 makes the trip easier and smoother. This is exactly the type of destination where having the right vehicle matters.

Seyðisfjörður (East Iceland)This town feels like stepping into a completely different side of Iceland.

The drive into Seyðisfjörður alone is unforgettable. The winding road down a mountain pass into a peaceful fjord surrounded by waterfalls is incredible.

What makes Seyðisfjörður special:* Eclectic, artistic vibe * The iconic 🌈 rainbow road leading to the blue church * Quiet and scenic atmosphere

Easy access:It’s only about 25 minutes from Egilsstaðir, making it a simple but rewarding detour in the East.

Hveradalir (Highlands)If you’ve heard of Landmannalaugar, think similar, but quieter and less crowded.

Hveradalir is a geothermal wonderland filled with steaming valleys and colorful rhyolite mountains.

Why Hveradalir stands out: Incredible views right from the parking lot* * Fewer crowds than other Highland destinations * Surreal, otherworldly landscapes

What you need to know: Only accessible in summer * A 4×4 vehicle is required* * Your car must be insured for F-roads * No river crossings needed

This is where renting the right type of vehicle becomes essential.

Stop Guessing What’s Worth Visiting in IcelandPlanning a trip here can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out what’s actually worth the detour.
Inside my Iceland Map, I’ve pinned 350+ must-see spots, hidden gems, and practical stops so you can build a trip that flows without second-guessing every decision.

Click Here for the Map

Vestmannaeyjar – The Westman Islands(South Iceland)The Westman Islands feel like a completely different world.

A ferry ride from the south coast takes you to a volcanic island shaped by a powerful 1973 eruption.

Why it’s worth visiting: One of the largest puffin colonies in the world* * Unique volcanic landscapes * Incredible hiking * Beluga whale & puffin sanctuary

When to go:* Summer for puffins * Winter for dramatic scenery

Siglufjörður (North Iceland)Siglufjörður is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem.

What makes Siglufjörður special:* Charming harbor views * Rich fishing history * Peaceful, tucked-away atmosphere

Getting there:The drive, especially through the mountain tunnels, is part of the adventure. It’s a one lane tunnel for both car directions.

Sample Itinerary Including These 5 Detour StopsIf you’re wondering how to actually connect these places into one trip, here’s a realistic way to do it.

This route works best in summer, when the Highlands and Westfjords are accessible.

Suggested Trip Length: 10–14 daysDay 1–2: Reykjavík + South Coast* Explore Reykjavík * Drive the South Coast * Optional overnight near Vík or Hvolsvöllur

From here, you’ll head toward your first detour.

Day 3: Ferry to Vestmannaeyjar* Take the ferry from Landeyjahöfn * Explore Heimaey island * Hike Eldfell volcano * Puffin spotting (in summer)

Overnight on the island or return to the mainland.

Day 4–5: Head East to Seyðisfjörður* Drive along the South Coast toward East Iceland * Stop at glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches along the way * Base yourself near Egilsstaðir * Take the scenic drive into Seyðisfjörður

This is one of the most beautiful drives in the country. Don’t rush it.

Day 6–7: North Iceland + Siglufjörður* Continue north along the Ring Road * Optional stops: Dettifoss, Mývatn area * Head to Siglufjörður via the mountain tunnels

Take your time here. This town is all about slowing down.

Day 8–9: Into the Highlands – Hveradalir* Head inland toward Kerlingarfjöll * Drive F-roads (with a 4×4 vehicle) * Explore Hveradalir geothermal area

Plan for flexibility because Highland weather can change quickly.

Day 10–12: The Westfjords + Látrabjarg* Drive toward the Westfjords * Take your time—this region is all about slow travel * Visit Látrabjarg cliffs for puffins and insane coastal views

This is the most remote part of the trip, and honestly, one of the most rewarding.

Day 13–14: Return to Reykjavík* Head back toward Reykjavík * Optional stop at Snæfellsnes Peninsula along the way

Important Notes for This Route This is a big trip. Don’t try to rush it * Best done June–August * A 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended* * Always check: + Road conditions on SafeTravel.is + Weather before heading into remote areas at vedur.is

Want This Route Planned Out for You?This is exactly the kind of trip that can feel overwhelming to piece together on your own.

Inside my Iceland Map, I’ve already:

Pinned all of these locations
Included nearby stops you wouldn’t think to add
Made it easy to build a route that actually makes sense

So instead of guessing, you can just plug things in and go.

Random Fact of the EpisodeIceland is home to the largest puffin colony in the world, and many of them nest along cliffs like Látrabjarg.

At their peak, you can see millions of puffins around the country. But they spend most of their lives out at sea, only coming to land to breed.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeKrókur (KROH-kur)
Meaning: a hook, bend, or detour

A perfect word for this post, because the best places in Iceland often require a little krókur.

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The 2026 total solar eclipse is already drawing attention from travelers around the world, and for good reason. The last time a total solar eclipse was visible in Iceland was in 1954, and the next one won’t happen again until 2196.

This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PN4ZKGJ7QYI

What Makes a Total Solar Eclipse So SpecialA total solar eclipse is when the Moon completely covers the Sun. Not partially, not mostly, completely!

And when that happens, everything changes.

The sky gets dark, like twilight in the middle of the day
Temperatures drop
And you can see the Sun’s corona, which looks like a glowing white halo

But honestly?

The technical explanation doesn’t fully capture it. People who have seen total solar eclipses travel across the world to experience them again.

Free Iceland 2026 Total Solar Eclipse GuideIn this free guide you’ll know where to go for the best chance of seeing totality, how to plan around Iceland’s unpredictable weather, and how to turn this into an unforgettable Iceland adventure.

Click Here

Why Iceland is So Unique for The 2026 Total Solar Eclipse?The 2026 eclipse path crosses a limited number of places, and Iceland is one of the most accessible and visually stunning locations in that path.

Imagine this for a second:

You’re standing near a black sand beach or next to a massive waterfall or in the middle of a volcanic landscape…then the sky goes dark.

That’s what makes Iceland different.

You’re not just watching the eclipse, you’re experiencing it in one of the most dramatic natural environments in the world.

On top of that:

Iceland has wide open landscapes with unobstructed views
You’re never too far from a coastline
And depending on where you go, you can avoid huge crowds

But to be completely transparent, Iceland also comes with its challenges.

Why Planning Early Matters (A LOT) for the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse in Iceland Planning early for this eclipse is not optional—it’s essential.

Here’s why:

Limited AccommodationsIceland already has limited places to stay. Small towns, fewer hotels, and high demand even in a normal year make in challenging during summer.

Now add a once-in-a-lifetime event? Things will book out fast!

Unpredictable WeatherIcelandic weather changes quickly. Like, very quickly.

You could have:

Clear skies in one area
And full cloud cover just an hour away

Which means if you stay in one place and hope for the best, you might miss it.

Distances Are DeceptiveIceland looks small on the map, but driving between places often takes longer than people expect.

So knowing:

Where to base yourself
Where to go on eclipse day
And how to stay flexible

…can completely change your experience.

Free Help Planning Your Total Solar Eclipse Trip for Iceland?Honestly, this is exactly why I created a free guide for this.

I’ve seen how quickly things can get overwhelming when planning a trip here, especially for something as big as a total solar eclipse.

So I put together a free 42-page guide to help you feel confident going into this.

By the time you finish it, you’ll know:

Where to go for the best chance of seeing totality in Iceland
How to plan around Iceland’s unpredictable weather
What to book and when
And how to turn this into an unforgettable Iceland adventure, not just a stressful chase for a view

👉🏾 Grab the free guide guide here – https://allthingsiceland.com/iceland-total-solar-eclipse-guide-2026/

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe longest possible total solar eclipse on Earth can last up to about 7 minutes.

In Iceland for 2026, totality will max be 2 minutes and 13 seconds,which makes timing everything.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeSólmyrkvi — Solar Eclipse

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If there were ever a holiday that felt personally designed for me, it’s Bolludagur, Iceland’s cream bun day and, in my opinion, Iceland’s most delicious holiday.

Bolludagur takes place every year on the Monday before Lent. And on this day, Iceland collectively agrees to eat an unreasonable amount of cream bun without guilt, without shame, and usually without stopping at just one.

What Is a Bolla, Exactly?A bolla is an Icelandic cream bun. Traditionally, it’s made from a light choux-style pastry that’s sliced open, filled generously with whipped cream and sometimes jam, and then topped with chocolate glaze or icing.

That’s the classic version, but modern Bolludagur has evolved far beyond that. These days, bakeries get wildly creative with flavors, fillings, and toppings, which is exactly why this day has become such a big deal.

Why Bolludagur Is a Thing in Iceland?Bolludagur is part of Iceland’s version of Carnival, leading into Lent. Historically, it was about indulging before a period of restraint, but in true Icelandic fashion, it turned into a full-blown pastry event.

How Much Do Cream Buns Cost in Iceland?Before we get into the bakeries, let’s talk price.

As of 2026, most Icelandic cream buns fall somewhere between:

575 ISK ($4.70) – 925 ISK ($7.56) per bun

Prices vary depending on the bakery, the size, and how elaborate the bun is. This is just an estimate based on current offerings — prices may be higher or lower in the future, so always check directly with the bakery.

5 Places Worth Visiting for Cream Buns in Reykjavík1. Plantan Kaffihús and BistroPlantan is a plant-based favorite in Reykjavík, and for Bolludagur they’re going all in with six different cream buns this year:

Snickers
Swedish Semla
Biscoff Cheesecake
Classic
Matcha
Raspberry

If you’re vegan, plant-based, lactose intolerant, or just curious, Plantan is absolutely worth a stop.

Brauð & Co.One of Reykjavík’s most recognizable bakeries, Brauð & Co. is offering five varieties:
Classic
Vanilla Nougat
Yuzu Lemon
Vegan
Caramel

If you want something that feels both traditional and playful, this is a great place to check out

Passion ReykjavíkPassion Reykjavík wins for sheer variety. They’re offering 15 different cream buns, which is honestly impressive.

Some of their flavors include:

After Eight
Hressobolla (rumored “cream bun of the year” for 2026)
Classic
Croissant-style
Irish
Strawberry
Caramel
Coconut
Nóa Kropp (Icelandic candy)
Oreo
Púnd (rum cream with sifted icing sugar)
Snickers & Banana
Twix
Valentine’s Edition
Vegan version

If you want options — a lot of options — this is the place.

IKEAYes. IKEA.

IKEA in Iceland fully participates in Bolludagur and offers seven cream buns:

Strawberry
Banana cream & hazelnut butter
Chocolate & licorice
Classic with chocolate sauce
Classic with caramel
Vegan with chocolate
Vegan with caramel

These are also typically the most affordable cream buns you’ll find.

DeigDeig keeps things refined but flavorful with five varieties:
Rosehip jam
Raspberry jam
Vanilla almond
Nutella
Pistachio

If you like pastries that feel a little more elegant, Deig is a solid choice.

Random Fact of the EpisodeEvery year for Bolludagur, over one million cream buns are made and sold across Iceland — making it one of the most pastry-intensive days of the entire year.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeBolluvöndur – A decorated stick children use on Bolludagur to playfully “demand” cream buns by tapping their parents and chanting “Bolla! Bolla! Bolla!”

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Bríet Ísis Elfar is not just one of Iceland’s biggest music stars. She’s an artist who embodies fearlessness, authenticity, and constant reinvention. Her breakout English-language single In Too Deep in 2018 introduced her sultry, soulful voice to the world, but it was her 2020 album Kveðja, Bríet that catapulted her to national stardom. She won “Album of the Year” and cemented herself as one of the country’s most influential female musicians.

Big Conversations in the Coziest Setting with Center HotelsThis interview is part of my In Bed With series, created in partnership with Center Hotels. Each conversation is recorded right in a bed at one of Center Hotels’ nine locations in downtown Reykjavík—keeping things cozy, relaxed, and a little unconventional. If you’re planning a stay in the city, you can use my code ATI25 to save 25% off at any Center Hotels location in Reykjavík.

Bríet’s Artistic & Spiritual UpbringingBorn in Reykjavík in 1999, Bríet grew up in a uniquely creative and spiritual household. Her father, Benedikt Elfar, taught her guitar and nurtured her love of jazz, while her mother, Ásrún Laila Awad, led sweat-lodge ceremonies infused with mantra chanting and deep emotional connection.

Raised in this world of music, ritual, and radical openness, Bríet developed both resilience and a powerful sense of self.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFeYJr4JdIk

From Jazz Bars to Center StageFrom singing jazz in Reykjavík restaurants for a hamburger and 5,000 krónur, to debuting her original work on the stage of Sónar Reykjavík, Bríet’s journey has been anything but ordinary. She’s unapologetically experimental, whether making plastic “glass” dresses with her longtime fashion collaborator, diving into collaborative projects like 1000 orð with rapper Birnir, or writing songs that transform heartbreak into catharsis.

Bríet’s Radical Honesty as a Creative ForceKnown for her raw honesty, she has openly shared struggles with belonging, heartbreak, and personal growth. Yet through it all, her guiding philosophy remains simple: don’t take life too seriously, embrace failure, and always follow the intuition of the heart.

At a Turning Point, Always BecomingToday, Bríet stands at a new turning point—after years of acclaim, collaborations with major Icelandic artists like Ásgeir Trausti and Friðrik Dór, and millions of streams worldwide, she continues to chase the unknown.

Whether sitting next to global icons in Tokyo or returning to her roots in a sweat lodge in Iceland, Bríet carries a rare ability to turn both joy and pain into beauty.

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There’s a lot of advice about traveling to Iceland, and not all of it is helpful. In this podcast episode, I’m breaking down five common Iceland travel myths that end up quietly costing travelers time, money, and energy.

From unrealistic expectations about weather to misunderstandings around driving and seasons, this episode will help you spot the assumptions that derail trips before they even begin.

The 5 Iceland Travel Myths That Mislead VisitorsMyth 1: “Iceland is always freezing cold”Iceland has a reputation for being brutally cold, but that’s not actually true year-round — or even most of the time. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, temperatures are often milder than people expect, especially along the coast. The bigger challenge for travelers is usually wind and changing weather, not extreme cold. When people assume “freezing,” they often overpack or misunderstand what conditions they’re really preparing for.

Myth 2: “You need extreme winter clothing”Many travelers assume they need expedition-level gear just to survive Iceland, which leads to overpacking and overspending. In reality, what matters most is layering properly, not wearing the heaviest gear possible. Waterproof and windproof layers are far more important than bulky items. Dressing smartly, not excessively, makes travel easier, more comfortable, and more flexible.

Myth 3: “Winter driving is too dangerous for tourists”Winter driving in Iceland isn’t automatically dangerous, but it does require preparation and realistic expectations. Many visitors drive safely every winter by choosing appropriate vehicles, monitoring weather forecasts, and adjusting their plans when needed. Conditions vary significantly by region and day, which is why flexibility and local awareness matter more than fear. The real risk comes from underestimating the conditions, not from driving itself.

Myth 4: “It’s completely dark in Iceland during winter”While daylight hours are shorter in winter, Iceland is not in total darkness. Even around the winter solstice, there are several hours of daylight, including long twilight periods. Many travelers are surprised by how usable the day still feels — especially when plans are adjusted to match daylight windows. Understanding how daylight actually works makes winter travel far less intimidating.

Myth 5: “You can only see the Northern Lights in winter”Winter is the most popular season for Northern Lights viewing, but it’s not the only time they appear. The aurora can be visible in late fall and early spring as well — whenever skies are dark enough and solar activity cooperates. The key factors are darkness, clear skies, and patience, not just the season itself. This myth often causes people to unnecessarily limit their travel options.

The Real Issue: Assumptions, Not Bad DecisionsMost Iceland travel mistakes aren’t about bad decisions, they’re about bad assumptions. When travelers rely on oversimplified advice or viral content, they often plan trips that don’t match reality. Once those assumptions are corrected, Iceland becomes far easier and more enjoyable to explore.

Plan Iceland With Clarity, Not GuessworkIf you’re planning a trip to Iceland and feeling overwhelmed by conflicting information, I want to invite you to my Live Iceland Trip Planning Workshop happening on January 31st, 2026. It’s the first workshop of the year and is especially helpful if you’re planning a trip for 2026 or beyond and want a strong head start.

This is a live, interactive workshop where I walk you through how to plan your trip realistically — from driving distances and timing, to choosing the right season, and building an itinerary that actually works.

You’ll also be able to ask me your questions in real time, which is honestly one of the most valuable parts. I also do a giveaway at the end of the workshop, including Iceland-related prizes. One of those prizes is a one-on-one video trip consultation with me, which is usually fully booked since I only open a few slots each year.

If you want clarity, confidence, and a solid plan instead of stress, you can find all the details and sign up using the link in the show notes or here 👉🏾
https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/iceland-trip-planning-workshop

Random Fact of the EpisodeWinter can be very dry in Iceland. I know that sounds strange since we often some sort of precipitation, like rain or snow, but the air is dry and that can wreak havoc on your skin. If you are prone to having dryness, make sure you double up on your moisturizer when you are here.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeGoðsögn – myth

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If you’ve ever looked at a map of Iceland and thought, “Oh wow, it’s tiny — we can totally see everything,” you are not alone.

I hear this all the time. And honestly? It makes sense. Iceland looks small on a map, but traveling through it is a very different experience.

I’m going to explain why Iceland being ‘small’ is actually misleading, and how that misunderstanding causes a lot of travelers to overpack their itineraries, underestimate drive times, and end up more stressed than they expected.

https://youtu.be/H9-PBrpRFjA

How Map Illusion Makes Iceland’s Size ConfusingYes, Iceland is about the size of Kentucky. But unlike many places, almost all travel happens on a single main road, and that road isn’t a straight highway from point A to point B.

Driving in Iceland involves:

Winding roads
One-lane bridges
Changing weather
Sudden stops because… well… waterfalls, sheep, and stunning landscapes

For example, Reykjavík to Vík doesn’t look far, but that drive alone can take 2.5 to 3 hours, and that’s without stopping. And no one ever drives Iceland without stopping.

Now add:

Limited daylight in winter
Weather delays
Gravel roads
Fatigue from constant visual stimulation

Suddenly, “just one more stop” becomes the thing that breaks your day.

This is where travelers get tripped up — they plan based on distance, not time.

I’ve seen itineraries that say: “Golden Circle in the morning, South Coast in the afternoon.”

Technically? Possible.
Realistically? Exhausting.

I Learned the Hard WayEven after living in Iceland for years, I still plan conservatively. Not because I can’t do more, but because I’ve learned the hard way. There have been a few times when I stuffed my itinerary so much that I felt tired, stressed, and annoyed. Traveling felt more like a chore than an adventure.

How to Realistically Plan a Trip to Iceland That is Personalized for YouIf you’re planning a trip to Iceland and feeling overwhelmed by all the information out there, I want to invite you to my Live Iceland Trip Planning Workshop happening on January 31st, 2026. It is the first one of this year and is extremely helpful for getting a head start on planning your trip in Iceland for 2026 and beyond.

This is a live, interactive workshop where I help you understand how to plan your trip realistically, from driving distances and timing, to choosing the right season, and building an itinerary that actually works.

You’ll also be able to ask me your questions in real time, which is honestly one of the most valuable parts. I also do a giveaway of Iceland related prizes at the end of the workshop. One prize is a one-one video consultation with me, which is normally all booked up because I have few slots open for that throughout the year.

If you want clarity, confidence, and a solid plan instead of stress, here are is where you can secure your spot for the live workshop.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe total length of the ring road or route 1 is 1,322 kilometres (821 mi), making it the longest ring road in Europe. It connects the majority of towns together in the most densely populated areas of the country.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeTími (tee-mi) — Time

A perfect reminder that in Iceland, planning by time, not distance, is what makes or breaks a trip.

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If you’re searching for the perfect Christmas gift for that Iceland-obsessed friend in your life, I’ve got you covered. As someone who lives in Iceland and shares all things Icelandic year-round, I’ve rounded up a curated list of meaningful, cozy, and delicious gifts that will make any Iceland lover light up this holiday season.

Here are some wonderful Iceland-inspired ideas (links included):

A Traditional Icelandic Sweater (Lopapeysa)Nothing says “I love Iceland” quite like a beautifully hand-knit lopapeysa. Made from Icelandic wool, it’s warm, breathable, and naturally water-resistant. Plus, each pattern carries a piece of Icelandic heritage—making it a functional and sentimental gift.
Jólaöl – Icelandic Christmas AleThis seasonal favorite ale is only available around the holidays and has a comforting malt-forward flavor that Icelanders adore. It’s a festive, fun, and very Icelandic way to toast the season.
Icelandic ChocolateIceland’s chocolate makers craft incredibly smooth and flavorful treats, often using local ingredients. Whether it’s classic milk chocolate or artisanal small-batch bars, this gift never fails to impress sweet-toothed Iceland enthusiasts.
Iceland Christmas-Themed MugsPerfect for cozy winter mornings, these mugs let your Iceland-loving friend enjoy their coffee or tea with a little nod to their favorite country. They’re great for holiday decorating too!
Icelandic Coffee BlendsCoffee culture is strong in Iceland, and local roasters create rich, aromatic blends inspired by the island’s landscapes and traditions. It’s a thoughtful gift for anyone who starts their day with a warm cup in hand.
Icelandic Beer & SpiritsFrom craft beers to unique Icelandic spirits like Brennivín, these beverages offer a fun taste of Iceland’s brewing and distilling traditions. It’s a great way to share a little Icelandic cheer from afar.
A Book by an Icelandic AuthorIceland punches far above its weight in literature! Whether your friend loves mysteries, folklore, poetry, or Icelandic sagas, gifting a book from a local author is a beautiful way to connect them to Iceland’s storytelling roots.
Outerwear from an Icelandic BrandIcelanders know how to stay warm, dry, and stylish in unpredictable weather. Jackets, hats, and other outerwear from local brands, like 66 North, make incredible gifts—practical, high-quality, and authentically Icelandic.
A Music Record from a Local Icelandic ArtistMusic is a huge part of Icelandic culture, and gifting a vinyl record or album from a local artist is a beautiful way to share the country’s creative spirit. Whether it’s ethereal vocals, indie rock, contemporary pop, or traditional Icelandic sounds, this gift connects your friend to Iceland through artistry and emotion.

Random Fact of the EpisodeIt’s my first Christmas as a mom and I’m so excited!

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeToday’s Icelandic word is: “Jólagjöf” (yo-la-gyöv) — which means “Christmas gift.” You’ll hear Icelanders using this word everywhere in December. So now, when you’re picking out that perfect jólagjöf for your Iceland-obsessed friend, you can throw in a little Icelandic too.

I hope this episode sparks some great ideas for thoughtful, meaningful Christmas gifts inspired by Iceland. If you want links to any of the items I mentioned, check the show notes for this episode at allthingsiceland.com/iceland-christmas-gift-ideas

If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe, leave a review, or share it with someone who also loves Iceland. And of course, you can follow me on social media @allthingsiceland for more Icelandic content, tips, and inspiration.

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Aldís Amah Hamilton is a trailblazing Icelandic actress, writer, and cultural icon. Born in Germany and raised in Reykjavík, she has starred in hit shows like The Valhalla Murders, Netflix’s Katla, and co-created the gripping series Black Sands. In 2019, she made history as the first woman of color to embody the Fjallkonan, Iceland’s national symbol on Independence Day in Reykjavík, which is the largest celebration and is televised around the country.

Beyond the screen, Aldís lends her voice to video games like Senua’s Saga: Hellblade II and Echoes of the End, and leads as chair of the Vegan Association of Iceland—advocating for plant-based living while shaping Iceland’s cultural landscape.

Save Big When You Stay in ReykjavíkThe “In bed with” series is sponsored by Center Hotels and the interviews are recording at one of their hotels while I chat with my guests in a bed. They have 9 hotels in the center of Reykjavik and each of them is unique. To save 25% on your stay with Center Hotels use my code ATI25.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyWfVs_j36A

The Previous Interview I did with Aldís Amah Years AgoI was very fortunate to interveiw Aldís Amah Hamilton years before her acting career took off. Learn more about her childhood in Iceland by checking out that interview here – https://allthingsiceland.com/aldis-amah-biracial-iceland-interview/

Some of the Topics Aldís Amah and I Spoke About During the Interview✨ Breaking barriers in the Icelandic acting world
✨ Making history as the Fjallkonan
✨ Life as a vegan and her role in Iceland’s vegan community
✨ What drives her authenticity on and off screen

Live Iceland Trip Planning WorkshopOn Saturday, October 4th, 2025, I’m hosting a Live Iceland Trip Planning Workshop. Get local expertise to help cut through confusion and plan your trip with ease.

Click Here

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If I could go back to my very first trip to Iceland in 2013, knowing what I know now after living here for over nine years and traveling extensively around the country, there are three major things I would do differently. And I think these are going to help you as you’re planning your own adventure here.

Understanding how Daylight Hours Impact Travel Plans in IcelandWhen I came here for the first time, I knew the days were shorter in winter, but I wasn’t prepared for how short they were. Imagine only having four hours of daylight in December, with the sun rising around 11 a.m. That completely changes how much you can see and do in a day. Had I planned with that in mind, I could’ve maximized my time so much better.
Take Driving Distances around Iceland in to Consideration While PlanningThis one surprised me the most. Iceland looks small on a map compared to other countries, but trust me, it’s not as quick to get around as you think. For example, the stunning Stuðlagil canyon in East Iceland? It’s about a seven-and-a-half-hour drive from Reykjavík. That’s just one of the hundreds of incredible places you might want to see. If you don’t account for drive times, you’ll either be rushed or miss out on places you were hoping to experience.
Building Flexibility into Your PlanIcelandic weather can change dramatically no matter the season. A severe windstorm or heavy snow could shut down access to an area, which means your plans may need to pivot. The good news is, with the right approach, you can build in alternatives, so your trip is still amazing even if the weather forces you to adjust.

Expert Help for Your Planning Your Trip to IcelandNow, these are just a few of the things I’ll be diving into in my Iceland Trip Planning Workshop happening on October 4th. In this one-hour live, interactive session, I’ll walk you through a proven framework for creating your own 5-day itinerary in Iceland—without spending hours scrolling blogs and piecing together random tips from social media.

In just one hour, you will:
✅ Cut through the confusion and know exactly where to start
✅ Learn a proven framework for planning any 5-day Iceland trip
✅ Get insider tips from someone who actually lives in and travels around Iceland
✅ Walk away with practical steps you can put into action immediately

What’s included in the Live Iceland Trip Planning Workshop A one-hour live, interactive planning session with me * Replay access for up to 16 days afterward * Practical steps to build an itinerary that fits your personal travel style * Fun giveaways of Iceland-related prizes during the live session * Plus, a 15% discount code for My Iceland Map*, which has over 300 of my personal recommendations of what to do and see around the country

Use this link to save your seat at the workshop – https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/iceland-trip-planning-workshop

And because I love to reward action-takers, the first 50 people to register will get 15% off the workshop price with the code “Save15”.

So if you’ve been dreaming of Iceland but feel overwhelmed with where to start, this workshop will save you time, stress, and confusion—and help you make the most out of your trip.

Random Fact of the EpisodeI had no idea at the time in 2013 that I would for sure move to Iceland but I do know that the visit left such a profound impact on me that I was adamant about visiting again in June of 2014.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeNámskeið – course or in this case I am using it for workshop, such as the Iceland Trip Planning Workshop

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Since bursting onto the scene in 1993, Páll Óskar—also known as Paul Oscar—has been turning heads, moving hips, and breaking boundaries. He’s not just a singer. He’s a performer, a provocateur, a fearless icon who has never shied away from being exactly who he is—openly gay, genre-bending, and unapologetically fabulous.

And let me tell you, he’s not slowing down anytime soon. His music and style have evolved over the decades, but his bold spirit and commitment to authenticity have never wavered. Whether he’s belting it out with the Iceland Symphony Orchestra or dancing down Reykjavík’s Laugavegur during Pride on a sparkling unicorn float (yes, really!), Páll brings all the drama in the best way possible.

https://youtu.be/Xvow55EE6ak

Save Big When You Stay in Reykjavík, IcelandThis episode is sponsored by Center Hotels, who is also a proud sponsor of Pride in Reykjavík.

To save big when you stay in any of their 9 hotels, use code ATI25 for 25% off.

Some of the Topics Páll Óskar and I Discussed during the Interview* The attitude towards artists in Iceland * His incredibly talented Family * Why trends spreads so quickly in Iceland * His family’s response after coming out in the 80s * Reconciling with his father after not being accepted as Gay * The change in Iceland toward the LGBTQ+ community * Being an artist and an activist in a small society * The pressure of having a famous older sibling * Owing Donna Summer & African Americans his whole life * Páll Óskar’s idea of the perfect Pride Parade * The Grindr scandal * Why representation matters in all forms * Páll Óskar’s Controversial Eurovision Performance * His advice for emerging artists

Check out Páll Óskar’s MusicIf you want to dance to awesome Icelandic pop music spanning from the 90s until present day, check out Páll Óskar’s music here.

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I recently stayed at Harmony Lodge, and let me tell you… it blew me away.

If the idea of relaxing in a private sauna and hot tub, surrounded by Icelandic nature — and away from the tourist crowds — sounds like a dream, then keep listening. I’ll also be sharing an exclusive discount you can use to save up to 25% on your own stay at Harmony Lodge.

My Stay at Harmony Lodge:Nestled in the serene South Icelandic countryside, this incredible place is just 10 minutes from Seljalandsfoss, one of the most famous waterfalls in the country. Despite being so close to big attractions, it feels completely remote. You won’t hear cars. You won’t see crowds. You’re just surrounded by open land, mossy hills, and stunning views.

Each lodge is built with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, giving you panoramic views of the landscape. From the moment I stepped inside, I felt like I had entered a warm, cozy bubble where I could completely unwind. The design is minimal yet luxurious — Scandinavian style with Icelandic charm.

And get this — every lodge comes with its own private sauna and hot tub. I honestly don’t think I’ve ever felt so relaxed after a day of exploring. Sitting in the hot tub at sunset with the fresh Icelandic air around me and the quiet of nature all around… It’s the kind of peaceful you can’t describe — you have to experience it.

Perfect Base for Exploring the South Coast:Another thing I loved is how Harmony Lodge strikes the perfect balance: peaceful seclusion, but super close to the major sites.

From the lodge, you’re:

10 minutes from Seljalandsfoss
30 minutes from Skógafoss
Just over an hour from Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Close to Þórsmörk, Eyjafjallajökull, and many more iconic stops.

You can easily explore during the day, then come back to complete privacy and calm — no busy hotels, no noisy hallways, no stress.

Special Discount to save on Harmony Lodge for All Things Iceland Listeners:Now, here’s the exciting part — I have an exclusive discount for All Things Iceland listeners and followers!

✨ Use code JEWELLS10 at checkout to save 10% on your stay at Harmony Lodge.

Even better — if you book two nights or more for a stay between now and August 31st, 2025, you can combine my 10% code with their current 15% discount. That’s 25% off total!

🗓️ The discount code is valid until July 31st, 2025, and you can book for any stay up until December 31st, 2025.

Just go to: https://harmonyretreatlodge.com
And enter JEWELLS10 at checkout.

Why Harmony Lodge Might Be Right for YouWhether you’re visiting Iceland for the first time, or you’ve been here before, staying at Harmony Lodge is such a special experience. It’s perfect for:

Couples on a romantic getaway
Travelers looking to unplug and relax
Nature lovers and photographers
And anyone who wants to experience Iceland in a deeper, more tranquil way

And I think we all deserve a little luxury and stillness sometimes — especially in a country as beautiful as this.

If you end up staying there, please let me know what you think! I’d love to hear about your experience.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe ferry to the Westman Island is just a short drive from the lodge. On a clear day, you can even see the islands from Harmony lodge which is awesome. The 50-minute ferry ride to Vestmannaeyja is totally worth it, especially in the summer.

Heimaey is such a fun and special place to visit. You can easily drive around the island and do different activities in just one day. I highly recommend adding this island to your itinerary.

Icelandic Word of the Episodejafnvægi – harmony

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I have some deeply personal and exciting news to share with you today…

I’m pregnant! 🍼💫

My mind is still blown that there is a tiny human growing inside of me. It’s been such a surreal, emotional, and beautiful experience. And honestly, it’s made me fall in love with this country in a whole new way.

This journey has already taught me so much — about Iceland’s healthcare system, the incredible prenatal care here, and yes, even the costs and cultural norms around pregnancy. So I’ll be sharing periodic pregnancy updates right here on the podcast, and also on YouTube, Instagram, and my other social channels. If you’re curious about what it’s like to be pregnant in Iceland — from ultrasounds to maternity leave to navigating it all as a foreigner — stay tuned.

I just hit the 20-week mark, which means I’m officially halfway!

How I am Celebrating Being 20 Weeks PregnantTo celebrate this life-changing milestone with you — my amazing community — I’m offering 25% off The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland for a limited time. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another magical adventure, this guide is packed with tips to make your Iceland visit smoother, richer, and more meaningful.

🎉 Use the code june25 at checkout to get 25% off!

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Thank you for being part of this journey with me — and now with us. 💛 Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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If you’ve listened to this podcast for a while or reading my posts, you’ve probably heard me mention that Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world—and that’s absolutely true in many ways. Violent crime is incredibly rare, and the sense of community and trust is deeply woven into Icelandic society.

But today, we need to talk about a growing concern—something that’s caught many tourists off guard: a rise in pickpocketing incidents, particularly in the south of Iceland, including well-traveled areas like Reykjavík, Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, and even inside churches like Hallgrímskirkja.

Iceland is Still Safe?Let me be clear: Iceland remains a safe place to travel. But just like anywhere that attracts large numbers of tourists, it’s not immune to the realities of opportunistic crime. And recently, we’ve seen a sharp increase in reports of pickpocketing—specifically targeting visitors at popular natural landmarks.

Police in South Iceland have been investigating what appears to be a well-organised group—possibly ten individuals—who are blending into crowds at major tourist sites. These aren’t random thieves. According to local authorities and park rangers, they use a highly coordinated strategy, working in teams to distract and steal from unsuspecting tourists.

How the Pickpockets Operate in IcelandLet’s take the geyser Strokkur in the Haukadalur Valley. When it erupts, hundreds of people gather to witness the spectacle—it’s loud, dramatic, and absolutely worth seeing. But as your eyes are glued to the steam and water shooting into the sky, pickpockets might be watching you.

They blend into the crowd, posing as fellow tourists. Some act as lookouts, some distract by chatting or even offering to take photos, and others use the distraction to reach into backpacks, pockets, or crossbody bags.

Stolen items—mostly cash in euros, dollars, pounds, or krónur—are passed quickly to accomplices, making it hard to trace who took what.

And this isn’t just happening at Strokkur. Similar reports have come from Gullfoss, Þingvellir, and even Reykjavík’s iconic Hallgrímskirkja church. In fact, the church recently posted warning signs at its entrance after a string of thefts occurred inside during visiting hours.

Prevention Tips – Simple, Smart, EffectiveSo, what can you do to avoid being targeted?

Here are some practical, simple things you can do to stay safe:

Use anti-theft bags. Look for ones with lockable zippers, cut-proof straps, and compartments that rest against your body.
Keep valuables close. A money belt worn under your clothing is ideal for passports, IDs, and cash.
Stay aware. If someone approaches you offering help, conversation, or to take your photo—especially in a crowded space—be friendly but cautious.
Avoid back pockets. Never store your wallet or phone in a back pocket. It’s just too easy to snatch.
Limit what you carry. Only take what you’ll need for the day—leave extra cards, cash, and your passport locked up at your accommodation.
Be mindful in crowds. Places like Strokkur, Geysir, and the viewing platforms at Þingvellir draw hundreds of people. These moments of awe are unfortunately prime time for thieves.

And one more thing: if the worst does happen and you are robbed, call 112—Iceland’s emergency services number. Also, make sure you have digital copies of your documents in a secure, password-protected folder, ideally emailed to yourself or saved in cloud storage.

When & Where PickPocket Groups Strike the MostAccording to park rangers and local authorities, these organised pickpocket groups tend to appear in February, March, and July—timing their activities around peak tourism periods. They often arrive early in the morning, scout areas like Þingvellir’s Hakið viewpoint above the Almannagjá gorge, and move on from site to site in a very methodical way.

This isn’t just some random occurrence—it’s a planned effort by individuals who know exactly what they’re doing and how to blend in. However, when and where they can do it might change so it is best to protect your belongings at all times.

How to Keep Each Other SafeIf you’re traveling with friends or family, look out for one another. And if you’re a tour guide or part of a travel group, report anything suspicious immediately to local police. The more reports that are filed, the better chance authorities have to stop these incidents before they escalate.

I’ll also include links in the show notes to recent news articles and official resources so you can stay informed and take proactive steps during your visit.

While this isn’t the most fun topic to cover, I believe it’s important to be honest and help you travel smart. Iceland is a stunning, unforgettable place—and I want you to enjoy every breathtaking waterfall, moss-covered lava field, and cultural experience without the stress of losing your wallet or passport.

Random Fact of the EpisodePetty crime in Iceland has been around for a long time but it mostly involved locals being targeted. A good example is bike thefts that have happened over the years.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeVasaþjólfur – pickpocket

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Summer in Iceland is just around the corner, so I’m diving into a topic that comes up a lot—how to dress and pack for summer in Iceland.

Whether you’re planning to explore glaciers, wander lava fields, hike to waterfalls, or just soak in the geothermal goodness, dressing right for Iceland’s unpredictable summer weather is key to staying warm, dry, and comfortable.

Summer Months in IcelandFirst things first, let’s talk about when summer happens in Iceland. While summer technically runs from June through August, things start to warm up by mid-May and stay fairly mild through early September.

But don’t let the word “summer” fool you. Unlike tropical destinations, Icelandic summer is more about long daylight hours than high temperatures.

Average Summer TemperaturesOn average, summer temperatures in Iceland range from 45°F to 60°F (that’s about 7°C to 15°C). On sunny days, it can feel warmer—especially if you’re hiking or layering correctly—but the wind and rain can sneak up on you. So, the key word here is layers!

What Are Layers, and Why Do They Matter?If you’re not familiar with the concept of layering clothes, here’s a quick breakdown below with my recommendations:

My Free Ultimate Packing Checklist for Summer in IcelandEssentials and non-essentials to pack for your summer adventure. In addition are my favorite summer pieces from 66 North and a 10% to save on that brand & more.

Click Here

The Base LayerThis is your first layer, the one closest to your skin. It should be moisture-wicking, meaning it pulls sweat away from your body so you stay dry. Think lightweight wool or synthetic materials—not cotton. A good base layer helps regulate your body temperature, even when you’re active.

My recommendation for a Base Layer:

Ljosfjöll Hoodie – Lightweight, breathable, and a perfect first layer against your skin. Keeps you warm without overheating.

The Mid LayerThe mid layer provides insulation. It traps heat to keep you warm, and you can add or remove this layer depending on the temperature. Fleece, wool sweaters, or insulated vests work great here. Think of this as your “cozy” layer.

My recommendations for a Mid Layer:

Kaldi Off White Sweater – This one is a classic Icelandic wool-style mid-layer. It’s stylish, warm, and breathable.
Tindur Pelican Jacket – A technical shearling mid-layer that works well alone or under a shell.
Kellir Down Vest – A lightweight puffer vest that adds warmth without bulk.
Kria Hybrid Hoodie – Water-resistant, warm, and highly packable. Perfect for high-energy hikes or windy coastlines.

The Outer LayerThis layer protects you from the elements—wind, rain, or even sleet (yes, even in summer). A high-quality shell jacket and weather-resistant pants will block wind and repel water, helping you stay dry no matter what Iceland throws your way.

My recommendations for an Outer Layer:

Snæfell Shell Jacket – Fully waterproof and windproof. A must-have. I’ve used it on rainy glacier hikes and it held up beautifully.
Borgir Women’s Pants – These Gore Infinium pants are water-resistant, comfy, and move with you.

Want to Save 10% on 66°North?If you’d like to save 10% on 66°North clothing—including the items I just mentioned—use this link. To see my favorite summer pieces from 66 North sold via Aktiv Style, use this link.

What’s extra awesome is that the link takes you to Aktiv Style, a U.S.-based company in Denver. They’re the only U.S. retailer with exclusive rights to sell 66°North clothing. That means you can shop your favorite Icelandic outerwear and get faster shipping—no need to wait weeks for it to arrive from Iceland.

All of my summer faves and much more are in my free Ultimate Checklist for Summer in Iceland. It also includes the discount link, and a discount code to save 10% on 66 North and all other brands on Aktiv Style’s website.

Hiking BootsThere are so many wonderful hiking trails to explore during summer in Iceland. Having sturdy hiking boots with great ankle support and grip are a must.

My favorite hiking boots are from Aku and they have been incredible on glaciers, in the highlands, and on long distance trails. They have also lasted me for years.

Accessories Vik Gloves – Lightweight and wind-resistant. Great for breezy days or glacier tours. * Surtsey Hat* – Warm, snug, and stylish. Plus, it covers your ears, which is essential when the wind picks up.

My Ultimate Summer Packing ListI’ve created My Ultimate Summer Packing List for Iceland, which includes everything you need—from layers to accessories, plus my personal favorites from 66°North in the Aktiv Style store are linked. I’ll drop the link in the show notes so you can easily check it out.

Random Fact of the EpisodeWhen I first moved to Iceland in June of 2016, I was not accustomed to the cooler temperatures, especially coming from the higher temperatures in NYC. A high of 55 degrees was chilly to me.

While I was walking around with a sweater and jacket, Icelanders were wearing shorts and a t-shirt. I never thought I would get accustomed to this type of summer weather but after almost 9 years of living here, 55 degrees Fahrenheit feels warm to me.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeSumarföt – summer clothes

Packing for Iceland in summer doesn’t have to be stressful. Stick to smart layers, quality outerwear, and versatile accessories, and you’ll be ready for whatever this magical country throws your way.

Check out the Ultimate Packing Checklist for Summer in Iceland, and don’t forget to use my discount link to grab 10% off some of the best outerwear for Icelandic weather.

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Whether you’re a fan of classical, experimental, indie rock, jazz, or even Cuban-inspired grooves, Iceland’s capital offers a surprising variety of venues catering to every musical taste. Today, I’m taking you on a virtual tour of some of the most beloved — and sometimes overlooked — places to catch a live performance in and around Reykjavík.

So, let’s crank up the volume and dive in!

Harpa Concert Hall – Iceland’s Premier Music VenueLet’s start with the crown jewel of Reykjavík’s music venues: Harpa. This stunning glass building by the harbor is not just an architectural icon — it’s a world-class concert hall. Harpa is home to the Iceland Symphony Orchestra and Icelandic Opera, so it’s your go-to for classical music, opera, and large-scale productions.

But don’t be fooled — Harpa also hosts jazz nights, electronic music events, and international artists across genres. The acoustics here are unmatched, and the setting? Simply magical.

Gamla BíóA short walk from Harpa is Gamla Bíó, or “The Old Cinema.” This historic venue has been transformed into a cozy concert hall with vintage charm. Expect indie rock, folk, pop, and the occasional orchestral ensemble. It’s an intimate setting with incredible sound, perfect for catching Icelandic artists and touring international acts in a space that feels like a hidden gem.
Hús Mál og MenningarNow, let’s talk about one of my personal favorites: Hús Mál og Menningar, right on Laugavegur, Reykjavík’s main shopping street. This bookstore-slash-bar is a cultural hub, and the upstairs stage is often alive with acoustic sets, singer-songwriter sessions, jazz, and even spoken word. The vibe here is chill, creative, and unmistakably Icelandic — it’s where you can sip a drink, browse books, and hear something totally unexpected, all in one evening.
MengiIf you’re into avant-garde, experimental, or contemporary classical music, Mengi is the place. Located in a small venue on Óðinsgata, this artist-run space regularly features performances by composers, interdisciplinary artists, and improvisational musicians. It’s intimate, forward-thinking, and always pushing the boundaries of what live music can be.
Salurinn (Kópavogur) — Special HighlightAnd just a short ride outside Reykjavík in Kópavogur is Salurinn, a beautiful, acoustically rich concert hall often hosting classical, jazz, and world music.

And here’s something you won’t want to miss: On May 31st, Icelandic musician Halli Guðmunds will be performing live at Salurinn with a six-piece band. What makes this show special? The group will be playing Cuban-inspired music and original tunes, blending Latin rhythms with Icelandic flair.

It promises to be a night of danceable beats, sophisticated arrangements, and pure joy. If you’re anywhere near Reykjavík at the end of May — mark your calendar. You’ll be treated to a one-of-a-kind musical journey.

Click here for tickets for Club Cubano.

LemmyOn the edgier side, we have Lemmy, Reykjavík’s go-to bar for rock, punk, and metal fans. The energy here is high-octane, the drinks are flowing, and the crowd is passionate. It’s the kind of place where you go to let loose and discover bands that might just blow your mind. Lemmy is carrying the torch for Reykjavík’s hard rock community — gritty, loud, and unapologetically fun.
Gaukurinn (currently closed for renovations)Gaukurinn, one of Reykjavík’s key underground venues, is temporarily closed for renovations. When open, it’s a haven for alternative music, from hardcore and punk to drag shows and open mics. We’ll be watching closely for its return because this venue has long been a platform for some of the boldest, rawest talent in the country.
Dillon Whiskey BarIf you’re craving classic rock vibes with a cozy, old-school atmosphere, Dillon is the place. Nestled in a wooden house near Laugavegur, Dillon has a great whiskey selection, a rustic upstairs stage, and a lineup of bluesy rock, acoustic, and local acts. It’s the kind of venue where the walls feel like they’ve soaked up every riff and chorus played there. Expect unpretentious fun and some real gems in the lineup.
12 TónarNow, 12 Tónar isn’t your typical music venue — it’s a legendary record store that doubles as a cultural space. Tucked away in a charming yellow house near the Reykjavík Art Museum, it regularly hosts free, intimate concerts by Icelandic musicians. It’s a cozy place where you can discover local talent, sip espresso, and flip through vinyl all at once. Music lovers, this is your sanctuary.

Get Out There & Enjoy Music in ReykjavikSo whether you’re looking for a symphony under stunning architecture, an underground rock show, an intimate acoustic set in a bookstore, or Cuban rhythms in Kópavogur — Reykjavík’s live music scene has something for everyone.

As always, I’ll include links to each venue and the upcoming show at Salurinn in the show notes. Be sure to check them out and support these incredible artists and spaces keeping Iceland’s musical spirit alive and thriving.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe Guardian wrote an article last year titled “Torn down for hotel rooms: Iceland’s famous music venues swallowed by tourism”

Reykjavík’s once-thriving live music scene is under pressure as the city grapples with the effects of a booming tourism industry. With more visitors arriving each year, demand for hotels and short-term accommodations has surged. In response, several beloved music venues have been closed or repurposed to make way for new developments — including Kex Hostel, Sirkus, Nasa, and Faktory — spaces that once played a vital role in launching and supporting Icelandic music talent.

This shift has sparked concern among local musicians and cultural advocates who worry that the closure of small to mid-sized venues could damage the ecosystem that helps new artists grow. These smaller spaces have long served as stepping stones for creatives before they reach larger stages.

Recognizing the issue, Icelandic authorities are beginning to implement policies and provide funding to help preserve what’s left of the local music infrastructure. The hope is to find a balance between economic gains from tourism and protecting Reykjavík’s cultural identity, especially its globally admired music scene.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeTónlist – music

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I’m taking you on a journey back in time to uncover the story behind how Iceland got its name. This tale involves three adventurous Norsemen who each left their mark on this rugged island, but only one name endured through history.

The First Two Vikings That Tried to Name The LandmassTo hear the whole story about the first two Vikings that named this country, I have included that in The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland.

I created The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland, a comprehensive 8-module video guide that walks you through everything you need to know before visiting. I even have a whole module dedicated to Icelandic History in a Nutshell, where I talk about how Iceland was formed, settlement, the transition from paganism to Christianity, and tons more.

Not only that, but when you get the guide, you’ll have lifetime access, bonus itineraries to make planning easier, and access to my free and private Facebook group, where I share specially curated Iceland travel posts and do a live Q&A each month!

If you want to feel completely confident and stress-free about your trip, you can check out The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland

The Viking That Named IcelandIn 868 AD, a Viking named Flóki Vilgerðarson set sail from Norway with the full intention of settling in Iceland. He wasn’t just any Viking—he was known as Hrafna-Flóki or “Raven Flóki.” He got this nickname because he brought three ravens with him to help navigate the open seas.

Once he reached the Faroe Islands, Flóki released his ravens one by one. The first flew back toward the Faroes, the second circled and returned to the boat, and the third flew northwest and never came back. Flóki, believing this meant land was nearby, followed the third raven—and sure enough, he reached Iceland.

Flóki and his companions settled in Vatnsfjörður in the Westfjords. The summer was warm and full of fish, so they focused all their efforts on fishing instead of preparing for the harsh winter ahead. When the cold finally set in, disaster struck. Without enough hay, all their livestock perished. By spring, they had no choice but to leave.

Before departing, Flóki climbed a mountain and looked out over the fjords. He saw thick ice covering the waters and, in his frustration, named the land Ísland—Iceland. Unlike the previous names, this one stuck, and the island has been called Iceland ever since.

A Viking’s Regret & A Land of Opportunity What’s fascinating is that when Flóki returned to Norway, he had nothing good to say about Iceland. He believed it was a harsh, uninhabitable land. However, one of his crew members, Thorólf, disagreed.

He spread rumors that Iceland was so abundant that butter dripped from every blade of grass! This contrasting view sparked curiosity, and soon, more settlers followed, leading to the beginning of permanent Norse settlement in Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeBeyond the Viking Names: Ultima Thule & Nordic Identity Before Iceland had an official name, ancient Roman and Greek texts referred to mysterious lands in the far north as Ultima Thule, meaning “the farthest place beyond the known world.”

In the Middle Ages, some maps labeled Iceland as Thule and Greenland as Ultima Thule. Interestingly, by the 19th century, people started associating Thule with Norway instead.

While Iceland’s name may have been given by a frustrated Viking, the settlers who followed developed a strong sense of identity as Íslendingar—people of Iceland. Despite their ties to the greater Nordic world, they wanted to maintain their distinct culture, which still thrives today.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÁfram Ísland – Let’s go Iceland!

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I’m diving into an important yet often overlooked aspect of driving in Iceland—the unique rules of two-lane roundabouts. Even if you are from Europe, there is a good chance that Iceland does two-lane roundabouts a little different than what you expect.

How to Save Money on Your Rental Car in IcelandBefore we get into that, I want to give a shout-out to our amazing sponsors, Go Car Rental Iceland and Go Campers. If you’re planning a trip and need a reliable rental car from a company with great customer service, use my code Iceland10 to save 10% with Go Car Rental Iceland.

And if you’re looking for the ultimate camper van experience, Go Campers has you covered! Use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your camper rental.

Why Are Iceland’s Two-Lane Roundabouts Unique? Roundabouts exist in many countries, but Iceland’s two-lane roundabouts come with specific rules that often catch foreign drivers off guard. If you’ve ever rented a car in Iceland or plan to, knowing these rules will save you a lot of confusion—and possibly a fender bender!

The key thing to know about Iceland’s two-lane roundabouts is that the inner lane (the one closest to the center) has the right of way. This is different from many other countries where the outer lane might have priority. Here’s how it works:

When entering a two-lane roundabout, you should choose your lane before entering.
- If you plan to take the first exit, you should be in the outer lane (right lane).
- If you plan to go straight or take any further exits, you should be in the inner lane (left lane).
Once inside the roundabout, changing lanes is not allowed. This means if you entered in the inner lane, you must continue in that lane until you exit.
If you’re in the outer lane and another driver is in the inner lane, you must yield to the inner lane driver if they need to exit. This is where most accidents happen because foreign drivers don’t expect this rule.
When exiting, use your turn signal to indicate your intention, just like you would in any other roundabout.

Two-Lane Roundabout Example in IcelandThe first image shows two cars entering a two-lane roundabout in Iceland. The orange car is in the inside lane (left) and the pink car is in the outer land (right).

Below shows the the exits that the pink car (outer lane) can take.

And here are the exits that the orange car (inner lane) can take.

This example is showing if the orange car is entering the two-lane roundabout in the inner lane on the bottom and the pink car is coming from the right in t he outerlane.

As a reminder, the pink car can either go to the first or second exit. In this example, it will be going to the second exit.

Since the pink car and the orange car are in close proximity to each other, the pink car is the one that gives the right of way, since the orange car is in the inner lane.

The pink car (outer lane) must stop and let the orange car (inner lane) exit before continuing on to its second exit.

Why These Rules Matter?Iceland’s road system is designed to keep traffic flowing smoothly, and roundabouts play a big role in that. However, every year, rental car companies report minor accidents in roundabouts because of misunderstandings about these rules. The last thing you want is to start your Iceland adventure with an accident or a costly insurance claim!

The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to IcelandWhether it’s your first time visiting Iceland or you have been several times before, this guide will help you explore Iceland like a local.
From the best things to see in every region of the country to hidden gems, I have you covered.

Click Here

The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland I created The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland, a comprehensive 8-module video guide that walks you through everything you need to know before visiting. I even have a whole module dedicated to getting around Iceland, covering types of transportation, car rentals, road rules, and so much more.

Random Fact of the EpisodeYou might notice that as you venture outside of the downtown Reykjavík area, that you will see less traffic lights, occasionally roundabouts, and long stretches of road. One of the many things I enjoy about the Icelandic countryside is that traffic lights are not necessary.

Roundabouts are used, when necessary, at intersections to slow vehicles down and allow for cars to head in different directions.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeHringtorg – roundabout

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If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Iceland but felt overwhelmed with all the planning, or you’re just not sure how to make the most of your time here, then you’re in luck because I have the perfect solution.

The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland is officially live! And in today’s episode, I’m going to break down exactly how this brand-new video guide can help you experience Iceland like a local, save time and money, and remove the guesswork from your trip.

Plus, if you act fast, there are exclusive bonuses available until March 1st—One of those bonuses in particular can potentially save you hundreds of dollars. So let’s get into it!”

The Planning Struggle & Why This Guide ExistsI often hear from my followers on social media and from the hundreds of people that I have personally helped plan a trip to Iceland via my private consultations, that planning a trip to Iceland can be overwhelming.

There’s so much information out there, and it’s hard to know what’s actually useful. Should you rent a car or book tours? What’s the best time to visit? How do you budget for food, fuel, and attractions? And then there’s the weather—unpredictable, wild, and capable of changing in an instant.

I created The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland because I’ve seen firsthand how travelers struggle with these exact questions. I have been living in and traveling around Iceland for 8.5 years, and I’ve taken my experience and knowledge and distilled it into this guide so you can skip the overwhelm and enjoy creating a trip of a lifetime.

Over the years, I’ve shared tons of tips on this podcast, on my website, and through my social media, but there is still so much that I haven’t shared. Plus, I wanted to take my ability to help travelers to the next level and create a single, comprehensive resource that answers all these questions—and more.”

What’s Inside The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland?It’s an easy-to-follow, self-paced video course broken down into eight in-depth modules that cover everything you need to know to plan your Iceland adventure. Let me walk you through them:

Icelandic History in a Nutshell – A quick yet fascinating overview of Iceland’s history, from Viking settlement to modern times.
The Spectacular Regions of Iceland – A breakdown of Iceland’s diverse landscapes and what makes each region special.
When to Visit Iceland – A guide to Iceland’s seasons, weather patterns, and how to choose the best time for your trip.
Getting Organized – Everything you need to know about planning your itinerary, booking accommodations, and securing activities.
Budgeting, Managing Expectations & Icelandic Phrases – Tips on how to budget wisely, avoid surprises, and learn useful Icelandic phrases for your trip.
Safety & Emergency Services – Essential information on staying safe while traveling in Iceland, including emergency contacts and weather precautions.
Getting Around Iceland – A deep dive into transportation options, from renting a car to taking buses and domestic flights.
Top Tips for Eating & Shopping in Iceland – How to navigate Iceland’s food scene and shop smart while traveling.

Each module is packed with practical tips, real-world insights, and things I’ve learned from living in Iceland and interacting with thousands of travelers over the years.

Included with those 8 modules is a private Facebook Group with likeminded travelers where I will post curated content and doing monthly group Q&A’s. There are also very detailed sample itineraries for 5-days, 7-days and 10-days, so you don’t have to start from scratch when it comes to making a travel plan. You can add or subtract from these itineraries in any way that suits you.

Exclusive Bonuses – Available Until March 1st!“Now, here’s the part you don’t want to miss. Because The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland has just launched, I’m offering some amazing bonuses for those who sign up before March 1st! These bonuses include:

A 15% Discount For a Car Rental with Go Car Rental Iceland: Save big on the renting a car in Iceland with this huge discount, which is not available anywhere else.
A Free Icelandic Language Class from Óskar Speaking Viking: Get access to free a live class that will an introduce you to the Icelandic language. You’ll learn some great phrases that you can use during your trip from Óskar, an awesome Icelandic teacher.
My Iceland Trip Planning Cheat Sheet: An instant download delivered to your in-box of my cheat sheet about how to plan a trip to Iceland. While the guide goes way more in-depth, this cheat sheet will provide key points to know for starting to plan your trip. This is not available anywhere else.
20% Off My Iceland Map: I have created a map with hundreds of my recommendations around the country that you can use while exploring Iceland.

These bonuses will disappear after March 1st, so if you’re planning a trip in 2024 or beyond, now is the perfect time to grab the guide!”

Why The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland is Different?You might be wondering—why should you choose The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland over just Googling information?

Here’s the thing: Iceland is a unique destination, and standard travel advice doesn’t always apply here. This guide isn’t just generic information—it’s real, actionable advice from someone who has helped countless travelers navigate Iceland with confidence. No more wasting hours piecing together conflicting advice from blogs and YouTube videos. Everything you need is in one place!

How to Get the Guide?Alright, so how do you get access? It’s super easy. Just go to The Savvy Traveler’s Guide (link in the description and in the Trip Planning help tab sin the main navigation to sign up. Once you sign up, you’ll get instant access to all the modules and bonuses.

And remember—if you sign up before March 1st, you’ll also get access to those exclusive launch bonuses.

I want you to feel excited about your trip to Iceland, not stressed out by all the logistics. This guide is your key to experiencing Iceland like a local, making the most of your time, and avoiding the common mistakes that so many travelers make.

The Random Fact of the Episode:There are over 50 videos and more than 12 hours of content spread across the 8 in-depth modules of the Savvy Travelers Guide to Iceland. You will see me onscreen in the videos and using visuals to showcase stunning places around the country, what to pack, types of accommodations and so much more.

The Icelandic Word of the Episodeleiðarvísir – guide

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Whether you’ve visited Iceland before or you’re planning your dream trip, you’ve likely noticed that prices here are higher when compared to many other countries. From groceries and restaurants to accommodations and activities, Iceland’s cost of living and travel expenses can be a shock to the wallet. But why is that the case?

I’ll break down the key reasons behind Iceland’s high prices, including geographic isolation, the dominance of a few large companies, high taxes and import duties, a small population, and the impact of tourism.

Plus, I’ll be sharing details on my upcoming live webinar, “Iceland on a Budget: 30 Ways to Spend Less and Travel Smart,” where I’ll give you actionable tips to help you maximize your experience in Iceland without breaking the bank. Let’s get into it!

Geographic IsolationIceland’s remote location in the North Atlantic significantly impacts its economy. With no land connections to other countries, all goods must be transported by air or sea. This means higher shipping costs, which are passed on to consumers. Everyday essentials like food, clothing, and electronics come at a premium because of the logistics involved in getting them to the island.

For example, grocery stores like Bónus and Krónan import a large percentage of their products, leading to higher-than-average food prices compared to mainland Europe or the U.S. A simple item like a gallon of milk can cost around 900 ISK ($6.99 USD).

The cost of fuel is also steep and can be as high as 330 ISK ($2.33 USD) per liter or about $8.85 a gallon, partly due to import costs and high taxes. This geographic isolation extends to supply chains for restaurants and retail, where prices reflect these transportation challenges.

High Taxes and Import DutiesIceland has some of the highest taxes in the world, and these contribute significantly to the high cost of goods and services. The standard Value Added Tax (VAT) rate is 24%, with a reduced rate of 11% on certain goods like food and books.

However, even with the reduced VAT, prices remain high. Import duties on certain items, such as clothing and electronics, add even more costs. For example, a pair of Levi’s jeans that might cost $60 in the U.S. can easily be $120 in Iceland due to taxes and import fees.

Cars are also heavily taxed, with import duties, VAT, and registration fees sometimes doubling the cost compared to other countries. This means that even everyday expenses like transportation, dining out, and shopping feel significantly more expensive.

Market Dominance by Few CompaniesIceland’s small economy means that a handful of companies dominate key industries, limiting competition and keeping prices high. The food retail sector, for instance, is primarily controlled by Hagar, which owns Bónus, Hagkaup, and other supermarkets.

This lack of competition can result in inflated grocery prices. Similarly, the telecommunications industry is led by Síminn, Nova, and Vodafone, all of which maintain relatively high service costs. The same goes for banking—Arion Bank, Íslandsbanki, and Landsbankinn dominate the financial sector, and their fees for everyday banking services can be steep compared to other countries.

The lack of competition in these critical industries means that consumers have limited options, and businesses have little incentive to lower prices. Even in tourism, major players like Icelandair control air travel, which can keep flight prices elevated, especially during peak seasons.

30 Budget Saving Tips for Iceland: Travel Smart and Spend LessIf you are not sure how to get the most bang for your buck in Iceland, I have something that will help you out. I’m hosting a free live webinar and you won’t want to miss it! This webinar is packed with practical, money-saving strategies to help you explore Iceland without spending a fortune.

Click Here to Register

Small Population and Limited MarketWith a population of about 370,000 people, Iceland has a tiny consumer base. This makes it difficult for businesses to achieve economies of scale, which would normally help lower prices. In many industries, goods are produced or imported in small quantities, leading to higher per-unit costs.

This issue affects everything from groceries to household goods. Additionally, because the market is small, international companies may find it unprofitable to operate here, further limiting competition. For example, while fast food chains like McDonald’s thrive in most countries, the franchise left Iceland in 2009 due to the high costs of operation after the economic crash in 2008. Many products that are considered everyday essentials in larger countries are treated as premium items in Iceland due to the cost of importing and distributing them.

High Wages and InflationIceland has some of the highest wages in Europe, with average salaries well above those in many neighboring countries. While this supports a high standard of living, it also drives up labor costs for businesses.

Higher wages mean that everything from restaurant meals to hotel stays comes with a premium price tag. In addition, inflation has been a persistent issue, causing prices to rise even further.

Iceland’s labor market is also influenced by strong unions, which negotiate higher wages and benefits, further contributing to increased costs for goods and services. Over time, these factors compound to make Iceland an expensive place to live and visit.

Tourism’s Impact on Housing and ServicesThe boom in Icelandic tourism over the past decade has led to an increase in prices for housing, accommodations, and services. The rise of Airbnb rentals has had a significant impact, as many property owners choose to rent to tourists rather than long-term tenants.

This has driven up housing prices and made it difficult for locals to find affordable accommodations. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in downtown Reykjavik can be upwards of 250,000 ISK ($1,750 USD) per month.

Beyond housing, the demand from tourists has also pushed up prices for restaurants, excursions, and even groceries, as businesses cater more to visitors than to locals. The cost of a simple meal at a casual restaurant can easily exceed 3,500 ISK ($25 USD), and a cup of coffee might be 800 ISK ($6 USD).

While tourism has been a major economic driver, it has also contributed to inflation and the rising cost of living in Iceland.

Limited Domestic ProductionIceland’s harsh climate and small land area limit agricultural and industrial production. As a result, the country relies heavily on imports for food and essential goods. This reliance increases costs, especially when global supply chain disruptions occur.

Locally produced food, such as dairy and lamb, can be costly due to the high costs of farming in Iceland’s challenging environment. The need for imports means Icelandic consumers pay premium prices for even basic necessities.

Iceland is undoubtedly an expensive place to live and visit, but understanding the reasons behind these high costs can help you plan better and make more informed decisions.

If you want to learn how to experience Iceland without breaking the bank, don’t forget to sign up for my live webinar, Iceland on a Budget: 30 Ways to Spend Less and Travel Smart.

Random Fact of the EpisodeFor some good news, Iceland’s Central Bank lowered its key interest rate by 50 basis points to 8.0%, in line with market expectations, following a drop in inflation to 4.6% in January.

Underlying inflation reached its lowest level in three years, and policymakers indicated that further disinflation is expected in the coming months. Fingers crossed that decreases continue to happen.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeDýr – expensive

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Whether you’re planning your first trip to Iceland or you’ve visited before, knowing the do’s and don’ts can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Iceland is a breathtaking country with unique cultural norms, unpredictable weather, and natural wonders that demand respect and preparation.

I’ll walk you through essential travel tips—things you should absolutely do to get the most out of your visit, as well as common mistakes to avoid. From driving safely on Iceland’s rugged roads to experiencing the hot springs like a local, these insights will help you navigate your adventure like a pro. Let’s dive into the essential do’s and don’ts for traveling in Iceland!

5 Do’s & Don’ts When Visiting Iceland1. Do go to local pools, lagoons and upscale spas.Iceland’s bathing culture is such a big part of life here and it’s lovely to relax in a geothermally warmed hot tub. Most people think that when I say local pool that I mean some run of the mill uninteresting place but in Iceland, the local pools are lovely and budget friendly.

For instance, the biggest one in Laugardalslaug has several hot tubs, including a saltwater one, an Olympic sized lap pool, a wading pool, a gigantic slide for kids of all ages (meaning adults too), a steam room, sauna, a cold dipping pool and lovely changing area. All of that is accessible at the cost of 1.389 ISK or $9.81 for adults, $1.41 for young adults aged 16-17 and free for children up to the age of 15. Every local pool has its own charm and there is almost 2 dozen just in the Reykjavík capital area and many around the whole country.
Places like the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon and other well known places to take a dip will cost a lot more. For instance, the Blue Lagoon is 9.900 ISK or about $70 for the lowest admission price for one adult. These places are extremely unique and I have enjoyed many visits to all of the lagoons and new baths around the country, so I don’t discourage going, but just know that you have local options too that are great.

Don’t go into a pool, lagoon, or hot tub in Iceland without showering firstOne of the most important etiquette rules in Iceland is showering thoroughly, without a swimsuit, before entering a pool, lagoon, or hot tub. Iceland’s geothermal pools and hot springs are an essential part of the culture, and maintaining their cleanliness is taken very seriously.

Due to the country’s limited use of chlorine in pools, washing with soap beforehand helps keep the water hygienic for everyone. Most public swimming areas have strict signage explaining the showering protocol, and some even have attendants ensuring compliance.

Skipping this step is considered disrespectful to locals, and you might be asked to leave. Icelanders grow up with this rule, so while it might feel unfamiliar to visitors, it is essential for keeping the pools enjoyable for all.

Do Travel to different parts of the country when you visitIceland is much more than Reykjavik and the Golden Circle. While the capital offers vibrant culture, history, and nightlife, venturing beyond reveals breathtaking landscapes, unique geological formations, and local experiences that make a trip unforgettable.

The South Coast is home to stunning waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, black sand beaches, and the Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon. The Westfjords, a lesser-visited gem, offers dramatic fjords, bird cliffs, and remote hot springs. The North, particularly Akureyri and Mývatn, provides volcanic landscapes, geothermal baths, and excellent whale watching.

The Eastfjords offer charming fishing villages and rugged mountains, while the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is often called “Iceland in Miniature” due to its diverse natural beauty. Expanding your itinerary ensures you experience the true essence of Iceland.

Don’t Only stay in ReykjavikWhile Reykjavik is a fantastic city with a lively atmosphere, it should not be the sole focus of your trip, especially if you’re staying for more than three days. Iceland’s main allure is its untouched nature, and the best way to experience it is by exploring different regions.

Spending all your time in the capital means missing out on towering waterfalls, lava fields, glaciers, geothermal hot springs, and the charming coastal villages that define the Icelandic experience. Even a short trip outside the city, such as the Golden Circle or South Coast, will showcase Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.

If you have a week or more, consider driving the Ring Road or visiting the Westfjords for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Diversifying your trip will leave you with richer memories and a deeper appreciation for Iceland’s raw beauty.

Do Experience the Majestic Nature in IcelandIceland is a haven for nature lovers, with vast landscapes that are free to explore. You can hike to breathtaking waterfalls, walk along black sand beaches, or marvel at volcanic craters without spending a dime.

However, some activities require professional guidance for safety and conservation reasons. Glacier hiking, ice cave tours, and highland trekking should always be done with an experienced guide. These adventures take you deep into Iceland’s rugged wilderness and offer insights into its unique geology and history.

Horseback riding on Icelandic horses is another must-do experience, offering a connection to the country’s Viking heritage. Whether you’re on a budget or seeking an adrenaline-filled excursion, Iceland provides an incredible mix of free and guided experiences that make your visit truly special.

Don’t Come to Iceland Without a Budget in MindIceland is known for being an expensive destination, so proper budgeting is essential to avoid financial surprises. Accommodation costs range from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels. Car rentals, while often necessary for exploring, can be pricey, especially with insurance and fuel costs. Dining out is also expensive, with even casual meals adding up.

To save money, consider grocery shopping and cooking some meals, opting for budget accommodations, and prioritizing free outdoor activities. Guided tours and adventure excursions can be costly, so research and book in advance to find the best deals. Setting a realistic budget ensures you can enjoy Iceland’s beauty without unnecessary stress.

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Do Drive Yourself Around IcelandDriving in Iceland offers an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure. With well-maintained roads, stunning scenery, and minimal traffic outside major tourist spots, self-driving is an excellent way to explore the country at your own pace.

Renting a car allows flexibility to stop at hidden gems and take detours when something catches your eye. However, driving in Iceland requires preparation. Winter driving can be challenging, especially from mid-December to early March, when roads can be icy, and storms are common.

If traveling in winter, stick to the South Coast, West Iceland, and Reykjavik, where roads are more frequently maintained. During other seasons, the Ring Road and more remote areas become accessible, providing breathtaking landscapes that make the journey as rewarding as the destination.

Don’t SpeedSpeeding in Iceland is not only dangerous but also strictly enforced with frequent speed cameras and hefty fines. Many roads are narrow, winding, and often covered in loose gravel, making high speeds risky. Wildlife, such as sheep, frequently wander onto roads, adding another hazard.

Driving conditions can change rapidly due to sudden weather shifts, so sticking to speed limits ensures safety for yourself and others. Additionally, respecting speed limits helps preserve Iceland’s delicate environment. Take your time, enjoy the stunning views, and drive responsibly to make the most of your Icelandic road trip.

Do Check the weather & road conditions before you head outIceland’s weather is famously unpredictable, and conditions can shift rapidly, especially in winter. Before setting out, always check the Icelandic Meteorological Office (vedur.is) for weather updates and road.is for road conditions. High winds, snowstorms, and heavy rain can create hazardous driving conditions, particularly in the highlands and remote areas.

Even in summer, fog and sudden rain can impact visibility. Planning ahead and being aware of conditions ensures a safer and more enjoyable trip. Packing appropriate clothing and gear based on the forecast is equally important, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.

Don’t Ignore the Storm Warnings & Road ClosuresIgnoring weather warnings and road closures can be extremely dangerous in Iceland. The country experiences powerful storms, sudden snowfalls, and high winds that can make driving treacherous or even impossible. Road closures are put in place for safety, and attempting to bypass them can result in getting stuck or even requiring costly rescue operations.

Many travelers underestimate Iceland’s extreme weather, but locals take it seriously for a reason. If a storm warning is issued, adjust your plans accordingly and wait until conditions improve. Safety should always come first when exploring Iceland’s wild landscapes.

Reminder: Get 30 Budget Saving Tips for Iceland in my Free Live WebinarMy free live webinar is packed with practical, money-saving strategies to help you explore Iceland without spending a fortune. If you can’t make it live, don’t worry—you’ll still get access to the recording. But for those who do attend live, I have a very special bonus that will definitely come in handy for getting the most bang for your buck in Iceland. Don’t miss out!

Random Fact of the EpisodeSpeaking of weather warnings. It’s only the beginning of February and we have already had two major storms. The last one earlier this week was a red warning for most of the country. There were wind gusts expected at up to 70 miles per hour.

Authorities advised against people even traveling to work in the city, so you know that travel in the countryside was absolutely not happening. There is widespread damage to some homes and building because of the storm. There were also some power outages in remote areas. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured because people heeded the warning and stayed in their homes.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeEkki – don’t

Ekki gera það – don´t do that

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In this captivating episode, I sat down with Christian Legère, the visionary behind Emerald Skies of Iceland, to delve into the mesmerizing world of the Northern Lights. As a seasoned expert, Christian has dedicated his career to guiding enthusiasts and travelers through the ethereal dance of the aurora borealis across Iceland’s night skies.

Northern Lights photo by Christian LegèreMore about Christian LegèreChristian’s journey began with a profound fascination for the natural wonders of the Arctic. This passion led him to establish Emerald Skies, a platform that offers real-time Northern Lights forecasts, comprehensive aurora activity information, and invaluable insights for both novice observers and seasoned chasers. His commitment is to demystify the aurora borealis, making it accessible to all who venture to witness its beauty.

Throughout our discussion, Christian shares his extensive knowledge on the optimal times and locations to experience the Northern Lights in Iceland. He emphasizes the importance of understanding solar activity, weather patterns, and the significance of minimal light pollution. Listeners will gain practical tips on how to enhance their aurora viewing experience, whether embarking on a guided tour or setting out independently.

A highlight of the conversation is Christian’s explanation of the tools and resources available on the Emerald Skies website. From detailed solar wind data to magnetometer readings, he illustrates how these instruments can predict aurora activity, ensuring that observers are well-prepared to catch a glimpse of this celestial phenomenon.

Moreover, Christian addresses common misconceptions about the Northern Lights and provides guidance on capturing the perfect aurora photograph. His insights are not only informative but also inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders that Iceland offers.

Questions I Asked Christian Legere During the Interview
Northern Lights photo by Christian Legère1. Where are you from and what brough you to Iceland? 2. When did your fascination with the Northern Lights begin? 3. There are so many different apps & websites to check out the Northern Lights forecast, what should people look for to get an accurate as possible prediction? 4. What makes your website Emerald Skies unique? 5. Tips you have for people who want to see the Northern Lights on their own. 6. How should people manage their expectations when it comes to seeing the Northern Lights? 7. What are some spots you recommend people go to and potentially see the Northern Lights? 8. What are your favorite Northern Lights sightings? 9. What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Contact Christian about the Northern LightsThe best way to contact Christian about the northern lights is via his website Emerald Skies of Iceland.

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Reykjavík has a reputation for being an expensive city. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Iceland or you’re a return visitor, this episode will highlight 15 fantastic activities you can enjoy at no cost while soaking up the unique atmosphere of the city.

I’ve crafted this list with both locals and travelers in mind, ensuring you get a taste of Reykjavík’s history, culture, and natural beauty without spending a single krona. If you’re someone who loves walking, taking photos, or simply enjoying the simple pleasures of travel, this episode is perfect for you.

Admire the Street ArtReykjavík’s streets are alive with color and creativity, thanks to the city’s vibrant street art scene. Murals, graffiti, and sculptures can be found on walls, buildings, and even sidewalks throughout the city. Many works are commissioned by local businesses or created during festivals like the Reykjavík Art Festival, showcasing the talents of both Icelandic and international artists.

These artworks often tell stories about Icelandic culture, folklore, or social issues, adding a layer of depth to your exploration. Walking through areas like Laugavegur, Hlemmur, and Grandi, you’ll discover a mix of playful, thought-provoking, and visually stunning pieces.

The ever-changing nature of street art ensures that no two visits to Reykjavík will be the same. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary art or simply enjoy stumbling upon surprises, the city’s street art is sure to leave an impression.

Visit Hallgrímskirkja ChurchHallgrímskirkja is one of Reykjavík’s most recognizable landmarks, drawing visitors from all over the world. This towering church, named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Pétursson, is an architectural marvel designed to resemble Iceland’s basalt lava flows. The striking exterior is a tribute to the country’s unique natural landscapes, and it stands as a symbol of Reykjavík’s skyline.

While the tower requires a fee to access its panoramic views, entering the main hall is free of charge. Inside, the church’s simplicity and minimalist design create a serene and spiritual atmosphere. The massive pipe organ, built by Johannes Klais of Bonn, is a highlight of the interior.

Visitors are often treated to organ recitals that fill the space with mesmerizing sounds. Outside the church, don’t miss the statue of Leif Erikson, a gift from the United States commemorating the Norse explorer’s discovery of North America. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful spot, Hallgrímskirkja is a must-visit destination.

3.Explore the Free Sculpture Garden at the Einar Jónsson MuseumThe Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden, located near Hallgrímskirkja, is a hidden gem that art lovers won’t want to miss. This open-air garden features a collection of works by Einar Jónsson, Iceland’s first sculptor, whose art is deeply influenced by Icelandic folklore, mythology, and spirituality.

The sculptures, crafted in bronze and stone, range from dramatic and thought-provoking to serene and whimsical. As you wander through the garden, you’ll gain insight into Iceland’s cultural heritage and the artist’s unique perspective. The peaceful setting, combined with the stunning views of the city, makes this garden a perfect spot for reflection and inspiration.

Best of all, access to the garden is completely free, allowing visitors to enjoy world-class art without spending a penny. The Einar Jónsson Sculpture Garden is a testament to Reykjavík’s vibrant art scene and its commitment to making culture accessible to all.

Take a photo at the Sun VoyagerThe Sun Voyager, or Sólfarið, is a striking steel sculpture located along Reykjavík’s scenic waterfront. Designed by artist Jón Gunnar Árnason, it symbolizes exploration, progress, and the eternal hope of discovering new horizons.

The sculpture, resembling a Viking ship, is often mistakenly thought to be a historical representation, but it is actually a modern work of art. Its sleek design contrasts beautifully with the backdrop of Mount Esja and Faxaflói Bay. Visiting the Sun Voyager is not only an opportunity to take stunning photos but also a chance to reflect on Iceland’s seafaring heritage and its deep connection to nature.

Sunset and sunrise are particularly magical times to visit, as the soft light enhances the sculpture’s contours and creates a dreamlike ambiance. A visit here is a moment of serenity amid the city’s bustling pace.

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Walk along Laugavegur StreetReykjavík’s main shopping street, Laugavegur, is a vibrant hub of activity and culture. This historic street has evolved over the years from being a practical path for travelers to one of the city’s most iconic and colorful areas. Laugavegur is lined with charming boutiques, cozy cafes, and eye-catching street art that reflects the city’s creative spirit.

Walking along the street is like exploring a gallery under the open sky, where murals and graffiti tell stories of Icelandic culture, history, and contemporary life. Visitors can also enjoy window shopping or stepping into quirky stores that sell everything from handmade Icelandic wool sweaters to unique souvenirs.

The lively atmosphere, combined with the picturesque backdrop of colorful houses, makes it an ideal spot for leisurely strolling, people-watching, and photography. In summer, the street often comes alive with outdoor music performances, while in winter, festive lights add a magical touch. Even without spending a penny, Laugavegur offers an enriching experience that captures the essence of Reykjavík.

Explore Harpa Concert HallHarpa Concert Hall, situated by Reykjavík’s old harbor, is a stunning example of modern Icelandic architecture. Its glass facade, designed by Danish-Icelandic artist Ólafur Elíasson, is inspired by basalt columns and reflects the dynamic interplay of light and color.

The building’s exterior is as captivating during the day as it is at night, when the glass panels light up in a mesmerizing display. Inside, Harpa offers a spacious and welcoming environment, with areas open to the public for free exploration. You can marvel at the intricate design details, take in the harbor views through the expansive windows, or simply relax in its tranquil atmosphere.

Occasionally, free events such as art exhibits, film screenings, or live music performances are hosted in the open areas. Even without attending a concert, Harpa provides a unique opportunity to experience Iceland’s thriving cultural scene and appreciate its innovative approach to architecture.

Stroll around Tjörnin PondTjörnin, often referred to as “The Pond,” is a tranquil oasis in the heart of Reykjavík. Surrounded by colorful houses and lush greenery, this serene spot is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection.

The pond is home to an array of bird species, including ducks, swans, and geese, making it a favorite destination for birdwatchers and families. In winter, the pond often freezes over, transforming into an ice-skating rink for locals and visitors alike.

During warmer months, it becomes a vibrant gathering place, with people enjoying picnics, yoga, or simply soaking up the sun. Nearby, you’ll find Hljómskálagarður Park and Reykjavík City Hall, both worth exploring. Tjörnin is more than just a body of water—it’s a beloved part of Reykjavík’s community and a picturesque spot to unwind.

Visit Reykjavík City HallLocated on the edge of Tjörnin Pond, Reykjavík City Hall is an architectural gem that combines functionality with beauty. The building’s modern design seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, featuring large windows that offer stunning views of the pond.

Inside, you’ll find a variety of exhibits and displays that provide insight into Iceland’s culture and history. One of the main attractions is the 3D map of Iceland, a detailed and interactive representation of the country’s diverse landscapes. The building also hosts art installations, photography exhibits, and public events, many of which are free to attend.

Beyond its cultural offerings, City Hall is a great place to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the views. It’s a peaceful retreat that combines learning with leisure, making it a worthwhile stop on your Reykjavík itinerary.

9.Relax in Hljómskálagarður ParkHljómskálagarður Park is a tranquil green space situated near Tjörnin Pond, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy Reykjavík’s natural beauty. This park is perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply lying on the grass and soaking in the serene surroundings.

The park is home to several sculptures, including the statue of Iceland’s famous poet Tómas Guðmundsson, which adds a cultural touch to your visit. During summer, the park becomes a lively hub for locals and tourists alike, hosting events, outdoor yoga sessions, and music performances.

In autumn, the trees display vibrant hues, creating a picturesque setting for a relaxing afternoon. The park’s proximity to the city center makes it a convenient escape from the urban bustle. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a quiet moment in nature or explore its artistic elements, Hljómskálagarður Park offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Reykjavík.

10.Enjoy Austurvöllur SquareAusturvöllur Square is a vibrant public space located in the heart of Reykjavík, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants. This square is a favorite gathering spot for locals, especially during sunny days when the grass is filled with people relaxing, picnicking, or catching up with friends.

At the center of the square stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, a prominent figure in Iceland’s struggle for independence. The square’s historical significance and lively atmosphere make it an essential stop for visitors. In summer, the square often hosts cultural events, markets, and live music performances, adding to its charm.

During winter, festive lights and decorations transform it into a cozy and inviting space. Whether you’re looking to people-watch, enjoy a coffee from a nearby cafe, or simply take in the surroundings, Austurvöllur Square is a delightful spot to experience Reykjavík’s community spirit.

11.Check out the old harbor areaReykjavík’s old harbor is a charming and picturesque area that offers a glimpse into the city’s maritime heritage. The harbor is lined with colorful buildings, fishing boats, and modern vessels, creating a lively and photogenic setting.

It’s a great place to take a leisurely walk, breathe in the fresh sea air, and watch the comings and goings of the boats. The area is also home to a variety of attractions, including the Maritime Museum and the Whales of Iceland exhibition, though these require an entry fee. For those on a budget, simply wandering around the harbor and enjoying the views is a delightful experience.

The nearby Grandi district is also worth exploring, with its mix of old industrial buildings and trendy cafes, restaurants, and art spaces. The old harbor is a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

12.Visit Nauthólsvík Geothermal BeachNauthólsvík Geothermal Beach is a unique attraction in Reykjavík, offering a mix of natural beauty and geothermal warmth. The beach features golden sand and a man-made lagoon heated by geothermal water, creating a comfortable spot for swimming even in cooler months.

While the hot tubs and changing facilities may require a small fee, access to the beach itself is free. The beach is a popular spot for locals who enjoy cold-water swimming, a traditional Icelandic pastime believed to have health benefits. Visitors can also relax on the sand, take a dip in the sea, or enjoy a scenic walk along the coastal paths. The surrounding area is ideal for picnics or simply taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Nauthólsvík is a testament to Iceland’s innovative use of geothermal energy and its commitment to creating spaces where people can connect with nature. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or a bit of adventure, this geothermal beach offers a unique experience in Reykjavík.

13.Walk Öskjuhlíð HillÖskjuhlíð Hill is a forested area in Reykjavík that offers a refreshing escape into nature. Located near Perlan, a popular museum and observation deck, the hill features winding trails that are perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling.

As you make your way through the trees, you’ll come across hidden gems like old bunkers from World War II and scenic viewpoints that offer stunning vistas of the city and surrounding mountains. The area is especially popular in autumn, when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, creating a picturesque setting.

At the top of the hill, you’ll find Perlan’s iconic glass dome, which you can admire from the outside for free. The combination of natural beauty and historical intrigue makes Öskjuhlíð Hill a unique and rewarding destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

14.Wander through Laugardalur Valley & Botanic GardenLaugardalur Valley, often referred to as Reykjavík’s “Valley of Leisure,” is a recreational haven that offers a variety of activities and attractions. One of its highlights is the Reykjavík Botanic Garden, a peaceful retreat showcasing a diverse collection of native and international plants.

Strolling through the garden’s well-maintained paths, you’ll encounter vibrant flower beds, tranquil ponds, and informative displays about Iceland’s unique flora. The garden is also home to a small cafe, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee surrounded by nature. Beyond the garden, Laugardalur features open spaces for picnics, playgrounds for children, and scenic walking trails.

The area is also home to the Laugardalslaug swimming pool, though access to the pool requires a fee. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a quiet escape, Laugardalur Valley offers a refreshing break from the city’s hustle and bustle.

15.Visit the Grótta LighthouseLocated on the western edge of Reykjavík, Grótta Lighthouse is a serene and scenic destination that offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes. The lighthouse is situated on a small peninsula that becomes an island during high tide, adding an element of adventure to your visit.

The area is popular among locals for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the tranquility of nature. On clear nights, it’s one of the best spots in Reykjavík to view the northern lights, making it a must-visit destination in winter. Sunset is another magical time to visit, as the sky transforms into a palette of warm colors.

The journey to Grótta is just as enjoyable as the destination, with a coastal path that offers stunning views and fresh sea air. It’s a peaceful retreat that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Random Fact of the EpisodeMenningarnótt or culture night in Reykjavík is usually the last Saturday in August. All the museums in Reykjavík are free to explore. There are also free events happening all over the city that day, like lots of musical performances, exhibitions, free classes such as yoga or dance. There is a huge concert in the evening and the night concludes with fireworks.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÓkeypis – free

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Today, I’ve diving into one of the most essential topics for anyone planning a trip to the Land of Fire and Ice—‘10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Iceland.’

From navigating Iceland’s famously unpredictable weather to understanding why tap water here is better than bottled, I’ll cover everything to help you avoid common pitfalls and fully embrace the magic of this incredible country.

Plus, I’ll share a few fun cultural quirks you’ll encounter along the way—like why Icelanders are so passionate about their local swimming pools.

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Weather in Iceland is UnpredictableIceland is known for having “four seasons in one day.” You might experience sunshine, rain, wind, and even snow within a single afternoon. Strong winds are common, especially in coastal areas, and can make conditions feel much colder.

Always carry a waterproof jacket, sturdy boots, and gloves, even in summer. In winter, icy roads and storms may disrupt travel plans, so keep an eye on weather forecasts using vedur.is and plan flexibility into your itinerary.

Iceland is ExpensiveExpect higher prices for everything, from meals at restaurants to basic groceries and fuel. Dining out can cost upwards of $30–$50 per person for a simple meal, so consider cooking your own food. Budget supermarkets like Bónus, Krónan, and Nettó are great for stocking up on supplies.

Many travelers also save by bringing snacks or dry foods from home. Accommodation, especially in remote areas, can be limited and pricey, so plan ahead to avoid overspending.

Driving Can Be ChallengingDriving in Iceland gives you freedom, but it’s not always easy. Gravel roads, sudden fog, and one-lane bridges require caution. F-Roads (highland mountain roads) require 4×4 vehicles and are open only in summer.

Additionally, Icelandic sheep roam freely and might cross the road unexpectedly! Use road.is for live updates on road conditions, closures, and weather warnings. Check safetravel.is for advice on traveling safely in Iceland.

Check out my Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland.

Cards Are King But Cash Can Be UseIceland is one of the most cashless countries in the world. Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere, including small towns, food trucks, and parking meters. A PIN is often required for transactions, so make sure your card has one. If you do want cash, ATMs are available, but you likely won’t need it unless you prefer tipping in cash (though tipping isn’t expected in Iceland).
Respect NatureIceland’s breathtaking landscapes are its biggest draw, but they’re also fragile. Stepping off marked paths damages moss and plants that can take decades to recover.

Hot springs and volcanic areas may look inviting but can be dangerous, with scalding water or unstable ground. Always follow signs, listen to local advice, and avoid littering. Stay safe while respecting Iceland’s pristine environment.

Plan for Daylight ExtremesIceland’s location near the Arctic Circle means daylight varies dramatically throughout the year. From May to August, the Midnight Sun provides nearly 24 hours of daylight, ideal for late-night hikes or photography.

In contrast, from November to January, daylight may last as little as 4 hours. This impacts your ability to explore, so plan key activities during daylight and pack a headlamp for winter visits.

Icelandic Tap Water is the AmazingIceland’s water is some of the purest in the world, sourced from natural springs and glaciers. You can drink directly from the tap, even in remote areas. Hot water from taps may smell like sulfur due to geothermal activity, but it’s completely safe. Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it as you go to save money and reduce waste.
Hot Tubs Are a Way of LifeGeothermal pools are a central part of Icelandic culture, offering relaxation and a chance to socialize. Popular spots like the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon are famous, but you’ll also find local swimming pools and hidden hot springs across the country.

Showering (naked) before entering pools is required to maintain hygiene in the communal water. Don’t miss this quintessential Icelandic experience—it’s perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

Pack for Outdoor AdventuresIceland’s rugged terrain and outdoor attractions require proper gear. Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots are essential for exploring waterfalls, glaciers, and lava fields.

A windproof jacket and insulated layers are crucial to stay warm, especially near windy coastlines or during Northern Lights hunting. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also handy due to the intense glare from snow and ice. Always pack a day bag with snacks, water, and extra layers for your excursions.

Book in AdvanceIceland has become a top travel destination, and its popularity means many attractions, tours, and accommodations book out quickly, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and December holidays). Car rentals are in high demand year-round, so reserve one early to avoid last-minute price hikes or unavailability.

The same goes for unique experiences like glacier hikes, whale-watching tours, or Northern Lights trips. Planning ahead ensures you get the best options.

Random Fact of the EpisodeMy first visit was in December of 2013 and that changed my life forever. I honestly never thought that I would get used to the sulfur smell from the hot water or know how to cope with the short winter days. With time all of that became no big deal and I love living here.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeLitið til baka – look backwards or hindsight

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Icelanders have gained a reputation for being laid-back, and welcoming, making their country one of the most delightful places to visit. However, like any culture, Iceland has its own unique customs and traditions that visitors might unknowingly overlook.

While Icelanders are forgiving, certain faux pas can unintentionally offend them. If you’re planning a trip to this stunning Nordic island, it’s worth familiarizing yourself with these six potential missteps to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience.

Not Taking Off Shoes Before Entering an Icelander’s HomeIn Iceland, homes are sacred spaces of comfort and cleanliness. One of the simplest ways to show respect when visiting someone’s home is to remove your shoes at the door. Icelanders prioritize cleanliness due to the often wet and muddy conditions outside, so tracking dirt indoors is a definite no-no.

Neglecting to do so can come across as careless and inconsiderate. If you’re invited into an Icelander’s home, look for a spot near the entrance to leave your shoes and step inside as they do—with clean, socked feet.

Calling an Icelandic Horse a PonyIcelandic horses are small but mighty—don’t let their size fool you. These resilient and unique animals are deeply ingrained in Icelandic culture, and they’re anything but ponies. Referring to them as such diminishes their significance and can offend locals who take great pride in this distinctive breed. If you’re admiring an Icelandic horse, feel free to compliment its beauty, strength, or unique gait known as the “tölt,” but never, ever call it a pony.
Not Offering an Icelander Some Coffee If They Visit YouCoffee is more than just a beverage in Iceland; it’s a social ritual. Icelanders love coffee and rarely pass up an opportunity to enjoy a cup, especially when visiting someone’s home. Failing to offer coffee to an Icelander can come across as thoughtless or unwelcoming. Whether it’s a casual drop-in or a planned meeting, have some coffee ready to serve. It’s not just polite—it’s practically a cultural obligation.
Not Showering Naked Before Entering a PoolIcelanders are serious about their pools and hot springs, and equally serious about hygiene. Before entering any pool, it’s mandatory to take a thorough, naked shower to ensure cleanliness. Unlike in some other countries, wearing a swimsuit in the shower is seen as unhygienic and can quickly earn disapproval from locals. It might feel awkward to some visitors, but rest assured, no one is paying attention. Embrace the custom—it’s an essential part of Icelandic pool culture.
Voicing Your Dislike or Disdain for LicoriceLicorice is a beloved treat in Iceland, and it appears in everything from candies to desserts and even ice cream. While you’re entitled to your own tastes, loudly declaring your disdain for licorice might be taken as an insult to the Icelandic palate. To be fair, most Icelanders will laugh if your initial response is that you don’t like it but harping on how bad it tastes to you or saying that you think Icelanders are strange for liking it, won’t go over well. Instead, consider trying a piece and appreciating the locals’ enthusiasm for their favorite flavor. Who knows? You might even develop a fondness for it yourself.
Being a Disrespectful TouristIceland’s natural beauty is one of its greatest treasures, but it’s also incredibly fragile. From walking on moss-covered landscapes to littering or disregarding safety guidelines, disrespectful behavior can cause lasting damage to the environment and irk locals. Similarly, being disruptive or inconsiderate in public spaces can tarnish your reputation as a visitor. Show your respect by following local rules, leaving no trace, and treating Iceland’s pristine landscapes with care.

Random Fact of the EpisodeSome years ago, my former in-laws came for a visit to my apartment for dinner. There was plenty of food and some dessert but my exz and I didn’t have coffee because we don’t drink it. At the time, I had no idea that having coffee to offer was so important. They were shocked and not very happy that we were not aware of this.

Well, the next time we had them over for dinner, I made sure to have coffee. The funny this is that they showed up with coffee too and a french press as a gift. They made sure that they would not miss out on having coffee. I had no idea they were planning to do that and they had no idea we had prepared coffee for them for the next visit. We all laughed about it and I learned a valuable lesson about the need to have coffee available for Icelanders that visit my home.

Icelandic Word of the Episodemóðga – offend

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There are two iconic and naturally formed ice caves in Iceland that have taken social media by storm. The pictures and videos have people from all over the world flocking to Iceland during winter to winter their beauty.

Table of Contents:* Save Money on a Katla Ice Cave or Crystal Ice Cave Tour * Best time to see an Ice Cave in Iceland * Temperature inside an Ice Cave * What to wear on an Ice Cave Tour? * Katla Ice Cave – Price, pros & cons * Crystal Ice Cave – Price, pros & cons * Which Ice Cave I prefer

Why are Katla Ice Cave and Crystal Ice Cave Different?Katla Ice Cave and The Crystal Ice Cave are relatively close to each other (2.5 hour drive apart) but they provide much different experiences. In this episode I will give a little insight about when to see naturally forming ice caves in Iceland (meaning ones that are not man-made).

I will also share the temperature inside of an ice cave, how to dress for an ice cave tour, the pros and cons of each ice cave tour based on my personal experience. I thought it would also be helpful to share the cost as of January 2025 for each along with what will be included, and which one I preferred after taking both tours.

Please know that both are absolutely stunning and worth checking out. Time in the country, daylight hours, the season, and cost play a huge factor for most people so I did my best to take that into account.

How to Save Money on the Katla Ice Cave Tour or Crystal Ice Cave TourBefore I jump into that, I would like to thank the sponsor of this episode, Arctic Adventures. I partnered with them to recently see these ice caves in two days. So, one ice cave each day because of limited day light hours and it was such a fun experience. You can use my code ALLTHINGSICELAND10 to save 10% with Arctic Adventures on either of these ice cave tours, and use mu code Iceland10 to save 10% on glacier hikes, and northern lights tours with the same company.

If you do use my code, you get a % off and I get a small commission, which allows for me to keep making fun and helpful content like this.

When is the best time to See Naturally Formed Ice Caves in Iceland (Katla Ice Cave & Crystal Ice Cave)?In terms of stability, safety, and stunning colors of the ice caves, winter is the best time to explore naturally formed ice caves. The ice cave season is usually from late November to March.

The time frame can change based on weather conditions for that year. Sometimes we have a cooler or warmer months, so the season might vary slightly from year to year for naturally formed ice caves.

I keep saying naturally formed because there are man-made ice caves here that pretty much keep the same shape and access throughout the year. I did an episode on the largest man-made Ice Tunnel in the world in 2024 called 7 Fascinating Facts I Learned Inside Iceland‘s Langjökull Glacier. Feel free to check that out if you are looking to explore a stable ice cave in a glacier anytime of year. As mentioned before, you can use my code Iceland10 to save 10% with Arctic Adventures for that experience too.

What is the Temperature inside of an Ice Cave?The temperature inside ice caves typically hovers around 0°C (32°F) and remains relatively constant regardless of external weather conditions. That often shocks people because the expectation is that naturally formed ice caves will be extremely cold but during winter they can often be warmer than outside the cave.

What to wear on an Ice Cave Tour?1. Thermal Base Layer: Wear a moisture-wicking base layer made of materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics to keep you dry and warm. 2. Insulating Mid-Layer: Add a fleece or insulated jacket to provide additional warmth. 3. Waterproof Outer Layer: Use a windproof and waterproof jacket and pants to protect against moisture and wind. 4. Warm Hat and Gloves: Bring a hat that covers your ears and gloves to keep your hands warm. 5. Water-Resistant Footwear: Choose sturdy, water-resistant boots with good traction to navigate slippery surfaces.

Additional Tips:

Dress in Layers: This allows you to adjust your clothing to maintain comfort throughout the tour.
Safety Gear: Some tour operators provide crampons, helmets, and headlights, so check with your provider for any specific recommendations or equipment they may supply.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland

Be fully prepared for winter in Iceland with my free ultimate packing checklist that has all the essentials you need for winter and summer. There are two separate lists and some non-essentials you can pack, if you have the space.

Katla Ice Cave TourKatla Ice Cave Tour is located in Katla Volcano and glacier, which is near the town of Vík in South Iceland. Vík is about a 2 hour and 30 minute drive straight from Reykjavík. Of course that can vary a little due to the weather, especially during winter. If the roads are clear, you can expect to arrive to that small town in that time frame. In order to access Katla Ice Cave, the tour includes a ride in a modified car with gigantic tires and other special aspects so that the car can drive onto the glacier.

The duration of the tour is 3 hours, if you meet at the meetup point in Reykjavik or 11 hours if you are transported from the city. The drive from the meetup point in Vík to the start of the Katla ice cave tour is about 40 minutes. It is a gorgeous area away from crowds and the landscape covered in snow in incredible to see.

Price of the Katla Ice Cave Tour (as of 2025)The cost for one person for the Katla Ice Cave Tour is $216. This price includes:

A ride in a modified car (called a Super Jeep in Iceland)
An English speaking guide that is certified to provide glacier tours.
A visit to the ice cave, crampons to walk on the ice (which is absolutely needed)
Any safetly equipment needed (like a helmet)

Pros of Going on the Katla Ice Cave Tour* The guides are very informative and engaging. * The ride to the glacier is beautiful because the landscape is breathtaking. * It is a very easy hike and you get two different locations that look so different from each other. * Saw awesome wid life like an Arctic Fox and a raven. Even though both are wild, the guides do bring little snacks for them so that seems to incentivize the arctic fox and raven to come around when there are tours. Hones * Conveniently located near Reykjavík so it can easily be done in a day * Not as many people at the glacier. At least there weren‘t when I went even though there were three vans in the parking area of the glacier entrance. The cool thing is that each group seem to be timed well so that we weren‘t on top of each other in the glacier. * The guide goes above and beyond to take pictures of you in different locations. Mention tipping * You have a lot more natural light flowing in that allows for better pictures.

Cons of Going on the Katla Ice Cave Tour* The ice cave is changing all the time. The look of the ice cave you might have seen on the internet can be different depending on the year you visit. Due to the glacier melting throughout the year and shifting. * The ride can be a little rough. The big tires help with it but it is still bumpy. * You get packed into big modified vans. * The size of the ice cave is small to medium sized. Compared to the next ice cave, I would consider the current cave to be small.

Crystal Ice Cave TourThe Crystal Ice Cave is located in south east Iceland near Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Weather permitting, it is a 5 hour and 6 minute drive from Reykjavík without stops. In order to access the Crystal Ice Cave, you have to ride in a modified van because the road to Breiðamerkurjökull glacier is very rough and can not be done in a normal car. I woudn’t even try it in a regular 4×4 car. The duration of the tour is about 2-3 hours.

Price of The Crystal Ice Cave Tour (as of 2025)The price of the Crystal Ice Cave tour for one person is $156. The price includes:

A ride in a modified car (called a Super Jeep in Iceland)
An English speaking guide that is certified to provide glacier tours.
A visit to the ice cave, crampons to walk on the ice (when needed but it wasn‘t for the cave we went to)
Any safetly equipment needed (like a helmet and light on the helmet)

Pros of Going on the Blue Crystal Ice Cave Tour* Affordable for most people’s budgets * You meet at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon or Diamond Beach, whichever your ticket says. The lovely part about that is the lagoon and beach are wonderful attractions to check out, so you get to check those out before or after your tour. I suggest being mindful of the daylight hours for your ice cave tour because. * The guide is very friendly, informative, and engaging. He does take pictures of you inside the cave and is offering certain places that would be best to have a nice photo taken. * It is only 20-25 minutes driving from the meetup point at the glacier lagoon to the Blue Crystal ice cave. * The biggest naturally formed ice cave you can currently access in Iceland. It is 100 meters (328 feet). All the guides on the tour that I heard speaking said that this the biggest ice cave they have been. Many of them have been guiding for five years or more. * Inside of the ice cave is huge and insanely gorgeous. If you look just from the outside, you would never know the incredible colors and world of ice that awaits you inside. I was a little skeptical when we first arrived but my mind was quickly changed once we were inside. * Short walk from the parking area to the entrance to the ice cave. However, that can change if they go to a different ice cave that is on Breiðamerkurjökull.

Cons of Going on the Crystal Ice Cave Tour* Lots of people from other tour companies. * There was a line to wait to get into the ice cave. I think we waited 30 minutes outside of the ice cave because of the amount of people. I sort of felt like I was at an amusement park. While I was excited about going into the cave, the wait made me question if it was worth it. * It is called the Crystal Ice Cave tour when you book BUT the guide might use a different name of the ice cave. The reason for this is that as new ice caves open up or appear, guides are coming up with different names. I remember our guide saying that this one might be called Blue Ocean or something along those lines. * You get packed into big modified vans. * Due to it being deeper inside the cave, it can sometimes be a little hard to see and take photos or videos. * If you are tall, be prepared to duck down quite low sometimes due to the varying heights in the ice cave. Not a big deal but something to keep in mind. Having a helmet definitely keep me from hurting my head a few times.

Which Ice Cave do I prefer? – Katla Ice Cave Tour vs Crystal Ice Cave TourI thought long and hard about which one I prefer because I honestly enjoyed both of them so much. If seeing both fits in your budget and time while traveling in Iceland, I say go for it. Based on what I experienced this time around in November, Katla Ice Cave edged out Crystal Ice Cave.

Here are my reasons that tipped Katla Ice Cave over as the winner:

The landscape on the way to the glacier was so gorgeous.
The two spots the guide takes you to are different and yet totally worth it. The first spot has a cool
Because there is a lot of natural light due to not being deep in an ice cave, it is much easier to navigate and take pictures.
See an Arctic Fox and raven was so much fun! We all kept a safe distance but it is not an everyday occurrence that you see these creatures in Iceland because they normally avoid human interaction.
Because it is only a 2.5 hour drive from Reykjavík, it can easily be a day trip if you are based in the city or an activity you do if you plan to stay out in the countryside.

As I mentioned, I truly enjoyed both ice cave tours and would do both again in a heartbeat, but I this is my honest opinion. Before I move onto the random fact of the episode, I want to thank Arctic Adventures again for this partnership and for them being open to me doing an ice cave tour showdown. To save 10% on each ice cave tour on their website, use my code ALLTHINGSICELAND10.

Random Fact of the EpisodeBreiðamerkurjökull glacier is the name of the glacier where the crystal ice cave is located. While the location of the cave can vary on the glacier, the biggest ice cave that I was talking about in this episode is not technically on the glacier because it is in something called dead ice.

As a glacier recedes, it might leave behind big chunks of ice. In this case, those chunks of ice where along a mountain ridge and covered in gravel and ash from previous eruptions. The gravel and ash kept the ice from melting away during summer and warmer days. A huge mass of ice is considered a glacier if it is continuously accummulating over time from compacted snow and is slowly moving downhill due to its own weight and gravity. Dead ice is not moving downhill and is no longer connected to the glacier that it originally was formed with.

There are ice caves being found on actual Breiðamerkujökull but the one I visited this time was in dead ice. The name of the ice might not sound appealing but ice cave is otherworldly when it comes to beauty and scale.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeBreiðamerkurjökull – wide, woodland glacier

I hope the breakdown of the Katla and Crystal ice cave tour has been helpful.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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Two married women argued about which of their husbands was the bigger fool. Finally, they decided to test their husbands to see if they were as foolish as they seemed.

Want more Icelandic Folklore Stories?This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing an Icelandic folklore story every Friday in 2024.

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The First Wife sets up the Trick for her HusbandOne woman played a trick on her husband. When he came home from work, she took a spinning wheel and carders, sat down, and started to card and spin, even though there was no wool in her hands. Her husband noticed this and asked if she was crazy to scrape the teasels together and spin the wheel without any wool.

He asked her to explain what she was doing. She said that it was no surprise that he couldn’t see what she was doing because she was making a very fine linen that was too thin to be seen with the eye. She told him she was going to make him clothes from this invisible linen.

Her husband thought this was a brilliant explanation. He was amazed by his wife’s cleverness and looked forward to the joy and pride he would feel when he wore these amazing clothes.
When his wife had spun enough “wool” for the clothes, she set up the loom and wove the invisible fabric.

Her husband visited her from time to time, marveling at her skill. She was amused and quickly finished the trick. She took the invisible cloth off the loom, washed and dried it, and then sat down to cut and sew the clothes.

The Most Invisible Clothes in the WorldWhen she finished, she told her husband to come and try on the clothes. However, she didn’t let him put them on alone. She pretended to help him dress, but in reality, he was completely naked. He was so sure that his wife had made him these wonderful invisible clothes that he didn’t realize he was actually naked. He was so happy with his “new clothes” that he couldn’t stop jumping around with joy.

The Other Wife’s Trick:When her husband returned home from work, his wife asked him why he was walking around looking so upset. Startled, he asked her why she would even think that. She insisted he looked upset and told him he was very ill and should go to bed immediately. He believed her and went to bed.

After a while, his wife told him she was going to perform the last rites for him. He begged her not to, but she insisted, saying, “Why are you acting like a fool? Don’t you know you died this morning? I’m going to have them make your coffin right now.” The poor man, believing this to be true, stayed in bed until the coffin was ready.

A Fake Funeral InterruptedHis wife hired six men to carry the coffin and invited the other couple to attend the funeral. She even had a window cut into the side of the coffin so her husband could watch what was happening.

The friend and neighbor of the supposedly deceased, who had on invisible clothes for the funeral, expected everyone to admire his “delicate clothes” (which were actually his naked body) as he arrived. Instead, the coffin-bearers, though sad, couldn’t help but laugh at the sight of him completely naked. When he saw them laughing, he cried out, “I would be laughing too if I wasn’t dead!”

The funeral was canceled, and they took him out of the coffin.

The consequences:It was eventually discovered that both wives had tricked their husbands. As punishment, they were publicly whipped in the parish court.

Random Fact of the EpisodeI did a hilarious prank on TikTok a few years ago for April Fools Day that was harmless but worked pretty well. I said that the Icelandic government decided to make English an official language. Surprisingly, even some Icelanders thought it was true and were shocked to hear the news until they realized that I was joking.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeHrekkur – prank

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A long time ago, a bishop was traveling, visiting different areas he was designated in Iceland as part of his duties. As was common back then, he had a group of servants with him, including a maid whose job was to cook his meals. One evening, after setting up camp on a mountain, everyone went to bed for the night.

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The Bishop’s Missing MaidTo everyone’s surprise, the next morning the maid was missing. Naturally, this caused a lot of alarm, and the bishop’s party searched high and low for her, but she was nowhere to be found. The bishop, being sharp and well-versed in local lore, suspected that she had been taken by elves.

Now, among the bishop’s servants was a man known as Jón the Giant. True to his nickname, Jón was massive and incredibly strong. The bishop called him over and said, “Jón, I need you to stay in my tent and keep watch. If the maid shows up, grab her and don’t let her go, no matter how much she struggles or begs. And be careful—she might try to trick you with lies to escape.”

After giving these instructions, the bishop grabbed his staff, stepped outside the tent, and drew three circles on the ground around it. Then he walked off into the night without saying where he was going.

The Strange Return of the MaidMeanwhile, Jón the Giant sat down on the bishop’s bed and waited, staying perfectly still. Time passed, and then—sure enough—the maid appeared. She wasn’t wearing any shoes and ran straight into the tent. She headed toward the bishop’s pillow, as if trying to retrieve something from underneath it. But John was quick; he stood up, grabbed her, and held on tight.

At first, the maid pleaded with him, claiming the bishop had sent her to fetch something and that she needed to hurry back to him. But Jón wasn’t fooled. He ignored her begging and held her firmly, no matter how much she fought and struggled.

While this was happening, the other servants outside saw something truly eerie: twelve men dressed in blue, riding on horseback, approaching the tent. But as soon as these riders reached the edge of the circles the bishop had drawn, they stopped abruptly—almost as if they’d hit an invisible wall—and vanished into thin air. The circles, it turned out, were magical barriers created by the bishop’s staff, keeping anything unholy or evil from entering.

A Tale of Elves and MagicNot long after, the bishop returned. He ordered his servants to tie up the maid until she calmed down, then left again. Eventually, the maid came back to her senses, and once she did, everyone was eager to hear what had happened to her.

She explained that, during the night, a man had come to her bedside, taken her hand, and led her out of the camp. She didn’t know why or where they were going until they arrived at a mound. Once inside, she found herself in a grand hall filled with people. At the far end of the hall, a group of women gave her a spinning wheel and some hemp and told her to spin it when she woke up in the morning.

But things took a strange turn. She said the bishop had appeared to her in that hall and told her to hurry back to the tent to fetch his keys from under his pillow. In her rush, she hadn’t even put on her shoes before running back.

Outwitting the ElvesAnd that was how the bishop, who was not only a holy man but also well-versed in magic, outsmarted the elves and rescued his maid from their grasp. This wasn’t his first time dealing with such mischief, and those who knew him believed he could’ve pulled off the rescue a hundred different ways. The elves didn’t stand a chance against him!

Random Fact of the EpisodeÞorlákur Þórhallsson is Iceland’s most famous bishop. He was the bishop of Skáholt from 1178-1193. Five years after his death on December 23rd, 1193, he was canonized as a saint. Pope John Paul the II declared St. Þorlak the patron saint of Iceland.

December 23rd in Iceland is called Þorláksmessa or Þorlákur‘s feast where a decent number of Icelanders eat fermented skate or skata. It is a type of fish that when fermented has an insanely pungent smell.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeBiskup – Bishop

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In the rugged highlands of Iceland, a troll named Bergþór lived with his wife in a cave called Hundahellir, nestled in the slopes of Bláfell. Unlike the fearsome reputation trolls usually have, Bergþór was a gentle giant, mild-mannered and kind—though not someone you’d want to provoke. Skilled in the mysterious “black arts,” Bergþór kept mostly to himself.

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The Tale of Bergþór the TrollNot far from the cave stood a farm in Haukadalur, where an elderly farmer lived. One day, Bergþór visited the farmer with an unusual request.

“When I die,” the troll said, “I want to be buried where I can hear the sound of church bells and running water. Please promise to lay me to rest in the churchyard at Haukadalur. As a sign of my passing, you’ll find my large wooden staff at your door. And as thanks for fulfilling my wish, you’re welcome to take whatever you find in the kettle by my bedside.”

The farmer agreed, and with that, Bergþór left.

A Mysterious DeathTime passed, and one crisp morning, the farmer’s servants stumbled upon a massive wooden staff leaning against the farmhouse door. When they told the farmer, he immediately knew—it was Bergþór’s staff.

Without delay, the farmer and his men prepared a coffin and set out for Bláfell. Inside the cave, they found Bergþór’s enormous body lying lifeless. Surprisingly, the troll’s gigantic corpse was remarkably light, almost as if it were hollow.

They gently placed him in the coffin, still marveling at the strange sight.
Beside Bergþór’s bed, they noticed a large kettle.

Remembering the troll’s promise, the farmer eagerly opened it, expecting to find a treasure trove of gold. But to his dismay, the kettle was filled with nothing but dead leaves.

The farmer’s anger flared. Had Bergþór tricked him? Still, one of the men decided to fill his gloves with the leaves, just in case there was more to them than met the eye. With the kettle left behind, they carried the coffin down the mountain.

Leaves Turn to GoldAt the base of the hill, they paused to rest. The man who had taken the leaves peeked into his gloves—and gasped. The leaves had transformed into gold coins!

Word quickly spread, and the farmer, now hopeful, rushed back to the cave with his men. But no matter how hard they searched, the cave and the kettle had completely vanished. Others who heard the tale also scoured the mountain in vain. It seemed that Bergþór’s magic had hidden the treasure for good.

In the end, the farmer kept his promise. Bergþór was buried in the Haukadalur churchyard, and the mound where the troll rests is still known as “Bergþór’s Mound” today.

Random Fact of the EpisodeHaukadalur Valley, located in southwestern Iceland, is a stunning geothermal area famed for its geysers and hot springs. Part of the Golden Circle, it features Strokkur, one of Iceland’s most reliable geysers, which erupts every 4 to 10 minutes, sending water as high as 30 meters into the air.

Nearby is the iconic Great Geysir, which gave its name to geysers worldwide. Although Geysir rarely erupts now, it remains a significant natural feature. The valley also boasts over 40 smaller hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles, offering a dynamic and colorful geothermal landscape.

Haukadalsskógur, the valley’s forest, is a cultivated area that began as a reforestation project in the 1930s to combat severe soil erosion. It features marked hiking trails, including wheelchair-accessible paths, and is a serene spot for birdwatching and picnics.

The forest contains various tree species, some commemorated on a totem pole, symbolizing international connections. Nearby, the Beiná River runs through the area, contributing to its lush environment.

Icelandic word of the episodeBergþórsleiði – Bergþórs mound or gravesite

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From ancient times, Helgafell has been steeped in mystery and supernatural lore. Early settlers in the area believed this hill was more than just a geographical feature—it was a place of profound spiritual power. One of the first settlers, Þórólfur, held the hill in such high regard that he declared no one could even glance at it without first cleansing themselves. Helgafell was also a sanctuary, a safe haven where no person or animal could be harmed. Þórólfur and his sons were so devoted to this sacred spot that they believed their spirits would be taken into the mountain upon their deaths.

Want more Icelandic folklore stories?This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing an Icelandic folklore story every Friday in 2024.

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A Sacred Hill Steeped in LoreFrom ancient times, Helgafell (which translates to “Sacred Hill”) has been steeped in mystery and supernatural lore. Early settlers in the area believed this hill was more than just a geographical feature—it was a place of profound spiritual power.

One of the first settlers, Þórólfur, held the hill in such high regard that he declared no one could even glance at it without first cleansing themselves. Helgafell was also a sanctuary, a safe haven where no person or animal could be harmed. Þórólfur and his sons were so devoted to this sacred spot that they believed their spirits would be taken into the mountain upon their deaths.

From Pagan Worship to Christian ReverenceBefore Iceland converted to Christianity, the people who revered Helgafell were pagans who worshiped the Norse gods like Þór (Thor) and Óðinn (Odin). Interestingly, the hill’s sacred status endured even after Christianity became the dominant religion.

Monks eventually built a small chapel on Helgafell, and though it’s no longer standing, you can still see the faint remnants of its stone foundation today. The hill’s spiritual significance seems to transcend belief systems, making it a symbol of both ancient traditions and new religious practices.

The Mystical Ritual of the Three WishesOne of the most fascinating traditions tied to Helgafell is the ritual of the three wishes. For those curious to try their luck, here’s how it works: Start your journey at the grave of Guðrún Ósvífrsdóttir, a notable figure from Icelandic sagas, located nearby. As you climb the hill, you must remain completely silent—no words, no turning back.

Once you reach the top, stand by the old chapel ruins, face east, and make three heartfelt wishes. But there’s a catch! Your wishes must come from a place of pure intentions—they can’t harm anyone, and you can’t tell anyone what you wished for. Over the centuries, many have claimed success with this tradition, swearing by the power of Helgafell to grant their desires.

A Must-Visit Spot in the Snæfellsnes PeninsulaIf you ever find yourself in the northern part of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, consider visiting Helgafell. Whether or not you believe in its mystical power, the experience is sure to leave you with a sense of awe and connection to Iceland’s rich folklore.

From its ancient Norse roots to its enduring Christian connections, Helgafell offers visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of history, tradition, and spirituality—all while taking in the breathtaking beauty of the Icelandic landscape.

Random Fact of the EpisodeMy personal experience with climbing Helgafell was so much fun. There were even two farm dogs from nearby that followed me up the mountain. They were also silent and great companions. I honestly could not have asked for a better and more fun time hiking that mountain.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeHelgafell – holy mountain or sacred hill

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Today, I’m tackling a topic that often confuses visitors—tipping culture in Iceland. If you’re used to tipping as a standard practice in your home country, Iceland’s approach might surprise you!

This is a question I have gotten quite often in the “Ask Jewells Anything” segment of the podcast, so I am doing a separate episode on it.

Is Tipping Expected in Iceland?In Iceland, tipping is generally not expected, nor is it a significant part of the service industry. This stems from the country’s strong labor laws, which ensure that workers receive fair wages, eliminating the need to rely on gratuities.

Service charges are often already included in the price you pay, making tipping unnecessary. However, showing appreciation for exceptional service with a small tip is possible but not obligatory. For instance, if you see a small tipping jar at a café, those funds might be used for the employees to have a fun social gathering or it might be donated to an organization, like the Red Cross.

When Tipping Might Be Appropriate But Still Not ObligatedWhile tipping is not the norm, there are instances where it might feel appropriate to leave a little extra. If there is not a tip jar present, which is common that there isn’t, then ask the server or person if it is ok if you leave a tip. Don’t be surprised if the person tells you that they don’t take tips.

Restaurants: Rounding up your bill or leaving about 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated, though not required.
Guided Tours: A tip for a knowledgeable or entertaining tour guide is a thoughtful gesture. This is especially common among travelers who enjoy personalized or immersive experiences.
Hotels: Tipping hotel staff isn’t expected, but a small amount for exceptional service, such as arranging tours or special accommodations, can be a nice touch.
Taxis: It’s customary to round up to the nearest whole number when paying your fare, but even this is not mandatory.

Cultural Context About Why Tipping in Iceland is not CommonIt’s important to remember that Iceland’s relaxed attitude toward tipping reflects the fact that unions in the country protect workers so that they can make a livable wage. The agreements made by unions ensure that workers earn enough to cover their basic living expenses, reducing reliance on tips as part of their income. Unlike in some other countries, service workers are compensated well and don’t depend on tips to make ends meet.

Tips for Tourists1. Don’t feel obligated to tip—your Icelandic hosts won’t expect it. 2. If you’d like to tip, use Icelandic krona (ISK) for convenience. 3. If rounding up, keep it simple and let your gesture reflect your appreciation rather than following a strict rule.

Tipping in Iceland is one of those delightful cultural quirks that demonstrates the country’s unique approach to hospitality and fairness. Understanding this can help you navigate social situations and avoid overthinking the bill.

Random Fact of the EpisodeEven though I grew up in the United States and was used to the idea of leaving tips, I have become so accustomed to not leaving tips because of living here that I sometimes get a little shocked when I am visiting the states.

I was in NYC last October and I felt kind of silly that I almost forgot to tip when we went out to eat. I don’t know if that system will ever change in the US but it is very nice to go out to eat and know that the price on the menu is exactly what you will pay at the end of the meal.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÞjórfé – tip

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Sprengisandur is a barren and desolate highland plateau in central Iceland, located between the Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull glaciers. Historically, it was an infamous north-south route connecting various regions, including access to the Alþingi (Iceland’s parliament) at Þingvellir during medieval times.

This route, however, was fraught with extreme challenges, making it one of the most feared and avoided paths of the Icelandic interior.

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Why Sprengisandur was so dangerous for Icelanders?Travelers faced vast stretches of uninhabited terrain, where no shelter, food, or water was available for miles. The volcanic ash deserts offered no forage for horses, and the journey had to be completed swiftly, often pushing horses to their limits. The route was also steeped in superstition, with tales of ghosts and spirits haunting the desolate sands adding to its ominous reputation.

Today, a gravel road roughly follows the ancient trail, accessible only in summer, and is popular among adventurous travelers equipped with robust vehicles. It offers dramatic views of glaciers, mountains, and volcanic landscapes, preserving its mystique as one of Iceland’s most challenging historical route.

A Chilling Tale of A Man Who Tried to Cross Sprengisandur for LoveThere was a man named Starkaður who lived in northern Iceland but the woman he loved lived in the far south. Driven by love, Starkaður decided to make the long journey across the harsh and desolate Sprengisandur to see her.

Tragically, he was caught in a fierce storm along the way and succumbed to the freezing conditions beneath a rock. That rock, now called Starkaðarsteinn (Starkaður’s Rock), marks the spot where he died. The surrounding area was also named in his memory, becoming known as Starkaðarver.

Around the time of his death, his love had a vivid dream in which Starkaður appeared to her. In this dream, he recited a poignant verse:

“Sorrows and harms for a woman’s charms

men have often suffered.

Starkaður’s bones under the stones

still lie undiscovered.”

Random Fact of the Episode https://youtu.be/ogUgm3K8KVI?si=C2PWn9NRC0muBwIM

“Á Sprengisandi” is a well known Icelandic song about this desolate and dangerous black sand desert in the highlands. It means “At Sprengisandur” and warns people that if they do not travel quickly through this area, they can meet their peril.

Icelandic Word of the Episode The name “Sprengisandur” reflects this urgency, stemming from the Icelandic word sprengja, meaning “to exhaust” or “to burst,” referring to the strain placed on horses during the crossing.

Harsh weather, including strong winds and snow, compounded the danger, and travelers who ventured too late in the season risked becoming stranded or perishing from exposure.

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To celebrate the relaunch of the All Things Iceland online store, I am doing a 20% site-wide sale. This sale is only valid through Wednesday, November 27th at 11:59 PM EST or while supplies last.

Below are some examples of Iceland inspired gifts that you can get for yourself or a loved one this holiday season.

Iceland Inspired Gifts for the Holidays

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Many centuries ago, a mysterious woman arrived in the small community of Nes in Borgarfjörður. No one knew where she had come from, but her beauty and grace quickly won the respect of the locals. She settled in Nes and gradually took control of the entire estate, becoming its mistress. Her name was Snotra, and though she was admired, she carried an air of secrecy.

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The Mysterious Woman Challenges Her StewardOne day, Snotra appointed a steward to manage the estate and presented him with a challenge. She told him she would be leaving for the Christmas holiday, but when she returned, he must correctly guess where she had been. If he failed, he would forfeit his life. However, if he succeeded, she promised to reward him richly.

As Christmas approached, Snotra made preparations to leave. On Christmas Eve, she departed without revealing her destination. When she returned after the holiday, she asked the steward if he could say where she had been. He admitted he could not. Shortly after, the steward vanished, never to be seen again.

This same fate befell two more stewards, each unable to solve the mystery of Snotra’s Christmas journeys. Finally, a fourth steward was appointed. Like the others, Snotra told him he must uncover her secret or face dire consequences. The steward, however, resolved to succeed where the others had failed.

Christmas with a TwistAs Christmas Eve arrived, the workers retired for the night, but the steward stayed awake. Hidden in the shadows, he watched as Snotra slipped out of the house carrying a bundle. He followed her silently across the fields to the rocky shore, where she sat and unwrapped her parcel.

Inside were delicate veils. Snotra draped one veil over her head and threw another into the sea. As she leapt into the water, the steward boldly grabbed a veil and followed her. Suddenly, they were traveling through a swirling mist until they emerged in a land unlike any he had ever seen. The air was filled with the scent of herbs and fruit, and the landscape was lush with orchards.

In the distance, the steward saw a magnificent city surrounded by high walls. Snotra, now wearing her veil, entered the city gates to the sound of music and a warm welcome. She gestured for the steward to stay in a small building near two tall structures, from which he could observe what happened inside the grand hall.

Curious, the steward peered through a window and saw an incredible celebration. The hall was filled with people in splendid clothing, dancing and feasting. At the center of the festivities sat a noble man on a throne, and beside him was Snotra, adorned in regal attire.

One Event Changes EverythingNight after night, the steward watched the same scene: music, dancing, and Snotra by the man’s side. On the last evening, he noticed a disturbance. Two men approached the nobleman, reporting that a cow had given birth to twin calves, but one was dead. The two women tasked with caring for the cow blamed each other for the calf’s death. The nobleman grew angry at the dispute, and the steward could see the tension in the hall.

When Christmas ended, Snotra prepared to leave. A grand procession escorted her from the city, with the nobleman leading her by the hand. The steward followed her as she retraced her path through the mist, arriving back at the same rocky shore. She removed her veil and folded it carefully, and the steward did the same before throwing his veil to her.

Snotra said nothing and returned to the house. The steward followed her and rested until morning. When the workers rose for their daily tasks, Snotra approached him and asked if he could say where she had been. The steward replied, “I cannot say exactly, but I saw two women arguing over the death of a calf, and it angered the King.”

The Curse was LiftedAt this, Snotra smiled and said, “Thank you. You have broken the spell that bound me. Long ago, I was cursed to leave my husband and live apart from him, only able to see him at Christmas.

The curse could only be lifted if someone discovered where I went during the holiday. You are the first to succeed. For this, I grant you all my estate and possessions. May you enjoy good fortune.” With that, Snotra disappeared, never to be seen again. The farm was henceforth called Snotrunes in her memory.

Random Fact of the EpisodeBorgarfjörður eystri renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant birdlife, and rich folklore. Nestled between rugged mountains and the sea, this charming village is a paradise for hikers, with trails like Stórurð leading to striking glacial boulder formations and emerald-green valleys.

It’s also a prime spot for puffin watching at Hafnarhólmi, one of Iceland’s best bird-watching cliffs. The area brims with Icelandic legends, including stories of elves said to inhabit the mystical Álfaborg rock. Visitors can enjoy serene nature, local culture, and stunning views, making it a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers alike.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeNes = headland

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a Folklore story every Friday in 2024. To hear other stories, I have shared so far, check them out on my website All Things Iceland.

A Young Girl and Her Prankster NeighborIn a small Icelandic village, there was a young boy who loved to play tricks and frighten a girl who lived nearby. He’d pop up unexpectedly, trying to make her jump. But over time, she became so used to his tricks that nothing he did could scare her anymore. Anything strange she encountered, she dismissed as one of his pranks.

One day, the girl was sent to the churchyard by her mother to fetch linen hung there to dry. As she worked, she noticed a figure sitting on a tombstone, dressed in all white. Instantly, she thought it was the boy up to his usual tricks, so she marched up, grabbed the figure’s white cap, and declared she wouldn’t be scared this time. With a smug grin, she returned home with the cap in her basket.

The Realization of a Grave MistakeBut when she arrived home, the boy was already at the house, greeting her with a puzzled look. Confused and unnerved, she sorted through the linen and found the cap she had taken from the figure. It was damp with mold and smelled of earth. Realizing the figure hadn’t been the boy, the family understood the girl had encountered a ghost. Fear swept through the village.

The next day, the ghost reappeared on the same tombstone, this time without its white cap. No one dared approach it, fearing the consequences. Desperate, the villagers called for an old man from a neighboring village known for his wisdom. He advised that the cap had to be returned to the ghost, in complete silence, by the girl who had taken it.

Returning the Cap & The ConsequencesSo the entire village gathered in the churchyard as the girl nervously approached the ghost, cap in hand. She placed it back on its head and asked if it was satisfied. The ghost looked up, a cold gaze in its eyes, and replied, “Yes, but are you now satisfied?” It then raised a hand, struck her, and she fell dead on the spot. Without another word, the ghost sank into the grave, disappearing forever.

Random Fact of the EpisodeWhile you might think that this story might make Icelander’s afraid of going to graveyards because they could encounter a ghost, this doesn’t seem to be the case. In fact, in the days leading up to Christmas and especially on December 24th, Icelanders can be seen in graveyards decorating the graves of their loved ones with candles and decorative lights.

If a group of them go, they tell fond stories of the loved one that they are there to honor. I find it sweet and interesting because you can see the graveyards lit up from a distance.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeKirkjugarður – graveyard

Literally translates to church garden.

Kirkja – church

Garður – garden

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Experiencing Into the Glacier in Iceland was like stepping into a different world—a frozen wonderland hidden deep within Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. It was truly mesmerizing to see the glacier from the inside, which made me feel like I was in the heart of an enormous frozen giant.

Is it Safe to Visit “Into the Glacier” Anytime of Year?When it comes to those wondering about safety, the Into the Glacier experience is indeed safe. The ice tunnels were engineered with extreme care, taking into account both glacial shifts and temperature stability.

The tour operators maintain the tunnels regularly, and visitors are provided with the necessary equipment, like crampons, to safely walk on ice. Additionally, experienced guides accompany each group, ensuring that everyone is informed about safety measures while they explore this icy wonderland.

The Adventurous Ride on the Glacier & Into the TunnelThe journey to reach this icy marvel began with an exciting ride in a massive truck, custom-built for navigating the rugged, icy terrain. This monster vehicle rumbled up the glacier for nearly an hour and a half, offering glimpses of the snow-covered landscape as we climbed higher. When we arrived, the true adventure began as we stepped into a small tent that led directly into the glacier’s inner sanctum.

Once inside, we were handed crampons, which are ice chains for your shoes, to safely walk on the icy surface. The temperature in the tunnels is a steady 32°F (0°C), so dressing warmly is essential. Moving through the tunnels, I was in awe of the surreal, radiant blue ice.

Being surrounded by walls of ice, created by a unique mix of nature and engineering, felt like discovering a secret known only to scientists and glaciologists—until now. The massive tunnel system, stretching through Langjökull, is an extraordinary feat that brings people right into the core of a glacier, something I had only dreamed of seeing.

There are several ice chambers that we visit, like the Chapel. People have actually gotten married in this chapel, which is pretty cool. I enjoyed exploring this icy wonderland and I think it is a once in a lifetime opportunity to be this deep inside of a glacier and it is stable. I learned so many cool things during this experience, including the facts below.

Experience “Into the Glacier” in Iceland at a DiscountI went on the “Into the Glacier” adventure with Arctic Adventures. If you use my code iceland10 with them for this trip and other experiences, you can save 10% on the cost of the tour.

Here are seven unique facts about the “Into the Glacier” experience:1. The Largest Ice Tunnel in the World: This man-made marvel is currently the largest ice tunnel globally, carved specifically to allow people to journey into the depths of a glacier. 2. Situated on Iceland’s Second-Largest Glacier: The ice tunnel sits within Langjökull, covering about 950 square kilometers and mostly standing over 1,200 meters above sea level. 500 meters long (1600 feet), 3 meters tall (9.8 feet tall), and 3.5 meters wide (11.5 feet wide) 3. Legend of the Troll Þórir: Near the glacier, Þórisjökull is a smaller glacier linked to a local legend about a troll named Þórir, who supposedly lived in a green valley between Langjökull and the smaller glacier. 4. A 2010 Vision Brought to Life: The ice tunnel was imagined in 2010 by Baldvin Einarsson and Hallgrímur Örn Arngrímsson, who wanted to give people access not just to the glacier’s surface, but also to its icy core. 5. Built with Scientific and Engineering Precision: The creation of the tunnel involved renowned geophysicist Ari Trausti Guðmundsson and a team of engineers who rigorously planned, modeled, and constructed the tunnels to withstand the glacier’s movements. 6. A Glimpse into “Blue Ice”: Inside the glacier, you can witness “blue ice,” which is buried deep within and has been compressed over centuries, making it denser and incredibly vibrant in color. 7. A Glacial Viewpoint Like No Other: When conditions are clear, visitors on top of Langjökull are treated to breathtaking panoramic views stretching across the Icelandic highlands.

Random fact of the EpisodeAmong the many things I learned on this adventure, one stood out that surprised me the most. For the longest time, I knew that a glacier is an accumulation of enough snow that transforms into ice. Over time, that build up can be quite substantial. However, the key thing that I either don’t remember hearing or never knew is that in order for this accumulation to qualify as a glacier, it must flow outwards and downwards due to the pressure of its own weight. We drove by the now former glacier Ok, which still has some ice but there is not enough for it to move downhill under its own weight.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeLangjökull – long glacier

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The Troll Woman & BjarniOnce upon a time, a farmer named Bjarni lived in Skaftafell. He was known for his skilled craftsmanship and resourcefulness. High in a cave above the Skaftafell Woods, there lived a troll-woman who had become a loyal friend to Bjarni. She watched over his sheep in the mountains and guarded his driftwood along the shore.

One harsh winter, the troll-woman visited Bjarni with troubling news: a ship had wrecked on the coast, leaving only one survivor. But this wasn’t any ordinary man—it was a wild, dangerous brute, and she feared he would bring ruin to all of southern Iceland if left unchecked. Without hesitation, she took up an axe and accompanied Bjarni down to the shore, where she bravely fought the savage and defeated him.

Generations passed, but the troll-woman stayed connected to Bjarni’s family, protecting them as she had him. To this day, people say her cave still stands above Skaftafell, with a skylight in its roof and a bed carved right into the stone—a bed so large it could only have belonged to a troll. And they say Bjarni, ever thoughtful, crafted the cave’s door and its sturdy fittings to make it a cozy home for his unusual friend.

The Troll Woman and EinarYears later, another man named Einar lived in Skaftafell. He, too, knew of a troll-woman. Once, while traveling through thick fog, he suspected the mist was no natural haze. Feeling uneasy, Einar took his axe and threw it far. Instantly, the fog lifted, and he was able to make his way home. But just as he arrived, one of his horses collapsed, and Einar found his axe lying on his doorstep—this time covered in blood.

The following year, Einar was setting off to cross the Skeidará river when he met a towering woman. She asked if she could borrow one of his horses to cross the water. At first, he hesitated, remembering how one of his horses had been strained the year before. But then, the woman explained it had been because of a prank he’d pulled. She showed him a scar where his axe had struck her, revealing that she was the one who had lifted the fog.

Einar believed her, and they crossed the river safely. During this crossing, the troll woman teased Einar a bit, which he did not take well. To get revenge, he went home and made a cooper gun. After tracking her down, the troll woman apologized for teasing him and they were on good terms again.

After that she vowed to do what he wished and his only ask of her was to not let anyone steal his driftwood. And so, the legend of the troll-woman and her friendship with the people of Skaftafell endures to this day, her protective spirit woven into the landscape and the lore of Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeSkaftafell is a stunning nature reserve inside of Vatnajökull National Park. In that area, you can hike to the Svartifoss waterfall or go on a glacier hike/ice climbing adventure. There are many hiking paths in this area and I highly recommend checking it out. During winter, there are ice cave tours avaiable on the glaciers too. If you plan to take a glacier hike here, feel free to use my code Iceland10 with Arctic Adventures to save 10%.

Icelandic Word of the Episodegoðsögn – legend

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Eyþór is an Icelandic antiquarian with an impressive rare book collection. For many years, he has been collecting and restoring rare books, some of which are important original Icelandic manuscripts. We sat down to chat about his collection and so much more.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkKR4qoW67A

Questions I Asked Eyþór During the Interview?* When did your fascination with antique book collecting and restoration start? * How many books are in your collection? * What is your process of restoration? How long does it take to restore a book? * Do you have any strange books in your collection? What is the oldest book that you have? * You’ve had many visitors to see your collection. Is there anyone who visited your collection that surprised you? * Do you ever display your collections to the public? * Where can people find you online if they want to follow along with what you are doing? * What’s your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

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This is episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a Folklore story every Friday in 2024. To hear other stories, I have shared so far, check them out on my website All Things Iceland.

Sleipnir’s Hoofprint: The Mythic Origins of ÁsbyrgiAccording to Icelandic legend, the stunning horseshoe-shaped canyon of Ásbyrgi was formed by the mighty hoofprint of Sleipnir, Odin’s legendary eight-legged steed. As the Norse god rode across the sky on his powerful horse, Sleipnir took an extraordinary leap, imprinting his hoof on Earth and leaving behind the shape of Ásbyrgi Canyon. This tale weaves Ásbyrgi into the fabric of Norse mythology, offering a mystical origin story that resonates deeply with Iceland’s cultural heritage.

Álfakirkja: The Elfin ChurchBeyond natural explanations, folklore suggests that Ásbyrgi served as a sacred gathering site for Iceland’s hidden folk, or Huldufólk. Often referred to as “Álfakirkja” or the Elfin Church, the canyon is said to be a place where elves and other mystical beings held their celebrations and gatherings. This enchanting narrative adds a supernatural charm to Ásbyrgi, further heightening its allure as a place where nature and folklore intertwine.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe initial carving (8-10 Million Years Ago) of Ásbyrgi began eight to ten million years ago, during a time of dramatic glacial floods from the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river. Likely triggered by a volcanic eruption beneath Iceland’s massive Vatnajökull glacier, these catastrophic floods began carving the canyon shortly after the last Ice Age, setting the stage for its iconic horseshoe shape.

About 3000 years ago, further glacial floods from Jökulsá á Fjöllum once again surged through the canyon, deepening and refining its form. This powerful combination of volcanic and glacial forces crafted Ásbyrgi’s unique shape, etching a story of geological transformation that spans millions of years.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÁsbyrgi – the Shelter of the Gods

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Who is Búkolla the Magic Icelandic Cow?Once upon a time, there was an old man and his wife who lived in a small cottage with their son. They weren’t particularly fond of him, but they had little else in their life besides a single cow, Búkolla, who was their most prized possession.

One day, Búkolla gave birth to a calf, and after helping with the birth, the old woman stepped away for a moment. When she returned, Búkolla was gone! The couple searched high and low but couldn’t find her anywhere. Furious, they ordered their son to find the cow and told him not to come back without her.

Trying to find BúkollaOff he went, into the unknown, armed with only some food and new shoes. As he walked, he grew tired and sat down to eat. “Bellow now, my Búkolla, if you’re out there,” he called out. Far in the distance, he heard a faint bellow.

Encouraged, the boy walked further. After some time, he stopped again, calling, “Bellow now, my Búkolla, if you’re alive.” The bellow was louder, closer.

Finally, he climbed to the top of some tall rocks, sat down once more, and called out, “Bellow now, my Búkolla!” This time, he heard her right beneath him. Climbing down, he found a cave where Búkolla was chained. He freed her and began the journey home.

Escaping Treacherous TrollsBut before long, he noticed something terrifying—a giant troll and a smaller one chasing after him!

The boy panicked, realizing the troll’s long strides would soon catch up. “What do we do, Búkolla?” he asked.

“Pull a hair from my tail and drop it on the ground,” Búkolla replied. He did as she said, and Búkolla spoke to the hair:

“Become a river so wide that only a bird can cross it.”
Immediately, a massive river appeared between them and the trolls. The larger troll, undeterred, ordered the smaller one, “Go fetch my father’s giant bull!”

The smaller troll rushed off and returned with a huge bull, which drank up the entire river in a single gulp.

The boy’s heart raced as the trolls closed in. “What now, Búkolla?”

“Take another hair and drop it,” she said. Once he did, she proclaimed, “Become a flame so high that even a bird cannot fly over it!”

A wall of fire erupted before them. But the trolls were persistent. The larger troll commanded, “Fetch my father’s bull again!” The smaller troll fetched the bull, which spat all the water it had drunk from the river onto the flames, extinguishing them.

Once again, the boy asked, “What do we do, Búkolla?”

“Take one more hair and drop it,” Búkolla instructed. “Now, become a mountain so tall that nothing but a bird can cross it.”

Búkolla Returns HomeBefore their eyes, a towering mountain shot up. The giant troll, furious but determined, sent the smaller troll to fetch her father’s bore-iron. With the iron, the troll drilled through the mountain.

But she was so eager to squeeze through the narrow hole she had made that she got stuck. And there she remains, turned to stone, unable to pursue them any further.

The boy finally returned home with Búkolla, and for the first time, his parents were genuinely happy to see him. Their cow was safe, and all was well again.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThere are many children’s books about Búkolla in Iceland. During Jónsmessa or Midsummer Night, cows gain the ability to speak among other strange things that happen that night. It is interesting how cows having the abiliy to talk comes up in Icelandic folklore.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeKýr – cow

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How Dimmuborgir was Said to be formed?Legend has it that Dimmuborgir, with its eerie rock formations and twisting lava fields, is more than just a natural wonder. Some say it’s a hidden gateway to a mysterious, parallel world – a realm where Iceland’s most elusive creatures reside.

Elves, trolls, and other mythical beings are said to call this shadowy place home, slipping in and out of our world through secret passages among the towering rocks.

In other tales, especially in Nordic Christian lore, Dimmuborgir takes on an even darker role. It’s believed to be the very spot where Satan crashed to Earth after being cast out of Heaven. From there, he is said to have forged the catacombs of Hell, using the strange landscape as his foundation.

For those who visit Dimmuborgir today, the air still hums with the legends of this supernatural past, making it feel as if you’re standing on the edge of another world.

Random Fact of the EpisodeIt is estimated that Dimmuborgir was created about 2,300 years ago after a huge volcanic eruption. It‘s a beautiful and sort of eery place. In North Iceland and can be part of your Diamond Circle route.

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Icelandic Word of the EpisodeDimmuborgir translates to “dark castles” or “dark cities.

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How an Icelandic Fisherman Caught a MermanMany years ago, there was a farmer living in Vogar, famous for being the best fisherman around. No one could match his skill, and his farm flourished because of it. One day, while he was out on the water, something strange happened. He cast his line into the sea like usual, but when he tried to reel it in, it felt impossibly heavy, as if he had snagged a massive catch.

To his surprise, when he finally pulled it up, it wasn’t just a fish—he’d caught a strange creature with the body of a man!

Startled, the fisherman blurted out, “What in the world are you?”

The creature responded calmly, “I am a merman from the deep sea.”

Curious, the farmer asked, “What were you doing when my hook got you?”

The merman replied, “I was adjusting the chimney cowl on my mother’s house to make it face the wind. Now, let me go!”

But the farmer wasn’t ready to release him just yet. “Not so fast,” he said. “You’ll have to serve me for a bit first.”

Without further discussion, the fisherman dragged the merman into his boat and rowed back to shore.

The Merman Notices Some Interesting Things About the FishermanWhen they reached land, the fisherman’s loyal dog ran up to greet him, barking happily and wagging its tail. But in a foul mood, the farmer struck the dog for being too excited. At this, the merman chuckled softly but didn’t explain why.

As the fisherman headed toward his house, pulling the merman behind him, he stumbled over a small hill. Annoyed, he cursed at it. The merman laughed again, louder this time.

Finally, when they arrived at the house, the fisherman’s wife rushed out to greet him, wrapping her arms around him affectionately. Pleased with her welcome, he smiled—only to hear the merman laugh a third time.
The farmer, now curious, asked, “You’ve laughed three times. Why?”

“I’ll only tell you,” said the merman, “if you promise to take me back to the sea and let me go.”
The fisherman agreed, eager to hear the reasons.

The merman began, “I laughed the first time when you hit your dog, who was only showing you honest joy. The second time, I laughed because you cursed the hill—yet beneath it lies a fortune in gold. The third time, I laughed because your wife’s embrace, though it pleased you, was hollow. She is unfaithful to you.”

Shocked, the farmer said, “I’ll believe you if I find gold in that hill. The rest, we’ll see.”

The Fisherman is Shocked at What He FoundHe immediately went to the hill and dug it up. Sure enough, he found a treasure of golden coins buried there, just as the merman had said.

Keeping his word, the farmer took the merman back to the sea. Before diving back into the depths, the merman said, “You’ve kept your promise, so I will reward you. Soon, you will come across something valuable. Be ready to claim it.”

Not long after, seven sea-grey cows appeared on the beach near the farmer’s land. They were wild and untamable, but the farmer noticed something unusual—they each had a small bladder attached to their noses. Remembering the merman’s words, the farmer chased after them, managing to burst the bladder on one of the cows. Immediately, the cow became calm, allowing the farmer to lead her home. The rest of the cows fled back into the sea.

That one grey cow turned out to be an incredible gift, giving more milk than any other cow in the land. She became the ancestor of a prized breed of grey cows, famous throughout Iceland.

The farmer grew rich and lived a prosperous life, but he never caught another merman. And as for his wife, well, nothing more was said about her after that, so we can only guess how that part of the story ended.

Random Fact of the EpisodeStories of Mermen often depict them as being very ugly with hands and feet. While they might not be pleasant to look like, mermen are not described as harmful to people and they are not evil.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeMarbendill – Merman who is the male counterpart of the mythical female mermaid, is a legendary creature which is human from the waist up and fish-like from the waist down, but may assume normal human shape.

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How Icelandic Necropants are CreatedImagine making a pact with your best friend—if one of you dies, the other gets to use the body for something truly bizarre: making a pair of magical pants. These aren’t just any pants though. They’re called Necropants, and they’re made from human skin, specifically from the waist down.

So, when one friend dies, the surviving one digs up the body, carefully peels off the skin from the legs (without making any holes, of course), and puts them on right away. Sounds grim, right? But here’s the catch—the pants don’t just sit on you like a creepy costume. They actually fuse to your body, becoming a part of you. You can wear them as long as you like, but eventually, you’ll have to pass them on to someone else if you want to keep the magic going.

But wait, what magic, you ask? Just wearing the pants isn’t enough to unlock the wealth. For that, you need to perform a twisted ritual. First, you must steal a coin from a desperately poor widow, and the timing is key—it has to be done during a church service, right between specific readings on Christmas, Easter, or Whit Sunday.

You then place this stolen coin into the “pocket” of the Necropants. And here’s where things get even stranger: that “pocket” is more like the, ahem, scrotum area of the pants. Once the coin is in, the pants magically start producing more coins. Free money, but with a dark price.

Why Some People Feel Necropants are Worth itBut these aren’t your average enchanted pants. If you remove the original stolen coin, the magic stops working. And then there’s the even darker part—when you’re ready to pass the pants to someone else, you can’t just hand them over. There’s a strict process.

You have to remove the pants one leg at a time. First, the right leg comes off, and the new wearer has to immediately put on that same leg. Once they’re in, there’s no turning back. Even if they try to stop, they’re cursed to wear the full pants, like it or not.
If you fail to pass them on properly, your soul could be in danger, and your body, once you’re dead, will be consumed by vermin. Some say these

Necropants are a gift from the devil himself, a symbol of the pact made with dark forces in exchange for earthly riches. But no matter how much wealth you gather, wearing them comes with a heavy cost.

Random Fact of the EpisodeA replica of what these pants are supposed to look like are in the Icelandic Museum of Sorcery and Witchcraft in Hólmavík in the Westfjords region of the country.

Icelandic Word of the Episode Nábrók – necropants

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This is episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a Folklore story every Friday in 2024.

How is a Tilberi Creature in Iceland formed?In the heart of Icelandic folklore, there exists a strange and eerie creature known as the tilberi in the north and the snakkur in the south and west.

This mystical being is said to be the creation of witches, conjured specifically to steal milk from the farms of others. Only women have the knowledge and ability to summon and control this creature, using it to enrich their own dairy supplies.

Though the origins of the tilberi stretch back into the misty past, tales of it weren’t written down until the 17th century. Yet, one account from that time recalls a witch being punished in the year 1500 for possessing one.

The ritual to create a tilberi is both chilling and secretive. At dawn on Whitsunday, a woman must steal a rib from a freshly buried body. She then wraps this rib in grey wool—wool that must also be stolen, plucked from a widow’s sheep just after it has been sheared.

For the next three Sundays, at the communion table, she spits sanctified wine onto the bundle, slowly bringing it to life with each ritual. Finally, to complete the creature’s birth, she lets it suckle from the inside of her thigh, leaving a wart-like mark as a permanent reminder of the dark deed.

Why is a Tilberi is Dangerous?Once created, the tilberi becomes an insatiable thief. The witch can send it out to steal milk from the cows and ewes of neighboring farms.

The creature, able to stretch itself, leaps onto the back of its target, wrapping itself around the animal to suck from one or even two teats at once. When it returns to its mistress, it perches at her dairy window and cries out, “Full belly, Mummy!” or “Churn lid off, Mummy!” before vomiting the stolen milk into her butter churn.

However, milk stolen by a tilberi bears a curse of its own. When churned, the butter forms curdled clumps or even melts into foam if a cross is made over it or a magical symbol, called the smjörhnútur (butterknot), is drawn into the mixture.

How Icelander’s Protected Their Livestock from a TilberiFarmers, plagued by udder infections and other signs of a tilberi’s presence, would protect their animals by making the sign of the cross beneath the cow’s udder or laying a Psalter on its spine. Though the tilberi was lightning-fast, if caught or pursued, it would flee back to its witch, hiding beneath her skirts.

But there was a way to stop the creature and its master. A brave soul could sew shut the petticoat of the witch, trapping both her and her creation. Then, they would meet a grim fate, either burned or drowned together, ending the dark magic for good.

This legend serves as a chilling reminder of the power of superstition and the mysterious bond between the witches of old and their strange creations.

Random Fact of the Episode If the woman who created the creature has a child of her own, a nightmare scenario unfolds. Should the tilberi, always hungry for milk, find its way to her breast, the consequences are dire—it may suck her dry, leading to her death.

Ridding oneself of this creature, however, comes with its own perilous ritual. To banish a tilberi, the woman must send it on an impossible task. She orders the creature to climb the mountain and gather every lamb’s dropping from the vast common pastures. In some versions of the tale, the tilberi is told to sort them into three piles, or collect all the droppings from three separate fields.

But the number three is the tilberi’s undoing. Being an evil creature, it cannot endure the power of this sacred number. As it toils endlessly, trying to complete the task, it either works itself to death or succumbs to the mystical force of three. In the end, only the human bone that gave it life remains, lying abandoned in the pasture, marking the creature’s demise and freeing its maker from a dark and deadly bond.

I will have some images of a Tilberi in the notes of this episode on All Things Iceland. If you want to see a model of one in person then I recommend visiting the Sorcery and Witchcraft Museum in Hólmavík in the Westfjords.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeTilberi – carrier

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Learn about cycling culture, different routes, races, and more from Búi Aðalsteinsson, an Icelandic cycling enthusiast and podcast host.

About Búi AðalsteinssonBúi Aðalsteinsson is a designer and has run the design studio Grallaragerðin since 2016, alongside various other jobs, he currently works at the Department of Service and Innovation at the City of Reykjavík.

Búi’s work emphasizes community and environmental aspects. His experience includes developing creative projects within Icelandic prisons, mapping the arrival of refugee children to Iceland, improving connections with plants, enhancing the utilization of by-products from vegetable farming in Iceland, and incorporating insects into food products.

Búi was nominated for the Icelandic Design Awards in 2019, and in 2016, he won the Grapevine Design Award for Project of the Year, which focused on using insects in food production.

Recently, Búi has developed a remarkably strong interest in cycling and has started a podcast, Hjólavarpið, covering everything related to bicycles, both in terms of transportation and competitive cycling.

Búi’s Podcast About CyclingHjólavarpið is the name of the cycling podcast that Búi hosts.

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Questions I asked Búi Aðalsteinsson During the Interview* What sparked your interest in cycling? * Can you share a little about cycling culture in Iceland and why it has taken off as a trend? * What to know if a person wants to bring their bike to Iceland? * Where can someone rent a bike in Reykjavík? * Are there any routes in the city that you enjoy cycling? * What are some competitive races in Iceland? * What have you learned about cycling in Iceland that surprised you? * What are your favorite cycling routes in the city and the countryside? * What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Links that Búi talked about during the interview* Public Transport Iceland * Cycling Iceland * Reiðhjólabændur on Facebook

Where to follow Búi and HjólavarpiðBúi

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Why Trolls Tried to Make the Westfjords of Iceland an IslandCenturies ago, in the wild and rugged land of Iceland, three mischievous trolls hatched a plan to reshape the landscape forever. Their goal? To sever the Westfjords from the rest of the island by digging a massive channel between Húnaflói Bay and Breiðafjörður Bay.

These trolls loved a good challenge, so they added a competitive twist: as they dug, they would turn the earth they dug into islands.Deep in their task, the trolls were so focused on their wicked work that they failed to notice the sky brightening—the worst mistake a troll could make, for sunlight spells doom to such creatures

The Trolls Try to Escape the DeathIn the west, where two trolls toiled tirelessly, hundreds of small islands began to speckle the shallow waters of Breiðafjörður. But in the east, where one lone troll struggled with the deeper, harsher waters of Húnaflói, only a few meager mounds rose from the sea.

As the first light of dawn began to creep across the horizon, panic set in. The two trolls in the west abandoned their work and sprinted northeast, hoping to escape the deadly sunlight. But they were too late. The rays of the morning sun caught them in Kollafjörður, instantly turning them into stone, where they stand to this day.

Their frenzied digging left behind the Gilsfjörður and Bitrufjörður fjords—mere hours more and they might have succeeded in turning the Westfjords into an island.

Meanwhile, the third troll in the east, furious at her lack of progress, slammed her shovel into the ground in frustration. With a crack, a piece of earth broke free, forming what we now know as Grimsey Island. But before she could celebrate, the rising sun caught her as well, turning her to stone.

Today, her petrified form remains in the village of Drangsnes, known as the Kerling rock formation—a reminder of the trolls’ ill-fated quest to reshape Iceland’s coasts.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe Westfjords is one of the oldest parts of Iceland. The ancient basaltic lava flows date back to the Tertiary period, which is around 7 to 16 million years ago.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeTröll – troll

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Where is there treasure behind Skógafoss waterfall?In Icelandic Legends and Fairy Tales, 1862-64, Jón Árnason (1819–1888) added more details to the story of Þrasi Þórólfsson in Skógar. It is said that Þrasi buried a chest full of gold and treasures beneath the Skógafoss waterfall, and in olden times, part of this chest was visible.

An old rhyme goes:

“Þrasi’s chest is filled with treasure,
Hidden beneath Skógafoss waterfall,
The first to find it there,
Will discover great riches.”

Jón also recounts that around the year 1600, three men attempted to retrieve the chest. However, they were distracted when they thought their farmhouse was on fire. Rushing back, they found no fire. When they returned to the waterfall, they managed to hook a ring attached to the chest.

As they tried to pull it out, the ring broke off. It is said that this very ring is now affixed to the door of the church in Skógar.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThere are many more waterfalls behind Skogafoss waterfall. This path is part of the Fimmmvöruháls trail.

Explore Iceland on Your OwnGo Car Rental Iceland

Go Campers – Camper Van Rental in Iceland

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÍslenzkar þjóðsögur og ævintýri – Icelandic Legends and Fairy Tales

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

A Plague Sent Sorcerers int HidingWhen a plague ravaged Iceland in the 15th century, eighteen sorcerers formed a desperate alliance, fleeing to the remote Vestmannaeyjar Islands (Westman Islands) to escape its deadly grip. They hoped to wait out the plague, but as it finally began to subside, they grew curious. Did anyone still live on the mainland?

They chose one among them, neither the strongest nor the weakest, to go ashore and find out. But they warned him—if he didn’t return by Christmas, they would send a deadly zombie to kill him.

A Post-Apocalyptic Scene in IcelandThe man wandered through the desolate land, finding only abandoned farms and scattered corpses. Hope seemed lost until, at last, he came upon a closed farmhouse. When he knocked, a beautiful young woman answered.

Overcome with relief, she embraced him, believing she was the last living soul. She pleaded with him to stay, and though he was bound by his promise to return, her loneliness moved him. He stayed with her, but as Christmas approached, he knew he had to leave.

Preparing for a Zombie AttackOn Christmas Eve, as he prepared to go, the woman begged him to stay, warning that his journey back would be futile. Time was short, and he realized he wouldn’t make it. Resigned to his fate, he decided to wait for death by her side.

As the night deepened, the man grew sleepy while the woman remained watchful. She kept waking him, asking where the zombie was. But as it drew nearer, his sleep became more profound. Finally, he announced that the zombie had reached the farm and then fell into an unbreakable slumber.

The Zombie is TrickedThe woman, however, was ready. As a rust-brown vapor, the zombie seeped into the farmhouse and took human form. When it demanded she move so it could reach its target, she challenged it instead. “Show me how big you can become,” she said. The zombie expanded until it filled the room. Then she asked, “Now, how small can you get?”

The zombie boasted it could shrink to a fly, and as it did, she quickly trapped it in a sheep’s leg bone. When she woke the man, he was astonished to be alive. The woman revealed her cunning trap, mocking the supposed power of the island wizards. They celebrated together, but soon, the man grew anxious again. The wizards, he feared, would create an even stronger zombie to finish him off by New Year’s Eve.

Zombie Danger Averted for the Last TimeOn the eve of the new year, the woman led him to a hidden vault beneath a bush. Inside, they found a terrifying figure—her foster father—lying in a dark chamber lit only by a candle in a skull.

After hearing their tale, the foster father took the sheep’s leg, freed the trapped zombie, and ordered it to devour all the wizards’ zombies. The zombie-turned-fly obeyed, growing immense and consuming every undead creature sent from the islands.

With the threat vanquished, the man and the woman returned to her farm. They fell in love, stayed together, and their descendants multiplied, filling the earth with life once more.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe Black Death, which devastated much of Europe in the 14th century, somehow spared Iceland. The plague never became a constant presence on the island, unlike in neighboring countries. However, Iceland wasn’t entirely untouched by this deadly disease.

In the 15th century, two severe plague epidemics did hit the country. The first outbreak arrived in 1402 and caused widespread devastation until early spring 1404. Nearly a century later, the second epidemic struck during the winter of 1494-95, once again leaving its mark on Iceland’s history.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeUppvakningur – zombie

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Recently a horrific accident in an ice cave resulted in a tragedy that has rocked the Icelandic tourism industry. After international news sources picked up this incident, many potential visitors have expressed worry about whether they should ever go into an ice cave.

I’m going to share what has been reported in Iceland, action being taken to prevent potential ice cave tragedies, and when it is safest to go on an ice cave tour.

Before I dive in though, I would like to extend my deepest condolences to the family of the person who lost their life.

An Ice Cave Tour Turns into TragedyOn Sunday, August 26th, 2024 rescue crews in Southeast Iceland searched for two missing tourists after an ice cave partially collapsed on the Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. The collapse occurred while a group of tourists was inside the cave. One tourist, a US national, was pronounced dead at the scene, while another, his pregnant wife, sustained serious injuries and was flown to a hospital in Reykjavík.

Continuing Search and Rescue EffortsFollowing the collapse, around 50-60 rescue workers were deployed to the site, working in rotating shifts to clear away ice by hand due to the inability to bring heavy equipment to the site. Although weather conditions were favorable, the difficult glacier environment posed challenges to the rescue efforts.

Authorities as well as Search & Rescue teams had initially been told that 25 tourists were on the tour but only 23 were accounted for. The assumption was that two people were buried under the ice or stuck in the cave.

After a day of Search & Rescue workers digging in the ice in three groups doing one-hour shifts at each time, the search was called off for the two missing people because they never went on the tour. So basically, the tour company only had 23 people on the tour but initially thought there was 25.

Concerns Over Tour Safety and RegulationsThe incident has sparked criticism from experts and officials regarding the safety practices of tour companies offering ice cave tours on Breiðamerkurjökull glacier. Experienced glacier guides had previously raised concerns about the dangers of operating such tours outside the safer winter months (December to March).

A 2017 risk assessment report had already warned against summer ice cave tours due to increased risks, yet tour companies continued these excursions year-round, driven by the growing tourism market.

Government and Park Authorities’ ResponseIn response to the accident, Vatnajökull National Park temporarily suspended all ice cave tours within its boundaries. The park authorities, along with government officials, expressed deep regret over the incident and acknowledged the failure to enforce earlier safety warnings. A government task force has been established to investigate why these warnings were not heeded and to ensure stricter regulations moving forward.

Call for Stricter Regulations on Ice Cave Tour OperationsThe conduct of the tour company involved, Ice Pic Journeys, has been criticized, particularly for its marketing practices. Officials are now calling for a reassessment of the regulatory framework governing ice cave tours, with potential new regulations to prohibit such tours during unsafe periods.

The Icelandic Tourist Board is also considering expanding its oversight to require all tour operators to submit safety plans, rather than relying on a sample. One other important finding is that the area where the accident took place had been advised against going to because of recent glacial movements over that summer that could make dangerous conditions.

National Park and Government ActionsOur current Prime Minister and other government officials have emphasized the need to understand the regulatory failures that led to the tragedy.

“At first glance, it seems we have a decent regulatory framework concerning insurance, education, safety measures, and similar matters. The national park issues the permits, and I find it concerning that permits were issued during a time when the risk assessment indicated that the situation was not without danger.”

Iceland’s Prime Minister as reported by Iceland Review

The government is focusing on ensuring that appropriate safety measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future. The task force’s findings and recommendations are expected to influence new regulations, likely leading to the suspension of summer ice cave tours permanently.

Safest Time to Go on an Ice Cave Tour in IcelandThe Safest time to go on an Ice Cave tour is from December to March, which is winter in Iceland and the ice caves are much more stable. It is important to remember that conditions can change, and it is possible for tours to be cancelled due to various reasons, like weather or the cave changing a lot. I know some people are wondering about other ice caves in places other than Vatnajökull in southeast. Katla Ice Cave and Into the Glacier come to mind.

Honestly, that is a tough one for me to answer because this incident made me question if those are ok as well. I am not saying they are not ok. However, I think it is normal to have some questions about what is being done differently than in this situation to prevent a tragic accident. Because I am not a glacier guide, I rely on expert guides to know the conditions of the glaciers.

If you are planning to take an ice cave tour outside of the winter season, I highly recommend asking the tour company about the safety plans they have in place and if the conditions are ok for this type of tour.

Glacier Hike vs Ice Cave ToursGlacier hikes are normally done all year long. Walking on a glacier as opposed to going inside of an ice cave that is located on a glacier are different experiences. They both have risks and require a glacier guide but glacier hikes are safe to do all year long.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThere is a man-made ice cave in Perlan, a museum and exhibition space in Reykjavík, that you can visit anytime of the year if you want to experience an ice cave safely in the off season for natural ice caves.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÍshellir – Ice cave

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

A Tale of How a Canyon is named after a GiantessKolugljúfur Canyon gets its name from the legendary giantess Kola, who made her home on a ledge within the gorge. According to local folklore, Kola was quite resourceful, often catching salmon straight from the river with her bare hands for breakfast.

On occasion, she would cook her catch in the Koluketill Kettle, a nearby natural hot spring, to enjoy a warm meal later in the day. Kola’s connection to this place was deeply practical—she appreciated the abundant salmon and the convenient hot spring rather than the scenic beauty that draws visitors today.

Random Fact of the EpisodeKolugljúfur Canyon, located in the north of Iceland, is a hidden gem that showcases the raw beauty of Icelandic nature. This stunning canyon, approximately one kilometer long and up to 50 meters deep, was carved out by the Víðidalsá River over millennia. It is home to the spectacular Kolufossar Waterfalls, a series of cascades that tumble through the gorge, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.

Despite its beauty, Kolugljúfur remains off the beaten path, offering visitors a peaceful and uncrowded experience. Two main hiking trails allow for exploration of the canyon’s depths or a more leisurely stroll along the rim, providing stunning views at every turn. The area is also rich in birdlife and other fauna, adding to its appeal as a destination for nature enthusiasts.

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Icelandic Word of the EpisodeKolugljúfur is broken down into two words. Kola is the name of the giantess and means coal. While gljúfur means canyon.

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

An Icelandic Saga that Mentions the LyngbakurThe Saga of Örvar-Oddur from the 13th or 14th century mentions the Lyngbakur. In part of the saga, Oddur is seeing vengeance against Ögmundur Flóki (sometimes referred to as Ögmundur Eyþjófsbani or “Eythjof’s-killer”) for the murder of his blood-brother Þórður.

To make it safely to Ögmundr Flóki’s location, Oddur was guided by his half-giant son, Vignir. Oddur and his crew set sail towards a fjord in Helluland where Ögmundur was rumored to be hiding. Along the way, they encountered two enormous sea creatures that were so large they appeared as islands.

Two Sea Monsters that Look Like IslandsIn the saga, Vignir said, “These were two sea monsters, one called Hafgúfa and the other Lyngbakur. Hafgúfa is the largest creature in the entire ocean. It devours men, ships, whales, and anything else nearby. It stays submerged for days before surfacing, and when it does, it remains on the surface for at least one tide.”

Five men had mistakenly disembarked on what they believed was an island, only to be dragged into the sea when Lyngbakur dove beneath the waves, leading to their deaths. Despite this, the group managed to navigate through the jaws of Hafgúfa, the other monster that Ögmundur had magically summoned to stop them.

Lean More About Sea Monsters Spotted in IcelandThe book “Meeting with the Monsters” is a wonderful resource if you want to learn more about sea monsters in Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe lyngbakur is said to eat every three years when it swallows everything in its path, including birds, fish and any other life in the sea.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeLyngbakur – Heather back

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

A Tyrant Farm OwnerLong ago, in the northern reaches of Iceland, there was a farmstead called Skíðastaðir, where a wealthy farmer ruled with an iron fist. His wealth was immense, and he had many laborers working tirelessly, both summer and winter. The farmer was known for his strict ways, especially during the haymaking season. He demanded that the women servants cook meals only on Sundays, leaving the other days for hard labor in the fields. Church was out of the question, and reading the bible was forbidden. His farm was a place of toil, not of worship.

A Strange & Deadly DisasterOne Sunday morning, something strange happened. A mysterious man, dressed in white and holding a staff, was seen by many in the area. He was walking northwards over Vansdalsfjall, a mountain that loomed above Skíðastaðir. The man stopped at the top of the mountain, looked down upon the farm, and struck the earth with his staff.

Suddenly, the ground began to shake, and a massive landslide started to rumble down the slope, growing larger and more terrifying as it descended. This unstoppable force crashed into the farmhouse, leaving nothing but destruction in its wake. All who lived there perished, except for one young girl who had, by some twist of fate, been away from the farmhouse at that very moment.

A Young & Kind Woman Working on the FarmThis girl had lived at Skíðastaðir for a long time, but her heart was heavy with sorrow. She was deeply troubled by the farmer’s godlessness, yet she remained kind and dutiful, earning the affection of her masters and fellow workers alike.

She often cooked on holy days without complaint, though her only reward was being allowed to scrape the pots clean. The winter before the landslide was one of the harshest anyone could remember. People and animals alike were starving, but the wealthy farmer refused to share his abundance, turning away those who came to him in desperate need.

The girl, however, could not bear to see others suffer. She would give what little she could to the poor and hungry, even offering them the scrapings from the pots. The winter was cruel to the animals too, and they died in great numbers, their bodies piling up as the cold tightened its grip.

Ravens gathered at the farms, searching for any scraps that might be thrown out. Moved by their plight, the girl threw out whatever she could from the kitchen. One raven, in particular, became fond of her, following her wherever she went outside. He was always there, waiting for her to share a morsel.

How the Raven Saved the Young WomanAs spring turned to summer, the raven continued his visits, arriving early each morning at Skíðastaðir. The girl, with her kind heart, always saved a bit of food for him. On the fateful Sunday morning when the landslide occurred, she had risen early to cook porridge.

Eager to feed her raven friend, she hurried to scrape the pot before he arrived. But when she went outside, the raven was acting strangely. He wouldn’t touch the food she offered, instead fluttering around anxiously and then flying a short distance away into the field.

Puzzled, the girl followed him, determined to find out what was wrong. The raven flew a little farther each time she approached, leading her further and further from the farmhouse. She didn’t understand why he was behaving this way, but she trusted him and kept following.

Eventually, they had traveled some distance south of the homefield when the girl decided it was time to turn back.
Just then, she heard a terrifying roar coming from the mountain. She turned to see the landslide crashing down, sweeping away the farmhouse and everything in its path.

The realization struck her like a bolt of lightning—the raven had saved her life. Overcome with gratitude, she thanked God with all her heart for sending this wise and faithful bird to lead her to safety.

Random fact of the EpisodeAccording to the Icelandic Institute of Natural History’s website

“The number of nesting pairs is said to be around 2,500, while the autumn population is estimated at 12-15,000 individuals. Ravens nest all over the northern hemisphere.
A monogamous bird, the raven remains loyal to its mate for the whole of its life, using the same nesting site year after year. Although usually found in cliffs, nests also occur in man-made structures and trees. Nesting begins in mid-April, and four to six eggs are the norm. The young develop slowly, but can fly properly by about five weeks of age, normally in the latter half of June, and abandon their parents in July. The oldest known wild raven reached the age of 2.
Many folktales and reports exist about ravens, as well as numerous verses and poems. However, the attitude of Icelanders towards ravens is mixed. Whereas the original heathen settlers looked up to the raven as a symbol of wisdom and prophecy, their Christian descendents often saw the raven as a sign of evil: a harbinger of death or an associate of magicians and wrongdoers. On the other hand, Icelandic folktales also speak of the kindness of the raven and the sagas of how it helped the first settlers.”

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeRaven – krummi eða hrafn

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This is the fourth episode for my segment “Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland”. Thank you to everyone who sent in questions. If you would like to submit a question, please use this link.

You can check out previous episodes on Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland here.

If you have questions that are specifically for an upcoming trip and getting the answer is time-sensitive, feel free to book a one-hour private video trip planning call with me.

1.Anne C. said:“Have you been to Faroe Islands? Is it an easy enough day trip or overnight or weekend from Iceland? What are logistics and approx costs/fees associated? Best time of year?”Flights from Reykjavik, Edinburgh, and Oslo to the Faroe Islands with Atlantic Airways are only one hour long,

The Faroe Islands can also be reached by ferry from Iceland and Denmark. Slow travel at its best! This service is operated by a Faroese company, Smyril Line.

Icelandair flights are currently 5-6 times a week from May to October. The price starts at $206 if departing from Reykjavík

Check out Visit Faroe Islands for more information.

2.Michael F. said:“We are returning to Iceland for the 2nd time in September. Our flight gets in early and we saw some hotels close to the airport offer a nap-n-go option. We were hoping to catch a nap before driving to Hveragerdi. Is this something you would recommend?”I think the Nap and Go program is a great option to get some rest before heading out on the road. It seems that you need to contact the hotels for the room rates because they are not on their websites.

3.Scott H. said:“What is it like taking a car on a ferry? To visit the Westman Islands. We are staying overnight there and I would like to have my luggage and other things with us while we are there.”Taking the ferry to the Westman Islands has been a very positive experience for me. I think the best route is when you depart from Landeyjahöfn on mainland Iceland and going to Heimaey. You can book you car as part of your ferry ticket, which makes getting around the island even easier.

4.Ana C. said:“Hi Jewells! How was it for you experiencing winter time in Iceland for the first years? Was it too hard? What was the most difficult part? Do people there change habbits to enjoy the little daylight they can while working for instance (like longer lunch breaks)? What changes in the daily life ? Ended up being a lot of questions 😉 Takk!I talk a lot about the coping mechanisms I have used to thrive, and not just survive, winter in Iceland in this video.

5.Ana C. said:“What is the most difficult part for you about learning Icelandic? Vocabulary itself, conjugation, verbs? ”Icelandic has several things that make it difficult. Pronunciation, declensions, conjugations, and some exceptions to rules can trip anyone up. This includes Icelanders. I think my avoidance of saying something wrong due to the four cases in which words can decline or conjugating verbs was more of an issue than saying words properly.

For many language learners that have an accent when they speak Icelandic, that can be a deterrent in having Icelanders understanding what you are saying because most Icelanders are not accustomed to hearing an accent when they speak Icelandic.

6.Madeline M said:“This isn’t exactly about Iceland, but…can you give us the backstory of your theme music?”The selection of my theme song was based on me wanting to play music that gave you the vibe of taking a road trip or feeling nostalgic.

It would have been nice to have a local Icelandic band create the sound but I was DIYing everything so there was not a lot of money to put into this. After many hours of checking out music on a royalty free music site, I knew I had found the right song.

7.Shelley D. said:Do you have resources for lodging in Iceland?Yes, I have many lodging recommendations on My Iceland Map.

8.Christine said:“Thank you for all the great advice and inspiration! What experiences or sites do you suggest for young travelers? (Ours specifically is 5 years old.) ”My absolute pleasure! Iceland is very child friendly. There are many playgrounds, museums for younger people, local pools, and being out in nature, like doing the Golden Circle or driving around the country. Some museums that families love to take their kids are Perlan, The Lava Show, Whale of Iceland, and the Árbæjarsafn Open Air Museum.

9.Christine said:“The reverse of my other question: what sites do you definitely suggest parents of kids avoid? Thank you!”Glacier hikes, zip-lining or very strenuous hikes are the activities I do not recommend for young children.

10.Laura G. said:“I am going to Iceland in August with my boys 5&8. Can you recommend a public hot spring or pool in Vik and Hofn? ”The swimming pool in Vík – https://sundlaugar.is/en/sundlaugasafn/vik/

Höfn swimming pool – https://www.south.is/en/service/hofn-swimming-pool

11.Katie S. said:“Hi Jewells. My husband, teenage son, and I are coming to Iceland at the beginning of July. I hope you get to this before then! I heard on a recent episode that you are 100% plant based. My husband and I are almost 100% vegetarian and are curious about the variety and availability of vegetarian/vegan dishes in Iceland. Our tour company sent us a Restaurant Guide Book, but most things that are highlighted are meat/seafood based. Also, our son is a typical American teen (we’re from upstate New York), who tends to be a bit picky. Are there good options for someone who isn’t as adventurous (pizza, burgers, etc.)?”Yes, Dominos, Black Box Pizza, tons of burger places like 2 Guys, Tommi’s Burger Joint, Dirty Burgers and Ribs, Íslenska Hamborgarafabrikkan, and Yuzu Burger. There is also always the famous Icelandic hot dog which can be found downtown and at pretty much any gas station in the country.

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

The Lazy Farmer’s WifeMany centuries ago, a hard working farmer that lived below the Eyjafjöll mountains in South Iceland married a young woman. To his surprise and dismay, he found out after their marriage that his new wife was kind of lazy and lacking motivation to do much.

Because they lived on a farm and there were many chores to be done, it bothered the farmer that his wife was not pitching in. In the fall of that year, the farmer gave his wife a large quantity of wool to weave into clothing. As the winter approached and went fully engulfed the area, the farmer noticed that his wife had yet to touch the wool.

A Strange Woman Provides a SolutionOne day while the farmer was away, a rather tall and large woman came to the farmer’s wife and asked for a favor. While it is not specified what the favor was, the farmer’s wife immediately asked the woman for something in return. The large woman said sure and inquired about what the farmer’s wife wanted.

The farmer’s wife requested that the large woman weave the wool into clothing. Without skipping a beat, the large woman said no problem, swung the wool over her shoulder and said she will return with the clothing by the first day of summer. The farmer’s wife asked what the woman wanted as payment for the work. Well, the large woman thought about it and said, if you can guess correctly what my name is then we will be even. She then vanished into the countryside.

Of course, the farmer noticed that the wool was gone and asked his wife what happened to it. She replied that it was none of his business and that he will have his wool clothes by the first day of summer. While he wasn’t happy about this answer, he shrugged it off and went on about his work.

The Lazy Wife Starts to WorryAs the end of winter approached, the farmer’s wife grew more worried that the large woman would return and that she wouldn’t be able to guess her name. The anxiety within the farmer’s wife grew so much that she could hardly get out of bed and was melancholy. The farmer noticed this and asked her what is wrong. Finally, she broke down and told her husband the whole story. After hearing the story, the farmer was frightened that his wife had encountered a troll-wife that would kidnap his wife if she didn’t guess the name correctly.

As fate would have it, the farmer was walking in a valley one day and heard a strange voice singing. He was able to keep himself hidden but saw that it was a large troll like woman weaving wool and singing “Hi ho, hi ho, the farmer’s wife doesn’t know my name. Gilitrutt’s my name. Gilitrutt’s my name. Hi, ho, hi, ho.”

The farmer ran back to his house and wrote the name down.

The Troll Returns Time continued to pass and the last day of winter was upon them. The farmer asked his wife if she knew the name of the woman that helped her and she said no in a depressed tone because she knew that meant she was done for. Finally, the farmer told her what had happened and that he had written the name of the troll down. He gave her the note and said to say it to the troll when she arrived.

On the morning of the first day of summer, it seemed that no one was around. The wife lay in bed frightened. All of a sudden, she heard heavy foot steps and the large troll woman came into the house with the sack of woolen clothing. She immediately demanded for the farmer’s wife to say her name.

The farmer’s wife was trembling but she asked if the troll’s name was Ása. The troll laughed and said no. Then she asked if it was Signý. The troll was giddy with joy because she felt confident that the farmer’s wife would never get it right but said she was willing to give her one more chance to answer. At last, the farmer’s wife said “Gilitrutt”. At the sound of her name, the troll screamed with horror and ran away. She was never seen or heard from again.

Random Fact of the EpisodeIcelandic trolls are said to live in uninhabitable places, like rocky mountains and the highlands. They have been known to lure humans into caves with magic or by capturing them.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeTröllskessa – troll woman – big, ugly woman with an attitude

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At the summit of Hólmaháls, just above the road, lies the grave mound of a Völva, or prophetess, who has been believed to protect Reyðarfjörður and Eskifjörður from sea attacks for centuries.

Want to hear more Icelandic Folklore Stories?This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

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How the Prophetess Protects the FjordAccording to legend, the prophetess lived in Sómastaðir in the 17th century. Before her death, she requested to be buried in a location that offered the best view of Reyðarfjörður. She claimed that as long as her bones remained undisturbed, the fjords of Eskifjörður and Reyðarfjörður would be safe from maritime attacks.

Later, when Algerian Turks attempted to invade the East Fjords, intending to sail into Reyðarfjörður and plunder the area, they encountered an impenetrable fog at the fjord’s entrance, which forced them to retreat.

The legend further states that as long as stones are regularly added to the prophetess’ grave, the fjords will remain protected from disaster.

Random Fact of the EpisodeReyðarfjörður’s strategic location and harbor conditions played a role in WWII because it was the second-largest of the Allied bases in Iceland during the war. There is a WWII museum in this fjord.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeVölva – prophetess

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In the mystic landscapes of Iceland, the northern lights weave tales as ancient as the glaciers. According to some Icelandic folklore, these shimmering lights are more than just natural phenomena.

This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Folklore stories of the Northern Lights in IcelandThey are believed to be the restless spirits of the deceased, particularly those who have yet to find their final resting place. As the auroras dance across the sky, it’s thought that these spirits are performing a celestial ballet, painting the heavens with their ethereal colors.

Another enchanting legend tells of an arctic fox with a tail as swift as the wind. As this fox dashes across the snow-covered wilderness, its sweeping tail brushes against the icy terrain, causing the northern lights to ignite the sky. The vibrant glow of the auroras is said to mirror the fox’s fur, casting a luminous reflection on the snow and ice below.

The belief in dancing elves adds another layer of magic to the northern lights. In the quiet of the Icelandic night, when the sky comes alive with the auroras, it is said that elves and hidden people, known as Huldufólk, emerge from their secret abodes. These supernatural beings celebrate under the bright auroras, their joyous dances lighting up the night.

Some Icelanders have even claimed to hear faint strains of music and laughter accompanying the lights, a testament to the deep-rooted belief in the connection between the elves and the northern lights.

The Less Appealing Stories of the Northern Lights in IcelandBut not all tales of the northern lights are filled with joy. In times past, their appearance was often seen as a harbinger of bad weather or impending storms. The luminous displays in the sky were sometimes viewed with apprehension, signaling that nature’s fury was soon to be unleashed.

Yet, amidst these varied beliefs, the northern lights were also seen as a beacon of hope and good fortune. To witness the auroras was considered a stroke of luck, especially for those on the brink of a journey or a significant life event. The lights served as a celestial blessing, promising good luck and safe passage.

In the end, the northern lights are more than just a natural spectacle in Icelandic folklore. They are a tapestry of stories, each thread woven with the imagination and beliefs of a people deeply connected to the natural world around them. Whether seen as the spirits of the dead, the brush of a fox’s tail, the dance of elves, a warning of storms, or a sign of good fortune, the auroras continue to captivate and inspire, lighting up the skies and the hearts of all who behold them.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe Northern Lights have been found to make a sound. According to a study from a Finnish researcher Unto K. Laine, the colorful displays of the Northern Lights produced a crackling sound which related to the electromagnetic renounces of the Earth! ⁠

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeNorðurljós – Northern Lights

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Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, visiting Iceland during Pride is an unforgettable experience. This guide will delve into why you should consider timing your visit to coincide with Reykjavík Pride, what events to look forward to, and what else you can enjoy in Iceland during August.

Why Visit Iceland During Pride in Reykjavík?Reykjavík Pride, or “Hinsegin Dagar” in Icelandic, is a week-long festival held every August that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community. This event is not just a parade but a full-fledged festival filled with various activities that cater to all ages and interests. Here are several reasons why visiting during Pride is a fantastic idea:

Inclusivity and CelebrationReykjavík Pride is a testament to Iceland’s progressive and inclusive society. The country is known for its acceptance and support of LGBTQ+ rights, being one of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage in 2010. The Pride festivities reflect this spirit of inclusivity, making everyone feel welcome and celebrated.

A Vibrant Parade in Downtown ReykjavíkThe highlight of Reykjavík Pride is undoubtedly the parade. Held on the second Saturday of August, the parade attracts thousands of locals and visitors who line the streets to watch the colorful and joyous procession.

Expect to see an array of floats, performers, and enthusiastic participants showcasing their support for the LGBTQ+ community. The parade route winds through downtown Reykjavík, making it accessible and easy to join in on the fun. It starts at Hallgrímskirkja church and ends at Hljómskálagarðurinn for a big concert and speeches.

Family-Friendly EventsReykjavík Pride is not just for adults; it’s a family-friendly event with activities for all ages. There are special events designed for children, such as the Family Rainbow Festival, which includes face painting, games, and entertainment for the little ones. This inclusive approach ensures that everyone, regardless of age, can participate in the celebrations.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsIn addition to the parade, Reykjavík Pride offers a variety of cultural and educational events. These include film screenings, panel discussions, art exhibitions, and workshops that delve into LGBTQ+ issues and history. These programs provide a deeper understanding of the community’s struggles and triumphs, making the festival both fun and enlightening.

Parties and ConcertsFor those looking to party, Reykjavík Pride doesn’t disappoint. The week is packed with concerts, club nights, and after-parties that feature local and international artists. The Pride Opening Party and the Official Pride Dance are particularly popular, offering a chance to dance the night away with new friends. Kiki’s Queer bar downtown is a great place to party but there are plenty of other bars to celebrate during this time.

What Else to Do in Iceland in AugustWhile Reykjavík Pride is a significant draw, there’s plenty more to explore in Iceland during August. Here are some activities and sights you shouldn’t miss:

Explore ReykjavíkThe capital city, Reykjavík, is a hub of culture and history. Take a stroll down Laugavegur, the main shopping street, where you can find unique boutiques, cafes, and street art. Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja church, which offers panoramic views of the city from its tower. Don’t forget to check out the Harpa Concert Hall and the Sun Voyager sculpture along the waterfront.

Experience Icelandic NatureIceland’s natural beauty is breathtaking, and August is the perfect time to experience it. The weather is mild, and the days are long, providing ample time for outdoor adventures. Here are a few must-see natural wonders:

Golden Circle: This popular route includes the stunning Þingvellir National Park, the geysers at Haukadalur, and the majestic Gullfoss waterfall. Each stop offers unique geological and historical insights.
South Coast: Drive along the south coast to witness black sand beaches, towering waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, the dramatic Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and gorgeous Diamond Beach.
Snæfellsnes Peninsula: Known as “Iceland in Miniature,” this region offers diverse landscapes, including the Snæfellsjökull glacier, charming fishing villages, and the iconic Kirkjufell mountain.

Soak in Hot SpringsIceland is famous for its geothermal activity, and there’s no better way to relax than in a hot spring. The Blue Lagoon near Reykjavík is world-renowned, but there are many other lesser-known spots worth visiting:

Secret Lagoon: Located in the Golden Circle area, this natural hot spring offers a more rustic and authentic experience.
Mývatn Nature Baths: In the north of Iceland, these baths provide stunning views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Reykjadalur Hot Springs: A short hike from the town of Hveragerði takes you to a valley with a hot river where you can bathe.
Sky Lagoon
Hvammsvík
The Blue Lagoon

Adventure ActivitiesFor thrill-seekers, August in Iceland offers numerous adventure activities:

Glacier Hiking and Ice Climbing: Venture onto one of Iceland’s many glaciers with a guided tour. The blue ice and crevasses make for an exhilarating experience.
Whale Watching: August is a great time for whale watching, with tours departing from various locations, including Reykjavík and Húsavík.
Horseback Riding: Explore the Icelandic countryside on the back of an Icelandic horse, known for its unique gait called the tölt.
The Icelandic Highlands

Get Access to All the Best Places Around the Country with My Iceland MapThis and many other awesome places around Iceland are on My Iceland Map. It was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.

With full access, you get over 290 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Festivals and Events During Pride in ReykjavikApart from Reykjavík Pride, August hosts several other festivals and events:

Culture Night (Menningarnótt): Held in Reykjavík, this event features concerts, art exhibitions, street performances, and fireworks.
Reykjavík Marathon: Coinciding with Culture Night, this marathon attracts runners from around the world.

Enjoy the Midnight SunWhile the midnight sun starts to wane in August, you still get extended daylight hours. This means more time to explore and less need to rush your activities. The long evenings are perfect for photography, with the golden hour lasting much longer than usual.

Practical Tips for Visiting Iceland During Pride Accommodation: August is a busy month in Iceland, so book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you plan to stay in Reykjavík during Pride. * Transport: Renting a car is the best way to explore Iceland’s natural wonders at your own pace. However, Reykjavík has excellent public transport, and many tour operators offer excursions to popular sites. * Weather: Icelandic weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy footwear to stay comfortable. * Safety*: Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world, but always follow local guidelines, especially when exploring nature. Stick to marked paths and heed weather warnings.

Reykjavík Pride is more than just a parade; it’s a celebration of diversity, love, and acceptance. Visiting Iceland during this time offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes while participating in one of the most inclusive festivals in the world.

From family-friendly events to adventurous excursions, August in Iceland has something for everyone. So pack your bags, join the festivities, and create unforgettable memories in the land of fire and ice.

Random Fact of the EpisodeIceland has had an openly gay prime minister. It was also among the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex marriage and adoption rights. Since 1999, Iceland has been celebrating Pride and some years have seen up to 100,000 attendees.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeHinsegin Dagar – Queer Days

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Bárður’s BackgroundBárður’s mother was human, while his father was half giant (risi) and half troll. He was raised by Dofri, the mountain-dweller of Dovrefjell in Nroway. With his first wife, Flaumgerður, Dofri’s daughter (also half-human), Bárður had three tall, beautiful daughters: Helga, Þordís, and Guðrún. His second wife, Herþrúðr, was human, and together they had six more daughters.

Where Bárður Settles Down in IcelandBárður, along with his wife and daughters, emigrated to Iceland, landing at a lagoon on the southern shore of Snæfellsnes, which they named Djúpalón. He established a farm there, called Laugarbrekka. Bárður’s half-brother, Þorkell, born from their mother’s second marriage to a jötunn, lived at Arnarstapi and had two sons, Rauðfeldur (Red-cloak) and Sölvi.

The sons of Þorkell and the daughters of Bárður often played together. One day, Rauðfeldur pushed Helga out to sea on an iceberg during pack ice along the shore. She drifted safely to Greenland and found a lover there, but Bárður was enraged. He pushed Rauðfeldur into the Rauðfeldsgjá ravine and threw Sölvi off the high cliff Sölvahamar, east of Arnarstapi. In the ensuing fight, Bárður broke Þorkell’s leg, leading Þorkell to move away from the district.

Bárður Seeks Isolation After the FightFollowing these events, Bárður gave away his land and disappeared into the Snæfellsjökull ice cap, becoming known as Bárður Snæfellsás, the “guardian spirit” of Snæfell. The people of the peninsula revered him, calling on him in times of difficulty, and many found genuine help in him. He wandered the region in a grey cowl, with a walrus-hide rope and a cleft staff with a long, thick gaff for walking on glaciers.

Bárður brought Helga back from Greenland, but she missed her lover and couldn’t bear to stay with her father. When Ingjald of Ingjaldshvoll was trapped at a dangerous fishing spot by a troll-woman and a mysterious fisherman named Grímur (thought to be Thor), Bárður rowed out alone to rescue him. Eventually, Bárður and Þorkell reconciled and lived together for some time.

Random Fact of the EpisodeRauðfeldsgjá on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula is a beautiful and fun ravine to explore.

This and many other awesome places around Iceland are on My Iceland Map. It was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeRauðfeldsgjá – Red-Cloak Rift

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Back in the year 1000 AD Þorgeir, the Law Speaker in Althingi or Icelandic Parliament, made the decision that Iceland would become a Christian nation. This was a huge decision for him to make considering that he was Pagan that believed in the Old Norse Gods.

When he returned back home to the north as a Christian, his first order of business was to get rid of the Pagan idols from his temple. It is said that he took all of the idols and tossed them into a waterfall. According to the story, the waterfall came to be known as Goðafoss or “Waterfall of the Gods“ or waterfall of the Goði (chieftain).

While it is true that Iceland became a Christian nation in the year 1,000, I have not heard of any concrete evidence that Þorgeir threw the idols into the waterfall.

Go Car Rental Iceland Go Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

Go Campers – Camper Van Rental in IcelandIf you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Camper van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

Random Fact of the EpisodeDuring World War II, the MS Goðafoss, an Icelandic ship named after the waterfall, was sunk by a German U-Boat. It was transporting both freight and passengers, so the result was that many people lost their lives.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeLögsögumaður – law speaker

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The last 8 years have been a whirlwind for me but I have loved the journey. This is a relatively short episode but I thought it would be nice to give some insight into my life since I moved in 2016.

I am so proud of how much the podcast has grown and I share a bit of that in the episode! Thank you to everyone that has been listening, sharing, and providing feedback on the podcast and my videos on social media, like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. I have so much fun content to share in the near future.

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Who are Iceland’s Ghost Children?with what’s known as a child ghost.

The tale begins when a maid at a local farm gives birth to an unwanted baby. During Iceland’s pagan era, it was common to abandon such children in the wilderness. This harsh and unusual choice was seen as logical for young mothers hoping to avoid judgement and punishment from the local community.

Shortly after this terrible act, the nearby village planned to hold a celebration filled with dancing and singing, known as Vikivaki. The maid was invited but declined because she didn’t have suitable clothes.

On the day of the Vikivaki, the maid was tending to her owner’s sheep with another woman. She lamented her lack of clothes, complaining openly. At that moment, a soft voice sang out to her from beneath the wall of the sheep pen:

“Dear mother, in a pen, a pen, do not worry about it because, because I’ll lend you my rag to dance in and dance in.”

Realizing it was her dead child mocking her from the darkness, the maid was struck with terror. She was haunted by the experience for the rest of her life and was considered insane, tormented by an act that, unfortunately, was not uncommon in heathen Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeVikivaki is one of the most well-known traditional folk dances in Iceland. It is a type of ring dance that requires the dancer’s body to remain quite stiff and has been performed throughout the Nordic regions since the Middle Ages. The dance is performed by both men and women and is relatively easy with simple steps. Vikivaki refers to both the dance and the accompanying music.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÚtbúður means an infant child left outside to die.

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

What is a Hot Spring Bird?This is a relatively short folklore story but is one that might interest anyone who plans to visit or take a dip into a hot spring while in Iceland. There is a type of bird that is said to lurk around hot springs. Over the centuries the description has been that the birds are the size of small ducks. They have mostly dark feathers with some white surrounding their eyes. They have only been spotted around hot springs, which might not seem weird.

However, the catch is that when they are approached, they dive into the boiling hot water and might not be seen again. They have been spotted in the Hveragerði region where people often go on the Reykjadalur hot spring hike.

Well, these reports are from people back in the day but it is possible that visitors are encountering them but don´t know who they are seeing. There have also been sightings of these birds flying out of hot springs. It is a bit shocking to see a bird emerging from a bubbling hot spring. Just something for you to keep your eyes open for when you visit a hot spring in this country.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAccording to the book “Meeting with the Monsters”, there are about 700 hot springs and pools mentioned in a document from 1910 about Iceland.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeHverafuglar – hot spring bird

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Who Was Sæmundur the Learned?Back in the 1100s, Sæmundur Sigfusson was the pastor at the well known ancient manor of Oddi in South Iceland. What was different about Sæmundur is that he had an interesting past with the Devil. It is said that Sæmundur was considered to be wise and he honed his wisdom in many ways over the years. He supposedly attended the Sorbonne in Paris, which has been referred to as the “Black School” in Icelandic because it had a reputation of teaching “black” or dark arts.

In this folklore story I am sharing a series of encounters that Sæmundur had with the Devil. At the Black School that Sæmundur attended, the Devil himself was the headmaster. One strange custom after the students graduated was that the Devil would keep the last student to leave.

To the relief of the other students, Sæmundur volunteered to be the last one to leave. That day Sæmundur was wearing a big coat. When he was walking out the door, the Devil grabbed him and said “You are mine”. However, Sæmundur slipped out of the big coat that the Devil was holding and was able to escape.

How Sæmundur Continued to Outsmart the DevilAfter leaving the school, Sæmundur became even more adept at outsmarting the Devil. He even went as far as to get the Devil to do various tasks for him. In fact, Sæmundur was able to get the pastorship for Oddi because he tricked the Devil into helping him.

When Sæmundur heard that the position was available he was abroad. He knew that many others were applying for the job so he had to get there as quickly as he could. After thinking about what he could do, Sæmundur called upon the Devil and told him that if the Devil could swim him to Iceland without wetting my gown, I will be at your mercy.

The Devil took Sæmundur at his word and turned into a seal to take him over to Iceland. Most of the way, Sæmundur was reading the book of Psalms. As they approached the shore of Iceland, Sæmundur hit the seal on the head, which caused it to sink under water. He got wet and then swam the rest of the way to shore. Because he got wet, the deal was off and Sæmundur could go on to become the pastor of Oddi.

There are many more stories about Sæmundur and this is just a taste of his interactions with the Devil

Random Fact of the EpisodeSæmundur supposedly wrote the history of Norwegian kings in Latin but it is said to be lost. The one way that we seem to know that Sæmundur wrote things is because he has been referenced by Snorri Sturluson.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeSæmundur fróði – Sæmundur the learned

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The Icelandic horse is a breed like no other, with a history that is deeply intertwined with the island nation itself. Brought to Iceland by Norse settlers in the 9th and 10th centuries, these horses have remained a pure breed for over a thousand years.

The isolation of Iceland has played a significant role in maintaining the purity of the Icelandic horse. No other horses have been allowed into the country since the original stock arrived, and once an Icelandic horse leaves the island, it can never return. This strict regulation ensures the breed remains free from diseases and maintains its unique characteristics.

Five Fascinating Facts About Icelandic Horses1. Pure Breed Lineage: As mentioned, Icelandic horses are direct descendants of the horses brought by the Norse settlers, making them one of the purest horse breeds in the world. This uninterrupted lineage has preserved their unique traits and robust health. 2. Lifetime Exile: Due to strict biosecurity measures, any Icelandic horse that leaves Iceland is barred from returning. This policy is in place to protect the breed from foreign diseases and maintain the health and purity of the Icelandic stock. 3. Five Gaits: While most horse breeds have three or four gaits (walk, trot, canter/gallop), Icelandic horses are renowned for their five gaits. In addition to the typical walk, trot, and canter/gallop, they can perform the tölt and the skeið (pace). The tölt is a smooth, four-beat gait that is incredibly comfortable for the rider, while the skeið is a fast, two-beat gait used for racing. 4. Longevity: Icelandic horses are known for their longevity and can live well into their late 20s or even 30s. Some individuals have been known to continue riding well into their 20s, which is a testament to their hardiness and excellent care standards in Iceland. 5. Temperament: Icelandic horses are famous for their friendly and curious nature. They are generally easy to handle and have a calm demeanor, making them excellent companions for riders of all levels. Their intelligence and willingness to please further enhance their appeal.

Interacting with Icelandic Horses: Guidelines for VisitorsIcelandic horses are a national treasure, and their care and preservation are of utmost importance. If you’re lucky enough to encounter these magnificent creatures, here are some guidelines to ensure a safe and respectful interaction:

Do Not Stop in the Middle of the Road: While the sight of Icelandic horses can be mesmerizing, stopping in the middle of the road poses a significant risk. Always ensure that you park your vehicle in a visible and safe location before approaching them.
Pet Horses Appropriately: The best places to pet Icelandic horses are on a horse-riding tour or at a farm, with permission from the owner. Always ask beforehand to ensure that it’s a suitable time and place for interaction.
Do Not Feed the Horses: Icelandic horses are well-fed, and giving them inappropriate food can harm their health. Trust that their caretakers provide them with the necessary nutrition.
Respect Private Property: Most Icelandic horses are kept on private land. Never trespass onto private property without permission. Always respect the boundaries set by property owners.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your interaction with Icelandic horses is both enjoyable and respectful, preserving the well-being of these incredible animals and the cultural heritage they represent.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe Icelandic horse is one of the most colorful breeds in the world. It has over 40 colours and up to 100 variations and, with only few exceptions, most of the known horse colours can be found within the breed.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeHestur – Horse

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Who is Hallbera the Icelandic Ghost?There is an old Icelandic folklore tale about a ghost named Hallbera. It is said that she resides in the Scouts Cabin. She specifically occupies one of the bunks.

Hallbera is known for her mischievous nature, playing pranks on those who sleep in one of the bunks. She might push the unfortunate sleeper onto the floor or give them unsettling dreams. Any strange occurrences in the cabin are often attributed to her. Legend has it that Hallbera once lived on the land where the cabin was built. When construction began, she was forced to leave, vowing to return and haunt the place forever.

The house that Hallbera haunts is part of the Árbær Open Air Museum in the greater Reykjavík area.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe Árbær Open Air Museum vividly depicts the small-town life and environment of Reykjavík in the 19th and 20th centuries. During the summer, museum staff can be seen dressed in period clothing, actively participating in events and exhibitions that bring Reykjavík’s history to life.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeSkátarnir – the scouts

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

The Toddler’s TransformationOne summer on a farm when everyone else where collecting hay, a woman and her child, a toddler, were in the house because she was doing chores. The child was well behaved, spoke fluently and, in general, didn’t make much of a fuss. At some point in the day, the woman needed to clean the milk troughs. Instead of taking him with her, she sat him on the steps right outside of the house so she could keep an eye on him.

When she came back to the house, she spoke to her child but instead of him responding in his normal intelligible and calm voice, he screamed and squealed at her. She was shocked because her child had never behaved like that before. However, it didn’t stop there. From that moment on, the child would either scream, squeal, or act foolishly when spoken to. She was baffled by this and felt so frustrated at his drastic change.

The Mother Seeks AdviceShe went to seek advice from a neighbor about this strange change in her child. In the area, this neighbor was known to be wise and educated. After telling the neighbor about the change, the wise woman asked some questions to get as much helpful information as possible.

After getting the answers, the wise older woman asked the young woman if she thinks it is possible that who she is interacting with is a changeling. Basically, that her child had been swapped out for a creature posing as her child. The young woman didn’t know how to answer that because she was not familiar with changelings and didn’t know how to identify one.

The older woman explained that the way to find out is to leave the child alone in a room with a novel item, something they have never seen before, and observe how they interact with that object. If the kid is saying strange things about the object, go to the child and whip them mercilessly until something happens. Out of desperation, the woman of the child said she will give it a try.

Setting a Trap for a ChangelingThe young woman went back home and thought about something novel to leave her child alone with. While the kid was out of the house, she created a long pole out of wooden shafts and put a small pot on the floor. The pole reached up into the chimney, which is quite long. She then put a spoon on the end of the pole, which was dipping into the pot on the floor. It kind of looked like a super long spoon in a pot.

She gets the child and puts him in the kitchen. After leaving the child in the kitchen alone, she keeps the door cracked so she can hear what is going on. At some point the child is staring at the pot and circling around it. The shocker is that she then hears her child say “I am as old as my beard implies and I have 18 children among the elves and yet I have never seen such a long pole in a little pot.”

Upon hearing that, the woman burst into the kitchen with a really big broom and starts to mercilessly beat whoever is posing to be her child. Not surprising, the changeling is screaming to the high heavens because it hurts. Not long after the beating started, a strange woman appears in the kitchen with the woman’s actual son.

Thankfully, the child looks fine and is just as well behaved as he was in the past. The mother of the child stops beating the changeling and looks at the strange woman who brought her child back. The strange woman expresses that she has been treating the child well and it’s not nice or equal treatment that this person has been beating the butt of her husband. After saying that, the strange woman sets the child down, takes her husband and leaves.

They disappear and neither the child nor its mother see them again. It is said that the child grew up to be just fine.

Random Fact of the EpisodeChangelings in Icelandic folklore show up in many different stories. They are part of the Icelandic Huldufólk. While it wasn’t the case in this story, some of them can be evil or showcase evil behavior.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeHamskipti – changeling

Að skipta um ham – to change mode

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

What Makes a Nykur Different than a Normal Icelandic Horse?Nykur is a water horse that is a gray color but it can shape shift into other things, living or dead. However, it’s said that it can’t take the shape of lambswool or peeled barley.

In most stories, when the Nykur shows up it is normally around water. It lures people in to ride it. The Nykur specifically hangs out around rivers or lakes that are difficult to cross so that you do want to mount it. When you approach it, the Nykur acts super docile and calm. You first think it is a wild horse that is just out and about minding its own business.

The Nykur is hoping that when you see that the river or lake is hard to cross that you jump on it to get a ride across. However, as soon as you mount the horse it immediately starts to gallop into the water. In the water, it turns on its side in the deep area, which catches you off guard. The Nykur uses its body weight to sink you deeper into the water and holds you down there until you drown. Definitely not a fun experience.

How to Avoid Being a Victim of a NykurOne very obvious difference between a Nykur and a regular horse is that it has inverted hoofs. Yes, their hoofs are literally backward

If you have already mounted the Nykur and it starts to gallop towards the water, saying its name “Nykur” will immediately make it throw you off of its back because it hates the sound of its name. It will then head into the water without you.

One story of a child that was able to survive a Nykur is that a young girl was sleeping out in the Icelandic wilderness near some water. A Nykur saw her and started to drag her into the water. She woke up and realized what was happening. Luckily, she was able to say “Leave me alone, Nykur”. Once it heard its name, the creature released her and raced back into the water.

Another way is to make the sign of a cross on the backside of the Nykur is another way to protect yourself.

Random Fact of the EpisodeA Nykur can mate with another horse that is not one of them and create offspring. The offspring look like a regular horse. A big difference is said to be that when water is poured on that horse, it will lay on it side and let the water be poured all over it. Also, if it is going to a river or a lake, it will want to roll over on its side.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeNykur can mean neck in Icelandic but in this context it is a water demon.

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This is the fourth episode for my segment “Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland”. Thank you to everyone who sent in questions. If you want to submit a question, you can do it here.

You can check out previous Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland episodes here.

Answers to the Questions That Were Submitted1.Stephanie J. asked:“What is the tipping culture in Iceland?”Tipping in Iceland is not expected, nor is the service you get dependent on it. While you can tip if you want to, it is certainly not a part of the culture, and some might even tell you that they don’t accept tips due to workers being paid a livable wage.

2.Ana R. asked:“What are your favorites pools and spas around Iceland? Cheers from Brazil!”My favorite high end pools and spas are:

Sky Lagoon
Geo Sea
Forest Lagoon

When it comes to natural hot pools, my favorites are in the West fjords. They are as follows:

Laugarnes on Birkimelur hot pool
Heydalur hot pools and indoor pool in a greenhouse
Krossneslaug pool

For local swimming pools, I really like Lágafellslaug in Mosfellsbær and Laugardalslaug in Reykjavík.

3.Caroline said:“I’m traveling to Iceland from the US and I was curious if I should get some Icelandic kronar before I come to have on hand. I know Iceland prefers cards, but would having cash on hand be helpful?”Because Iceland is becoming an almost cashless society, using cash is not necessary. Even really small vendors take debit and credit cards. You are more than welcome to take out Icelandic Kronar if you want to but you don’t need cash.

4.Caroline said:“What is the tipping culture for tour guides? For example, is it customary to tip the guide and/ or driver if you do a whale watching or glacier lagoon tour?”There is no expectation or encouragement to tip your tour guide. Of course you can if you want to but it is not a custom in Iceland to do that.

5.Stephanie said:“I traveled to Iceland in March 2017 and flew Icelandair. The programming on the flight included tv episodes of an Icelander who had moved to a small town and talked about the life and activities in that town. It was great and I haven’t been able to find it again! Do you happen to know what the show is, or can you recommend other shows about life in Iceland? Thank you!”Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find the show you watched on Icelandair. You can find some shows on RÚV that have English substitles. There is also a channel on RÚV that has educational content. However, it is only in Icelandic.

6.Kelly N. said:“What’s a good way or place to get a daily summary of current events in Iceland (in English! 😉 )…as I’m sure you know, the daily morning and/or evening New York times is what I use in the US…love your show! :)”Here are the Icelandic news outlets online that are in English:

RUV English
Iceland Review
The Reykjavík Grapevine
Iceland Monitor

7.Mariana said:“Have you ever been to the Inside the Vulcano Tour? Is is worth it? Thanks!”Yes, I have been to Inside the Volcano some years ago. I think the experience was unique and interesting. I know it looks quite pricey, but I felt like it was worth it. The inside of the lava chamber was mind-blowing to me.

8.Chrissy P said:“Hi, Jewells! I’m a new listener and fan of the pod. My partner and I are visiting Iceland for the first time at the start of June and will be spending 2 weeks camper vanning it up! We’re birders and overall lovers of nature and are thinking of renting cameras instead of packing and bringing our own. Do you have thoughts or recommendations for renting cameras while we’re in Iceland? I know camera rentals can get pretty pricey quickly. Also, we too are East coast vegans! Thanks so much for all the plant based recs you’ve given on the pod! A bonus question, if it’s okay, would be for your favorite vegan-friendly hot dog spot in Iceland :’) Thanks so much!!”Here is one place that I found where they rent cameras.

These are my favorite vegan hot dog places:

The hot dog stand in Akureyri
The pysluvagninn truck in Selfoss
Vikingapyslur
Vikivaki on Laugavegur

9.Rob From Chattanooga said:“What do Icelanders think about the movie Eurovision Song Contest?”Many Icelanders found the movie to be funny and loved that Iceland was being featured in such a big movie with big movie stars like Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams.

10.Anne C. said:“What is something local people of Iceland miss or like to bring back from other places that might be difficult to get or very expensive there? For example my friends who live in the Virgin Islands miss Peanut Butter, fresh berries and odd things that are difficult to get over there or are expensive. What do you miss food or daily use wise…??? Does that make sense?”Many Icelanders miss having summers or just weather in general that has temperatures above 60-degrees Fahrenheit. It is common for many of them to vacation in Tenerife or other warm locations. Because many things in Iceland are expensive, so many Icelanders will take an extra, empty suitcase for shopping. They can shop for clothes, toys, shoes, and etc.
I miss some foods and restaurants, access to certain hair products, my family and less expensive prices for pretty much anything.

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a folklore story every Friday in 2024.

A Tale from Grímsey IslandI’m sharing about a man and a polar bear in Grímsey, which is the northernmost inhabited island in Iceland. It is the only part of Iceland that is the Arctic circle. I’ve not been there yet, but I have heard it is beautiful. This story takes place many years during a harsh winter.

On this day, no one on the island could keep a fire lit. It seems that they were in short supply of resources for it, which was major problem since it was so cold. The intense cold froze the water in the sound between mainland Iceland and the island, which made it impossible for a ship to get to the island to provide more fire.

Heading Out into the Harsh Winter in Search of FireOne solution was to walk on foot to mainland Iceland to get fire but doing that is a long journey that required resilience and endurance. They decided to pick three of their strongest men to make the journey. Early one morning the men set off on their way. Most of the journey was uneventful until they are halfway across the sound. There, they encounter a big gap in the sound. They are not sure how long and wide it is but it looks like it would be difficult to jump across.

Two of the men jump and barely make it. The last guy does not feel confident he can make the jump so he just stands there. The other two who made the jump suggest that he go back to the island because they need to keep going. Not wanting to give up so easily, the guy walks along the big crack looking for a place that might be easier for him to jump across.

Encountering a Polar BearAs the time passes, it gets darker and colder. Also, a storm rolls in as well. That storm brings southerly winds that blow warmer air, which starts to melt the ice. He gets caught on a big piece of ice that broke off in the sound between the mainland island and Grímsey. That piece of ice just drifts off in the water. Eventually, the storm stops and the piece of ice he is floating on crashes into a large ice sheet.

At this point, he is really hungry, tired and he has no idea how he will get back home. To make matters worse, he encounters a polar bear. For those that do not know, Polar Bear are normally vicious hunters and will not hesitate to kill a person or another animal if they are hungry.

Rightfully so, he is scared. The polar bear has cubs and she looks up at him as he stands there stopped in his tracks. She gives him the once over and starts to circle around him.

How the Polar Bear Saved the Man’s LifeWhen it seems that he is getting stronger after a couple of days, the bear is walking along with him the bear puts her head down and gestures for him to get on her back. When he does, she shakes violently, which makes him fall off immediately.

He has no idea why she did that but just left it alone. For the next few days, she continues to gesture for him to get on her back and shakes so hard that he falls off. At night, she keeps him warm and provides nutrition At one point, he is on her back and she shakes but he is able to hold on. That is when the bear jumps into the water with him on her back and starts swimming to Grímsey.

When they arrive to the island, the man wants to show his gratitude so he gives her milk from his best cows and slaughters some of his best sheep for her to take back to share with her cubs.

She is grateful for that and she heads back to her cubs with food. Everyone in the town is shocked that he had befriended a polar bear. Right after the bear left, they see a ship in the distance and the two guys from earlier in the story were on that ship. They were bringing supplies for fire back to the island.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAccording to a webpage about Grímsey, about 100 people live there but it is home to about 1 million sea birds.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÍsbjörn – Ice bear is the literal translation but it is the word for polar bear in Icelandic.

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At the beginning of 2025, a new travel authorization system called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will come into effect. This new requirement aims to bolster security across Europe, addressing concerns related to terrorism and the influx of migrants and refugees.

Non-EU visitors who previously didn’t need a visa will now have to apply online for ETIAS, which will screen applicants against a database for criminal activities, prior overstays in the EU, and other security issues.

Iceland and the Schengen ZoneWhile Iceland is not part of the EU, it is a member of the Schengen zone, along with countries like Norway and Switzerland. The Schengen zone has uniform rules regarding entry and stay duration.

Therefore, Iceland will implement the same ETIAS requirements as other Schengen countries. This means that if you plan to visit Iceland and then travel to other European destinations, you will need an ETIAS authorization before landing in Reykjavik.

Upon arrival, your passport will be stamped for a maximum stay of 90 days, allowing you to travel freely within the Schengen zone during this period.

Do You Need an Iceland ETIAS Visa Waiver?As long as Iceland remains in the Schengen zone, the ETIAS rules will apply. Whether you need to apply for ETIAS depends on your nationality. Citizens of EU countries will continue to enjoy unrestricted travel across Europe, including Iceland. Non-EU citizens are divided into two categories:

Visa-Exempt Travelers: This includes citizens from North America, Australia, and other countries who previously only needed a valid passport for short visits to Europe. Starting in 2025, these travelers must apply for ETIAS approval. The application fee is €7, and the authorization is valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
Visa-Required Travelers: Citizens from countries not covered by the visa waiver will continue to need a full visa to enter Iceland, as is currently the case.

When Do You Need to Have ETIAS?The ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) is set to launch in early 2025. Following its implementation, there will be a 180-day grace period.

During this six-month grace period, non-EU travelers who previously did not need a visa will need to fill out an ETIAS application form. This period will allow travelers to become familiar with the new requirement and give European travel authorities time to train on the new protocols and address any technical issues that arise.

After the grace period ends, all third-country nationals will be required to have ETIAS approval to enter the Schengen zone.

What will be asked on the ETIAS Application form?The ETIAS online application will ask for basic information as part of the pre-screening check. Below is the information that is said to be required:

Valid passport / Travel document information
Full name
Current address
Citizenship status
Sex
Preferred gender
Dual citizenship status
Email address
Telephone number
Date of birth
Final destination member state
Educational background
Occupational background

During the ETIAS application or appeal process, you may be asked about your:

Criminal history
Past incarceration
Felon status
Past European travel
Drug use
Health history

How Long does Approval of ETIAS applications Take?According to the website about ETIAS applications, it will only take a few minutes for an application to be approved once the payment is completed. While that sounds great, I would not leave applying for ETIAS to the last minute to avoid any possible issues.

Discovering Iceland’s Natural WondersIceland is a treasure trove of unique geological features, offering an abundance of geysers, bubbling mud pots, volcanoes, and lava fields. The country’s geothermal activity makes it a fascinating destination, even in winter, where you can relax in hot pools amidst snow and ice.

However, summer remains the ideal time to visit, especially if you plan to rent a car and explore beyond Reykjavik and Akureyri, Iceland’s two largest cities. If you plan to rent a car, use my code Iceland10 to save 10% on your entire rental cost with Go Car Rental Iceland.

Don’t miss out on Iceland’s breathtaking national parks. Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its historical and geological significance. Vatnajökull National Park boasts Iceland’s highest mountain, largest glacier, and extensive ice fields. You can use My Iceland Map to plan out your epic adventure.

As travel regulations evolve, staying informed is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable journey. With ETIAS in place, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your visit to Iceland and beyond is secure and well-regulated. Enjoy your adventure in this land of fire and ice!

Random Fact of the EpisodeVisa and Travel Authorization Requirements for Visiting the United StatesAll foreigners visiting the United States must hold a valid visa or travel authorization (ESTA) unless they are green card holders. While visas are issued by U.S. embassies, travel authorizations are applied for and issued online.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online platform designed to streamline the application process for the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. For those planning to travel to the USA by air or sea, obtaining travel authorization through ESTA is a mandatory step before beginning their journey.

Requirements to Apply for an ESTATo apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), travelers must meet specific requirements and eligibility criteria. Here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility Criteria1. Citizenship: Only citizens from 41 qualifying countries are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Ensure that your country is on the list of eligible nations. 2. Purpose of Visit: The Visa Waiver Program allows for stays of up to 90 days for purposes including tourism, business, transit, healthcare, or participation in non-credited study programs.

Application Requirements1. Biometric Passport: You must possess a biometric passport that includes a microchip and the relevant symbol on its cover. This passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the United States. 2. ESTA Application: Complete the ESTA application online. It is recommended to apply for ESTA before making any hotel or flight reservations, as there might be a need to apply for a full visa if ESTA is not approved.

Post-ApprovalOnce your ESTA application is approved, you can update it with your final itinerary details before your departure. This flexibility allows you to finalize your travel plans with confidence.

By meeting these requirements, you can ensure a smooth application process and secure your travel authorization to visit the United States under the Visa Waiver Program.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeVegabréfsáritun – VisaVegabréf – passport

Áritun – Signed document

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This is part of my Folklore Friday Series, where I am sharing an Icelandic folklore story every Friday in 2024.

A King’s Decree Leads To Iceland’s Land Spirits Being DiscoveredIn the Heimskringla saga of King Olaf Tryggvason, there is a captivating tale of King Harald Bluetooth’s failed attempt to invade Iceland. According to the saga, Harald tasked a sorcerer who transformed into a fearsome whale, with finding the island’s vulnerabilities. However, each time the whale-sorcerer tried to land, he was repelled by supernatural beings known as Land Spirits, Iceland’s guardians.

A Sorcerer Encounters Iceland’s Land SpiritsThe whale-sorcerer’s first attempt to land was in the Eastern Fjords, where he encountered a ferocious dragon. This dragon was so powerful that it is said that its fiery breath could make the ocean burn. To add to that, the flaps of its wings sounded like thunder. Alongside the dragon were terrifying snakes, lizards, and slithering spirits. Fearing for its life, the whale retreated farther back into the ocean.

A little shaken but still determined, the sorcerer/whale found himself in the north of Iceland, aiming to land in Eyjafjörður. Here, a massive griffin with an immense wingspan descended from the skies. Countless birds with razor-sharp talons and beaks like battle axes came with it. Together, they drove the whale-sorcerer away.

For his third attempt, the whale tried to land in the Westfjords of the country, specifically Breiðafjörður, where an enormous bull awaited him. Unlike other bulls, this one was said to have a body as solid as the earth, bronze horns, and a hide as tough as stone. To add to its insane exterior, one bellow from the bull made the mountains shake. and a body as solid as the earth, the bull’s bellowing made the mountains tremble. Not surprisingly, the whale-wizard had no intention of going head-to-head with the bull, so it fled.

In a final desperate attempt to find a vulnerable spot on the island to report back to the King, the sorcerer aimed for the Reykjanes peninsula. Here, he faced an enormous giant whose head towered above the hilltops. Armed with an iron staff and with a formidable army of other giants, the giant sent the whale-sorcerer fleeing back to the sea, thwarting King Harald Bluetooth’s invasion plans.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThese guardians protect Iceland, each overseeing a quarter of the island. To this day, these Land Spirits are deeply respected and are featured on the Icelandic coat of arms, as well as the Icelandic króna coins. They symbolize the protection and prosperity of Iceland’s land and its spiritual and physical inhabitants.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeLandvættir is the Icelandic word for land spirits.

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Iceland straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. This unique geographical setting has led to some fascinating geological features and dynamic landscapes.

In this episode, I go over the geology a little bit, the main reason why Iceland does not split in two even though the tectonic plates are slowing moving apart, and where in the country you can enjoy seeing the Mid-Atlantic Ridge in the country.

The Mid-Atlantic Ridge and Iceland’s Unique PositionThe Mid-Atlantic Ridge is a submarine mountain range that runs down the center of the Atlantic Ocean, marking the boundary between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. In most places, this ridge lies deep underwater, but in Iceland, it rises above the sea, creating a rare opportunity to observe tectonic activity on land.

Iceland owes its existence to this tectonic setting. The ridge is characterized by divergent boundaries, where the plates are moving away from each other. As these plates diverge, magma rises from the mantle to fill the gap, creating new crust. This process is responsible for the volcanic activity that has shaped Iceland’s rugged terrain.

The Nature of Tectonic PlatesThe movement of tectonic plates is a slow and gradual process. The Eurasian and North American plates are drifting apart at an average rate of about 2.5 centimeters (.9 inches) per year. While this may seem significant, it’s important to put it in perspective. Over millions of years, this movement will indeed widen the Atlantic Ocean, but the effect on Iceland is much more subtle.

The divergence of these plates does cause fissures and rift valleys, such as the Þingvellir National Park, where the rift between the plates is visible. However, this does not mean Iceland will split in half. Instead, the country is constantly being reshaped and reformed by volcanic activity and the upwelling of magma, which fills in any gaps created by the diverging plates.

Volcanic Activity and Land FormationOne of the key factors that prevent Iceland from splitting is its volcanic activity. Iceland is one of the most volcanically active regions in the world, with eruptions occurring roughly every four to five years. In most recent years, we have seen an increase in volcanic eruptions with them happening multiple times in a year just in 2024. These eruptions are part of the same process that forms the mid-ocean ridges.

When magma from beneath the Earth’s crust reaches the surface, it cools and solidifies, forming new land. This continuous creation of new crust compensates for the divergent movement of the tectonic plates. Instead of splitting apart, Iceland is actually growing larger over time as new volcanic material is added to its landmass.

The Role of the Icelandic Mantle PlumeAdding to the volcanic activity is the presence of the Icelandic mantle plume, a column of hot, molten rock that rises from deep within the Earth. This plume provides a steady supply of magma, which fuels Iceland’s numerous volcanoes. The mantle plume is thought to be responsible for the high levels of volcanic activity and the formation of Iceland itself.

The mantle plume’s upwelling helps to reinforce the island’s structure. As magma rises and cools, it forms new rock that acts to fill in and stabilize any fractures or rifts caused by the diverging plates. This process ensures that while fissures and rifts are part of Iceland’s landscape, they do not lead to the island splitting apart.

Geophysical Studies and PredictionsExtensive geophysical studies have been conducted to monitor Iceland’s tectonic activity. Seismologists and geologists use a range of tools, including GPS measurements, seismographs, and satellite imagery, to track the movement of the plates and the activity of the mantle plume. These studies provide valuable insights into the dynamics at play.

The data shows that while there are indeed rifting events and volcanic eruptions, the overall structure of the island remains stable. The creation of new crust through volcanic activity outpaces the divergent movement of the tectonic plates, maintaining the integrity of the landmass.

Where to Experience the Mid Atlantic Ridge in IcelandThere are two well marked areas where you can experience the rift valley in Iceland. The most well known place is Thingvellir National Park, which is part of the famous Golden Circle route. Here, you can walk in the rift valley, which is the valley between the Eurasian and North American Tectonic Plates.

I shared in a recent episode about snorkeling between these plates and how incredibly fun it is. If you plan to do that, you can use my code Iceland10 to save 10% when you book with Arctic Adventures.

If you are curious about all of the stops on the Golden Circle, including some fun extras, check out my Ultimate Golden Circle episode that I shared on the podcast.

The other place is on the Reykjanes Peninsula. In fact, there is a Bridge between Continents attraction there. It is a symbolic bridge named after Leifur Eriksson that shows that you cross between continents. Technically, it is that you can cross between plates but because most of North America is on the North American tectonic plate and most of Europe is on the Eurasian tectonic plate, it is advertised as between continents.

Random Fact of the EpisodeA unique feature of Iceland is that it is only inhabited island in the world where the Mid-Atlantic ridge is visible on land.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeAtlantshafshryggurinn – Atlantic Ridge

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This is part of my Folklore Friday Series, where I am sharing an Icelandic folklore story every Friday in 2024.

A Magical Woman from Norway Migrates to IcelandIn the book of the Icelanders, or Landnámabók, is a person named Þuríður syndafyllir and her son Völu-Steinn. They immigrated from Northern Norway and settled in Bolungarvík in the Westfjords of Iceland.

It was rumored that Þuríður had incredible powers. One story about her when she lived in Norway was that she cast a spell that filled all the straits with fish.

Fighting Over Land – Petty or Justified?This particular Folklore story is about a quarrel she had with her brother Þjóðólfur. One day her brother asked Þuríður to give him land at Bolungarvík. She agreed to letting him have the land he could fence in on his own in a day.

While Þjóðólfur had planned to fence off land that started at Stigi and included Hlíðardalur, and Tungudalur, he only made it about half way to the middle of Tungudalur. Even though the deal was pretty clear, Þjóðólfur was not happy that his sister would not allow him to also have Tungudalur included as part of his land.

To get back at her for denying him, he decided to steal one of her ox that she kept at Stigihlíð. To Þjóðólfur´s suprise, his sister caught him trying to steal the ox and ran after him. He was quick but she caught up to him at Ófæra and tried to get the animal back. However, her brother won that battle.

Not one to be outdone, Þuríður cast a spell upon Þjóðólfur that would turn him into a stone that many birds would defecate on. The part about being pooped on is specifically part of this story. LOL. Well, her brother was magically inclined as well, and he cast a spell for her to be turned into a rock that is placed where the highest winds blow.

Turning Each Other to StoneWell, both of their spells worked and each turned into stone. Þjóðólfur became a rock that rolled into the water but was never full submerged. A variety of birds would land on it and leave behind their waste. Apparently, the locals knew of this story and the stone.

They called in Þjóðólfur after the brother and would talk about it when walking by. It is said that in 1936, the stone vanished probably because the end of the spell had been reached. Þuríður became a stone at the northern part of Óshlíð and might still be there to this day.

Make Your Own Itinerary with My Iceland MapAnother great resource is to grab full access to my Iceland map. This map was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.

With full access, you get over 280 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeÓshlíð, the historical road connecting Bolungarvík and Hnífsdalur, began construction in the 1950s and was once the sole link for Bolungarvík residents to Iceland’s road network. As of 2010, the route no longer accommodates vehicle traffic due to the opening of the new Bolungarvík tunnel. However, Óshlíð has been repurposed as a scenic outdoor area for recreation. The smooth pavement provides ideal conditions for cyclists and runners seeking a nature immersion. The imposing cliffs towering 300 to 400 meters above can make one feel quite diminutive.

Óshlíð is notorious for its challenging road conditions, with frequent avalanches, rockfalls, and debris. Parts of the road have deteriorated due to harsh weather and coastal erosion. Consequently, tourists are urged to exercise caution and park their cars at either end of the pass. Driving on this road is not advisable as accidents are not covered by insurance for either vehicles or their occupants.

For a memorable experience, Óshlíð is particularly recommended during the luminous summer evenings when the sunset views are unparalleled. Informational signage is available at Hnífsdalur, marking the starting point of the Óshlíð route. There, visitors can also find a quaint spot to enjoy a coffee before walking towards the sunset

Icelandic word of the episodeSundafyllir – Strait Filler is the nickname for Þuríður

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Rökkvi Vésteinsson was born in 1978 in Iceland. He had a multicultural upbringing, living in Chicago at age 11, and spending summers in Denmark and Sweden during his teens. By age 20, he was fluent in four foreign languages, thanks to his travels and a stint as an au pair in Germany.

Rökkvi began his professional journey guiding one-day tours from Reykjavík to Kulusuk, Greenland at 23, leveraging his language skills in English, German, and Danish. He simultaneously embarked on a career in stand-up comedy starting in 2003.

After completing degrees in Biochemistry and Computer Science at Háskóli Íslands, he worked in Montreal as a programmer and software tester from 2004-2005, where he continued his comedy career. He also intermittently guided tours in Greenland and Iceland.

In 2017, Vésteinsson transitioned to full-time tour guiding, leading a variety of tours across Iceland, including multi-day and cruise ship tours, distillery tours, and city walks in Reykjavík. His guiding languages expanded to include Icelandic, English, German, Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Dutch, and French, reflecting his continuous language learning.

Vésteinsson’s passion for languages led him to LingQ in 2019, where he learned French and other languages to literacy. He collaborated with LingQ’s CEO, contributing significantly to their Icelandic resources and successfully advocating for free Icelandic learning on the platform.

Today, Vésteinsson continues to add educational content to LingQ and promotes language learning in Iceland. He also performs comedy in multiple languages across various countries, showcasing his diverse linguistic and cultural fluency.

Have a Question for RökkviThrough my link for “Ask Jewells Anything”, feel free to submit a question for Rökkvi. Please add into the description box that it is for him.

Learn More About GreenlandDuring the interview, Rökkvi and I talked about Greenland. Here is an episode where you can learn more about modern Greenland and how some Greenlandic activist are working to reclaim their culture.

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Where Iceland’s Loch Ness Monster Lives Lagarfljot, nestled in eastern Iceland, is not just a lake but a river channel flowing from the majestic Vatnajokull glacier to the sea. This secluded area carries a mysterious aura, providing fertile ground for local folklore.

Visitors from the east of Iceland or those who have journeyed to Reykjavik might share tales of a monstrous inhabitant lurking in the murky depths of the lake, reminiscent of Scotland’s famous Loch Ness monster.

This creature, known as Lagarfljotsormur, a name that challenges even the bravest linguist, translates to “the Lagarfljot worm.” Reported sightings by locals have captured this enigmatic being on film, where it appears as an elusive, moving shape beneath the water’s surface.

How Lagarfljótsormur Came to BeAccording to legend, the origins of this creature stem from a young girl’s encounter with greed. Gifted a gold ring by her mother, she sought advice on how to maximize its value. Her mother relayed a local myth: placing a worm on gold would make the gold multiply.

The girl, hoping to increase her wealth, locked a worm in a chest with the ring. Contrary to her hopes, the worm grew exponentially. Overcome with fear upon discovering the worm’s transformation, she hurled the chest into the lake.

Since that day, the creature, resembling a giant sea snake, has surfaced sporadically, captured in fleeting video glimpses that stoke the fires of legend and debate. To some, these images are proof of its existence; to others, they are mere fragments of myth. The true nature of Lagarfljotsormur remains shrouded in mystery, its legend undiminished by time.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThere have been numerous people that claim to have seen this giant worm and there was even a video that came out once that was said to be footage of it.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeLagarfljótsormur – the Lagarfljot worm

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Have you ever imagined swimming between two continents, touching the jagged edges of the earth’s crust beneath crystal-clear water? I had the unforgettable experience of snorkeling in Silfra Fissure, located in the heart of Thingvellir National Park, Iceland.

This unique adventure is available all year round, and whether you visit during the chilly embrace of December or the milder days of April, like I did, it’s an exhilarating experience not to be missed.

Arctic Adventures is a premier travel company in Iceland, offering a wide array of day and multi-day tours that showcase the breathtaking natural beauty of this volcanic island.

From snorkeling and glacier hiking to exploring the eruptive landscapes, they ensure a memorable and safe adventure for all. I’ve partnered with them for this post, and by using my code Iceland10, you can save 10% on any of their tours. Check out their offerings at adventures.is and plan your next epic journey!

What is Silfra Fissure in Thingvellir National Park in Iceland?Silfra Fissure is a remarkable rift formed between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This gap widens slightly each year, filled with glacial meltwater that is filtered through underground lava for nearly a century before it emerges as some of the clearest and freshest water on earth. Snorkeling here, you are literally floating between continents, in water visibility that extends up to 100 meters (about 328 feet), making it one of the top dive sites in the world.

My Arctic Adventure BeginsMy journey began in the historic Thingvellir National Park, just about an hour’s drive from Reykjavik. I chose to drive myself to the meeting point, parking in Lot 5 and walking a short distance to where Arctic Adventures had set up. It was a brisk 10 degrees Celsius in April—a perfect day for snorkeling.

After a quick registration and waiver signing, the team helped us suit up. We were advised to wear thin thermal layers and thick wool socks under provided thick onesie thermal suits. Over these, they layered us into snug dry suits complete with gloves, a dry suit material face mask, snorkel mask, and fins.

Given the water temperature hovers around 2-3 degrees Celsius, these dry suits were crucial for keeping our core body temperatures stable. And yes, take advantage of the restrooms before you suit up—it’s a lot easier!

The Snorkeling Experience in Silfra FissureThe walk to the water’s edge was brief, and entering the water was seamless. Visibility was phenomenal; we could see the divers below us looking as if they were hovering just feet away due to the clarity of the water. A soft current gently pulled us through the fissure, meaning we could enjoy the surreal surroundings without much effort.

The guide even snapped photos during our adventure, which were later available for download—truly epic shots that captured the ethereal blue of the waters, which are so pure you can drink from them.

Warmth After the ChillPost-snorkel, we were treated to hot chocolate or tea and cookies, a welcome treat that helped warm us from the inside out. While the dry suits did an excellent job overall, my hands did feel the chill, especially my left one, which got uncomfortably cold. Fortunately, the sunny weather helped in warming up quickly once we were out of the water

Overall ImpressionsDespite the minor chill, the experience was nothing short of magical. Snorkeling at Silfra with Arctic Adventures was a highlight of my adventures in Iceland—a truly unique experience where you can float between two worlds. It’s something I’d recommend to anyone visiting Iceland, no matter the season.

For more information on booking your own adventure and to utilize discounts, check out the “Trip Planning Help” tab at the top of my website allthingsiceland.com. Don’t forget to use Iceland10 to save on your booking with Arctic Adventures.

Here’s to your next adventure—may it be as breathtaking as snorkeling in Silfra!

Random Fact of the EpisodeSilfra and other fissures in the park were created after an earthquake in 1789. The water in the fissure is meltwater from the nearby Langjökull glacier. After melting from the glacier, it takes a long journey through underground lava fields before reaching the fissure.

It’s approximated that it takes about 30-100 years for the glacier melt water to flow about 31 miles or 51 kilometers to the fissure. The water is not only crystal clear, but also absolute delicious to drink.

Icelandic Word of the Episode Silfra – silvery

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing fascinating stories from Icelandic folklore on Fridays throughout 2024.

How Rusty “The Brown One” Became a GhostRusty is a boy that is the main character of this story. According to the legend, he was 16 years old in the late 1700s in Iceland, and one day is he was out walking during a bad storm. Unfortunately, Rusty only had rags on and it was hard for him to find shelter.

At one point he finally found a farm, knocked on the door and asked the farmer if he can stay there until the storm had passed. To Rusty’s surprise, the farmer turned him away. Rusty decided to continue on walking in the storm and sadly he ended up drowning in a large body of water.

After he died, I guess his ghost made the choose to come back and haunt the farmer tha denied him shelter on that fatal night. However, he didn‘t just haunt the farmer. He haunted the family of the farmer for generations. So, if anything went wrong it was blamed on Rusty, the Brown One.

Some examples include marriages not working out, farm equipment breaking, things going missing and so on. Apparently, Rusty‘s ghost was not satisfied with just haunting the family because it‘s said that he started to haunt travelers as well on the south coast.

Rusty Formed a “Ghost Gang”A young woman that died in a similar way to Rusty ended up joining Rusty as a ghost to haunt travelers. In an even weirder twist to the story, the ghosts of Rusty and the young somehow caused the death of another person. This individual also became a ghost and joined their ghost gang to haunt people. If you plan to travel along Iceland‘s South Coast, know that there is a chance that you might be haunted by this trio of ghosts.

Random Fact of the EpisodeGhost stories are very popular in Icelandic folklore. Every region has a plethora of stories about ghosts, mostly people who we might consider to be wronged in some way, who come back to haunt people. I have some fascinating ones to share in the near future, so keep your eye out for that.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeGhost – draugur

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This is the third response episode for my new segment “Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland”. Thank you to everyone who sent in questions and if you would like to submit a question, you can do it here.

Should I exchange a small amount of currency before I leave? I have heard that Iceland is a cashless society, but I am thinking about tour guide tips or random purchases.- ChristinaIceland is not yet a cashless society, but we are certainly heading quickly in that direction. It isn’t necessary to take out cash in the local currency because debit and credit cards are the preferred method of payment. Also, tipping is not expected or encouraged because companies pay their employees livable wages for their work. You can, of course, take out cash to tip your guide or make random purchases if you prefer to pay that way but that’s up to you because it is not required.
Hi, I have another question! You wear such beautiful Icelandic sweaters on your Instagram. Where should I shop when I come in the spring? Somewhere that has really nice ones and doesn’t jack up the prices for tourists? – AlisonKolaportið is flea market by the old harbor that is only open during weekends. There are some vendors there that are selling handmade Icelandic sweaters for a decent price.

Another place is the Handknitting association of Iceland. They have two locations in Reykjavík and all of their sweaters are handknit in the country. One helpful tip is to make sure you get the appropriate form at the store to get the 24% VAT (Value added tax) back at the airport when you leave the country. Iceland has that tax included in the price but they refund it for tourists on certain items.

“Hi Jewells,I have recently discovered your podcast, and have been binge listening to episodes to prepare for my upcoming trip in May! ( I am so excited!) I am learning so much, and I appreciate hearing about your experiences! Thank you!You mentioned that eating in restaurants is quite pricey in Iceland for a variety of reasons, including allowing restaurant owners to be able to pay their employees a living wage. Is it still customary to leave a tip for waitstaff? If so , is the recommnded amount the same as the US? (20-25%)Thank you for taking the time to read my question.” – VickieThe great news is that tipping is not part of the culture in Iceland, so you don’t have to factor in any % to your bill. This applies in every place, including cafes.
Hi Jewells! My family will be there in June. Is there a traditional event for summer solstice? – RuthUnlike other Nordic nations, Iceland does not have nationwide celebrations for the summer solstice. One place that has an annual event is in the far north. It is an island called Grímsey. They have a multiple day festival to celebrate the long and seemingly endless summer day. Here is where you can find the program for last year. I assume they will have the 2024 program soon. Please note that you need to take either a boat or plane to reach Grímsey. I have heard that many people get sea sick on the boat, so keep that in mind if you choose that option.
“Thank you so much for your informative podcasts! My wife and I are planning to visit Iceland for the first time in October 2025. We believe that the best way to experience a new place is to immerse ourselves in it and to attempt to learn the language. What was your experience in learning the Icelandic language, and what do you recommend is a good way/resource to learn the language?” – GeraldMy recommendation for learning Icelandic is to get as much input of the language as you can in a way that you can relate to. Meaning, it helps to see shows or read text at your level or slightly above that you can understand enough to start internalizing it. Input that is repetitive can help you to become more familiar wth certain sounds and phrases. As a visitor, my episode on Useful Icelandic Phrases for Visitors is a good place to start. The other resources I listed below can help too.
LingQ is free for those learning Icelandic
Viltu læra íslensku
Íslenska fyrir alla
Drops – the only one on the list you have to pay for
Hi Jewels! Have you been to the “Sorcery Festival” in Hólmavík? It takes place in late April and looks really interesting. – RuthI have yet to attend that festival but it sounds like a lot of fun. If you get a chance to attend, Ruth, I would love to hear about your experience.
Hi Jewells! I was hoping you could talk about the tipping culture in Iceland. Thanks! – JuliaThankfully, Iceland does not have a culture of tipping. Due to unions negotiating on behalf of workers for fair and livable wages from employees, tipping is not necessary or encouraged in Iceland.
Hi Jewells! Do you have a suggestion for whale watching in the south of Iceland? I won’t have enough time to make it to Húsavík, but I still want to go. I’m visiting in June and torn between whale watching in Reykjavik or Olafsvik.- CaseyYes, whale watching from Reykjavík can be a lot of fun. You might see Minke whales, humpback whales, porpoises and dolphins. If you are looking for a company that does it from the harbor in the city, then I recommend Arctic Adventures. You can use my code Iceland10 to save 10% on any of their tours, including the whale watching one.
What itinerary would you suggest for a person with only 8 full days in Iceland who wants to see as much as possible. – MarilynThere are many factors that come into play when planning a trip in Iceland, including when you plan to come, what kind of budget you have, the accommodations you prefer and so on. My suggestion, without knowing any of that information up front, is to split the eight days up as the following:

1 Day in Reykjavik when you arrive

1 Day on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula

2 Days in North Iceland

1 Day around the Golden Circle

2 Days in the South/Southeast

1 Day either back in Reykjavik or the Reykjanes Peninsula

If you would like to discuss your trip in more detail, feel free to book a video consultation with me and I can help you plan a more personalized itinerary.

Which ice caves and glaciers have you visited and which ones are you favorites? – AnaI like the Katla Ice Cave, Into the Glacier, and naturally forming ice caves that guides often find on the glacier during winter that do not have names because they are not expected to last into the summer. Arctic Adventures has tours like that and you can use my code Iceland10 to save 10% on any of their tours and activities.
My question is: What’s the meaning of the Icelandic phrases that you say at the end of each episode? I might have missed the explanation in one of your earlier episodes since I became only a regular listener a couple of months ago. I’ve always loved the sound of the Icelandic language and would love to know more about it, even though I’m not ready to commit to learning it yet 😀 – JonasThe phrase I say at the end is „Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega“. It means thank you kindly for listening and see you soon.
We will be driving all around Iceland for about 12 days. How much ISK would you recommend we bring? – StephanieIn the podcast episode I go more in-depth into the numbers but for two people during summer I have an estimate of about $8,000. That is kind of on the conservative end.

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing fascinating stories from Icelandic folklore on Fridays throughout 2024.

A Troll Lurking in Iceland’s East FjordsMjóifjörður (or narrow fjord) used to have up to 100 inhabitants centuries ago but it is now only about 14 people live there. During the winter it is common for the roads to be completely blocked off and the inhabitants can only be reached by boat.

The troll of this story was said to be around centuries ago when there were more people living in the fjord. She lived in a beautiful gorge called Prestagil. It‘s said tha the troll would use her magical powers to make the priests of the church in small farm called Fjörður go mad.

Priests Enchanted by a Hungry Troll Her routine was to wait fo the pastor to be at the pulpit of the church on Sunday and then she would wave her hand outside the pulpit window. The pastor would see this and it would somehow enchant him to say:

Tear out my guts and my heart

Off to the gorge I’ll depart

Tear out my lust and my seed

To Mjóifjörður gorge I shall speed

After saying this, the priest would run out of the church as fast as he could into the gorge where the troll lived and was never seen again. Due to the Troll telling a traveler once that she was nibbling on the head of a former priest of the Fjörður, news spread that the troll was eating the men.

Several priests took the position over the years and each one disappeared after being enchanted by the troll. Naturally, priests became too afraid to serve there because they didn’t want to become Troll food.

A Brave Priest Comes AlongFinally, a priest volunteered even though he knew of the danger. What this priest did differently than the others was that he came up with a plan. Before his first mass, he assembled a group of men that normally attended the church.

He instructed them to do the following: When the troll tried to enchant him, six men will hold him back from running out of the church, another six will ring the church bells, and ten men will hold the church doors shut.

The fateful Sunday arrived and just as expected, the Troll waved her hand at the pulpit window. The priest immediately became enchanted and said the rhyme.

All of the men jumped into action. While the men held the priest back from fleeing the church, the other men rang the church bells like crazy. When the troll heard the bells she fled into the gorge and was never seen again.

Random Fact of the EpisodeKlifbrekkufossar is a seven tiered waterfall in Mjóifjörður that is worth seeing if you are in the area and have time to drive into this fjord.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodePrestagil – Pastor’s Gorge

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Interviews are one of my favorite things to do for the podcast, so I was delighted when Laura was available to come on and share about her experience moving from the San Francisco Bay area to one of the most remote parts of the Westfjords in Iceland.

Background About Laura Alice WattLaura Alice Watt is a professor emerita of environmental history and policy at Sonoma State University in Northern California. She arrived in the Westfjords in July 2020 with a Fulbright-NSF Arctic Scholar grant to conduct historical research in Iceland, and decided to stay long-term. She teaches occasional courses at the University Centre of the Westfjords, where she also provides writing support for graduate students with their thesis projects.

Before taking early retirement from Sonoma State, she spent fifteen years as professor in the Department of Geography, Environment, and Planning, and also Graduate Coordinator for SSU’s Cultural Resource Management masters program. She now lives on the northern shore of Dýrafjörður with her two cats, and is an avid photographer and knitter.

Questions I Asked Laura During the Interview* Where did you grow up in the US? * What was your profession while living in the US? * What inspired you to come to Iceland? * When did you know you wanted to stay here? * Why did you choose the Westfjords to live in Iceland? * What do you like about living in Iceland? * What do you dislike about living in Iceland? * What do you miss from the US (if anything at all)? * Do you ever see yourself moving back to the US? * How has your Icelandic learning journey been since moving here? * What advice do you have for people who want to move to Iceland? * What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Icelandic Phrase of the EpisodeGlöggt er gests augað – Keen is the eye of the guest

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing fascinating stories from Icelandic folklore on Fridays throughout 2024.

What is a Skuggabaldur?The Skuggabaldur is a fascinating animal in Icelandic folklore. Whether or not this type of animal really exists is hard to say but there are some interesting stories about it. A Skuggabaldur is created when a female arctic fox and a male cat or Tom cat get together and procreate.

If a male arctic fox and a female cat procreate, it is called a Skoffín. However, we are just going to focus on the Skuggabaldur for this episode. These animals are known to have very intense bites that inflict a lot of pain and death. Guns are not much use against them unless you are using silver bullets.

The Most Popular Skuggabaldur StoryOne day in the north, particularly near Blönduós, a Skuggabaldur had been inflicting a lot of damage on the livestock in the area. The farmers there decided to hunt it down. They did eventually find the animal in Blöndugil, which is a small canyon in the area. One of the hunters ended up stabbing it.

Before the Skuggabaldur was killed, it said to tell the Tom Cat at Bollastaðir that the Skuggabaldur had been stabbed in the canyon. The people that were witnesses to this thought it was quite strange that this creature had a message for a cat but whatever.

The person who ended up stabbing and killing the Skuggabaldur was staying in Bollastaðir that evening. As he was recounting his story about killing the Skuggabaldur, he repeated what the message the creature has said to tell the Tom Cat.

Well, there was a Tom Cat listening in the rafters to the story and when he heard what the Skuggabaldur had said, it lept down to attack the man. It sunk its claws and teeth deep into the man’s neck and would not let go. The only way to stop the cat was to chop off its head. By that time, the man was already dead. I don‘t know if the Tom Cat was a relative of the Skuggabaldur but it certainly got revenge for its death.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThere is a book called “Skuggabaldur” by a well-known Icelandic poet and author named Sjón. In English, the book is called „The Blue Fox“. I have yet to read it but I want to. Apparently, knowing about the Skuggabaldur creature gives some deep insight into understanding all that is going on in this book.

According to one reviewer of the book:

“The Blue Fox,” by Sjon, is a dark, yet playful and humorous fable about a kind man, an evil man, a simpleton, and a blue fox. It is about fate, life, and human nature. The novella deals with evil cloaked in religion and justice being delivered in mysterious ways. It is full of hidden meaning, subtlety, and delightful intellectually amusing diversions.”

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeSkuggabaldur – roughly translates to a shadow cat

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Iceland’s coffee culture is – deeply ingrained in the social fabric of Icelandic society. Along with being a drink that perks people up, grabbing a cup of coffee in Iceland is often a social interaction, where the drink is enjoyed in the company of others, many times in cozy settings. This communal aspect is so integral that offering coffee to guests is considered a basic hospitality gesture.

The Icelandic Coffee Scene in Downtown ReykjavíkReykjavík, the heart of Iceland’s coffee scene, is home to a plethora of unique cafés, each with its own character and offerings, but bound by the common thread of quality and creativity.

Local cafes that offer high-quality coffee experiences thrive here. While there is no Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts in Iceland, even though Dunkin was here for a brief time, there is one international coffee chain called Joe & the Juice.

However, local cafes dominate the coffee scene and I’m going to share some of them that might interest you if you also happen to be a coffee lover. This is not an exhaustive list by any means but it’s a great starting point for enjoying the Icelandic coffee scene.

Mokka KaffiMokka Kaffi is a testament to Reykjavík’s rich coffee history, being one of the city’s oldest cafés. Established in 1958, it was the pioneer in introducing the Italian espresso culture to Iceland. Beyond its historic significance, Mokka Kaffi has been a cultural hub for artists and writers and continues to be celebrated for its classic ambiance, monthly art exhibitions, and iconic Icelandic hot chocolate and waffles.

Reykjavík RoastersReykjavík Roasters, originally known as Kaffismiðja Íslands, emerged in 2008 and has since become a cornerstone of Reykjavík’s coffee culture. Their philosophy revolves around importing high-quality beans and roasting them meticulously to bring out the best flavors for coffee aficionados.

The café takes pride in sourcing its beans directly from farmers, particularly in Colombia, ensuring ethical practices and respect for both the environment and the people involved in coffee production. This direct relationship with coffee farmers reflects the café’s commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices.

Reykjavík Roasters has established itself as a hub for serious coffee lovers, offering a range of coffee without decaf options, emphasizing the pure coffee experience. The cozy atmosphere, combined with the café’s reputation for quality, makes it a place where people often share tables with fellow coffee enthusiasts, fostering a sense of community among its patrons.

Kaffitár Coffee HouseKaffitár represents the modern evolution of Icelandic coffee, with a focus on sustainability and quality. As a leading coffee provider, Kaffitár sources its beans from renowned coffee-growing regions and is known for its espresso bars, seasonal drinks, and as a wholesaler of coffee. Their presence in supermarkets across Iceland allows both locals and visitors to take a piece of Icelandic coffee culture home.

Café BabalúCafé Babalú, with its eclectic charm and vibrant orange exterior, stands out as a cozy retreat offering a range of coffee, cakes, and desserts. Known for its friendly atmosphere, it’s a place where one can enjoy unlimited refills of black coffee, making it a favorite among both locals and tourists seeking a warm, welcoming space.

Te og Kaffi (Tea & Coffee)Te og Kaffi is a family-owned chain, which started in 1984, that has significantly contributed to what many call the Icelandic coffee revolution, marrying tradition with innovation to serve some of the finest coffee in the region.

With eight cafés spread across the capital, Te og Kaffi is renowned for its commitment to quality, from sourcing beans to the art of brewing, ensuring each cup reflects their dedication to the craft. Their baristas are not just skilled but also passionate about coffee, providing a warm and welcoming experience to all who visit.

Beyond just serving coffee, Te og Kaffi is deeply involved in the coffee-making process, operating their own roastery and offering a wide range of coffee-related products and training courses aimed at enhancing brewing skills and knowledge.

Reykjavík RöstReykjavík Röst is a lovely café located by the Old Harbour in Reykjavík in a beautiful turquoise colored house. It was established in the summer of 2017, and prides itself on serving quality coffee, including traditional options and innovative creations.

Some of the innovative ones include Keto coffee and beverages infused with Chaga and Reishi mushrooms, whimsically named “Magic Mushroom.” Their focus on quality extends to their food offerings as well, with a special emphasis on sourdough bread sandwiches and homemade soups, using locally sourced ingredients like Icelandic smoked salmon and lamb.

What sets Reykjavík Röst apart is not just its culinary offerings but also its cozy and welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by stunning views of the harbor. The café also takes pride in its selection of Icelandic cakes, traditional pastries. For those who enjoy a good brew, Reykjavík Röst has a selection of local beers on tap, cocktails, and a full bar available in the evenings, making it a perfect spot for both coffee aficionados and those looking to enjoy a relaxing evening by the harbor.

Kattakaffihúsið – The Cat Coffee HouseKattakaffihúsið, Reykjavík’s first cat café, adds a unique twist to the Icelandic coffee culture. While the concept of a cat café, originally popularized in Japan, might seem unusual in the context of Iceland, Kattakaffihúsið has found its place by offering not just a cozy café experience but also an opportunity for cat adoption.

This concept addresses the human desire for animal companionship, which in densely populated cities like Tokyo led to the creation of spaces where people could enjoy the company of pets they couldn’t have at home due to space or legal restrictions. Kattakaffihúsið brings this idea to Reykjavík with a charitable angle, aiming to provide a safe haven for cats until they find a permanent home.

You can use my code ALLTHINGSICELAND (in all caps) to save 10% on your Cat Walk Tour and over 45 other tours you book with Your Friend in Reykjavik.

I have personally done this walking tour and loved it. It’s surprising how many stops there and all of the adorable cats that can be found in their usual spots, if you know where to look.

There are even cat murals and, of course, a visit to the Cat Café. This café takes in cats that need a home and they roam freely around the cafe as people enjoy their drinks and food. The whole café is decorated in a cat theme, and it is incredibly cute. It is up to the cats if they want to interact with guests and a decent number of them do. During the visit to the cafe, some delicious treats like hot cocoa or coffee and cookies are included for tour participants. This walking tour is a delightful way to learn about Reykjavik from a different perspective.

If you are curious about why dogs were banned in Reykjavík, check out this podcast episode.

Why it is worth having coffee in Reykjavík, IcelandEach of these cafés contribute to the tapestry of Icelandic coffee culture, which is characterized by its preference for quality over quantity, the social experience of coffee drinking, and the innovative use of local and imported beans roasted to perfection within the country.

This dedication to quality and community has fostered a coffee scene that is both diverse and intimate, offering an array of experiences that reflect the spirit and warmth of Iceland itself.

Random Fact of the EpisodeIt is said that Árni Magnússon was the first man to drink coffee in Iceland. I guess he was quite the trend setter because the drink surged in popularity. There is an estimate that from 1819 to 1855 that imported coffee went from 5 tons per year to 213 tons per year!

Icelandic word of the episodekaffi – coffee

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing fascinating stories from Icelandic folklore on Fridays throughout 2024.

Why Finnur is a Feared SorcererA sorcerer named Finnur that lived a long time ago. So many people feared him and when he died no one wanted anything to do with the death, such as preparing the body or sewing up the shroud, which covers the dead body. Finally, one woman said she will sew the shroud. When she was doing it, some weird stuff was happening. It seems that even in death, Finnur had found ways to terrorize people. The antics that happened while she was trying to sew the shroud made her go mad.

Another Brave Woman Steps Up to Prep Finnur’s BodyAfter that, people were, of course, even more resistant to getting involved in prepping his body. However, another woman stepped forward and said she was up to the task. While she was sewing up the shroud it came to a point where she need to disconnect the needle from the thread, she witnessed something strange.

The corpse of Finnur said to her “You have yet to bite the needle free from the thread”. Instead of being scared, the woman boldly said, “I don’t plan on biting it. I plan on yanking it free.” That is exactly what she did and after that she took the needle she had used, broke it into two pieces and stuck it into the corpses’ feet. After doing that, the corpse of Finnur stopped playing antics nor did it bother anyone else.

I don’t know if putting needles into a corpses’ feet has some sort of significance, but I do think it is interesting that this specific action would shut him up.

Random Fact of the EpisodeI am pretty sure that in a previous episode, I have spoken about the Icelandic Sorcery and Witchcraft Museum in Hólmavík in the Westfjords of Iceland. What might surprise people is that most of the people persecuted for doing magic in Iceland were men. At the museum, they showcases the documented executions of people who did magic and most of them happened in the Westfjords.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeGaldramaður – sorcerer

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This is the last episode in my series about the months in Iceland and what to expect.

Visiting Iceland in December is a magical experience, often described as stepping into a winter wonderland. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you can expect, from weather conditions to the must-do activities, road conditions and more.

Weather and Average Temperature During December in IcelandDecember in Iceland is quite cold, with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). It’s not uncommon for the temperature to drop below freezing, especially at night and in the more northern parts of the country. The weather can be unpredictable, with possible snowfall, rain, and windstorms, so it’s essential to check the forecast regularly.

Daylight Hours in DecemberOne of the most distinctive features of Icelandic winters is the limited daylight. In December, the sun rises around 11:00 AM and sets by 4:00 PM, giving you about 5 hours of daylight. This unique phenomenon is due to Iceland’s high latitude.

What to Wear in December in IcelandLayering is key to staying warm and comfortable in Iceland’s winter weather. Start with thermal underwear, add fleece or wool layers, and top with a waterproof and windproof jacket.

Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect against the chill. Waterproof boots with good traction are essential for navigating icy paths.

Also, the ground is normally covered in snow and ice, so I highly recommend having your microspikes with you because those will come in handy. If the forecast is especially chilly, I often bring hand warmers with me because my hands get cold easily. Also, wool socks or some really good thermal socks come in clutch during this month too.

The link to my microspikes and where you can rent microspikes in Reykjavík.

Know exactly what to pack for Iceland by getting my free Ultimate Packing Checklist.

Road Conditions & DrivingWinter driving in Iceland can be challenging due to snow, ice, and reduced visibility. Roads can be slippery, and some might be closed due to harsh weather. It’s crucial to have a 4WD vehicle, check the road conditions at the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) website and Safetravel.si regularly, and be prepared for winter driving. Always have an emergency kit in your car.

The Best Local Company to Rent a Car in IcelandGo Car Rental IcelandIf you plan to explore Iceland on your own when you visit, I highly recommend using Go Car Rental Iceland. They are a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

Go CampersIf you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

Expert Trip Planning Tips for DecemberOne of the best tips I have for December in Iceland is to be prepared for potential delays or cancellations because of storms. To be fair, we normally have a lot more wind and snowstorms during January and February, but they certainly can happen in December too.

Having a flexible approach to your plans is key so that you can manage your expectations. As I have mentioned in previous winter episodes, you might have to slow down if the roads are very icy and that’s ok Lastly, please heed the warnings about severe winter storms and if it is advised to stay off the road. Visitors underestimate the weather here all the time and they end up having to be rescued by Iceland’s Search and Rescue team.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in DecemberDespite the cold and darkness, December is a fantastic time to visit Iceland because of its unique winter beauty, and the chance to experience Icelandic Christmas traditions. If you visit during the very beginning of December there are usually less tourists but that changes are the middle of the month rolls around.

Top Activities to Do in December Northern Lights: The long nights provide a perfect backdrop for viewing the aurora borealis, one of Iceland’s most sought-after experiences. * Ice Caving and Glacier Hiking: Explore stunning blue ice caves in Vatnajökull National Park or go glacier hiking on Solheimajokull. * Geothermal Pools: Relax in geothermal hot springs like the Blue Lagoon or the Sky Lagoon. The contrast of the cold air and the warm water is invigorating. * Snowmobiling and Dog Sledding: Thrill-seekers can enjoy snowmobiling on a glacier or dog sledding through winter landscapes. * Christmas Markets and Festivities*: Experience Icelandic Christmas traditions and markets, especially in Reykjavik.

December Events and Holidays Christmas (Jól): Icelanders celebrate Christmas with great enthusiasm, with celebrations starting on December 23rd and lasting until the 26th. Expect beautiful decorations, festive lights, and traditional events throughout the country. + Christmas Beers and spirits + Christmas Buffets + Christmas Markets * New Year’s Eve: Icelanders welcome the new year with spectacular fireworks displays, especially in Reykjavik. The sky at midnight is a sight to behold, with fireworks visible in every direction. + Shooting off fireworks + Partying downtown*

I have another episode that goes more in-depth into 7 wonderful ways to experience Christmas in Iceland and that is linked in the description of this episode.

Video Consultation with Me for Your TripOne of the resources is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link. After you fill out a survey and pick a time that is available for both of us, we do a one-hour video chat via Google Meet.

During this time, we chat about your interest, parts of the country you want to visit, how to get the most out of your time, helpful information to know about Iceland before coming, and any questions that you have. I always feel delighted when I hear at the end of the call that people feel even more excited about their upcoming trip because of the consultation.

With full access, you get over 250 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeIf you are in Iceland on December 23rd, it is when Icelanders eat Skata or fermented skate. It is a very smelly dish that can be smelled down the block. If you decide to try it, make sure to wear some clothes that are old that you can get rid of or that you don’t mind having a stench.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeDecember in Icelandic is spelled Desember and pronounced slightly different.

Gleðileg jól – Merry Christmas

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This is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing an Icelandic Folklore story every Friday in 2024.

Katla The WitchThe story today is about how Katla volcano got its name. I’ve seen the name for this folklore as “Katla the Hag”, but I’m not much a fan of that name.

Basically, there was a woman who was known as a witch, and she worked at a monastery here in Iceland. She was housekeeper for an Abbott. An Abbott is basically a person who oversees other monks. Katla was known to be a very angry person. She probably just really needed therapy I think but the fact is that she would often take out her anger on anybody.

Why Katla’s Pants Were MagicalPeople knew though that she had these magical pants. These magical pants which if someone were to put on, they could run so fast they would be as fast as the wind without losing breath or without getting tired. They were really cool pants but people knew she was never going to share them with anyone due to her anger, so most people steered clear of her.

Even the Abbott, who was her boss, did not like her much but I guess she was really good at her job so they kept her around. There was a guy named Barði who was a shepherd for the Abbott and it seems that Katla had authority over him or at least she was exerting some authority over him.

Since Barði’s job was to collect the sheep, and make sure that they’re in the shed for her to be able to milk, if one of them was missing she would go berserk. One day the Abbott and Katla were going away on a short trip and planned to be back the next day. Before leaving, Katla told Barði to have all the sheep in the shed for her when they get back or he will feel her wrath.

A Fatal MistakeAt one point Barði went to find the sheep but he was having a hard time finding all of them. This made him freak out a little because he knew Katla would be very angry if he didn’t get this done.

So, he had the brilliant idea of putting on Katla’s magical pants and ran around to get the sheep. It worked like a charm and he put the pants away before Katla and the Abbott returned.

When Katla returned, she knew immediately that he had worn her pants and her blood was boiling. In a fit of rage, she drowned him in a vat of whey and submerge the body in the bottom, which is disgusting because obviously people are using this whey.

As time went on, the level of the whey in the vat was getting lower which would mean that at some point people were going to see his body. Some people said they often heard Katla say that Barði will soon appear while standing next to the whey.

Why the Volcano is Named KatlaIt must’ve been that it got to point where she thought the body is going to surface any time now, so hightailed it out of there to avoid getting in trouble for this. So she put on her pants, and she headed towards Mýrdalsjökull glacier going as fast as possible.

She threw herself into the canyon and everyone assumed that she died in there because it was a volcano that she supposedly fell into. A short time after she threw herself in there was a huge volcanic eruption that caused a massive flood because there is a glacier above the volcano.

Due to this volcanic eruption, the volcano was named after Katla.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAccording to the Icelandic Meteorological Office, “The Katla volcanic system is the fourth most active system in Iceland and has erupted at least 21 times during the last 1100 years”

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeKatla – kettle

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This is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing an Icelandic Folklore story every Friday in 2024.

The upcoming story is based on a description of the Ox-Whale in the book “Meeting with Monsters – An Illustrated Guide to the Beasts of Iceland” by Jón Baldur Hlíðberg and Sigurður Ægisson. It is an awesome book and I highly recommend getting if you like to read about creatures that many claim to be real around Iceland. Jón is one of the owners of The Icelandic Sea Monster Museum in the Westfjords. If you are planning to travel in that part of Iceland, be sure to visit that museum.

Why The Icelandic Ox Whale is so TerrifyingIn the far reaches of Iceland, where the cold Atlantic whispers ancient secrets, there exists a creature as old as the sagas themselves, known among the folk as the Ox Whale, or ‘nauthveli’. Shrouded in the mists of time, its tales are woven into the very fabric of Icelandic lore, emerging from the depths in hushed tones only by the light of the hearth.

The first whispers of this maritime specter stirred not from ink upon parchment but from the lips of weathered seafarers, whose ancestors cast wary glances upon the churning waves. It was in the twilight of the 13th century that the earliest murmurs danced upon the winds, speaking of a leviathan, a ghostly echo of the cow-whale, its kin cloaked in mystery and shadow.

As the hands of time turned to the year of 1590, a chilling portrait emerged from the veiled past. The Ox Whale, a creature of unfathomable hunger and wrath, was no mere beast of the deep but a herald of doom. Its call, a terrifying bellow, resonated like the fury of a tempest, shaking the very bones of the earth, sending ripples of dread through the hearts of those who heard it.

This monstrous denizen of the abyss, driven by insatiable greed, prowled the oceans, its eyes alight with the hunger for prey, casting a shadow of fear over any who dared to venture into its domain.

What an Ox Whale Does to CowsIn time, tales of its dread visage grew darker still. By 1638, it was said to bear a likeness to the horse-whale, yet marked by its haunting cry, a sound so petrifying that it could curdle the blood of the bravest souls. By 1666, its enormity was unveiled, a behemoth among the toothed whales, its flesh anathema, its presence a bane to the vessels of man.

The dawn of the 18th century bore witness to a new horror; its bellow, an eldritch call, ensnared the minds of cattle, drawing them, spellbound, into the maw of the abyss. This sinister enchantment was proven at Hjortsey farm, a grim testament to the Ox Whale’s malevolent lure.

As the mid-century approached, the enigma deepened. Though its form eluded the gaze of man, it was believed to bear the head of a bull, a monstrous aberration that bellowed with such might that the earth itself seemed to tremble in fear. It was a phantom of fog and shadow, forbidding all who heard its call from braving the treacherous embrace of the sea.

The tale took a grim turn in 1786 on the shores of Grimsey, where the beast’s insatiable appetite was laid bare in a macabre dance of death with a doomed cow, a spectacle of cruelty that echoed the darkest fables.

The Physical Description of an Ox WhaleAs the 19th century dawned, a mariner’s account cast a new light upon this enigma of the deep, describing it as a chimera of bull and serpent, a creature of haunting beauty and terror, a paradox of nature’s design.

The lore of the Ox Whale, a mosaic of fear, wonder, and the unfathomable, permeates the essence of Iceland’s maritime heritage, a lingering shadow in the realm of legend and truth. And so it remains, a whispered enigma, a ghostly presence forever etched into the annals of Icelandic folklore, its legacy enduring in the silent depths, where the sea meets the sky.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAccording to the book, a male born in 1879 reported that between 1890 and 1896, people who had been on a trading trip to Eyrarbakki in the south coast of Iceland said that the bay there had been full of Ox whales. They knew because they could hear the bellowing of the creatures.

Due to the Ox Whale being there, the people living in the village were not allowed to let their cows go outside. If they did, the cows would get agitated and show signs of dashing toward the sea.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeNauthveli – Ox Whale

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This is the second response episode for my new segment “Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland”. Thank you to everyone who sent in questions and if you would like to submit a question, you can do it here.

“What do Icelanders generally like and dislike about Americans?” – GarrettIn general, I’d say that Icelanders don’t have a lot of dislikes when it comes specifically to Americans. It is more like dislikes of tourist in general. So, if you are respectful of the the people and language, Icelanders are very open to those who want to visit.

That being said, there are some things that come up that can be a little bothersome for Icelanders that wouldn’t be considered as strange in the US.

The first that comes to mind is that many Americans are not comfortable showering naked before entering the swimming pool. The changing rooms are separated by gender. In order to not use as much chlorine in the local swimming pools, showering without your bathing suit on is a requirement.

Americans are the largest group of tourists to Iceland and kind of shy when it comes to this rule, so it is normally assumed that a person is from the US if they try to skip showering naked before entering the pool.

Also, many Icelanders don’t agree with how the political system in the US is set up. I mentioned this in my last ask me anything answers, that only having two political parties to choose from for higher political offices is a strange and foreign thing to Icelanders.

Things Icelanders like a lot about the US during World War 2 and it was shut down in 1994. During those decades, the US’s influence on Icelandic culture exponentially grew. Icelander’s like American TV shows, food like pizza, burgers and fries, as well as celebrities, other media, and trends.

“On my recent trip to Iceland, I didn’t see any Dolly Parton imagery. Does the amazing Ms. Parton have any major influence on the country and does Iceland have a favorite Dolly song?” – RobDolly Parton is certainly beloved by many in Iceland, as she is around the world. It is not often that you will see posters of American or even foreign celebrities in Iceland unless it is promoting a concert or a product.

It might surprise some people to know that a decent number of Icelanders like country music. It makes sense when you think about how most of Iceland is like a rural place with lots of farmland in the US than a bustling city.

My guess for favorite Dolly song is Jolene but a close second might be 9 to 5. Since Dolly Parton has been iconic as a performer and song writer, and Iceland has a ton of musical artists, there is no doubt in my mind that she has influenced many people here.

“Ha ha the motherland! Just stumbled upon your podcast. Most of my family lives there still! My grandpa was Air Force back when Kelkajvik had an Air Foce base. Don’t they have the best hotdogs? Have you done well watching tour yet? My cousin Owns a company that does it, haven’t been back in 8 years, need to leave America before it Darkens my soul. Watch out for them elves the old father is watching” – NatHi Nat. This is such a fun share. I do believe that Iceland has some of the best hot dogs, if not the best. Granted, I have not eaten a hot dog made from an animal in almost 9 years but I remember it being tasty and many visitors attest to this as well. One awesome thing is that the vegan version is delicious too.

Yes, I have been whale watching in Húsavík in North Iceland with a company called North Sailing.

I hope you do come back to visit in the near future.

Yes, the elves are all around us. While I try to be mindful of them, the trolls are the ones I am most concerned about.

“Hi Jewells, I would like to know more about how you learned Icelandic. Your pronunciation sounds like native to me! 🙂 I started learning Icelandic as well half a year ago (after I visited Iceland for the first time) but I really struggle with the pronunciation. Do you have some tips? Thank you and keep up with the great podcast! Greetings from Prague!” – AlexandraMy journey to learn Icelandic has been fun, frustrating, and all types of emotions in between. I still tell people that I am working on being fluent because I don’t want to be held responsible for any terrible mistakes that I am bound to make.

Pronunciation of Icelandic like a native speaker is by far one of the tougher parts of the language. Of course, declining of words is harder but I think pronunciation is a close second. The one thing that helped me the most with pronouncing Icelandic words as close to native speaking as possible was to ask a native speaker to constantly correct me when I spoke.

When I was married to Gunnar, he was the person correcting me the most but I also asked my co-workers and friends because I was determined to get it right. Doing this can cause a lot of frustration because there are sounds in Icelandic that might be foreign to your mouth or mother tongue. I also think listening to a lot of Icelandic helps too but the key is to have a teacher or friend who speaks Icelandic well to help you.

It is also helpful to know that some people speak Icelandic with an accent. Meaning, they don’t sound like a native speaker when they talk the language but what they are saying is correct. That is totally fine and there is no reason to beat yourself up because you don’t sound Icelandic.

However, your question was mainly about pronunciation so I am addressing that. I am still a stickler with how I say things even to the point where I am over pronouncing words and I am learning to say things more colloquially. The more you learn Icelandic, the more you will hear that Icelanders don’t always pronounce every part of the word. That can cause some confusion at times but with practice and a trained ear, you will pick up on it.

If you don’t already, I would look into private lessons with an Icelandic teacher to work on your pronunciation, if you don’t already have one. iTalki is one place that has teachers. Also, there is Icelandic Made Eas(ier) by Siggi. Lastly, there is a great app called LingQ, where you can hear and read in Icelandic from different sources online, like videos, songs, and so on. It is awesome and the premium version is totally free for those learning Icelandic.

Viltu læra íslensku? and Íslenska fyrir alla are other resources for learning Icelandic and hearing it spoken.

“What are the best dishes to try when eating out in Iceland? When I want to splurge on meals out, I want them to be good.” – LeahPlease keep in mind that I am 100% plant-based and have been for many years but I am still aware of the meals that people typically try when they come here. If you are a meat and fish eater, then lamb, arctic char, salmon, and cod are very popular here.

Michelin star restaurants

Dill
Öx
Moss Restaurant

Other Restaurants

Kol
Kopar
The Fish Company – Fiskifélagið
The Grill Market – Grillmarkaðurinn
The Fish Market – fiskmarkaðurinn
Duck and Rose
Sumac
Mat Bar
Tides in the 5-star Hotel called the Reykjavík Edition

I normally like to order the 3 course or 5 course menu at places because when I normally do the math, it comes out to be less expensive than a la carte.

“Heading to Iceland at the end of May! Best places to get good coffee?” – Alison Reykjavík Röst*
Mokka Kaffi
Kaffitár
Reykjavík Roasters
Te og kaffi
“What quintessential Iceland souvenirs do you recommend bringing back home? An authentic sweater is out of my price range, but I would like to buy some gifts for others and myself.” – Christina C.* Icelandic Candies
Icelandic chocolates – Some of the most popular ones are from Nóí Sírius, Góa, and Freyja
Sea salt from Iceland that has different herbs and flavors
Alcohol – vodka, beer, gin, and other spirits made in Iceland. You can get small bottles at the airport duty free shop, which is less expense.
Hats
Mittens
Jewelry
Skin care products from the Blue Lagoon and Sóley
Books
Hot dogs and their toppings

Some places to get inexpensive souvenirs or gifts are grocery stores like Krónan, Bónus, Hagkaup, as well as the flea market called Kolaportið. Also, the National Museum of Iceland has a shop and you can possibly find some inexpensive items there too.

“Where should we drive around Reykjavik (or Vik) to hunt for the northern lights? Looking for somewhere to park within maybe a half hour with a good dark view” – Christina S.* Heiðmörk
Grotta lighthouse
Perlan
Lighthouse on Saebraut across from Hofdi house
Sun Voyager
Hafravatn
“Hi Jewells! We will be in southern, west and northern parts of iceland in early April. Is there any chance of seeing puffins this early? If so, where would be the best place? Thank you :)” – Sasha C.Typically, puffins come to Iceland in May and stay until mid August. Unfortunately, when you come Puffins will not be here yet.

Tjörnes Peninsula and grímsey island are places in north Iceland where you can see puffins. You can also see Puffins in Dyrhólaey, and the Westman Islands.

“Hi, what would be one or two extra special food related experiences for a passionate foodie coming to Iceland in the spring?” – Alison G.A food walking tour in Reykjavik. Here is a popular one where you can save 10% on the tour. The Food Lovers Tour by Your Friend in Reykjavík

Use the code ALLTHINGSICELAND in all caps to save 10%

The restaurants that I mentioned in an earlier question will definitely be great experiences.

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This modern-day folklore mixes the supernatural with Iceland’s gorgeous landscape. It all starts with a man named Dillon, a Brit that had traveled to Iceland many times. One day he claims to have been contacted by aliens who told him to gather people in Iceland on November 5th, 1993 because they were going to be on Snæfellsjökull glacier that day. According to Dillon, his information was backed up by a woman who had been abducted and saw visions of the event happening on that day.

The plot thickens as a conference was held before the event that attracted over 500 people who were interested in UFOs and possibly seeing aliens. This group wasn’t your average gathering. According to those who attended, there were people from the US Military, CIA, FBI, and British police.

Thousands Showed Up to Possibly See AliensWhen November 5th arrived in 1993, thousands of people showed up. Even a camera crew from CNN came out. As people waited, they sang songs and kept in good spirits. As time passed, it was becoming evident that no aliens had been seen.

Or at least, they decided not to make themselves seen. Well, that is what some people think happens. There have been accountants of individuals saying that maybe the large crowd scared off the aliens or that they did come but decided to remain hidden. Either way, no one saw them that day.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAccording to a Reykjavík Grapevine article published in 2022,

“There have been at least 170 documented incidents of UFO sightings or contacts in Iceland and of those stories, The UFO Association in Iceland (Sálarrannsóknarfélag Íslands) figure that 30 of those can be said to be “credible”. Not only that, the US Army has also listed 19 cases of UFOs in Iceland.”

Here is a link to the article, if you would like to check it out.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeGeimvera – alien

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Today’s episode focuses on the historic site of Skriðuklaustur, which offers a captivating glimpse into Iceland’s rich Icelandic culture, history, and literature. This enchanting destination, nestled amidst the rugged beauty of the Icelandic landscape, serves as a bridge between the past and the present, inviting visitors to explore the layers of stories etched within this museum.

The Origins of Skriðuklaustur MonasterySkriðuklaustur, a landmark of rural eastern Iceland, and has origins tracing back to a 16th-century monastery. Revealed through an extensive archaeological excavation from 2002 to 2012, the ruins of this Augustinian cloister tell a tale of resilience, spirituality, and compassion.

Established around 1493, this monastery served as a refuge for the sick and the poor. Its existence, cut short by the Reformation in the mid-16th century, marks a significant chapter in Iceland’s religious and social history.

The Link Between Skriðuklaustur Monastery & Gunnar GunnarssonThe monastery’s story is interwoven with the life of Gunnar Gunnarsson, one of Iceland’s most renowned literary figures. Gunnarsson, born in 1889, emerged as a prolific writer whose works resonated with readers across the globe.

His decision to write in Danish brought his stories to an international audience, earning him acclaim and raising questions about his cultural identity. Gunnarsson’s legacy is complex, marked by his literary success and the controversies surrounding his public appearances in Nazi Germany.

In 1939, Gunnarsson returned to Iceland, making Skriðuklaustur his home. The mansion he built, a testament to his ambition and unique architectural vision, now stands as a cultural beacon. Designed by the German architect Fritz Höger, the mansion reflects a blend of Icelandic and European influences.

Today, it houses exhibitions on Gunnarsson’s work, offering visitors a window into the life of a man whose storytelling left an indelible mark on Icelandic literature.

I share some insight into Gunnar Gunnarsson’s and Halldór Laxness’ friendship and eventual falling out in a previous podcast episode.

More Than Just a Historic SiteSkriðuklaustur is more than a historic site; it is a living museum that continues to inspire and educate. The monastery ruins, accessible to visitors year-round, offer a tangible connection to Iceland’s monastic heritage. The site’s archaeological significance is underscored by the extensive research conducted over a ten-year period, which shed light on the daily lives of the monks, their literary endeavors, and the monastery’s role as a hospital.

The findings from the cloister cemetery are particularly fascinating because they reveal the hardships faced by those who sought refuge within the monastery’s walls. The study of nearly 300 individuals buried on the site provides invaluable insights into the health and social conditions of 16th-century Iceland. The presence of graves belonging to patients, the disabled, and even the unbaptized stillborn highlights the monastery’s inclusive approach to care and compassion.

Skriðuklaustur’s archaeological excavation also unearthed over 13,000 artifacts, offering a glimpse into the material culture of the time. Among the treasures discovered was a fragmented statue of Saint Barbara, symbolizing the spiritual life that once flourished within the monastery’s walls.

The application of photogrammetry technology has allowed these artifacts to be explored in detail, further enriching our understanding of this historic site.

An East Iceland GemAs Skriðuklaustur opens its doors for the 2024 season, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the site’s history and beauty. The upcoming art exhibition “Polyphony” by Björg Eiríksdóttir, alongside a new exhibit by Gunnar Gunnarsson’s son, promises to be a highlight, showcasing the ongoing dialogue between past and present.

Skriðuklaustur stands as a testament to Iceland’s rich cultural heritage, embodying the spirit of resilience, creativity, and compassion that defines this remarkable country. Whether drawn by the allure of ancient ruins, the legacy of a literary giant, or the promise of cultural exploration, visitors to Skriðuklaustur will find themselves on a journey through time, where history’s whispers echo in the wind, and the landscape itself tells a story of endurance and inspiration.

Explore More of East Iceland with My Iceland MapI’ve curated My Iceland Map so that it has awesome things for you to check out in East Iceland and around the country.

This map was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeSkriðuklaustur has a lot of unique history and fascinating things to see in the museum. One of my favorite things was the virtual reality tour of the monastery that was found. You put on a VR headset and can tour around the recreated monastery as if you were there in the 1400s.

There is also a café downstairs that has a lunch buffet during summer.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeSkriðuklaustur when broken down is two words. The first is skriða, which means landslide. The second is klaustur, which mean cloister or monastery.

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing fascinating stories from Icelandic folklore on Fridays throughout 2024.

This week’s tale is about a talented human midwife who ends up with a special ability after helping some elves. Please note that there is a violent act shared in this story and you may not deem it appropriate for young kids.

A Talented Icelandic Midwife Is Beckoned By ElvesOne day, an Icelandic human midwife was approached by elves for help with a high-ranking elf that was in labor but was having complications. For those who are not aware about Icelandic elves, we can’t see them unless they allow it. It’s said that Icelandic elves live in a parallel world to us, and they can jump in between worlds. Basically, it’s a privilege if any human gets to see and/or encounter one.

The midwife was rushed to help the elf in labor, and she did such a great job that they elves bestowed a gift upon her. They rubbed some ointment into one of her eyes and that gave her the ability to see the elf world. This meant she could see any elf wherever she went. Along with the gift was a warning to never reveal to anyone that she has this gift. Not surprisingly, she was giddy and excited about this new ability she was given. As time passed by, she did get used to having this special sight and did not tell anyone.

An Unlucky Twist of Fate Changes the Midwife’s LifeHowever, one fateful day she made a mistake. She saw an elf in a shop and let the elf know she could see them. The elf she spoke to was a woman and was quite shocked that a human could see her. After getting over the shock, the elf woman asked the midwife “With which eye can you see me?”

After the midwife answered the question, the elf woman proceeded to poke the midwife in the eye with the special ointment until she was blind. Yea, quite intense. Another version of this story that I’ve heard is that the elf woman spits in the midwife’s eye instead of poking it, which resulted in her losing her special ability.

Books About Icelandic Folklore1. The Guardians of Iceland and other Icelandic Folk Tales 2. Icelandic Folk Legends: Tales of Apparitions, Outlaws, and Things Unseen 3. The Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty Stories of Elves from Icelandic Folklore 4. Icelandic Folk Tales

Random Fact of the EpisodeAccording to the Icelandic Elf School in Reykjavík, there are 50 different types of elves. Yes, you heard that right, there is an elf school.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÁlfheimar – elf world

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Visiting Iceland in November offers a unique and enchanting experience, blending the majestic winter landscapes with the possibility of witnessing the magical Northern Lights.

Previous Episodes About Months in Iceland* January in Iceland * February in Iceland * March in Iceland * April in Iceland * May in Iceland * June in Iceland * July in Iceland * August in Iceland * September in Iceland * October in Iceland

Icelandic Weather and Average Temperature in NovemberNovember in Iceland marks the transition deeper into the winter season. You can expect cold weather with average temperatures ranging from -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). It’s a time when the winter chill starts to set in, and snowfall becomes more common, especially in the northern and inland areas.

Icelandic Daylight Hours in NovemberDaylight becomes scarce in November, with the length of the day dramatically decreasing as the month progresses. Early in the month, you might experience around 8 hours of daylight. By the end of November, this can reduce to just around 5 hours. The short days and long nights create ideal conditions for viewing the Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, one of Iceland’s most famous natural phenomena.

What to Wear During November in IcelandGiven the cold temperatures and the possibility of wet and snowy conditions, it’s essential to pack warm and waterproof clothing. Layering is key, so bring thermal undergarments, woolen sweaters, a waterproof and windproof outer layer, gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf. Sturdy, waterproof boots with good grip are also a must for exploring Iceland’s rugged terrain.

My Ultimate Packing Checklist is linked in the show notes and will provide you with everything you need to bring. I recommend following the winter list, especially toward the end of the month because it is noticeably colder and darker.

Road Conditions & DrivingDriving in Iceland in November can be challenging due to icy and snowy road conditions, especially on less traveled and rural roads. It’s important to check the weather and road conditions frequently (via the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website) and consider renting a 4×4 vehicle for better traction. Always drive cautiously and be prepared for sudden changes in weather. Also, check websites for the weather before you head, like safetravel.is and vedur.is.

Expert Trip Planning Tip for NovemberNovember can be a nice winter season month for people to visit who want to avoid the crowds. Driving to different parts of the country is not as difficult as in late December, January, and February, but there will be snow and ice in some areas.

Best Icelandic Rental Car Company for Driving in NovemberIf you plan to explore Iceland on your own when you visit, I highly recommend using Go Car Rental Iceland. They are a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

Camper Van Rental in Iceland in NovemberIf you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in NovemberNovember is an excellent time to visit Iceland if you’re looking to experience its winter wonderland charm without the peak tourist crowds. The possibility of seeing the Northern Lights is a significant draw, as the long nights provide ample opportunity for this spectacular natural display. Additionally, November offers the chance to experience Iceland’s dramatic landscapes with a beautiful winter backdrop, including snow-capped mountains, frozen waterfalls, and icy lagoons.

Top Activities to Do in November Northern Lights Hunting: The extended hours of darkness provide a great opportunity to witness the Aurora Borealis. Joining a guided tour can increase your chances of seeing this natural phenomenon, as experts know the best times and locations. * Ice Cave Tours: November is an excellent time for ice cave exploration, as the colder temperatures make the ice caves more stable and accessible. * Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools: Relaxing in one of Iceland’s many geothermal pools or hot springs, like the Blue Lagoon, is particularly enjoyable when it’s cold outside. * Glacier Hiking and Snowmobiling*: The snow-covered landscapes provide perfect conditions for glacier hikes and snowmobiling adventures.

November Events and Holidays in IcelandNovember hosts a couple of cultural events and holidays:

Iceland Airwaves: An annual music festival that takes place in Reykjavik, featuring a mix of established and up-and-coming Icelandic and international artists. I was able to hear Ásgeir perform one year and that was magical. Feel free to check out my Spotify playlist of Icelandic artists here.
Christmas Markets: Towards the end of November, Christmas markets start to appear, offering handicrafts, local foods, and festive decorations, marking the beginning of the holiday season in Iceland.

Iceland Trip Planning ResourcesBefore hopping into the random fact of the episode, I want to share some Iceland trip planning resources. I’ve received many amazing emails from listeners of the podcast and followers on social media asking me for my advice on what to do in Iceland. Due to the high demand for this information, I created some resources. All of the ones I talk about can be found in the navigation panel of this website, which is above. There is a tab at the top called “Trip Planning Help”. Click on that and you will find links to everything I am about to share.

Book a Private Video Consultation with Me to Plan Your TripOne of the resources is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link. After you fill out a survey and pick a time that is available for both of us, we do a one-hour video chat via Google Meet.

With full access, you get over 260 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAnnually on November 16th, Icelander’s celebrate Icelandic Language Day. In Icelandic it is “Dagur íslenskrar tungu” and the translation of that is “day of the Icelandic tongue”.

This day is held to celebrate and promote the Icelandic language.

Icelandic Word of EpisodeNóvember – November

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A quick but fascinating Icelandic folklore tale about Naustahvilft. According to the legend, a troll was hurrying home to avoid being turned into stone by the sun that was going to rise soon. She was traveling quickly enough that she was ahead of schedule and was able to stop to rest.

The area that she stopped is Ísafjörður, the fjord where the largest town in the Westfjords is located. The troll’s feet were aching so she sat down on the mountain to rest. The shear weight of her made an indent in the mountain with her rear as soon as she sat down.

Please note that trolls are gigantic figures in Icelandic folklore, so it is possible for them to have this impact on a mountain. When the troll got up to continue her journey, the imprint of her rear was left. That indent was then nicknamed “Troll’s Seat”.

The view from NaustahvilftRandom Fact of the EpisodeThere is a short but steep trail here that I loved hiking. I think it took me around 30 minutes to reach the top but I was huffing and puffing at the end because the steepness does get intense. However, the views on a nice day are incredible. For a little bit of effort, you are rewarded with views of the fjord. If you spend some time up there, you might even see some planes taking off or landing.

Like other hikes in Iceland, there is normally a guest book you can sign at the top that is being kept safe from the harsh weather in a metal box. There is a space for cars to park for this trail but it can be hard to miss so drive a little slower when you getting close to the location, so you easily make the turn into the small lot.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÍsafjörður – ice fjord

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This is the first response episode for my new segment “Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland”. Thank you to everyone who sent in questions and if you would like to submit a question, you can do it here.

Questions sent in from the listeners of the All Things Iceland Podcast1. Can you please discuss some of the history of Ravens in Iceland. I was delighted to hear about some mischievous Ravens by Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, who were working in tandem to collect and confiscate tourist’s goods. Do we know when they arrived in Iceland and how has their presence impacted Icelandic culture?There are several stories relating to Iceland that involve ravens. The first that pops into my mind has to do with Óðinn, the Norse God, that had two Ravens. They were named Huginn (thought) and Muninn (memory or mind). They flew around the world (Midgard) and brough back information to Óðinn. Because Norse people settled in Iceland, the belief and worship of Óðinn came with them.

Another story that comes to mind is of Hrafna-Flóki. He was a Norse Viking that is said to have given Iceland its name. He didn’t stay in Iceland because he encountered a very harsh winter where he almost didn’t survive. However, before he left he went on top of a mountain in the fjord and saw that the fjord was packed with ice. Due to that, he called this place the land of ice or “Iceland”.

Hello. We are taking a cruise out of Reykjavik with NCL and looking to arrive a few days early to explore. We will be renting a car with Go Car Rental and wanted to know the best way to get from their Reykjavik office to the cruise port in September upon our rental return? The cruise port is Skarfabakki. Thank you for your input!The easiest way to get from Go Car Rental Iceland‘s Skógarhlíð location in Reykjavík to Skarfabakki is to take a taxi. It is about 9 minutes by car, so it will not be very expensive. The name of a taxi company to use is Hreyfill.
If there was only one beautiful place in Iceland you could visit which one would it be?This is such a tough question. I know that only one place was requested but I will provide two. One is more remote and that is Eldgjá in the Icelandic highlands. The other is the Westman Islands, which is much easier to access. To learn about all of the places I enjoy around the country, including hidden gems, check out My Iceland Map.
Thank you for your informative entertaining podcast. Do you need to drive in order to fully enjoy Iceland? I’m a passenger princess and don’t know how I would get around if I don’t come with someone who drives.You can definitely be a passenger princess and still see Iceland. I suggest taking tours that are for small groups. It is more intimate than the big buses and you see as much of the country as you want. On this website you can find many day tour and multi-day tour options.
How do people in Iceland view the political climate in the US???The answer to this can be long because it involves so many layers. In short, the Icelanders I have spoken to have often been confused about what is happening politically in the US. Not that they don’t understand how the system operates but wondering why it is allowed to be the way it is. An example is that politics in the US is dominated by two parties. There is also a lot of extremism and it seems that politicians often want to pass laws or vote for laws that undermine the safety and rights of their constituents.
Can you please slow down and maybe even spell out that names of places you mention in your podcast? It’s a wonderful podcast but it is so difficult to understand Icelandic names without seeing them in print (and even then it’s difficult)!I totally understand that it can be hard to listen to the podcast and not understand how to spell the words I am saying in Icelandic. One of the reasons I write a lot of notes here on my website is so that you can reference it to see what the words look like that I talk about in the episode.
What wildlife can I expect to see on a trip to Iceland, and where can I find them?This list of where to find animals in Iceland is specifically for during the summer months (May – September in most cases).
Icelandic sheep – roaming around in the countryside everywhere
Icelandic horses – grazing in fields or on a horseback riding trip
Icelandic cows – grazing in fields
Goats – grazing in fields (not many of them)
Whales – on a tour out at sea
Reindeer in the east (roaming free)
Puffins – Látrabjarg, Grímsey, Dyrhólaey, Westman Islands, Borgarfjörður Eystri in East Iceland, off the shore in a boat in Reykjavík.
Seals (They live all around Iceland, but the best places to spot them are the Westfjords, the Vatnsnes Peninsular, the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, and the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, Hvammstangi
Mink – probably will not see them
Rodent – in the countryside
Orcas – out at sea
Porpoise – out at sea
Icelandic sheep dog – at a farm working hard
Arctic fox – at the Arctic Fox center in the Westfjords, Hornstrandir in the Westfjords, and sometimes roaming around
Puffins – Borgarfjörður Eystri in East Iceland, Látrabjarg in the Westfjords, off the shore in a boat in Reykjavík, Dyrhólaey,
What are some “hidden gem” spots on the South Coast of Iceland?It is getting tougher to have hidden gems on the south coast but here are three:
Nauthúsagil
Gluggafoss
The path beyond the steps at Skógafoss waterfall. When you go that path in the summer you can see multiple waterfalls and hardly any people. This is a highland path but you don’t need to take it all the way into the highlands to enjoy.
How difficult is finding food in Iceland for people with dietary restrictions? (ex. Gluten or Dairy-Free)Thankfully, it is not difficult. All the food markets have food like this, such as Krónan, Bónus, Hagkaup, and Nettó. Most restaurants have at least one option, if not multiple options on their menus.
I will be in Akureyri with my family in June on Independence Day. What can we expect to see for festivities?The National Day of Iceland which is on June 17th is very important celebration for the people of Akureyri and everyone around the country. The town is decorated with flags and a full celebratory program. Here is a link to the 2023 program to give you an idea of what to expect.

There will be a parade, concerts, games, performances, and lots of food. I hope you and your family have a lovely time.

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For this episode of Folklore Friday we’re diving into the chilling tales and explosive history of Iceland’s very own Mount Hekla, often dubbed as the “Gateway to Hell”!

Hekla Volcano’s Eruption Patterns & Destructive PastOur story begins in the year 1104, when Hekla made its grand entrance into the annals of volcanic history with a bang!

Since the 1970s, this fiery beauty has been quite punctual, gracing us with a spectacle roughly every decade. However, she’s been holding back since her last performance in February 2000, leaving us all on the edge of our seats, waiting for her next big show.

But why the ominous nickname, you ask? Well, Hekla’s notoriety isn’t just smoke and mirrors. Picture this: the year 1300, a massive eruption tears through the mountain, the colossal roar echoing to the far reaches of the north. The skies darken with ash, casting a shadow so dense, the brave souls who once sailed for their daily catch dare not venture into the blackened seas.

The aftermath? A trail of destruction, earthquakes that shook the land, farms crumbling to dust, and a devastating famine claiming around 500 lives. This wasn’t a one-off event; Hekla’s wrath has been felt through the ages, leaving behind tales of despair and devastation.

Why Hekla Was Dubbed “The Gateway to Hell”During the dark and mystic times of the Middle Ages, the European clergy painted Hekla as the very doorstep to the netherworld. Perhaps their imagination wasn’t too far off, even if it was a tad dramatic! Rumors swirled of Satan’s abode lying within its fiery depths, witches convening in its shadow to pay homage to their infernal master, and the damned being whisked away by avian carriers to the volcano’s gaping maws.

Such were the tales that shrouded Hekla in an impenetrable veil of superstition and dread. For centuries, its slopes remained untouched by human footsteps, its peak a forbidden realm, believed to house the entrance to hell itself. The whispers of the clergy echoed across Europe, casting Icelandic volcanoes, Hekla in particular, as undeniable proof of the devil’s dwelling beneath our very feet.

Is Hekla a Safe Place Now?It wasn’t until the bold year of 1750 that curiosity (or perhaps foolhardiness) led the first climbers to defy the myths and scale Hekla’s heights. Contrary to the fearsome legends, they found no gateway to the underworld but instead unveiled the rugged beauty of this majestic volcano.

Today, Hekla stands not as a feared specter but as a beacon for hikers, its slopes a testament to the courage that overcomes fear. Please note that it is still an active volcano and an eruption can still happen. If you plan to visit please check to see if there is any increased activity in the area, like earthquakes.

The tale of Hekla, a volcano shrouded in myth yet bursting with natural wonder. Whether you’re drawn by its dark folklore or the call of adventure, Hekla remains a captivating chapter in Iceland’s rich tapestry of legends and landscapes. Who knows, maybe your next trek will be along the legendary slopes of the so-called “Gateway to Hell” – just don’t expect to bump into any witches or find a stairway to the underworld!

Random Fact of the EpisodeEggert Ólafsson and Bjarni Pálsson are the names of the two people that summited the mountain in 1750. After dispelling the taboo that climbing Hekla meant going to hell, meeting the devil or some witches, the mountain has become a popular place for hikers and climbers.

The Icelandic Word of the EpisodeThe name Hekla can mean a comb for linen or a cloak, such as a cloak of mist. It’s believed that Hekla mountain might have looked like a comb for linen back in the day but after many eruptions, its shape has changed. The latter meaning of a cloak of mist is fitting because there is often mist hovering around the volcano’s summit.

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As of January 15th, 2024, Keflavík International Airport (KEF) has stated that they are gearing up to host a whopping 8.5 million passengers this year, making it one of their busiest years ever. Yep, you heard it right, this little volcanic island is becoming more of a hotspot than ever before!

I know 8.5 million sounds like a lot, because it is, but I will put that into context during this episode because there much more to the story.

Why 2024 Can Be a Record-Breaking Year in Iceland?So, what’s the scoop? Well, compared to last year, we’re looking at a 9.6% jump in visitors. This is both during the bustling summer months and the magical, aurora-filled winters, which usually have less people.

This year, a record-breaking 2.38 million international visitors are expected to actually visit Iceland, edging past the previous record set back in 2018. The growth isn’t just in the summer; winter tourism is getting a big boost too, with a 13.4% increase in visitors braving the cold for some icy adventures.

But it’s not just about sightseeing. With more people passing through, about 30% are just here for a quick layover. Still, every visit counts, and it’s a great chance for folks to get a taste of Iceland, even if it’s just a glimpse from the airport.

When the airport reports numbers like 8.5 million passengers, they are counting departures, arrivals, and transfers. For 2024, the number of departures is estimated to be about 2.98 mil, arrivals are about 2.99 mil, and transfers are about 2.5 mil. After rounding up, you have 8.5 million passengers.

Keflavík International Airport is Expanding to Meet the DemandGuðmundur Daði Rúnarsson, the guy steering the ship at KEF, is all in on this uptick, especially the winter warriors coming to enjoy Iceland in its frosty glory. It’s great for business and even better for showing off our year-round appeal.

And to make sure everyone’s visit is smooth and enjoyable, KEF’s been on a bit of a building spree. Last year saw new spaces for check-ins and luggage, plus a shiny new taxiway to keep things moving smoothly. And there’s more on the horizon, with a new wing set to open later this year, packing in more gates and even more spots for shopping and dining.

Now, you might wonder how KEF figures all this out. It’s all about keeping a keen eye on travel trends, checking out airline schedules, and crunching numbers to predict how many folks will be coming through.

Rules Changing For Visitors to Iceland that ae From Outside the Schengen area And with all these visitors, there’s going to be a buzz around the new ETIAS system kicking off in May 2025. The ETIAS is The European Travel Information and Authorisation System.

It’s a new travel requirement for a lot of international visitors, so with Iceland’s popularity soaring, the ETIAS applications are expected to go through the roof, especially with those extra winter visitors.

From the ETIAS website:

“It was announced by the European Commission in November 2016 and was implemented into legislation in September 2018. The intention of forming the system was to improve the security of EU member states within the Schengen region by capturing data on travellers that currently visit the area without a visa.
The ETIAS will pre-screen travellers from “third-countries”, who are citizens from countries not needing a Schengen Visa. The screening would pertain to terrorism or migration related risks. The objective is to identify individuals who pose security threats before they are able to travel to the Schengen area.
ETIAS is not a visa, it is a visa waiver, similar to the U.S. ESTA and Canadian eTA. Travelers currently visiting European Member countries visa-free, will require an ETIAS in 2025 onwards. Passport holders of the EU single market are exempt from ETIAS.”

What Visitors to Iceland Need to KnowThe increase in visitors, especially during the summer, means that booking your accommodations, and vehicle rental as soon as possible will ensure that you have the places you want to stay and car you want to drive handled. The demand for those are very high. I highly recommend booking at least 5 months before you arrive in summer but 6-8 is better.

Best Local Car Rental Company in IcelandIf you plan to explore Iceland on your own when you visit, I highly recommend using Go Car Rental Iceland. They are a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

Go Campers

If you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

How an Increase in Visitors is Potentially Impacting Iceland’s PopulationThis surge in tourism isn’t just great for postcard sales; it’s making Iceland an even more appealing spot for folks thinking about a longer stay. With its stunning scenery and top-notch quality of life, who wouldn’t want to stick around? Plus, with new policies making it easier for students and remote workers to set up shop here, Iceland’s not just a vacation spot – it’s becoming a place to call home.

As KEF gears up for this tourist boom, it’s clear that Iceland’s allure is only getting stronger. With the airport expanding and improving, it’s ready to welcome people from around the world – and maybe convince a few to stay a little longer. Here’s to a bustling, vibrant Iceland, ready to enchant even more visitors in 2024!

Random Fact of the EpisodeDecember 2024 is the month with the largest % increase that is forecasted for tourists at 21.4% and October has the least amount of % increase forecasted, which is -.9%.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeSpá – forecast

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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At the famous, beautiful, and dangerous Reynisfjara black sand beach there are three sea stacks clearly visible out in the ocean. They look as though they have popped up out of nowhere but there is a story behind their existence.

Legend has it that two trolls were trying to pull a ship to shore during the middle of the night. However, they lost track of time and since this was during the warmer seasons when we have shorter nights, the sun came up sooner than they thought.

Any troll caught in the sunlight turns to stone and that is exactly what happened to them. It’s said that the three rock pillars are the two trolls and the ship they were dragging. Not sure why the ship would also turn to stone but that is the story.

Random Fact of the DayThe beach’s signature black sand is a result of lava flow reaching the sea and cooling quickly. The molten hot lava being rapidly cooled by the cold sea makes the solid lava crack into little pieces. Those pieces are then eroded over time and become a rough sand.

Icelandic Word of the DayReynisfjara – Beach of Reynir. One story I have read says that Reynir was a Viking from Norway that was one of the first to settle in this area. Another says that it was named by Björn from Valdresi in Norway. Either way, the beach is named after a Reynir.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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Visiting Iceland in October offers a unique and captivating experience, characterized by its transitional weather, diminished crowds, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights.

Weather and Average Temperature Temperature Range: October in Iceland sees average temperatures ranging from 2°C to 7°C (36°F to 45°F). The weather is cool and often wet, with frequent rain showers. * Weather Variability*: Expect variable weather conditions. Days can be crisp and clear or windy and rainy.

Daylight Hours in October in Iceland Decreasing Daylight*: October marks a significant shift in daylight hours in Iceland. The month starts with about 11.5 hours of daylight and ends with around 8 hours, signaling the approach of the darker winter months.

What to Wear in Iceland During October Layered Clothing: Essential for adapting to Iceland’s unpredictable weather. Include waterproof and windproof jackets, warm sweaters, thermal underlayers, and sturdy, waterproof footwear. * Accessories*: Don’t forget hats, gloves, and scarves for extra warmth, especially when exploring outdoors.

Road Conditions & Driving in October Road Conditions: Generally stable, but be prepared for occasional icy patches or snow, especially in northern regions. * Driving Tips*: Stay updated with the weather forecast and road conditions. Daylight hours are decreasing, so plan your travels accordingly. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are recommended for more rugged terrains.

Expert Trip Planning Tip for Iceland in OctoberDue to decent day light hours, good road conditions, and relatively warm weather, October can be a nice shoulder season month for people to visit who want to avoid the crowds. Driving to different parts of the country is still quite easy, meaning hardly any snow or ice, especially during the beginning and middle of the month. So, I recommend renting a car or a camper van.

The Best Company to Rent a Car or Camper Van in IcelandGo Car Rental Iceland If you plan to explore Iceland on your own when you visit, I highly recommend using Go Car Rental Iceland. They are a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

Go Campers – Camper Van RentalIf you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in October Less Crowded: With the high season tapering off, you’ll find fewer tourists, making it easier to enjoy Iceland’s natural beauty more peacefully. * Aurora Borealis: The darkening skies increase the chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, a truly magical experience. * Autumn Colors*: The landscape turns into a beautiful palette of autumn colors, enhancing the scenic beauty.

Top Activities to Do in October Northern Lights Hunting: With longer nights, October is a great time to chase the Aurora Borealis. * Hot Springs and Geothermal Pools: The cooler weather makes soaking in Iceland’s famous hot springs even more enjoyable. * Hiking and Outdoor Adventures*: Enjoy the stunning autumn scenery with activities like hiking, horseback riding, and glacier tours.

October Events and Holidays in Iceland Reykjavík International Film Festival: A popular event showcasing a wide range of domestic and international films. September to October – https://riff.is/en/ * Imagine Peace Tower Lighting: Commemorates John Lennon’s birthday on October 9th and is lit until December 9th, his death anniversary. https://www.imaginepeacetower.com/ * Halloween*: Although not traditionally celebrated, it has gained popularity, with various events and parties, especially in Reykjavík.

Due to the high demand for this information, I created some resources. All of the ones I will talk about are available through a link in the description of this episode on my website allthingsiceland.com. Also, they can be found on the homepage of my website. There is a tab at the top called “Trip Planning Help”. Click on that and you will find links to everything I am about to share.

Video Consultation with Me for Your Trip One of the resources is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link. After you fill out a survey and pick a time that is available for both of us, we do a one-hour video chat via Google Meet.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeOctober is when the season for the northern lights really kicks off.

Icelandic Word of EpisodeÓktober – October

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega

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This particular episode is about Hallgerður Hallgrímsdóttir, who did an interesting interview with VICE back in 2016 about her intimate encounters. An important warning though is that she goes into some graphic details about her and an elf being intimate, as well as an anonymous account that she shares from someone else. It’s definitely out there.

What Might Happen if You Meet An Icelandic ElfI am summarizing what she said in the most PG way that I can. Hallgerður claims that she was out walking in the Icelandic wilderness by herself when an elf approached her. For those not familiar with Icelandic elves, they are hidden people that look like humans but are said to be taller and way better looking. After meeting the elf, they go off and have an intimate time and yes, I am using intimate as a euphemism. She recalls it as being amazing and way better than anything she has ever done with a regular person.

To make this even more interesting, she illustrated a book using stick figure drawings to show some of the intimate positions that are uniquely elvish. Hearing people’s encounters with elves regardless of them being intimate or not, are fascinating to me. I say that because there are people in Iceland who are self-proclaimed elf mediums and there is even a elf school here. Icelandic elves

Random Fact of the EpisodeDue to a poll taken in 1998, the thought for decades was that that the majority of Icelanders believed in elves. However, another poll was done in 2022 by Prósent that says only 31% of Icelanders believe in elves, 11% were not sure, 1% didn´t want to answer and 57% said no. To be fair, this was based on around 1,000 responders who are 18 years or older.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeHuldufólk – hidden people

Check out other episodes of Folklore Friday here.

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In the early hours of February 8th, a volcanic eruption north of Grindavik, not far from the famed Blue Lagoon, marked the third eruption since December, igniting concerns among locals and authorities.

With the eruption’s intensity waning by the evening, experts from the Icelandic Met Office suggest this latest upheaval might be fizzling out. Yet, the pattern of increasing volcanic activity has them predicting possible monthly eruptions in the near future.

The Reykjanes Peninsula compared to the rest of IcelandLoss of Hot Water & The Precaution Needed with Gas HeatersIn the wake of the eruption, the Civil Defense has issued urgent safety guidelines for residents using gas heating due to the lose of hot water because lava has flowed over a major hot water pipe coming from the Svartstengi power plant.

They are emphasizing the importance of proper ventilation, the installation of gas detectors, and adherence to manufacturer instructions to prevent hazardous incidents. These precautions come amid a spike in gas cylinder sales in Reykjanesbær, driven by disruptions to the local hot water supply.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLd7CzXBScA&list=RDCMUCacXXvaNHJQhMYU7f77OrBA&start_radio=1

The lava flow’s impact extended to critical infrastructure, with the Svartsengi power line’s electricity being swiftly restored thanks to effective defense measures, despite the damage to protective measures on pylons. However, the hot water crisis prompted the National Police Commissioner to declare an emergency, urging the community to conserve electricity and water as repairs to the damaged hot water pipeline are underway.

Despite the volcanic disturbance, international flights remain unaffected, though the Blue Lagoon has temporarily closed its doors to visitors. As the community grapples with the immediate aftermath and the potential for future eruptions, the emphasis on preparedness and safety has never been more paramount.

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One of Iceland’s most iconic and breathtaking landmarks is Hallgrímskirkja church. This isn’t just any church; it’s a symbol of Icelandic identity, a fusion of history, and a beautiful architectural design that speaks volumes about the island’s unique character. Later on, in my random fact of the episode, I share who this church is named after.

Ask Jewells AnythingBefore I jump in, I am excited to share that I have created a form where my listeners and followers can submit questions for the “Ask Jewells About Iceland” podcast episodes I plan to do. Here is he link to submit your question.

The Towering Presence in Reykjavík’s SkylinePerched on the scenic hilltop of Skólavörðuholt, Hallgrímskirkja stands tall at 74.5 meters (244 ft), making it not only the largest church in Iceland but also one of the tallest structures in the country. Its visibility throughout Reykjavík turns it into a landmark for those meandering through the city’s streets.

A Church was Commissioned by the Icelandic GovernmentAlthingi, or the Icelandic Parliament, put forth a design competition for a church in 1929. The only specifications were that it had to seat 1,200 people and have a high tower that can possibly be used for radio signal transmissions.

A Design Inspired by NatureThe church’s design, a masterpiece by State Architect Guðjón Samúelsson, was commissioned in 1937. Samúelsson drew inspiration from the stunning Icelandic landscape. The church’s exterior mimics the fascinating basalt columns found in places around the country, like on Reynisfjara black sand beach or Svartifoss waterfall. Overall, the design is meant to depict the mountains and glaciers of Iceland soaring up through imitations of hexagonal basalt columns.

The building of the church started in 1945 and the first stage of it was complete in 1948. However, only the ground floor of the back of the church was consecrated for service. The whole church was consecrated in on October 26th, 1986. This happen to be the day before death of Hallgrímur Petursson’s death and the same year Reykjavik was celebrating 200 years of being a town and city.

Hallgrímskirka is an Example of Expressionist ArchitectureIf you’re a fan of expressionist architecture, you’ll spot similarities in the interior of Hallgrímskirkja church with Grundtvig’s Church in Copenhagen and the Kirche am Hohenzollernplatz in Berlin.

Along with designing this iconic church, Samúelsson is also responsible for designing the National Theater, the Roman Catholic Church in Reykjavik, and the main building of the University of Iceland.

Inside Hallgrímskirkja: A Harmony of Art and SpiritualityStep inside, and you’re greeted by a serene yet powerful atmosphere. The interior, spanning 1,676 square meters, is a blend of traditional and modern design elements, evoking a sense of grandeur and reverence.

The Sound of Music: An Organist’s DreamMusic enthusiasts, rejoice! Hallgrímskirkja houses not one, but two large pipe organs. The crown jewel is the Johannes Klais of Bonn organ, featuring electronic action, 102 ranks, 72 stops, and a staggering 5275 pipes.

Standing 15 meters tall and weighing 25 metric tons, it’s an instrument that not only plays music but also tells a story of artistic brilliance. The organ was financed through private gifts. I think there are some pipes that people can “purchase” and once it is bought, you receive a certificate that you are a patron of a particular pipe.

An Observation Tower with a ViewFor the best views of Reykjavík and the surrounding mountains, take the lift to the church’s observation tower. It’s not just a church; it’s a viewpoint that offers breathtaking panoramas of the city and beyond. Entrance into the church is free of charge but if you want to access the tower, you have to pay 1400 ISK for adults and 200 ISK for children. There are discounts for seniors and groups of 10 or more.

A Tribute to a Legendary ExplorerOutside of the church, the statue of Leif Erikson, a gift from the United States, stands proudly. This sculpture not only honors the legendary Icelandic explorer but also commemorates a millennium of parliamentary history in Iceland.

Why Visit Hallgrímskirkja?Hallgrímskirkja is more than just a church; it’s a testament to Iceland’s rich history, unique geography, and artistic innovation. Whether you’re captivated by its architectural splendor, moved by its spiritual significance, or simply in awe of its commanding presence, this Reykjavík landmark is a must-visit.

It’s a piece of living history that connects the past with the present, a place where art, culture, and nature converge in a truly Icelandic fashion.

If you would like to experience a mass at the church, you are more than welcome to do that as well but you are asked to please be respectful because this is a religious ceremony. There are often concerts at the church and during certain hours or occasions the church or the tower are not available for use. I have those times in the description of this episode on my website allthingsiceland.com.

The acoustics in the church are amazing, and you can find tickets to concerts on tix.is.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe church is named after Hallgrímur Pétursson, one of the best-known poets in Iceland. He lived from 1614-1674. According to the website about the church, this is the following is known information about Hallhgrímur.

“When still a child, his father moved to the Bishop’s residence at Hólar in Hjaltadalur in the north of Iceland and Hallgrímur there received education. He was apprenticed as a blacksmith in Copenhagen, but abandoned the trade and studied in the Vor Frue Skole from 1632 to 1637. While there he met Guðríður Símonardóttir, who had been in slavery in Algeria.

Hallgrímur and Guðríður returned to Iceland where Hallgrímur became a priest at Hvalsnes in the Reykjanes peninsula and later at Saurbær in Hvalfjörður. He died in 1674. Hallgrimur is most famous for his Hymns of the Passion, a series of 50 meditations on the martyrdom of Christ, written in 1656-59.

The poems are generally considered to be classic in Icelandic literature. Verses of the poems have accompanied Icelanders for more than three centuries. They are read on national radio during Lent and in many churches on Good Friday. Hymns of the Passion have been translated into nine languages, including Danish, Norwegian, German, Dutch, Hungarian. A new translation into English by Gracia Grindal was published in 2019.”

See Hallgrímskirkja Church and More

Hallgrímskirkja church is only one of the many amazing places in Reykjavík you can check out during your visit. If you want more places, like hidden gems and other fun activities to take part in, you can grab my Iceland map.

Whether you just grab the map or full access, which comes with pre-made itineraries, you will have loads of recommendations for things to do in Reykjavík and around the country. You can find the link to my map in the “Trip Planning Help” tab at the top of the page.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeSkólavörðustígur, the street leading up to the church, is “school cairn street”. A cairn is a mound of stones built as a memorial or landmark. In this case it was a landmark for locals.

In 1793, one was placed where the church currently stands to serve as a marker for locals who want to see he sights and get a nice panoramic view of the surrounding area. Cairns were commonly used in Iceland out in the countryside to help people traveling to stay on course.

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The tale about Shaggy Trout is one I learned from reading the lovely book “Meeting with Monsters: An Illustrated Guide to the Beasts of Iceland” by Jón Baldur Hlíðberg and Sigurður Ægisson. I’m summarizing bits of the story in this episode but it is really interesting to read about this fish and other creatures in the book

The Tale of the Shaggy TroutIn the shadowed streams and hidden depths of Iceland’s wild landscapes, there whispers a tale as mysterious as the land itself—the saga of the Shaggy Trout. This elusive creature, veiled in myth and mystery, navigates the icy currents with a coat more akin to fur than scales, a peculiarity that sets it apart from regular trout.

Tracing its origins to the mists of time, the earliest chronicled mention of this enigmatic fish dates back to the 17th century, when it was branded a “poisonous menace.” Legends tell of its lethal nature, claiming that to consume its flesh is to court death itself, even after its unique shaggy exterior has been stripped away.

How Iceland’s Shaggy Trout Gets Its VictimsThe dark lore of the Shaggy Trout is stained with tragedy, as noted in 1692 when the inhabitants of Gröf farm met their untimely demise, a cooked piece of this fish lying ominously beside them.

Further intrigue surrounds the creature with descriptions from 1737 hinting at two distinct variations—one adorned with a shaggy fringe upon its head, the other bearing a hairy mane along its flanks, suggesting a diversity that could mirror the sexual dimorphism seen in other species, or perhaps indicate geographical variances akin to those observed in arctic char.

Sveinn Palsson, a revered 18th-century physician, recounted his encounters with this and other fantastical fish during his explorations of Arnarvatnsheiði moor, a place teeming with pristine wonders. His narrative intertwines with the grim fate of two brothers, found deceased with the remnants of this perilous fish before them, a cautionary tale highlighting the invisible danger its hair poses once removed from the water.

Where Shaggy Trout Can Be Found in IcelandThe lore of this fish is not confined to the annals of history but is woven into the very fabric of Icelandic culture, with tales of calamity and narrow escapes from its lethal allure. One such story is tethered to Kaldrani, where a prophetic dream foretold a tragedy linked to the consumption of this fish, a tale that resonates with the dark undercurrents of folklore where reality and myth blur.

The Shaggy Trout’s domain spans the breadth of Iceland’s waters, like the serene surfaces of Kleifarvatn lake to the remote Skorradalur lake in the north, its presence a whispered legend among the myriad lakes and rivers. This creature, with its peculiar aversion from birds of prey and its absence of a soft dorsal fin, embodies the resilience and mysteries of the natural world. The last written account of the shaggy trout was in the middle of the 20th century. Even though it has not been seen or written about in some time does not mean it has stopped existing.

In the heart of Iceland’s wilds, the Shaggy Trout swims in the shadowed depths, a legend waiting to resurface in the tales of those who tread the fine line between the known and the unfathomable. While it is totally safe to fish in Iceland’s lakes, please be mindful that if you come across a hairy fish that it could be this killer trout. It’s best to discard of it and fish in another area.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAccording to Jóm Ólafsson’s written account of the fish, the hair can only be seen when the fish is dead and always in the water. When it is above water, the hair sticks to the scales and is almost impossible to see. When in the water it looks like cotton or down, and it covers the body except for the tail. The fish is inedible to all animals.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeLoðsilungur – shaggy trout

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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Iceland, a land of fire and ice, offers a myriad of awesome routes for tourists to explore attractions, but none as well known as the Golden Circle. This popular tourist route is easily accessible from Reykjavik, and it encapsulates the raw beauty and geological marvels of Iceland.

In this comprehensive guide, I will take you through the classic stops of the Golden Circle – Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Spring, and Gullfoss Waterfall – and share insights on additional stops that will transform your journey into an unforgettable adventure.

Tip: If you were only to do the three main stops, Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Springs, Gulfoss as a round trip adventure that started and ended in Reykjavík, it will be about 3 hours and 27 minutes of driving without traffic or 233 kilometers (145 miles) according to Google Maps.

Ask Jewells Anything About IcelandBefore I jump in, I am excited to share that I have created a form where my listeners and followers can submit questions for the “Ask Jewells About Iceland” podcast episodes I plan to do. Here is the link to submit your question. It is a super simple form that only asks for your question and first name to submit. I will create a separate podcast episode to answer the questions submitted. It’s basically an ask me anything segment that I decided to start in 2024.

Thingvellir National Park: Where History and Geology ConvergeIf you are traveling from the Reykjavík area or the West part of the country, your first stop is Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This isn’t just a place of outstanding natural beauty; it’s a cornerstone of Icelandic culture and history. Here, the Althing, the world’s oldest functioning parliament, was established in 930 AD. As you walk through the park, you’re literally strolling between continents; the park lies in a rift valley where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet.

The sight of the vast, rugged landscape stretching out before you is awe-inspiring. In one part of the park is the gorgeous öxarárfoss waterfall. You can easily walk to it and other parts of the park, but there is also the option to drive to different points.

Please know that you are expected to pay for parking at the main parking lot, which is where the information center is located. If you do not pay, you will likely get a fine that your rental car company will bill you for.

Tip: Don’t miss the Silfra fissure, known for its crystal-clear waters and popular for snorkeling and diving.

Geysir Hot Spring Area: A Geothermal MarvelNext on the list of the main stops is the Geysir Hot Spring Area. Home to the famous Strokkur geyser, which erupts every 8-10 minutes, shooting a column of water up to 30 meters in the air, this geothermal area is a testament to Iceland’s volcanic activity.

The ground is alive here, with bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and the smell of sulfur in the air. The area is named Geysir because the hot spring Geysir used to shoot water into the air too but it is now dormant.

Fun Fact: The English word “geyser” derives from Geysir, the name of an old geyser in the area.

Gullfoss Waterfall: The Golden FallsThe crown jewel of the Golden Circle is undoubtedly Gullfoss Waterfall. Known as the ‘Golden Falls’, this stunning two-tiered waterfall thunders into a deep canyon, creating a mist that often produces beautiful rainbows, adding to its ethereal beauty.

The power and grandeur of Gullfoss are mesmerizing, and the story of its conservation is equally compelling, epitomizing Icelanders’ respect for their natural environment. During summer, there is a trail that runs alongside the falls that allows you to get a closer vantage point and feel the power the waterfall rumbling beneath you. During winter, this path is often roped off because it can be icy and dangerous to walk on.

Photo Tip: Capture the falls from various viewpoints to appreciate their full majesty.

Enhancing the Golden Circle Experience With Additional StopsWhile the main attractions are spectacular, there are numerous additional stops along the Golden Circle that can enrich your journey. Please note that I am not saying you need to do all of these additional stops but I think it is helpful to feature some that might interest you. Feel free to pick and choose the locations you want to add to your itinerary.

Natural AttractionsBrúarfoss Waterfall

Brúarfoss Waterfall is a hidden gem with its brilliant blue waters and fairy-tale-like surroundings. The great thing is that the parking lot for this area has change and it now only takes about 5 minutes to walk to the waterfall. It used to be about 1.5 hours one way, which was not convenient for most people.

Kerið Crater

Kerið Crater, with its striking red volcanic rock and a deep blue lake at its bottom, is a geological wonder. The crater is believed to be around 3,000 years old, and the contrast of colors here is simply stunning.

Geothermal Pools to Bath in Along the Golden Circle RouteFontana Spa and Geothermal Bakery

Relax at Fontana Spa, where you can enjoy geothermal baths and a unique Icelandic tradition of baking rye bread in the ground. The spa is in Laugarvatn, and it’s a perfect place to unwind and soak in the geothermal waters while enjoying the scenic views. The same people that run the spa have the geothermal bakery, where you can eat fresh Icelandic rye bread that was baked in the ground using geothermal energy.

Hrunalaug Geothermal Hot Pools

Off the beaten path, Hrunalaug offers a more private and rustic hot spring experience. These small, natural pools are a great spot to relax and soak in the Icelandic wilderness. The owners of these pools regulate how many people can enter to keep it from getting too crowded and every visitor gets 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy the pools. Please note that there are no showers here and the changing facility is an old turf house. It is truly a more authentic geothermal bathing experience.

The Secret Lagoon

Another must-visit geothermal pool is the Secret Lagoon. Located in Fludir, it’s one of the oldest natural geothermal pools in Iceland, offering a more authentic and less crowded experience than the famous Blue Lagoon. While it is named the Secret Lagoon, it is definitely not a secret any longer. Like other places along the Golden Circle, many people visit it throughout the year, especially during summer.

Fun Food PlacesFriðheimar Tomato Greenhouse and Restaurant

Friðheimar is an innovative greenhouse cultivation center. Here, you can learn about the magic of growing delicious tomatoes using geothermal heat. The on-site restaurant, set amidst the greenhouses, offers fresh tomato-based dishes, making it a delightful gastronomic experience.

It’s warm in there, smells amazing, and the food is delicious. If you do plan to come here, I highly recommend making a reservation way in advance. Spots for this restaurant fill up quickly in every season.

Minilik Ethiopian Restaurant

For a unique dining experience, Minilik Ethiopian Restaurant offers a taste of Ethiopia in the countryside of Iceland. It’s a great way to add some culinary diversity to your trip. I have eaten there and it was delicious.

The owners are an Ethiopian woman and her Icelandic husband. She is cooking the food and he is the host that seats everyone, as well as takes their orders. Ninty percent of the restaurant is decorated with items from Ethiopia.

Practical Tips for Your Golden Circle Adventure Best Time to Visit: While the Golden Circle can be visited year-round, the summer months offer longer daylight hours and milder weather. * Transportation:* Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Guided tours are also available. However, this is a very easy route to drive any time of the year and can be done as a day trip. Of course, your daylight hours will dedicate how much you see but a day tour during winter is still very much doable.

Best Local Icelandic Rental Car Company for Your Golden Circle AdventureGo Car Rental Iceland

If you plan to explore Iceland on your own when you visit, I highly recommend using Go Car Rental Iceland. They are a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

Go Campers

What to Pack and Wear in Iceland Clothing: Dressing in layers is key in Iceland. Weather can change rapidly, so be prepared with waterproof and windproof outerwear. * Footwear: Good walking or hiking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to explore beyond the main sites. * Camera: Don’t forget your camera and extra batteries. The scenic vistas are breathtaking and you’ll want to capture every moment. * Snacks and Water:* While there are places to eat along the route, it’s wise to carry some snacks and water, especially if you’re venturing off the main path.

If you are not sure what to pack, you can get my free packing checklist for Iceland that provides the essentials, and some extras, that you can pack for winter and summer.

Managing Your Time Exploring the Golden Circle Route in Iceland Allocate Enough Time: To fully enjoy the Golden Circle and its additional stops, consider dedicating a full day. This allows you to explore without rushing and enjoy the sites at a leisurely pace. Also, you can stay overnight in the area, especially if you plan to head south in the next day. * Early Start:* Begin your journey early to avoid the crowds, especially at the main attractions like Gullfoss and Geysir.

Cultural Respect and Environmental Awareness Leave No Trace: Always respect the natural environment. Stay on marked paths, take your rubbish with you, and avoid disturbing wildlife. * Cultural Sensitivity:* When visiting local establishments, respect the local culture and traditions. This includes being courteous and asking permission before taking photos of people.

Experiencing Iceland Beyond the Golden CircleWhile the Golden Circle offers a fantastic snapshot of what Iceland has to offer, the country has much more to explore. From the black sand beaches of Vik to the stunning fjords in the Westfjords, each region of Iceland has its unique charm and attractions. Don’t hesitate to extend your Icelandic adventure beyond the Golden Circle.

Iceland Trip Planning ResourcesI’ve received many amazing emails from listeners of the podcast and followers on social media asking me for my advice on what to do in Iceland. Due to the high demand for this information, I created some resources. All of the ones I will talk about are available through the tab at the top of this page called “Trip Planning Help”. Click on that and you will find links to everything I am about to share.

Video Trip Consultations with MeOne of the resources is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link. After you fill out a survey and pick a time that is available for both of us, we do a one-hour video chat via Google Meet.

During this time, we chat about your interest, parts of the country you want to visit, how to get the most out of your time, helpful information to know about Iceland before coming, and any questions that you have. I have done over 100 of these calls since I first announced them and I always feel delighted when I hear at the end of the call that people feel even more excited about their upcoming trip because of the consultation.

My Iceland Map to Plan Your Own AdventureAnother great resource is to grab full access to my Iceland map. This map was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeDrekkingarhylur pool or drowning pool. It is a deep pool near the bridge in Almannagjá, the narrow valley you walk through when you enter the area from the main parking lot, was a place where people were executed. Until the early 18th century, women in Iceland who were found guilty of crimes such as adultery, incest and murdering infants were tied in sacks and drowned there.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeGullni hringurinn – The Golden Circle

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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In the North on Drangey Island is where this tale takes place. It’s said that a man went to hunt birds and collect eggs on the island. As soon as he stepped foot on the island, he dropped died.

Guðmundur “The Good” Vs The Devil on Drangey IslandWord got around about the sudden death of this man and people felt that the reason for the death was an evil spirit or a devil. Guðmundur “The Good”, who was known as an individual that dealt with these types of spirits, went to try and sanctify the island a few times. In doing so, one time he met with the Devil.

According to the legend, the devil said, even evil needs a place to reside. Guðmundur gave it some thought after hearing this from the devil and decided to set aside a cliff area where the evil spirit/devil lives. It is a place where people are not allowed to hunt or collect eggs. In essence, it is a protected area.

This specific cliff is called Pagan Cliff. Since no one is 100% sure that an evil spirit doesn’t reside there and will kill you, people have decided to just leave it be. So, if you ever plan to go to this island keep that in mind.

Random Fact of the EpisodeYou can take tours to this island. Don’t worry, your guide knows not to take you to the off limits cliff. Also, Drangey island is an important place in Grettir’s saga, a folklore story I will be sharing at another time.

See More of North IcelandAlong with Drangey island, there are so many amazing places to see in North Iceland. The Diamon Circle route is one that is popular but I’ve had the opportunity to visit so many awesome natural wonders. If you want to add the north to your list of places to visit, I recommend grabbing My Iceland Map. It has over 260 different places around Iceland that I enjoy, including accommodations, museums, hot springs to bathe in, natural attractions, and more.

Whether you just grab the map or full access, which comes with pre-made itineraries, you will have loads of recommendations for things to do in the north around the country. You can find the link to my map here or under the “Trip Planning Help” tab at the top of the page.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeThe word Drangey has an interesting meaning. First it is two words together. Drangur and ey.

Ey means island. Drangur is stone pillar. If you look at a picture of Drangey island, you will see a small stone pillar next to it the larger island. Together those words are drangey or stone pillar island.

Books About Icelandic Folklore1 .The Guardians of Iceland and other Icelandic Folk Tales

Icelandic Folk Legends: Tales of Apparitions, Outlaws, and Things Unseen
The Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty Stories of Elves from Icelandic Folklore
Icelandic Folk Tales

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There are three main parts to the Winter Lights Festival – The Lights Trail, Museum Night, and Pool Night. I’ll explain each of them briefly and will provide a link where you can find out more about the 150 events going on during this festival where a number of artists participate.

The Lights Trail at the Winter Lights FestivalThe Lights Trail, a magical walk from Hallgrímskirkja down Skólavörðustígur to Austurvöllur, adorned with stunning light artworks that glow from 6:30 PM to 10:30 PM daily during the festival. It’s the perfect way to explore outdoor art and make those Instagrammable moments with your loved ones.

Pool NightPool Night on February 1st turns your regular swim or relaxing time in the hot tub into an extraordinary experience with events happening at each pool around the capital area. Dive into twelve different pools from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, all for free, and swim in a sea of light and joy.

For all those art aficionados, light lovers, and anyone looking to brighten up their winter, the Winter Lights Festival is your wonderland. Mark your calendars and let’s light up the night in Reykjavik!

For more insights and details, be sure to check out Winter Lights Festival – About.

Museum NightImagine a world where museums stay open late into the night, offering quirky and unique events to tickle your fancy. That’s Museum Night for you, happening on February 2nd, where the city’s museums transform into nocturnal wonderlands from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

What to Wear During Winter in IcelandI highly recommend dressing extra warm because you will spend a lot of time outdoors if you want to get the most out of this festival. If you are not sure what to pack, you can get my free packing checklist for Iceland that provides the essentials, and some extras, that you can pack for winter. In addition, my summer packing list comes along with it too, so you already have that for when you plan to visit in the warmer months.

Random Fact of the EpisodeEvery night of the festival, Hallgrímskirkja church is not only lit up but there is a light show that goes along with music happening periodically. I think it is every 15 minutes or so.

The kickoff to the festival starts with the first light show there. It is so much fun to watch and a great place to kick off your walk down the lights trail.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeVetrarhátíð – winter festival

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Today, we’re diving into some intriguing Icelandic tales from East Iceland, specifically some tales from the life of Pastor Vigfús Benediktsson. Back in the 18th century, Vigfús found himself dealing with some pretty wild supernatural encounters. Luckily for him, some of the intuitive and resourceful women in his life were able to help him out when he was in some spooky situations.

Pastor Vigfús’ Near Fatal Drink Before landing the gig at Kalfafellsstadur, Vigfús was the pastor at Einholt. Around this time, he bumped heads with a local named Ólafur at Viðborðssel. Let’s just say things got heated from time to time.

One day, Vigfús planned to visit his parishioners, despite the nasty weather. His wife, sensing trouble, advised against stopping at Ólafur’s place, the guy who he bumped heads with, but Vigfús went anyway. At Viðborðssel, Ólafur welcomed him and offered a drink from a mysterious bottle. At first, Vigfús did not drink from the bottle but as time went on he was getting thirsty, so he loosened the cork on the bottle.

Just as Vigfús was about to have a sip, his wife burst in, warning him not to drink. Instead, she took a swig, and spat it out. The dog in the room licked up the liquid she spat out and died on the spot! After that, she reassured Vigfús it was safe to drink, and he did without any harm. Personally, I wouldn’t want to touch the bottle after seeing the dog die from drinking for it but clearly Vigfus trusted his wife with his life.

Saved by his Wife AgainOn another occasion, Vigfús was traveling through the Öræfi district and ended up at Hnappavellir, planning to push on to Hof, which was not far off. While he had been offered an escort, he did not find one necessary, so he set off alone despite the late hour.

Later, he showed up at a nearby croft, Litlahof, and saw that someone was in the window. The woman that came out to greet him was surprised to see the pastor so late. Pastor Vigfús asked her if he could stay the night and that she keep a light burning the whole night.

Back at home, Malfríður (Sigfús´s wife) woke up in a panic because she knew that her Fúsi, the nickname she has for her husband Sigfús, was in trouble. To make sure no harm came his way, she gnawed on a piece of gray cloth from her bodice all night until dawn. When dawn arrived she knew he was safe and she stopped gnawing on the cloth.

A Ghost with a Deadly Mission Before his East Iceland days, Vigfús had a tough time in Aðalvik in the Westfjords, thanks to some hostile magicians. They had been using their magic to torment Vigfús and that is why he had left the area to serve in the East. Even though he was far removed from them, their grudge against him had not subsided, so they decided to wake up a ghost and sent it to kill Vigfus after he moved east!

As his leather-clad ghost made its way to Vigfus, it stopped first at Tvisker, scaring a farmer named Einar on Shrove Tuesday. When the ghost arrived early in the morning, Einar was the only one awake. Einar asked the stranger where he was from and the answer was the Westfjords. Einar assumed the stranger had a message for him, so he asked if he had any news and the ghost replied that one of Einar’s sheep was dead in the fields.

When Einar heard this, he immediately felt something was not right because how can a man from the Westfjords, which is very far from the East, know the mark that Einar has on his sheep. Just to note that it is common practice for farmers to mark their sheep in some way so they can find them during the yearly sheep round up called rettir or if they get lost in general. It make sense that someone from your own region would know the mark you have on your sheep but for a person from a very far area to know this is odd.

To test the stranger even more, Einar asked him where a key was that had been lost twenty years prior. Without a hesitation, the ghost told him exactly where it was. Now, Einar knew for sure this was not a regular person. He mustered up the courage and demanded that the stranger get out. The ghost did as he commanded but not without leaving his mark. As he crossed through doorways, the frames of the doors was ripped off and the wood pieces that once were doorframes were found scattered outside the next day.

The Ghost vs Vigfús’ NannyThe ghost continued with his mission to kill Vigfus. Before it reached Einholt, the nanny for the children of Pastor Vigfus, asked him to sleep in her bed that night and she would sleep in his. She was an old and wise woman that knew many things, so Vigfus did as she suggested. That same night the ghost arrived to the Pastor’s house in Einholt.

The next morning Vigfus was alarmed when he saw that the sheets in his bed where the nanny slept had been ripped to shreds. The older woman was lying on the floor and looking so weak. Vigfus went to see if she was ok.

She was able to tell him of the fierce confrontation she had with the ghost that night and that the sorcerer brothers that had sent the ghost will not being sending any more messages. It took all her strength to relay that to him. After taking a deep breath, she lay her head down and died.

My Iceland Map for Planning A Trip to East IcelandGrab full access to my Iceland map. This map was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created. With full access, you get over 250 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

Random Fact of the EpisodeEast Iceland is a lovely place that most people just drive through and don’t often take the time to check out because they don’t know what they are missing. I will do an episode dedicated to the east but one thing that adds to the spookiness of this area is that it tends to be quite foggy.

In my opinion, thick fog lends itself to scary ghost stories and I can only imagine what people have seen or thought they saw in the dense fog that can descend upon the region.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeÞoka – fog

Books About Icelandic Folklore1 .The Guardians of Iceland and other Icelandic Folk Tales

Icelandic Folk Legends: Tales of Apparitions, Outlaws, and Things Unseen
The Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty Stories of Elves from Icelandic Folklore
Icelandic Folk Tales

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Unfortunately one of the worst case scenarios has happened in Grindavik when an eruption started this past Sunday early in the morning. Two fissures opened and one of them was right next to some houses.

Everyone in Iceland and in many parts of the world who have heard about this have heavy hearts because we have been seeing the destruction of people’s homes right before our eyes and can’t do anything about it. My heart goes out to those who have lost their homes.

In this update, I will share what is known right now, how the current eruption is impacting the rest of Iceland, if flights to and from Iceland are impacted, what the government is saying/doing, what’s happening at the Blue Lagoon, and where you can keep up to date about the eruption if you want more frequent information.

The Start of the Latest Eruption:As a reminder, the last eruption was on December 18th and it stopped after two days.

Early on Sunday morning, like about 3 AM, after hundreds of earthquakes, residents of Grindavik that had moved back to the town were evacuated. At around 8 in the morning, the eruption began. This is the fifth eruption in 4 years on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

The first fissure caused concern, but the level of fear heightened to a new level when a second fissure opened up very close to the town.

It’s being estimated that this eruption is one quarter the size of the previous one. There were thoughts that it could last up to a week but recently it looks like it is fading out. However, there is still a lot of uncertainty about what will happen next.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhTraaomFr8&feature=youtu.be

Donate to help the Residents of GrindavikYou can donate to the efforts to help the residents of Grindavik here – https://www.raudikrossinn.is/english/donate/donate-now/

What the Icelandic Government is SayingThe Prime Minister of Iceland, Katrin Jakobsdottir, said today that,

“It is of course the case that the government has decided to protect the settlement in Grindavík with the fortifications that have started to be built and will continue to be built. They have already shown and proven their worth.”

Katrín Jakobsdóttir

Is the Blue Lagoon or Svartstengi Power Station Impacted by the Eruption?Due to the Blue Lagoon’s proximity to the eruption, it is currently closed. While the Svartstengi power station is still in tact, there is evidence of land rising in its area. We are waiting to see if that subsides or if another fissure opens up there too.

Are Flights to and From Iceland effected by the Volcanic Eruption?Fortunately, there are not disturbances to flights arriving or departing from Iceland. The eruption is happening on the same peninsula where the airport is located BUT the airport is in a safe area away from the lava.

There is also no concerns about ash causing issues with flying because the eruption is not causing ash to form.

Can People Visit the Volcanic Eruption Site?Due to the volatile nature of the eruption, the uncertainty of where a fissure can open up, and that authorities are working around the clock to finish building a wall to direct the lava in another direction, people are prohibited from visiting the eruption.

Please do not put your life at risk to see this eruption because it ultimately puts Search and Rescue team members lives at risk who will need to save you if you get into trouble.

Resources for More Frequent Updates About the Volcanic Eruption* Check out safetravel.is, if you plan to travel around Iceland – https://www.ruv.is/english * RUV English has a great timeline about what is going on and webcams * Ragga at the Lava Show on Tiktok (https://www.tiktok.com/@lavashowiceland) and Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/lavashowiceland/?hl=en) * Geology with Helga on Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/geology_with_helga/

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This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing fascinating stories from Icelandic folklore on Fridays throughout 2024.

The Wrath of an Elf Woman ScornedEven though this story is based in West Iceland, it starts out on the Reykjanes Peninsula in a small village. A group of men ventured to Geirfuglasker, known as Great Auk rocky island, on a g mission to capture great auks (a type of bird). But when it was time to sail back, they realized one of their own was missing. Reluctantly, they returned home, heavy-hearted and believing him lost to the sea.

A year later, the same crew found themselves back at the the same rocky island, and to their surprise, they found the missing man alive and well. He revealed an incredible tale: elves had enchanted him and held him captive for a year. The interesting part is that they treated him kindly yet keeping him away from his world. Even though they were nice to him, he longed for his home and elated to return to the world he knew with the group.

But his story took an unexpected turn. An elf woman, with whom he had shared a brief but intense connection, was expecting his child. She made him vow to baptize the child if she brought it to his church.

How the Evil Icelandic Whale Came to BeTime passed, and during a mass at Hvalsnes church, a mysterious cradle appeared outside, bearing a note demanding the child’s baptism. This raised suspicion among the people in the village that the man who had vanished for a year was the father of the child.

The pastor confronted him, but he vehemently denied any connection. At that moment, a tall, imposing woman emerged, cursing the man for his denial. She proclaimed that he would become a monstrous whale, a terror of the seas, then vanished with the cradle, leaving the villagers in shock and awe.

Driven to madness by the curse, the man raced to the sea and leapt from a cliff, instantly transforming into a whale that later was called Redhead because the man was wearing a red cap on his head when he plunged into the sea. Redhead became notorious and feared because he sank nineteen ships in his wrath.

A Blind, Magical Icelander Pastor Vs a Massive Serial Killer WhaleOne of the people deeply impacted by Redhead’s wrath was a blind pastor who lived at Saurbær. Tragedy struck when Redhead drowned the pastor’s sons during a fishing trip. Grieving yet determined, the pastor, guided by his daughter, made a pilgrimage to the fjord. One thing that made the pastor different than others who encountered this whale is that he was skilled in magic.

There, he and his daughter spotted the whale in the water. The pastor used a stick that his stuck in the ground along the shore to lead the whale through the fjord and up the Botnsá River. Not surprisingly, the huge whale struggling in the narrow, shallow waters. As they reached the roaring Glymur waterfall, the ground trembled like there were massive earthquakes because of the whale’s immense flailing about trying to fight against the magic. In fact, it is said tha the hills above Glýmur waterfall (glýmur meaning roaring) are called Skjálfandahæðir or Shaking hills because of this incident.

Finally, the blind pastor, with the help of his daughter leading him, had dragged Redhead the hot-tempered whale up to Hvalvatn Lake. Due to pure exhaustion from the difficult climb, Redhead died in the lake. The most intriguing part of the is story to me is that remains of whale bones have been found in this lake, which has led people to believe that it is a true story. When the pastor and his daughter returned home, the villagers were grateful for the work he had done to rid Redhead of the seas so it could be a little safer for all.

Random Fact of the Episode Hvalfjörður is only 26 kilometers from Reykjavík, which is about an hour one way. It’s a lovely fjord and the drive is really nice. If have time and you want to take the scenic route, I recommend not taking the tunnel and driving on the longer road around the fjord. Due to the beauty of the fjord, remote location, and proximity to the city, many Icelanders have cabins in this area.

Icelandic Word of the Episode Hvalfjörður literally means whale fjord

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Visiting Iceland in September is an experience that combines the tail end of summer’s allure with the onset of autumn’s charm. Here’s what you can expect:

Previous Episodes About Months in Iceland* January in Iceland * February in Iceland * March in Iceland * April in Iceland * May in Iceland * June in Iceland * July in Iceland * August in Iceland

Weather and Average Temperature Climate: September in Iceland marks the transition from summer to autumn but the temperature is still relatively mild. * Temperature: Average temperatures range from about 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). The days are generally cool and the nights chillier because we have dark nights now that summer is over. * Precipitation*: There’s a fair chance of rain, so waterproof clothing is advised. However, it varies from year to year as to what the weather will be.

Daylight Hours in IcelandLength of Day: In September, the days start to get noticeably shorter. You can expect around 11 to 14 hours of daylight.

September 1st – The sun rises at 6:09 AM and sets at 8:44 PM, which is 14 hours and 35 minutes of day light

On September 15th – The sun rises at 6:49 AM and sets at 7:54 PM, for a total of 13 hours and 5 minutes of day light.

September 30th – The sun rises at 7:32 AM and sets at 7:01 PM, which means we have a total of 11 hours and 28 minutes of daylight.

Northern Lights: The diminishing daylight hours increase the chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, especially towards the end of the month.

What to Wear in Iceland in September Layered Clothing: The key is to dress in layers. Bring thermal wear, sweaters, and a good quality waterproof and windproof jacket. * Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots are essential for exploring the outdoors. * Accessories*: Don’t forget hats, gloves, and scarves, especially if you plan to stay out at night.

My Ultimate Packing Checklist will provide you with everything you need to bring. I recommend following the summer list. Just know that it can be a little chilly during the evening in July, especially in the north, so you will need some thicker layers.

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland during September Roads: Most main roads are still easily navigable. You can easily drive the ring road and many highland roads are still open, especially during the beginning of the month. Watch out still for sheep that are on the sides of the road. They might cross at any time, so be ready to stop. * Weather Impact: Sudden weather changes can affect driving conditions. Be prepared for rain or early snow in higher altitudes. In the north, West fjords, the highlands and parts of the East fjords, it is normal to see some snow on the mountains during this time. It’s winter showing us that it is not far away. * Driving Tips*: Always check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading out. Sites like safetravel.is, road.is, yr.no, vedur.is are all great for checking if there are closed roads due to storms or other bad weather conditions.

Expert Trip Planning Tip for SeptemberIf you are looking to avoid the crowds of summer, September is a lovely time to visit. There are still long daylight hours and, as I mentioned above, most, if not all, highland roads are open. Plus, you can potentially see the northern lights!

Even though this is a shoulder season month, I still highly recommend booking accommodations far in advance. More people have been finding out that September is a great time to visit, so there is spillover of people from the peak summer months. This means accommodations you want might be a little hard to snag.

Renting a Car in September in IcelandIf you plan to explore Iceland on your own when you visit, I highly recommend using Go Car Rental Iceland. They are a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

Renting a Camper Van in September in IcelandIf you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

Why You Should Visit in September Fewer Tourists: September sees fewer tourists, so you’ll enjoy less crowded attractions. * Vibrant Autumn Colors: The landscape begins to turn stunning shades of yellow, red, and orange. * Aurora Borealis: With longer nights, your chances of seeing the Northern Lights increase. * Highland Access*: Some, if not all, highland roads are open at the beginning of the month.

Top Activities to Do1. Northern Lights Hunting: Venture out in the night to catch the spectacular Aurora Borealis. 2. Hiking and Trekking: Explore the natural beauty with trails less crowded. 3. Hot Springs: Relax in naturally heated geothermal pools. 4. Whale Watching: September still offers good opportunities for whale watching. 5. Glacier Hiking: Always fun to do this in Iceland regardless of the season.

September in Iceland Events and Holidays Reykjavík International Film Festival: A great event for film enthusiasts. It normally takes place from September 26th – October 6th. * Day of Icelandic Nature (Sept 16th): A day dedicated to appreciating Iceland’s unique nature. While this is not a widespread holiday, it is a nice to have a day dedicated to the nature here. Some institutions have programs, and others go out to pick litter. It is up to you if you want to take part in going out to appreciate nature in some way on this day. * R*éttir sheep roundup: Icelandic sheep are allowed to have what I call the “ultimate summer vacation” in Iceland because they roam and graze freely in many parts of the country. During September and beginning of October, there is a sheep round-up that dates back centuries. Farmers that own the sheep invite their friends and family to help them find the sheep in Iceland’s nature and bring them back to the farms. It sounds fun to those unaccustomed to it, but it is very hard work and long hours. Some farms allow for tourists to join in on the round-up and others are ok with you coming to the sorting day. During the sorting, all the sheep that have been round-up are put into bins for their corresponding owners. You can tell which farm they belong to by the tag on the sheep. After the sorting is finished, the sheep are transported to their respective farms.

Due to the high demand for this information, I created some resources. All of the ones I will talk about are available through the tab at the top of this page called “Trip Planning Help”. Click on that and you will find links to everything I am about to share.

Video Trip Planning Consultation with MeOne of the resources is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link. After you fill out a survey and pick a time that is available for both of us, we do a one-hour video chat via Google Meet.

My Iceland Map

Another great resource is to grab full access to my Iceland map. This map was created for those who want to pick out places and hidden gems around Iceland to make up their own itinerary or add to one that they already created.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

Here is a link to my Iceland map: rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeA few years ago, I headed to Landmannalaugar in mid-September. I had a blast going toward the end of the season because, so few people were there. The one thing that reminded me that weather in the highlands is volatile is that the skies were clear, blue and lovely while we were in the natural hot spring there. In less than 10 minutes, the sky turned gray, cloudy and ominous.

The wind picked up and snow started to fall from the sky. There was no indication in the forecast I had checked that this would happen. It only lasted about 5 minutes or so but it stuck with me. We were in a safe location but there have been others who have underestimated Icelandic weather, which then put them in potentially dangerous, if not fatal positions. I don’t say this to scare anyone but rather to share an experience that is possible anywhere in the country, but especially in the highlands.

Icelandic Word of EpisodeSeptember – Yes, spelled the same as September in English but it is said differently in Icelandic.

Visiting Iceland in September offers a unique blend of late summer and early autumn experiences. With its dramatic landscapes transforming colors, fewer crowds, and the possibility of seeing the Northern Lights, it’s a perfect time for those seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility. Always be prepared for variable weather conditions and enjoy the diverse range of activities that Iceland has to offer during this beautiful month.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega

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Today is the first episode of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing fascinating stories from Icelandic folklore on Fridays throughout 2024. This one is extra special because tomorrow is January 6th and it is said that many magical things happen then in Iceland.

Why January 6th is the end of Christmas in IcelandOn January 6th, Iceland bids a vibrant farewell to its Christmas season, a day steeped in magic and folklore. Known as Þrettándinn or “The Thirteenth,” this day marks the culmination of a thirteen-day yuletide celebration. Having 13 days of Christmas is uniquely Icelandic in its charm and mystique.

In Iceland, Christmas starts on the 24th of December, and Þrettándinn, literally translating to “the thirteenth,” aligns with what many know as the twelfth night of Christmas. But here, it holds a deeper significance, intertwining with the enchanting lore of Huldufólk, the hidden people of Icelandic tales.

As the day unfolds, the end of the festive season is celebrated. The last of the Yule Lads their family begin their journey back to their homes in the mountains. This retreat signals the end of their annual visit, as they vow to return next Christmas.

Under the starlit sky, Icelanders traditionally gather around roaring bonfires on this day. Songs of the New Year and elfin melodies float through the air, a celebration of community and folklore.

Keep an Eye Out for the Mystical Icelandic Creatures that Might AppearBut the magic of Þrettándinn extends beyond the visible. It’s a day when cows are whispered to possess the gift of speech. Their words a tantalizing mystery, yet one must resist the urge to listen, for their voices are said to bring madness. Seals shed their normal appearance and wander the land in human form. It’s a sight both wondrous and eerie.

The most fascinating part of all is that the Elf King and Queen are said to show up at the bonfires. They dance and sing around the crackling flames. Their jubilant voices echo through the night, a reminder of the enchantment that pervades this mystic evening.

Þrettándinn stands as a unique and captivating finale to Iceland’s Christmas season. A day where the line between the ordinary and the magical blurs, leaving behind memories as vivid as the Northern Lights themselves.

After this day, the festive spirit dims in homes across Iceland. Christmas lights might stay up until the end of the month because the light is nice to see during the dark months. However, trees are dismantled, and decorations are tucked away until next year.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeDue to so many random facts already shared in this episode, I don’t have a separate segment for that but the Icelandic word of the episode is Þrettándabrennur, which translates to the thirteenth bonfires.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega

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It’s the end of 2023 and it has been quite year in Iceland, my personal life and for All Things Iceland. This episode is a recap that hits on all those areas, and I share what I have in store for 2024! Of course, included in my recap is an update about the most recent volcanic eruption.

Like most of my episodes, I will also have a random fact and an Icelandic word of the episode to share at the very end.

How My Life in Iceland Has Changed in 2023I’ll start out with the personal bits first. For those that listened to my 5-year anniversary episode of the podcast in June, you know that Gunnar and I are no longer together. Deciding to split was not easy. While I decision to no longer be together happened in 2022, our divorce was not finalized until July 2023. The divorce process in Iceland is a minimum of 6 months. There have certainly been some challenging times throughout the process.

I learned a lot about myself and fir the first time in a long time, I started to live on my own. Even though I continued to work on All Things Iceland, I took many much-needed breaks for my personal well-being and that helped me to feel so much more refreshed every time I came back to publish videos, podcast episodes or to projects for other companies.

While my life changed drastically the last couple of years, it has transformed me in ways I never imagined. As I have shared in the past, Iceland is my home and I love being here, so it is where I plan to stay for the foreseeable future.

Spending More Time in the USI saw my family much more than I have in previous years. I came to the US three times, which is quite a lot for me, but it was awesome. I met some of my listeners and followers out on the streets of Reykjavik or at a coffee shop. I am often not able to meet up with people because of my schedule but I have thought of hosting dinners where people visiting can dine and chat with me in person while in the country. I would love to hear people’s feedback about that. Feel free to email me at jewells(at)allthingsiceland.com or message me via Instagram, if you are interested in that idea.

All Things Iceland Recap in 2023Even though, this fits into both the personal and professional part of my life, it was such a joy to be one of the people featured on Geography of Bliss hosted by Rainn Wilson.

For those who have not heard of it or seen it, the actor who played Dwight Shrute on the hit show The Office (specifically the US version), hosted a travel show where he goes around the world to find out what happiness means in different cultures. The first episode is Iceland. It was originally aired on Peacock, which is NBC’s streaming service, but I think it is available on several platforms now.

Not including this one, I published 32 podcast episodes last year, which surprised me because I didn’t feel like I put out that much in 2023. As you’ll soon learn about 2024, I have a lot more in store for the podcast because I miss having lots of great episodes going out that hit on many different aspects of Iceland’s culture, history, language, nature, and travel.

I couldn’t do as many interviews as I wanted in 2023, but my favorites were with Chief Phil Fontaine from Canada and Aka Hensen from Greenland.

I learned so much from all my interviews but those two were eye opening for me in many ways. I have them linked in the show’s description on my website allthingsiceland.com, if you would like to listen to them.

Who the Podcast Reached in 2023The podcast reached 187 countries last year. For those that are curious, listeners from the US are my largest audience but the top 7 are US, Canada, Iceland, the UK, Germany, Australia, and Norway.

There are many European countries after that, but I loved to see all of the ones on the list. Some that stood out to me as I scrolled through the list of 187 countries are the Aland Islands, Cameroon, Honduras, Uzbekistan, Ethiopia, Costa Rica, the UAE, and Taiwan (which is pretty high up there in terms of numbers).

It’s an honor to reach one person but to have reached over 846,000 listeners in the lifespan of this podcast blows my mind. I have so much gratitude for all of you.

Biggest Icelandic News Stories of the Year in 20231. The First Volcanic EruptionWe had two volcanic eruptions in one year! Litli Hrútur Eruption started on July 10th and was over by August 8th

It was in an isolated area on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The biggest issue that came up during that eruption is that large moss fires made for difficult breathing conditions for hikers to the site.

The 2nd Volcanic EruptionAt the end of October, the town of Grindavík started to experience constant earthquakes. By November, the town had been evacuated and facilities like the Blue Lagoon were shut down for safety reasons because of a potential eruption.

“The damage to homes and infrastructure in Grindavík could amount to ISK 10 billion [$71.4 million, €66.3 million], according to the director of the Natural Catastrophe Insurance of Iceland. Before paying out damages, authorities must reconsider the town’s zoning plan and whether some areas will be deemed no longer safe for residential housing”.

Icelandi Review

On December 18th at 10:17 PM, an eruption started on Reykjanes Peninsula north of Grindavik and quite close to the Blue Lagoon but far away enough to not harm it.

Plus, a protection wall made of lava rock had been constructed around the Blue Lagoon and Svartstengi Power Plant to try and protect them. Surprisingly, the eruption started really strong and pumping out a faster rate of lava than the last three but it also ended after two days.

Because the eruption had died down and there weren’t a lot of earthquakes, some people who live in Grindavik were able to speak Christmas at home.

The Blue Lagoon was closed from November until December 17th. After the eruption on December 18th, the Blue Lagoon closed again. On their website, they state that they will re-evaluate their status on December 29th.

I will explain a few more of the top stories but after that I will mostly just talk about some headlines before moving on to what is in store for the podcast in 2024.

An Icelandic woman extradited to Norway for the custody of her children.An Icelandic woman Edda Björk Arnardóttir was extradited to Norway amidst widespread controversy, as reported by RÚV. She was charged with unlawfully taking her three sons from Norway to Iceland last year, defying a Norwegian court’s custody decision favoring the children’s father. The father, an Icelandic resident in Norway, had legal custody.

Despite this, Edda Björk, using a private jet, retrieved her sons from Norway and brought them back to Iceland without the father’s consent. Four months ago, Norwegian authorities requested her extradition for trial. Before being extradited, she was detained at Hólmsheiði prison in Iceland, where her supporters, including friends and family, unsuccessfully attempted to prevent her extradition.

She is currently held in a high-security Norwegian prison, awaiting sentencing. This has caused such a stir in Iceland and abroad because many are in support of Edda Björk.

The Women’s StrikeIt is estimated that 70-100 thousand people gathered at Arnarhóll for the Women’s strike.

Conclusion of the whole meeting:

Women’s strike on 24 October 2023!

We demand correction of the undervaluation of the so-called “women’s” work!
That employers stop discounting their wages to women and women’s rights!
We demand specific measures to correct the conditions of the poorest women and men, because no one should have to live in poverty!
We demand that wage inequality and discrimination be eliminated!
That women and men can survive on their wages and have the opportunity to develop in their work to the same level as men!

Check out this link for more information about the strike and all the demands of the women who met and organized the strike.

Icelanders disappointed in the government’s response to Gaza 5. Icelandic Roads Least Lethal Worldwide 6. Whaling Ban Lifted in Iceland7. One in Four Preschool Children Has Foreign Background8. Iceland’s First Cacao Fruit Made Into Chocolate9. Opioid Crisis: Over 1730 Doses of Naloxone Distributed10. Vital to Prevent Travellers from Hiking Near Glymur in Winter11. Highly-Criticised Immigration Bill Passed in Iceland12. Elon Musk Walks Back Comments About Halli After Twitter ..13. Four Hotels Shuttered as Wage Negotiations Drag OnWhat’s in store for 2024 for All Things Iceland* I am working on a digital guide to help those planning to visit Iceland. It will be like a digital version of a guide book but with so much more, including videos about what makes each region of the country so amazing, a brief history about Iceland, Icelandic phrases, what to pack, how to prepare for coming to the country, and tons more.
It’s more extensive than anything I have ever done and there is plenty of information in the guide that you won’t find on any of my platforms, including the podcast. This will be launched in 2024 and the first announcement I make about it will be made to my email list. If you want to be one of the first to have access, you can sign up for my email newsletter on my website.
Ask Jewells is a new feature I plan to start in 2024 where you can submit questions about Iceland, I will collect them and when there is a enough of them, I will do a Ask Me Anything style podcast episode. If there are many questions, I will do several episodes throughout the year so they are not very long.
Folklore Friday is a new part of the podcast that I am excited about. The goal is to put out an Icelandic folklore story every Friday in 2024.
Doing more interviews in 2024. I already have three amazing people lined up who I think will share loads of great information as well as provide insight into Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeWell, no one is sure if the previous eruption is over or if it is just taking a break. Some experts are saying there might be an eruption around NYE. We shall see what happens, and I will update you if anything new happens.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeGleðilegt nýtt ár! – Happy New Year

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The latest volcanic eruption in Iceland started on Monday, December 18th at 10:00 PM UTC. When it started the fear was that the town of Grindavík would be in danger of being submerged in molten hot lava. Here is the latest on what is happening and if the town is in danger.

Will Grindavík Be Spared in Iceland’s Latest Volcanic Eruption?The eruption started north of Grindavík on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Due to major damage from earthquakes and the potential of magma breachin the surface, Grindavík had been evacuated some weeks ago.

Even though, no one was certain where the eruption would happen, it was fairly certain that one was mostly likely to happen in this area or even underneath the town. As of right now, the lava appears to be flowing away from the town and is confined between two mountains – Sýlingarfell and Hagafell.

Is the Blue Lagoon in Danger?Even though the eruption is happening across the road from the Blue Lagoon and the power station, there is no current indication that either are in danger. The Blue Lagoon opened on December 17th again after being closed for weeks, but then had to close again due to the eruption nearby.

It’s hard to say when it will be deemed safe for the Blue Lagoon to open again. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and it will be announced when the iconic location will open in the future.

Will Flights to Iceland Be Impacted by the Current Volcanic Eruption?Currently, flights to Iceland are not impacted at all by the current volcanic eruption. While this eruption is happening on the same peninsula where the airport is located, it is still far enough away from it to have an impact.

There is no expectation that there will be ash created that can pose a threat to engines of planes. If anything, you might be able to see the eruption well from the window of your flight if you are arriving in the country when it is dark. If anything changes regarding flights, I will definitely announce it.

Should I cancel my trip to Iceland because of the Volcanic Eruption Happening Now?While I understand the trepidation some people fear of coming to Iceland when an active volcanic eruption is happening, there is no need to cancel your plans to visit. There is only a very small area on the Reykjanes Peninsula that is currently impacted by this natural occurrence.

The rest of Iceland is open for you to explore and enjoy. Like I mentioned above, flights are happening according to schedule and there is no current expectation that this eruption will cause delays or cancellations.

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The Christmas season is in full swing in Iceland. Many of my podcast listeners and followers on social media have asked about some awesome ways to experience Christmas in Iceland. Back in 2019, I shared 16 Christmas Activities to Do While Visiting Iceland on the podcast. While that list is still helpful, I wanted to update it a bit and provide some more links to activities that you might find helpful.

Iceland during Christmas is a wonderland of unique traditions and festive activities, particularly in the Reykjavík area. Here are six reasons why these activities make for an unforgettable holiday experience:

Icelandic Christmas BuffetThe Christmas season in Iceland is rich with culinary traditions, and the local buffet is a must-try. It’s not just about the food, which includes delicacies like hangikjöt (smoked lamb) and laufabrauð (leaf bread), but also about the experience of sharing these traditional dishes in a festive atmosphere.

It’s a perfect way to immerse yourself in Icelandic culture. One of my favorite things is that there are regular Christmas buffets and all vegan ones. I had the pleasure of going to an all vegan one at Plantan Kaffihús, a vegan cafe in the city, and it was phenomenal.

I have also been to ones that are mixed, like at Hotel Borg. If you plan to experience an Icelandic Christmas buffet, make sure to show up hungry and open to trying types of cuisine that you might not ordinarily come across.

2.A Reykjavik Christmas Walking Tour This guided tour by Your Friend in Reykjavik is a fantastic way to explore the city’s Christmas spirit. It offers a blend of history, culture, folklore, and holiday cheer, providing insights into how Icelanders celebrate Christmas. The walk around Reykjavík’s beautifully decorated streets, filled with stories and local lore, is an intimate way to experience the city’s festive heart.

If you use my code ALLTHINGSICELAND (in all caps) you can save 10% on your Christmas Walk with Your Friend in Reykjavík.

3.Hunt for the Icelandic Yule Lads in ReykjavíkThe Yule Lads are a unique and quirky part of Icelandic Christmas folklore. Searching for their projections on downtown buildings turns the city into a playful and magical scavenger hunt. It’s a fun, family-friendly activity.

On Reykjavik city’s website, they announced fun prizes that they are giving away for those who participate in the scavenger hunt. I have a link to that in the description of this episode on my website.

In December of 2021, I shared the Yule Lads poem on my podcast in Icelandic and English for each of the 13 days that they each come to town. I started on that day to introduce their troll mother Grýla and other members of their family, like the Yule Cat.

4.Ice Skating at Ingólfstorg SquareLocated in the heart of Reykjavík, ice skating here is not just an activity; it’s an experience. Surrounded by the city’s festive lights and lively atmosphere, it’s a picturesque way to enjoy the Icelandic winter.

Usually, there are Icelandic santas, or Yule Lads, hanging out on the ice and playing with the kids. One warning that I think is worth mentioning is that the ice-skating rink here is not smooth.

It is a bit bumpy for a rink, so please be aware that can be harder to smoothly skate and easy to potentially fall. I am not sure why they are not able to make it smooth, especially since the ice-skating rink in Hafnarfjörður’s Christmas market is very smooth. I love to ice skate, so I had a blast doing it but I had to catch myself from falling a few times. Just a heads up for those that want to try it.

5.Visiting Icelandic Christmas Markets: The Icelandic Christmas Markets in the Reykjavík area include Ingólfstorg, Heiðmörk, Hjartatorg, and the Hafnarfjörður Christmas Village. They offer a cozy, cheerful atmosphere where you can find everything from unique handcrafted goods, traditional Icelandic Christmas treats and family fun activities. These markets are a hub of local culture and craftsmanship, perfect for experiencing the festive spirit of Iceland. Here are the open times for each of the markets:

Christmas Markets in Downtown Reykjavík###### Ingólfstorg Christmas Market

Smack dab in the middle of the city‘s center is this Christmas Market. It is vibrant and will definitely have you in the holiday spirit, especially with the music playing and children gallivanting around. Along with the ice skating rink are food vendors. There are also stores, restaurants and cafes all around.

Opening times:Every day from December 1st until December 23rd.

Hjartatorg Christmas Market

Hjartatorg means “heart square“ and this description fits well because this Christmas market is nestled in a area right off the main shopping street in downtown Reykjavík called Laugavegur. There are boths with people selling crafts of all kind. They are also food vendors and music.

Opening times: Weekends in December 13:00-18:00, December 23 from 16:00-21:00

Christmas Markets in Neighboring Towns that are part of the Greater Reykjavík Area###### Hafnarfjörður Christmas Village

The town of Hafnarfjörður transforms into a winter wonderland in December. It will take you about 20-25 minutes of driving to get there from downtown Reykjavik. There are lots of booths where you can buy locally made goods, like soaps, candles, drinks, and so much more.

If you keep walking in the small square you will see that they even have rides for kids like you would find at a fair. Their ice skating rink is small but the ice is smooth and easy to navigate. This is one of my favorite places to visit in Iceland during the Christmas season because there are also Icelandic yule lads (or santas) hanging around.

Opening times: Every Friday from 17:00 – 20:00; Saturday and Sunday from 13:00 – 18:00 during the weeks of Advent.

Elliðavatnsbær Heiðmörk Christams Market

Heiðmörk is a beautiful, small forest that is part of Reykjavik but takes about 15-20 minutes of driving to get there. I love coming here for a couple of reasons. First, the lake where the Christmas market is located is insanely gorgeous, espcially when it freezes over.

The other is that this a great place to buy an Icelandic Christmas tree, if you are in the market for one. In Iceland, the Christmas trees look straggly compared to the full, robust trees you normally see in homes that celebrate Christams around the world. However, they have their own charm and in the past, I have purchased a tree that hardly came above my hips. It was adorable and so much easier to decorate.

Inside of the building there, they have a lovely spread of vendors selling all types of goods. It‘s fun to look around and buy a unique gift for yourself or a loved one.

Opening times: Starts on 26th November and runs for every weekend until 18th December from 12:00 and 17:00

6.Shopping for Traditional Icelandic GiftsPlaces like the Hand Knitting Association of Iceland, Kirsuberjatréð shop, and Rammagerðin store are treasure troves of authentic Icelandic goods. From traditional sweaters to handcrafted items, these shops offer unique, high-quality gifts that carry the essence of Icelandic craftsmanship. Of course, there are many places to potentially buy gifts but I think those three are a great start.

7.Delight in the Laugardalur Christmas Valley & Árbær Open Air MuseumThe area of Laugardalur in Reykjavík transforms their botanic garden and surrounding park into a Christmas Village that is so lovely. There are tons of lights, a functioning Merry Go Round, the Christmas cat makes an appearance, gingerbread cookie decorating, and family puzzles at the open restaurant.

Open times: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours until 8 pm on Fridays to Sundays until Christmas.

Christmas at the Árbær Open Air Museum showcases how Icelanders celebrated Christmas before modern times. It is fascinating to see how traditional leaf bread (laufabrauð) is made, dancing and singing around the Christmas tree, wool being spun, and you can even taste traditional Icelandic hangiköt (smoked lamb). This museum is amazing to visit during anytime of the year but it is extra special during the Christmas season. This is the only place where you have to pay for admission because it is a museum.

Open times: Sunday, 10 December, and 17 December from 13:00-16:00.

Each of these activities offers a distinct slice of Icelandic Christmas culture, making for a holiday season filled with unique experiences and cherished memories.

Random Fact of the Episode Iceland lasts for 26 days in Iceland. Now, technically, it is 13 days BUT, and that is a big but, the Icelandic Yule Lads start to come in almost mid-December. It starts on December 12th, when the first Yule Lad comes to town and ends on January 6th, when the last Yule lad leaves.

For those new to this tradition, there are 13 Icelandic santas or Yule Lads. One comes to day on each day starting on December 12th. The last one arrives on December 24th. On the very next day, December 25th, the first Yule Lad that arrived on the 12th leaves town to go back to his home in the mountains. So, on each day starting on December 25th, one by one each Yule Lad heads home.

Icelandic Word of the Episode Jólasveinar – Christmas Lads or the Icelandic Yule Lads

A reminder to make sure you use my discount code ALLTHINGSICELAND to save 10% on your Christmas Walk Tour with Your Friend in Reykjavik and over 40 other tours that they offer.

If you are enjoying the podcast, please leave a written review, if possible, or a rating so that other people interested in learning about Iceland can know what they will hear when they listen to the show. Thank you to everyone who has been leaving such wonderful reviews and sharing the show with others.

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If you plan to visit Iceland in August, this information will help you to know what to expect when traveling during this month.

That includes the following:

Road conditions
What to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during that month
Some tips on driving in that time
Top activities, and events that happen annually during this month

This episode is part of a series about months in Iceland. Here are the other months.

Review of the All Things Iceland Podcast

“I’ve been interested in visiting Iceland for years and finally did it last January 2023 and fell in love-with the island! I’ve been 3x this year alone and hoping to spend time during every season. I listen to a lot of podcasts but somehow I missed this “gem” from Jewells! Pun intended! I’ve started listening from episode 1 and working my way forward and I am excited there are so many to enjoy! I am so impressed with Jewells’ language skills and love how she teaches a word every episode. As a fellow American from the East Coast I am inspired by her passion for such a beautiful and wonderful country. And maybe I’ll follow in her footsteps and move there too! Thanks Jewells for this wonderful podcast!”

Mel Loves Iceland from the U.S.

If you are enjoying the podcast, please leave a written review, if that is possible, on whatever platform you are listening to this on and you might here it in one of the episodes. Thank you to all of the people who have been leaving reviews and ratings. It helps others to know what they can expect to hear about Iceland when they listen.

Weather and Average Temperature in Iceland During AugustIn August, Iceland is as warm as it gets, though ‘warm’ is relative when talking about this subarctic island. Average temperatures hover around 10-15°C (50-59°F), with the possibility of warmer days reaching up to 20°C (68°F). However, Icelandic weather is notoriously unpredictable, so it’s not unusual to experience a little bit of everything – from sun to rain to fog – sometimes all within the same day.

Daylight Hours in AugustOne of the most extraordinary features of Iceland in August is the amount of daylight. While the midnight sun of June has passed, you can still enjoy long days with around 16 hours of daylight. Sunrise is usually around 5:00-6:00 AM, and sunset is around 9:00-10:00 PM. This extended daylight allows more time for exploring and experiencing the island.

August 1st

The sun rises at 04:33 and sets at 22:32 for a total of 17:58 of daylight

August 15th

The sun is up 05:17 and sets at 21:44 for a total of 16:26 of daylight

August 31st

At 6:06 AM, the sun comes up and at 8:48 PM the sun sets for a total of 14:42 of daylight

What to Wear in August in IcelandLayers are the key to comfort in Iceland. For August, you should pack:

A waterproof and windproof jacket.
Warm layers like fleece or wool.
T-shirts and lighter clothes for warmer days.
Waterproof hiking shoes or boots.
A hat and gloves – it might sound strange for August, but they can be very welcome, especially in the evenings or when out on the water during whale-watching tours.

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland during AugustAugust is one of the best times for driving in Iceland as the roads are generally clear of snow and ice. However, always check road conditions before setting out, especially if you plan to drive in the highlands or on F-roads, which require a 4×4 vehicle.

Always be mindful of the changeable weather, and remember that off-road driving is illegal in Iceland to protect the delicate environment.

Expert Trip Planning Tip for August in IcelandDue to the long day light hours, great road conditions, access to the highlands, and warmer weather, August is the second most popular month for people to visit Iceland. I highly recommend booking accommodations far in advance. Before the end of 2022, more than 70% of accommodations in the country were booked for the 2023 year.

If you know you want to visit Iceland during the summer, whether it is in 2024 or beyond, I strongly suggest booking your flights, accommodations, and car or camper van rental as soon as possible. Up to six months in advance for accommodations, car rentals and camper vans is not unheard of so that you can choose among the best options available during that time.

Go Car Rental Iceland Go Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

I personally use them for when I go on adventures, and I’m so glad to hear that many of my listeners and subscribers are also having a great experience with them.

I mentioned in a previous episode that one of my listeners switched to Go Car Rental Iceland from one of the internationally known rental car companies here and she saved $400! That was for a rental during the summer when prices can sometimes double due to demand.

Go Campers Camper Van RentalsIf you plan to use a camper van, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental. Also, I have a great episode coming up soon about how to choose the right camper van for your travels in Iceland, so keep an eye out for that.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in August Weather: August offers some of the most temperate weather conditions for outdoor activities. * Wildlife: It’s a great time for puffin and whale watching. * Nature: Waterfalls are at full force, and the landscape is lush and green. * Festivals:* Many cultural events take place in August.

Top Activities to Do in August Whale Watching: The waters around Iceland are teeming with marine life during this period. * Hiking: With the warmer weather and longer days, trails like those in Landmannalaugar and Thorsmork are very popular. * Puffin Watching: Head to the Westman Islands or other coastal areas to see these birds before they migrate. * Hot Springs and Pools: Relax in the naturally heated waters found all around the country. * Glacier Tours:* Whether it’s a hike or an ice cave expedition, August is a solid time to visit the glaciers.

August Events and Holidays in Iceland Verslunarmannahelgi: The first weekend of August is Iceland’s equivalent to a long weekend where Icelanders often go camping. * Gay Pride: Reykjavik Pride, a vibrant and joyous celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, takes place in early August. * Culture Night: Reykjavik’s Culture Night (Menningarnótt) happens in late August and includes free events like concerts, performances, and fireworks. * The Great Fish Day:* Held in Dalvik, a small town in the north, where you can enjoy a feast of fish and celebrate with the locals.

Final Tips for Visiting Iceland in August* Book accommodations and car rentals well in advance, as August is peak tourist season. * Be prepared for all types of weather. Don’t be fooled by the calendar; it’s still Iceland. * Stay informed about the weather and road conditions, especially if you’re heading into the highlands. * Respect the nature and wildlife. Follow guidelines for eco-friendly tourism to help preserve the natural beauty of Iceland.

August in Iceland is a dynamic, vibrant time filled with the best that nature has to offer. The blend of cultural festivities and the opportunity to explore the great outdoors make it one of the most desirable times for an Icelandic adventure.

Book an Iceland Trip Planning Call with MeThe other is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link.

Another great resource is to grab full access to my Iceland map, you get over 250 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map.

There is a link to the my Iceland map in the Trip Planning Help tab at the top of this website or you can go directly to the site of my map on rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAugust is such a fun month because we are still in summer but as we get toward the end of the month, we have actual dark nights. This means that the northern lights can potentially be seen.

I and many others have experienced seeing the northern lights at the end of this month. While I wouldn’t try to come this month with the expectation of seeing them, it a pleasant surprise when they do appear.

Previous Episodes About Months in Iceland* January in Iceland * February in Iceland * March in Iceland * April in Iceland * May in Iceland * June in Iceland * July in Iceland

Icelandic Word of EpisodeÁgúst – August

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As you stroll the streets of Reykjavik, with its vibrantly painted houses and Mount Esja as a backdrop, you’re likely to encounter many four-legged and furry locals. Yes, cats are roaming freely around the city.

These furry residents are not only tolerated but adored by the city’s human inhabitants. Please know that these are not stray cats. Rather, they have homes, but their owners let them roam around to explore and interact with other living beings. After learning this fact, you might be wondering if dogs are given the same amount of adoration.

Why Dogs Were Banned in Reykjavik, IcelandThe short answer is that in present day, dogs are accepted in Reykjavik BUT cats are by far more numerous and widely accepted. The reason for this is that dogs were banned from living in the city for 60 years!

The story begins in the early 20th century. In 1924, Reykjavik authorities enacted a ban on dogs within the city limits. This ban was a response to two things. One was a housing shortage, which made authorities feel like it would be too much to also have dogs in the city. The second was that dogs were not considered hygienic because they could be carries of a deadly tapeworm that could be spread to humans.

At the time, the health risks posed by dogs were considered significant, and in the interest of public health, the city opted to ban them entirely. Even though dogs were banned in Reykjavik, they were still considered an integral part of farm life in the countryside because they worked on the farms, so people were allowed to have them out there.

Illegal Ownership of Dogs in Iceland Changed HistoryFor much of the 20th century, dogs were a rare sight in the city. Major spotlight was put on the ban’s legitimacy in the 1980s after some well-known public figures in Reykjavik continuously violated the ban by owning a dog within the city limits.

One of the people involved was Albert Guðmundsson, who was the minister of finance at the time. He was repeatedly fined for owning his dog Lucy, but he refused to pay what amounted to about $500 in fees. He was so steadfast in not paying that he invited the police to arrest him and send him to prison, which they never ended up doing.

Albert was not alone in illegally owning a dog. It’s estimated that about 3,000 dogs were living in the city at the time and the police would periodically fine owners. Most people didn’t see the reason for the ban any longer and in 1984 it was lifted.

Dogs Can Be Owned in Reykjavik But Strict Rules Still ExistWhile the ban has since been relaxed, tight regulation of dog ownership in the city was enforced for an additional 22 years. Special permits were required for dogs and the application process was tedious. This discouraged potential dog owners from getting a canine friend and kept the dog population in the city low.

Today, residents can own dogs but there are still strict regulations. For instance, dogs must be registered and there is a yearly dog registration fee. Additionally, there are strict residency, leash, vaccination and worming laws, just to name a few. There is even a whole document detailing all of the rules that I found on Reykjavik.is.

The Rise of Cats in Reykjavik, IcelandWhile strict rules have been in place for dogs, cats, on the other hand, did not and do not face such restrictions. They were traditionally seen as useful animals, keeping the rodent population in check, especially in a city surrounded by water where ships and fishing were common. Without any competition from their canine counterparts, cats quickly became the favored pet among city dwellers.

The cats of Reykjavik are a proud part of the city’s landscape. They are well-cared-for, with many locals taking it upon themselves to feed and watch over those that don’t have an obvious home. As I mentioned, these cats have homes/owners but they have neighborhood hang out spots. It’s not unusual to find water bowls and cozy shelters set up by residents for the community cats.

The Reykjavík Cat Walk TourIf you are a cat lover or are even just intrigued to see where some of these feline cuties hang out, then I think you’ll enjoy the Reykjavik Cat Walk Tour hosted by Your Friend in Reykjavik, a tour company that prides itself on offering authentic local experiences. I have personally done this walking tour and loved it. It’s surprising how many stops there and all of the adorable cats that can be found in their usual spots, if you know where to look.

You can use my code ALLTHINGSICELAND (in all caps) to save 10% on your Cat Walk Tour and over 45 other tours you book with Your Friend in Reykjavik.

Grab a spot on the Reykjavík Cat Walk Tour by booking below:

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A Tail of Two SpeciesToday, as Reykjavik’s dog population slowly increases thanks to changing attitudes and laws, the city maintains its reputation as a cat’s paradise. Cats in Reykjavik aren’t just pets; they’re a symbol of the city’s past decisions trying to protect its residences and its commitment to animal welfare.

The plentiful population of cats versus the relatively few dogs seen on the streets serves as a daily, living reminder of a time when public health concerns overrode the companionship of man’s best friend. It underscores the long-lasting impact of legislation on local culture and how a city can adapt its identity around such laws.

Random Fact of the EpisodeThere are some semi-famous Icelandic cats on Instagram. One of them is Baktus and if you want to follow his account, you can find him here.

Icelandic Words of the EpisodeKöttur – cat

Hundur – dog

I hope you found this episode fascinating and informative. If you are enjoying the All Things Iceland podcast, please leave review or rating on whichever platform you are listening to this on. It is greatly appreciated, and it helps others to know what they can expect when they listen.

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As I mentioned in the previous episode, residents of Grindavík have been evacuated. Scientists have been anticipating a potential eruption but no lava has come up to the surface as of right now. However, that doesn‘t mean damage has not been done.

The tens of thousands of earthquakes in Grindavik have resulted in major cracks in the earth opening up. There are literal holes in the streets where a whole car could fall in. Damage to buildings and parts of the town is extensive and it will take a lot of construction to restore the area. The restoration efforts can only happen once it is clear that an eruption will not happen and no one knows when that will be clear. Magma is still being detected close to under the surface beneath the town.

The Blue Lagoon Remains ClosedDue to the situation, the Blue Lagoon has announced it will remain closed until November 30th. There is no knowing if it will for sure open by November 30th but we shall see. One thing that is happening is the construction of lava barriers to around Svartstengi power station and the Blue Lagoon to protect them in the event of a volcanic eruption.

The barriers are estimated to be 20-26 feet high (6-8 meters) and will take a little over a month to complete. Protecting the power station is important because it provides hot water to all of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Over 2,000 Workers Impacted by the EvacuationIn addition to the thousands of people who can‘t access their homes, over 2,000 workers and around 200 companies operate in this area. They have no idea when they will be allowed to be back to work or even the area.

Retreiving Valuable Items & Rescuing Pets in GrindavikResidents of Grindavik were allowed to access their homes to gather as much as they can within a 5-minute window. I know that sounds incredibly short. It is possible they had a little more time than that but is the time limit posted via news sources.

Residents had to leave their homes late at night and for many that meant they were forced to leave their pets behind. Dýrfinna, the search and rescue group for animals, has been working on rescuing pets left behind. As of right now, they rescued 100s of animals but 12 of them are still unaccounted for. Most of the unaccounted for animals are cats who are used to roaming aorund free outside.

Tax Hike to Fund ReconstructionAn excerpt from a news article on Iceland Reveiw about the Icelandic Government’s vote to fund the wall around the Blue Lagoon and power station.

The lava barriers will be financed by levying an additional tax on property owners in Iceland equivalent to 0.08% of their property’s fire insurance valuation (brunabótamat). The owner of a property worth ISK 100 million [$695,000, €650,000] will therefore pay an additional ISK 8,000 [$56, €52]. The tax will be levied for a period of three years, though it bears noting that similar taxes imposed in “Iceland have later become permanent.
Pirate Party MP Þórhildur Sunna Ævarsdóttir and Centre Party Chairman Sigmundur Davíð Gunnlaugsson argued that any lava barriers constructed should be paid for with existing tax revenue. Some locals have argued that the privately-owned Svartsengi Power Plant and Blue Lagoon, which have made significant profits in recent years, should partake in financing the barriers.”

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Donate to Red Crosses Relief Efforts in GrindavikDonate to the Icelandic Red Cross‘s emergency fundraising campaign to support the response to the current situation in Grindavik.

https://www.raudikrossinn.is/english/donate/donate-now/

Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me and others asking if we are ok. It is only the people in Grindavik that have been evacuated. The airport and all other parts of the Reykjanes Peninsula are operating as usual. Will let you know if that changes.

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Iceland’s iconic Blue Lagoon closed recently and here is why.

Since the end of October, land has been rising and thousands of earthquakes have taken place on the Reykjanes Peninsula near the Blue Lagoon and a neighboring town called Grindavík.

Even though no one is certain an eruption will happen, land rising and tens of thousands of earthquakes, some strong enough to be felt in Reykjavík, are what happened before each of the last three eruptions on this peninsula. We’ve had an eruption each year since 2021. The one this past summer was the shortest and thankfully all of them were in areas on the peninsula where harm to towns or infrastructure was not an issue.

Why This Possible Eruption Near the Blue Lagoon is DifferentSo the biggest difference between a potential eruption this time around and the other eruptions is proximity to infrastructure and towns. After public pressure and guests having difficulties feeling safe at the facility, the Blue Lagoon announced that it would close for one week to monitor the situation and reassess on November 16th.

As we wait to see what happens, authorities have put an emergency plan in place to prepare for the potential event of a nearby power plant being destroyed and an evacuation plan for the residents of Grindavik in the event that might need to leave the area.

This is obviously something that we in Iceland are not excited about at all in terms of the potential destruction of this eruption, if it were to happen in this specific area.

A state of Emergency has been DeclaredOne helpful thing is that, as of right now, the magma being monitored has stopped moving closer to the surface. In essence, it doesn’t look like magma is about to break through. However, that could change.

Also, today, November 10th, a state of emergency was declared by the National Police Commissioner due to an intense earthquake at Sundhnúkagíga. Apparently, there were two of them. One was 5.2 and the other 5.3 This was done to take precautions because bigger earthquakes are expected. I felt that big one tonight. The floor was rumbling and my light fixtures were swaying.

For those wondering, I live in the downtown Rekjavík area. While many here have felt decently big earthquakes, I have not. I know this last one was powerful because I felt it, so I can only imagine how tough that is for people living in Grindavík who are experiencing thousands of them

The Impact on the Rest of IcelandI think it is helpful to point out that his does not mean that all of Iceland is in danger or even the airport, which is on this peninsula. It is specifically this area near the Blue Lagoon, Mount Þórbjörn, a power station, and Grindavík. If you have a trip planned, it should be fine.

If this progresses, I will for sure update you but let’s hope that an eruption in this area doesn’t happen.

Alternatives to the Blue LagoonAlso, there are other spas or pools you can visit, like the Sky Lagoon near Reykjavík, Hvammsvík near Borganes, and the local swimming pools are amazing. A great one to visit is Laugardalslaug in Reykjavík. It is big, has many hot tubs, a huge slide, a sauna, steam room, Olympic-sized lap pool as well as a gym and spa attached to it.

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Welcome to this special Halloween episode of All Things Iceland. Today I’m sharing about Iceland’s haunted hot spring called Gunnuhver on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The Reykjanes Peninsula is the same area where the Blue Lagoon, the international airport, and our last eruption are located. It’s an area that most visitors never explore extensively and yet there are fascinated attractions, places to eat, accommodations, and, of course, this haunted hot spring.

How Gunnuhver Hot Spring was NamedGunnuhver is named after a woman named after Guðrún Önundardóttir, who also went by the name Gunna. It is said she lived in Sandgerði on the Reykjanes peninsula more than 400 years ago. The placed she lived in was owned by a lawyer named Vilhjálmur Jónsson. One day when Gunna was not able to pay her rent, Vilhjálmur came and took the only thing that she owned, which was a cooking pot.

This enraged Gunna because that is all she had to make food and now it was gone. She decided to go on a starvation protest until her cooking pot was given back to her but Vilhjálmur never relented and she died. The men that carried her coffin to the cemetery noticed at some point that it had become suspiciously light. I guess they would not dare open it, so they continued on to the grave site where she would be buried

As they dug her grave, a mysterious voice was heard saying “No need deep to dig, no plans long to lie”. The next day Vilhljálmur’s body was found blue and with broken bones. The spirit of Gunna had haunted him. Of course, this sparked concern in towns people, so a priest was called in.

The priest devised a plan to caste Gunna’s spirit into the bubbling hot spring and it worked. To this day, it is said that when you visit this hot spring you can see the face of a woman in the billows of steam trying to escape.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAlong with being haunted, Gunnuhver is also Iceland’s largest mud pool. It is 20 meters wide across the rim, which is about 65 feet. Mud pools are formed when steam from the boiling geothermal reservoir water comes out and mixes with surface water. When fresh lava rock in the area encounters the gases like carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, that are produced from the geothermal water and surface mixing, they turn to clay.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeGleðilega Hrekkjavöku (Happy Halloween) – hrekkur means prank and vaka means to awake

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega

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Over the years, I have traveled extensively around Iceland in a camper van, so the pros and cons I’m sharing in this episode are from personal experience. While the list might not cover every possible pro and con, I think it will give you enough insight about the experience to help you decide if this is something you want to do.

Rent a Camper Van in Iceland & SaveIf you plan to rent a camper van, I highly recommend using Go Campers. I’ve use two of their campers on long road trips. One was the Go Lite Automatic camper and the other is Go Big Automatic Camper. They currently have a large selection of campers available, great customer service, and competitive rates. When you use my code iceland7, you save 7% and get two free duvets with your GO Campers van rental.

Pros of Renting a Camper Van in Iceland1. Save Money: Renting a camper van can be more cost-effective than constantly checking into hotels or guesthouses every night. By having your accommodation on wheels, you can reduce the expenses of your trip significantly.

2. Travel Flexibility: One of the greatest joys of a camper van is the freedom it offers. You’re not bound by hotel check-in/check-out times, and you can decide to stay longer in a place you love or move on if you’re ready for a change of scenery.

3. Icelandic Campsites: While this can also be a con (more on that later), many of Iceland’s campsites are situated in breathtaking locations. Waking up to a waterfall, geysers, or vast landscapes can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I recommend using the website tjalda.is to find campsites in Iceland.

4. Variety of Camper Vans: Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a family, there’s a camper van to fit your needs. From basic models to luxurious ones with all amenities, the choices are plentiful.

5. So Many Places to Explore: Iceland is replete with natural wonders, from the Blue Lagoon to the colorful mountains in the Icelandic highlands. With a camper van, you have the convenience of stopping at off-the-beaten-path locations, making your trip even more memorable.

6. What Comes with a Camper Van: Most camper vans come equipped with cooking facilities, bedding, and sometimes even Wi-Fi. This means less to pack and a more comfortable journey overall. A heater, electric cooler, a sink and different amenities are available on what kind of van you choose.

Cons of Renting a Camper Van in Iceland1. Icelandic Campsites: Here’s the flip side – not all campsites are created equal. Some might be crowded, especially during peak tourist season, and may lack essential facilities.

2. Using the Bathroom at Night: Most camper vans don’t come with a toilet. So, those midnight nature calls can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re parked far from campsite facilities or in more isolated areas.

3. Extra Camper Van Costs: While the van itself might seem like a bargain, remember to factor in the cost of fuel, campsite fees, and any additional equipment or insurance you might need.

4. Icelandic Weather: Iceland’s weather is notorious for its unpredictability. Driving a camper van in strong winds, rain, or snow can be challenging. And even if you’re not driving, being cooped up in a small space during bad weather can be less than ideal.

5. Confined Space: Even the most spacious camper vans can feel tight after a few days, especially if you’re traveling with others. It requires a certain level of adaptability and patience. Here are some packing cubes that are so useful to use for your camper van adventures.

6. When Campsites Are Open: Not all campsites are open year-round. If you’re traveling during the off-season, you might find limited options, which can pose challenges for where you can legally and safely park for the night.

Free Iceland Packing Checklist for Winter & Summer

For the full list of essentials of what to pack and wear in Iceland, grab my free Ultimate Packing Checklist.

Random Fact of the EpisodeMy favorite campsite in Iceland is called Heydalur in the West fjords. They have such amazing facilities, like a gorgeous pool in a greenhouse, geothermal hot springs, beautiful grounds, a hotel, a restaurant and more.

Icelandic Word of the episodeFerðabíll or Húsbíll – camper van

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If you plan to visit Iceland in July, this information will help you to know what to expect when traveling during this month. That includes road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during that month, some tips on driving in that time, top activities, and events that happen annually during this month.

July Weather & Average Temperature in IcelandJuly is one of the warmest months in Iceland, though “warm” by Icelandic standards might be considered mild in many other places. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). However, in particularly sunny conditions, it can reach up to 20°C (68°F). Nighttime temperatures rarely go below 8°C (46°F). It’s also one of the drier months, but always be prepared for rain or drizzle.

Daylight Hours during July in IcelandOne of the most enchanting features of Iceland in July is the phenomenon known as the Midnight Sun. This is when the sun barely sets or doesn’t set at all. In Reykjavik, the sun can set around midnight and rise again around 3 AM, but it never gets truly dark. The further north you go, the more pronounced this effect is.

July 1st – Sunrise is at 03:05 AM and sunset is at 11:56 PM. 20 hours and 51 minutes of daylight can be expected.

On July 15th, you can expect the sun to rise at 3:40 AM and sunset is at 11:24 PM. You will have 19 hours and 45 minutes of daylight at this time.

The last day of the month, July 31st, has slightly less day light but not much! You can expect the sun to come up at 4:30 AM and set at 10:35 PM. That amounts to 18 hours and 5 minutes of daylight.

What to Wear/Pack for Iceland in July1. Layer Up: The weather can be unpredictable. Start with a base layer, add an insulating layer like a fleece or wool sweater, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. 2. Waterproofs: Always carry a waterproof jacket and possibly trousers. Showers can come and go suddenly. 3. Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots are ideal, especially if you plan on exploring the countryside. 4. Sun Protection: Due to the angle of the sun, sunburn can sneak up on you. Pack sunglasses, sunblock, and maybe a hat. 5. Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimsuit for those geothermal pools and the Blue Lagoon.

For the full list of essentials of what to pack and wear in Iceland, grab my free Ultimate Packing Checklist.

Road Conditions & DrivingJuly is one of the best months for driving in Iceland. Most of the highland roads (F-roads) that are closed during the winter due to snow and muddy conditions start to open up in late June to early July, providing access to Iceland’s rugged interior. Nonetheless, always check road conditions before traveling, especially if heading to the highlands. Car rental companies will provide necessary information, and you can also use the website of the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration.

Expert Trip Planning Tip for JulyDue to the long day light hours, great road conditions, access to the highlands, and warmer weather, July is the most popular month for people to visit Iceland. I highly recommend booking accommodations far in advance. Before the end of 2022, more than 70% of accommodations in the country were booked for the 2023 year.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in July1. Optimal Road Conditions: This allows for a smoother Ring Road trip and access to the Highlands. 2. Vibrant Flora: Iceland is in full bloom, making its landscapes even more mesmerizing. The purple lupine are still around during the first part of the month too. 3. Wildlife Watching: It’s an ideal time for puffin, other bird life, and whale watching. 4. 24-hour bright, long days

Top Activities to Do in July1. Hiking in the highlands of Iceland like Landmannalaugar: Located in the Highlands, its colorful rhyolite mountains and hot springs are a treat. 2. Puffin Watching: Head to places like the Westman Islands or Látrabjarg cliffs in the Westfjords. 3. Whale Watching: Husavik in North Iceland is considered the whale-watching capital. 4. Glacier hiking 5. Midnight Sun Marathon: Held in Reykjavik, it’s an experience like no other.

July Events and HolidaysJuly is an interesting time in Iceland because it’s when many Icelanders go on vacation. So, they are not major events or holidays happening during this month but there are still annual activities that might be of interest.

Songhátíð í Hafnarborg – The Song Festival in Hafnarfjörður
The Chamber Music Festival in Reykholt
The Bláa Kirkjan Concert Series in Seyðisfjörður, East Iceland
Lung-A festival is also in Seyðisfjörður, East Iceland
A heavy metal festival called Eistnaflug in Neskaupstaður, East Iceland
The Bræðslan festival in Borgarfjörður Eystri
For horse lovers, there is the annual National Icelandic Horse Competition, which rotates locations in the countryside.

Plan Your July Adventure in Iceland with EaseIf you want even more recommendations on amazing things to do, I have a few options for helping you plan your epic adventure in Iceland. The links to all of these options are under the “trip planning help” tab at the top of this website.

One option is a one-to-one hour-long video consultation with me. After filling out a short survey and choosing a date in my calendar that works for both of us, we hop on a Google Meet video call and discuss how you can best use your time. I have done 82 of these so far and it’s been a blast virtually meeting many of my podcast listeners and social media followers. I’ve also had great feedback about how helpful those calls have been for those that booked.

If you prefer not to jump on a video call but you want more personalized help, you can purchase a personalized itinerary that I will make for you.

Lastly, if you feel like planning it all yourself is preferred but you want to know about hidden gems and places you just might not be aware of, you can grab My Iceland Map. I have compiled over 250 awesome places, activities, accommodations and more in this map.

If you decide to get full access to it, you will also receive all of the pre-set itineraries I have made. Those itineraries include a 10-day epic Summer Ring Road Adventure, a 3-day South Coast Adventure, The Famous Golden Circle Route, and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day trip itinerary. Additionally, if I make any updates to the map, such as new places, you will get those updates too since you have lifetime access.

Previous Episodes About Months in Iceland* January in Iceland * February in Iceland * March in Iceland * April in Iceland * May in Iceland * June in Iceland

Random Fact of the EpisodeIt is said that Iceland averages 171 hours of sunlight during this month.

Icelandic word of episodeJúlí – July

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega

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Winter is Iceland often has many potential visitors shaking in their boots. To be fair, the country is called Iceland, so I understand people being a bit worried about the weather conditions and wondering if winter is a good time for them to visit.

When this episode is published, we are in autumn and winter is fast approaching. While you might be tempted to shy away from exploring this island of fire and ice in the North Atlantic during the winter season, my aim is to share with you why Iceland is worth visit during the winter, despite some potential challenging conditions.

Winter in Iceland Topics* What is winter like in Iceland? * The dark and long winter days * When are the winter months in Iceland? * Average temperature & Weather * Travel Tips for Driving Around Iceland during winter * Traveling around Iceland during winter * The Best activities to do during winter in Iceland * Renting a Car * The Northern Lights in Iceland during winter * Iceland’s winter events worth attending * What to pack for a winter adventure in Iceland? * Resources for winter in Iceland

What is Iceland Like in Winter? Imagine a world painted in shades of white, blue, and gold. Snow-capped mountains stand against a backdrop of golden-hued skies, with frosted landscapes spanning as far as the eye can see lining the roads.

Fully or half frozen waterfalls look like the works of a sculpture, and steam rises mysteriously from geothermal pools amidst the snowy expanse. This is Iceland in winter – a beautiful wonderland that offers otherworldly landscapes at every turn.

The Dark and Long Winter DaysOne of the most distinct features of Icelandic winters is the prolonged darkness. With just a few hours of daylight during the peak of winter, you might wonder if it will hinder you from having a great time. While it does mean that you don’t have endless hours of daylight to explore like during summer, dark days have their charm too.

When the sun is up, the soft illumination casts the landscapes in gorgeous hues, making every moment feel like golden hour. During the night, the snowy and ice help to not make it seem so dark. Plus, long, dark nights mean you have more hours to potentially see the surreal northern lights.

When are the Winter Months in Iceland? Winter in Iceland generally spans from November to March, with December and January being the darkest and coldest months. This is the ideal period to embrace the unique experiences Iceland offers during this season.

I have been doing individual episodes of what to expect during each month in Iceland. I started it in 2023. For winter, I have already have January, February, and March. Links to those and the ones I do for November and December soon will be linked here as well.

The Weather in Iceland During WinterAverage Temperature range in the capital area in Iceland during winter is around zero degrees Celsius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit. It is a bit chillier in the north, often going below zero. However, we do get cold spells from time to time and I talk about just how cold it has gotten here a little later. You can also expect snow storms and occasional wind storms too.

Travel Tips for Driving Around Iceland during Winter Stay Updated: Always check the Icelandic Meteorological Office website for weather updates and road conditions. * Drive Slowly: Due to icy conditions, it’s imperative to drive at reduced speeds. * Daylight Driving: As daylight is limited, plan your drives during those few precious hours. * Emergency Kit: Ensure your vehicle has a winter emergency kit, including items like a flashlight, snacks, and a first-aid kit. * Streetlights: There is a plethora of street lights in heavily populated areas. However, those diminish significantly when you are out in the countryside. Yes, there are some places with streetlights, but you will mainly have to rely on your * Hire the Right Vehicle*: Consider renting a 4×4 with winter tires if you plan to drive outside of the city.

Renting a Car for Winter in IcelandMost rental car companies put studded tires on their vehicles. They come in handy whether you are driving in the city or in the countryside.

My go-to car rental company is Go Car Rental Iceland. I use them for all of my adventures throughout the seasons. They have a large variety of cars, competitive prices, and great customer service. When you can use my code Iceland10, you save 10% on your full car rental cost with them.

Also, if you are curious about which 4×4 I drive during the winter, it is the Mitsubishi Eclipse PHEV.

Traveling Around Iceland during WinterJourneying around Iceland in winter can be a magical experience. Roads might take you past ice-laden waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss or through snowy landscapes in the Snaefellsnes Peninsula. Consider joining guided tours, especially for activities like glacier hiking or ice caving, as professionals will know the safest routes and times.

Often, it is expected that parts of the far North, Westfjords, and Eastfjords will have more intense winter conditions than in the south. For instance, it is uncommon for snow to pile up higher than the top of the front door in remote areas like the West fjords and East fjords.

I have traveled to North Iceland many times during the winter and thoroughly enjoyed it, so please don’t think the whole north is off limits. It mainly depends on the conditions when you are visiting and if there are any storm warnings.

The Most Popular Activities to Do during Winter in Iceland1. Ice Caving: Explore the mesmerizing blue caves in Vatnajokull Glacier. 2. Glacier Hiking: Gear up and hike atop the icy expanse for unparalleled views. 3. Snowmobiling: Zoom across Iceland’s snowy terrains for an adrenaline rush. 4. Relaxing in Geothermal Pools: Whether it’s the Blue Lagoon or a hidden hot spring, nothing beats soaking in warm waters surrounded by snow. 5. Hunting for the Northern Lights

The Northern Lights in Iceland during WinterAh, the pièce de résistance of winter in Iceland! The aurora borealis, dancing across the night sky in ribbons of green, pink, and purple, is a sight to behold. The long nights increase your chances of witnessing this natural wonder, especially in areas with minimal light pollution.

If you want to know more about the Northern Lights, I recommend checking out my episode titled “How & Where to See in the Northern Lights in Iceland“.

Iceland’s Winter Events Worth Attending* Christmas markets * Christmas buffets * Ice skating at the Ingólfstorg square downtown * New Years Eve party! * Winter Lights Festival – It celebrates both the winter world and the growing sunlight after a long period of darkness. From art installations to light shows, it’s an experience that beautifully blends culture and nature.

What to Pack for a Winter Adventure in Iceland? Warm Layers: Think thermal undergarments, fleece layers, and waterproof and windproof jackets. * Footwear: Waterproof, insulated boots with a good grip are essential. * Micro spikes * Accessories: Gloves, scarves, hats, and warm socks. * Portable Charger: Your devices might drain faster in the cold. * Swimwear*: For those delightful dips in geothermal pools.

Get more packing essentials in my free Ultimate Packing Checklist.

Resources for Winter in Iceland:1. Safetravel.is – for storm updates and possible road closures. You can also submit your travel plan there. So, in the off chance that you lose service or get injured and can’t call for help, they will have known where you were supposed to be in the country, which means they can find you faster. 2. Vegagerðin (The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration) – for real-time road conditions. 3. A weather app you like. Personally, I have found that the Norwegian weather app called yr.no has been very good at predicting Icelandic weather. I use that more than the official meteorological Icelandic one because it can be glitchy.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAs I mentioned earlier in the episode, Iceland is not as cold as people might expect. BUT, we did have a very cold December last year.

According to Iceladnd Monitor,

“Last December was the coldest December in the country since 1973, or for almost half a century ago, with an average temperature in the country -4.0 degrees Celsius or 24.8 degrees Fahrenheit.

December has not been as cold in over 100 years in Reykjavík, but the last time it was this cold in the capital was in December 1916, according to the Met Office.”

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeVetur – winter

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Over the summer, I had the pleasure of traveling around Iceland, which has become an annual trip for me in the last few years. To my surprise, I always get to experience something new each time. East Iceland has a lot of hidden gems, so don’t skip out on making time for this area.

Get Access to More Hidden Gems in IcelandSænautasel, the turf houses and farm I m featuring in this episode, and hundreds of other attractions, activities, and accommodations in Iceland are available on My Iceland Map. I have added over 50 places since I launched my Iceland map in July and it is constantly being updated.

If you grab the full access to my Iceland map, you get over 250 places that I recommend in Iceland, along with four itineraries to use for planning your trip. Those itineraries include a 10-day Ring Road trip, a 3-day South Iceland trip, The Famous Golden Circle and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day Trip.

A one-time purchase gives you lifetime access, which includes any updates I make to the map. Until October 1st, 2023, I am providing a 10% discount on full access and my wonderful podcast listeners are the first ones I am sharing this discount with.

To get the 10% discount, use the code “take10”, that is the word take in lowercase and the number 10.

There is a link to the my Iceland map in the Trip Planning Help tab at the top of this website or you can go directly to the site of my map on rexby.com/jewells/Iceland

Living in the Icelandic HighlandsIn some of my other episodes about the Icelandic highlands, you might have heard me say that no one lives in this area of the country even though it consists of about 80% of the land mass of Iceland. The reason for this is that the Icelandic highlands do not have a lot of fertile land, they are higher up in elevation which means it can be much colder and the weather is even more variable there. Well, there was a time when some people did live in the highlands.

Saenautasel’s Fascinating HistoryStarting in 1843, some Icelanders chose to live among the gorgeous landscapes of Jökuldalsheiði heath, which is known as Sænautasel farm. In 1875, the ferocious eruption of the Askja caldera forced the abandonment of this farm. But five years later, the former inhabitants returned and rebuilt.

Over the years volcanic onslaughts and other natural disruptions challenged those living there but they persisted. Like many houses in Iceland during this time the buildings were made of turf. Turf houses are literally made of sod, turf and stone stacked in an ingenious way to provide shelter and insulation from harsh Icelandic weather.

One of the major downfalls of living in a turf house is that they need to be reconstructed because the material can wear away due to the elements. Granted, that happens with most materials, but it can happen faster with turf. So, the turf houses underwent several reconstructions but never lost their charm. 1943 was the last year that anyone lived full-time in these houses. The allure of the more modern world beckoned people down from the highlands.

The Rebirth of Saenautasel Turf HousesThe most recent rebirth of the turf houses was in 1992 by descendants of the last residents. A few of houses were turned into a living museum and lovely café. I visited Sænautasel on a rainy and foggy day with my Icelandic friend Hrafndís Bara, who grew up in East Iceland.

After parking in the lot, we were greeted by Icelandic sheep at the gate to enter. Most sheep here are not fond of people but you can tell that these sheep have grown accustomed to interacting with humans. They acted more like dogs than sheep and it was cute. Since it was summer, the first thing I noticed was how lush and green the roofs of the turf houses look.

A Cozy Cafe in the Icelandic HighlandsThe first house we entered was the café and I was enamored with it right away. One thing to remember is that the doorways of these old houses are short, so watch your head when you enter!

It is so cozy and the setup is lovely. There are long tables decorated with table clothes, lit candles, teacups, tea kettles and more. The walls are lined with traditional Icelandic sweaters (lopapeysa) for sale and interesting knick knacks are around. Because it was a bit chilly that day, they even have the fire place going, which added to how cozy it felt.

In the café, they serve lummur (basically a pancake), coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.

Vegan Food in the Middle of NowhereThe most astonishing thing is that they had vegan pancakes and hot chocolate! I almost hugged the lady making the food because I was so excited. The food did not disappoint! The panckaes have a nice crispy outside and moist inside. Traditionally, Icelanders put raisins in their lummur but you can have them without it.

Exploring Saenautasel’s Turf HouseThe other house, just steps away from the café, is where you can see how people lived between 1843 and 1943. The kitchen, pantry, and storage for certain animals are fascinating. The earthy floors, and walls of rock make the place look like it is in a time capsule. It can be quite dark in there so make sure to watch your step.

One area of the house is an actual apartment that people can rent to stay overnight. It’s small but very nice and you sleep in a loft area. I feel like that would be the ultimate way to experience being back in time, even though there are modern things in that section of the house.

While the charm of the place has been kept intact as much as possible, there have been some modern upgrades for the comfort of the family that stays here over the summer and guests. For instance, there is running water and modern toilets.

When to Visit Saenautasel Turf Houses & CafeIf you would like to visit Sænautasel, it is only available during the summer months from June to September. This place is such a hidden gem that the owners only have their website in Icelandic because that is who mainly comes to visit. I have a link to their site in the description. I recommend using Google Translate if you need help. Luckily, there are not a lot of words on the page and the owners speak English well.

If you are into fishing, the Sænaut lake is about 20 km from the turf houses and is said to have a lot of Char living in it. You can either camp nearby or stay at the turf houses. While I have never been fishing in Iceland, I am pretty sure you need a fishing card to do this activity.

These lovely turf houses and cafe are only an hour‘s drive from Egilsstaðir, which is the largest town in East Iceland. Most visitors drive through Egilsstaðir when visiting this part of the country.

How to Get to SaenautaselTo reach Sænatuasel, you can have to drive for a short distance on F907. For those that have listened to my Ultimate Guide for Renting a Car in Iceland episode, you know that you need a 4×4 vehicle that is insured for F-roads to drive on them. If you have not checked out that episode, I highly recommend that you do. I packed it with all the info you need to make an informed decision about which kind of car to rent for your adventure in Iceland.

Renting a car in Iceland can get quite expensive during the summer months because the demand jumps up. You can use my code Iceland10 when you book with Go Car Rental Iceland to save 10% on your full cost. Also, if the company is running any promotional % on their site that is higher than the 10% from my code, they will match whatever that that % is when you use my code. I recieve a small commission for those who inputs my code, so your usage of iceland10 helps to support All Things Iceland and the creation of episodes like this.

Sænautasel offers an untouched slice of Icelandic heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a literary enthusiast, or simply in search of beauty and serenity, Sænautasel promises an experience like no other. If it fits into the time you have in Iceland, I hope you check it out.

Random Fact of the EpisodeOne awesome random fact is that it’s said Halldór Laxness, Iceland’s only Nobel laureate was deeply inspired by the life and struggles of the people that lived at Sænautasel that this place inspired him when he wrote “Sjálfstætt fólk – Independent People”.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeSænautasel literally means a place to call home by a lake called Sænaut. It is said to be a huge monster that is sort of like a whale. It is said to be somewhat friendly. One funny story I read is that people used to ride on them back in the day during summertime. Maybe when you visit you might spot one.

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If you plan to visit Iceland in June, this information will help you to know what to expect when traveling during this month. That includes road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during that month, some tips on driving in that time, top activities, and events that happen annually during this month.

Review of the All Things Iceland Podcast

Jewells is truly a gem!! This podcast provides such great information for those who are planning a visit to Iceland and for those who are intrigued but haven’t planned a trip just yet. Each episode provides the listener with the important FYI and the podcast itself focuses on a multitude of topics from visiting during a specific month to historical information about Iceland. I’ve always wanted to visit Iceland and after seeing Jewells in a documentary I started following her on instagram and was so happy to find out that she had a podcast!! I listened to a handful of episodes and decided I couldn’t wait any longer and so earlier this week I booked my first solo trip to Iceland and will be visiting in about 6 weeks (first week in October). It is evident that Jewells loves the country and wants to provide potential visitors with relevant and helpful information so that others enjoy the beauty and wonder of the land of fire and ice. Thank you Jewells for all that you do!

Dr. Marysia

Weather in Iceland in JuneJune in Iceland marks the beginning of summer, although the term “summer” can be a bit misleading for those from warmer climes. The average temperature ranges from 9°C to 15°C (48°F to 59°F), but it can occasionally reach 20°C (68°F). Coastal areas, especially in the North, can still feel chilly due to the cold sea breeze. Rain is possible, but June is generally one of the drier months.

Day Light Hours in JuneOne of the most magical aspects of Iceland in June is the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun. Around the summer solstice (June 21), the sun barely sets. The sky remains light throughout the night, providing a unique and ethereal experience for visitors.

June 1st – 20 hours and 6 minutes

June 15th– 21 hours and 2 minutes

June 30th – 20 hours and 54 minutes

Explore Iceland on Your Own in JuneGo Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

What to pack/wear during Iceland in June Layers: Icelandic weather is known for its unpredictability. It’s best to layer up to be prepared for any scenario. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating layer like fleece, and top it off with a windproof and waterproof outer layer. * Footwear: Waterproof and sturdy hiking boots are essential if you plan on exploring the outdoors. * Accessories*: Even in summer, gloves, scarves, and a warm hat can come in handy. Also, don’t forget sunglasses – the low-lying sun can be quite intense, especially during the evenings.

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland during JuneThe primary ring road (Route 1) that circles the country is typically clear and in good condition in June. Many of the highland roads, which are often closed during winter, begin to open in June, although some might remain inaccessible until July. It’s essential to check the current road conditions on the official Icelandic Road website (road.is and safetravel.is) before heading out. Always remember to drive cautiously, especially on gravel roads or unfamiliar terrains.

One thing to keep in mind when driving during summer is that Icelandic sheep are grazing freely in many parts of the country. They can cross the roads without notice, so please keep an eye out for them and slow down if you see them near the road.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in June Accessibility: As more roads open, June offers a great opportunity to explore both the popular sites and the hidden gems of the Icelandic highlands. * Wildlife: This is the prime time for bird watching, especially puffins, which nest along the coast. You also stand a good chance of spotting whales and seals. * Lush Landscapes: With snow melting away, the landscapes burst into life. Expect vibrant green fields, cascading waterfalls, and blooming wildflowers. * 24-hour bright days*: You can enjoy adventures any part of the day during this month, especially if the weather is decent

Top Activities to Do in June in Iceland1. Golden Circle Tour: Experience Iceland’s iconic sights including Geysir, Gullfoss waterfall, and Thingvellir National Park. 2. Midnight Sun Tours: Take advantage of the endless daylight by embarking on evening or night tours. Some companies offer midnight sun glacier hikes or late-night horseback rides. 3. Whale Watching: Husavik in the North is the whale-watching capital. Spot minke, humpback, and even blue whales. 4. Puffin Watching: Visit islands like Vestmannaeyjar or coastal areas like Dyrhólaey to observe these charming birds. 5. Explore the Highlands: Visit Landmannalaugar with its geothermal springs or trek in the lush Þórsmörk valley.

Grab My Iceland Map to Make Planning Your Iceland Trip Easier

If you want even more recommendations on amazing things to do, I have compiled over 200 awesome places, activities, accommodations and more in My Iceland Map. If you decide to get full access to it, you will also receive all of the pre-set itineraries I have made. Those itineraries include a 10-day epic Summer Ring Road Adventure, a 3-day South Coast Adventure, The Famous Golden Circle Route, and a Reykjanes Peninsula Day trip itinerary.

Additionally, if I make any updates to the map, such as new places, you will get those updates too. I am continuously adding new places. You get all of that for just $49. I launched my map last month and people have already been telling me how helpful it has been for them as they plan their adventure here. The link to grab my Iceland Map is in the show notes on my website for this episode or you can go to rexby.com/jewells/Iceland.

June Events and Holidays in Iceland National Day (June 17th): Celebrates Iceland’s declaration of independence from Denmark in 1944. Expect parades, concerts, and festivities throughout the country, especially in Reykjavik. * Viking Festival*: In the town of Hafnarfjordur, there’s a yearly Viking festival where visitors can experience Viking culture through reenactments, crafts, music, and more.

June is an enchanting time to visit Iceland. With long days, diverse activities, and relatively mild weather, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural events.

Random Fact of the EpisodeI moved to Iceland in June of 2016 and I started the All Things Iceland podcast in June of 2018. Also, my birthday is in June, so this is a big month for me in a lot of ways.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeJúní – June

Remember to use my code iceland10 with Go Car Rental Iceland to save 10% on your full rental car cost, and iceland7 to save 7% on your camper van rental with Go Campers, plus two free duvets.

Previous Episodes About Months in Iceland* January in Iceland * February in Iceland * March in Iceland * April in Iceland * May in Iceland

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Over the last 7 years of living in Iceland, I've had the pleasure of exploring and sharing about every region of this amazing country of fire and ice.

The adventures to remote hidden gems in the highlands, raw nature that has blown my mind, geothermal hot pools to relax in, and delicious food that excited my taste buds have given you a glimpse into what this country has to offer. An Easy Iceland Trip Planning Tool To make planning your adventure even easier, I have put together a map of over 200 of my favorite places, activities, accommodations, restaurants, and more for you to use.

There are itineraries, travel tips, the ability to book hour-long video trip planning calls with me, and personalized itineraries that I can make based on your preferences via this guide.

Here is the link to my latest Iceland trip planning tool.

Save 30% for the next 48 Hours To kick off the launch of this epic planning resource, I'm sharing a 30% discount for full access to my guide which is active for the next 48 hours. Use the code "save30".

Out of the first 100 people that purchase full access to the guide or any of my itineraries (pre-made or personalized), I will randomly choose 3 people to get a free hour-long video planning session with me so you can be fully prepared for your trip. For an extra entry in the giveaway write "Iceland" in the comments of this video. Share This Post Facebook Email Twitter Let's Be Social

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Some of you might have heard that we had another volcanic eruption that started last week. Well, to be fair it is a continuation of eruptions that have been happening the last couple of years on the Reykjanes Peninsula. We’ve now experienced three volcanic eruptions three years in a row. All of them are being labeled as “tourist” eruptions because they can be visited, and they pose no harm to important infrastructure or towns. I plan to share a brief update about the eruption and what we know so far. If other significant changes happen, I will for sure publish more information. How This Volcanic Eruption is like the Ones in 2021 & 2022 Similar to the other eruptions in 2021 and 2022, we experienced many earthquakes before any lava was seen. There were somewhere around 10,000 earthquakes reported and the largest of those was on Sunday, July 9th, which was classified as an M5.2. It was felt across the country, which is incredible. I distinctly remember feeling it. I jumped out of bed and said “the eruption is coming!” Well, the eruption started on July 10th at 4:40 PM not far from the previous ones in the last couple of years. It’s a fissure eruption and scientist have stated that these types of eruptions are normally most powerful at the beginning and then taper off before ending. However, no one knows how long this one will last. Maybe it is just getting started or maybe it is soon to finish. I know many people hope for the first option, but I like to manage expectations. They are saying this eruption is much stronger than the other two so that is giving some people a glimmer of hope that it will continue for quite some time.

How to Visit The Latest Volcanic Eruption One fascinating thing about the location of this eruption is that it is in a flatter area. Granted, there is a lot of lava rock, moss, and rugged terrain but you don’t have to hike up steep inclines to get there. The catch though is that you do have to walk quite far. Currently, it is a 20 km or 12.4 mile hike round trip from the designated parking lot to the volcano site. That does not include time at the site watching the eruption. You can expect to take between 3 to 4 hours roundtrip to walk there. You might be there an additional hour, or more, depending on how long you want to be there. Needless to say, it would be a long day of exploring. There are 4x4 roads in this area but only authorized vehicles are allowed to drive there now because of safety reasons. Dangerous Wildfires Caused by the Volcanic Eruption It’s interesting to me that the amazing weather we’ve been having lately has played a role in the volcano site being potentially dangerous for visitors. We’ve had bright, sunny days with relatively warm temperatures for over a week and a half (sort of unheard of in Iceland), and due to that the moss near the eruption is very dry. Authorities have been working around the clock to put out wildfires from the moss catching fire due to the hot lava. Unfavorable wind conditions resulted in heinous gases being pushed in the direction of the walking path and all the way to the parking lot. People were inhaling the gases and not feeling well. Bringing a gas mask is a great idea but just know that it is best to go on a day where the wind is pushing the pollution away from you. Due to the wildfires and people at the volcano site acting foolish by getting too close to molten hot lava, authorities closed the site for 4-days until the conditions were better. So, from July 13th until the 17th (which is the same day I am recording this episode) access to the volcano site was prohibited. Alternative Ways to See the Volanic Eruption in Iceland

I did not go straight to the volcano when it erupted because I wanted to see what authorities had to say about the conditions. Also, it takes around 4 hours of walking to get there, and I’ve had other projects that I needed to work on.

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If you plan to visit Iceland in May, this information will help you to know what to expect when traveling during this month.

That includes road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during that month, some tips on driving in that time, top activities, and events that happen annually during this month. Praise for the All Things Iceland Podcast

Jewells provides the best information about visiting and the local culture in Iceland. Great travel trips—both must know and little-known facts. I did not know where to start when I planned our 9-day ring road trip, and I am really glad I found this podcast. Forget the guidebooks, listen to this podcast instead!

Share from the US Book an Iceland Video Trip Planning Call with Me The other is that if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link.

Weather During May in Iceland Iceland's weather in May is typically mild, but the variability is something you should always prepare for. The average temperature ranges from 4-10°C (40-50°F). There's a noticeable uptick in the weather around this time, as it transitions from the icy clutches of winter into the softer breezes of spring. Rain is always a possibility in Iceland, so you should expect a few showers during your visit.

While it doesn’t normally snow during May, we did have some hail showers last month. Day Light Hours to Expect in Iceland During May One of the most notable features about Iceland in May is the rapid increase in daylight hours. The sun sets late and rises early, so expect almost 24-hour daylight, a phenomenon known as the 'midnight sun'. This extended daylight offers more time for exploration and enjoying the stunning landscapes of Iceland.

May 1st – 16 hours and 50 minutes

May 15th – 18 hours and 23 minutes

May 31st – 20 hours

What to Wear in May in Iceland Given the unpredictability of the weather, layering is key when packing for Iceland in May. Start with thermal undergarments, then add a layer of warm clothes, such as a fleece jacket or a wool sweater. Make sure to pack waterproof outer layers, like a good-quality rain jacket and pants. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are also essential. Don't forget gloves, a warm hat, and a scarf. On a sunny day, you might even need sunglasses and sunscreen.

My Ultimate Packing Checklist is linked in the show notes and will provide you with everything you need to bring. I recommend following the summer list. Just know that it can be a little chilly during the evening in May, especially in the north, so you will need some layers. Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland in May By May, most roads, including the famous Ring Road that circles the country, are usually clear of snow and ice, making it easier to get around. However, highland roads (F-roads) generally remain closed until late June.

It's always a good idea to check the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration website for up-to-date information. Driving conditions are typically good in May, but always be cautious, as Icelandic weather can change quickly.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in May May is a great time to visit Iceland due to its extended daylight hours, relatively mild weather, and fewer tourists compared to the summer months. The flora begins to bloom, providing stunning backdrops for your photos. Moreover, many migratory birds, including puffins, arrive in Iceland in May, making it a great time for birdwatching. Top Activities to Do in May

Whale Watching: May is a great time for whale watching, with a variety of species active in the surrounding seas. Bird Watching: Visit the cliffs of Látrabjarg and Hornbjarg to see puffins and other migratory birds. Hiking: Take advantage of the long days and mild weather to explore Iceland’s beautiful trails. Popular locations include the Skógafoss Waterfall, Þingvellir National Park, and all along the south coast.

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Wow, it‘s amazing that I have been living in Iceland for seven years! Even though I know this is a decent amount of time, it feels like it i has flown by. So much has changed since I moved here in 2016, and I‘m sharing some of the major changes/transitions that have happened in my life this year. 5th Year All Things Iceland Podcast Anniversary

June is a major month in my life. I was born in this month, I moved to Iceland during this month, and I started the All Things Iceland in June of 2018. The podcast was the start of all of this. When I started it I gave myself a year to be consistent with posting. Thankfully, all of that hard work paid off and I was receiving message from people saying how much they enjoyed the episodes.

I was delighted and surprised that people were listening! There is so much more I want to do with the podcast and I would love to hear the topics that you want to hear on the show. Feel free to send me an email at jewells(at)allthingsiceland(dot)com. Getting Divorced in Iceland after 7 Years Living Here One major shift in my life over the last year was that Gunnar and I broke up. In Iceland, getting divorced takes a while to be finalized. After filing for separation, you have to wait six months before you can file the final paperwork for the divorce to be done.

Our divorce will be finalized this month as well. Seriously, June really does seem to be a big month in my life. It was not an easy decision to choose to do that. It certainly was not one that either of us took lightly. In the end it felt like the right decision. Being single in Iceland is foreign to me and this new chapter is one that is helping me to grow in many ways. Selling the Apartment

We had an apartment that we owned together and selling that was a major part of the breakup process. In 2021 we bought the place and had it completely renovated. Due to the renovations, we were not able to live in the apartment for six months!

I moved out of the apartment in February of 2023, which means that we only lived there for one year. I loved designing that apartment and it was a little bittersweet to let it go. However, it was best for us to sell it. Funny enough, the people who bought it are an American woman and an Icelandic man. Being Featured on the Geography of Bliss Show

I was stunned and exhilirated when I was asked if I was interested to be featured in Geography of Bliss. It was such a pleasant surprise and I enjoyed every minute of it. Rainn Wilson was a lovely person to hang out with and the production team were awesome. I honestly couldn‘t have had a better experience. Learning Icelandic My Icelandic has definitely improved leaps and bounds over the years. It is still not at the fluency I am aiming for and the good news is that it‘s getting there. Currently, I am doing Siggi‘s self-study course for 3 months. It is helping me to read more regularly, build my vocabulary, and undertsand more of the language on a higher level. Building Resilience

As I have been adjusting to my new life, I felt the need to work on my resilience. Part of that process has been taking Andri Iceland‘s limitless month long program. It helped me to push past some limiting beliefs I had, and to think outside of the box. Random Fact of the Episode It‘s amazing to think that I have 205 episodes of the podcast. That is 41 episodes a year when I divide it by 5. I‘m proud of that and thank you to all of you that have listened over the years. Icelandic Word of the Episode Sjö ára afmæli – 7 year anniversary Share this Post Facebook Email LinkedIn Let's Be Social

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I have exciting news!! On May 18th a show named Geography of Bliss became available on Peacock, NBC’s streaming service. It’s hosted by Rainn Wilson. He is most known for playing Dwight Shrute on the American version of The Office. The show asks which nations are the happiest on Earth, and what it is about these countries that makes their citizens so joyful.

Watch Geography of Bliss on PeacockIceland is the first episode on the show. I am beyond excited and honored to say that I am one of the people featured in the show!

This show was filmed over a year ago, so I have been holding onto this information for so long. It’s nice to finally let the cat out of the bag! During the episode, Rainn and I go on an ísbíltúr or ice cream roadtrip. We talk about what it has been like for me living here and if I plan to stay for the long haul.

There were many things we talked about that do not show up in the episode at all. I totally understand that not everything can be included. I think they did a great job of cutting the whole episode, which I highly recommend that you watch.

One thing I really love is that they included a shot with my sister, me and my mom in the Blue Lagoon hanging out. It was lovely to have my family in there too.

My Former Icelandic HusbandI have to address one topic that I have yet to talk about on here and that is regarding my relationship. If you are not following me on YouTube, Instagram of Facebook, then you probably are not aware that Gunnar and I have decided to divorce.

We were toegther when the show was filmed. Many months later the producers of the show reached out to me during post production to ask for permission to use videos and photos of Gunnar and I as additional footage in the show.

I explained to them that we were splitting up and that it is probably not a good idea to share that content because we are not going to be together. Well, they replied saying they were sorry to hear about my breakup and asked if he would be open to giving his permission for them to use images and photos even though we are going our separate ways. I said I was not sure but can ask. In the end, he did give permission and that was nice of him.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uTP503NEQqg

Let Me Know What You Thought of Geography of BlissIf you watch the show, feel free to let me know via email at jewells(at)allthingsiceland(dot)com or via social media. I would love to hear if you enjoyed it.

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Learn what to expect when traveling to Iceland in April. That includes road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during this month, some tips on driving during this time, top activities, and events that happen annually during this month.

Weather in Iceland in AprilApril marks the transition from winter to spring in Iceland. The weather can be unpredictable, with varying temperatures and frequent changes. The average high temperature is 44 F (6.8 C), and the low temperature is 39 F (3 C).

I always recommend that you pack layers and be prepared for sudden weather shifts, including rain, snow, wind, and occasional sunshine.

Daylight HoursOne of the major advantages of visiting Iceland in April is the lengthening of daylight hours. During the early part of the month, you can enjoy approximately:

April 1st – 13 hours and 31 minutes

On April 15th there are 15 hours and 03 minutes

April 30th – 16 hours and 43 minutes

Road Conditions & Driving in IcelandBecause April is a transitional month road conditions can vary. While main roads are generally accessible, some secondary roads in remote areas may still be closed or have limited access due to lingering snow and ice.

It’s crucial to stay updated on road conditions and weather forecasts by checking reliable sources like the Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration’s website. If you plan on driving, renting a 4×4 vehicle with studded winter tires is recommended for added safety.

It’s a Great Time to Explore in a Car or CampervanGo Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

What to Wear in Iceland in AprilTo stay comfortable during your visit in April, it’s essential to dress in layers. Start with a base layer of thermal clothing, followed by a sweater or fleece, and top it off with a waterproof and windproof outer layer. Don’t forget to bring a hat, gloves, and a sturdy pair of waterproof boots for outdoor activities. It’s also wise to have a waterproof backpack to protect your belongings from unexpected showers.

If you want more specific help with what to pack, grab my FREE ultimate packing checklist for Iceland.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in April April offers a unique blend of winter and spring experiences. Here are a few reasons why it’s an excellent time to visit Iceland:

Fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season, allowing for a more intimate experience.
Witness the transition of landscapes from snow-covered winter wonderlands to budding greenery.
Increased chances of viewing the Northern Lights due to extended darkness during the evenings.
Opportunity to enjoy activities like glacier hiking, ice caving, and snowmobiling before they become inaccessible during the warmer months.
Often slightly warmer

Iceland Events in April1. Aldrei Fór Ég Suður – this is a music festival in the Westfjords that takes place over the long Easter weekend. 2. Children’s Culture Festival – A lovely festival that’s fun for the whole family.

Top Activities to Do in April * Glacier Tours – hiking & climbing * Snowmobile Tours * Fun Road Trips around the country * Bathing in Geothermal Pools * Ice Cave Tours * Northern Lights * Explore Reykjavík * Whale Watching

Learn About the Other Months in Iceland * Iceland in January * Iceland in February * Iceland in March

Random Fact of the Episode The first day of summer in Iceland is in April! Yes, you read that right. I explain in the podcast episode why that is the case.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeApríl – April in English

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I had the honor of interviewing Chief Phil Fontaine, an Indigenous Canadian leader, and former National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations. He is best known for playing a central role in raising awareness about residential schools in Canada and pushing for a Federal and Papal apology in 2008 and 2022. Additionally, he helped to get a repudiation of the Discovery Doctrine from Pope Francis about a month ago on March 30th, 2023.

The Manitoba area is where hundreds of Icelanders immigrated to in the 1800s. During the interview, we talked about his historical work and “West Icelanders” (what Icelanders are called who immigrated to the West) who settled in Gimli, and surrounding areas. He shared some fascinating insight about the community and their interactions with the indigenous community, who have been living all over Canada before any Europeans immigrated there.

Learn More about Chief Phil Fontaine here.

Thank You to the National Research Council of CanadaThis episode was sponsored using funds from the Social Sciences & Humanities Research Council of Canada.

A special thank you to L.K. Bertram for connecting me with Chief Phil for this dynamic, educational, and insightful conversation.

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Learn all about what to expect when traveling in Iceland during March. Road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during that month, some tips on driving in that time, top activities, and events that happen annually during that month.

Also, I want to say thank you to some people who recently left reviews for the podcast durng the month of March of 2023.

Reviews of the All Things Iceland Podcast

We are planning a trip to Iceland this June. Jewell’s Podcast has been a tremendous wealth of information on Iceland, what to do in Iceland and what to expect. I am embarrassed I have not reviewed it before as I have even listening to all the episodes and the information is pertinent and fun!

ChicagoRunner 123456789 from the United States

Such a great resource for trip planning. And really interesting to learn more about the culture too!

sarahintampa from the United States

Weather During March In IcelandMarch is still considered winter in Iceland, so you can expect cold temperatures with an average temperature of 0°C (32°F) but the range is often -2°C (around 28 Fahrenheit) and 3.3°C (around 38 Fahrenheit. In previous years it has also the wettest month of the year, so it’s important to pack waterproof clothing.

Day Light Hours in MarchDuring March, Iceland experiences around 12 hours of daylight. The days are getting longer, and the sun rises around 7:30 AM and sets around 6 PM. Here are the hours you can expect from the beginning of the month vs the end.

March 1st – 10 hours and 9 minutes

March 16th – 11 hours and 47 minutes

March 31st – 13 hours and 25 minutes

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland During MarchRoad conditions in Iceland can be unpredictable, especially during winter. It’s important to check the weather and road conditions before setting out on a road trip.

While you don’t have to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle, some people do so because you have more control over the car due the roads potentially being slippery and icy. Additionally, rental car companies here keep the nail tires on cars during March, so that helps provide extra traction on slippery roads.

While there way more daylight during this time of the year than other winter months, they are still limited, so it’s important to plan your driving routes accordingly.

If you decide to drive by yourself don’t forget to check the official websites road.is and safetravel.is before heading out to see if there are any weather warnings or road closures that might impact your trip.

Drive Yourself Around Iceland on a DiscountGo Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

What to Wear in Iceland During MarchBecause this is a wintery month that can still be quite cold, make sure you bring a parka and necessary layers. Make sure to grab my free Iceland Packing Checklist. There is a separate list in it for winter and for summer.

You can expect possible snow weather warnings, icy conditions (so bring your micro spikes), windy conditions (which is normal all year here), and of course some precipitations. We do have days where it is sunny and bright, but the cold is still present, so dressing accordingly will keep you warm and dry.

It’s important to dress in layers and bring warm, waterproof clothing. You should also pack sturdy hiking boots with good traction, as there may still be snow and ice on the ground.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in MarchMarch is a great time to visit Iceland if you’re looking to avoid the crowds of the peak tourist season. Plus, with the snow and ice, Iceland’s stunning landscapes become even more breathtaking.

You can also catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights, which are still visible during this time. We’ve had spectacular northern lights this year but just remember that it is not guaranteed that you will see them.

Check out my episode about the Northern Lights to give yourself the best opportunity to see them while visiting.

Top Activities to Do in MarchMarch is the last month for all the winter activities, such as exploring ice caves and seeing the Northern Lights. To be fair, you can potentially see them in April, but the chances are so much slimmer due to longer and brighter days.

Northern Lights
Ice Cave Tours
Glacier Tours – hiking & climbing
Snowmobile Tours
Skiing & Snowboarding
- Bláafjöll mountain near Reykjavík
- Troll Peninsula
Fun Winter Road Trips
Bathing in Geothermal Pools

March Events in Iceland1. National Beer Day – March 1st * + Beer in Iceland was illegal for about 70 years and it became legal again on March 1st, 1989. That day has been dubbed Bjórdagur or Beer Day.

The Food and Fun festival
- Awesome chefs from different countries come to Iceland to cook up delicious meals in well-known restaurants in Reykjavík. It’s a fun way to try out new dishes.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAccording to Icelandic meteorologist Trausti Jónsson, March of 2023 was by far the coldest it has been, on average, this century. We had many days of extremely frigid temperatures in the negatives.

These frigid temperatures and storms resulted in tourists traveling during this time needing help because they were weather clogged. Basically, they had trouble seeing on the road or pulled over because the wind was too much for them to drive. There was a yellow warning and people still decided to drive. The Icelandic Search & Rescue team had to help around 40-50 cars one night due to people not heeding the warning.

In much happier news, The Golden Plover, or Lóa as it is called in Icelandic, was spotted in late March. This bird is said to sing away the snow and mean that spring is on the way.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeMars – march

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta eða lesa og sjáumst fljótlega.

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As I write this we are still full on in winter in Iceland, but I think it’s imperative to share some essential trip-planning tips for summer here. Summer is the high season and now that people are traveling more, I’m seeing that the number of people planning to come during this time is increasing dramatically.

Some of you might not know but I do one-to-one video consultation calls with people planning their trips to Iceland. They are one hour long and recently I have been chatting with people who are coming this summer. While the consultation calls are personalized according to what the person wants to do and see, I noticed there are some common things to know that could be helpful for everyone planning to visit during peak season.

What is Discussed in this Post1. What to book immediately For Your Summer Trip to Iceland 2. Travel Tips for Driving Around the Country 3. Iceland’s Magnificent & Disruptive Midnight Sun 4. How to Beat Summer Crowds in Iceland 5. What to know if you plan to hike in the Icelandic Highlands 6. The Best Places to See Puffins and Whales in Iceland 7. Iceland’s Summer Events Worth Attending 8. What to Pack for a Summer Adventure in Iceland

Book an Iceland Trip Planning Call with MeBefore I jump into my tips, if you’re interested in getting personalized trip planning advice from me, you can book me for a consultation via this link.

I’m always delighted to hear at the end of the video call that the consultation has been so helpful. One review of this service I provide is from Riana D, who wrote,

“Our conversation with Jewells made a distant and unfamiliar place that was foreign to us, Iceland, seem familiar and practical. She helped design a trip that was exciting to me, an active young adult, and accessible to my travel partner- my retired mother! I particularly recommend taking advantage of her rental car discount code.”

Riana D

Thank you for the review, Riana D. The rental car code she is referring to is for Go Car Rental Iceland. By using “Iceland10”, you can save 10% on you full rental car cost from a local and amazing car rental company. This especially comes in handy during summer because the cost of rental cars can double when compared to winter due to high demand.

Book These Things in Iceland Right Immediately* AccommodationsAfter you have gotten your flight tickets, it’s imperative that you get your accommodations settled right away. Some people are buying their flight tickets 6 months ahead of when they travel but are waiting to book accommodations. The issue with that is accommodations are filling up quickly.

Before the start of 2023, 70% of accommodations in Iceland were booked for summertime (June – August). A lot of construction is happening here to build more accommodations, but it’s been hard to keep up with the demand of the number of travelers.

Rental CarWhile you have a little more leeway with your rental car, I recommend getting that squared away as well. Many travelers, like yourself, want the best bang for their buck and the earlier you get your rental car, the more choices you have.

For instance, smaller 2WD cars cost less and are great for driving around the country during the summer, especially if you just plan to be on the ring road. Those are the first cars to get snagged. Also, the nicer 4×4 cars for the highlands get snagged too.

Camping SitesIf you’re planning to use a camper van or to camp in a tent, there are some camp sites that sell out because they are so popular. Mainly, the ones in the south of the country. It’s good to map out what places you plan to visit and the campsites nearby so you can book them in advance as well.
Certain Tours & ExperiencesThankfully, there are not a lot of tours and experiences that you don’t have to book ahead of time but are a few that I recommend that you do.

The Blue Lagoon during summer usually has no reservation available once you hit the summer months. It’s not to say that some people might pull out of their reservation and space opens but it’s better to err on the side of caution and book that, if you plan to go. Glacier walks and whale watching tours also seem to get booked up quickly too.

Driving Around Iceland Travel TipsI plan to do a whole episode about driving times to popular attractions and worthwhile locations in Iceland, but I do want to give some tips about driving around the whole country. First, it takes about 17 hours if you want to drive just around the ring road of the country. That time is if you never stopped the car, which is obviously not something that I recommend doing.

Many people assume that since Iceland is a small country, they can just drive around it in a couple of days. If you only have up to 5 days and you drive around the ring road on your trip, you miss out on seeing and doing a lot. I usually recommend at least 7 days but 10 is great because you can fit in things like glacier walks, zipping around in a boat in a glacier lagoon, enjoying spas, going into the highlands and more.

I recently had one consultation where the person is planning to drive around Iceland in 6 days. While that is tight, I helped them find a solution that makes is doable. If you find yourself in a similar situation, it’s great to have another driver with you so you can switch off when one person gets tired.

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Iceland’s Magnificent & Disruptive Midnight SunThe midnight sun makes driving around during this time enjoyable because the sky is bright all day long. 24-hour daylight means we literally do not have dark evenings, which is so cool. I highly recommend having an eye mask. Many visitors struggle with sleeping even though they are in an accommodation with black out curtains.

You might even need to bring melatonin because you can not buy it in Icelandic pharmacies.

How to Beat the Summer Crowds in IcelandReykjavík and the south coast will be the most crowded places during the peak summer months. One way to beat the crowds is to get there very early in the morning or super late at night.

I know that doesn’t go over so well with people who want to sleep but that is the reality of the situation.

I’m not saying to skip any of these places, but I am saying to leave space on your trip to explore lesser visited areas that are equally as nice. Some of those places include the Westman Islands, which is in the south but you have to take a ferry to get there, the North, West Iceland, the West fjords, East Iceland, and the highlands.

Basically any other place than the South Iceland is less crowded. It’s not that no one will be in those places but it’s certainly not at the same scale regarding number of people in the south.

Venturing into the Highlands – huts, paths, drivingIf you had a chance to listen to my episode about my “Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland’, then you probably are aware of F-roads and so on. If not, please check that out.

For this episode, I want to talk a little about venturing into the highlands as a hiker. If you plan to do multi-day hikes and want to stay in a hut, I highly recommend booking those now. The tour companies usually snatch them up for their groups. I looked at the site today, and you can find it here. There are some days left in June, July and August but not many.

If you want to hike in Iceland but are not sure which one to choose, here are some ideas. The Laugavegur hike is the most popular one. It takes most people 3-4 days. They either sleep in huts or tents. If you don’t want the hassle of booking your own hut and want a guide, there are plenty of tour companies offering services.

The Famous Laugavegur Trail
Fimmvörðuháls
The Askja Trail
The Best Place to See Puffins & Whales During Summer in IcelandIf you are planning to visit the Westfjords during summer, I highly recommend going to see puffins in Látrabjarg. I have been to many different places to see them, including Borgarfjörður Eystri in the Eastfjords and the westman islands, and Látrabjarg is still the best place I have experienced them. Also, taking a boat out to see puffins is fun too.

Seeing whales during this time of year is spectacular. I especially like to do it in Húsavík in North Iceland but there are great whale watching opportunities in Reykjavík as well.

Icelandic Summer Events Worth AttendingThe two of the biggest events of the summer are fun for everyone involved and they both happen during August.

Reykjavík Pride – Over the course of some days, several events are happening that help to raise awareness and better understanding about the LGBTQ+ community. The biggest part of the festivities is the Pride Parade, which is awesome. Icelanders bring their family members of all ages to walk in the parade and sing along. After the parade, there are concerts and lots of partying.

Menningarnótt (Culture Night) –Downtown Reykjavík is shutdown and there is one big party going on. There are bands playing, lots of activities, food and fun happening all around. At the end of the night, there are fireworks!

What to Wear During Summer in IcelandRegardless of the season, layers is always key to staying warm and dry in Iceland. My free packing checklist for Iceland has a separate list for summer and winter.

Even though the average high temperature does not normally go above 60 degrees Fahrenheit in Iceland, it can feel much warmer if it is not cloudy. Also, no cloud coverage means you might get burned, so make sure to pack your sunscreen and sun glasses.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAuthorities plan to install cameras at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. Starting from April 1st, they will test them for two months and then start collecting money to park there on June 1st. The price will be 1000 ISK for a regular passenger car. If you visit both Jökulsárlón and Skaftafell in the same 24-hour period, you get a 50% discount.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeMikilvægur – essential

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I have another fantastic interview to share with you this month. This time around it’s with Haraldur Thorleifsson or “Halli”, as he likes to be called. Halli was born and raised in Iceland and has achieved some incredible things, such as building a successful design company and selling it to Twitter.

In 2022, he was named Person of the Year in Iceland, was awarded the Order of the Falcon (the highest honor one can receive in the country), and he has lived in many cool places around the world. You can learn more about his accolades on his personal website.

Ramp Up Iceland – Increasing Wheelchair Accessibility in the CountryWhile I find all those things to be interesting, what intrigued me the most is the work that Halli is doing to provide ramp access across Iceland for those who are in wheelchairs, have a stroller, or just find that a ramp is easier for them to walk up than stairs. The project is called Ramp Up Iceland or Römpum Upp Ísland.

For updates about the project in English, click here.

During the interview, Halli and I talk about all of this and the fact that he has muscular dystrophy. The CDC describes muscular dystrophy as,

a group of muscle diseases caused by mutations in a person’s genes. Over time, muscle weakness decreases mobility, making everyday tasks difficult.”

Please note that this interview was conducted in Halli’s apartment in February 2023 so the sound quality will be different than what you hear right now. Also, this interview was recorded before Halli and Elon Musk had a huge argument on Twitter. During the back and forth, Elon embarrassed himself and eventually had to apologize to Halli.

If you use Twitter, I highly recommend following Halli there. He is very active on that channel and shares quite a bit.

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This is the third and last episode I am publishing for what I dubbed “Greenland Week” on the podcast. As mentioned in previous episodes, Greenland and Iceland have some interesting things in common. Also, Iceland is only one of two places in the world where you can fly directly to Greenland, which gives you a unique opportunity to explore both places.

During this interview with the lovely and multi-talented Jospeha, we talk about what it was like for her growing up in Greenland, as well as her experience living in Iceland and Denmark.

Josepha is a fantastic photographer, mask dancer, and knowledgeable guide. In fact, she has guided all over Greenland and provides some insight on what to see and do in the country.

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Other Episodes about Greenland* From Iceland to Greenland: An Epic Adventure for Nature Lovers * Reclaiming Greenlandic Culture – Interview with Aka Hansen

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Before arriving in Greenland on February of 2023, I had no idea that I would be interviewing Aka Hansen. I was fortunate to meet her while she was doing a photo shoot with a mutual friend in a location where I happen to also be creating content. When I heard about the activism work that she does in Greenland, I instantly knew that I wanted to interview her on the podcast. Her warm energy, beautiful traditional tattoos, and passion for her work helped me to gain insight into Greenlandic society.

During our more than one-hour-long chat, she shares how detrimental Danish colonization has been on Greenlandic society. Along with others, she is working to reclaim the Inuit culture in Greenland that had been banned and/or heavily discouraged for 300 hundred years.

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Other Episodes about Greenland* From Iceland to Greenland: An Epic Adventure for Nature Lovers

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I have a special series of episodes that I’ll be sharing this week about Greenland! In fact, I am calling it Greenland week because, inclusive of this episode, I have two other episodes that I’ll post. You might be wondering why I am sharing about Greenland when I normally talk about Iceland and the answer is simple. Both countries have amazing nature, and you can get directly to Greenland from Iceland in a short period of time.

So, if you have ever wanted to visit Greenland or you are intrigued about the idea of going there, you are in for a treat this week. I visited Nuuk, Greenland, which is the capital of the country, in mid-February of this year and had an amazing time. I visited East Greenland, specifically Kulusuk, Tasiilaq, and the interior of the country back in 2018 for 9-days.

That was an incredible experience that made me curious about Nuuk because East Greenland is like stepping back in time. I consider it a time capsule that gives you a glimpse into a much simpler way of living. Plus, the towns are quite small. For example, around 200 people live in Kulusuk. On the other hand, Nuuk is a modern city that kind of made me feel like I was back in Iceland.

How this Episode about Greenland is Set UpThe way I have set this episode up is that I will share some insight about Iceland vs Greenland. Not in a competitive way but more so about each destination and their unique aspects. You’ll find that they have some things in common. After that, I will share my experience in Nuuk and the things I was so fortunate to do. This can give you an idea of things to enjoy if you decide to travel there.

What is Greenland Week?The two other episodes about Greenland are interviews I did with two awesome women. One is Aká, a Greenlandic activist working to reclaim the cultural in Greenland after the country had been colonized by the Danish for hundreds of years. She is also a strong advocate of Greenland becoming an independent country. Currently, it is considered a district of Denmark.

The other interview is with Josepha, she is a Greenlander that grew up in Nuuk, and has lived in Denmark and Iceland. She’s multi-talented and has guided all over Greenland. She shares her insight about fun things to do there, mask dancing (a tradition) that Greenlandic people have been reincorporating back into their culture, and more.

Before jumping into differences & similarities of Iceland and Greenland, I would like to thank the sponsors of this episode, which are Visit Greenland and Visit Nuuk.

A special shout out to Josepha, who coordinated this whole trip for me. I highly recommend following her on Instagram, where she is child_of_the_arctic

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Iceland vs GreenlandLand Mass of Each Country* Iceland – 103,000 square kilometers (39,768.5 square miles) * Greenland – 2.16 million square kilometers (836,330 miles) * Both are islands but Greenland is considered the largest island in the world.

Land mass of each capital area* Reykjavik – 273 square kilometers (105 square miles) * Nuuk – 690 square kilometers (about 266 square miles)

Ice coverage in Iceland & Greenland* Over 80% of Greenland in ice while only about 11% of Iceland is covered in ice. Similar to Greenland, about 80% of Iceland is uninhabited. The highlands of Iceland is what makes up most of that uninhabited land.

Population in the whole country* Iceland – 387,800 (as of January 20th, 2023) * Greenland – 56,500 people.

Population in Each Capital * Nuuk has 19,261 in the capital area * Reykjavik has 245,000 people in the capital area (about two thirds of the country). There are 4 times as many people living in Reykjavik than in the whole of Greenland

Geographical Location* While Greenland is technically on the North American continent, meaning the North American tectonic plate, it has been politically and culturally associated with Europe for over 1,000 years. About two thirds of Greenland lies within the Artic Circle. Nuuk is about 240 kilometers (149 miles) south of the Artic Circle. * Iceland straddles the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The Mid-Atlantic Ridge, which is the world’s largest

AnimalsIceland

Whales
Arctic foxes
Birds
Horses
Sheep
Fish
Seals
Arctic reindeer
Icelandic sheep dog

Greenland

Musk ox
Arctic hare
Walrus
Arctic fox
Arctic wolf
Arctic reindeer
Greenland dog
Sheep
Seals
Whales
Caribou
Greenland shark
Birds

Languages Spoken* Greenland + Greenlandic, Danish, English * Iceland + Icelandic, English and you might see some signs in Polish

Weather in Winter and SummerIceland

Summer in Iceland can range from 5 degrees Celsius (41 Fahrenheit) to 20 degrees Celsius. To be fair, the average high is more like 16 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit)
The average winter temperatures here can be from -5 (23 Fahrenheit) upwards to +5 degrees Celsius (41 Fahrenheit)

Greenland

Greenlandic summers are a little cooler than Iceland. It’s expected that the temperatures will not go above 10 degrees Celsius. However, it can and has happened that the temperatures went upwards of 70 degrees Fahrenheit there. That is a rare occurrence so don’t bank on that happening.
During winter, the temperatures can drop down to -20 degrees Celsius (-4 degree Fahrenheit) or even lower. Layering up is serious business in Greenland and my lopapeysa, along with my layering system came in handy. Also, handwarmers were a must for me on my trip and I’m pretty sure they kept my fingers from falling off.

Day Light HoursGreenland & Iceland

Similar to Iceland, winter means long, dark days in Greenland. The shortest day is about 4 hours and 22 minutes in December
During the summer, they also have the midnight sun. Every May 25th to July 25th, the sun stays visible throughout the day and evening. The longest day is June 21st, or the summer solstice and

Main Industries in Iceland and GreenlandIceland

Tourism, aluminum smelting and fisheries

Greenland

Fishing

InsectsFor the most part, you don’t have to worry that much about insects in Iceland. Recently, we have had some issues with small biting flies in the country during summer and you will for sure need a fly net in the Mývatn in north Iceland but that is pretty much it.

Greenland, on the other hand, is known for its arctic mosquitos that show up in abundance during June and July. A mosquito net is a must and strong repellent.

CurrencyIn Greenland, the currency is the Danish Krone, while in Iceland, the currency is the Icelandic Kronur

Transportation – Getting between TownsGreenland

While there are plenty of roads to drive on in Nuuk, there are no roads that connect towns in Greenland
Helicopter, plane, boat

Iceland

You can easily drive between towns in Iceland

Both Ruled by the Danish* Denmark ruled Greenland as a colony for over 300 years. While it is no longer considered a colony, it is very much part of the Danish kingdom, as I mentioned earlier. * Iceland was ruled by Denmark from 1380 to 1944, which is over 500 years. I have spoken about this in other episodes.

My trip to Nuuk, Greenland I feel so fortunate to have experienced Nuuk last month. After visiting, I just knew that I would like to come back, preferably during the summer. One fascinating thing to point out is that you can only directly fly to Greenland from Denmark or Iceland. Being based in Iceland meant that I am and others who live here or visit, can hop on a plane and be in Greenland within a few hours. Literally, it takes about 3 hours to get to Nuuk from Keflavik international airport.

Originally, I was supposed to arrive in Nuuk on Saturday, February 11th and leave on the 18th. However, there was a terrible windstorm in Iceland that resulted in all flights being cancelled. My flight was then rescheduled for Monday, February 13th but there was also a small storm that led to delays and rescheduled flights. I ended up arriving in Nuuk at 5:00 PM on Valentine’s Day. Due to my schedule back in Iceland, I had to keep the departure day of the 18th on a flight that left at 9:00 in the morning.

That left me with 3 days to pack in as much activity as I could, and I definitely did that!

The plane had about 37 seats, so definitely not a large aircraft. I thought it was so cool to see the snow-covered mountains, and glacier from the window of the plane. When I left Iceland, there was no snow on the ground, so it was a stark difference to arrive in Nuuk, where there was a thick layer of snow everywhere.

When you get off the plane, you walk from the aircraft to the terminal building. It was -15 degrees Fahrenheit, so I could feel the cold right away but it was refreshing. Plus, I was totally prepared. Because this is such a small airport, and there weren’t many people on the plane, it was funny to see my luggage come out on what I think is the smallest luggage conveyor belt I’ve ever encountered.

Accommodations in GreenlandI stayed at the Hotel Aurora, a lovely hotel in Nuuk that leans into the theme of the northern lights. During the day, the building has the color of the aurora visible (blue, green and purple). The room included a nice sized bathroom, a queen-sized bed, and a loft area with another big bed. That space could work well for four adults or a family. They have complimentary breakfast every day as well. I informed them that I was plant-based and they told me it was more than fine for me to store some food in their fridge, if I wanted to.

After arriving to my hotel at about 6 PM, I changed my clothes and ran out to meet Josepha and her family for dinner at Killut. To be fair, I did eat before I went over there because they didn’t have any plant-based items on the menu for their Valentine’s Day dinner, but I still enjoyed the company.

The next day, I decided to have breakfast at Pascucci, a restaurant in Nuuk City Center, which is a mall in the downtown Nuuk area. I had the vegan falafel salad and it was so good! I liked the vegan food there so much that I ended up going there a few times during my stay.

Eating Plant-Based (Vegan) Meals While in Nuuk, GreenlandI also shopped in the food markets and was pleasantly surprised to see a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and so on like in Iceland. I wasn’t lacking that much for choice and I instantly felt very comfortable because I knew there were things I could eat. Now, I didn’t have a place to cook things, so I ate a lot of raw veggies, salads, nuts, and other food that I brought with me. I had packed protein shakes, and meals from Huel, a vegan food company that makes meals that only need to soak in hot water for 5 minutes before eating.

I know it doesn’t sound it but the food is actually tasty. Because I had been to Greenland before, I knew that it wasn’t the most vegan-friendly place, meaning restaurants don’t have that many vegan options. However, I did just fine with what I brought and when I ate out.

Hot Tub & Spa in NuukAlong with doing the interviews that I spoke about earlier in this episode, I also did some other fun activities.

I had a lovely time at the hot tub and spa run by Inuk Hostel, which is owned by Inuk Travel. They have a hot tub and sauna with an incredible view. I enjoyed soaking in there for part of my afternoon. After the soak, I ate at their café, which also has gorgeous views of the water and snow-covered mountains in the distance. Following that experience, I was fortunate to get a driving tour of Nuuk by Magnus, one of the employees at Visit Greenland. He provided some insight on how much Nuuk has changed over the last 30 years.

There is a lot of construction going on there and it’s amazing to see the colorful building sitting on the hillsides. In contrast to that, you also have many new developments. I was surprised to see the number of high-rise buildings. On the evening of my first full day, I interviewed Aká and then went back to Hotel Aurora to prepare for the next day because I was going on a boat trip!

Getting Around Nuuk, GreenlandI have to note that I could have easily walked around Nuuk to many of the locations I wanted to go, but there were a decent amount of times that I took taxis becasue it was cold and I was tired. On average, I paid about $9 to $12 per taxi ride. I didn’t think it was that bad. Food, on the other hand, was way more expensive. There are also public buses, which are more affordable. Just know that you have to pay cash to ride.

For instance, my falafel salad was about $26 I was very full after eating it but it’s a decent amount to pay. Except for what they catch in the sea, all other food in Greenland is imported. I found it really cool to see Icelandic produce being sold in Greenlandic food markets. The price of veggies was expensive too. I easily paid $2.87 for a cucumber! Way less expensive in Iceland.

Boat Trip to Qoornoq IslandMy second full day started out with a boat tour to Qoornoq island with Nuuk Water Taxi. This island was a fishing settlement for many years until the inhabitants were made to leave the island because workers were needed in Nuuk. The settlement was abandoned for many years before the houses were turned into summer homes.

Well, there were some people living on the island but it was mostly orphans that had been sent away for not behaving well. This is at least what the tour guide told us. It had snowed heavily some days before we arrived, so walking around the island was an adventure.

Thankfully, I had on very good winter boots and thick wool socks. They kept my feet warm and dry as we trudged through the sometimes almost knee-deep snow. Our location was the abandoned fish processing building. It is eerily beautiful and there is even a swing inside it that I enjoyed swinging on. After touring the island and getting back on the boat, we stopped by a gorgeous frozen waterfall before heading back to Nuuk.

We didn’t see any whales this time but we did see an incredible eagle. This was my first time getting a good view of an eagle. It was perched on a mountain and at first glance you could easily mistake it for a person because of its size.

Random share – It has happened that small dogs, like chihuahuas, have been snatched up by eagles in Nuuk. Their owners sometimes put jackets on them that have spikes to try and protect their small furry friends from becoming an eagle’s next meal.

I arrived back to Nuuk in late afternoon, and decided to get some food at Pascucci and then head back to the hotel. I ended up having dinner at Josepha’s.

My Last Full Day in NuukMy last full day in Nuuk started with my interview of Jospeha. She has a young child, so we had to find time during the day when her child was at day care to chat. After that, I headed to the art museum and the National Museum to learn more about Greenlandic culture. Both museums are awesome and have incredible archives. I highly recommend both.

One highlight from the art museum for me was seeing the cravings done in the walrus skull and tusks. It was so intricate and beautiful. At the National Museum of Greenland, I especially loved seeing the national outfits on display and the Inuit mummies!

Yes, there are Inuit mummies on display that look so surreal. I could have stayed in the National Museum for hours but I had other activities to do, like filming outside, and grabbing some cool souvenirs for my family at Anori Art.

Meeting a Greenlandic ShamanOne surprise part of my day that made this whole trip even more magical was meeting a Greenlandic Shaman. Her name is Rakel. She explained a bit about her journey to embrace her Shamanic roots, which had been silenced for many years due to colonization. Here is a clip of her talking about her experience.

After that, we went on a drum journey together. In short, a drum journey is when she plays her drum in a rhythmic way that puts the listener in a trance and you have visions. It was fascinating, to say the least, and an experience I will never forget for the rest of my life. Please note, thee were no drugs involved. If going on a drum journey is of interest to you, check out her Instagram and website.

The very last thing I did was meet with my friend Ella. She also grew up in Nuuk. She lived in Iceland for some time and we became friends while working at the same company in Reykjavik. It was a lovely way to finish the evening.

Special Thanks to Visit Greenland & Visit Nuuk Thank you again to Visit Greenland and Visit Nuuk for sponsoring this adventure and podcast episode.

Random Fact of the EpisodeAll the cities have old Danish names that was used before, and the Danish name for Nuuk is Godthåb (the good hope, which is why when you fly to Nuuk the code for the city is GOH).

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeGrænland

Greenlandic Word of the Episode Inuit – plural

Inuk – singular

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Learn all about what to expect when traveling in Iceland during February. Road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during that month, some tips on driving in that time, top activities, and events that happen annually during that month. While this month is like January, there are some interesting differences.

Weather in Iceland during FebruaryFebruary can be intense. It’s normal to have severe storms, which mean storm warnings, road closures, snow, rain, and possibly dangerous driving conditions.

While the average temperature range for this month is from -1°C (30°F) and highs of 4°C (39°F), I can attest that we had a decent amount days last month where we had over 5°C and even up to 10°C. We went from extremely icy conditions, and a crazy windstorm that shut down KEF airport to it feeling like summerish temperatures. We are still experiencing those temperatures right now but it looks like we’ll be dipping back to below freezing soon.

Day Light Hours in February in IcelandThis month is amazing because the darkest period is finally over. Even though the beginning of the month means only 7 hours and 6 minutes of daylight, it is a huge jump from the beginning of January, which has only 4 hours and 23 minutes. By mid-February, we have 8 hours and 43 minutes of daylight. At the end of the month, it’s a whopping 10 hours and 2 minutes.

Renting a Car During February in IcelandGo Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

What to Wear in FebruaryIn my opinion, what you wear in Iceland can make or break your trip. No one wants to be cold and wet. I did an episode called “Iceland Packing List for Winter”

The name of the winter prep game in Iceland is layers. There is a base layer, which can either be wool or a synthetic material, like polyester. The next is the mid-layer, which provides insulation and it can fleece, wool (like a traditional Icelandic lopapeysa), or a synthetic material.

Last, but certainly not least, is the outer layer. It provides protection.

Winter boots with a sole that has good grip and micro spikes to add on to the bottom of your boots are a must! It’s incredibly icy in the capital area and all around the country during winter.

Windproof & waterproof gloves, thick socks, a hat, and scarf will come in handy.

On the other end of the clothes spectrum that is a must to bring is your swimwear. Dipping into a luxuriously warm hot tub when it’s chilly outside is one of the best feelings. Yes, the path to get there from the dressing room can be an invigorating experience but it’s totally worth it

The Ultimate Iceland Packing Checklist – Winter & Summer

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland in FebruaryRoad conditions will vary depending on where you are in Iceland. I’ve traveled to the West, South, and North during this time of the year and I’ve encountered mostly icy roads but there were also times when the roads were dry. The ring road, which circles around the country is paved, so you don’t have to worry about rough roads if you plan to go to many of the popular attractions. There will be a gravel road here or there.

The most important thing is there are nail tires on the rental cars here, so you will have that added bit of traction when driving. It makes a huge difference, especially on country roads. Driving during winter can be challenging if you are not used to wintery conditions. Even if you are, the wind gusts can shake the car a bit while you’re on the road. I always suggest that people drive at speed that they feel comfortable. It might be a little less than the speed limit bit at least you will get there safely.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in February* Low season * Northern lights * The landscape is a winter wonderland * Totally frozen or half-frozen waterfalls

Top Activities to Do in February in Iceland* Northern Lights * Ice Cave Tours * Glacier Tours – hiking & climbing * Snowmobile Tours * Skiing & Snowboarding + Bláafjöll mountain near Reykjavík + Troll Peninsula * Fun Winter Road Trips * Bathing in Geothermal Pools

February Events in Iceland* Winter Lights Festival * List í ljósi – Art in the Light

Random Fact of the EpisodeLorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.

Icelandic word of the episodeFebrúar – February

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I have some news to share that may or may not impact travelers to Iceland. I’ve been holding off on talking about the current labor strikes because they have yet to have a big impact on the everyday lives of most people living in Reykjavik or people visiting. However, that might change in the coming days or week if the strike continues and a work ban happens.

While there are a lot of drama that I could go into about what is happening behind the scenes, I decided to give an abridged yet still informative synopsis about what is happening.

The Short Backstory About the Labor StrikesEfling, one of the largest labor unions in Iceland, has been fighting for higher wages for their members. Due to inflation, the cost of food and other items have gone way up and current minimum wage salaries are not cutting it as a livable wage.

Many members in this union are on the lower end of the pay scale. They work in hotels, drive trucks, staff in hospitals, police officers and so on. Well, Efling and the Confederation of Icelandic Enterprises (SA) have not been able to strike a deal when it comes to companies agreeing to pay their employees more. To demonstrate their stance on demanding more pay, over 40% of Efling members voted for some kind of strike.

Of the 21,000+ members in Efling about 2,000 are currently on strike. In response to the the strikes, about 94.73% of the companies that are members of the Confederation of Icelandic Enterprises have voted in favor of a work ban or lock out.

This work ban means that all of the members of Efling, regardless if they are actively taking part in the strikes, will be barred from working and will not be paid while the work ban is in effect. Originally, the work ban was scheduled for March 2nd but it has now been postponed until March 6th.

What The Strikes Mean for Travelers in IcelandThe truck drivers on strike are not delivering fuel to gas stations and there is concern that stations in Reykjavik, the Reykjanes Peninsula (where the airport is located), South Iceland, West Iceland, and the Westfjords will run out of fuel. Other individuals that are on strike clean hotels in the Reykjavik capital area. If you are planning to stay at the following hotels, you might experience a disruption in service or a cancellation of your accommodations:

Hotel Reykjavik Saga
Fosshotel Rauðará
Fosshotel Lind
Berjaya Reykjavík Natura Hotel
Hilton Reykjavík Nordic
Berjaya Reykjavík Marina Hotel

If you find that your hotel accommodations have been cancelled and you can not rebook your accommodations somewhere else, there is an emergency number you can call. It is open for 12 hours a day (8 AM – 8 PM GMT. The number is +354-891-7765.

One major thing to consider is if the work ban goes into effect on March 6th, then tourism and other industries in the country might grind to a halt. The Confederation of Icelandic Enterprises has stated that emergency workers like the police, hospital workers, rescue team members and so on when not take part in the work ban. That is one reassurance for all of anyone concerned about getting any type of care during all of this. There is also no current concern about stores running out of food or anything like that.

List of Fuel Stations in IcelandHere is a list of websites for the largest fuel stations in the country. They are showing which stations of theirs have fuel and which have run out. Not all of the sites are in English. The word opið means the station is open and lokað means it is closed.

https://www.olis.is/um-olis/frettir/275
https://www.atlantsolia.is/stadan-a-bensinstodvunum/
https://www.orkan.is/verkfall/
https://www.n1.is/opnar-daelur/

According to the Icelandic tourism board, the FlyBus that transports people to and from the airport will continue to run. Also, the public bus, Stræto, in Reykjavík will continue to run on schedule too for the time being.

Random Fact of the EpisodeYou might be wondering what the Icelandic government has to say about all of this. Well, I did too and here is the consenus at the moment. According to an article published today, February 28th, the Icelandic Parliament does not believe they should step in. They believe that the state appointed mediator Ástráður Haraldsson will handle it and find an agreeable solution for both parties. However, if the dispute escalates to a place where public safety is threatened, the government will step in and make a decision. I guess we just have to wait and see what happens.

Icelandic Word of the Episodeverkfall = strike

I sincerely hope all of this comes to leads to a better situation for the workers and that your travel plans are not impacted.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega!

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While there are not many ´tourist traps´ in Iceland, there are certainly things worth avoiding or at least knowing what you are getting into so you can make an informed decision. The five tourist traps in Iceland that I‘m sharing in this episode are the most common ones you will enocunter.

Review of the All Things Iceland Podcast“Wish this show was done for every country”

We are heading to Iceland in 1 week (2/15/23) and this podcast has been so interesting and informative. Well done on all levels!!!

Blueharpplayer from the United States

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Thank you Blueharpplayer for that review. If you are enjoying the show, feel free to leave a review. It helps others to get an understanding of what they can expect to hear and you might get a shoutout in one of the episodes.

5 Tourist Traps to Avoid in Iceland1. Fake Icelandic sweatersOne of the worst tourist traps, in my mind, are fake Icelandic sweaters. Some shops have been selling sweaters with similar patterns to a lopapeysa (the official name of an Icelandic sweater) but they are made in China and are not made with Icelandic wool. In 2020, the term „lopapeysa“ was protected by Parliament because so many shops were selling fake ones.

Criteria that a sweater needs to meet to be considered an Icelandic lopapeysa* The wool used to make handcrafted Icelandic sweaters shall be cut from Icelandic sheep. * Only virgin wool shall be used as material for the sweater (wool that has not been recycled). * The sweater shall be knitted from unspun wool, such as unspun plötulopi wool, thinner léttlopi wool, Álafosslopi wool, etc.. * The sweater shall have a circular knitted yoke with pattern shapes and/or pattern benches from the shoulder area to the neck. * The sweater shall be handknitted in Iceland. * The sweater shall be knitted in a circle without stitches. * The sweater shall have an open front or be whole.

My advice is to always look at the label of the Icelandic sweater in question to see where it is made. If it doesn’t say, then ask the shop assistant. Stores, like the Icelandic Handknitting association, have knitters around the country that they employ to make their sweaters. Their sweaters have the name of the knitter on them, which I think is pretty cool. They have two brick-and-mortar stores in Reykjavik where you can go and try on a variety of sweaters.

A great place to buy Icelandic sweaters online is The Iceland Store.

I will have links to both shops in the show notes of this episode at allthingsiceland.com/Iceland-tourist-traps.

Another thing to know is that a fake Icelandic sweater will likely be much less expensive than a real one. It’s normal for an Icelandic lopapeysa to cost $200 or more. The high-quality material, craftsmanship, and the fact that they can last many years, even decades, makes it worth it to me.

Puffin ShopsA potential culprit of selling fake Icelandic are a type of store nicknamed „Puffin shops“. These shops sell a lot of knick knacks that are massed produced in China. Sometimes they are little statues, t-shirts with random sayings on them, plastic Viking helmets and so on. There are a decent number of these shops on Laugavegur, Iceland‘s famous shopping street.

Of course, it is totally up to you to buy these things but if you are looking for unique souvenirs made in Iceland, you can buy a lopapeysa or visit kirsuberjatréð. It‘s a shop that sells handcrafted jewelry, apparel, and home décor made my local designers. That is just one of many other stores that are available for buying locally designed/made items. I am a collecting a longer list for a future episode. Make sure you are subscribed to the podcast on whatever platform you listen to this on, so you don’t miss out when that episode is published.

Near beerIf you‘re fairly new to the podcast, you might not know that alcohol and beer in the country are sold almost exclusively by the icelandic government in stores called Vínbúðins. What I mean by them being exclusive is that there are no other liquor stores that can sell you a six pack of beer or a bottle of wine. While you can buy alcohol from restaurants and bars with liqour licenses, oh and breweries now can sell their beer directly to customers, you must go to a Vínbúðin if you want a variety of alcohol to choose from. The only exception to this are the duty free shops but that’s a totally different situation.

I’m mentioning all of this because you might find yourself in an Icelandic food shop and you see what looks like beer. This could lead you to get excited and to buy the beer without first looking at the alcohol content. Well, that beer might be 2.5% alcohol or less. It’s what is called “near beer” because it tastes like beer but is essentially non-alcoholic. I’ve heard a few people tell me that they fell for this. To be fair, the stores ae not trying to trick you but it is incredible how easy it is to assume that you are buying beer.

Alcohol in Iceland is heavily taxed. One way to lessen the cost is to buy it at duty free and utilize the happy hours here, or a bring a bottle or two of your own, especially hard liquor. The higher the alcohol content here, the more it is taxed. Of course, you can always go to the state-owned stores (vínbúðin) if you want or need something.

Bottled WaterThe tap water in Iceland is simply exquisite. Honestly, it has made drinking water in every other country difficult because it is so delicious. Well, Greenland also has amazing water. What the two of those have in common is that they have glaciers and their water is coming from those huge chunks of ice that cover the parts of each country.

While I understand that some people drink bottled water at home, it is completely unnecessary to do that in Iceland. Buying bottled water here is for sure a tourist trap. I recommend bringing a resuable bottle and filling it up via the tap and running streams out in the countryside.

Taking a Taxi from the AirportThe last tourist trap is not a trap as much as it is easy to assume that the cost of it is way less than what it is. That is taking a taxi from the airport. According to the exchange rate today, it is $126 to take a taxi from the airport to downtown Reykjavík. It’s a 45 minute drive. For some, that is not an issue but for many, that is considered way too high. There is currently no Uber, Lyft or car ride sharing program here, so that is not an alternative.

Besides taking your rental car, the other option is the Flybus, which is about $26 from the airport to the bus terminal BSÍ. There is free wifi on the bus, which I find to be a nice add-on. If you choose a different drop-off location in the city near your accommodations, the price goes up to $33. The stops are often hotels or bus stops nearby your place. A much less expensive option to a taxi if there are only two of you.

One helpful thing to point out is that you have a group of 4 adults, it is still 18.000 for the ride but if you split it then it is 4.500 ISK a person or $31. That is less than the drop off near your location per person by Flybus. Something to consider when doing the math but the bus.

Random Fact of the EpisodeIn December 2014, the Icelandic parliament enacted the Product Names Protection Act, which allows for the protection of product names based on origin, territory, or traditional uniqueness. Such laws, often manifested as Designation of Origin, are widespread in Europe, where they are often applied to artisanal products such as French cheese and Spanish ham. The first product name to receive such protection in Iceland was “Icelandic lamb,” which was protected in 2019.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeTúristagildra – tourist trap

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To share more about each month in Iceland, I’m adding an informational series to the podcast. After each month of this year, I will provide insight about what you can expect in the month. Things like the weather, road conditions, what to wear/pack, what makes it worth it to visit during that month, some tips on driving in that time, top activities, and events that happen annually during that month.

Weather in Iceland in JanuaryWhile the temperature can range from -10˚C to + 5˚C (14˚F to 41˚F), the average temperature, specifically in Reykjavík, in January in from -1˚C to just above freezing at +1˚C (30.2˚F to 33.8˚F).

As you venture out to the countryside, the temperatures are often cooler, especially as you head north. We’ve had an unusually cold winter. To my surprise, there were some places that went as low as -22˚C (-7.6˚F).

On top of the possible weather temperatures, there are wind and/or snowstorms that happen during this time of year. Every winter is not the same but there does seem to be an expectation of more storms in January.

Of course, the wind chill makes the temperatures I spoke about earlier more biting. Depending on what you are used to regarding winter, these numbers might sound intense. Yes, it’s a bit intense but I still think this time of year is an amazing time to visit.

Please keep in mind that no matter the time of year that you visit Iceland, it’s imperative that you try to be flexible with your schedule. I know that sounds challenging when you have a limited number of days but the storms here can be dangerous. This can force you to change the direction you plan to go in or even keep you staying put for a day or two.

A little later in this episode, I talk about what makes it a fun month to visit and I share what I recommend wearing during January in Iceland so you can keep warm and dry.

Day Light Hours in January At the beginning of January, we start off with a whopping 4 hours and 23 minutes of day light in Reykjavík. By January 16th, we have 5 hours and 29 minutes, and by the 31st we have jumped up to 6 hours and 29 minutes.

Armed with this knowledge, you will be able to make informed decisions when it comes to planning your trip in the country. Shorter days make it harder to see many of the natural wonders around the country but knowing that beforehand will help you manage expectations and the ability to work in other activities that can be done when the sun goes down.

What to Wear in January in IcelandIn my opinion, what you wear in Iceland can make or break your trip. No one wants to be cold and wet. Well, ok most people don’t want to be cold and wet. Side note, I’m really interested in learning the Wim Hof method, so I might end being one of those people that willingly jumps into cold tubs. If you haven’t heard of Wim Hof aka “The Ice Man”, I highly recommend looking him up.

Ok, back to what you should pack and wear in Iceland. I did an episode called “Iceland Packing List for Winter”

Cintamani – High Quality Local Icelandic Outdoor Clothing CompanyBefore I jump in, I am very excited to share that the sponsor of this episode is Cintamani, an Icelandic outdoor clothing brand that provides high quality clothes for all types of adventures.

I have been a fan of theirs for quite some time because their clothes are amazing. I have a decent amount of items from them that have provided amazing protection against Iceland‘s harsh weather conditions. Because I am so familiar with the brand and the quality they provide, I am happy that I can offer my listeners a discount of 15% off your online purchases with them when you use the code „Jewells“.

If you shop in person, they have a lovely outlet in the Hafnarfjörður area that is on the way from the airport to Reykjavík. Along with new clothing for the season, they have clothes from a previous season in the back being sold at a discount. It’s worth checking out.

My Favorite Clothes from Cintamani1. Brynja jacket 2. Trausti pants 3. Ögn jacket

Last, but certainly not least, is the outer layer. It provides protection. A parka that has down or a material like PrimaLoft, a synthetic material found in some of my coats from Cintamani. It’s incredibly warm and light! An outer layer with wind and rain protection is a must as well.

Winter boots with a sole that has good grip and micro spikes to add on to the bottom of your boots are a must! It’s incredibly icy in the capital area and all around the country during winter.

Windproof & waterproof gloves, thick socks, a hat, and scarf will come in handy.

Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland in January Road conditions will vary depending on where you are in Iceland. I’ve traveled to the West, South, and North during this time of the year and I’ve encountered mostly icy roads but there were also times when the roads were dry.

The ring road, which circles around the country is paved, so you don’t have to worry about rough roads if you plan to go to many of the popular attractions. There will be a gravel road here or there.

Even if you are, the wind gusts can shake the car a bit while you’re on the road. I always suggest that people drive at speed that they feel comfortable. It might be a little less than the speed limit bit at least you will get there safely.

Why You Should Visit Iceland in January* NYE celebrations * Low season * The Northern lights * The landscape is a winter wonderland * Totally frozen or half-frozen waterfalls

Top Activities to Do in January in Iceland* Northern Lights * Ice Cave Tours * Glacier Tours – hiking & climbing * Snowmobile Tours * Skiing & Snowboarding * Fun Winter Road Trips * Bathing in Geothermal Pools

January Events in Iceland* New Year’s Eve * Þrettándinn – January 6th (last day of Christmas in Iceland) * Þorrablót * Reykjavík International Games * Dark Music Days (Myrkir Músíkdagar)

Before jumping into the random fact of the episode, I would like to thank Cintamani, the sponsor of this episode. Use my code “Jewells” on their website to save 15% on their high quality outdoor clothes.

Random Fact of the Episode According to an article in Iceland Mag in 2015

“January and February were the windiest months in Iceland since 1995, with an average wind speed of 10 metres per second (22 mph, 36 km/hour).
According to meteorologist Einar Sveinbjörnsson the beginning of the year saw the country battered by near constant ravaging gales.
One of the heaviest storms hit the southern parts of the country on February 22 when the strongest gusts of wind measured 63 metres per second (141 mph, 227 km/hour) by Sandfell in Öræfi, South Iceland.”

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Icelandic Word of the Episode January – Janúar

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You can make your trip to Iceland even more enjoyable with these 11 apps downloaded on your smartphone. I use many of these apps on a weekly basis but one of them is dependent on the season, so just be mindful of that.

Explore Iceland On Your OwnYou’ll find them especially handy if you plan to rent a car and drive around the country on your own. If you are planning to do that then the sponsor of this episode will come in handy.

Go Car Rental Iceland is a local Icelandic car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars and very competitive prices. Use my code Iceland10 to save 10% off the entire cost of your rental car.

Driving & Weather Related AppsWhile these are not in order of importance, the first one is one of the most important sites/apps for you to know.

Safe Travel AppSafeTravel.is has an app where you can get updates on weather alerts, submit a travel plan (this lets authorities know where you planned to visit if you get lost or don’t have connection in a place but need help. When I checked out the app today, it even had a warning for Reynisfjara beach because of high and dangerous waves that are expected, and an avalanche warning in some parts of the country.

They have a color code system for roads that range from green, which means a road is easily passable to red, which means closed. The colors can be seen on a map. When you choose what area, you plan to travel in, the roads corresponding to that place pop up with appropriate colors. What’s great about this is that you can check safe travel out before leaving to see if the conditions of any of the roads you plan to travel on.

Google MapsGoogle Maps works well in Iceland because it’s an easy place to navigate. If you don’t plan to have internet connection during your stay, meaning not renting a WIFI hotspot or using your existing phone service provider’s international internet plan, then you can download the whole map of Iceland on Google Maps onto your phone. Personally, I like to have internet connection because I use more than just Google Maps when on the road, but to each their own.

Yr.no or VedurThe weather in Iceland is always something you have to take into consideration when traveling. Yes, I have mentioned storms and potential weather alerts BUT those are not happening most of the time.

However, it’s almost guaranteed that you will encounter rain, windy conditions, snow (based on the season and where you are in the summer. The highlands can still have snow in the height of summer), icy and/or slippery roads or sidewalks. Vedur, which means weather, is information from the National Weather Service in Iceland. While I do have the app, I’m not the biggest fan of it because it can be a little finnicky. The actual website is better, but it’s still not that user friendly.

Sometimes it will say that it can’t find a certain location even though it is well known. You might be wondering why I’m even mentioning if since I/m not a fan of it. Well, I do want to let you know about it but my preferred app is from the Norwegian Meteorological Institute and it’s called yr.no. It’s been fairly accurate when I have used it, which is often. You are more than welcome to either app or both. I have also heard that the app Windy is good, but I have yet to use it.

112 AppThe emergency number in Iceland is 112.

“The 112 Iceland app makes it possible to contact 112 without calling. Clear simple app menu assists users in explaining what is happening and send a text message to an emergency operator. As soon as the app contacts the emergency operator your location is sent to the emergency center, along with the personal information stored in the app and a description of what is going on. This makes it possible to respond even more quickly to your call.

The app is based on a design for hearing impaired persons who use sign language, in Icelandic called “döff people” but has shown itself to be useful for anyone who might have difficulty calling for help or in describing the situation in a call.”

If you happen to find yourself in a situation where you need emergency services and have internet services, but you can’t speak or a call is not going through, you can use the app to get help.

MusicSpotifyA trip in Iceland would not be complete without hearing music from local music artists. I teamed up with Go Car Rental to create an epic playlist of various Icelandic artists for you to listen to while you travel. Of course, you can also listen to these artists where you live but I think you’ll see that the music gives a different feel to the landscape as you drive along.

We put together a playlist that can be found on Spotify. It’s called “Epic Iceland Road Trip with All Things Iceland & GO”

You’ll find a mix of famous international Icelandic artists, ones that are famous in the country, as well as some up-and-coming people.

Happy Hours in ReykjavikAs I have mentioned in other episodes, like “Expensive Mistakes to Avoid in Iceland”, buying alcohol in Iceland is expensive. I highly recommend picking up alcohol in duty free, if you plan to drink, but you are limited to the amount you can buy at one time. To lessen the cost of drinking in bars and nightclubs, there is an app called Barhopp that showcases the happy hours going on in Reykjavík. It even showcases some events, like Djs playing at certain venues and dance parties.

I found this app after I noticed that the Appy Hour app, which many people used previously, was no longer being updated. It is nice to see that a new app has popped up to fill the gap because there are many happy hours happening around town throughout the week. You can try delicious cocktails and locally brewed beers at different locations. It might even be fun to make your own bar crawl. I did one in 2022 with friends and it was a blast. It was specifically a beer crawl, and we went to Brew Dog, Einstök bar, and Skúli Bar.

The Northern LightsMy Aurora Forecast (only useful during winter)The only app on here that is season dependent is the next coming up, which is My Aurora Forecast. The northern lights in Iceland can only be viewed in winter because we long, dark nights during that time. During most of the summer, we have 24-hour bright days, which makes it impossible to see the northern lights.

If you have not already, I recommend listening to an episode I shared last year called “How and Where to See the Northern Lights in Iceland.”

Hiking TrailsAll trailsHiking in Iceland is one of my favorite activities. While you can do it any time of year, summer is optimal because you have a larger number of trails available. Plus, you can venture into the highlands, which is a magnificent place to visit.

I like to use the app All Trails for ideas of where to go. The trails range from walking tours in Reykjavik to very challenging hikes in remote parts of the country. Along with directions, a navigation tool, length of the hike, elevation gain, route type (such as a loop or one way), and level of the hike (like easy, moderate or challenging) it also provides reviews from people that have used the trail. Users can submit photos of the hike, so others have an idea of what their experience might be like.

The app is free to use, but you get access to more features if you upgrade. Personally, I haven’t upgraded but I might consider it in the future.

Alternative Transportation OptionsRegardless if you rent a car or not, there might be time when you want to try other forms of transportation during your visit. Here are two apps you can use in the Reykjavík metro area.

Hopp ScooterHopp provides electric scooters that let you zip around town. Its very easy to use the app and riding the scooters can be a lot of fun. One safety concern is that some people have been drinking and scootering. I don’t recommend that, especially since we have been hearing about more serious scooter related accidents that end in hospital visits. Also, wearing a helmet is recommended because these scooters can go fast!

Strætó bus app – KlappiðIf you would like to take the public bus around the city, you need the Strætó bus app called Klappið. I have heard that some people were having issues with it but it was launched last year after the bus company decided to upgrade from their old app system. Hopefully, they have worked out the kinks.

Icelandic to English TranslationsGoogle TranslateOver 95% of Icelanders speak English well. However, you might encounter a sign or some text in Icelandic that boogles your mind. The Google Translate app has an awesome feature that makes translating Icelandic a breeze. There is a camera function that scans the text and translates it on the screen in real time. To be fair, the translation are not always 100% accurate but it does a decent job at getting the meaning across. Well, most of the time.

Before I jump into the random fact of the episode, I would like to give another shout out to Go Car Rental Iceland for sponsoring this episode. I hope you check out the Spotify Iceland Road trip that we collaborated on. I love listening to it and I plan to keep updating up periodically. Remember to use my code Iceland10 to save 10% on your entire rental cost when you book with Go Car Rental Iceland.

Random Fact of the Episode There has been a rumor spread by international media outlets that for years that there is an app in Iceland that Icelanders use when dating. Because the country is so small, there is some concern that the person you’re interested in could be a close relative, like a first cousin, so it wouldn’t be strange to want to check that out beforehand. That is where the Islendinga App has come into play.

When an Icelanders puts in their kennitala, they can look up all of their relatives dating back to the time of the Vikings. The rumor is that this app was specifically created for the dating scene in Iceland. The truth is that the app is an archive that was once in the written form but now has been preserved digitally. While Icelanders CAN use it to see who they are related to and if they are or are not closely related to a person of interest, it is not primarily used for dating.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeIn recent years, many English words have found their way into the Icelandic language. For instance, many Icelanders just say app in an Icelandic accent when talking about a computer program.

However, the Icelandic word for a computer program or computer application is tölvuforrit.

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This post is meant to give you a list of the U.S. Fast Food Restaurants in Iceland and how I have noticed they may be similar or different from the ones in the states based on menus I have seen. Just note that I’m not going over every possible menu. Also, I must use Instagram as my menu checker. Due to IP restrictions, I can’t see the websites for fast food restaurants in the US. I’ll just be pointing out some interesting differences. Of course, menus are subject to change and this information is based on what I have observed recently

I hardly eat at fast food restaurants, but I have been to a few of the places on this list. I will also list the different locations for each of the restaurants in the show notes, so feel free to check that out at allthingsiceland.com/American-restaurants-in-Iceland

To be fair, I am a big advocate of trying local Icelandic restaurants and food, but I do know of people that like to try U.S. fast food restaurants in other countries. By the way, this episode is not sponsored by any company.

Please note that these are the ones I’m aware of and it’s possible that I might miss one or two that I don’t know about it, but I have tried my best to find every currently open U.S. fast food restaurant in Iceland. Lastly, I will share some US fast food chains that are no longer in Iceland. They tried but inevitably it didn’t work. While I do know the reason for why some of them failed, I will provide some of my speculation as to what happened to the others.

Review of the All Things Iceland Podcast

This is a must listen to podcast about Iceland a stunning island of fire and ice. My husband and I were lucky to find it in preparation for a visit. Jewells does a fabulous job sharing bite-sized cultural, practical, and language information about Iceland. We found it so informative, calming, and fun to listen to we’ve kept it in our regular circulation.

Meg Jean Fitz – United States

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List of U.S. Fast Food Restaurants in Iceland1. Domino’s Pizza – Highest number of locationsNumber of Locations: 18

Price Range: $17.51 – $32.28

What is different on the menu in Iceland vs the U.S.:

Don’t expect to see brownies, apple baked twists, lava chocolate cake, and insanely cheese covered cheesy bread sticks on an Icelandic menu. They do have cheese filled bread sticks but it seems that the ones in the US are also covered in cheese.

SubwayNumber of Locations: 13

Price Range: $6.32 – $13.71

What is different on the menu in Iceland vs the U.S.:

After comparing the menus, it seems that Subway in the US has more cheese options, the ability choice of adding an egg, avocado, as well as more sauces and cookie choices.

Sbarro PizzaNumber of Locations: 10

Price Range: $8.37 – $15.12

What is different on the menu in Iceland vs the U.S.:

The biggest surprise to me about Sbarro in Iceland is that it has way more options, especially when it comes to pasta. This comparison was based on Sbarro’s international website, which might not be representing well what is available in all locations.

KFC – Kentucky Fried ChickenNumber of Locations: 8

Price Range: $2.45 – $20

What is different on the menu in Iceland vs the U.S.:

One of the biggest omissions on the Icelandic menu is mashed potatoes, biscuits, and mac & cheese bowls.

My favorite part on the Icelandic menu is that they have permanent vegan and vegetarian options on the menu. In the US, there are limited-time only vegan and vegetarian options at select locations.

Taco BellNumber of Locations: 1

Price Range: $3.49 – $14.06

What is different on the menu in Iceland vs the U.S.:

Items like Mexican pizza, breakfast, whip freeze, a double decker, Doritos Locos Taco, and dessert

Pizza HutNumber of Locations: 1

Price Range: $9.07 – $27.35

What is different on the menu in Iceland vs the U.S.:

There are the same amount of pizza options in both countries. However, the US has options for pizzas to be hand tossed, pan, thin n crispy, stuffed crust, hand tossed, and skinny slice.

Along with that, in the US you can get a gluten free pizza.

You won’t find Hershey’s toasted s’mores cookie and chocolate brownie, Hershey’s chocolate chip cookie, cinnamon sticks, and apple pies in Iceland.

TGI FridaysNumber of Locations: 1

Price Range: $16.84 – $32.70

What is different on the menu in Iceland vs the U.S.:

To my surprise, I have not seen potato skins on the menu in Iceland, battered shrimp, and desserts.

U.S. Fast Food Restaurants No longer in Iceland* McDonald’s * Krispy Kreme * Dunkin Donuts * Ruby Tuesdays * Burger King * Popeye’s * Papa Johns * Dairy Queen * Little Caesar’s

You might be wondering what has caused these restaurants to fail, while others still stick around. In the random fact of the episode, I will share two facts. One is a reason why these places don’t make the cut and the other is the oldest surviving US fast food restaurant in Iceland.

Random Fact of the EpisodeKFC is the oldest surviving foreign food chain. It opened in 1980 in Hafnarfjörður.

This is quote from the Reykjavik Grapevine that quoted Davíð Þorláksson in 2019, who at the time was Director of competitiveness at the Confederation of Icelandic Enterprise.

According to Davíð Þorláksson, director of competitiveness at the Confederation of Icelandic Enterprise, “The country’s geographical isolation leads to higher transportation costs that pose problems for restaurants that need to import a large portion of their resources.” KFC and Domino’s proudly use Icelandic products in their food. McDonald’s, on the other hand, sourced its materials from the corporation’s supplier in Germany. The Icelandic króna (ISK) fell significantly against the euro (and everything else) after the 2008 banking crisis and the resulting price increase, management believed, would be too high.
Davíð pointed out that “fluctuation of the ISK poses a risk for everybody doing business in Iceland. For foreign restaurant chains, the problem is that all income is in ISK, while many resources need to be imported and purchased in a foreign currency and the chains will expect their dividends in their local currency. This can create an imbalance that can be mitigated with costly hedging.

Reykjavik Grapevine

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Icelandic Word of the EpisodeSkyndibiti – fast food

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Happy New Year!! I hope you all had a fun start to the 2023. I thought it would be fun to share a wrap of 2022 with some major news stories from Iceland and some of my favorite episodes that I published last year. There were certainly a lot of ups and downs throughout the year, but such is life.

Local Icelandic CompaniesThe sponsors of this episode are Go Car Rental Iceland and Cintamani.

Go Car Rent Iceland is an awesome car rental company that has great customer service, a large variety of cars to choose from, and competitive rates.

If you use my code Iceland10, you can save 10% on your entire car rental cost.

Cintamani is a local Icelandic outdoor clothing company that makes high quality clothing designed to withstand harsh Icelandic weather conditions. I wear their clothes when I’m out exploring the country, and I’m thankful for them because they keep me warm and dry.

Use my code Jewells to save 15% when you shop with them online.

Top News Stories in Iceland From 20221. Safety Signs, Cameras Installed at Reynisfjara Beach 2. Refugee Man and Family Previously Deported Win Case 3. New Plant to Capture Ten Times More CO2 from Atmosphere at Hellisheiði 4. Forests Now Cover 2% of Iceland 5. Immigrants in Iceland just over 60,000

My Favorite Podcast Episodes from 20221. Is the Meradalir eruption over? 2. How my sister and mom felt about me moving to Iceland 3. Iceland is more vegan friendly than you think 4. One of the Most Influential Icelandic Authors of Her Generation – Auður Jónsdóttir 5. From Brazil to Iceland: Georg Leite’s Experience Living in the Land of Fire & Ice 6. The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland

Random Fact of the EpisodeI published 34 episodes including 10 interviews in 2022. This surprised me when I looked at it because my initial feeling was that I didn’t do that much for the podcast last year. Thankfully, my inner critic was silenced when I actually looked at the numbers.

I would like to thank all of you that listened, shared, and wrote reviews for the podcast. The feedback means a lot and I look forward to publishing many more exciting episodes this year. My hope is to get more interviews this year because I had to put that on the back burner last year due to a busier schedule.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeNý byrjun – fresh start

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I’m excited to announce the opportunity for you to win a trip to Iceland. I teamed up with Go Car Rental Iceland to bring a little bit more extra magic to this holiday season. Below are all the details for the giveaway.

The Winner of a Trip to Iceland will Receive:* A 4×4 SUV rental for 7-days from Go Car Rental Iceland * A $700 flight voucher * An authentic Icelandic lopapeysa (sweater) for you & a loved one * A one-hour trip planning call with me * A bag of Icelandic goodies upon arrival for your adventure

Here’s How to Enter to Win a Trip to IcelandOn the All Things Iceland Instagram account, do the following:

Like the video announcement of the giveaway
Follow @gocarrentaliceland
Tag a person you want to join you on the trip (1 tag = 1 entry. Please put each tag as separate comments. You can tag as many people as you want)

Bonus entry! – post the video on your story and tag me

Guidelines for the Giveaway* The winner will be notified via direct message by @allthingsiceland * Must be 18 years or older to eligible * The winner will be notified on December 25th, 2022 & announced * This contest is not sponsored, administered, or associated with Instagram in any way.

Icelandic Word of the EpisodeGangi þér vel – good luck

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Winter in Iceland can range from a somewhat calm wnter wonderland to blizzard like conditions that force you to stay off the road. Even though the temperatures here are milder than what most peple assume (an average of around 0 degrees celsius in Reykjavik), packing appropriately for winter in Iceland is crucial for staying warm and dry. Just note that the farther north you go, it is normally colder and snowier/icier. Granted you will encounter plenty of ice in the south too.

While I do focus on essential things to pack for winter in Iceland, I will also include some fun non-essentials that could come in handy.

I will share in the show notes of this episode my favorite items from them, if you are curious.

This discount comes just in time for the gift giving season, so you can get something for yourself or a loved one.

If you shop in person, they have a lovely outlet in the Hafnarfjörður area that is on the way from the airpor to Reykjavík. Along with new clothing for the season, they have clothes from a previous season in the back being sold at a discount. Definitely worth checking out.

My Favorite Clothes from Cintamani1. Brynja jacket 2. Trausti pants 3. Ögn jacket

Essentials to Pack for Icelandic WinterThere are many more essentials on my free packing list here.

Base layer – moisture control – This is essentially long underwear and can be made from polyester, Merino wool, nylon and silk. Top and bottoms are good to have during winter here.

Mid-layer – insulation – tops made of fleece, wool (like an Icelandic lopapeysa sweater), down or synthetic material. Jackets and vests with these fibers work well over your base layer.

Outer layer – protection – a windproof winter coat with a hood that has a water repellent layer. It is best to have pants made for winter conditions that are also wind resistant and water repellant and made from synthetic material.

Winter boots with a sole that has good grip (Vibram soles work well) and are water resistant. Winter hiking boots with ankle support are necessary if you plan to go on glacier hikes or when walking on very uneven terrain.

Pants (casual use) – jeans or slacks to wear around the city/out to dinner

Microspikes – it can be very icy on some Reykjavík sidewalks and on paths in the countryside.

Windproof gloves – warm and insulated – preferably a pair with touchscreen tips that allow you to operate your phone or gadgets without having to take your gloves off.

Windproof and insulated hat

Scarf

Warm socks – ones made from wool or an insulating synthetic fiber

Swimwear – Iceland is known for its swimming pools and hot springs

Day pack

Free Iceland Packing Checklist

Non-Essential Things to Pack for Winter in IcelandThis is just a few items on my list and you can find the whole list here.

External power pack

Walking sticks

Ear plugs

A journal

Random Fact of the EpisodeThe lowest temperature on record in Iceland is −39.7 °C (−39.5 °F).

Icelandic Words of the EpisodeEfri hluti – upper part but means the outer layer

Úlpa – úlpur – parka

Jakki – jakkat

Regnfatnaður – rain coat

Peysa – peysur

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I’m delving into a fascinating and kind of scary possibility. Vík í Mýrdal is a small town in South Iceland that has become a popular place for tourists to stop to see the area’s famous black sand beach, to stay the night if they need accommodations, and so on.

However, most visitors don’t know about the potential danger that looms over this town of just over 800 residents. Katla volcano, which is about 26 kilometers or 16 miles from the town, poses a threat not only to the town if it erupts but it also could have a larger impact on the world. The Lava Show in Vík í Mýrdal and Reykjavík

Before I jump into that, I’d like to thank The Lava Show for sponsoring this episode. During this incredible experience you can witness actual molten hot lava flow into the showroom where you are sitting. I have been to the show twice, specifically The Lava Show in Vík but they now also have a show in Reykjavík too.

While I have been fortunate to see lava from a volcanic eruption a decent amount of times due to the last two eruptions in Iceland, I was still blown away at how cool it is to see man made lava at the Lava Show. Of course, there is more to this show than just lava. For instance, at the Lava Show in Vík, you get shown a fascinating and informative video about about eruptions along the south coast, including Katla. I don’t want to give too much away but let’s just say that the eruptions in this area, including Eyjafjallajökull and Katla, have definitely made their mark in history. Why The Lava Show is Unique

What‘s even more interesting to me is that the great grandfather of one of the owners of The Lava Show lived in the Vík area during the last eruption of Katla volcano. It is intense what he and his family went through to survive it and they provide insight into that during the show.

Along with seeing the glowing orangey red lava flowing, you feel the heat rise in the room and can hear the crackling sounds of the lava as it cools. The presenters of the show safely show everyone different aspects of how the lava performs, such as if you were to add ice to it or how malleable it is when super hot. This is an activity for all ages. For both locations the Lava Show had to make a special furnace that can heat up the rocks high enough to make the lava.

For an additional price, you can get the behind the scenes expereince to see the furnace and learn more about Icelandic geology.What is unique about the Lava Show in Vík and the one in Reykjavík is that each show is catered to talk about the volcanoes of the area they are in, including the potential dangers the eruptions in these areas can pose. For those that are unaware, Vík is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Reykjavík.

If you want a unique and fun experience in Iceland, I highly recommend checking out the Lava Show in Vík and/or in Reykjavík. I will have a link to the experience in the show notes of this episode at allthingsiceland.com/katla-volcano-eruption How Katla Volcano Got Its Name

The folklore as to how Katla volcano got its name might give you some insight on why people see an eruption of it as one to cause concern. Legend has it that on a monastery in south Iceland lived a housekeeper named Katla. She was described as a bad-tempered woman and there was even a rumor that she was a witch. Apparently, she owned a pair of magical pants or underwear. If someone were to wear these pants they could run as fast as the wind and never get tired.

Due to her bad temper many people feared Katla and did their best to stay away from her. Even the head of the monastery was said to keep his distance. There was also a shepherd named Barði that lived on the monastery. Unfortunately for him, he had to endure the brunt of Katla’s rage if any sheep went missing.

One fateful day, Katla and the head of the monastery went off to visit someone but planned to be back that same evening. Before leaving Katla told Barði to round up the sheep while she and the abbott were gone becaus...

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In this post/podcast episode, I’m sharing some common expensive mistakes that many travelers in Iceland make unknowingly. If you’ve already planned a trip here, then you’re well aware that traveling to and around Iceland can quickly drain money from your bank account.While it’s true that the country is quite expensive, your experience doesn’t have to break the bank. In a future episode, I plan to share a trip budget breakdown, so make sure you are subscribed so you don’t miss out on that.All of these will definitely save you money, #3 includes an innovative way to save money that many tourists will find handy. 5 Expensive Mistakes Tourists Make in Iceland 1. Not Buying Alcohol Before Leaving Keflavík International Airport

Before you even leave Keflavík airport, it‘s highly recommended that you stock up on alcohol at duty free. Of course, this only applies to those that drink. The reason for this is that alcohol in Iceland is heavily taxed. The higher the alcohol percentage content, the higher the tax.Prices in duty free for alcohol (i.e. beer, wine, and spirits) can be upwards of 30% less expensive than in the state owned stores. Please note that vínbúðins or the state-owned alcohol stores are the only places where you can buy spirits. A law passed this year allows for breweries in Iceland to finally sell directly to customers.Yes, you can for sure buy individual drinks at bars but just know that those will be expensive too. One way to decrease the cost is to catch a happy hour. I’m putting together my favorite happy hour places and will definitely be sharing those in the near future. 2. Taking a Taxi From the Airport

The next expensive mistake is taking a taxi from the airport. Most visitors are not aware that Uber, Lyft or any type of ride sharing program legally exist in Iceland. The taxis have a monopoly, and a ride can be costly. Because the airport is about a 40 – 45 minute drive from Reykjavík will be a little over $123.That is the price for up to 4 people. If you split it among 4 people, the price is not that bad. However, if there is only one or two people, the price is just ridiculously high. Alternatively, you can take a bus transfer from the airport, like Flybus for around $23 a person. 3. Not Being Properly Dressed for Icelandic Weather

Not being properly dressed for Icelandic weather can result in you feeling cold, wet, and all around miserable. This can literally put a damper on your vacation. While many people think they have packed well enough, it’s common for a decent amount to still feel cold when they are here. This might lead a person to shell out hundreds of dollars to buy a warmer coat or parka in Iceland.The good news is that I have a little hack for you if you ever find yourself in Iceland and you need extra layers, but you don’t want to spend a bunch of money on clothes. I partnered with IcelandCover for this episode because their business is based around an ingenious idea.They are a company that rents out warm, waterproof, and windproof parkas, boots, and pants. I personally tested out the parka and boots by going behind waterfalls that would typically soak through a regular coat. I stomped in puddles with the boots, and I even went northern lights hunting with the parka. It's a bonus to add that the clothes and boots are vegan-friendly.It was important to make sure the clothes could adequately protect me from the wind, rain, and chilly air. I’m happy to say that the boots and coat held up well.

Where to Find IcelandCover in Reykjavík IcelandCover conveniently has a location in the center of downtown Reykjavík on the famous shopping street Laugavegur. They share the same building as the WhatsOn Information center. So, you can get your clothing rentals and get additional information regarding fun things to do.Their rentals are very affordable.

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Meg Matich is a poet and translator in Reykjavik. She earned her Master’s of Fine Arts from Columbia University and has received support for her work from the Banff Centre, PEN America, and the Fulbright Commission, and she is a frequent collaborator with Reykjavik UNESCO and a friend of UNESCO Lviv. Meg is the author of the poetry chapbook COLD (2022 Eulalia Books).

Among other projects, Meg has collaborated with poet Magnús Sigurðsson on an anthology of Icelandic poetry, translated a book of essays in honor of former President Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, and translated the 2021 novel Magma. Meg is one of a few immigrants in the Icelandic Writers’ Union and considers that membership quintessential to her life in Iceland. Meg's Most Recent Book She Translated

If you haven't already, I highly recommend listening to the podcast episode I did with the Auður Jónsdóttir, author of Quake. Questions I Asked Meg Matich During the Interview

You were born and raised in the US, what inspired you to move to Iceland? What has your experience been like living in Iceland? You are poet, which is awesome. Where do you get ideas for your poetry? You have translated many poems, a book of essays in honor of the former president Vigdís Finnbgadóttir, and the book Magma, just to name a few. What is your process when you are translating? You are one of the few immigrants in the Icelandic Writer’s Union. Was it difficult to get into? What advice do you have for people that want to be translators? What advice do you have for people who want to move to another country? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Meg Matich mentioned meeting Kári Stefánsson, an Icelandic pioneer in human genetics that I interviewed some years ago. Click here to listen to that fascinating interview with him. Share This Post Facebook Email Twitter

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If you haven't already, I highly recommend listening to the podcast episode I did with the Auður Jónsdóttir, author of Quake. Questions I Asked Meg Matich During the Interview

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This week I am sharing some fun and easy winter day trips from Reykjavík that you can enjoy during your visit. The days have become noticeably shorter and soon the nights will be very long, which is something that Icelandic winter is known for.

While it is more than possible to travel the ring road (the road that goes around the whole country) of Iceland during winter, I often find that a decent number of visitors during this season use Reykjavík as their base and are interested in day trips that end up back in the capital.

These ideas are specifically catered to people who plan to drive themselves with a rental car. I have nothing against tour buses but if you’ve heard my other episodes about renting a car you know that it’s my preferred option and the one I recommend to everything that visits because it provides you the opportunity to explore so many places that tour buses don’t go to. How I Made These Winter Day Trips Optimized for Iceland I purposefully chose places that don’t include more than 4-5 hours of driving round-trip because, as I mentioned, we have long dark nights during winter and you will have limited hours of daylight. I think it’s good to use as much of the daylight at the sites and drive in the dark to the places and on the way back to town.

I’m including five-day trips and you can check out the full list of places below. Please note that rental car companies in Iceland do put studded tires on their cars to help with traction on the road during winter if the road is icy. Where to Rent Your Car During Winter in Iceland Before I jump into the places, I’d like to thank the sponsor of this episode, Go Car Rental Iceland. They are a local Icelandic rental company that has competitive rates, great customer service and a large variety of cars to choose from. If you use my code Iceland10, you can save 10% on your entire booking with them.

A few of you have reached out to let me know how great of an experience you’ve had with Go Car Rental Iceland after booking with them and using their vehicles. It brings me so joy to hear that because I only like to partner with companies that I have personally used and feel that my audience will also enjoy and/or find helpful. Please feel free to keep tagging me on Instagram or other places in your adventures. It’s fun to see what all of you are up to. 5 Winter Day Trips from Reykjavik, Iceland

The Iconic Golden Circle To kick off this list, I‘m sharing the most iconic route in the country and that is the Golden Circle. At it‘s simplest, the Golden Circle consists of Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Spring, and Gullfoss waterfall. I‘m going to share 12 Pleaces, including the three main attractiios that you can consider visiting on this day trip.

Þingvellir National Park Laugarvatn Fontana (spa and place where bread is baked in the ground) The Cave People Efstidalur dairy farm Geysir Gullfoss Friðheimar The Secret Lagoon Faxi waterfall Skálholt Sólheimar Eco Village Kerið crater

South Coast Iceland's famous South Coast has so much to see during winter. Below is a fun list of places I think you'll enjoy.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall Gljúfrabúi waterfall Skógafoss Waterfall Skógar Museum Kvernfoss waterfall Sólheimajökull glacier Dyrhólaey Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach Vík The Lava Show (in Vík)

Reykjadalur Hot Spring River Hike Hveragerði in south Iceland is only about a 30 minutes drive from Reykjavík. I didn't include this in the south coast list above because, on average, people spend about 3 hours hiking and spending time in the hot river soaking. 3-hours is the round-trip amount.

There is a great pizza place called Ölverk and a shopping place called Gróðurhúsið that has a food hall in the town, if you find yourself feeling famished after the hike.

I highly recommend bringing water shoes with you for the hot spring river. They come in handy because there are a lot of rocks in the water and the board walk area ...

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The Iconic Golden Circle To kick off this list, I‘m sharing the most iconic route in the country and that is the Golden Circle. At it‘s simplest, the Golden Circle consists of Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Hot Spring, and Gullfoss waterfall. I‘m going to share 12 Pleaces, including the three main attractiios that you can consider visiting on this day trip.

South Coast Iceland's famous South Coast has so much to see during winter. Below is a fun list of places I think you'll enjoy.

Seljalandsfoss waterfall Gljúfrabúi waterfall Skógafoss Waterfall Skógar Museum Kvernfoss waterfall Sólheimajökull glacier Dyrhólaey Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach Vík The Lava Show (in Vík)

Reykjadalur Hot Spring River Hike Hveragerði in south Iceland is only about a 30 minutes drive from Reykjavík. I didn't include this in the south coast list above because, on average, people spend about 3 hours hiking and spending time in the hot river soaking. 3-hours is the round-trip amount.

There is a great pizza place called Ölverk and a shopping place called Gróðurhúsið that has a food hall in the town, if you find yourself feeling famished after the hike.

I highly recommend bringing water shoes with you for the hot spring river. They come in handy because there are a lot of rocks in the water and the board walk area ...

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Auður Jónsdóttir is one of the most accomplished and influential authors writing in Iceland today. Her novels have inspired interest in Iceland, as well as abroad, for their rare blend of incisive frankness and humor. She won the Icelandic Literary Prize for The People in the Basement and the Icelandic Women's Literature Prize for Secretaries to the Spirits. Both novels were nominated for the Nordic Council's Literature Prize.Auður's latest novel, Quake (Stóri skjálfti), became her most successful publication to date and gathered a huge following among Icelandic readers of all ages, strengthening her position as an important writer of her generation. Read Quake By Auður Jónsdóttir

Questions I Asked Auður Jónsdóttir Your grandfather, Halldór Laxness, is one of the most famous Icelanders. For those that are unaware, he won the Noble Prize for literature in 1955. Was he an influence for why you became a writer?Is a goal for you to also win the Noble Prize, or is it just nice if it happens?Where do you get the ideas for your book topics?You are considered one of the most important writers of your generation in Iceland. Why do you think your books resonate so well with generation here?You worked as an in-house writer for the Reykjavík City Theater, which resulted in a play being adapted from your book, “The People in the Basement”. What was that process like (going from writing novels to writing a play)?Are there any authors (other than your grandfather), Icelandic or otherwise, that have inspired your writing or you admire?What, for you, is the most challenging part when it comes to writing a book?What advice do you have for people who want a career in writing?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase? Visit Halldór Laxness' Home in Iceland A while back, I did a podcast episode about Auður's grandfather, Halldór Laxness. He was a fascinating person, and as mentioned, the only Icelander to receive a Nobel Prize (so far).If you are interested in visiting his home, Gljúfrasteinn, which is now a museum, check out this link. Share This Post Facebook Email Twitter Let's Be Social

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Iceland is considered the safest and most peaceful country in the world according to the Global Peace Index published by the Institute for Economics and Peace. However, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t things that visitors to the country need to keep in mind when traveling around the country. Unfortunately, there are mistakes made by tourists each year that range from almost causing accidents to ones that end in fatalities.

This episode is in no way meant to scare anyone who plans to rent a car here regardless of the season. In fact, I highly recommend renting a car. It’s an amazing way to see the country at your own pace and to potentially discover places that you might have missed if you were on a bus tour.

I have partnered with Go Car Rental Iceland on this episode. We both value informing people about these mistakes so they can not only manage their expectations but also know what to look out for when on the road.

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, you can use my code Iceland10 when booking with Go Car Rental Iceland. You'll save 10% on your entire booking. They are a local Icelandic rental car company based in Reykjavík that have excellent customer service, great rates, unlimited miles on their cars, and a large variety of vehicles to choose from. The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland Everything I need to know about renting car, driving, and get around Iceland

Click Here 7 Dangerous Mistakes Tourists Make While Driving in Iceland 1. Stopping in the middle of the road to take photos One of the most dangerous mistakes that many tourists make during the summer in Iceland is stopping in the middle of the road to take photos. I know it sounds ridiculous to some people, but it happens a lot here.

It’s often the case that people are not meaning to block the road but they get so stunned by the views that they legit stop their car to have a look. It can be that they’re staring at horses, mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, reindeer or even an arctic fox.

Instead of immediately looking for a safe place to pull over, they just sit in the middle of a highway. Even worse they often get out of the car with their car still on the road. This has resulted in some accidents and far too many close calls. I totally understand seeing an amazing sight and wanting to stop to see it.

I also understand that when you stop, it could be that no one is behind you at the time. However, if you are on a highway the possibility that another car or truck will come soon is highly likely. Please do yourself and everyone else a favor and find a safe place to pull over. You might even have to drive a little bit down the road to find an appropriate spot but it’s worth it. 2. Driving Off-road

Image by Iceland Magazine Next up is driving off-road. This is not the same as pulling over to the side of the road or driving on a gravel road or driving on an F-road in the highlands. I am specifically talking about driving on land where there are no roads. Some places where tourists have done this is on black sand deserts and fields of lava rock covered in moss.

There are two reasons doing this is dangerous. The first is that the flora in Iceland is fragile. Yes, it grows in an extreme climate but it takes a very long time for things to grow naturally here. There are ecosystems flourishing in these environments that most people are not aware of and driving on them can cause serious damage. In fact, moss in Iceland takes decades to grow back after it has been trampled or driven on.

The second reason is that you might drive over a hidden rock or hole that causes you to have an accident. This could result in you or others in the car being seriously injured.

On top of that, if a person is caught driving off road the fine can be more than $1,000! Honestly, it is just not worth it. 3. Speeding Due to the speed limits being quite low in Iceland, max 90 kmph or about 56 miles per hour, it's easy to find yourself going much faster on ...

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The second reason is that you might drive over a hidden rock or hole that causes you to have an accident. This could result in you or others in the car being seriously injured.

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The words “love“ and “hate“ are very strong words. To be fair, I don‘t actually love or hate any part of learning the Icelandic language but those words work much better in a title than what I “enjoy the most“ and what I “strongly dislike“. So, just take those words with a big grain salt.

Regarding some backstory, I have been learning Icelandic off and on since I moved in 2016. It certainly has not been a linear journey, and I‘ve had many ups and downs but progress is happening. 5 Things I Love About Learning Icelandic

Having a secret language you can speak around the world. Most people don't know the language and being able to speak the language around others without them know what you are saying is pretty cool. There are unusual sounds, such as thedouble ll sound and I enjoy trying to mimic these sounds You have the tools to be able to read Old Icelandic. The language has evolved slowly enough that the current language gives you the ability to read Old Icelandic text, like reading something from the 12th century Interesting insight into the culture. For instance, there are a lot of words for snow like hundslappadrífa (snow flakes that are big like dog paws), Snædís (snow fairy or snow goddess), and so on. When I do speak Icelandic to someone who knows the language well or grew up speaking it, they are delighted to hear that I am learning. The language learning journey has been difficult for me at time, so any and all encouragement is greatly appreciated.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlAApXyLIJQ 5 Things I Hate About Learning Icelandic

Icelandic Grammar can be complicated because there are four cases

Nouns, adjectives and pronouns are declined in these cases. There are also several genders and that makes a big difference too. Numbers from 1-4 are also a pain in the butt sometimes Remembering how to decline properly can really trip you up I used to only make simple sentences for a while because I was so worried about making a mistake with the grammar Use the example of a horse

A Horse – hestur (nominative) About a Horse – um hest (accusative) From a horse – frá hesti (dative) To a horse – til hests (genitive)

There are a decent amount of exceptions in the language that can be a little frustrating too. This happens with nouns and verbs. Sometimes there is a not a clear answer as to why that is the case. Sometimes if I ask for an explanation about something, my teacher will just say af því bara ( just because). I sometimes sound hesitant when I speak because I am not sure if I said it correctly.

An example is if I want to say ég fór til Reykjavíkur, my inflection might sound like there is a question mark at the end because I am not sure if what I wanted to say is correct.

Homynoyms in Icelandic can be confusing, at times.

Bóndinn á Á á á á á The farmer at a farm called Á has an Ewe by a river Homonyms can make it tricky

Icelanders like to practice their English and can easily switch over to speaking English or they want to feel like they are helping you when they hear that you do not speak the language well

It can also be that they think the person sucks at the language (LOL) To combat this, I try to let people know I am practicing Icelandic so they don't immediately switch to English

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lkYrJpUFp9k Random Fact of the Episode Eiríkur Rögnvaldsson, professor emeritus of Icelandic linguistics, wrote in an article that he would like unions to push for employers to bear the cost of teaching foreign employees Icelandic.

Icelanders need to get used to others learning the subject

We are used to being a monolingual nation. It's been a while since there were very few foreigners here. In the past, there were merchants and officials who spoke strange Icelandic, and people made fun of it,"

Eiríkur Rögnvaldsson

Icelanders are not used to people learning Icelandic and not speaking it perfectly.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlAApXyLIJQ 5 Things I Hate About Learning Icelandic

Icelandic Grammar can be complicated because there are four cases

A Horse – hestur (nominative) About a Horse – um hest (accusative) From a horse – frá hesti (dative) To a horse – til hests (genitive)

An example is if I want to say ég fór til Reykjavíkur, my inflection might sound like there is a question mark at the end because I am not sure if what I wanted to say is correct.

Homynoyms in Icelandic can be confusing, at times.

Bóndinn á Á á á á á The farmer at a farm called Á has an Ewe by a river Homonyms can make it tricky

Icelanders like to practice their English and can easily switch over to speaking English or they want to feel like they are helping you when they hear that you do not speak the language well

It can also be that they think the person sucks at the language (LOL) To combat this, I try to let people know I am practicing Icelandic so they don't immediately switch to English

Icelanders need to get used to others learning the subject

Eiríkur Rögnvaldsson

Icelanders are not used to people learning Icelandic and not speaking it perfectly.

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The Northern Lights season in Iceland is almost upon us! I've packed this episode with loads of information to help you have the highest possible chance of seeing this spectacular natural phenomenon. While it is possible to take a tour to see them, I am a big fan of seeing them on my own. I’ll be sharing some awesome places that you can drive to in the country to view them.I decided to also share some background information about the northern lights, including why they appear, the best time of the year to see them, factors that impact you seeing the lights, how to know if the aurora borealis will appear, the best time of day to see them, and my recommendation when it comes to clothing, as well as tips on how to capture the Northern Lights with your phone or camera. Rent a Car in Iceland for your Northern Lights Hunting Adventure Before I jump in, I want to thank Go Car Rental Iceland for sponsoring this episode. They are a great local car rental company based in Reykjavík. As I mentioned earlier, I like to go on adventures at my own pace and having a car allows me and others to do that.Go Car Rental Iceland already has competitive rates but what‘s awesome is that renting a car during winter is way less money than in summer. On top of that, you can save 10% off your entire booking with them when you use my code Iceland10.

Why do the Northern Lights Appear? When charged particles from the sun collide with atoms in the earth’s atmosphere, the electrons inside of atoms move to a higher energy state. When the electrons come down to a lower energy state, they release photons, which is light. That light is what we see as the Aurora borealis or Northern Lights.The strength of the Northern lights, or how strong the light show up, will depend on the solar activity and the speed at which these particles are coming toward the earth. This is one major factor as to why you may or may not see the Northern Lights during your trip.The color of the Northern Lights depends on the ionization of gases in the earth’s atmosphere when the charged particle (electrons) collides with them. The altitude at which the particles collide is a major factor as well.Because different gases are present at different altitudes and in varying concentrations, you might see only one color or many if the Northern Lights appear. Green is the most common color. You might also see blue, purple-ish, yellow, pink and even red.Red is normally associated with intense solar activity, which is rare, so you’ll be quite fortunate if you experience that. Best Time of Year to See the Northern Lights in Iceland Undoubtly, the best time of the year to see the Northern Lights in Iceland is during the winter. Northern Lights season officially kicks off in October and runs through March. During this time, we have long, dark nights and that provides ample opportunity to potentially see the lights. Please know that there is no guarantee you will see them, even during winter.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TeWycMNVm3M Why You Can't See the Northern Lights in Summer The reason you can’t see the Northern Lights in Iceland during summer (June, July and most of August) is because there is too much brightness. We experience 24-hour bright nights during the height of summer, and this makes it impossible to see Northern Lights in the sky.It isn’t that solar activity is necessarily any less or more during this time. One thing to note is that I have seen the Northern Lights in late August and September. However, because the days are still relatively long at that time, I normally just suggest visiting from October to March. Factors that Impact You Seeing the Northern Lights in Winter The factors that can impact you seeing the Northern Lights during the winter in Iceland are the weather, clouds, light pollution, and solar activity. Ideally, there are none or few clouds in the sky during the evening, relatively good weather,

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It seems that the eruption that started in early August in Meradalir valley on the Reykjanes Peninsula is already over! After about a month of volcanic activity and people flocking to the site to see an amazing display of molten hot lava spew from the earth, the show has coming to s screeching halt. It’s been a few weeks since there has been any detectable activity Meradalir Volcanic Eruption in Iceland was Short-Lived The eruption last year, which is pretty much right next to this one, lasted about six months. I know many people were hoping the eruption would last at least until the fall. The eruptions the last two years are considered “tourist eruptions” because they didn’t pose any threats to any towns and people could safely access them. Thousands of people visited the last two eruptions.I thoroughly enjoyed hearing and seeing people’s first reactions when they saw the lava spewing from the earth for the first time in lives. I remember the awe I felt the first time and I stopped in my tracks when I saw this one. If you can safely see an eruption in your lifetime, I highly recommend it. Meradalir Volcano Danger Alert Cancelled The Chief of State Police and the Chief of Suðurnes Police have decided to remove the danger alert connected to the Meradalir volcanic eruption due to no recorded unrest in the area. Visiting the Meradalir Volcano Site Since the Eruption Stopped Even though the eruption has stopped, authorities decided to finish paving the trail because the terrain was very rocky and long. While it is still long (about 14 km or 9 miles round trip), at least it so much easier to walk because it was a challenging terrain for many people.If you decide to still visit the eruption site to see the new earth that has formed, please DO NOT step on the new hardened lava. Authorities say that it’s still warm and that molten hot lava could still be underneath what looks like solid lava. It’s not Random Fact of the Episode People have been walking on the lava! It was shown on the news several times because people were shocked to see. Icelandic Word of the Episode Hraun – lava Share this Post Facebook Pinterest Twitter Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og lesa. Sjáumst fljótlega! Let's Be Social

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I’m focusing on F-roads in this episode because they provide access to parts of the country that most visitors to Iceland never see. While that might sound appealing to most people listening, driving on these roads are often challenging and can even be dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing.

I hit on this topic a little bit in my Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland episode. I recommend checking that episode out so you can be as prepared as possible when you go to book.

F-Road Table of Contents

What are F-Roads? Is it worth it to drive on F-Roads in Iceland? When Can You Access F-Roads in Iceland? What cars are allowed to drive on F-Roads? Not All 4WD Cars are Created Equal What Type of 4x4 is Right for Your Adventure in the Highlands? Where to Rent a 4WD Car in Iceland What to Check Before Heading Out on F-Roads What to Keep in Mind While Driving on an F-road How to Cross a River in Iceland My Favorite Places to Visit in the Icelandic Highlands

What are F-Roads? To start out, let’s talk about what F-roads are. The “F” stands for Fjallvegur in Icelandic, which translates to mountain road. The roads literally start with an F and are followed by a number. An example is F-910. These roads are not paved, are uneven, often have lots of potholes, and rocks (big and small). I’ve been on some F roads where it was not that challenging to drive on but later I encountered very large rocks and an uneven surface, so it required me to go much slower and maneuver carefully.

Many of these roads have rivers that you need to cross to get to your destination. I will share some tips on how to cross rivers safely in a little bit. Is it Worth It to Drive on F-Roads in Iceland? In my mind, it is so worth it, even if it is just a day trip into the Icelandic highlands. The raw beauty, varied landscape and lack of people make it so much fun to travel here. Of course, precaution and some planning is needed but such is life in Iceland.

When Can You Access F-Roads in Iceland? F-roads provide access to different parts of the Icelandic highlands, a large area of Iceland that is uninhabitable and where you can find raw, untouched nature. However, the roads are only open during the warmer months. When they open and close depends on the weather and if the road is passable due to snow, ice and/or storms.

The Icelandic Road and Coastal Administration determines each year when it is safe to open the roads. It is normally expected that the roads will open by late June. However, if we’ve had a particularly cold winter, it could be later.

Therefore, most people who want to travel into the highlands are advised to come in July or August. While it’s not a guarantee that the roads will be open at the beginning of July, it is a much more likely than earlier.

Here is a link to a page on road.is that shows the earliest, latest, and median for opening dates for F roads in the country.

While it all depends on weather, the closing of F-roads can be in September or mid-October. What Cars are Allowed to Drive on F-Roads? 4WD vehicles are the only things you should drive on an F-road for two reasons. The first is that 4WD are the only cars that are insured for this type of road.

If something were to happen to you in a 2WD on an F-road, you are responsible for the full cost of repairing or replacing the vehicle. The other reason is that the conditions of the road, including steep inclines, and crossing rivers require a car with 4WD. Not All 4WD Cars Are Created Equal Not all 4WD vehicles are created equal. First off, if you plan to cross rivers you need to a car with enough clearance underneath the car because we don’t flood the engine. Also, some 4WD cars have been modified for crossing very deep rivers like þjórsá, which you cross to get to Þórsmörk.

Some modifications you will see on 4WD are snorkels for the engine, huge tires, and sometimes even tires that can be inflated and deflated.

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Like the south of the country, north Iceland has plenty of amazing natural sites to visit. All of the places I’m sharing are free of charge and will provide hours, if not days, of fun activities. If you’re not familiar with north Iceland, there is a route up there called the Diamond Circle.If you think that sounds familiar, then you might be thinking of the Golden Circle, which is in the south. The Golden Circle came first and I have a theory about why the north has called this route the Diamond Circle but I’ll share that in the random fact of the episode.Personally, I love going north. There is a lot of gorgeous nature and one of my favorite places in the country is there. Don’t worry, I will be sharing about what that place is in this episode. If you are planning to visit north Iceland, I recommend staying over at least one night.I was on a road trip from Reykjavík, and I stayed over two nights but that is because I arrived late in the evening the first day. You can stay as long or short as you like, but just know that there is so much to see in the north and this list is just the tip of the iceberg. Go Car Rental Iceland – My Preferred Rental Car Company in Iceland Before I get into the stunning places in North Iceland that are worth visiting, I would like to thank the sponsor of this episode.I partnered with Go Car Rental Iceland to make this road trip to the north possible. Go Car Rental Iceland is an awesome local car rental company that has transparent pricing, great rates, unlimited mileage on their rentals, and friendly staff. They are my go-to company when I need a car for my adventures, which are many.I was delighted when one of my listeners of the podcast reached out to me via email after listening to the Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland to say that she had saved $400 by switching her rental from a company that is a big brand name around the world but has a franchise in Iceland, to Go Car Rental Iceland. The most amazing part is that she was able to get more features, like an additional, and extra insurance while still saving!I highly recommend booking with them. You can use my code Iceland10 to save 10% on your entire rental cost, which is a good deal of savings.

Must-See Places in North Iceland's Diamond Circle 1. Akureyri Akureyri is the known as the capital of the north. This stop is about a 4 and a half hour drive from Reykjavík.It’s the second largest urban area in the country and it has a population of 19,642. That’s according to Statistics Iceland data from January 1st, 2022.To put that into perspective, the population of people in the Reykjavík area is 135,688 according to the same source.Akureyri is such a lovely place to walk around and explore. Some fun things to do right in the center is walk downtown, which is easily walkable. You can visit Akureyrarkirkja, which is the church at the top of the hill. There are a decent number of steps if you want to reach the top if you are walking from the main street downtown. For those in a wheelchair or that have a hard time with steps, there is wheelchair accessible parking lot and entrance.You can also visit the botanical garden, take a dip in their epic swimming pool (it has one of the best slides!), walk along the shore and admire the gorgeous view of the fjord, attend a cultural event at the Hof culture center.

A Delicious Vegan Hot Dog in Akureyri If you are looking for some delicious food, I highly recommend Pylsuvagninn Akureyri and Brynjuís. Btw, I’m not sponsored by them or anything like that. I’m just going to both of these places.Pylsuvagninn Akureyri is a well-known hot dog stand in the center of town that sells delicious traditional and vegan Icelandic hot dogs! I was stunned to see that they have 8 vegan hot dog options on the menu. That is the most I've ever seen!One day, I plan to do a vegan Icelandic hot dog taste test showdown that includes all 8 b...

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As a native New Yorker that has traveled to a decent number of places in the United States before moving to Iceland in 2016, I’ve noticed some fascinating differences between the cultures.In this post, I’m pointing out 5 things about USA culture that confuses Icelanders. These are things I’ve specifically been asked by Icelanders about the US. Here are 5 Things that Confuse Icelanders About the USA 1. Only a Two-Party Political System in the USA Iceland and the USA have some similarities when it comes to government. For instance, both have split the government into three parts – legislative, judicial, and executive. However, it kind of ends there.On a federal level, the US is split into only two political parties, which is seen as very limiting by Icelanders. Icelandic Parliament is made up of 63 politicians but there are many different parties that make up the government.In fact, it is an important part of Icelandic Parliament for there to be multiple parties. Even as I have been living here, new parties have popped up and have been voted into Parliament.Currently, it seems almost impossible for new political parties to make it to the federal level of government in the US, which clearly confuses Icelanders.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8fO1O4a9LV4 2. Having different words for Niece, Nephew, Aunt, Uncle and Cousins This one has been funny to me because I never assumed that Icelanders wouldn’t have distinctive words to describe niece, nephew, aunt, cousins, and uncle. In Icelandic, these family members are grouped together by gender.For instance, the Icelandic word frændi is used to talk about an uncle, male cousins, or a nephew. The word frænka is used for aunt, female cousins, or a niece. When I speak to an Icelander in English and they are describing their mother’s brother, I will say “Oh, that’s your uncle” and they are like “Sure, or my frændi.” 3. Putting up signs and ropes where it is obviously dangerous Due to the variety of raw nature and intense weather conditions, Iceland can be a dangerous place. Icelanders grow up learning about respecting nature and to keep in mind that if you are not aware, that you can get yourself into a fatal situation.However, they expect people to use their common sense when it comes to exploring the country. For instance, not going too close to an edge of a cliff, or not stopping in the middle of the road to take photos.The explosion of tourism meant that Icelanders needed to start putting ropes and signs in places where it might seem like overkill. Because the USA is a litigious society, it has become a default to put up signs, ropes, and warnings even in places where it is obviously dangerous. While this does confuse Icelanders, they prefer for people to stay safe. 4. The Amount of Gun Violence in the USA But the Lack of Federal Gun Control Laws Surprisingly, there are a lot of guns in Iceland (about 70,000), which has a population of almost 370,000, but there is hardly any gun violence.One main reason for close to no gun violence in Iceland is that guns are seen as being used for hunting and sport, not for protecting yourself. The other main reason is that there are very strict gun laws here.To become a gun owner in Iceland, a person must take courses, pass a test, get a background check, and show that they know how to properly store the gun. There is not a federal law in the USA that controls who can and can’t be a gun owner.Not surprisingly, when Icelanders hear about the ongoing gun violence in the USA, they are confused why there are not stronger gun laws that govern the whole country. 5. Tipping in the USA In Iceland, people who work in the service industry are paid a living wage. It’s not encouraged to tip in Iceland, and it’s certainly not seen as a way to supplement a person’s wage so that an individual can pay their bills.Obviously, it is confusing to Icelanders that so many people in the US rely on tips to make ends meet.

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Hveradalir is one of Iceland’s largest geothermal areas, but it’s tucked away in Iceland’s highlands. To access anywhere in the highlands of this country, you must drive on F-roads, which are unpaved, rough and often require you to cross rivers.I’m planning to do a whole episode on F-roads because it’s important to understand how to navigate them safely, but just know that some rivers that run across F-roads are so deep that they can drown the engine if you don’t have a snorkel and a modified vehicle to cross them.Thankfully, access to Hveradalir geothermal area does not require a large river crossing. I dare to say that it is more like a small stream that you need to drive over but it’s totally doable for a regular 4x4 vehicle. My preferred Local Icelandic Rental Car Company - Go Car Rental Iceland Before I get into why Hveradalir is more than worth a visit, I would like to thank the sponsor of this episode. I partnered with Go Car Rental Iceland to drive into the highlands so you can see an example of an F-road and to feature a drop-dead gorgeous place that is easy to access in this part of the country.Go Car Rental Iceland is an awesome local car rental company that has transparent pricing, great rates, unlimited mileage on their rentals, and friendly staff. They are my go-to company when I need a car for my adventures.You can use my code Iceland10 to save 10% on your entire rental cost with them, which is a good deal of savings. The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland If you need a guide on what car to rent in Iceland and tips on what to know before, during, and after driving around the country, check out my Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland. It’s a thorough guide that has already helped one of my listeners to save $400 on their rental. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBOWnle7PdU Why Hveradalir Geothermal Area in Iceland is Worth Visiting Hveradalir geothermal area is nestled in the Kerlingarfjöll mountain range in the central highlands of Iceland. I also created a YouTube video that has a lot of insanely beautiufl drone shots, so feel free to check that out too.The various colors of Hveradalir – yellow, green, orange, and red – make this place look like a painting. But what really brings it to life is the steam rising from the earth and the warm water flowing throughout the area. All of it combines in a magical way that makes you feel like you stepped onto another planet. How to Get to Hveradalir Geothermal Area The most important thing to know is that you must drive a 4x4 vehicle for this adventure. The only way you can visit Hveradalir in a vehicle is if it’s a 4x4 because you must drive on the roads F-35 and F-347.Only 4x4 cars are insured for driving on F-roads in Iceland. If you drive a 2WD car there and something happens to your car, you are fully responsible for the cost of repairing or replacing it. I highly discourage you from taking that chance. F-35 road runs from north to south in the highlands, so you can access this place regardless of you drive from either of those directions.I used a lovely blue Jeep from Go Car Rental Iceland to get there from Reykjavík. In addition to the cool features in the car, I love blue, so that was a cool cherry on top.From Reykjavík to HveradalirIt takes 3.5 hours to access Hveradalir if you drive from ReykjavíkFrom Akureyri to HveradalirIt takes 4 hours from Akureyri, which is in north Iceland Spectacular Sites Along the Way to Hveradalir, If You Travel from Reykjavík If you are driving from Reykjavík, you take the same route for the Golden Circle, which includes Þingvellir National Park, Geysir hot spring, and Gullfoss waterfall.You can make a busy day out of it, if you have not been to the Golden Circle, and go to all these sites. Most people who drive this route stop at Gullfoss because they don’t have the appropriate car to keep going and/or they don’t know where the road that keeps going leads to.

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After thousands of earthquakes and lots of speculation, a new eruption has happened on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It’s in the same area as the eruption last year and it is not posing a threat to any people or towns. Well, that is the current situation. The authorities are constantly monitoring the site. People have been discouraged from going there because it’s not yet been deemed safe. However, people have shown up already.While there is no idea how long this eruption will last, it’s exciting that a new one has sprung up after this volcano had gone dormant. The eruption last year when on much longer than anyone expected. So, we shall see what happens.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHkwYIbdDII Have Proper Clothing for Visiting the Volcanic Eruption in Iceland Knowing what to pack when visiting Iceland is crucial, regardless of the season. It can get very cold on the hike to the volcano, so please make sure you have proper clothing and hiking boots.My Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland provides all the essentials you need to keep warm and dry on your adventures here. Donate to the Icelandic Search & Rescue Teams Iceland’s Search & Rescue Teams are volunteer organizations that help people who find themselves in any type of danger here. They were at the eruption last year and are at the new eruption now to monitor the gas levels and see what routes are safe for people to take to view it. If you would like to contribute to their trainings and equipment, you can donate to them directly here. Share This Post Facebook Email Twitter Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega (Thank you for listening and see you soon.) Let's Be Social

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I decided to focus on everything you need to know when renting a car in Iceland because I get a lot of questions about this from travelers. I did my best to be very thorough in this episode because there are so many things you need to keep in mind. For links or additional information, I recommend checking out the show notes of this episode below. Iceland Rental Car Guide Table of Contents

Is it Worth it to Rent a Car in Iceland? Go Car Rental Iceland When to Book Your Rental Car

Price comparison between seasons when renting a car in Iceland What is Needed to Rent a Car in Iceland Type of car that is right for your adventure Do you need extra insurance for your rental car in Iceland? Mileage limits

Picking Up Your Rental Car

Reykjavík or Keflavík? Inspecting the car before heading out

Driving Around Iceland

What to check before driving around the country Navigating Iceland by car Speed Limits in Iceland Speed Traps on the road What Happens When you Get a Speeding Ticket in Iceland Road Signs that are unique in Iceland Paying for Parking Tolls Roadside Assistance Fueling Up your rental car Summer vs Winter Driving Very Important to keep in Mind when driving in Iceland

Returning Your Rental Car Ways to Save Money When Renting a Car in Iceland

Is it worth it to rent a car in Iceland? As a person that loves to explore and do things at my own pace, renting a car is the best option for me. If that same feeling resonates with you, then you’ve come to the right post. I’ve broken this episode into different sections. First, I will go over when you should consider booking your car, then I talk about what to know when picking up your vehicle.

Next, is what is important for you to keep in mind while driving in Iceland. After that is what to do when returning your car, and lastly is ways in which you can save money when renting a car in Iceland.

Of course, I will also have my Icelandic word of the episode and random fact about Iceland sections at the very end. Go Car Rental Iceland – My Preferred Local Icelandic Rental Company Before I jump into the first section, I’d like to thank Go Car Rental Iceland for sponsoring this episode. They are a local car rental company based in the Reykjavík area. Some of my listeners who have been tuning into the show for a while know that I am picky about who I collaborate with because it‘s important that the company is reputable and will bring value to my audience.

I‘ve personally used Go Car Rental Iceland and I highly recommend them. They have transparent pricing, a great selection of vehicles, and are friendly. Get 10% off Your Entire Car Rental If you plan to rent with them, you can get 10% off your entire rental, which will save you a lot of money, when you use my code Iceland10. I‘ll be getting into the cost of car rentals in Iceland in this episode, but be sure to keep in that code in mind. When to Book a Rental Car in Iceland When to book your rental car in Iceland will, of course, come down to when you plan to visit. If you haven’t already booked your trip, then here is what I advise for you to think about. The peak season in Iceland is the summer (June, July, and August).

Because renting a vehicle allows you to have more freedom, many travelers choose this option, which means that the closer you get to the peak season, your choices of rental cars diminish quite a bit. Additionally, the cost of rental cars in Iceland is much higher during this time.

This is not meant to discourage you from coming to Iceland during summer, but I think it’s important for you to know. From September to May, there are usually more rental cars available, and they are not as expensive.

If you plan to rent a car during the summer here, I recommend booking your car as soon as you have that plane ticket. Some people get their tickets as early as six months ahead of time, but I find that most are booking withing a few months.

Due to COVID,

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Iceland, the land of fire and ice, is full of fascinating and sometimes strange facts. In this podcast episode, I’m sharing 15 surprising facts about this country that you probably have never heard about. I know that I was surprised by many of them when I first heard them, and I hope that you enjoy learning something new about the country. 15 Strange Facts About Iceland

Most of Iceland is uninhabited Beer was illegal in the country for 74 years During the month of Þorri, many Icelanders come together to eat the food of their ancestors, including fermented shark, ram’s testicles, sheepshead 24-hour bright days during the summer in Iceland. Here is a great graph of daylight hours in Reykjavik depending on what time of year you plan to visit. Long winter nights and hardly any daylight The first day of summer is in April and it is a national holiday If it weren’t for constant volcanic activity under Iceland that creates new land, the country would split in half There are over 130 words in Icelandic just to describe the wind No passenger train in Iceland but there was a train line once for a construction project No Uber or Lyft type of services in Iceland No McDonald’s Iceland won 3 wars against the British called The Cod Wars. You can listen to my episode about the Cod Wars here. The eruption of Laki in the 1700s resulted in a ton of ash was in the air and spread to many parts of Europe and even Africa! This ash cloud caused the global temperature to drop. Some think that this drop in temperature caused food shortages in France, which helped to ignite the French Revolution. At the sorcery and witchcraft museum, there is a replica of human skin pants that were said to have been made by sorcerers who wanted to be wealthy. Only about 10% of the country is covered in Iceland

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_DTHHz9GcI Icelandic Word of the Episode Skrítinn - weird or strange Share This Post Facebook Email Twitter

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Karítas Hrundar Pálsdóttir is the author of Ástiðir and Dagatal, two books about short stories in Icelandic. In this interview we talk about how short stories in various levels of Icelandic help learners of the language to learn faster and easier.Karítas is currently pursuing her Ph.D in Creative Writing in the U.K. and was a teacher of Icelandic. She has learned Japanese, so she has an idea about the trials and tribulations that language learning students go through. In fact, her idea for publishing these books came when she was teaching Icelandic. She even tested out many of the stories on her students to see how impactful they were as the students studied the language Questions I asked Karítas Hrundar Pálsdóttir What inspired you to write Ástiðir and Dagatal?What was it like studying Japanese?What challenges did you notice your students faced while learning Icelandic?What advice do you have for people learning Icelandic?What is your favorite Icelandic Word or Phrase? Connect With Karítas You can connect with Karítas on Instagram.Here is where you can purchase Ástiðir.Here is where you can purchase Dagatal Share This Post Facebook Email Twitter Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega(Thank you for listening and see you later) Let’s Be Social

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The south coast of Iceland is, hands down, one of the most popular areas of the country for visitors. However, there are a group of islands off the mainland of the country that most people that go to the south coast never visit. The Westman Islands is a 45–50-minute ferry ride away and it’s a fantastic place to explore. The nature, history, landscape, and stories about the locals almost make it feel like you are not even in Iceland anymore. KuKu Campers Provided My Transportation & Accommodations I was fortunate to partner with Kuku Campers for this episode. Kuku Campers is a campervan company that provides campers of various sizes. I specifically used the AA Campervan because it is large enough for two adults but the width is small enough to fit in the ferry to the Westman Islands along with regular cars. It was great to have my accommodations and transport all in one place because it gave me flexibility regarding when I decided to sleep, eat and so on.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ekv4ulYRI4I The Campsite on Heimaey on the Westman Islands The campsite on Heimaey (home island), is lovely and it was so easy/affordable to stay there. It was 1700 ISK per person. You have access to several bathrooms, showers, and a communal kitchen. I was pleasantly surprised at how clean everything was and the camping area itself is gorgeous. It looks like a naturally made amphitheater.

That isn’t surprising considering the fact that the biggest Icelandic festival of the year, Þjóðhátíð, happens here over the Verslunarmannahelgi (merchant weekend). This year the holiday falls on Monday, August 1st, so it is the last weekend of July. 7 Reasons to Visit the Westman Islands As the title of this podcast episode explains, there are at least seven reasons to visit. Granted, there are more but here are the ones that come to mind for me.

The Ferry ride over to Heimaey is so much fun. After you park your car in the bottom of the ferry, you can go upstairs and outside to wave goodbye to mainland Iceland. As the ferry gets closer to Heimaey, you can see the other islands that make up the Westman Islands. There are 15 islands surrounding the home island but only Heimaey (home island) is actually inhabited. It is hard to explain just how gorgeous this ferry ride is and I hope you get a chance to experience it. Eldefell Volcano erupted in 1973 and caused a lot of destruction on the island. It also change the landscape of Heimaey. You can hike up this volcano, which still has heat coming up through the ground. The color duing the summer is a gorgeous red and is surrounded by a vibrant green color of moss and grass. Eldheimar Museum is absolutely fascinating. It was built around a house that was excavated after it was buried in ash during the eruption. You get to see that people on the island had no time to prepare for this eruption. It happened during the night, and people had to literally jump out of bed, put on shoes, and their coats and run out to get on boats so they could get off the island. The museum is eerie and hauntingly beautiful. Thankfully, no one died during the eruption, and many people who were originally living there came back to clean up and live on Heimaey. Gaujalundur is an elf garden on Heimaey that was fun to walk around. It was created by a woman named Gauja, who was said to be able to communicate with elves. She created the this garden to protect their homes, which are large rocks that have been roped off. It was fun to walk around this nicely manicured garden. In the Skansinn area, there is an an all black church called Stafkirkjan or Stave Church. It was an gift from the Norwegians to Iceland in the year 2000 to celebrate 1000 years of Christianity. I highly recommend walking around the church and checking it out. In this same area, you can see a water tower that was mostly destroyed during the eruption but one part of the wall is still standing. It‘s cool and bizarre to see.

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From personal experience, I know that having the right clothing and other essentials, regardless of the season here, is crucial when it comes to staying warm, dry, and comfortable.

While I am sharing 11 summer essentials to pack for Iceland in this episode, you can find all of the essentials and some non-essentials that might be worth packing, if you have the space, in my free download called the Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland.

The way I have structured this episode is that I will share about the weather here during the summer, because that is a major factor when it comes to what you should pack. Then I will go into the essentials. Lastly, I will share an Icelandic phrase and a random fact of the episode. Shout Out To A Reviewer of the Podcast Listened to this podcast throughout my entire trip to Iceland. So helpful! I wouldn’t have gone to the Blue Lagoon if I hadn’t listened to this- and I loved it!!

Informative and helpful! Miajmu

Summer weather in Iceland – What to Expect The summer season means long, bright days and warmer weather. You can experience the midnight sun (24-hour brightness) in June, July and part of August. Even if you don't visit during those months, the country enjoys considerably longer days from early April to early September.

The average temperature in southern Iceland during the summer ranges from 10-13 ̊ Celsius (50-55 ̊ Fahrenheit). Some days the temperature might even go up to 25 ̊ Celsius (77 ̊ Fahrenheit) but that is considered a very warm day in Iceland and is quite rare.

To be safe, it is better to plan for the average temperature or a little lower, and be pleasantly surprised if better weather occurs.

Intense wind and rainstorms can happen during summer, so a water- proof outer layer is a must on your checklist.

This time of the year is my favorite because the bright days allow for you to go on so many adventures out in nature.

*Please not that there are some affiliate links in this post. If you choose to buy any items after clicking a link, I make a small commission that is at not cost to you. Essentials to Pack for Summer in Iceland

Layers

Base - top layer to wick away moisture and hiking pants mid - Icelandic Lopapeysa outer layers - Rain/wind Protection

Swimwear Hiking boots Sleep Mask Reusable water bottle Sunscreen Sun glasses Day Pack Lip balm with spf Travel outlet adapter Fly net

Icelandic word of the episode Ævintýri – adventure Random Fact of the Episode According to the Icelandic Meteorological Office the highest temperature ever recorded in Iceland was 36°C (96.8°C) at Teigarhorn farm in Berufjörður fjord in East Iceland on September 24 1940. This measurement, however, has been disputed and the highest undisputed measurement took place at Teigarhorn on June 22 1939: A balmy 30.5°C (86.9°F).

I find this information in an article by Iceland Mag, which was published back in 2017. Because I have been living in Iceland since 2016, I am aware that this record has not been broken yet. Ásgarður tier shout out from My Patreon

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Patrons in the Áasgarður tier on my Patreon get a shoutout from me on the podcast, among other awesome perks, like a 30-minute live video group chat with me each month. If you would like to support All Things Iceland by becoming a Patreon member, check out the link in my show notes.

Just a reminder that if you are planning a trip to Iceland, I highly recommend grabbing my free Iceland Ultimate Packing Checklist. I have split it into two lists, one for winter and one for summer, so you are covered regardless of when you plan to visit. Let's Be Social

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June marks my 6th year of living in Iceland and it has certainly been a whirlwind of a year.

Every year I try to reflect on what has happened and share what might be relevant or interesting for my audience. Interestingly, six seems to be a significant number in my life. For instance, my birthday is 160686, my phone number has a lot of sixes in it and even my new apartment block has the number 6.

It‘s possible that these have nothing to do with each other but it is still fun to point that out while I am celebrating six years of being here. How My Work /Career in Iceland Has Changed All Things Iceland is my full-time job and it has been so fun and challenging to navigate this country as an entrepreneur. The tax situation was a shock at first but I think I have a handle on it now. Well, at least my accountant does! As I build relationships with individuals and companies, I find my connection to this country deepening.

As I have grown on platforms, I find it amazing how awesome my community is. All of you are such supportive, fun people that engage in respectful ways and I’m so grateful for that. TikTok is new for me but that is now where most Icelanders recognize me, which is kind of bizarre but I embrace it.

I have a lot of things I’m developing that will be helpful resources for travelers and I look forward to sharing those soon

While it can be easy to only talk about the positive aspects, I do have to say there are cons too, such as getting overwhelmed, working non-stop, hardly ever taking a vacation, and trying to balance having a life with work. I’m still adjusting to all of this but I know it takes time to find what works best for me.

Photo by Art Bicnick My Progress Learning Icelandic This topic has been one that I have talked about on and off over the years. While my understanding, speaking and writing continue to improve and evolve, I still do not consider myself to be fluent.

One reason for the stall in progress there is that I’ve been so focused on All Things Iceland. In addition, I’ve stopped being so hard on myself when it comes to learning.

Part of what makes learning Icelandic interesting to me is that I allow for it to be fun and casual. I also have enough knowledge to use it in conversations. I will admit that I do feel it is necessary for me to keep learning and I plan to get to a level of fluency that satisfies me. What I mean by that is that I can have complex conversations in Icelandic easily.

Some years ago it would have been difficult for me to admit this to people but now I embrace the fact that my language journey is not linear. There is no shame in not being perfect at it, and I think it is so important to be open and honest about what the process can be like for some people.

Adapting to Icelandic Society Luckily, I’ve always felt like it was the right decision for me to move to Iceland. It definitely feels like home and I am well aware of most of the traditions. The fun thing now is that I get to dive deeper. For instance, I was in the Westman Islands recently, and I had such an amazing time getting shown around by some locals. This island off the coast of mainland Iceland has a lot going on, just like the different regions of the country.

It's funny how highlighting a specific place allows me to expand my knowledge about Iceland in profound ways. One of the things I plan to dive into, especially regarding the Westman Islands, is talking to locals there that had to flee the island during the 1973 volcanic eruption of Eldfell. I love that part of this work and I can’t wait to share those stories in the future.

Photo by Tida Svy What’s Next for My Journey in Iceland Summer has just begun and I have already traveled a decent amount, but that is just the beginning for me. I have so many episode ideas and trip planning tips to share, so keep a lookout for that.

Over on Instagram, I share a lot of short videos (reels) about Iceland,

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Moving to Iceland is already quite a tedious process for most people but coming with pets is an extra layer of paperwork and other potential difficulties. Sharyn Chesna was born and raised in the US but she also has German citizenship (you’ll learn the fascinating story behind her finding that out when you listen to episode).When she decided to move to Iceland it was a no-brainer that her two dogs and cat would come too. Sharyn was willing to do whatever it took to make that happen and she did have to do a lot just so her fur babies could safely enter the country without any hiccups. Why it is Hard to Move Pets to Iceland? During this episode, Sharyn shares every step of the process and even reveals that she almost didn’t get to bring her pets because of a mistake in the paperwork by her Vet in the US. The extra layer on top was that she did this during COVID, which undoubtedly added to the stress.For those wondering, it is not feasible or advised to bring your pets on vacation with you to Iceland because the process is quite a lot and the pets have to be in quarantine for at least two weeks.

Thank you so much to Sharyn for sharing her experience about what it is like to move pets to Iceland. I hope this helps people that are planning to move or who have been wondering what it would take to do the same.If you want to connect with Sharyn, you can follow/contact her on Instagram @mutts_on_a_mission Share this Awesome Content Think that someone would beneift from seeing this content? Share it with them. :-) Facebook Email Twitter

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In partnership with the Icelandic Bathing Culture Exhibit hosted at Hönnurnarsafn, the Icelandic Museum for Design and Applied Arts, I’m sharing how Iceland’s beloved bathing culture evolved.

Sund, which is the name of the Icelandic Bathing Exhibit, shares fascinating facts. One of my favorites is that a failed gold rush in Iceland is what led to geothermal energy being pumped to communal swimming pools and people’s homes in the early 1900s.

What to Expect at The Icelandic Bathing Culture Exhibit The combination of history and interactive stations provides a fun and insightful experience into how Icelanders built pools for survival and hygiene but later evolved the use of them into foster community and well-being.

The bathing culture exhibition is available to check out until October 23rd, 2022, so I highly recommend putting it on your list of places to visit.

https://youtu.be/O_Dp_jgIWHI Interviewing the Director of Hönnunarsafn During my interview for this podcast episode with Sigríður Sigurjónsdóttir, Director of Hönnunarsafn, we talk about why it was important to have this exhibition and other topics relating to Icelandic bathing culture.

Here are some of the questions I asked Sigríður about the Iceland Bathing Culture Exhibition:

Why was it important to create an exhibition about Icelandic bathing culture? Did anything surprise you while helping to curate the exhibition? What impact has Icelandic swimming pools had on you personally? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

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Easter in Iceland is a time that many Icelanders look forward to because they get a long holiday, and they get to indulge in even more chocolate, sugary drinks, and delicious food. Here is what you should know before visiting during this holiday. Religion in Iceland For most people around the world that celebrate Easter, this holiday is very religious. While more than 260,000 Icelanders are registered as Lutheran, most of them are not religious nor is Easter in Iceland centered around religious activities.

Keep in mind that there are about 377,000 people that live in the country. One of the reasons many Icelanders are registered as Lutheran, is that it used to be that as soon as a person was born in the country, they were automatically registered to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland. Weather to Expect & Clothes to Pack It’s important to understand that Spring in Iceland is about the days getting longer and not about blooming flowers or even the weather being that much warmer. I suggest packing clothing that is appropriate for winter. If you need help with what to pack, you can download my free Ultimate Packing Checklist. It has individual lists for summer and winter. Seeing the Northern Lights Around Easter in Iceland It is possible to see the Northern Lights during March and April. However, as the days continue to get longer and brighter, the possibility of seeing them diminishes greatly. It helps to check the Icelandic Meteorological Office’s page about the level of Aurora activity here. Even during the darkest days of winter, it’s not guaranteed that you will see them. It helps to keep that in mind, so you can manage your expectations Easter Traditions in Iceland

There is a 5-day weekend, which is quite nice. We get off on Maundy Thursday until Easter Monday. Most Icelanders take this time to go north for as nice skiing holiday or even go abroad. One of the biggest parts of Easter here is buying giant Icelandic chocolate eggs that are hollow on the inside so they can be stuffed with candy and an Icelandic proverb. Páskaöl or Easter drink is essentially malt and orange soda (appelsín) mixed. Icelanders consume a lot of this over the holiday. It’s non-alcoholic but filled with a lot of sugar. Easter dinner is normally lamb, green peas, picked red cabbage, caramelized sugar potatoes, corn, salad, and mushroom gravy. Some people add or take away some things but what I mentioned is pretty much what most Icelanders eat. Of course, there is some type of dessert. Because I‘m plant-based, I eat a vegan wellington in place of the lamb and a vegan chocolate egg The growth of microbreweries in Iceland continues to expand. Páskabjór (Easter beer) is very popular for this holiday, so I highly recommend trying a variety of beers, if you drink alcohol. Please note that you have to go to the government owned alcohol stores to buy alcohol in Iceland, if you are not getting it at a bar or restaurant. These stores are closed every weekend and every national holiday. So, they are closed on the Thursday and Friday before Easter, as well as the Monday after Easter.

You can purchase the food I mentioned and chocolate eggs in Iceland in any of the major grocery stores, such as Krónan, Bónus, Hagkaup, and Nettó, but alcohol has to be purchased at a vínbúðin. Important things to keep in mind as a visitor Due to the long holiday, many stores are either closed or have limited hours. I highly recommend checking websites of places to see what their hours will be during Easter. Easter mug on the All Things Iceland merch shop If you would like an adorable Icelandic Easter themed gift for you or a loved on this season, check out the Easter mug on the All Things Iceland Merch shop. Festivals Happening during Easter in Iceland

Aldrei fór ég suður – This annual festival is held in Ísafjörður in the Westfjords during Easter weekend. The Icelandic artist Mugison, who I interviewed years ago,

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Kyana Sue Powers is an American content creator that lives in Iceland. She's inspired many people to visit Iceland and has even inspired some to move. Due to strict Icelandic laws regarding specialty work visas, Kyana is potentially facing deportation. In this interview, Kyana shares how to she ended up in Iceland and the situation she is currently in. Questions I Asked Kyana During the Interview:

What inspired you to move to Iceland? What has the process been like for you to live here? What visas have you needed to stay in the country? How long did it take you to feel like you adjusted to living here? Can you give some insight into why the immigration office says that you need to leave Iceland? How can people help to keep you in the country? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9o5T_wIxg2U How You Can Help Kyana If you want to support Kyana by helping her stay in the country, here is a petition.

Also, here is the documentary that she mentioned in the interview.

Her Instagram and Tiktok handles are @kyanasue Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Contrary to what most people believe, Iceland has a lot of options for people who identify as vegan or plant-based eaters. I remember being astonished at the options in the grocery stores during my first visit back in 2013. Funny enough, that was the first time I’d heard about Veganuary (vegan January). Icelanders who normally eat meat were excited to take on the challenge of only eating vegan food for the whole month of January. This meant that grocery stores in the country had ordered vegan friendly foods to meet the demand.

In this podcast episode, I share an astonishing fact about the vegan only grocery store in Reykjavík and list out places for people to eat.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vzZFTPEsM_I Vegan Only Restaurants in Reykjavík Vegan World Peace

Junkyard

Loving Hut

Mama Reykjavík

Mr. Joy

Cat Cafe (Kattakaffíhús)

Granólabarinn

Jömm (they are looking for a new location for their restaurant) Restaurants that cater to vegan and non-vegan people in groups This is not an exhaustive list. Rather, it is a list of places I like a lot.

Duck and Rose

Punk

Monkeys

Kól

Flóran Bistro

Spíran

Laundromat Cafe

Sumac Share this post I hope you enjoyed this episode. If so, please share it with someone you think would also enjoy it.

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April Anderson is the Director, editor, and cinematographer of the documentary “Fire & Iceland”, a beautiful collection of the eruption and insight from locals about the impact of the eruption and living on an island with so much volcanic activity.

April and her husband are the creators of www.artasair.com, which showcases various artists and aspect of culture. I recommend checking out their site to see other documentaries and work they have done over the years. See the “Fire and Iceland” Documentary for Free on March 20th, 2022 To cap off “Eruption Week”, I’m hosting a free watch party of the “Fire & Iceland: Art, Culture & Chasing Lava” documentary on Sunday, March 20th, 2022 on my YouTube channel. This is a one-time free showing on my channel because I will delete it afterwards. If you want to watch along with me, you must be at the premiere of it.

Normally, you must pay for the documentary, and you can watch it at any time by purchasing it on Vimeo or Prime Video.

To be notified of the time and to get the link, sign up for my newsletter. I will send out the time and link on Friday evening. Donate to the Icelandic Search & Rescue Team Since viewing the documentary is being made available for free, if you feel inclined to, you can donate directly to the Icelandic Search and Rescue team. They are a 100% volunteer-led non-profit, non-commercial organization in the country that works tirelessly to help save lives and keep all of us safe. The reason so many of us were able to safely see the eruption is because of them.

If you can donate to their organization, it would be greatly appreciated. The link to donate is to their Paypal account, so they will get the money directly. The link is also here – https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=EKX6MUYPP7AGA&source=url

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lY7C3_p454 Questions I asked April During the Interview

Before we jump into the documentary, it is part of the Art as Air project. Can explain a little bit about the Art as Air project? What inspired you to make the Fire & Iceland documentary about the Geldingadalur eruption that started on March 19th 2021? There is a guy in the documentary that went to the eruption 67 times. How many times did you go? Instead of basing the documentary around the volcano itself, there is a much wider focus on Icelandic people and the “volcanic culture”. Different perspectives, like from members of the Icelandic Search & Rescue teams, geologists, artists, even Valur – who is editor in Chief at the Reykjavik Grapevine, is in it, as well as local people. Why was it important to capture that culture here? What impact did the eruption have on you as a creator and person? Was there anything in the documentary that surprised as you looked back over footage or while you filmed the interviews? Do you have any favorite behind the scenes moments while shooting? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Share this episode If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review or rating on whichever platform you are on.

Also, please share this with someone that you think would enjoy it what is coming up for eruption week.

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Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove is an award-winning photographer and author of the book “New Earth: A Photographic Journey of the Geldingadalur Eruption.” He is a Belgian nature photographer, who specializes in photographing wildlife and landscapes with great passion.

He has been living in Reykjavik, Iceland since 2016 and uses it as his base to explore and capture the raw beauty of the land of fire and ice and the Arctic region in its entirety. Why did Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove Move to Iceland? In Jeroen’s own words “Why not move to Iceland?” Of course, an interview of a foreign national is not complete without asking what led that person to move to Iceland. Jeroen talks about how he followed a feeling inside of him.

It’s amazing how some people move to this country solo and just figure it out. As you will hear in the interview, he just knew that this was the right decision for him. Why Jeroen visited the Geldingadalir Volcanic Eruption 44 Times It boggled my mind when I found out that Jeroen visited the volcanic eruption close to 50 times! What is even more remarkable is that he hiked for 46 out of the 47 times that he went.

During the podcast episode he talks about why he chose to hike the majority of the time, the intensely challenging conditions he faced, the epic shots he was able to capture and the impact the eruption had on him.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=drYevt9UlfA A Lifelong Dream Fulfilled That Turned into a Book Since the time he could remember, Jeroen has wanted to see a volcanic eruption up close. He was unable to see the huge Holuhraun eruption back in 2014 due to unfavorable weather conditions. When the eruption happened on the Reykjanes Peninsula he just knew that this was his chance. It was fascinating to hear him talk about the excitement he felt when he saw the eruption for the first time, and how he worked to make capturing it interesting for himself every time he went.

Most people that decide to write a book take a year or more. You will be astonished to hear the short amount of time it took Jeroen to put together and publish his photographic journey of capturing this insanely beautiful natural phenomenon. Where to Connect with & Buy Jeroen's Book If you want to follow, connect with and/or buy Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove’s book, use the links below:

Jeroen's website: https://jvn.photo Jeroen's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jvn.photo/ Jeroen's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jvnphotographer Jeroen's book: https://jvn.photo/newearth Jeroen's book on the RVK Grapevine: https://shop.grapevine.is/collections/photography-books/products/new-earth-a-photographic-journey-of-the-geldingadalir-eruption

See the “Fire and Iceland” Documentary for Free on March 20th, 2022 To cap off “Eruption Week”, I’m hosting a free watch party of the “Fire & Iceland: Art, Culture & Chasing Lava” documentary on Sunday, March 20th, 2022 on my YouTube channel. This is a one-time free showing on my channel because I will delete it afterwards. If you want to watch along with me, you must be at the premiere of it.

Normally, you must pay for the documentary, and you can watch it at any time by purchasing it on Vimeo or Prime Video

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March 19th, 2022 marks the one year anniversary of the start of the Geldingadalir eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula. The eruption lasted six months and, according to scientists, is the longest eruption of this century in Iceland! To commemorate this momentous occasion, I am hosting “Eruption Week” on the All Things Iceland YouTube channel and here on the podcast. The Eruption Week Schedule https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1gujgzJRf0UThroughout this week, I will feature interviews that I did with two creators who documented the beauty, power, and impact of the Geldingadalir volcanic eruption. The first interview to be published is with Jeroen Van Nieuwenhove. He is a professional photographer from Belgium that has resided in Iceland since 2016. He recently published a book called “New Earth: A Photographic Journey of the Geldingadalir Eruption.” Not surprisingly, the images in it are stunning. While there is not a lot of text, what he does write is captivating and takes you along on the journey he embarked on to document the volcano during the forty-four visits that he made.The second interview is with April Anderson. She is the cinematographer, editor, and director of the documentary “Fire & Iceland: Art, Culture & Chasing Lava.” This documentary is visually stunning and gives amazing insight into Icelandic culture and mindset about living on an island with such volatile nature. See the “Fire and Iceland” Documentary for Free on March 20th, 2022 To cap off “Eruption Week”, I’m hosting a free watch party of the “Fire & Iceland: Art, Culture & Chasing Lava” documentary on Sunday, March 20th, 2022 on my YouTube channel. This is a one-time free showing on my channel because I will delete it afterwards. If you want to watch along with me, you must be at the premiere of it.Normally, you must pay for the documentary, and you can watch it at any time by purchasing it on Vimeo or Prime VideoTo be notified of the time and to get the link, sign up for my newsletter. I will send out the time and link on Friday evening. Donate to the Icelandic Search & Rescue Team Since viewing the documentary is being made available for free, if you feel inclined to, you can donate directly to the Icelandic Search and Rescue team. They are a 100% volunteer-led non-profit, non-commercial organization in the country that works tirelessly to help save lives and keep all of us safe. The reason so many of us were able to safely see the eruption is because of them.If you can donate to their organization, it would be greatly appreciated. The link to donate is to their Paypal account, so they will get the money directly. The link is also here - https://www.paypal.com/donate/?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=EKX6MUYPP7AGA&source=url Share this episode If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review or rating on whichever platform you are on.Also, please share this with someone that you think would enjoy it what is coming up for eruption week. Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Gerog Leite is Afro-Brazilian and came to Iceland way back when he was 16 years old. I witnessed first-hand his gregarious nature during my first visit to Kaldi Bar, a place he owns and manages, many years ago. It’s funny how I wondered about his story as I watched him from afar chatting with people at the bar. Little did I know that one day I would have the pleasure of interviewing him for the All Things Iceland podcast. Georg’s Transition From Brazil to Iceland During the conversation, Georg describes what led him to choose Iceland as a teenager and what it was like for him to adjust to a place that is pretty much the exact opposite of where he grew up in Brazil. Along with adjusting to life here, we discuss how his family back in Brazil reacted to him choosing to live in the land of fire and ice. Georg’s journey learning the Icelandic language One of my absolute favorite parts of this interview is hearing about his journey learning Icelandic. It always delights me when people just allow themselves to jump headfirst into challenging situations. Iceland was a very different place when he moved back in 2002, but the fact remains the same – Icelandic can be hard to learn but it is doable. This is something I often remind myself of because somedays it feels rough. A Multi-talented Creator & Entrepreneur On top of owning Kaldi Bar, my favorite bar in downtown Reykjavík, Georg is a talented photographer that published the gorgeous book called “New Faces of Iceland”, which features portraits of Icelanders with mixed heritage. It shows the amazing and diverse cultures that have merged into Icelandic society. He is also an actor, and model. Seriously, he is majorly talented and treats everyone like a close friend.If you enjoyed this interview with Georg, I encourage you to follow him on Instagram and share this interview with someone you think would enjoy it. Share This Post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Even though the Health Minister had hinted at removing all restrictions, I honestly didn‘t think it would happen now because of the continued high rate of infections in the country. In the last couple of weeks, the number of new COVID cases has broken records. We have seen numbers way higher than when the pandemic started. Yet, Icelandic Parliament, along with the Chief Epidemiologist, have decided to lift all restrictions. Reactions to Lifting of COVID Restrictions in Iceland In this episode, I go over how people are feeling in Iceland about this decision. There are some who are rejoicing, while there are some that are nervous. The most vocal people that are rejoicing are those in the hospitality and travel sector. It has been a rough two years for them, and they are hoping that going back to pre-pandemic life will mean a revival of their businesses. What the Lifting of Restrictions Means for Travelers to the Country As of now, there is no obligation to take a test when you land in the country, no quarantine or isolation is required as well. Regardless of your vaccination status, you can enter Iceland without issue. PCR tests are no longer readily available. If you need to take a COVID test, you still have the rapid test (antigen) one available.

You are also not obligated to wear masks or keep your distance from people. If you do feel sick and test positive for COVID, it is recommended that you isolate but that is not being enforced. Basically, you can enter and travel around freely in the country.

Additionally, you do not have to pre-register on covid.is nor do you need to present a vaccination certificate at the border. Why Has Iceland Lifted All Restrictions When the Virus is still widespread? Below is a quote from this article on RÚV English regarding Iceland has concluded lifting all restrictions:

The memo to the minister from chief epidemiologist Þórólfur Guðnason states that the rate of serious illness has not risen in line with the wide spread of the virus in society. Þórólfur believes that 80 percent of the population will have had the virus by around mid-March, and that this will be the likely threshold for good herd immunity. The massive spike in new infections has nevertheless cause significant problems for the health service; with more people being admitted to hospital, and a very large number of health workers off with the virus—thereby threatening basic services.”

Depending on how the next couple of weeks turn out, it could be that the decision to lift all restrictions still stands or that the government takes different action. We shall see.

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Tryggvi Rúnar jr is named after his grandfather, who is one of the wrongly accused and convicted individuals in Iceland’s most infamous criminal investigation. In 1974, two men, on separate occasions, went missing and their bodies were never found. The police scrambled to figure out what happened to Guðmundur Einarsson and Geirfinnur Einarsson (not related). I watched the Netflix series Out of Thin Air, which gives more background about what Tryggvi talks about during this interview. Coercion & Intense Interrogation to Get Confessions After intense interrogations and mistreatment, including being put in solitary confinement for years, six people confessed and were convicted for kidnapping, killing, and disposing of the bodies of these two men. This was without any forensic evidence or the bodies of these two men. Finally, in 2018 five out of the six falsely convicted people were exonerated.

In this episode, you will hear how Tryggvi Rúnar Jr grew up around his grandfather but was completely unaware of his past as a petty criminal and wrongly convicted person. His experience of his grandfather was only one of a caring, gentle, and giving older man that loved him. Tryggvi, his family, the others convicted and their families, have been fighting the Icelandic justice system for years. As I mentioned earlier, five out of the six were exonerated. While that is great, it took over 40 years for justice, and Erla's name has still not been cleared.

I think a story like this sheds light on the fact that someone’s past doesn’t have to define how they act in the future. Also, “once a criminal, always a criminal” is a harsh and unfair label that can lock people into a vicious cycle of criminal behavior because they haven’t been able to reintegrate back into society. The Icelandic Government’s Involvement The other aspect to this interview that intrigued me to no end is the involvement of the Icelandic government. The current Prime Minister, Katrín Jakóbsdóttir acknowledged there was wrongdoing regarding the case and investigation. However, she has never directly apologized to the families on behalf of the Icelandic government. Tryggvi Rúnar explains this in detail during the interview. Admittingly, I was shocked to hear that because this seems like such a cut and dry thing to do.

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As I approach my sixth year of living in Iceland, it is fascinating to take a trip down memory lane and talk about what has happened leading up to me living here. Because some people have asked how my family felt about me moving to Iceland, I decided to let them tell you. During this episode, I conducted a virtual interview with my sister and mother. They both get a chance to share with you what their feelings from the beginning of me meeting Gunnar up until now.

Some of the things they shared gave me better insight into how they felt back then. Plus, it was so much fun to have them as guests on the show. Over the years, I think we have all adjusted to live many thousands of miles away from each other. Technology has been such a gift for our family because we can easily stay in touch. My Mom Endured Empty Nest Syndrome When I Moved to Iceland While I am not yet a parent, I have a greater appreciation for my mom expressing her empty bird nest syndrome that happened when I moved. We were so close (still are), so moving was an adjustment that both of us had to mentally prepare for. I distinctly remember crying at the airport on the day when I was finally moving. I wasn’t expecting to burst into tears but when I saw my mom crying, I couldn’t help it. As you might have heard in previous episodes, I’ve never felt home sick for the US, but I always look forward to when my family comes to visit or when I go to them.

How We Coped with Such a Big Change My sister, who now lives in Texas, has always been quite the jokester and you will hear that in this episode. I think all of us use laughter and comedy when discussing difficult topics because it helps us to ease the pain. Change can be difficult, and me moving to Iceland was certainly a major adjustment for everyone. On top of that, I created All Things Iceland, which is a topic we discuss too.

I’m proud that as a family we have weathered many storms, supported each other in our individual endeavors, and continue to stay connected. I hope you this bit of insight into my family’s feelings about me living in Iceland. Feel free to share your comments or stories about you moving abroad in the comments. Share This Post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Today is the last day of the All Things Iceland 15-day Christmas series. To hear about the Icelandic Yule Lads that have arrived during this time period, and an overview of this series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 7, Day 8, Day 9, Day 10, Day 11, Day 12, Day 13 and Day 14.

This episode dives into what happens to the Icelandic Yule Lads after Christmas. Below is the Icelandic and English version of the last part of the poem by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic poem about the Yule Lads Á sjálfa jólanóttina, -sagan hermir frá,- á strák sínum þeir sátu og störðu ljósin á.

Svo tíndust þeir í burtu, -það tók þá frost og snjór. Á Þrettándanum síðasti sveinstaulinn fór.

Fyrir löngu á fjöllunum er fennt í þeirra slóð. -En minningarnar breytast, í myndir og ljóð. English poem about the Yule Lads On Christmas night itself – so a wise man writes – the lads were all restraint and just stared at the lights.

Then one by one they trotted off into the frost and snow. On Twelfth Night the last of the lads used to go.

Their footprints in the highlands are effaced now for long, the memories have all turned to image and song. Icelandic Christmas tradition On this day, which is Christmas eve for many in the US, Icelanders have the tradition of getting dressed up and sitting down for dinner at 6 PM.

The main staples of the meal are usually boiled and sugared potatoes, green peas from a can, pickled red cabbage that also might be from a can, corn, laufabrauð, and some type of meat dish. My mother in law always has ptarmigan or rjúpa (which is a type of bird), but others might have beef, lamb, glazed ham or turkey.

It really depends on the family. After dinner, there is of course dessert. Later on you open gifts. Most people get a book for Christmas, so they usually go off and read their book at the end of the night.

Starting on December 25th, the Yule Lads start to make their way back to the mountains one by one each day. The last official day of Christmas in Iceland is January 6th. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Kertasníkir, the 13th and final Yule Lad, comes to town - the favorite among Icelanders. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 7, Day 8, Day 9, Day 10, Day 11, Day 12 and Day 13.

Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Kertasníkir by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the poem about Kertasníkir Þrettándi var Kertasníkir, -þá var tíðin köld, ef ekki kom hann síðastur á aðfangadagskvöld.

Hann elti litlu börnin, sem brostu glöð og fín, og trítluðu um bæinn með tólgarkertin sín. English version of the poem about Kertasníkir The thirteenth was Candle Beggar – ´twas cold, I believe, if he was not the last of the lot on Christmas Eve.

He trailed after the little ones who, like happy sprites, ran about the farm with their fine tallow lights. Icelandic Christmas tradition The 23rd of December in Iceland is Saint Þorlákur's Day in Iceland,

Thorlak Thorhallsson is the patron saint of Iceland. He was bishop of Skálholt from 1178 until his death on December 23rd, 1193.

The holiday calls for a special meal which many eat only once a year: fermented or putrefied skate (a type of ray). Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Ketkrókur, the 12th Yule Lad, comes to town. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 7, Day 8, Day 9, Day 10, Day 11 and Day 12.

Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Ketkrókur by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the poem about Ketkrókur Ketkrókur, sá tólfti, kunni á ýmsu lag.- Hann þrammaði í sveitina á Þorláksmessudag.

Hann krækti sér í tutlu, þegar kostur var á. En stundum reyndist stuttur stauturinn hans þá. English version of the poem about Ketkrókur Meat Hook, the twelfth one his talent would display as soon as he arrived on Saint Thorlak´s Day.

He snagged himself a morsel of meet of any sort, although his hook at times was a tiny bit short. Icelandic Christmas Tradition Christmas candies! I feel like a holiday in Iceland is not complete without some kind of candy that is made especially for this time of the year.

The big candy producers like Nóí Sírius, Apollo and Góa all have some type of candy during this time. I especially love Jóladýr, which is a vegan candy from Freyja. It is dark chocolate with creamy mint filling. So tasty and way too easy to eat the whole bag. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Gáttaþefur, the 11th Yule Lad, comes to town. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 7, Day 8, Day 9, Day 10 and Day 11.

Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Gáttaþefur by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the poem about Gáttaþefur Ellefti var Gáttaþefur -aldrei fékk sá kvef, og hafði þó svo hlálegt og heljarstórt nef.

Hann ilm af laufabrauði upp á heiðar fann, og léttur, eins og reykur, á lyktina rann. English version of the poem about Gáttaþefur Eleventh was Door Sniffer, a doltish lad and gross. He never got a cold, yet had a huge, sensitive nose.

He caught the scent of leaf bread while leagues away still and ran toward it weightless as wind over dale and hill. Icelandic Christmas Tradition Bake saras or sörur - Chocolate glazed buttercream macaroons

Sarah Bernhardt cakes originates back to 1911, where a Copenhagen pastry chef (Johannes Steen) created this cake as a tribute to the world-famous french actress, Sarah Bernhardt, when she came to Copenhagen to mark the publication of her memoirs in Danish

Piparkökur - pepper cookies but really gingerbread. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Gluggagægir, the 10th Yule Lad comes to town. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 7, Day 8, Day 9, and Day 10.Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Gluggagægir by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the poem about Gluggagægir Tíundi var Gluggagægir, grályndur mann, sem laumaðist á skjáinn og leit inn um hann. Ef eitthvað var þar inni álitlegt að sjá, hann oftast nær seinna í það reyndi að ná. English version of the poem about Gluggagægir The tenth was Window Peeper,a weird little twit,who stepped up to the windowand stole a peek through it.And whatever was insideto which his eye was drawn,he most likely attemptedto take later on. Icelandic Christmas Tradition

Jólaterta - Christmas cake that is layered with jam and cream. You can find them in every supermarket wrapped up in plastic Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Bjúgnakrækir, the 9th Yule Lad comes to town This is a 15-day Icelandic Christmas series. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 7, Day 8, and Day 9.

Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Bjúgnakrækir by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the poem about Bjúgnakrækir Níundi var Bjúgnakrækir, brögðóttur og snar. Hann hentist upp í rjáfrin og hnuplaði þar.

Á eldhúsbita sat hann í sóti og reyk og át þar hangið bjúga, sem engan sveik. English version of the poem about Bjúgnakrækir The ninth was Sausage Swiper, a shifty pilferer. He climbed up to the rafters and raided food from there.

Sitting on a crossbeam in soot and in smoke, he fed himself on sausage fit for gentlefolk. Icelandic Christmas Tradition Menorah looking electric candle decorations. I was so confused when I saw these in the window of many Icelanders when I visited for the first time in December 2013 because I didn´t know so many Jewish people lived here. However, when I looked closer and inquired about it, these candles are not a menorah but closely resemble them.

According to the website Stuck in Iceland, these lights were apparently brought to Iceland by an illustrious businessman from Sweden in the sixties. The story goes that he bought a few handmade lights for his aunts but pretty soon everybody had to have one. Needless to say, he made a fortune on this rather lucky break. If something catches on in homogenous Iceland, well it takes off big time! Confusingly, Icelanders also prepare wreaths with four candles. The candles are lit on every Sunday on the advent. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Skyrjarmur,, the 8th Yule Lad comes to town This is a 15-day Icelandic Christmas series. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6, Day 7 and Day 8.

Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Skyrjarmur by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the poem about Skyrjarmur Skyrjarmur, sá áttundi, var skelfilegt naut. Hann hlemminn o’n af sánum með hnefanum braut.

Svo hámaði hann í sig og yfir matnum gein, uns stóð hann á blístri og stundi og hrein. English version of the poem about Skyrjarmur Skyr Gobbler, the eighth, was an awful stupid bloke. He lambasted the skyr tub till the lid on it broke.

Then he stood there gobbling – his greed was well known – until, about to burst, he would bleat, howl and groan. Icelandic Christmas Tradition Lighting of the Oslo tree in Austurvöllur square in downtown Reykjavík is not as grand as the Rockefeller Christmas tree lighting but it is still fun. Songs are sung and it is an all around good time. This normally happens in early December and that is when you know that the Christmas season is going into hyperdrive here. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Hurðaskellir, the 7th Yule Lad comes to town This is a 15-day Icelandic Christmas series. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5, Day 6 and Day 7.

Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Hurðaskellir by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the poem about Hurðaskellir Sjöundi var Hurðaskellir, -sá var nokkuð klúr, ef fólkið vildi í rökkrinu fá sér vænan dúr.

Hann var ekki sérlega hnugginn yfir því, þó harkalega marraði hjörunum í. English version of the poem about Hurðaskellir The seventh was Door Slammer, a sorry, vulgar chap:

When people in the twilight would take a little nap, he was happy as a lark with the havoc he could wreak,

slamming doors and hearing the hinges on them squeak. Icelandic Christmas Tradition Christmas Markets. I talked about this in the episode about Icelandic themed Christmas Gifts but I am briefly bringing it up again because it is such a staple here regarding this holiday.

Here is a link to check out the Christmas markets for 2021 in or near Reykjavík. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Askasleikir, the 6th Yule Lad comes to town This is a 15-day Icelandic Christmas series. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, Day 5 and Day 6.

Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Askasleikir by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the Poem about Askasleikir Sá sjötti Askasleikir, var alveg dæmalaus.- Hann fram undan rúmunum rak sinn ljóta haus.

Þegar fólkið setti askana fyrir kött og hund, hann slunginn var að ná þeim og sleikja á ýmsa lund. English version of the Poem about Askasleikir Bowl Licker, the sixth one, was shockingly ill bred. From underneath the bedsteads he stuck his ugly head.

And when the bowls were left to be licked by dog or cat, he snatched them for himself – he was sure good at that! Icelandic Christmas Tradition Laufabrauð - leaf bread

Laufabrauð is a traditional Icelandic bread that is eaten in the Christmas season. Even though it is said to have originated in the north of Iceland, it is now eaten all around the country.

The look of it is a very thin flat cake with a diameter of about 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches), and is decorated with leaf-like, geometric patterns. It is fried to a crispy texture in hot fat or oil. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on email Email Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Pottaskefill, the 5th Yule Lad comes to town This is a 15-day Icelandic Christmas series. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3, Day 4 and Day 5.Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Pottaskefill by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the Poem about Pottaskefill Sá fimmti Pottaskefill, var skrítið kuldastrá. -Þegar börnin fengu skófir hann barði dyrnar á. Þau ruku’upp, til að gá að hvort gestur væri á ferð. Þá flýtti’ ann sér að pottinum og fékk sér góðan verð. English version of the Poem about Pottaskefill Pot Scraper, the fifth one,was a funny sort of chap.When kids were given scrapings,he'd come to the door and tap.And they would rush to seeif there really was a guest.Then he hurried to the potand had a scraping fest. Icelandic Christmas Tradition Special Christmas beers from breweries in the country. You are only allowed to buy them starting in November and the sale stops when the holiday season is over or if the batch sells out. This year there is a beer being made with the taste of red pickled cabbage and green peas, two staple dishes for Icelandic Christmas dinner. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Þvörusleikir, the 4th Yule Lad comes to town. This is a 15-day Icelandic Christmas series. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2, Day 3 and Day 4.

Just a reminder that on December 16th, 2021 at 8:00 PM in Iceland, I am giving a live talk about traveling around Iceland throughout the seasons on The Wisdom App. It’s a totally free app that you download on your phone. You can ask me questions about traveling in Iceland and interact with me live. I look forward to interacting with you on December 16th.

Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Þvörusleikir by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the Poem about Þvörusleikir Sá fjórði, Þvörusleikir, var fjarskalega mjór. Og ósköp varð hann glaður, þegar eldabuskan fór.

Þá þaut hann eins og elding og þvöruna greip, og hélt með báðum höndum, því hún var stundum sleip. English version of the Poem about Þvörusleikir The fourth was Spoon Licker; like spindle he was thin. He felt himself in clover when the cook wasn’t in.

Then stepping up, he grappled the stirring spoon with glee, holding it with both hands for it was slippery. Icelandic Christmas Tradition Malt og appelsín - Holiday drink in Iceland that is very popular. It is incredibly sugary and many people love the combination. However, I am not one of them. I like to stick to drinking malt. Regardless, I do recommend trying it, if you haven't already. Share this Icelandic Christmas Story Share on facebook Facebook Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Stúfur, the 3rd Yule Lad comes to town. This is a 15-day Icelandic Christmas series. To hear about the other Yule Lads that have already arrived and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1, Day 2 and Day 3. Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Stúfur by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the Poem about Stúfur Stúfur hét sá þriðji, stubburinn sá. Hann krækti sér í pönnu, þegar kostur var á.

Hann hljóp með hana í burtu og hirti agnirnar, sem brunnu stundum fastar við barminn hér og þar. English version of the Poem about Stúfur Stubby was the third called, a stunted little man, who watched for every chance to whisk off a pan.

And scurrying away with it, he scraped off the bits that stuck to the bottom and brims – his favorites. Icelandic Christmas Tradition Buying and eating clementines during the Christms season. Not very long ago, it was considered fairly rare to have a decent variety of fruits available in Iceland. I have friends who are in their mid 40s and up, who say they grew up looking forward to Christmas because that was the only time in the year when they go clementines.

Even though Icelanders can probably get them shipped in anytime now, they pretty much pop up in abundance during this season. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on twitter Twitter

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Tonight Giljagaur, the 2nd Yule Lad, comes to town. This is a 15-day Icelandic Christmas series. To hear about the first Yule Lad and an overview of this Icelandic Christmas series, check out Day 1 and Day 2. Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem about Giljagaur by Jóhannes úr Kötlum.

Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic version of the Poem about Giljagaur Giljagaur var annar, með gráa hausinn sinn. -Hann skreið ofan úr gili og skaust í fjósið inn.

Hann faldi sig í básunum og froðunni stal, meðan fjósakonan átti við fjósamanninn tal. English version of the Poem about Giljagaur The second was Gully Gawk, gray his head and mien. He snuck into the cow barn from his craggy ravine.

Hiding in the stalls, he would steal the milk, while the milkmaid gave the cowherd a meaningful smile. Icelandic Christmas Tradition Jólabókaflóðið - Icelandic book flood

This is according to jolabokafloð.org

"This tradition began during World War II once Iceland had gained its independence for Denmark in 1944. Paper was one of the few commodities not rationed during the war, so Icelanders shared their love of books even more as other types of gifts were short supply. This increase in giving books as presents reinforced Iceland’s culture as a nation of bookaholics – a study conducted by Bifröst University in 2013 found that half the country’s population read at least eight books a year.

Every year since 1944, the Icelandic book trade has published a catalogue – called Bókatíðindi (‘Book Bulletin’, in English) – that is sent to every household in the country in mid-November during the Reykjavik Book Fair. People use the catalogue to order books to give friends and family for Christmas.

During the festive season, gifts are opened on 24 December and, by tradition, everyone reads the books they have been given straight away, often while drinking hot chocolate or alcohol-free Christmas ale called jólabland." Share this Icelandic Christmas Story Share on facebook Facebook Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on twitter Twitter

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The kick off to this series was yesterday, so check out that if you want a primer on who the Yules Lads are and a bit about their family. One thing to keep in mind is that the Yule Lads travel in the evening/early morning, so they can get into town before children wake up. Tonight, the first Yule Lad, Stekkjastaur, is making his way to town. Below is the Icelandic and English version of the poem by Jóhannes úr Kötlum. Icelandic Version of the Poem about Stekkjastaur Stekkjastaur kom fyrstur, stinnur eins og tré. Hann laumaðist í fjárhúsin og lék á bóndans fé.

Hann vildi sjúga ærnar, -þá varð þeim ekki um sel, því greyið hafði staurfætur, -það gekk nú ekki vel. English Version of the Poem about Stekkjastaur The first of them was Sheep-Cote Clod. He came stiff as wood, to pray upon the farmer's sheep as far as he could.

He wished to suck the ewes, but it was no accident he couldn't; he had stiff knees – not too convenient. Icelandic Christmas Tradition Kids put a shoe in the window in Iceland. Back in the day, Icelandic Yule Lads were not bearers of gifts but the image of them has softened over time. This has resulted in them being associated with bringing either a gift that they left in your shoe if you were good or a potato, if you were bad. Share this Icelandic Christmas Story Share on facebook Facebook Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on twitter Twitter

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While I have talked about the Icelandic Yule Lads on the podcast in the past, I decided to change it up a bit this year by kicking off a 15-day Icelandic Christmas series.This series will include me reading a poem in Icelandic and English about the Yule Lads.

This poem was originally written in Icelandic by Jóhannes úr Kötlum and is called “Jólasveinarnir” in Icelandic. The poem was translatedCopyright © into English by Hallberg Hallmundsson. How the 15-Day Icelandic Christmas Series is Structured Today, I am explaining where the Yule Lads come from, sharing some information about their mother Grýla, their father Leppaluði and their vicious Black Cat. Starting tomorrow evening, the Yule Lads come to town one by one each day until the 24th. In accordance with that, I will read the poem about them for that corresponding day.

In addition to reading the poem in Icelandic and English, I will also share an Icelandic Christmas tradition to end off the episode. I feel like this is a fun way to mix up my content and I hope you enjoy it. If you do, it would be greatly appreciated if you left a review of the podcast wherever you listen to podcasts and share this series with anyone that you think would enjoy it. Join Me for a Live Talk About Iceland on the Wisdom App I want to thank the Wisdom App for sponsoring this episode of the podcast. The Wisdom App is often thought of as “Clubhouse meets Masterclass”. You can connect with experts in their respective fields to hear them speak live about topics they are well versed in.

I’ll be giving a Wisdom App live talk on December 16th, 2021 at 8:00 PM GMT (time in Iceland) about traveling around Iceland during the different seasons. If you tune in live, you can ask me questions and interact with me. Make sure to mark your calendars, so you don’t miss out on this talk about Iceland. "Jólasveinarnir" in Icelandic - First Part Segja vil ég sögu af sveinunum þeim, sem brugðu sér hér forðum á bæina heim

Þeir uppi á fjöllum sáust, -eins og margur veit,- í langri halarófu á leið niður í sveit.

Grýla var þeirra móðir og gaf þeim tröllamjólk, en pabbinn Leppalúði, -það var leiðindafólk.

Þeir jólasveinar nefndust, -um jólin birtust þeir, og einn og einn þeir komu, en aldrei tveir og tveir.

Þeir voru þrettán þessir heiðursmenn, sem ekki vildu ónáða allir í senn

Að dyrunum þeir læddust og drógu lokuna úr. Og einna helst þeir leituðu í eldhús og búr.

Lævísir á svipinn þeir leyndust hér og þar, til óknyttanna vísir, ef enginn nærri var.

Og eins, þó einhver sæi, var ekki hikað við að hrekkja fólk - og trufla þess heimilisfrið. The English Translation of the first part Let me tell the story of the lads of few charms, who once upon a time used to visit our farms.

Thirteen altogether, these gents in their prime didn't want to irk people all at one time.

They came from the mountains, as many of you know, in a long single file to the farmsteads below.

Creeping up, all stealth, they unlocked the door. The kitchen and the pantry they came looking for. Grýla was their mother – she gave them ogre milk – and the father Leppalúdi; a loathsome ilk.

They hid where they could, with a cunning look or sneer, ready with their pranks when people weren't near.

They were called the Yuletide lads – at Yuletide they were due – and always came one by one, not ever two by two

And even when they were seen, they weren't loath to roam and play their tricks – Disturbing the peace of the home. Icelandic Christmas tradition Advent calendars are very popular in Iceland. This year, advent started on Sunday November 28th and will end on December 24th. Most kids get an advent calendar with a chocolate or some sort of candy for each day of advent.

Some companies have gotten creative here regarding these calendars. One has created a beer advent calendar, I saw another for perfume, and nail polish. So, this tradition is definitely evolving to cater to people of all ages. Share This Post

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Because Christmas is right around the corner, I decided to dedicate this episode to giving you ideas for Iceland-themed gifts you can get for yourself or a loved one this year. Below are all of the places I recommend getting a gift that was either made or designed in Iceland. Iceland Themed Gift Ideas Talked About in the Podcast 1.) The Handknitting Association of Iceland is where I get my Icelandic lopapeysas (sweaters). They are handmade in Iceland from 100% Icelandic wool. https://bit.ly/handknitted_iceland

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LjBepJiZm94&t=0s

2.) Shop at the All Things Iceland Merch shop for awesome Iceland themed goodies (https://shop.allthingsiceland.com/)

Get a 10% discount on your first purchase when you use the code Iceland10 at checkout.

3) Anna Rósa Skincare - https://www.annarosaskincare.com/

In the video below, I talk about how the Bliss Healing Balm from Anna Rósa skincare has been a game changer for my skin during the winter.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nh5Xp7w0QNc&t=197s 4.) Icelandic Food & Sweets - On this site (https://bit.ly/nammi_christmas), you can find an assortment of foods that Icelanders eat during the Christmas season. I recommend ordering some and trying them out.

5.) Infused Salts from Saltverk are sustainably harvested in Iceland. They have a lovely selection of flavors that are so fun to try. (https://saltverk.com/) 6) Books By Icelandic Authors The Little Book of the Icelanders at Christmas by Alda Sigmundsdóttir - https://amzn.to/3dgzwGK

Independent People by Halldór Laxness - https://amzn.to/3EiyaXz Magma by Þóra Hjörleiðsdóttir - https://amzn.to/3luxh7g Jar City by Arnaldur Indriðason - https://amzn.to/3pkUwBM Crime Books by Yrsa Sigurðardóttir - https://amzn.to/3oeRfoc Here is a link to more Iceland - https://www.icelandtravel.is/blog/icelandic-authors-books/ 7) Icelandic Alcohol Icelandic Christmas Beers, which are so fun to taste during this time of year. https://bit.ly/christmas_beers_iceland

Reykjavík Distillery has some delicious liquers that I highly recommend trying, such as the Rhubarb and blueberry flavored ones. https://bit.ly/nammi_reyk_dist

Here is the episode about Icelandic beer history that I did with Óli the Brewmaster Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on twitter Twitter

The Legacy: A Thriller (Children's House Book 1)

The Little Book of the Icelanders at Christmas

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Visiting Iceland for the first time is such an amazing adventure, but it also comes with some surprising experiences. In this podcast episode, I point out 12 things that shock first timer visitors to the country. While this will help to manage your expectations, it doesn't mean that you won't have some type of reaction to one or more of these things when you encounter them. Shop at the All Things Iceland Merch Shop

Great Holiday Themed Gifts

Iceland for First-Timers Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2SzkaekT0w The 12 Things That Surprise First Timers Discussed in the Podcast Episode

The money in Iceland Cost of alcohol and food Icelander's ability to speak English Trees in Iceland exist! Roundabouts are different here Smell of rotten eggs coming from the hot water Fly net for summer One lane bridges One lane tunnels Using cards primarily for payment everywhere you go Showering naked at the local swimming pools Feels like you are on another planet

Icelandic word of the episode Koma á óvart - surprise Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on twitter Twitter

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While there are certainly more than five trailblazing women in Iceland’s history, I thought it would be helpful to start off with these women first because they have made a significant impact on Iceland and the progression of the society for everyone. You might have heard of some of the women I’m featuring but there are others that you have probably never learned about. Before I jump into speaking about each woman, I will first give a bit of history about Iceland regarding suffrage and the significant impact that Icelandic women’s organizations had in the country. These organizations were formed before women had the right to vote. After going over each of the phenomenal women’s backgrounds, I share a little timeline of significant moments in Icelandic history that are related to women rights and equal rights. Next is the random fact of the episode and I will end off with the Icelandic word of the day. I found a lot of information on the Women’s history Archives website. The Archives was founded in January of 1975 by Anna Sigurðardóttir, Else Mia Einarsdóttir and Svanlaug Baldursdóttir. Since 1996 it has been a special entity within the National Library of Iceland. There is so much information there and I will have links to the website in the show notes if you want to check it out. A Short History of Voting Rights in Iceland I think it is important and super fascinating to share some history about Iceland and how the country being governed by Denmark played a significant role in the rights of women in the country. At the beginning of the 19th century Iceland did not have many people residing in the country. The ones that did live here were farmers, their wives and kids, people who worked as laborers and maids. There was not a middle class until later into the 20th century. That is significant because it is often thought that the middle class are the backbone of social movements. In fact from 1845, the right to vote for men in Iceland was limited to those of a certain age that paid taxes and had property.That changed in 1903 but still that means that more than 50 years went by where only men with certain status in society had the right to vote. What is so interesting to me is that the Icelandic parliament discussed women’s suffrage more than once in the 19th century and most parliamentarians supported it. However, all bills that contained women’s suffrage were vetoed by Danish authorities. Those bills also proposed changes in the relationship between countries as well. I’m sure that had a lot to do with the bills being vetoed. I was surprised at how progressive parliament was back about this topic. And for those who are not aware, Iceland didn’t become a sovereign state until 1918 and declared independence in 1944. The role of Women’s Organizations in Icelandic history

Iceland’s first women’s organization was founded in the countryside in 1869. It’s focus was to foster more unity and cooperation among women in the region. They also collected money to buy a knitting machine that all members could use.Most women’s organizations at the time were focused on helping the sick and the poor. Iceland didn’t have a national healthcare system then and municipalities were barely providing any social help. By stepping in to help, these women organizations played a significant role in shaping the welfare state of the country. These organizations provided home care for the sick and created a healthcare center in Reykjavik.Because women were only allowed to get the most elementary education from the established institutions at the time, Icelandic women decided to create their own private schools between 1874 and 1879.Icelandic women gained the parliamentary vote in 1915, but the right was, however, blemished by the fact that only women over 40 years of age got the vote. Nowhere else in the world was women's suffrage restricted in this particular way. Certain circumstances in Iceland contributed to this unique decision,

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Ragna Kjartansdóttir (Cell7) and Hildur Kristín Stefánsdóttir are the dynamic duo that makes up the band Red Riot in Iceland. During this interview, they share the ups and downs of being an artist (solo and in a band) in Iceland. In particular, they provide insight as females in the Icelandic music industry and some of the challenges they have faced just due to their gender.

Use my special link below to get a discounted rate of the live stream of the "Live from Reykjavík" concert happening on November 6th, 2021. This hybrid event has limited in-person seats and will be live-streamed from four iconic venues in Reykjavík. Amazing Icelandic artists like Ásgeir, Bríet, Aron Can, Daughters of Reykjavík, Red Riot, and more will perform.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xPoY_aXbhU Topics I Talked About With Red Riot During the Interview

When did you burst onto the music scene in Iceland? Was there any pressure to look or be a certain way as a female artist? Which music artists have inspired you? Trailblazing as songwriters in Iceland Challenges they have faced in the music industry What advice do you have for young artists? What made you form Red Riot? How have you adapted during COVID? Cell7's experience in a recent Inspired by Iceland campaign What music projects are you working on now that we can look out for? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Red Riot's Spotify playlist Red Riot's Instagram

Cell7's Spotify Playlist Cell7's Instagram

Hildur's Spotify Playlist Hildur's Instagram Share This Post Share on facebook Facebook Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on twitter Twitter

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So many people around the world have fallen in love with Icelandic music because of the amazing artists from this tiny country in the North Atlantic ocean. Like many industries, the Icelandic music scene has had to pivot during tough times in order for artists to continue working/creating and for the industry itself to keep alive. To get a better insight into how the Icelandic music scene has adapted during this time, I hosted a panel of experts in the industry.

These amazing people include María Rut Reynisdóttir is the Head of Cultural Office for the City of Reykjavik and the Project Manager for Reykjavík Music City; Sigtryggur "Siggi" Baldursson is the Managing Director for Iceland Music, whose mission is to help tell the story of Icelandic music around the world, and he was the drummer in the band "The Sugarcubes"; Will Larnach Jones is the Managing Director and Head of Bookings for Iceland Airwaves, one of Iceland's biggest music festivals. Listen to Live Icelandic Music During "Live from Reykajvík" Use my special link below to get a discounted rate of the live stream of the "Live from Reykjavík" concert happening on November 6th, 2021. This hybrid event has limited in-person seats and will be live-streamed from four iconic venues in Reykjavík. Amazing Icelandic artists like Ásgeir, Bríet, Aron Can, Daughters of Reykjavík, and more will perform.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OA7bwomj45A&list=RDCMUCacXXvaNHJQhMYU7f77OrBA&start_radio=1 Full Biographies of the Speakers on the Panel Sigtryggur Baldursson - MD of Iceland Music Siggi heads up a great time at Iceland Music, whose mission it is to help tell the story of Icelandic music around the world. Iceland Music is the music export office of Iceland. We facilitate the growth and development of the Icelandic music sector through building relationships between musicians and the various services that support their careers, such as festivals, PR and labels, and transnational promotion.

Iceland Music also administers a number of export grants to Icelandic musicians which help them perform internationally. He is also a kind, warm and funny man! And in a former life he was the drummer for The Sugarcubes, who were the first Icelandic band to make big waves overseas, and as such played a huge part in the music / tourism conversation around Iceland, and with the label Bad Taste (Smekkleysa) María Rut Reynisdóttir - Head of the Culture Office in the City of Reykjavík María Rut studied Creative Project and Process Management at the KaosPilot school in Denmark and started her career in Iceland as the Executive Assistant to Magnus Scheving, creator and CEO of the LazyTown children’s TV series. María first got involved in the music industry when she joined the social music platform Gogoyoko.com back in 2008 as Head of Charity (and later COO) and took on the management of Iceland's biggest reggae band, hjálmar. She was the Program Manager of Iceland Airwaves in 2010, the Manager of the You Are In Control conference on creative industries in the digital age in 2011 and the General Manager of the Icelandic Music Awards 2012 - 2015.

María has taught Project Management at the Icelandic Academy of the Arts and sat on the board of Gogoyoko.com and Music Express travel fund. María has been the manager of internationally acclaimed artist Ásgeir from the start of his career in spring 2012 as well as managing dj. flugvél og geimskip. María became the Project Manager for the Music City of Reykjavík where her responsibilities will be to ensure and support a thriving music community in the city through various activities and projects. She is now the Head of Cultural Office for the City of Reykjavik. Will Larnach -Jones, Managing Director and Head of Boookings for Iceland Airwaves Will Larnach-Jones has worked in music for 20 years – wearing many hats throughout that time – manager, publicist, agent, A&R, music programmer, marketing 'guru' and erstwhile (rubbish) DJ. Along the way,

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Icelandic ghost stories have been told over the centuries and there is one in particular that I am sharing in this episode. “Deacon of Dark River” or Djákninn á Myrká is a spooky story that involves love, Christmas and the undead. Over the last couple of years, Halloween has become more popular in Iceland, even though there is another holiday (Öskudagur), where kids dress up and sing for candy. However, that holiday happens on Ash Wednesday and not much happens during this time of the year, so it makes sense that Icelanders are gravitating towards celebrating Halloween. Random Fact of the Episode “Trolls in the Knolls: 35 Icelandic Folk & Fairy Tales ” is the book I referenced in the episode. It has some fun stories that are a mix of bizarre, fascinating and a little scary. Icelandic Phrase of the Episode Gleðilega Hrekkjavöku - Happy Halloween

Subscribe to the All Things Iceland Newsletter Don't miss out on announcements of special content for those planning a trip to Iceland. Click Here

Join the All Things Iceland Community on Patreon Some of you might be aware that one of my goals for the podcast is to travel around Iceland more to interview different people in each region. In July, I set up the All Things Iceland community on Patreon. It’s a membership platform that was founded in 2013. It allows for creators like me to provide exclusive content to listeners like you in exchange for a monthly subscription.

Each month I am doing Ask Me Anything videos, Live Chats, and Folklore Friday each week. Sometimes I do updates about my life in Iceland. I do not share this content on any other channel. The support from my patrons on the All Things Iceland community on Patreon will help to evolve All Things Iceland. There are several membership tiers to choose from and each tier has a variety of benefits.

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og Gleðilega Hrekkjavöku!

Thank you kindly for listening (and reading) and Happy Halloween! Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on twitter Twitter

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The Trolls in the Knolls: 36 Icelandic Folk and Fairy Tales and fairy tales

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Immigrant life in Iceland has surprisingly been a smooth transition for me. I think part of that has to do with the fact that there are certain things in the country that have made living here easy. Of course it is important to mention that what I point out in this episode are based on my own experience and will vary from person to person. In this podcast episode, I go over 5 specific things that come to mind when I think about what has made immigrant life in Iceland easier as I continue to learn and adjust to the country. Taxes for Expats Thank you to Taxes for Expats for sponsoring this podcast episode. I’m incredibly grateful for this awesome tax service because they make my life a million times easier when it comes time to file in the US. Their online platform is intuitive, and you get matched up with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) that thoroughly works on your taxes to make sure you are fully compliant regarding filing your taxes. Every year, it is a headache for me to get it done but not anymore because I know I can rely on Taxes for Expats to handle the paperwork for me. Here is the list of the 5 things that make immigrant life easier that I talk about in the episode: Getting my taxes down by Taxes for Expats - crucial for immigrant life if you want to stay compliant with the tax laws in your home countryHaving community (in-person and online)Seeing familiar products from the US in stores in IcelandEnglish is widely spoken hereBeing able to get shipments for a good price via iHerb.comI often get asked by people from around the world how they can move to Iceland. It varies for everyone, but I recommend checking out this video to get an idea of what visas are available to you and much more.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EJJZdsXsFus Random Fact of the Episode One of the funny things to me is that I have totally taken on the habit of Icelanders where they bring an empty suitcase with them when they go on vacation. It is often so expensive to buy clothes and certain products here, that it can be less expensive to buy a plane ticket and bulk shop for things out of the country. Icelandic Word of the Episode Innflytjandi - immigrant Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on twitter Twitter

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega.Thank you kindly for listening (and reading) and see you soon!

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2021 has been such an interesting year for me and I was just as shocked as anyone that I was able to interview the President of Iceland, Guðni Th. Jóhannesson. I talk about how the opportunity to interview Guðni during the podcast episode because it is quite unusual. The President was very kind to answer all of my questions, including the questions that the members of the All Things Iceland Patreon submitted.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTJo-K3_PV8&t=1s Here are the questions I asked the President of Iceland during the interview:

What motivated you to run for President of Iceland in 2016? Can you explain a bit about what your duties are, and what kind of power you do have in the Icelandic government? - What have you learned from previous Icelandic Presidents What is most challenging about being President of Iceland? How has COVID impacted your Presidency? What He likes about being President of Iceland The myths about Iceland he wants to debunk The President’s favorite history about Bessastaðir (The Icelandic President’s Residence) Has there been anything interesting and/or strange that have you experienced since leaving behind your life as an ordinary citizen and becoming the head of the Icelandic state? One of the most surprising things I read about you is you’re a very distant cousin of Barack Obama. Was it shocking to you when you found that out? Also, have you met the Obamas? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Questions From my patrons on Patreon

Before assuming the office of the president you had an academic background in Icelandic history. When you leave office what do you think you will focus on studying or writing about? As an individual who has translated the works of Stephen King into Icelandic what is your favorite work by the Author? Is there any literature you would love to see translated that has not been?

Join the All Things Iceland Patreon Community

Some of you might be aware that one of my goals for the podcast is to travel around Iceland more to interview different people in each region. In July 2020, I set up the All Things Iceland community on Patreon. It’s a membership platform that was founded in 2013. It allows or creators like me to provide exclusive content to listeners like you in exchange for a monthly subscription.

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join. Share this post Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on facebook Facebook Share on twitter Twitter Let's Be Social. Here is where we can connect.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega.

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

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During this sit down with Sæþór Randalsson about the recent election in Iceland and his involvement with socialism in Iceland was quite insightful. More than a year ago, I interviewed Sæþór about his move from the United States many years ago and you check it out here.

The beginning of this episode focuses on Sæþór sharing about how the Icelandic Parliament is set up. After all the ballots from the election are counted, coalitions of the parties that have seats in Parliament are formed. Well, the goal is that coalitions are formed but that can sometimes take more than one go for that to happen.

After that breakdown, Sæþór talks about Socialism and why he is running for a Parliamentary position with the Socialis party. Many people who are not familiar with how Iceland is governed often assume that there is socialism is widely practised in Icelandic society instead understanding there is a mix of socialism and capitalism here. Join the All Things Iceland Community on Patreon

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega.

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

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Iceland’s Blue Lagoon was established in the 1990s, but it’s a much different experience now than its humble beginnings. Over the decades the Blue Lagoon went from being a bathing facility whose water run off from a nearby power plant soothed the skin of patients with psoriasis to being one of the most well known spas in the world. When travelers to Iceland are planning their trips, I often get asked if the Blue Lagoon is worth visiting. I totally understand that some “must see” places can be overhyped, so I dedicated this short podcast episode to giving you my opinion on if it is worth it to visit this famous spa. Different Passes for the Blue Lagoon + In-water Massage

During the episode I go over the different passes available, the cost of each pass (comfort and premium) and what they include. I also include my experience with the in-water massage that is available as an add-on to any pass that you buy, if you decide to visit. I do not include an opinion about the Blue Lagoon’s Retreat Spa, a newer and much more expensive option than the other passes, because I’ve not experienced it. When I do try out the Retreat Spa, I will definitely share my thoughts in a separate episode.I think the most important things for anyone to keep in mind when making decisions about activities in Iceland are their budget and what kind of experiences they feel are worth splurging on. For many, visiting the Blue Lagoon is an essential part of experiencing Iceland and I think that is a fair view point.I hope this podcast episode has helped to give you some insight on whether the Blue Lagoon is worth it for you when you visit the country. If you have already visited this spa in Iceland, I'd love to hear what your experience was like in the comments.

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Click Here Random Fact of the Episode Before the most recent renovations at the Blue Lagoon, you used to be able to hand scoop your own silica masks from buckets placed in areas around the lagoon. With the new upgrades, you get your mask from an attendant, plus other available masks based on your skin's sensitivities. The nice thing about having an attendant give you the mask is that you know no one else has been putting their hands in it. Icelandic Word of the Episode Bláa lónið - Blue Lagoon Share This Post Share on pinterest Pinterest Share on facebook Facebook Share on twitter Twitter Let's Be Social. Here is where we can connect.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega.Thank you for kindly for listening and reading, and see you soon!

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Najmo Fiyasko’s story of growing up in Somalia and her escape from being a child bride there caught my attention when I saw her on the cover of a newspaper in Iceland. I was shocked to learn that she had been through so much at such a young age. I still have the newspaper that featured her because I just knew that one day I would interview her. The funny thing is that one fateful day she friended me on Facebook and we eventually started to chat. I was elated when she agreed to be interviewed because I wanted as many people as possible to hear about what she has overcome and the inspiration she is today. Here are some of the questions I asked Najmo Fiyasko during the interview:

You went through so much at such a young age while living in Somalia. Can you share about what you had to endure and why you eventually fled to Iceland? What was your experience like when you arrived in Iceland? What was it like adjusting to life here? How was it for you to learn the language? Were there any customs or foods that were strange or shocking to you? You’re doing such amazing work on your social media platforms by raising awareness about female genital mutilation, and rights for women and girls. Your content is in Somali and you have gained quite a large following. What is the reaction from Somali’s when you talk about these topics?

Where to follow and support Najmo Fiyasko and her nonprofit women's media organisation Check out the Mid Show website to learn more and donate

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega.

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

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Reykjavík and the rest of Iceland has gained a reputation for having many rainy days. While I’m an advocate for going out and dressing well no matter the weather, sometimes it is better to stay inside. Well, if you have to be indoors why not make it fun? The five interactive places I talk about in this episode are so much fun that they will make you forget all about the weather. An Experience Like No Other in Reykjavík I’m excited to have FlyOver Iceland as the sponsor of this podcast episode and video. I remember experiencing this interactive ride back when it first opened and I was blown away. As explained in the podcast episode, there are three distinct parts to the experience. First, you enter a Viking longhouse and hear an Icelandic storyteller explain about Vikings and settlers that came to the country. Next, you go into the Well of Time. In this room, an Icelandic troll uses their magical powers to show you visually and through music about the history of Iceland and its people.Last but not least, is the simulated flying experience. After strapping in, you feel like you’re flying over some of the remote parts of the country. It’s an incredible experience because there is wind, mist, and the seats are moving like we are in an airplane. Everyone I know who has been there, including my mother, has raved about it. I highly recommend this incredibly fun activity in Reykjavík.

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5 Rainy Day Activities To Do in Reykjavík

FlyOver Iceland- 3 parts of the experience – Viking Longhouse, The Well of Time and the ride itselWhales of Iceland – 23 life sized and handmade replicas of whalesMaritime Museum – (Sjóminjasafnið ) -Fish and Folk, Dutch Merchant Shipwreck in the 1700s and Óðinn coastguard ship, which fought in the Cod Wars.Aurora Reykjavík – Northern Lights Center folklore about the northern lights from different cultures, how the northern lights work – the science behind them, a comfy theater where you can watch northern lights footage.Valdís Ice creamhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Vsy0xeVKgw Share This Post Share on facebook Facebook Share on twitter Twitter Share on pinterest Pinterest Random fact of the episode According to the website Reykjavík ClimaTemps.com, there are,

On average there are 213 days per year with more than 0.1 mm (0.004 in) of rainfall (precipitation) or 17.8 days with a quantity of rain, sleet, snow etc. per month.

Reykjavík ClimaTemps

Word of the episode Rigning - rain Let's Be Social. Here is where we can connect.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega.Thank you kindly for listening (and reading) and see you soon!

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While it might seem a little morbid to talk about how Iceland can kill you, the intention of this podcast episode and blog post is to spread awareness. Icelandic nature is absolutely gorgeous but there are plenty of dangerous situations that can be life threatening. In this episode, I’m sharing seven ways that can lead to death here. I include some examples of people who have unfortunately perished.Please remember to check safetravel.is before heading out on an adventure in Iceland. This site has updates about weather warnings, road closures and more. Join My Newsletter

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ESUKvNhorgM 7 Ways Iceland Can Kill You Volcanos - stepping on the lava or getting too close to when there are a dangerous amount of gases in the airBad weather - wind or snow stormsDying of exposureStepping into a boiling hot mud poolFalling off a cliff of a mountain or waterfall for a picture or a curious lookSneaker waves on Icelandic beachesStopping in the middle of the road to take photos. How to Pack for Icelandic Weather in Any Season Regardless of the season, Icelandic weather can vary. It's common to experience what feels like different seasons within the same day.Most people that visit Iceland are not familiar with how to properly layer their clothes. That is why I created a free Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland. It breaks down all of the essential items you need for winter and summer. I also included non-essential items that can be helpful if you have room to pack them and outfit ideas if you plan to go out to dinner or party in Reykjavík.

Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on twitter Twitter Share on pinterest Pinterest Random Fact of the Episode The Icelandic Search & Rescue teams are voluntary organizations. I go into more detail about them in the episode and how they raise money to keep in operation so they can save lives. Icelandic Word of the Episode hætta - danger

Join the All Things Iceland Patreon Community

Some of you might be aware that one of my goals for the podcast is to travel around Iceland more to interview different people in each region. In July, I set up the All Things Iceland community on Patreon. It’s a membership platform that was founded in 2013. It allows for creators like me to provide exclusive content to listeners like you in exchange for a monthly subscription.Each month I am doing Ask Me Anything videos, Live Chats, and Folklore Friday each week. Sometimes I do updates about my life in Iceland. I do not share this content on any other channel. The support from my patrons on the All Things Iceland community on Patreon will help to evolve All Things Iceland. There are several membership tiers to choose from and each tier has a variety of benefits.If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join. Let's Be Social. Here is where you can connect with me.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega.Thank you kindly for listening (and reading) and see you soon!

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Whether it‘s your first or fifth time visit Iceland, I think you will find my what I share about the Reykjanes Peninsula in this podcast episode to be quite exciting. This peninsula is a UNESCO Global GeoPark. Free Itinerary for the Reykjanes Peninsula

Free Itinerary for the Reykjanes Peninsula Grab my free itinerary for the Reykjanes Peninsula. It gives you all the names and links of places and activities that I experienced on my adventure in this amazing place. Click Here

According to the unesco.org wesbite, UNESCO Global GeoParks,

...are single, unified geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a holistic concept of protection, education and sustainable development."

unesco.org

I’ve had the pleasure of exploring different parts of the Reykjanes Peninsula and I even did a podcast episode about this place years ago.

The difference between that episode and this one is that I recently did a three-day trip exploring this amazing place. In fact, I partnered with Visit Reykjanes for this podcast episode to bring you an amazing guide to how you can enjoy this area that I feel is the most underrated in the country.

It still surprises me that so many people visit the iconic Blue Lagoon, the current erupting volcano, and come through Kelflavík international airport, which are all on the peninsula. However, they have no idea about all the amazing natural wonders, food, accommodations and activities that are right under their noses. While it is a shame, I will admit that it is nice to visit all of these places without many people being there.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nsiJ0rhY_g4 Day One of Our Reykjanes Peninsula Adventure Day one was a bit of a beast in that we packed in a lot of activities. If you end up watching the video for this, you will see some drastically different weather on day one. There were parts of the peninsula where it was raining and other parts where it was blue skies and dry. It was a bizarre weather day, but we used it to our advantage. Well, to the best of our abilities.

Seltún Geothermal Area Hot Spring Snorkleing at Kleifarvatn Lake Dinner at Café Bryggjan Lighthouse Inn Accommodations Hvaleneskirkja Church The Bridge Between Continents Stampar Craters Reykjanesviti Lighthouse & Karlinn Rock Gunnuhver Hot Springs

Day Two on The Reykjanes Peninsula

Reykjanes Sea Kayaking in Vogar Hjá Höllu Restaurant Foraging for seaweed with Eydís Mary Jónsdóttir 4x4 Adventures Hotel Berg

Day Three on the Reykjanes Peninsula

Breakfast at Hotel Berg Rokksafn - The Rock and Roll Museum The Blue Lagoon Hérastubbur Bakery Hot Stuff WWII Memorial

Random Fact of the Episode During the episode, I talk about a kind of funny and unfortunate event that happened to me on the last day of this adventure in the parking lot of the Rock and Roll Museum. Icelandic Word of the Episode Vanmeta - underestimate Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on twitter Twitter Share on pinterest Pinterest

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It’s so hard to believe that I am celebrating 5 years of living and traveling in Iceland this month. June is special to me because a lot of major events in my life have happened during this month. Some I have control over, such as moving to Iceland in 2016, getting married, and starting the podcast three years ago, so I’m celebrating those anniversaries too. One thing that I don’t think I had any control over is that I was born in June. This is a kind of random fact but I was supposed to be born on May 16th but my mom said I was not ready to come and I ended up being born a month later on June 16th. Maybe I had more control over that than I thought. Anyway, as you can see there is a lot to celebrate this month Join My Newsletter

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Five years feels special to me because I’ve been fortunate enough to learn, travel and grow as a person in Iceland throughout this time. I’ve met some amazing people, gone to gorgeous places and had the opportunity to share some of them with all of you, whether it’s on the All Things Iceland podcast, YouTube channel, Instagram or Facebook. The funny thing is that I have so much that I haven’t been able to share because there is not enough time in the day to put all the content.Living and traveling in Iceland for the last 5 years, podcasting for the last three years and running a Youtube channel about Iceland, I’ve amassed a lot of knowledge about this amazing place. While it would be great to share all of what I’ve learned, it would take a very long time to do that. So, I’ve chosen 10 things I’ve learned in the last 5 years to share.Random side note, here is the Farm Life Iceland video, where I followed Pálína around on her family's sheep farm. Now let’s jump into the 10 things that I’ve learned after living in Iceland for the last 5 years.

No place looks and feels the same even after visiting it multiple timesMy perception of Iceland has changed a lotThe taste of black liquorice has started to grow on me. Please don’t tell my husband.As much as I have traveled here, I’m constantly finding new places to see, new foods to try and amazing people to meetThe diversity of people is amazing.Icelandic is still challenging and I continue to learnBeing plant based/vegan is amazingly easy here.Budgeting has became so much more necessary after living here.After moving, I’ve grown a lot as an adult, a partner to Gunnar and as a creative person.I see the word differently now after living here. Random Fact of the episode I only started hiking when I came to Iceland. In the podcast, I talk about my first hiking experience in the country with Icelandic mountaineers, which was intense. Icelandic word of the episode umbreytast - transformation Share this post

Share on facebook Facebook Share on twitter Twitter Share on pinterest Pinterest Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega.Thank you kindly for listening (and reading) and see you soon!

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This episode is all about the Icelandic geothermal bathing culture in Iceland. Many of you might be aware that Icelanders love to soak in a hot tub no matter the weather. However, you might not be aware of some of the history, modern day culture and etiquette involved with this tradition. Before I jumped into it, I’m excited to announce that this episode is sponsored by the new Sky Lagoon geothermal spa in Reykjavík. I have to point out that I only like to promote places or things that I have personally gone to or used and can vouch for the experience. I will share some insight a little later in the episode about the Sky Lagoon because I was blown away by this new geothermal spa. A Little History About Icelander's Geothermal Bathing Culture Bathing in a geothermal pool in Iceland is a national pastime, and the origins of this activity dates back to the settlement times. When farmers from Norway came to Iceland, they found that there was an abundance of hot water coming out of the earth in different areas of the country. Washing clothes and soaking in natural Icelandic geothermal pools were two of the most common uses. The heat and steam from the geothermal water were also used to make delicious Icelandic bread called rúgbrauð.Iceland’s harsh weather takes a toll on the skin and those with skin conditions found that soaking in the warm water seemed to alleviate some symptoms. Because the water from geothermal sources is often rich with minerals, it can provide healing properties for those that immerse in it.

Iceland’s Most Famous & Historical Man Made Geothermal Bathing Pool Snorri Sturluson, a revered Icelandic historian, poet and politician, had a man made geothermal bathing pool in Reykholt back in the 13th century. It is aptly named Snorralaug, which translates to Snorri’s pool and is fed hot water by the nearby hot spring Skrifla.. What’s even more interesting is that Snorri had a tunnel built that went from his house straight to the pool so he could be sheltered to and from his beloved geothermal bathing pool. I visited this location in the summer of 2020 and the pool is beautiful. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to bathe in it today because the hot water that fills the pool can sometimes be scolding hot. While Snorralaug was once thought to be used only by Snorri, it appears that this pool was mentioned in the Landnáma, or book of settlement, back in the 10th century. Of course, it was not called Snorralaug back then but the pool in the book of settlements was in the same location. Modern Day Icelandic Bathing Culture

While it is still possible and quite fun to bathe in natural geothermal hot springs out in Icelandic nature, the majority of Icelanders opt for local pools and spas. These facilities provide a comfortable place to change, lockers to store your things securely, showers to clean off, and a relaxing place to gather. Many of these places still use geothermal energy but it’s a major upgrade from what their ancestors used.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LceJtnzj_0&t=12s Sky Lagoon Iceland - Incorporating Icelandic Geothermal Bathing Culture & the Modern Spa Experience And this is what brings me to talk more about our sponsor for this episode, which is the new gorgeous Sky Lagoon in Reykjavík. I had the amazing opportunity to check out the Sky Lagoon the weekend it opened. If I recall correctly, it opened on Friday, April 30th and we went on Sunday, May 2nd. What’s nice is that it is only about a 10 minute drive from the downtown area. This new geothermal spa in Iceland is unique because they have incorporated Icelandic culture and history into the experience.I was blown away by how beautiful the facilities are and how thoughtful the architects were when they designed the place. For starters, the outside of the building was made using Icelandic turf, which is essentially dirt and grass. That is how Icelanders made their homes for centuries after...

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I’ve been learning Icelandic for quite some time but I’ve not felt very confident when it comes to speaking. To boost my confidence, my Icelandic husband and I agreed to spend the month of March in 2021 speaking in Icelandic. We tried this experiment for the first time last July but it was quite difficult. Even though we had an idea of how it could go, we each had reservations about it because it can be emotionally draining to not be able to express yourself. While this time around was much different than the first time, there were still challenges. I think the biggest change for me this month was how much I was able to remember on the spot when I started to speak. Repetition is super helpful when learning a language and Icelandic is no different. We talk all about the challenges for both of us in this episode of the podcast. I hope you find it interesting and helpful.The audio is taken from the video that I posted below on the All Things Iceland YouTube channel.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YYQHrlqgtyE The questions that Gunnar and I answered about speaking Icelandic for a month

What were our feelings about the experiment going into it?What was most challenging during this 31 day challenge?Did you/us notice any improvement in Jewells' Icelandic during the challenge?What does Jewells need to improve?Do you plan to keep speaking Icelandic to each other? What is the plan going forward? Two Facebook groups that are helpful if you want to learn Icelandic and want community support. Practice and Learn IcelandicIcelandic Learners - Læra íslenskuWhile Icelandic is difficult for many that are learning it, just know that it is possible to do it. I think pushing through your fear about speaking is a key aspect to any language learning journey. As I work on that, I will continue to share how it's going for me and any other Icelandic language learning resources that I think will be helpful. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on twitter Twitter Share on pinterest Pinterest

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlegaThank you kindly for listening (and reading) and see you soon!

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Chris Burkard is an award-winning photographer, filmmaker and adventurer that loves Iceland. He has shared epic photographs and films that showcases Icelandic landscape and natural phenomenon. Some of his films about Iceland includes "Under an Arctic Sky" and "A Line in Sand".

Chris Burkard's love for this country is contagious and he has experienced this place in such unique ways, such as surfing under the northern lights and cycling across Iceland from east to west. Along with talking about his adventures, Chris also shares so many great pointers in this interview for travelers who plan to visit Iceland.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Db0CfLjTcso Questions I Asked Chris Burkard

You’ve been to Iceland many times. I think it’s over 40 times. What initially inspired you to visit the country? Do you have a favorite part of the country and/or food that you enjoyed while here? In the film you directed called “Under An Arctic Sky”, you and a team of other awesome surfers, some of them Icelandic, travel to the West Fjords during the winter, which can be an incredibly difficult journey because of the weather, to find waves to surf. I’m just wondering if there was ever a time during this journey where you were afraid for your life? How did you cope with being exposed to those harsh conditions over and over? Also, what kind of equipment were you using to shoot with that can still function well even when the weather was awful? The surfing under the northern lights part of the video is just epic and it even looks like the waves are just as majestic as the lights in the sky. Was this shot what you were ultimately after on this trip or was it just an added bonus to the adventure?

You and a team of experienced cyclists decided to ride your bikes unsupported across Iceland over an eleven day period in August of 2020. What was the absolute best part of the trip and the most challenging part?

Do you have any plans to come back to Iceland and capture more epic photographs and videos? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

What advice do you have for people that want to visit Iceland?

Questions for Chris Burkard From My Patrons

Shirl, a member of the All Things Iceland Patreon Community asks, “What photographers have influenced & inspired you?” Liz from the All Things Iceland Patreon Community asks, “Were there any days where you were sure the day was a bust and then got an amazing shot? If more than one, which stands out?”

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Join the All Things Iceland Patreon Community Some of you might be aware that one of my goals for the podcast is to travel around Iceland more to interview different people in each region. In July, I set up the All Things Iceland community on Patreon. It’s a membership platform that was founded in 2013. It allows for creators like me to provide exclusive content to listeners like you in exchange for a monthly subscription.

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join. Let's be social! Here is where you connect with me.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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The fissure eruption in Iceland that so many people have been anticipating happened last night on the Reykjanes Peninsula near Fagradalsfjall and is called Geldingadalsgos. In this video I specifically go over all the updates about the eruption so far. This includes when the eruption started, what authorities are saying about the ash expected, gas emission, lava flow, safety for those in the surrounding area, how long this might go on. I also teach you how to say the name of the eruption, and give some insight on how people are reacting here. I have a link to the live stream of the eruption in the description box and the news articles I am referencing.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qT4LhCYiBX8 What has happened since the eruption in Iceland When the eruption at around 9:40 PM on March 19th, 2021, it was reported that there were hundred-meter tall fountains of lava but those are no longer visibleThere is little to no ash production. I know many were concerned about that because of what happened in 2010. When I interviewed Ari Trausti Gudmundsson, a geologist in Iceland about this he said that the reason that little to no ash is expected is because the predicted eruption would happen in an area where there isn’t a large source of water. Also, there is minimal gas emissions. If you are near the eruption, like literally next to it and in the path of the wind, you would be in danger. However, the neighboring towns like Grindavik are fine. The night of eruption, authorities did tell people in Þórlakshöfn, which is a nearby town to shut their windows and turn off their radiators just in the case the wind pushed gas toward them.The images and videos of the volcanic eruption are from the Icelandic newspaper RÚV (ruv.is) A Little & Beautiful Eruption I think it is very telling that the Civil Protection agency is calling this a “little and beautiful eruption”So safety wise, we are all safe and that is expected to continue but technically it could change but like I said, that doesn't seem likely“It is on the scale of one to two kilometres, not much longer than that, the lava flows and fissureThey think that the lava will not flow over a very wide area and will probably just get thickerBecause the eruption is small many Icelanders are calling it a cute or poor little thing. We've all been glued to the news and it is so fascinating to see At first authorities have asked people to stay away but later on they gave advice about how to safely access the eruption by foot. On the night of the eruption, there was a stream of cars heading toward the eruption. And I saw some people on the live stream waving to the camera. While this specific area is closed off, the rest of the Reykjanes Peninsula is open.Authorities are still monitoring the area because another fissure could open up. Also, Ari Trausti said in our interview that this could be the beginning of more volcanic activity, but for now that has not happening. Share this post Share on facebook Facebook Share on twitter Twitter Share on pinterest Pinterest

Join the All Things Patreon Community Some of you might be aware that one of my goals for the podcast is to travel around Iceland more to interview different people in each region. In July, I set up the All Things Iceland community on Patreon. It’s a membership platform that was founded in 2013. It allows for creators like me to provide exclusive content to listeners like you in exchange for a monthly subscription.Each month I am doing Ask Me Anything videos, Live Chats, and Folklore Friday each week. Sometimes I do updates about my life in Iceland. I do not share this content on any other channel. The support from my patrons on the All Things Iceland community on Patreon will help to evolve All Things Iceland. There are several membership tiers to choose from and each tier has a variety of benefits.

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Ari Trausti Guðmundsson is a well-known Icelandic geologist, broadcaster, author, journalist, documentarian, lecturer, mountaineer and member of Icelandic Parliament. I had the pleasure of interviewing him for the podcast about the thousands of earthquakes and possible volcanic eruption. He answered as many questions of my subscribers and followers that he could and I'm so gratfeful for that. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqYFwZlbr6o&t=98sTopics Discussed with the Icelandic Geologist Ari Trausti Guðmundsson Current predictions based on data Movement of magma in the Reykjanes Peninsula How is the lava flow predicted? How accurate are the predictions Possible Gas released from the eruption The Scale of this possible eruptions vs other eruptions in Iceland What type of equipment is used to measure volcanoes? Are interferograms used for measurement? Could an eruption happen somewhere else in Iceland? Iceland is being ripped apart Could an eruption in Iceland impact electricity and hot water? Are earthquakes in other parts of the world connected to the ones in Iceland? Meaning of swarms of earthquakes vs a Big earthquake Why tremors happen? Would you be disappointed if an eruption doesn't happen? How do Icelanders deal with air pollution from volcanic eruptions? The global impact of a large volcanic eruption in Iceland Is Iceland overdue for a volcanic eruption? Popular misconceptions about volcanoes Does the weather/climate impact volcano eruptions and vice versa Has living in a place with possible eruptions affected your outlook on life? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase? What to do if the volcano does erupt on Reykjanes Peninsula? Share this Post Share on facebook Facebook Share on twitter Twitter Share on pinterest Pinterest

Join The All Things Iceland Patreon Community Some of you might be aware that one of my goals for the podcast is to travel around Iceland more to interview different people in each region. In July, I set up the All Things Iceland community on Patreon. It’s a membership platform that was founded in 2013. It allows for creators like me to provide exclusive content to listeners like you in exchange for a monthly subscription. Each month I am doing Ask Me Anything videos, Live Chats, and Folklore Friday each week. Sometimes I do updates about my life in Iceland. I do not share this content on any other channel. The support from my patrons on the All Things Iceland community on Patreon will help to evolve All Things Iceland. There are several membership tiers to choose from and each tier has a variety of benefits. If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.Let's be social! Here's where you can connect with me:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega Thank you kindly for listening (and reading) and see you soon!

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Over the last week and a half, the south of Iceland has experienced tens of thousands of earthquakes and experts told us to brace for a possible volcanic eruption. All eyes are still on Reykjanes Peninsula, the place where all the action might go down. Mainstream media in other countries have picked up the story, which has resulted in people reaching out to me to know if I am safe and to hear what life is like in Iceland as we wait to see if a volcano will go off. During this episode, I’m sharing how I feel about the situation, if we are in any danger in Iceland, what experts are saying and more.

I am not an expert in Geology or Volcanology, but I hope to have one of them on soon to talk about the situation, especially if the threat of a volcano erupting continues.

In a previous episode, I interviewed Helga Kristín, a geologist and volcano expert. She shared why Iceland is so unique from a geological standpoint. If you haven’t heard that interview, I recommend checking it out.

When Did the Earthquakes in Iceland Begin?

On Wednesday, February 24th is when we started to feel earthquakes in the south. That day we experienced an earthquake that was the magnitude of 5.7. I remember this clearly because I took a short video of it and posted it in my Instagram stories. From that day on, we started to feel earthquakes consistently but not very many of them at once. Because I live in Mosfellsbær, which is about a 15 minute drive from downtown Reykjavík, I don’t feel the earthquakes as strongly as those in the city and definitely not as strongly as people living on the Reykjanes Peninsula. It was only early this week that the frequency of earthquakes increased.

When many thousands of them started happening in a very short period of time and there was magma build up, experts started to predict that we could have a volcanic eruption. One prediction was that it could happen within a few hours. However, that didn’t happen. The seismic activity has died down but that doesn’t mean this over. Right now we are just waiting to see what else the earth communicates to us.

About the Reykjanes Peninsula

For most people, their best reference regarding the Reykjanes Peninsula is that the iconic Blue Lagoon spa is located there. Keflavík International airport is also located on this peninsula. It’s about a 40 to 50 minute drive from the airport to Reykavík. The fascinating thing to me is that this peninsula is so underrated. The diverse landscape and nature is insanely beautiful there. You can find black sand beaches, an area that looks like the highlands, geothermal hot springs and so much more. I feel like it is almost hidden in plain sight because hundreds of thousands of visitors to Iceland arrive at the airport and/or visit the Blue Lagoon and then skip the rest of the peninsula.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7pKW629KRw

How are people feeling? Are people living in Iceland safe?

The feelings of people in Iceland are mixed. Some are feeling very anxious because of the earthquakes and others are feeling excited about the prospect of an eruption. Of course, there are probably some people who don’t care at all. It’s important to know that Icelandic buildings have been made to withstand large earthquakes, so that is something we don’t need to worry about.

I’m in the group of people that are excited about all of this. Geological experts and other authorities have made it clear that we are not in any danger and they are doing their best to keep us all informed. Because of that, I feel comfortable being excited about possibly experiencing my first volcanic eruption.

5 Possible Scenarios if the Volcano Were to Erupt

Below are the possible scenarios that have been outlined by experts. It is an excerpt from an Iceland Review article:

The seismic unrest will die down in the next few days or weeks.If the seismic unrest will pick up, culminating in an earthquake up to M6 originating close to Fagradalsfjall.

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María Thelma Smáradóttir is a talented actor in Iceland. During this interview, she gives some insight on what it was like growing up in Iceland with Icelandic and Thai heritage. She was the first person of Asian descent to graduate from the Icelandic Academy of Arts in Drama. It was fascinating to hear how she had to navigate this mixed heritage and it has been like for her as a working actor in the theater and film industry here. I think it's fantastic that she had a one woman show called “Welcome Home”, which was a spoken word performance of her mother’s immigrant story from Thailand.

The most epic thing is that her first feature film was her starring alongside Mads Mikkelsen in the movie, "Arctic". How awesome is that?! As you can probably tell from many of my other interviews, I love to have different people from all walks of life in Iceland to tell their stories. I am grateful and honored that María Thelma was open to sharing hers.

Questions I Asked María Thelma during the Interview:

You are born and raised in Iceland, and you have a mix of Thai and Icelandic heritage. Can you talk about what it was like growing up in a Thai and Icelandic household? Was your mom speaking Thai to you and your siblings and your dad speaking Icelandic?

You are the first person of Asian descent to graduate from the Icelandic Academy of Arts in drama. Did you always want to be an actor when you were growing up?

Have you visited Thailand? If so, what was that like for you?

During your final year of the Icelandic Academy of the Arts, you chose to do a spoken word play called “Welcome Home”, which was performed at the National Theater of Iceland. Can you explain what the play was about and the inspiration behind it?

How was the play received in Iceland? What did your mother think of it?

What has being an actor been like for you? Have you found that you get many roles or has it been a struggle?

In 2018, you starred alongside Mads Mikkelsen in “Arctic”, which was your first feature film. What was that experience like? How was it working with such a big name in the industry?

Do you think the film industry in Iceland is changing to showcase more diversity in the country? Meaning, are they showing more Icelandic actors that have mixed heritage as Icelanders and not foreign nationals or visitors? Or is this something that still needs to be improved?

What advice do you have for people who want to act, whether it is on screen or on a stage in a theater?

What is your favourite Icelandic word or phrase?

Join the All Things Iceland Patreon Community

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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I know that Black History Month is a US tradition, I still want to dedicate the month of February to telling the stories of Black and mixed race people in the country. If you are curious about some awesome Icelandic Black history, I suggest watching my video about Hans Jonatan, Iceland’s first black citizen and listening to the podcast episode I did with the Icelandic author of the book about Hans Jonatan, Gisli Pálsson.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40chlDBLKwU

To kick that off this month of sharing Black and mixed race stories here, I’m sharing my interview with Innocentia Fiati "Mama Ghana" Friðgeirsson. She is lovingly called Mama Ghana and she is an absolute ball of sunshine. Her happiness is infectious and she has such amazing energy. She has been here for almost two decades and has been spreading her sunshine wherever she goes.

Before jumping into the interview, I want to share the winners of the Icelandic book giveaway. First, thank you to everyone that entered. I choose the winners at random and here they are:

Rodolfo won The Story of the Blue Planet

Kate won LoveStar

Kristi won On Time and Water

Join the All Things Iceland Patreon Community

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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It was such a pleasant surprise to have Áslaug Arna Sigurbjörnsdóttir, the Minister of Justice in Iceland, as my guest this week. She leads quite a busy life as a Parliamentarian and Minister, and it was great she was able to find time to chat.

During the interview, Áslaug Arna shares the positives and negatives of being in this position of power at such a young age and as a woman. Some of the other topics we talk about are the events that led up to her becoming the Minister of Justice, gender based discrimination in the workplace (including within Parliament), about refugees seeking asylum in Iceland, and more. I gained so much insight into Iceland through this episode and I’m excited to share this interview with you.

GIVEAWAY – Enter to Win One of Andri Snær’s Books!!

I’m giving away three of Andri Snær’s books, which are below.

On Time & WaterLoveStarThe Story of the Blue Planet

To enter win one of the books, all you have to do is leave a positive review for the All Things Iceland podcast (you can use this link to easily do it), take a screenshot of your review, and send that screenshot to me in an email at jewells(at)fromforeigntofamiliar(dot)com. If you have already left a review for the podcast, please just send me a screenshot of that review.

The Questions I asked Áslaug Arna During the Interview

Can you talk a bit about your experience in the police force?

It seems that you started out being involved in your party, Sjálfstæðisflokkurinn (Independence party), quite young. Did you always know that you wanted to be a politician?

Were you inspired or influenced by your father, who is a supreme court lawyer in Iceland, to study law?

When appointed, you became the second youngest minister in Icelandic history and the youngest female minister. Do you feel like people assume you are too young for the job and/or inexperienced?

Back in 2017, you were on Kastljós talking about gender based discrimination in the work place. You shared that you had received unwanted sexual comments. Rather, you received it for having sexual relations with men in your party. Do you feel that gender based discrimination is still a problem in Parliament and in other workplaces in Iceland?

I remember just around the time you were appointed, there was a scandal going on with the National Police Commissioner. What was it like just starting this job and already having this national scandal to deal with?

How do you deal with so much public criticism or scrutiny when you have made a decision about something that many don’t agree with?

What do you do to relieve the inevitable stress that comes along with your job? -

Recently, you proposed a bill that would abolish the naming committee in Iceland. Why do you want to get rid of this committee? -Aslaug Arna on opening the country up so more foreigners can live and work here

Can you explain, without going into detail about individual refugee cases, what makes it difficult for the Icelandic government to allow these people to stay in the country?

What advice do you have for people that want to get involved in politics? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

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Gógó Starr is an Icelandic drag queen that is well known in the country. Gógó made history by being the first ever drag queen fjallkonan, or woman of the mountains, which is a symbol of the Icelandic nation and a very important part of the celebrations of Iceland’s independence. The celebration of the independence of the nation happens every June 17th. Aldís Amah, who I interviewed a while back on the podcast, was the first woman of color fjallkonan in 2019. It’s a huge honor to be fjallkonan and Gógó Starr had this role in 2018. In addition to that, Gógó co-founded Drag Súgur in 2015 after winning the annual Icelandic drag contest.

The drag show became so popular that it was turned into a monthly event at Gaukurinn that is open to all adults who want to attend. Hopefully, when COVID is over, the show will resume. I especially love that the show is all about inclusivity. Gógó Starr goes into more about how inclusive it is during the interview. It was an absolute blast to do this interview.

Video Interview with Gógó Starr

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOR8cVBksY4

Questions Asked Gógó Starr during the Interview

Drag queens, and kings and drag shows are so common in Iceland now, but what was it like when you were growing up here? Were Icelanders open to these type of performances and performers?

When did you realize that performing in drag is something you wanted to try?

When did the drag scene in Iceland really take off?

After you won the annual Icelandic Drag contest, you co-founded Drag-Súgur, a monthly drag show and variety night held at Gaukurinn in 2015. What was your motivation behind started this show?

How was Drag-súgur received in Iceland when you first started it?

In 2018, you were the fjallkonan, or the Lady of the Mountain, which is the traditional living symbol of Iceland featured every Independence Day on June 17th. What did

You’re a full-time entertainer, producer and performer in Iceland. Did you ever imagine when you first started doing drag, that you would be doing it full-time?

I love that Drag-súgur is all about inclusivity. Can you talk about who some of the “drag royalties” that perform?

Pride in Reykjavík is becoming such a big celebration each year. Can you share what you like about Pride here and why you think people should come and check it out?

What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

GIVEAWAY – Enter to Win One of Andri Snær’s Books!!

I’m giving away three of Andri Snær’s books, which are below.

On Time & WaterLoveStarThe Story of the Blue Planet

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If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.

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Claudia Ashanie Wilson is a human rights lawyer and activist who moved from her home country Jamaica to Iceland in 2001. When Claudia came to Iceland she didn’t speak Icelandic nor had she previous been to law school. Through a lot of hard work, she became fluent in Icelandic. She received her Masters Degree in 2014 in international law from the Reykjavík University. Claudia passed the Icelandic bar examinations to become a district court attorney in Iceland. By passing the bar, she became the first non-European person to do that in Iceland.

Since her move to Iceland, Claudia has been very active in human rights initiatives both by in governmental and non-governmental organizations. She has served as Vice President for the Women of Multicultural Ethnicity Network (W.O.M.E.N.) in Iceland, Social Activities Coordinator for asylum seekers on behalf of the Red Cross, and was appointed by the Ministry of Welfare to the Welfare Watch of Iceland.

She currently sits on the board of representatives for SOS Children's Villages in Iceland, the boards of Amnesty International, Iceland Chapter and the Icelandic Equality Fund.

Claudia recently became a partner at the law firm Réttur Aðalsteinsson & Partners, where she has worked since 2013. She is also a guest lecturer at United Nations University Gender Equality Studies and Training Programme (UNU-GEST), the School of Business and at the University of Iceland as well as the School of Law at University of Iceland and Reykjavík University.

Questions I Asked Claudia During the Interview

Where are you originally from and how did you end up in Iceland?

What was it like adjusting to life here? Iceland is quite different from Jamaica. Did you have any culture shock? Was it a difficult adjustment?

What was it like learning Icelandic?

What inspired you to study law here?

Did you have any idea that you would be making history just by graduating from law school in Iceland?

Recently, you made partner at your law firm Réttur. Congratulations again! What kind of human rights cases do you take on?

Did you experience any discrimination or racism when you first came or even in present times?

You have been named one of Iceland’s most influential women in the 2020 issue of "June 19 Magazine". Congrats! Representation is such an important part of people feeling empowered anywhere they live. Do you feel like Iceland is understanding that and is trying to showcase the diverse, amazing people, like yourself, that live here?

You are involved with different organizations here, such as the Iceland Chapter of Amnesty International, W.O.M.E.N. and others. Why is it important for you to be involved with these organizations?

What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rz_icvGq2IM

GIVEAWAY – Enter to Win One of Andri Snær’s Books!!

I’m giving away three of Andri Snær’s books, which are below.

On Time & WaterLoveStarThe Story of the Blue Planet

Join the All Things Iceland Patreon Community

Each month I am doing Ask Me Anything videos, Live Chats, and Folklore Friday each week. Sometimes I do updates about my life in Iceland.

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To kick off the new year, I'm sharing my interview with Andri Snær Magnason, an award-winning author, environmental activist and director. He has been fighting to protect Iceland's beautiful nature. Andri Snær was on the show early on and it is great to have him back because so much has happened in his life since we last spoke. I recommend checking out part 1 and part 2 of those interviews.

One viral moment was when he and some others had a funeral for Okjökull. Ok mountain used to be a glacier but due to climate change the ice has melted from it and it has lost its glacier status. Andri Snær wrote a letter to the future that was printed on a plaque and placed on OK. He also recently did a TEDTalk on Sólheimajökull glacier and released a new book titled “On Time & Water”. This book has not yet been released in the United States.

Just to give you a bit about the book, It’s “Taking a path to climate science through ancient myths about sacred cows, stories of ancestors and relatives and interviews with the Dalai Lama, Magnason allows himself to be both personal and scientific. The result is an absorbing mixture of travel, history, science and philosophy.”

I am a big fan of his book “LoveStar”, a science fiction novel that takes place in Iceland. I wouldn’t call myself a science fiction nerd but I do enjoy a story that mixes science, humor and just the right amount of absurd. Similar to Kurt Vonnegut, Andri Snær does a great job of adding off those elements into the book. I highly recommend it.

GIVEAWAY - Enter to Win One of Andri Snær's Books!!

I'm giving away three of Andri Snær's books, which are below.

On Time & WaterLoveStarThe Story of the Blue Planet

Members of the All Things Iceland Patreon Community get an additional entry to win. To join that community, check out this link.

Watch This Interview about Protecting Iceland's Beautiful Nature on YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVIspPxpF5k

Join the All Things Iceland Patreon Community

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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The Icelandic Christmas season is so much fun. Well, it’s normally a lot of fun but we are doing the best to enjoy it even though COVID is keeping many of us from our loved ones. While I have done an episode about Icelandic Christmas way back in the day of the podcast, I wanted to share with you the full breakdown of this time from the point of view of an Icelander. My lovely friend Íris Stefanía joined me for this episode to share her modern take on Icelandic Christmas traditions.

We filmed this at her place and a link to the video on the All Things Iceland YouTube channel will be available in the show notes of this episode. During our chat we go over what is happening in Iceland from the start of advent until the last day of Christmas here, which is January 6th. I love that Íris still does some traditional things with her family but has also found ways to mix in her own style and add a modern touch. We had a lot of fun eating piparköku (gingerbread) and laufabrauð, drinking malt og appelsín (a popular mix that is available only during holidays here), and eating mondlugrautinn, which is a rice porridge. Why that is done will be explained during our chat.

Icelandic Christmas & New Year Traditions Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2myOZ_sYqo

The 13 Icelandic Yule Lads

Stekkjastaur (Sheep-Cote Clod): He tries to suckle female sheep in farmer's shedsGiljagaur (Gully Gawk): He steals foam from buckets of cow milkStúfur (Stubby): He's short and steals food from frying pansÞvörusleikir (Spoon Licker): He licks spoonsPottaskefill (Pot Scraper or Pot Licke)r: He steals unwashed pots and licks them cleanAskasleikir (Bowl Licker): He steals bowls of food from under the bed (back in the old days, Icelanders used to sometimes store bowls of food there - convenient for midnight snacking?)Hurðaskellir (Door Slammer): He stomps around and slams doors, keeping everyone awakeSkyrgámur (Skyr Gobbler): He eats up all the Icelandic yogurt (skyr)Bjúgnakrækir (Sausage Swiper): He loves stolen sausagesGluggagægir (Window Peeper): He likes to creep outside windows and sometimes steal the stuff he sees insideGáttaþefur (Door Sniffer): He has a huge nose and an insatiable appetite for stolen baked goodsKetkrókur (Meat Hook): He snatches up any meat left out, especially smoked lambKertasníkir (Candle Stealer): He steals candles, which used to be sought-after items in Iceland

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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Because I’m very much in the holiday spirit, I'm dedicating the next two episodes, this one included, to Christmas related content in Iceland. Today, I have a special guest that has been on the show before, and that is Ólafur S.K. Þórvaldz, also known as Óli the brewmaster at Ægir Brugghús. Icelandic Christmas beer has quickly become an important part of the holiday season for brewers in Iceland and for those who enjoy drinking the beers, such as myself. Because of this, I thought it would be fun to have Óli pick his top 5 favorite Icelandic Christmas beers from craft breweries for this episode.

To be fair, he picked four beers and was nice enough to let me include my favorite one. Full disclaimer, my favorite is not from a craft brewery by Icelandic standards but as Óli points out in this episode, all of the breweries in Iceland would be considered craft breweries if you compare it to the U.S. or other countries with much larger consumption. We did this Icelandic Christmas Beer tasting virtually. We're both tasting the beers and talking about what they tasted like to each of us. We also talk about the growing trend of Christmas beers in Iceland, give some travel advice and more.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gu99ZHJmyH4

The Icelandic Christmas Beers we Taste Tested During the Interview

Jóli Bæjó by Mói Ölgerðafélag
Ekkert Sérstaklega Jólaleg Jól by Ægir Brugghús
Ris a la Sour by Smiðjan Brugghús
Grýla by Ölverk
Egils Malt Jólabjór by Ölgerðin

If you like to try beers, I definitely recommend coming to Iceland during the Christmas season. The amount of variety on offer is quite a lot for such a small country.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Birta Abiba Þórhallsdóttir, who was crowned Miss Universe Iceland in 2019. Normally, I don’t follow beauty pageants, regardless of if it is in the US or Iceland, but Birta’s story really stuck out to me.

I read an article about her experience with racism in Iceland. She's an Icelander that has mixed heritage. She was born and raised in the town that I live in, Mosfellsbær. I was surprised to hear that she experienced physical and verbal abuse as a kid just because of her skin color. She will go into more detail during the interview, but it breaks my heart to know that she did many things to try to change her appearance, such as her skin color and hair, because she wanted to fit in.

Her journey to self-love was a tough one but she preserved. I think it is absolutely amazing that she ended up becoming Miss Universe Iceland because she is able to show the world that Icelanders can also be People of Color with beautiful curly afros.

Here is the link to the novel "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison, which I referenced in the interview.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QTXWM98D_7c

Questions I Asked Birta Abiba Þórhallsdóttir

You were born and raised in Mósfellsbær. What was it like for you growing up here? Did you encounter any issues because you looked different than the other kids?

You’ve talked about how learning to love yourself took a long time. What kind of things did you do to help you get to a place of loving who you are and what you look like even though you are surrounded by images and people that don’t look like you?

Were you doing pageants as a child? If not, what made you decide to get involved in competing for the Miss Iceland title?

Was the Miss Iceland competition like? Did you feel accepted into that world, even though this was your first time competing?

I think it is amazing that you won Miss Iceland on your 20th birthday! How did your life change after winning?

What was the reaction in the country when you won Miss Iceland?

It’s amazing that you went from being bullied for being different as a child to representing Iceland on the world stage in Miss Universe. What was the experience like of competing in that pageant with all of these other women from around the world?

I’ve read that you have already written a full length novel and that you want to be an international author. What kind of things do you like to write about? Do you have a book in the works?

What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Join the All Things Iceland Patreon Community

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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Back in December of 2018, Bára Halldórsdóttir outed herself as the whistleblower of the Klaustur Bar Scandal. During this podcast episode, I sit down with Bára to talk about how the scandal unfolded and how it has affected her life. This scandal involved politicians saying horrible things while drinking together in Klaustur bar. Bára happened to be in that same bar and recorded a lot of what these Icelandic politicians were saying. Bára is a whistleblower, artist, and disability activist. Along with the Klaustur scandal, we talk about a range of fascinating topics.

During the interview, Bára shares why it was important for her to record this conversation and share it with the country. Because she has a chronic illness, the stress brought on by the scandal has deeply impacted her health. The whole conversation was fascinating and eye-opening for me. I think scandals like this one provide insight into the country that is not often seen or heard unless you live here and engage with people about the topic. Also, I’m glad that Bára was interested in sharing her experience as a whistle blower and disabled person in Iceland because those identities are seemingly at odds.

Questions I asked Bára about the Klaustur Scandal & Her Life

Take us back to that day in November 2018. What was going through your mind when you heard these MPs in Klaustur bar making such awful comments?

Were you afraid that they would notice you recording?

What was the reaction around the country when the recording was shared?

Had you considered not revealing that it was you that recorded it and staying anonymous?

When it was revealed that it was you that had recorded them, you were thrust into the public eye. It must have been quite hard adjusting to that seeing pictures of yourself all over the news, people weighing in their own opinions about recording the MPs and whatnot. How did you deal with all of that?

At one point, four of the MPs were threatening to sue you for violating their right to privacy. That must have been really stressful and tough considering that you have a chronic disease.

Can you share a bit about the chronic disease you have and the effects this incident has had on your life?

You’re an activist and artist. How are you blending your activism and art together to bring awareness about people who don’t have the same physical abilities as many others?

What has the reception in Iceland been like to you bringing awareness to lack of understanding that people with different physical abilities are not always being considered at different facilities? Or that they are ignored all together?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Connect with Bára on Social Media

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Attend the Book launch for "The Viking Immigrants: Icelandic North Americans"

In Friday, December 4th, I'm hosting a free virtual book launch for “The Viking Immigrants: Icelandic North Americans” by LK Bertram. The book examines the multi-sensory side of Icelanders that migrated to North America between 1870 and 1914. I’ve been reading the book and even though it is historical text, LK writes it in a way that is entertaining. The book examines the past through rare photographs, interviews, artefacts, and early recipes. By revealing the hidden histories behind everyday traditions, The Viking Immigrants maps the transformation of Icelandic North American culture over a century and a half.

Win A Copy of the Book and Vínarterta

The guest of honor at the book launch is the First Lady of Iceland, Eliza Reid. You will be able to hear her speak with LK Bertram and will be able to submit questions for them. The other added bonus is that attendees to the book launch on December 4th at 12:00 PM EST will be entered to win a copy of the book and a vínarterta. There will be several copies given away, so there is a good chance of winning one. Here is the link to register.

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This might be a short episode but it is very special because I have two big announcements! As you can tell from the title of the episode, one of the announcements is that I’m giving away a handmade Icelandic sweater. The other is that Gunnar, my husband, and I have partnered up with the Reykjavík Grapevine to create an All Things Iceland box full of Icelandic goodies. The Grapevine is hosting the box on their site.

I have made a video on my YouTube channel explaining all the awesomeness in the box and how you can get free shipping from Iceland to anywhere in the world. Which if you don’t know, shipping from Iceland can be quite expensive. By using my special code, you save a lot. Gunnar and I both chose different things to put in the box. In the video we talk about why we each choose these specific things. Altogether there are nine things in the box, which I think gives it some great variety. I know that many of you wished you could have come to Iceland this year, so we wanted to bring a bit of Iceland to you this holiday season.

How to Win an Icelandic Sweater

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7H3T88foVOk

I felt like it was important to announce this now just so you have enough time to get the box for the holiday season. Just note that there are limited edition items in the box that are specific to winter and the upcoming holidays. Also, if you win the sweater, you can choose to get one for yourself or a loved one, which is another awesome gift.

Buy the All Things Iceland box.

The video also has the details about how you can enter to win the handmade Icelandic sweater. The added bonus is that I am also giving away a signed copy of “The Little Book of The Icelanders” by Alda Sigmundsdóttir. I was fortunate to interview her early on when I started this podcast. Her book gives you a great insight into Icelandic habits.

So, one person will win a sweater and one person will win a signed copy of the book.

Of course, if you follow All Things Iceland on YouTube, it will definitely be there.

Join All Things Iceland on Patreon

Lastly, the members of the All Things Iceland Patreon community got early access to the video and how to enter to win an Icelandic sweater. I shared it with them yesterday and I made the video public today. So, in addition to the content that is put on that platform, which is not posted anywhere else, every membership tier gets early access to giveaways, special discounts and promotions. If you have been considering becoming a member or are just hearing about this membership now, just know that there are many benefits to being part of that community. Click here to join me on Patreon.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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Gunnar Freyr, a talented Icelandic photographer and videographer, makes a living traveling around Iceland, and sometimes Greenland. On Instagram he is known as Icelandic_explorer and has over 360,000 followers. His images and videos capture the Icelandic landscape in such a mesmerizing way.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y7Rn59vlPHQ&t=3807s

During the chat, Gunnar Freyr shares how he left a very stressful office job and made a career as a creator. In addition, he talks about places he recommends for first timers to the country, advice he had for people that also want to be content creators, and gives tips on how to capture the northern lights with your smartphone or camera. It was quite fun to chat with him and I hope you enjoy this interview.

Questions I asked Gunnar Freyr

What was the journey like for you to become a full-time creator traveling around Iceland taking amazing photos and videos?Even though you’re Icelandic, Icelandic, I’m wondering if there is any other reason you decided to focus on Iceland as the place you mostly take photos and videos of?What kind of challenges have you faced while out in Iceland doing your work?Can you share one of your epic adventure stories?What are your favorite places in Iceland to visit?What things do you recommend for first time visitors to Iceland to do?Many people want to get great photos and videos of Icelandic nature, especially the northern lights. What tips and gear suggestions do you have for those people?Is there a place in Iceland you haven’t been to yet that you really want to visit?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

If you are enjoying the All Things Iceland podcast, please leave a review on whatever platform you are listening to it on, if you haven’t already. I love sharing my passion for Iceland and your review can help another person to find the show and learn more about this awesome country.

Join Me on Patreon

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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Nichole Leigh Mosty is an American that moved to Iceland in 1999. During our chat, we talk about the challenges she faced when she first moved and her experience being the first woman of foreign origin to be the speaker in Icelandic Parliament. Nichole shares a lot of insights and definitely does not hold back about what she has experienced, especially when it comes to finding a job when she first arrived and learning the language.

Nichole is very active in helping women of foreign origin. She is the chairperson and board member of W.O.M.E.N, which is an acronym form Women of Multicultural Ethnicity Network in Iceland. This association helps to support women if foreign origin, which is amazing. There will be a link to the organization in the show notes if you want to read more about it.

Video Interview with Nichole

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMdxpIDgvSY&t=179s

Question I Asked Nichole During the Interview

You came to Iceland back in 1999. Can you share a bit about where you are from and what brought you to Iceland?

Do you have any culture shock when you moved? Were there any Icelandic foods that really stuck out to you or habits of Icelander’s that were surprising to you?

You’re fluent in Icelandic and I’m curious to know about your path to get there? Did you take classes or use some other methods of learning?

Was it difficult to learn? What tips do you have for people who want to learn the language?

You have worked quite a lot on projects that help women of foreign origin. Specifically, you have set up swimming courses, the Icelandic village and you are currently the Board member and Chairperson of W.O.M.E.N. (Women Of Multicultural Ethnicity Network in Iceland). As a woman of foreign origin in Iceland, can you share some of the challenges that this group faces?

I saw an article in DV back in July of 2019 where you point out racism in an online advertisement for jobs at the national hospital, Landspitali. Can you talk about what that ad and why you felt it was important to speak out about it?

On a wider scale, what are some of the challenges that people of foreign origin in Iceland (as a whole) face?

It’s amazing that you are the first 1st generation immigrant to be elected to hold the office of Parliamentarian in Iceland and the first woman of foreign origin to ever sit as speaker in Althingi.

How was it for you being a member of Parliament? What did you enjoy and what was challenging for you?

What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Join the All Things Iceland Community on Patreon

I’d like to give a shout out to Danielle, Melton, Mark, Betty, Noa, Paul, Julia and Oliver. They are all members of the Ásgarður tier in the All Things Iceland patreon community. Members of that tier get a shout out in the podcast each month. They also take part in Live Chat groups with me each month, Ask Me Anything and other benefits. There are four tiers of membership. If you would like to help support the evolution of All Things Iceland and get access to awesome content only available on Patreon, you can join at patreon.com/allthingsiceland.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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Elisa is originally from the Netherlands. After falling in love with Iceland during a vacation many years ago, she decided to quit her career in media in her home country and move to the land of fire and ice.

Elisa initially planned to stay for a few months. During that time she intended to travel around and work as a horse riding guide. Well, a few months turned into years and she hasn’t looked back. During her time here, she has become a photographer, specifically of the majestic Icelandic horse. She has been posting beautiful photos of the horses she works with on Instagram. Her account is @elisa_in_Iceland. Funny enough, that is how I came in contact with her.

Ways That Iceland Have Changed Elisa's Life

Even more awesome is that we finally had the chance to meet this summer. We took Icelandic B2 together, which is an intermediate course for the language. In addition to Elisa taking awesome photos and learning the language, she is an avid knitter and is a member of an Icelandic church choir.

During the interview, we talk about how much Iceland has changed her life, the differences between living in the Netherlands and Iceland, and so much more. We had such a blast chatting and I hope you enjoy this interview.

Join the All Things Iceland Community on Patreon

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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Halla Ólafsdóttir, a young Icelander, shares with me why she feels that people in her generation are moving away from the Reykjavík area in favor of the countryside.

Halla has a BA degree in Icelandic language and creative writing at the University of Iceland. At the Free University of Berlin, she received an MA in Visual and Media Anthropology. Halla moved back to Iceland in 2014. Even though she was born and raised in Reykjavík, she chose to move to Ísafjörður in 2015. While there, she's been working for news and other programs of RÚV, the National broadcasting service, in the Westfjords.

It was fascinating for me to hear what she felt is driving a young Icelander, like herself, to more remote places of the country. It certainly was not what I was expecting to hear as a trend in Iceland. However, after this discussion and living in Ísafjörður for three weeks, I can see why a young Icelander would gravitate towards the countryside.

I hope you enjoy this interview.

All Things Iceland Won an Award!

It is with awe and gratitude that I share that tonight I was presented with an Equal Rights Award from the town of Mosfellsbær. This award is for the work I’ve been doing on the All Things Iceland podcast and YouTube channel to share the experiences of different foreign nationals and Icelanders in this country. It’s an honor for me to share those stories and to shine a light on the diversity in this country. I’m so grateful that the town I live in sees the value in that work. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for this award and helping to lift up diverse voices in our community.

Join the All Things Iceland Community on Patreon

I would like to give a shout out to Julia. She is one of the newest members of the Ásgarður tier in the All Things Iceland community on Patreon. Julia and the other members in the community are helping to support the evolution of All Things Iceland and I greatly appreciate it.

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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This week, I share the fun chat I had with Mugison, a talented Icelandic artist that has been making waves on a local and global scale. We talked about the time he spent living in Africa as a child, musicians that inspire him, the impact of Icelandic nature on his music, his epic music festival Aldrei Fór Ég Suður (I never went South), and so much more.

Why I was in the Westfjords

During my time in the Westfjords, I had the opportunity to interview some fascinating people in the area. My main reason for going to Ísafjörður was to take an intense three week Icelandic course at the University Center of the Westfjords. I’m planning to share a full review of that experience on the All Things Iceland Patreon, so keep a look out for that.

Of course, I couldn’t go to the Westfjords and not get some interviews for the podcast. I was fortunate that Mugison lives in Súðavík and was open to chatting with me. It was such a blast to chat with him, and I felt like I was talking to one of my friends. I hope you enjoy this interview and the others from that area that I will be sharing in the near future.

Questions I Asked Mugison During the Interview

You were born in Reykjavík and your family moved to Ísafjörður until you were the age of six but after that your family left Iceland to live in Cape Verde in West Africa. Can you talk a bit about why your family moved there and what was life like for you?

What was it like coming back to Iceland after living abroad at such a young age?

At what time in your life did you start to become interested in music? Did something happen that immediately attracted you to being a musician or did it kind of gradually enter into your life?

What musicians in Iceland and abroad have impacted you and inspired you as an artist?

Where do you look for inspiration to create your music?

What advice do you have budding musical artists in Iceland?

How has your musical style evolved over time?

You’ve done collaborations with several artists, including the iconic Icelandic singer Bubbi Morthens. Do you have any dream collaborations that you would like to do?

Back in 2004, you and your father started a music festival called Aldrei fór ég Suður here in Ísafjörður. Can you explain a little bit about the festival and what makes it unique?

Your name is Örn but you go by Mugison, why that name?

As you’ve grown in popularity here and abroad, how has it been adjusting to being known? If you go to Reykjavík or abroad and walk around, do people try to stop you for pictures?

What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Join the All Things Iceland Community on Patreon

I would like to give a special shout out to Betty, Noa, Paul, Danielle, Melton, and Mark. They are members of the Ásgarður tier, which is the Land of the Gods in Norse Mythology. Members of that tier get a special shout out on the podcast each month. There are also Live group chats with me and a special gift that was made in Iceland sent to them from me each year.

If you would like to join the community, go to patreon.com/allthingsiceland. I look forward to having you join.

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Tyler Wacker embarked on an incredible cycling journey from California to Ísafjörður in the Westfjords. For those of you who don't follow me on Instagram, I am currently in Ísafjörður taking Icelandic courses. Coincidentally, Tyler is at the same school, even though he is studying something completely different than me.

After working in the transportation engineering industry for six years and feeling unfulfilled with his work, Tyler decided it was time to set off on a bicycle tour around the perimeter of the United States starting and ending in San Francisco, where he was currently living.

The goals he had set for the journey were to assess where his life was and figure out how best to use his hands to address the climate crisis. Having mentally and physically prepared through a variety of endurance sports over the past few years, his new lifestyle came almost naturally until COVID forced him to pause his tour.

After sheltering in place for ten weeks, he set off on his bike again but had revised his plan after he learned he had been accepted into the University Centre of the Westfjords in Isafjordur. He would now bike from Texas to Minneapolis and then to Boston to catch a flight to Keflavik and bike six days through Iceland to his new home.

During the interview, we dive into Tyler’s experience cycling in the U.S. and in Iceland, some of the challenges that he faced, the positive experience he had, and more.

You can find Tyler on Instagram at @tjwack.

Questions I Asked Tyler Wacker During the Interview

Can you share the events that led to you to do this epic journey?

Had you been to Iceland before?

Had you been to the Westfjords before cycling here?

What was it like pre-COVID traveling in the United States?

Do you encounter any difficulties when cycling in the US because of COVID?

What was it like when you arrived in Iceland?

What has your cycling journey been like here?

We’ve been encountering a second outbreak here. How has your experience here, regarding COVID, been different than in the U.S.?

How did it feel when you finally arrived in Ísafjörður?

What are your studying and how is school so far?

I read that your planning to due to the Boston Marathon being cancelled that people who registered for it can run it wherever they are. You’re planning to do it in the Westfjords. Have you mapped out where you plan to run?

What’s your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Join All Things Iceland on Patreon

If you’re not familiar with Patreon, it is a membership platform that allows creators like me to provide exclusive content to listeners like you. To learn more and join the community, check it out here.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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Satu Rämö was born and raised in Finland, but has been living in Iceland for almost 20 years. She shares a lot about her life in Iceland with Finnish people and she has a huge following in Finland. I think it is safe to say that she is the official Finn in Iceland, as well as a creative entrepreneur, author and social media nerd.

I met Satu through her husband Björgvin. He and I used to work at the same company. One day I was talking about the trials and tribulations of learning Icelandic and Björgvin said that his wife had gone through it and I should read her book, which is titled “My Journey to Iceland: 10 Crazy years and I am still here”. It was so interesting to learn about her life, the different cultural adjustments, how she met her husband and so much more.

During the interview we talked about a variety of topics. Of course one of the questions had to do with the differences she has noticed between Iceland and Finland. To connect with Satu on Instagram, her account is @satu_ramo.

Questions I Asked Satu Rämö During the Interview

You’re from Finland and I’m just curious about what brought you to Iceland?

Your book, which is titled, “My Journey to Iceland: 10 Crazy years and I am still here”, which was published in 2016, gives a good timeline of your journey here. One story that stuck out to me is when you met some Icelanders who were on vacation. It was during the economic boom in Iceland, so Icelanders were spending money like crazy. What was it like to be in the country before the economic meltdown?

What are some surprising cultural differences that you observed between Finnish and Icelandic people when you started living here?

Finnish, like Icelandic, is considered a difficult language to learn. What was it like learning Icelandic here?

Do you have any advice for people that are learning the language or who want to learn it?

You have a large following in Finland. What is the perception of Iceland in Finland?

And vice versa, what do Icelandic people think of Finnish people?

You and your family moved from downtown Reykjavík to Ísafjörður in the Westfjords last year. What inspired you to make that move and what is life like for you in a smaller town?

What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Join All Things Iceland on Patreon

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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During this week's episode, I spoke with LK Bertram about the very large emigration of Icelanders to Canada in the 1800s.

LK Bertram is the author of The Viking Immigrants: Icelandic North Americans, and is an associate professor in the Department of History at the University of Toronto. Born and raised in Winnipeg, she also has family roots in Öxnadalur and is the proud parent of twin 3-year olds. For some fab intel on Icelandic North American culture, history, and life, check out her instagram @thevikingimmigrants.

Because LK lives in Canada, we did a virtual interview. It was such a blast to chat with her. The insight she shared about the Icelandic settlement in North America was beyond fascinating. I look forward to reading her book to learn more.

The Questions I asked LK Bertram during the Interview

Can you give us a little background about you?

You are grew up in Canada but have Icelandic roots. Until I looked into it, I wasn’t aware of the pretty big migration of Icelanders to Canada. Can you talk a bit about why they migrated?

Did Icelanders face any prejudice or difficulties as immigrants?

How is it for Icelanders living there in present day?

You wrote a book called The Viking Immigrants. What inspired you to write it?

Have Icelandic immigrant traditions had any impact on Canada or North America?

Who are some of your favorite historical figures who are Icelandic immigrants to Canada?

Did you grow up learning Icelandic?

On your Instagram page, you posted about the significance of supernatural beliefs to Icelandic immigrants and especially women in Winnipeg. Can you talk a little about what that was so important?

Have you visited Iceland, if so how did that feel? Were you seeing similar cultural traditions as in Canada?

What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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The Viking Immigrants: Icelandic North Americans (Studies in Gender and History)

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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

What made you interested in studying Geology and volcanology?

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

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

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

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

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

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?

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?

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

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?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

I hope you enjoyed this episode of All Things Iceland. Make sure to share this interview if you found it interesting and leave a 5-star review.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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This week I had the pleasure of chatting with James McDaniel about Horticulture in Iceland. For anyone that is not familiar with that word, horticulture is the art or practice of garden cultivation and management. Ever since learning about greenhouses in Iceland and just about different plants growing here in general, I have been looking forward to the day when I can talk to someone about this on the show.

Background About James McDaniel

James is a horticulturist that is focused on geothermal horticulture, sustainable production in extreme climates, and emerging technologies for food production. Currently, he is at the Agricultural University of Iceland (AUI) working with fertilizer experiments for an Icelandic startup named Atmonia.

The goal is to develop new environmentally friendly methods for fertilizer production. Just as a side note, the Agricultural University of Iceland is where we recorded the interview.

Some of James’ past work includes organic agriculture consumer trends research in Beijing, sustainable gardening for small markets in the United States, seed germination techniques using Martian regolith simulants, test trials of geothermal runoff from residential apartments for local food production in Iceland, as well as LED grow-light trials for the Innovation Center of Iceland.

Random Fact About James

Another fascinating fact about James is that he studied Mandarin Chinese for many years and worked as translator/interpreter for the language. During the interview we get into how he ended up in Iceland, the work he has been doing and more.

Additionally, James showed me the space that he uses to grow plants for his research projects. With his permission, I captured a short video of that space and some of the plants there. I recently shared a short clip of the space with the members of the All Things community on Patreon.

You can connect with James via Instagram.

Questions I asked James McDaniel During the Interview

Can you give us a little background about you. Where are you from and what made you interested in studying horticulture?

Why come to Iceland to study it? How long have you been here?

What are you focusing your studies on while in school here?

What is the horticulture industry like in Iceland?

Do you see yourself working here in this industry?

When you came to Iceland, was there anything about the culture that was unfamiliar or surprising to you?

What has it been like adjusting to life here?

I saw on your Instagram bio that you speak Mandarin, which is cool and kind of random. Do you also speak Icelandic?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Join the All Things Iceland Patreon Community

I learned a lot talking to James and I hope you enjoy this interview. Before we jump into it, I want to give a shout-out to Danielle, she is in the Ásgarður tier in the All Things Iceland community on Patreon. Patrons in that tier get a shout out once a month on the podcast. That is just one of many benefits.

If you’re not familiar with Patreon, in short it is a membership platform that allows creators like me to provide exclusive content to listeners like you. Such as the behind the scenes video I shot of the work James is currently doing. To learn more and join the community, check it out here.

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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June 2020 marked the 4th year of me living in Iceland and the 2nd year anniversary of the podcast. I think that with all that is going on in the world right now, I found myself reflecting on how much has changed for the podcast and in my personal life since moving to Iceland in 2016. During this episode, I plan to share some of my favorite moments during interviews this year, some of the places in Iceland that have a special place in my heart, an update about the podcast and a big announcement.

Favorite Moments during interviews in 2020

Starting out with some of my favorite moments while out on interviews, one of the most memorable is when I met Kári Stefánsson, which is episode 50. Kári is the CEO and founder of deCode genetics, which is, in their words “ a global leader in analyzing and understanding the human genome. Using our unique expertise and population resources, deCODE has discovered key genetic risk factors for dozens of common diseases ranging from cardiovascular disease to cancer.”

Kári Stefánsson - Episode 50

Kári is known for being very direct and can come off as abrasive. I wouldn’t be surprised if people consider him to be a curmudgeon. I knew before meeting him that he is very opinionated and could potentially not be very nice. Regardless, I was willing to take that chance because he is a fascinating person who has accomplished some extraordinary things in his life. After arriving to deCode for the interview, I was given a pass to enter the parts of the building that are locked off to the general public. When I arrived at his office, he was in the middle of a meeting with one of his colleagues. They stopped talking when I entered and I immediately thought, “holy crap”, I just walked in on a meeting and he is going to think I am so rude. Thankfully that wasn’t the case.

However, a moment or so after he introduced me to his colleague, he said something to me that totally caught me off guard. Before our meeting, I had offered to send him the questions I intended to ask him. This has been requested by people in the past, so I thought it would be fine to offer that to be going forward in the event that they want to think a little bit about what they want to say beforehand.

Confrontation with Kári

Well, he flat out told me that it is a stupid idea to send questions to people before the interview because they will rehearse their answers and it would mess up the interview. I immediately said to him that it has worked out just fine so far. He quickly replied that I think it has been working out so far but I don’t really know. My rebuttal was that “Well, people keep listening to the podcast, so I must be doing something right.” At that he just stopped talking about it and said we should just get started. All of this was before I hit record. My first thought was damn, this is going to be a difficult interview and I might have to scrap it. While he did start out a bit stiff, I was able to crack a few jokes and he loosened up.

It ended up being a great interview and I was so grateful that it turned out well. After recording, we continued to talk about when he was living and working in Chicago. I was incredibly sweaty when I left that interview because I was constantly on guard. It might be strange that I find this to be one of my favorite moments but I think I find this one interesting because it was a challenge I had to overcome. Most of the people I interview are very different from Kári. I don’t often encounter personalities like him. It kind of felt like he was testing my boundaries and I held my own. I was proud of that. I was also happy to be able to connect with him and understand that he isn’t that difficult but he has some personality traits that can make it hard to connect with him.

Mike Dell - Episode 61

Another memorable episode for me was #61 with Mike Dell. He served on the NATO Base in Iceland during the 90s. Gaining insight into that time was so cool.

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I had the pleasure to speak with Kristín Loftsdóttir, a Professor of Anthropology at the University of Iceland. Her research has focused on migration, whiteness, gender, racism, Nordic exceptionalism, postcolonialism and crisis, basing on work in Iceland, Niger and Belgium.

Published Work by Kristín

Loftsdóttir is currently leading the project Creating Europe through Racialized Mobility (CERM) that received a grant from the Icelandic Center of Research and has actively participated in various other international collaborations and projects. Loftsdóttir’s most recent publication is the monograph Crisis and Coloniality at Europe’s Margins: Creating Exotic Iceland (Routledge, 2019).

Her co-edited books include Messy Europe: Crisis, Race and Nation State in a Postcolonial World (Berhahn, 2018) and Whiteness and Postcolonialism in the Nordic Region (Farnham: Ashgate, 2012). Loftsdóttir’s research has also been published in journals such as Ethnos, European Journal for Women’s Studies, Social Anthropology, and Identities and Social Identities.

How I found Kristín's work?

As I had mentioned in my last episode, I found one of Kristín’s publications via a Google search when I was trying to find out more about white supremacy in Iceland. After reaching out to Kristín about setting up an interview, she sent me some more of her published articles for me to read before we met.

I gobbled up these articles because I was learning so much about history in Iceland that I was completely unaware of. I wouldn’t be surprised if many Icelanders feel the same after listening to Kristín. During our talk we hit on a lot of different aspects of the concept of whiteness, Nordic Exceptionalism, and racism in Iceland. I learned a lot during this interview and I hope you do too.

Before you listen to our talk, I encourage you to go into this with an open mind and heart. Racism is a sensitive topic and it does make people uncomfortable. If you find that you are uncomfortable, let yourself sit with that and ask yourself why. It is not easy to explore those feelings but you might gain more insight about yourself if you do.

Questions I Asked Kristín Loftdóttir's About Racism, Whiteness & Nordic Exceptionalism in Iceland

Can you share a bit about your background and what made you interested in becoming an anthropologist?

What made you gravitate toward researching and writing about racism, the concept of witness and Nordic Exceptionalism in Iceland?

How has your work been received by Icelanders and those outside of Iceland?

In your publication titled, “The Exotic North: Gender, Nation Branding, and Postcolonialism in Iceland”, you write about how Iceland historically has taken a gendered approach to advertise the nation and has also tried to distinguish themselves from other former colonies. The words “exotic”, “authentic”, “pristine”, have been associated with Iceland, which plays on Can you talk a bit about the approach that has been taken?

I think one of the most interesting things I learned while reading your publications is about Icelanders pushing to be seen as part of the nations that are “masculine, white and civilized” and not associated with other former colonies that have been looked down on as savages and uncivilized. Can you talk about what role that played in Iceland’s fight for independence and what impact it might be having on how Icelanders today view themselves in comparison to other countries?

The book the “Ten Little Negro Boys”, which displays little Black boys who are drawn as racist caricatures and features them being brutally killed, was published in Iceland in 1922. When it was set to be republished in 2007, a hot debate erupted about whether it was racist or not. What were your thoughts about this situation as you saw how some Icelanders were defending it while some others were in agreement that it should not be republished?

As multiculturalism in Iceland increases,

Whiteness and Postcolonialism in the Nordic Region: Exceptionalism, Migrant Others and National Identities (Studies in Migration and Diaspora)

Crisis and Coloniality at Europe's Margins: Creating Exotic Iceland (Routledge Research in Race and Ethnicity)

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This week's episode is focused on giving you some insight into my experience as a Black American female expat in Iceland. Along with that, I share how Iceland has responded to the gruesome killing of George Floyd by a police officer in the United States. As one might expect, everything that is happening right now in the United States is deeply personal for me.

My Experience As A Black American Female

Whether I like it or not, how I am perceived in the world, starts off with my skin color. I have encountered various types of discrimination. Being the descendant of people that were first kidnapped and enslaved, then systematically oppressed is a burden that is hard to explain.

I often tell people that one of the unexpected positives of moving to Iceland is not feeling that weight of systemic racism. Yes, people in Iceland see my darker skin and sometimes stare a little longer than what is comfortable. However, the history of systemic racism toward Black people doesn’t exist in this country. It is not to say that there isn’t racism or white supremacy here. But it is vastly different from the overt, menacing racism in the United States. I don’t feel like having darker skin is automatically a strike against me here. I’ve been to many parts of the country and have met countless Icelanders who have been friendly, helpful and quite curious about my background.

https://youtu.be/SebHO0flQiY

Feeling Safe in Iceland

Is everyone’s experience with darker skin the same as mine here? Absolutely not. However, so many of the Black Americans who have moved to Iceland have one thing in common - we feel safe. We. Feel. Safe. Knowing this has allowed for me to blossom in ways that I can’t fully articulate. This podcast was started not just because I like this culture, history, language and nature, but also because of my interactions with Icelandic people.

My husband’s family, who are of course my family, welcomed me with open arms. Before coming to Iceland for my first visit, my mother and grandmother were afraid for me. In the United States, you can meet a White person that is kind to you, but their family might not be welcoming. In fact, they might even be downright racist. Both my mom and grandmother grew up in the Rochester, New York area. They learned the hard way that no matter how nice, well spoken and well dressed you are, some White people will hate you and let you know it. They didn’t want that for me.

My mother and grandmother assumed that in Iceland, a land full of White people, I would for sure experience racism overtly. While they were happy that this didn’t happen to me, they were still a bit skeptical until they experienced the country for themselves. My grandmother, who is now 90 years old, still talks about how amazing it was to come to our wedding in 2017 and meet Gunnar’s family and friends.

Feeling safe and allowing myself to blossom after moving here in 2016 has been a blessing and a curse for me.

Living in Iceland: A Mix of Guilt & Joy

When I’d see videos online of another Black person brutalized, I felt guilt for having the opportunity to live in a country where I am treated like a human being. Black and other People of Color in the United States are not afforded that basic right.

It is not unusual for me to feel scared for my family, friends and people I may never meet who live in the U.S., because they are constantly on guard. They are afraid of being the victim of police brutality, attacked by White supremacists or being treated differently when they are just trying to go about their lives.

I feel sadness knowing that for hundreds of years we have been fighting to have the right to be treated equally. Instead, we have constantly been met with hate and violence purely because our skin is darker.

I’ve cried more times than I can count throughout my life because of the cruelty that Black People have faced. I constantly have to suppress feelings like this just so I can get ...

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Lydia and Jonas are fellow U.S. expats in Iceland that host their own podcast called “The Raisin at the Hot Dog’s End”. Lydia is a writer and artist, and Jonas is a writer and translator. As you listen to the chat we had in my living room, you’ll get to hear the stories of how each of them ended up in Iceland. While we did talk about a variety of topics, I feel like the exchange we had about racism within the Icelandic society, which is more covert, is important and insightful.

It is amazing to me how much is bubbling to the surface here and all around the world after the murder of George Floyd. I plan to share my personal experience and thoughts about what is happening here in the next episode, but what Lydia and Jonas share shines a light on issues that deserve more attention in this country. If you are interested in listening to their podcast, check it out here and connect with them on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Questions I asked Lydia and Jonas:

Tell us about when each of you moved to Iceland and whyWhen you moved, was there anything about the culture that shocked you or just felt really unfamiliar?Have Icelanders been welcoming to you?Overall, how has it been adjusting to life here for you and your families?Is there anything you miss from the U.S.A?What inspired you to start your podcast “The Raisin at the hotdog’s end”?Obviously, a lot has been going on in the U.S., regarding the uprisings against systemic racism. How does it feel being an American here seeing this unfold in the U.S. and around the world?How do you feel about the gathering in Iceland to show solidarity with Black Americans?Do you feel at home here and that you want to stay in Iceland for the foreseeable future?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

If you are enjoying this podcast, you can show your support by leaving a 5-star review of it on Apple podcasts, Google podcasts, or any platform you listen to it on that allows reviews. Also, please share this episode with anyone that you think will find it helpful and/or interesting.

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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This week’s episode is an update that details how Iceland has successfully flattened the COVID-19 curve. On April 1st, I published a podcast episode that detailed the steps Iceland took after authorities found out about the virus in late December. I walked you through all of the restrictions put in place, but the timeline for those updates ended in mid-March. If you haven’t already, I recommend checking that out.

Keep Up With Icelandic News

This episode is a continuation of that timeline and will provide insight on what has been happening in the country up until present day. I am recording this on May 27th, so keep in mind that any major news regarding the virus that happened after that date will be shared on my Instagram account @allthingsiceland. In fact, I do a weekly round-up of the news each Sunday in my stories, so join me there to keep up on interesting news happening within the country. If you prefer Facebook, you can follow along there as well. Just look for All Things Iceland or click the link in my show notes to be taken directly to my page.

Not surprisingly, a lot has happened in Iceland from mid-March to May regarding COVID-19. I find it interesting to look back on it and share it with you. Hopefully, you find it interesting too.

I’ve set this up in chronological order, and will provide an overview starting from where I left off in my previous Coronavirus podcast episode. If you want to read any of the articles that I referenced as I did research for this episode, check out the show notes below.

Ok, let’s jump into it.

It was obvious that the cases of COVID-19 in Iceland were continuing to rise. Up until mid-March, travelers from all over were allowed to enter the country without going into quarantine. However, residents of Iceland coming from high risk countries, like China or Italy, were mandated to be in quarantine for 14-days. The argument behind this is that travelers don’t normally come into close contact with locals, so the risk of infection is low. I found that to be bizarre and didn’t agree with it because visitors would need to go to the same markets as residents, especially since restaurants had been shut down due to the ban on gatherings. Also, if a visitor were to fall ill, they would definitely come in contact with residents.

First COVID-19 Death in Iceland Was a Tourist

Well, on March 17th, an Australian man in his 30s (36 years old) died while visiting North Iceland. Even though his symptoms were not typical of a person with COVD-19, he tested positive for the virus and so did his wife. It was sad and unfortunate that this happened. One consequence was that twenty two people who worked at the Húsavík health clinic that came in contact with him, had to be put in quarantine. The clinic had to scale back its operations after this because of being short staffed. This was the first Coronavirus related death in the country. I think it is worth mentioning that the response from Icelanders was really sweet. A Facebook group was started to send condolences from Iceland to the widow of the Australian man.

Travel Ban to Iceland for Non-EEA & EFTA Citizens

Within a day or so, it was announced that the European Union (EU) was imposing a 30-day travel ban on non-essential travel on countries outside of its union and certain partner countries. This was done to control the spread of the virus. Even though Iceland is not a part of the EU, it is an EFTA country. EFTA stands for European Free Trade Association. EFTA citizens and residents of the UK were exempt from the non-essential travel ban. Initially, Iceland did not seem interested in taking part in the travel ban but they eventually took part in it.

What made the travel ban different in Iceland, as opposed to the EU’s ban, is that it included countries that were not part of EEA (European Economic Area) & EFTA. Basically, Iceland was still open to travelers from certain countries in Europe. On a personal note,

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I know this seems like a really random topic but I have been fascinated by this story ever since I learned about Björn Pétursson (Axlar-Björn) some months ago. The Iceland we know of today has been ranked as one the most peaceful countries in the world since the Global Peace Index was launched 13 years ago. However, this country definitely has had some gruesome murders in its past. Many of those murders were linked to disputes, such as those in some of the Sagas. Björn was an exception.

It is important to point out that even though Björn Pétursson was a real person that was a convicted serial killer, the many sources that recount his life and murders sometimes conflict. They are also considered to have some elements of folklore weaved in, so just keep that in mind as I go through this episode.

Warning about the content - not suitable for young children or those who feel uneasy hearing about the details of a gruesome murder.

Was Axlar-Björn Destined to be a Serial Killer?

While there are many reasons why a person might become a serial killer, it seems that Björn was destined to be so before he was even born. Björn's parents, Pétur and Sigríður, lived on the stunning Snæfellnes peninsula back in the 16th century. His father worked as a ploughman for a Ormur, a man who owned the farm Knörr. Pétur and Sigríður already had two children before Sigríður became pregnant with Björn. During her pregnancy, she had nightmares and craved the test of human blood.

I’ve never been pregnant but I think it is safe to assume that craving human blood is not normal. What is even more interesting about this story is that her husband Pétur wanted to appease his wife so he offered her to drink his blood to satisfy her craving. While that did do the trick, Sigríður was getting a very uneasy feeling. At some point she confessed to a female farmhand that she believes that the child she is carrying will be some kind of monster.

Björn was born in 1555 and he seemed like a pretty normal kid. At the age of four, his parents sent him to live with Ormur. Pétur and Ormur were good friends and because Ormur had a lot of money and influence, it seemed like a good opportunity for Björn to live with him. During those times it was common practice to have your child fostered by wealthier people because it can be difficult for a less fortunate family to feed and take care of all of their children. Björn adjusted to his new home and even became buddies with Guðmundur, Ormur’s son.

A Dream that Changed His Life Forever

It wasn’t until Björn was a teenager that the monster inside of him started to bubble to the surface. Like some teens, he developed a bad temper and was quite closed off. However, a turning point for him is when he missed mass one Sunday and fell asleep. During his dream, a man offered him a plate with pieces of raw meat. Without hesitation, he scarfed down the meat pieces. He only became nauseous after the eighteenth bite! This mysterious man in his dream then told him to go Mount Axlarhyrna because there Björn will find an instrument waiting for him. The man added that this instrument will serve him well in the years to come.

At his first opportunity, Björn went to the top of the mountain and there he found an ax. Not long after this, a young boy who worked as a farmhand at Knörr, the same farm in which Björn was born, disappeared. Years later, Björn confessed to killing the boy with the axe and burying him in a big pile of manure. Björn would go on to use the ax to kill many of his victims, who were mostly travellers or farmhands looking for work.

Protection from a Wealthy Friend

Ormur, the wealthy farmer, eventually passed away and left everything to his son Guðmundur. Guðmundur became even wealthier than his father and he decided to build Björn, who was pretty much his brother, a farm in an area called Öxl. Because the Icelandic language has four cases to decline words, the place Öxl,

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This week I am sharing the lovely chat I had with Mike Dell. He is a former U.S. Air Force officer that was stationed in Iceland during the 1990s. We talked about what it was like for him to live in Iceland as a military officer, how he was treated by Icelanders, what he enjoyed about the country and more. Similar to my last episode, I was connected with Mike in a rather unusual way.

I use the service Blubrry to host my podcast and when I made the switch from the url fromforeigntofamiliar.com to allthingsiceland.com, I had to reset up my podcast rss feed so that Apple Podcast, Google podcasts and all the rest of the places that play my show will get the new episodes that are being published on allthingsiceland.com.

Well, I ran into some issues doing it myself and I reached out to Blubrry for help. Dave and Mike, both work for Blubrry in their customer service department, were extremely helpful. While I was talking to Mike Dell via Zoom he asked me about my podcast. When I told him that I talked about Iceland he was delighted to share that he had lived in Iceland while he served in the Air Force. Of course, this totally piqued my interest. It was fascinating to hear what it was like for him to be in the country as a military officer and what he thought of Iceland.

Not Sponsored by Blubrry :-)

For the record, I am not sponsored by Blubrry and I happily pay fully for their services because they do a great job. If the show is ever sponsored by a company in the future, I will make that crystal clear. Lastly, the cool thing is that Mike is one of the hosts of Podcast Insider, which is Blubrry’s podcast and he interviewed me for their last episode. We talk about why I started the podcast, why I moved to Iceland, what equipment I use, which to be honest, I am a minimalist, but that is what works for me, and which of my own interviews I like the most. Here is a link to the Podcast Insider interview where I am featured.

Questions I asked Mike Dell during our Chat:

What was it like living in Iceland as part of the U.S. military?What was it like interacting with Icelanders? Were they friendly, hostile, reserved or a mix of all of those?When you did interact with Icelanders, did you notice any interesting habits that were unfamiliar to you?In a separate conversation, you mentioned that you like the Icelandic hotdog (pylsa). What about the hotdog appealed to you?Did you try any of the traditional Icelandic food?Did you travel to other parts of Iceland? Do you have a favorite place that you visited?Did you learn any Icelandic while you were here?What are your fondest memories of Iceland?

I hope you enjoyed listening to this episode of the All Things Iceland podcast. If so, please make sure to leave a review on whichever platform you are listening to this show on, and share it with someone who you think will find this episode interesting.

My newsletter is dedicated to sharing even more fascinating information about Iceland.

For your convenience and listening pleasure, this podcast is available on many platforms. You can listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, and pretty much any platform that plays podcasts.

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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I had the pleasure of sitting down with the awesome and very knowledgeable Icelandic herbalist Anna Rósa Róbertsdóttir.

She specializes in the use of Icelandic medicinal herbs and has been providing her services to people in Iceland for several decades. Before jumping into her interview, I have to mention the funny way in which Anna Rósa and I ended up becoming connected.

One day, I walked into an apótek in Iceland, called Jurtaapótek to buy some rosebud tea. As I was checking out, I saw a book about Icelandic herbs on the counter. The immediate thought that came into my head was, “Oh, I would love to interview the person that wrote this book for the podcast, because I find the topic of Icelandic herbs to be quite interesting.” So, I snapped a picture of the book, bought my tea and went about my day.

I think it was about a week or so later that Anna Rósa and I linked up. Maybe it was sheer coincidence or fate, but we both happen to have signed up for the same digital course and started messaging each other. Eventually, it dawned on me that she is the same person that wrote the book that I had snapped a picture of about a week prior. We both laughed at this and eventually we were able to set up an interview in her office. Anna Rósa was a delight to chat with and I love that her new skincare line was created to help empower refugees.

During the interview, Anna Rósa and I talk about a salad dressing recipe that changed her life. She wrote a blog post about it. You can check it out here.

Questions I asked Anna Rósa during the Interview:

What inspired you to be a herbalist?

Did you study to become a herbalist in Iceland or somewhere else?

How is the herbalist profession perceived in Iceland? Are people open to it, cautious about it or critical of it?

What kind of medicinal herbs can be found in Iceland? Are they wild?

How do you work with the herbs to create different mixes to help people with their ailments?

Your book “Icelandic herbs and their Medicinal Uses”, is like an encyclopedia of the many herbs in Iceland. Due to the herbs growing in Iceland, is the book mostly useful for people in Iceland or could it be used by those outside of the country?

Your new skincare line is unique in that the proceeds from it will be used to support organizations that help refugees. Can you talk a bit about that?

What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Connect with Anna Rósa on Social Media

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I hope you enjoyed listening to this episode of the All Things Iceland podcast. If you think someone else will find this episode interesting and/useful please share it. My newsletter is dedicated to sharing even more fascinating information about Iceland.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

Icelandic Herbs and Their Medicinal Uses

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After posting in the Away From Home: Living in Iceland Facebook group that I was looking to speak to expats in Iceland about a variety of topics, I received a decent amount of responses. One of those people included Sæþór Benjamín Randalsson.

Sæþór responded by writing the following comment, “I could talk about moving here as a gay man, or living through the 2008 crash, or the foster system, or the startup culture, or baking, or real estate.” I don’t know about you but all of those topics intrigued me, so I reached out.

Honestly, I didn’t think we would actually talk about all of those things but somehow everything just flowed so nicely that we did manage to talk about all of that and more. It didn’t even feel like I was interviewing him because I was laughing, learning and being entertained by his quick wit, welcoming energy and his passion for helping people. We ended up talking for almost two hours!

The Questions I Asked Sæþór During the Interview

Where are you from/grow up and why did you move to Iceland?
Was there anything that was strange or shocking to you when you moved here?
What has it been like living here as a gay man? Has it changed a lot since you moved?
You lived through the 2008 economic crash in Iceland, which was a really intense time. Can you talk a bit about what it was like before the crash in Iceland? How were you feeling when it finally settled in that the economy had crashed and that the current government was not able to handle the situation?
What was it like learning Icelandic?
You have a child through the foster care system here in Iceland. What is that process like?
What advice do you have for people that want to move to Iceland?
Do you feel Icelandic? Meaning, do you identify as being an Icelander even though you grew up somewhere else?
How do you feel about what is currently going on in the United States in regards to politics?
What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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It is a little hard to believe that it is almost the one year anniversary of the bankruptcy of Wow Air. This low cost Icelandic airline went bust on March 28th, 2019. On that date last year, everyone was shocked when the airline suddenly ceased to operate. During this episode, I will go over why and how the airline skyrocketed to success, what it was like during its heyday, what caused WOW Air to fail, how its bankruptcy affected the Icelandic economy, and what’s next.

Skúli Mogensen - The Founder of Wow Air

To me, the most logical place to start this story is with Skúli Mogensen, the founder of WOW Air.

Born to Icelandic parents, Skúli spent much of his youth in Sweden. His dad was studying to become a physician there. He is fluent in Swedish and Icelandic. Skúli moved back to Iceland and attended high school and some college years there. He didn’t finish college because his company Oz Communications, a mobile software company, took off, so he dropped out.

According to an interview in the Financial Post, Mogensen credits his entrepreneurial drive to his education at the University of Iceland. One of his philosophy professors encouraged him to challenge everything. He is quoting as saying in the article,

Challenge the status quo, challenge the dogma and challenge whatever worked yesterday. I think today the speed of things requires you to ultimately — maybe not always challenge, but at least ask questions about whether what you are doing today will actually work tomorrow.Skúli´s Philosophy Professor

Skúli Dropped Out of College to be an Entreprenuer

Skúli was able to grow OZ to over 200 employees. The company sold more than 100 million copies of its messaging software to major mobile operators. Nokia ended up buying OZ communications in 2008 for an undisclosed amount. Along with starting OZ, Skúli also co-founded Íslandssimi, which is now Vodafone Iceland. Additionally, he co-founded CAOZ, a 3-D animation studio that works on production for films, commercials and games. His serial entrepreneurship made him a billionaire. After selling OZ communications, Skúli went into early retirement at the age of 40. However, he quickly grew tired of it after a couple of years.

According to a Forbes article about Skúl in 2018, he said “I was a failure at retirement. I wanted to use technology to disrupt the market and the airline industry is a good sector for that.”

WOW Air was Born in 2011

Skúli was ready to go full force into starting an airline with his own money. His family, friends and investors urged him not to do it back in 2011. One thing to remember about this time is that Eyjafjallajökull volcano had erupted in 2010.

Even though the ash from the eruption had disrupted air travel for people around the world, the media focus on Iceland had exposed to the world that the country was home to some of the most spectacular nature. Icelandic tourism was starting to increase around that time. However, Skúli’s idea of starting a low budget airline helped skyrocket Icelandic tourism into being one of the main industry to revive Iceland after the economic crash.

Cheap Airfare Helped to Fuel Tourism to Iceland

The trans-Atlantic low cost airline started off with fares starting from $99 for basic seats and service. You could fly from some cities in the U.S. to Iceland and the rest of Europe. Those fares, along with the value of Icelandic krona being so low, made traveling to and in the country affordable for many people who wouldn’t otherwise have come here.

Within its first year, the airline transported 110,000 passengers. That number quadrupled just five years later. It’s incredible that in 2017 it had been reported that 2.8 million passengers had flown with WOW Air. I moved to Iceland in the summer of 2016. I remember thinking that it must be so cool to work for that airline. They had such great advertisements, happy looking staff and it seemed like their growth would not stop ...

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A few days ago I posted on the All Things Iceland Instagram and Facebook pages that I do plan to give a rundown of how the Coronavirus is spreading in Iceland and what the government has been doing to control it. I do not plan to give updates every few days about the virus.

I think it is important to talk about it. However, I mainly created All Things Iceland to share about Icelandic culture, history, language and nature. Not to just focus on one topic. Also, I think it is nice to be able to escape the news for a while and hear about Iceland.

Like many others, I am closely monitoring what is going on with the virus where I live. I want to do as much as I can to stay safe. I still do my weekly news round-up in my Instagram stories each Sunday. You can check that out if you want to hear about what happened in Iceland the week before.

As I thought about how to format this particular episode, it dawned on me that it might be helpful to give you a bit of backstory regarding when Icelandic officials made it public that they were starting to prepare for the virus coming to the country. Also, I am going to speak a little about how deeply this affects the Icelandic economy, especially the tourism industry.

When Did Iceland Start to Prepare for the Coronavirus?

To start off, Iceland did take note when the World Health Organization’s (or the WHO) China office started sharing reports of the virus spreading in the Eastern Chinese city Wuhan in late December and into January. Of course no one knew it would spread so quickly around the world. In late January, Iceland started to prepare for it possibly coming our way.

According to Iceland Monitor, on January 27th, Þórarinn Guðnason, the Chief Epidemiologist in Iceland, recommended that Icelanders should,

Cancel any unnecessary trips to areas in China affected by the coronavirus, known to cause pneumonia, coughs, fever and breathing difficulties. This applies in particular to the Hubei province.Þórarinn Guðnason, the Chief Epidemiologist in Iceland

He was also said “health care officials in Iceland are preparing for the possible spread of the virus to Iceland. “That is our approach - that this will arrive in Iceland… We try to prepare as well as possible. We prepare for the worst, hoping it won’t happen. But we assume it will arrive here.”

Chinese Tourism Was on the Rise in Iceland

One thing many people who live outside of Iceland may not be aware of is that Chinese tourism in the country has been on the rise over the last couple of years. Some of the tourists are groups coming directly from China and others are people who were born in China but are studying or working abroad in different places, such as in Europe.

I have worked in tourism Iceland for about four years, from 2016 to present day and it was clear that even though U.S. visitors were still the highest number of tourists that it was evident that numbers were declining fast. Chinese tourists were starting to increase rapidly, especially during the Chinese New Year.

According to an article published in January of this year, Iceland was expecting no less than 130,000 Chinese tourists, which would have been more than the number of Germans expected to visit, and Germans are the third numerous group behind the United States and the United Kingdom. 130,000 might not seem like a lot when you think about the fact that almost two million people visited Iceland in 2019.

However, the potential for more Chinese tourists was growing exponentially. I reported in my weekly news round-up on Instagram back in November that a Chinese airline Juneyao was going to start offering direct flight service from Shanghai to Keflavík airport in March. Of course that is not happening now but that should at least give you an idea that ties between Iceland and China were strengthening.

The tourism industry in Iceland is very competitive and all of the companies are fighting for market share.

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I had the pleasure of interviewing Gísli Pálsson for this episode of the podcast in his office at the University of Iceland. He recently retired, but he has served as a professor and Director of Institute of Anthropology at the university. He has written several books, including “The Man Who Stole Himself”, the story about Hans Jónatan, who was the first black citizen of Iceland.

To get a good overview of that story you can check out the video below that I recently published about Hans Jónatan on YouTube.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40chlDBLKwU&t=1s

To stay up to date on what I am sharing, like new podcast episodes, videos, articles and more, sign up for the All Things Iceland newsletter.

During our chat, we talk about many different topics. It was fascinating to talk with him and below are some of the topics we discussed.

The Questions I Asked Gísli Pálsson During The Interview

You were born in the Westman Islands. Were you there during the eruption of Eldfell in 1973?
What made you interested in studying anthropology?
When did you find out about he story of Hans Jonatan and why did you decided to write a book about him?
When you were researching for the book, did you find anything surprising or unusual?
Another one of your books, “Writing on Ice: The Ethnographic Notebooks of Vilhjalmur Stefansson – an arctic explorer and pioneering anthropologist, is quite fascinating and a bit heartbreaking. How did you uncover the story of about his secret family?
After the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull, you started a project called the Volcanologues. Can you explain a little bit about that project and why you did it?
Through you research and/collaboration with others, have you discovered other fascinating stories or information about Icelanders?
How do you choose what you want to research and write about?
What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Some of the Books Mentioned During the Episode

The Man Who Stole HimselfTravelling Passions: Stefansson, the Arctic Explorer Writing on IceOn Time & Water

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

Travelling Passions: Stefansson, the Arctic Explorer

The Man Who Stole Himself: The Slave Odyssey of Hans Jonathan

Writing on Ice: The Ethnographic Notebooks of Vilhjalmur Stefansson

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Icelandic sheep are a mix of adorable and fascinating. During the summer, you can find them roaming freely around the country. For months they are on what seems like the ultimate Icelandic summer vacation - eating, sleeping, and walking wherever they please. Before winter sets in, they are rounded up by the farmers that own them so they can be sheltered from the harsh Icelandic weather.

Regardless of the season, the Icelandic sheep farmer is always at work. If you are interested in hearing a first-hand account of what life on an Icelandic sheep farm is like, I recommend checking out my interview with Pálína Axelsdóttir Njarðvík, creator of the popular Instagram account (@farmlifeiceland). Her account showcases what life on an Icelandic sheep farm life is like from her perspective.

Contents

Quick facts about Sheep in IcelandIcelandic sheep history & heritageWhen is the lambing season in Iceland?What is Réttir?Sheep farms to visit or stay on in IcelandMeat Production of Icelandic sheepWool Production from sheep in IcelandHow to buy an authentic Icelandic sweater?Does Iceland have more sheep than people?

Quick Facts About Sheep in Iceland

There are more sheep in Iceland than the number of people that live hereThe color of their fleece can be white or a range of browns, grays, and blacksMultiple births, such as twins, triplets or more, are very common in this breed because of a gene called Þoka that many Icelandic ewes possessNorwegian Spelsau and Icelandic sheep descend from the same stockSheep in Iceland have been bred in isolation for more than a thousand yearsMeat production is the main reason for raising sheep in IcelandSheep milk was once more widely consumed than cow milk in Iceland

Sheep in Iceland have played an important role in the way of life in the country since the first settlers came to Iceland back in the 9th and 10th centuries. I was surprised to learn so many fascinating facts about them after talking to Pálína and doing some research.

Icelandic Sheep History & Heritage

They are classified as Northern short-tailed sheep and are the largest in their group, which includes Finn, Romanov, Shetland, Spelsau and Swedish Landrac. As mentioned in the quick facts above, the Icelandic sheep descends from the same breed as the Norwegian Spelsau.

While it is the case that sheep in Iceland today are pure breeds, at one time farmers did try crossbreeding with foreign breeds. However, those experiments ended because the cross breeding brought on disease. Eventually, all of the sheep that the result of cross breeding were killed, or what is known as culled. Culling is defined as reducing the population of an animal by selective slaughter.

Iceland is notorious for its harsh weather and over the centuries there have been many challenging times for livestock and their farmers. Due to being bred in isolation for more than a thousand years, the Icelandic sheep has been able to thrive in these conditions. Because of that, they are considered to be efficient herbivores.

While sheep are mostly bred for meat in Iceland now, they have contributed to Icelandic society in a variety of ways over the years. Up until the 1940’s, they were the predominant milk producing animal in the country. It was far more expensive to have a cow before that time, so people consumed sheep’s milk instead.

When is the Lambing Season in Iceland?

Lambing season in Iceland starts in May and lasts for about five weeks. During this month, farmers are working around the clock to monitor and assist the ewes (female sheep) who are birthing the cute lambs. Due to a gene that is named Þoka, pregnant Icelandic female sheep often give birth to multiple lambs at once. They can give birth to twins, triplets, quadruplets, quintuplets, and even sextuplets! It is quite amazing to think of that many lambs being born at once.

It isn’t always that the ewes need help with birthing their lambs but it happens often e...

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To get a better understanding of the Icelandic education system, I sat down with Arnór Guðmundsson for this episode of the All Things Iceland podcast. In his role as the Director of the Directorate of Education, his agency focuses on testing and producing textbooks for schools in Iceland. We discussed many things. Some of them include the different levels of education in Iceland, how the Icelandic education system compares with other countries, and some challenges the Directorate is facing.

The continued decrease in literacy among Icelandic teenage boys and how the survival of the Icelandic language is threatened by English are topics most people are not aware of who live outside of the country. Arnór was helpful in giving an overview of the system. I have also included answers to frequently asked questions regarding the Icelandic education system, which are not in the podcast interview.

Photo by Evelyn Paris

Contents

Arnór's interview questions

What is the history of the education system in Iceland?

What are the levels in the Icelandic education system?

Do you need to know Icelandic to study in Iceland?

How many universities does Iceland have?

Are there private schools in Iceland?

Is education free in Iceland for international students?

Questions I asked Arnór during the interview:

What made you interested in working in the Directorate of Education in Iceland?How is the education system in Iceland setup? What are the different levels?I assume that technology is used quite a bit in schools here. I am just wondering how it is used in the different education levels. Is it used early on or does the introduction of technology start at a later education level?Is it important to promote and foster creativity in schools in Iceland? What is the difference in the standard of education between public schools vs private schools in Iceland?How does the education system in Iceland compare with other Nordic countries?When a child that doesn’t speak or understand Icelandic enters the education system, is there a process for helping them to learn the language?What are some challenges regarding the education system that the Directorate of Education is trying to tackle?I read a recent article about the reading comprehension being much poorer in Iceland than in other countries. Basically, the amount of students that did not achieve basic reading comprehension standards increased quite a bit. What do you think are some of the reasons why reading comprehensions skills among some students has deteriorated?Is there any concern about how much English is being used among teenagers in Iceland?You studied at the University of Minnesota back in the 90’s. Do you feel that your education in Iceland back then had prepared you for studying in the U.S.? Please share your impression of the education system in the United States on a university levelWhat is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

What is the history of the education system in Iceland?

Photo by Zak Boca

One of the oldest educational institutions in Iceland, Menntaskólin í Reykjavík, can be traced back to 1056! For centuries, education in Iceland has been of great importance. However, the first national education law wasn’t passed until 1907. Later, the Compulsory Education Act of 1974 modernized the Icelandic education system. It included a mandate for providing special education services to all students with disabilities.

Three former schools, Prestaskólinn, Læknaskólinn and Lagaskólinn, were combined to create the University of Iceland in 1911. The schools individually taught theology, medicine and law. Naturally, the professors in the early days of the university only taught those classes for those specific fields. Over time, the fields and expertise of the faculty have diversified. This university is the country’s oldest and largest institution for higher education.

Governing Agency for Icelandic Education

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When people think of Iceland, they have images of beautiful landscapes, sheep, the northern lights, and glaciers. Many are unaware of the scandals, corruption, and overall fascinating events show up in Iceland news stories throughout the year.

If you have listened to previous episodes of this show, such as the interviews with Dóra, the former President of the City Council, Alda Sigmundsdóttir, Kári Stefánsson, Andie Fontaine, Jón Gnarr, and Andri Snær Magnasson, you will have heard about some of the corruption and drama in Iceland.

I love that those episodes provide insight from the point of view of people who live in Iceland. This list is meant to be a round-up based on how Iceland news was reported by news outlets. Of course, I sprinkle in my opinion every so often. Some of the Iceland news stories on this top ten list have made international headlines. However, plenty of them only appeared in the domestic news headlines.

Easily Keep Up with Iceland News Stories

After I started doing a weekly news round-up in my Instagram stories (@allthingsiceland) each Sunday last year, I became even more intrigued with the news here. I feel that the news in any country gives you some insight into the culture and can help you to understand what that society considers important to talk about. Iceland is certainly no different. It became apparent to me that Iceland news stories have given me another great way to tap into what is trending here and to observe how the culture is changing.

If you like hearing about Iceland news stories, I highly recommend checking out my weekly round-up on Instagram. Along with sharing the news, I give you a bit of my opinion on the story and try to make it interactive.

Another option is to sign up for my free email newsletter. It features a mix of Iceland news stories, facts about the country, videos, upcoming events, tips for travelers, and other goodies. I recently decided to start this newsletter because there is so much awesome content out there. I think email is a great way of sharing it with my fellow Icelandophiles.

To read more about each story that I talk about in this episode, I have included links to the original news articles. Feel free to check those out.

Now, let’s jump into the 2019 Iceland news top ten list!

Ed Sheeran’s Concert Broke A Record in Iceland

Icelanders like to play it cool if they see a celebrity walk down the street in Reykjavík. However, they seem to go bananas when a big named performer holds a concert. This is exactly what happened when it was announced that Ed Sheeran would be holding a concert during the summer of 2019.

To my surprise, Icelanders were rushing to buy tickets. Like most people in the world, I know some Ed Sheeran songs, but I can’t say that I am very familiar with the majority of his music. I have a feeling that is the case for many Icelandic people. I guess the buzz around this concert was too enticing for many to pass up. Plus, Ed Sheeran is considered a “friend of Iceland ''. He has this honorary title because he wore an Icelandic national football shirt when Iceland played against Croatia in the 2018 World Cup.

Some of my Icelandic friends admitted that they were only going to the concert because so many others in the country will be there.

Photo by Icelandair

A New Icelandic Record for Concert Attendance

The concert ended up breaking a record, which made Iceland news headlines. The first concert date, Saturday August 10th, sold out almost instantly. Sena Live, the event management company putting on the concert, added a second concert day, August 11th, because of the demand. In total, about 50,000 people in Iceland attended an Ed Sheeran concert. That is about 14% of the population. On the first night alone, 30,000 people attended. This is the first time in the recorded history of Iceland that 30,0000 attended a concert in the country. Granted,

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The Icelandic sheep farm is pretty much as old as the country because the first settlers from Norway in the 9th and 10 centuries brought sheep with them. As a native New Yorker that was completely disconnected from raw nature, such as the kind found in Iceland, I find it fascinating and difficult to imagine what it would be like to grow up and work on a farm.

When I came across Pálína’s Instagram account (@farmlifeiceland), I just knew that I had to interview her for the All Things Iceland podcast.

We talked about a variety of things regarding this way of life. Her perspective on life on a sheep farm in Iceland is what is most intriguing.

What I especially love is that she has a unique bond with some of the sheep on the farm. On her account, she documents her relationship with them. It is touching and delightful to see her interact with them so closely. If you have ever tried to interact with an Icelandic sheep, you are probably aware that they normally keep their distance from humans.

Along with showing the fun side of working and living on a sheep farm, Pálina also shows the challenging parts. Her feelings about the lamb slaughtering season is one that really stuck out to me. It was interesting to hear her talk about that in the interview.

I hope you enjoy listening to this interview just as much as I enjoyed conducting it. If you are on Instagram, I recommend checking out @FarmLifeIceland.

Questions I Asked Pálína About Life on an Icelandic Sheep Farm

What was it like growing up on an Icelandic sheep farm?Why did you decide to start an Instagram account about life on a sheep farm?During a previous episode, the lambing season was brought up, what's it like during that time of the year?What is something about farm life in Iceland that would shock people who are unfamiliar with that lifetstyle?You show a lot of pictures of Sunna and Brynja, two sheep on the farm. What is your relationship with them?Have you observed any strange habits of sheep on your family's farm?I emotionally connected to one of your Instagram posts, which talks about the most horrible time of the year for you. It happens right after Réttir. What happens during that time and why do you dislike it?Have you encountered any challenges navigating between city and farm life?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me:

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I hope you enjoyed listening to this interview. Make sure you are subscribed to the All Things Iceland podcast so you don’t miss new episodes. If the platform you are listening to this podcast on allows you to leave a review, please do so, if you haven’t already.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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I had the pleasure of chatting with Eunsan Huh, the awesome creator of the popular Instagram account, @EverySingleWordinIcelandic. On her account, you will find Icelandic words that she has illustrated as icons, which is helping her and others to learn the language.

She has also created a book called "Iceland in Icons: a Pictographic Travel Guide", which I will have a link to in the show notes of this episode. It was so much fun to chat with her about how she fell in love with Iceland, why she started to learn the language and some of the adventures she has been on around the country.

The Questions I Asked Eunsan During the Interview

You have a very interesting background. You were born in Korea, raised in Australia and Canada and now you have been living in NYC for more than a decade. After being exposed to so many different cultures, what made you gravitate toward Iceland?When did you decide to start learning Icelandic? What resources are you using to learn Icelandic and what has your experience been like?What inspired you to start creating icons for Icelandic words?You have a book called “Iceland in Icons: A Pictographic Travel Guide”. Obviously, the use of icons to represent places and words in Icelandic make it unique, but what else makes your book different than other travel guides? How many times have you visited Iceland? Do you see yourself living here?I saw on your Instagram that you have stayed and worked on a farm while in Iceland. What was that experience like? Do you recommend that to others?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?You will be speaking at Tedx Reykjavík tomorrow (October 13), which is awesome! If people want to keep up with what you are doing, where should they follow you?

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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For episode fifty of the All Things Iceland podcast, I interviewed Kári Stefánsson, an Icelandic neurologist who is also the founder and CEO of deCode genetics. deCode is a biopharmaceutical company based in Reykjavík. Kári pioneered the use of,

“population scale genetics to understand variation in the sequence of the human genome.”WIkipedia

The discoveries from using this approach have helped with developing new drugs. Additionally, the discoveries have helped scientists to better understand cardiovascular disease, cancer, and schizophrenia, just to name a few. Additionally, the population scale approach has served as a model for other national genome projects around the world.

Kári's Background

Before founding deCode, Kári Stefánsson served as a professor of Neurology at the University of Chicago. Later, he became the Chief of the neuropathology division at Harvard University. Since the founding of deCode, Kári has received many accolades.

While I was curious to hear about his work, we spoke about his views on certain topics in Icelandic society. We also spoke about what he thought of Americans after living in the U.S. for more than 20 years, and, of course, his favorite Icelandic word or phrase. Kári shared his views on climate change, Donald Trump, and many other topics.

The Video of Kári Receiving the William Allan Award in 2017

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EayPjFhNnw4

The Questions I Asked Kári Stefánsson

What sparked your interest in studying genetics?

Why did you start deCode Genetics and why did you choose to do it in Iceland?

Throughout all of the years that you have been working on decoding human genetics, what finding(s) are you most proud of?

Can you share why you chose to recreate the genome of the first Black man in Iceland. First, were some of the Icelanders surprised to find out that they are descendants of a black man? Second, can you provide some insight into why Iceland provides a unique environment to do this type of genome sequencing?

Over the years you have been very vocal in the news about different issues in Iceland. Do you think that because of your status as a highly respected scientist, that it is your responsibility to share your views on these matters or is it mostly from the point of view of a concerned citizen?

In 2016, you announced that you could identify everyone in Iceland that had a high risk of getting cancer. You wanted to work with healthcare specialists to reach out to those people to alert them of the potential danger. However, there was push back. Even though, people had consented to having their genes analyzed, they had not consented to being alerted about possible health risks found in their genes. Has this situation changed at all? Meaning, have any laws changed to make this possible and/or has your opinion changed about contacting people?

You mentioned to me that you live in the United States for over 20 years studying its natives. Did you find out anything fascinating and/or strange about us?

What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

I hope you enjoyed this interview with Kári Stefánsson.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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Hallveig has won the Classical Singer of the year at the Icelandic Music awards twice and has been nominated three more times. Additionally, she has twice won the Singer of the Year for the Gríman, which is the Theatre awards in Iceland.

Funny enough, I was introduced to Hallveig by her husband Jón after he reached out to me about to being interviewed in the Stuck in Iceland magazine, which they both run. I found it so fascinating to speak with Hallveig about classical music in Iceland.

The Questions I Asked Hallveig During the Interview:

What sparked your interest in studying and singing classical music?Who were your favorite artists to listen to while growing up in Iceland?What is the opera and classical music scene like in Iceland? Do you find that there are a lot of people who enjoy that genre of music and are younger generations interested in becoming classical singers?What do you feel is the most challenging part of being a classical artist in Iceland?You have premiered new Icelandic works over the years. What inspires you to make new music?What singers or composers do you recommend people listen to if they are interested in hearing classical music from Iceland?You have won Singer of the Year in classical and contemporary music at the Icelandic Music Awards several times and you have performed many solo concerts around the world. Where should people look if they want information on where you will perform next?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Hallveig's music on Spotify

The Composers & Singers Hallveig Mentioned in the Interview:

Anna ÞorvaldsdóttirHildur GuðnadóttirHugi GuðmundssonDaníel BjarnssonHildigunnur RúnarsdóttirAtli Heimir SveinssonÞorkell SigurbjörnssonElmar GilbertssonOddur Arnþór JónssonÁgúst ÓlafssonAndri Björn RóbertssonHerdís Anna JónsdóttirHildigunnur EinarsdóttirHanna Dóra SturludóttirBjarni Thor KristinssonJón Svavar Jósefsson

Connect with Hallveig

Facebook

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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Today is a very special episode because in June of 2018, I launched the All Things Iceland podcast. A full year later, there are 47 episodes (48 if you include this one) and more than 60,000 downloads. I am incredibly grateful for all of the people that have listened to this podcast and for those who do so in the future. I thought it would be fun to do something a little different for this special occasion.

Send In Your Questions For The Podcast

I plan to publish an episode that is dedicated to answering your questions about Iceland. I will do my best to answer as many as I can.

Send in your questions to jewells@fromforeigntofamiliar.com

Why, How, and When I Started the Podcast

To celebrate the one year anniversary of the All Things Iceland podcast, I dive into what sparked my interest in starting the show and how I went about launching it.

This has certainly been an adventure figuring out the world of podcasting and I look forward to continuously evolving.

All Things Iceland Podcast Announcements

The publication schedule is changing. I will release two episodes a month rather than four a month.

I am working on launching a new website and rolling out a new url.

Random fact of the episode

Some of you that follow my on Instagram might know where I record my episodes when I am doing them alone. For all of you that don’t, you might find kind of amusing that I record in my closet in my bedroom.

Currently, the microphone that I use for when I am alone and when I interview people is the same. However, the location makes a huge difference in the sound quality. Because sound waves from my recordings are absorbed by my clothes, I end up with a cleaner sound. One day it would be awesome to build a home studio or at least have a space other than my closet to record. Until then, I am happy with the closet.

Icelandic Word of the Day

Til hamingju - congratulations

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After most visitors to Iceland arrive at Keflavik international airport, they quickly grab their bags and set their sights on traveling to downtown Reykjavík. Unfortunately, the don't give any thought to visiting the rest of the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Little do they know that a beautiful, less crowded and completely underrated place waits just outside of the airport. I was delighted when I found out that this peninsula had been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark in 2015.

I have been fortunate to travel to this area on several occasions. When there, I am always pleasantly surprised by how amazing and diverse the landscape is. While I don’t want this peninsula to become overcrowded with visitors, I do think it is a shame that more people do not explore this place. It is literally brimming with geothermal activity, mud pools and lava fields. It is also home to so many hiking trails and fascinating Icelandic history.

Most notably, it is one of the best places to see the separation of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. After learning more about this place, I decided it was worth it to dedicate this episode to the Reykjanes Peninsula.

The Unique Geology of the Reykjanes Peninsula

During one of my visits to the area I found the geology to be quite interesting. After looking up how the area was formed, I found the following quote from Visit Reykjanes brochure. Just a heads up, there is some science lingo in the quote but I still think it is worth sharing,

“Reykjanes Peninsula is an important region from a geological standpoint. It is a geologically young section of Iceland and is a land born and highly volcanic counterpart of the North Atlantic Ridge where the tectonic plates diverge at an average rate of 2.5 cm/ yr. The peninsula contains late Quaternary volcanic palagonite tuff and pillow lava formations as fells and mountains from the last glacial periods. Widespread basaltic lava flows and volcanic structures from interglacial periods, especially from the last 11,500 years (the Holocene Era) characterise the area. Four elongated volcanic systems and fissure swarms line the peninsula from SW to NE. They contain open fissures, normal faults, high temperature geothermal fields and numerous volcanic fissures that are lined with monogenetic craters.”

Whether you care about the science behind how this area was formed or not, the beauty and the uniqueness of the landscape can’t be denied.

Where is the Reykjanes Peninsula & How to Get There

Before jumping into what to see and do in this part of south Iceland, I think it is important to go over where it is and how to get there. As I mentioned in the beginning, this peninsula is in the south of the country, specifically the south-west.

The towns and villages that make up the Reykjanes Peninsula include Suðurnesjabær, Grindavík, Vogar, and Reykjanesbær. If it is relatively clear when you are flying into Iceland, you can get a glimpse of the stark black sand beaches along the coastline and the jagged lava rock that dominates this part of the country.

By car, it is very easy to drive around the peninsula. Whether you rent a car on your own or take a tour. However, the real fun begins when you get out of the car and explore on foot.

Different Towns on Reykjanes Peninsula

Each of the towns of the peninsula that I mentioned above have unique features that attract visitors. For instance, Reykjanesbær, which is the municipality that is home to Keflavik international airport is made up of three districts: Keflavík, Hafnir and Njarvík. With a population of a little over 15,000 people, it is the largest town on the peninsula. There you will find different types of accommodations, stores, bars and museums.

Suðurnesjabær

Suðurnesjabær is a fairly new municipality in Iceland. In 2018, it was created by merging Garður and Sandgerði and it has a population of about 3,000 people.

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Ásatrú, an Old Norse paganism, has become the fastest growing non-Christian religion in Iceland. When most people think of this country, religion is not normally what pops into their minds. However, over 75% of the Icelandic population are registered as members of a religious organization.

Later, in the random fact of the episode, I share the number of Icelanders belonging to the top five religious organizations in the country.

When & Why Was Ásatrú Founded

Paganism was once the norm in Iceland. In fact, the majority of the settlers that came to Iceland in the 900s were members of Ásatrú. However, the spread of Christianity drastically diminished its members and Christianity became the official religion of the country in the year 1000. While the Alþingi declared that Christianity would be the only religion in Iceland, people were still allowed to practice the old religion, just as long as they did it in secret.

The re-recognition of Ásatrú in Iceland came about in 1973 and the journey to that recognition is quite fascinating. Four men named Sveinbjörn Beinteinsson, Jörmundur Ingi Hansen, Dagur Þorleifsson and Þorsteinn Guðjónsson met in a cafe in Reykjavík during winter in 1972. That is when they came up with the idea to found a folk religion. It is believed that the start of this religion was due in part to the counter cultural and religious sentiments at the time. Additionally, nationalism, and interest in spiritism and elves created a near perfect environment for the resurgence of Ásatrú.

Sveinbjörn Beinteinsson, who later became the first high priest of the re-emerged Ásatrú, believed that the religion was based on a belief of hidden forces in the land. He also felt that Icelanders had a desire to have their own religion and that they should support it just as much as they do imported religions. Ásatrú, in many ways, was a movement back to nature in a time where the negative effects of being an industrialized civilization were rearing their ugly head.

Sveinbjörn Beinteinsson

The Road to Recognition

To gain recognition of Ásatrú as an official religion in Iceland, Sveinbjörn Beinteinsson and Þorsteinn Guðjónsson met with Ólafur Jóhannesson, the minister of justice and ecclesiastical affairs, in Iceland, right before Christmas in 1972. At first, the minister thought they were joking but once he realized that they weren’t, he requested more paperwork. A funny occurrence that goes along with this story is that when Sveinbjörn and Þorsteinn left the minister, a thunderstorm caused the lights in the center of Reykjavík to go out. According to an article in Vísir at that time, the paper joked that Þór, the God of Thunder, was showing his dissatisfaction with the vague answers that Sveinbjörn and Þorsteinn had received.

The most notable opposition to the re-recognition of the religion came from the Bishop of Iceland, Sigurbjörn Einarsson. He went on to publish his opinion in Morgunblaðið, which pointed out that the Icelandic constitution did grant everyone the right to “found organizations to serve god but that this assumed a monotheistic outlook.” The Bishop also criticized the organization for having vague teachings and no house of worship.

He took his criticism even further by trying to connect the Ásatrú to the racial ideology of Nazi Germany and the re-emergence in the belief of German folklore during that time. The Bishop was essentially calling into question the moral teachings of the organization. Lastly, he felt that since there were only 21 people seeking recognition, they were quite small. Morgunblaðið, the country's biggest newspaper agreed with him and put out a very bold statement. They stated that Christianity was the “basis of Icelandic society” and that “Christ is enough, though he was not enough for Hitler, Stalin or their followers".

Fighting for the Right For Ásatrú to Be Recognized

The members of Ásatrú replied to the bishop’s criticism by saying that Christianity...

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Hélène Magnússon is a very talented and passionate knitter living and working in Iceland. She is well known in the knitting world as the Icelandic knitter. While she originally hails from France, Iceland has been her home for over 25 years. We had a lively conversation that touched on why she moved to Iceland, her experience learning Icelandic, how she became interested in traditional Icelandic knitting patterns, and so much more.

The Questions I Asked Hélène During the Interview:

You were raised in France and practiced law there. What prompted you to leave Paris and your job as a lawyer to move to Iceland?In your bio, you mention that you learned Icelandic by working on a sheep farm. How long did it take you to learn the language and was it difficult to just jump right into full immersion?When did you first become interested in knitting and why did you choose to knit traditional Icelandic patterns?When you were researching traditional Icelandic patterns, was there anything surprising or fascinating that you found?What is your favorite traditional Icelandic knitting pattern?What inspired you to start providing mountain hiking and trekking trips that including knitting?Where is your favorite place (or places) to knit in Icelandic nature?If a person wanted to get started with knitting Icelandic patterns, which one would you recommend?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Connect with Hélène

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I hope you enjoyed listening to this interview. I release a new podcast episode every week. Make sure you are subscribed to the All Things Iceland podcast so you don’t miss new episodes. If the platform you are listening to this podcast on allows you to leave a review, please do so, if you haven’t already.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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During this part of the interview, Andri provides some great insight into the current literature landscape in Iceland and the impact of literature from this country on the world. We start off this interview talking about Reykjavík being a UNESCO City of Literature. Andri is a great person to talk about this because he is the chairman of the board for the Reykjavík UNESCO City of Literature.

Andri also shares he favorite pieces of Icelandic literature, his environmental advocacy work, his run for Presidency and, of course, his favorite Icelandic word or phrase. If you have not listened to part one, I highly recommend that you do so that you learn more about Andri.

Some of the people the Icelandic authors that Andri recommend are Halldór Laxness, Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir, Sjón, Krístin Omarsdóttir and Neil Gaiman. He also recommended reading Njáls Saga and the Poetic Edda.

The Questions I Asked Andri During This Episode

Reykjavík has been designated as a UNESCO City of Literature, and it is the first non-native English-speaking city to receive this title. Why is it that Reykjavík received this prestigious title?
What makes the literary culture in Iceland is so strong?
Can you provide some insight on the current literature landscape in Iceland? Are Icelanders still eager to publish and read Icelandic literature, especially in this age of social media and other technological distractions?
What are some places in the city that you recommend for people to check out if they are visiting, or live here, and want to learn more about Iceland’s rich literary history?
If a person wants to dive into Icelandic literature, where do you recommend that they start?
What are your favorite pieces of Icelandic literature?
Your book Dreamland: A Self-Help Manual for a Frightened Nation was the best-selling book in Iceland in 2006 and won numerous awards. It helped to raise Icelander’s interest in environmentalism in the country, specifically about the impact foreign aluminum smelting plants would have on Icelandic nature. Do you think that Icelandic writers today still have the ability to influence the nation in a way that you did with this book?
This is slightly off topic, but I think is a fascinating bit of information for the listeners of this podcast to know. You ran for Presidential office in Iceland in 2016. What motivated you to do that and what were the key issues you ran your campaign on?
What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Connect with Andri

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Email – andrimagnason@gmail.com

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me on social media platforms:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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I had the pleasure of sitting down with Andri Snær Magnason, an award winning writer of novels, poetry, plays and films. He is also a very active environmental activist. We chatted about his fascinating literary career, how he chooses topics to write about, and so much more.

Because we talked for about one hour and forty five minutes, I decided to break up the episode into two parts. You’ll hear me say in the beginning that I want to speak with Andri about Reykjavík being a UNESCO City of Literature. However, we don’t get to that until the second part because he had so many interesting stories to tell. Some of them include J.R.R. Tolkein, J. Robert Oppenheimer, and the Codex Regius, just to name a few.

Also, I am excited to announce that Andri’s latest book, The Casket of Time has been published in English and is now available for your reading pleasure. It is a young adult Sci-fi novel that weaves together time travel and an environmental crisis for what looks like a captivating read.

I’ve been reading The Story of the Blue Planet, another one of his books. When I am finished with that one I’m looking forward to diving into the one above and his other books.

Below is a picture of the Bónus supermarket pig that Andri and I talk about during the interview.

The Questions I Asked Andri During This Interview

You come from a family of doctors and nurses. What made you become interested in literature and in becoming a writer?
What inspires you to write your poetry and books?
The Icelandic Sagas and many other literary works from various authors, including yourself, have intrigued people all over the world. Why do you think people find Icelandic literature to be so fascinating?

Connect with Andri Snær

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Email - andrimagnason@gmail.com

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me on social media platforms:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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The history of the Icelandic government, also known as Alþingi (pronounced "Althingi"), dates back to the 900s. This episode breaks down the evolution of the government in this country from the very beginning to present day.

The World's Oldest Surviving Parliament

In previous episodes, I have mentioned the Alþingi, which is the the Icelandic parliament. It was founded in 930 at Þingvellir, which is now part of the Golden Circle and is one of the most historically important sites in the country. Iceland claims that the Althingi is the oldest surviving parliament in the world. Because of the history and unique geology in the area, Þingvellir became a National Park on the 1000th year anniversary of the Althingi in 1930. In 2004, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Because most of the settlers in Iceland during the 900s were Norwegian, their heritage greatly influenced the creation of their government. It seems that their main goal was to avoid a centralized authority or King, especially since that is what some of them had fled. Additionally, they wanted to integrate the Norwegian tradition of laws and legal assemblies (aka Þing). This resulted in Iceland forming a unique government.

Þingvellir - Once The Gathering Place of the Alþingi

The gathering of Parliament members in Iceland from 930 to 1800 was an open air assembly on the plains of Þingvellir. While all free men could attend the assemblies, it was Iceland's most powerful leaders, known as goðar or chieftains, that decided on legislation and providing justice for any law related claims brought before them. While legislation was top of mind during these assemblies, they were also the main social event of the year. Farmers, craftsmen, travelers, storytellers, traders, and the families of many of these people attended. Temporary camps, called búðir, were set up in Þingvellir for these assembly events.

The Icelandic Law Rock & Law Speaker

Lögberg, which translates to Law Rock, was the center of the assembly gatherings. An interesting fact is that the exact location of the lögberg is unknown today. You might be thinking, how is that possible? It is not as if this huge rock just moved. But in reality, that might have happened. Some of you that have visited Þingvellir or have heard about it on this show, are aware that this is one of the areas in Iceland where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates are slowly shifting a part by 2cm each year. This area is known as a rift valley. Over the more than 1000 years of shifts in the geography have made it difficult to pinpoint exactly where the Lögberg was located. There are two possible locations but this will remain a mystery until someone is able to prove it.

The lögsögumaður or lawspeaker had a seat on the Law Rock and this person was the official of the assembly. The assemblies were called to order and dissolved at the Law Rock. The lawspeaker, 39 Cheiftains that had their own districts and nine other members made up the Lögrétta, which was the legislative part of the assembly. Not surprisingly, this section of the Althingi was very powerful. They adopted new laws, dealt with legal conflicts, and granted exemptions to existing laws.

The Althingi of the past also had a judicial function that listened to legal disputes. As the parliament evolved, judges were appointed by the chieftains in the Lögrétta (Court of Legislature).

From Commonwealth to Being Ruled by A Monarch

When the Althingi was formed, Iceland was set up as a commonwealth or a free state. In 1262, that came to an end because Icelanders submitted to the authority of Haakon IV, King of Norway. This happened under the terms of the gamli sáttmáli or Old Covenant. Like you, I wondered why would Icelanders give up their free state to be ruled by a monarch, so I dug a little deeper to find out. Before the signing of the covenant, there were civil disputes happening in the country.

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This episode might be short but it gives you a good overview of Icelandic foods to try while in Iceland. Before I jump into this list, I have to inform you that I have been a plant based eater, usually referred to as vegan, for the last five years. However, I did taste all of these foods before I made the transition. The foods on this list are very much a part of the Icelandic food culture and it would be difficult to talk about Iceland without mentioning them.

I just want all of my vegetarian and vegan listeners to know that there are a lot options for you in Iceland and I am working on putting together a video and podcast episode about those options.

Icelandic Hot Dog

Iceland’s hot dog has become a must have food while visiting. Most tasters of it agree that is deserving of its reputation. Its mix of lamb, beef and other sustainably raised meat has become a crowd pleaser. You can top them with fried onions, raw onions, and condiments, such as tomatsosa (ketchup), plysusinnep (a sweet hot dog mustard) and remolaði, which mixes mayo, capers, mustard, and herbs. It is served on a warm bun. You can buy a quality hot dog in any gas station, but the most popular place to get one is at the famous hot dog stand downtown called Bæjarins Bestu Pylsur.

Skyr

The next on the list is skyr, which is a cultured dairy product made in Iceland that has the consistency of strained yogurt. Surprisingly, it is classified as cheese but I consider it yogurt. It is packed with protein, vitamins and minerals, and is naturally fat free. Its texture, taste and diet friendly nutrition have made it popular around the world. There is a good chance that Siggi’s skyr or some other Icelandic foods brand is available in your grocery store right now. When visiting Iceland, you will be able to have some from different brands. The amount of flavors here is pretty incredible.

Ice Cream

A dairy product that rivals skyr in popularity in Iceland is ice cream. There is no such thing as ice cream season in this country. Even when there is a snow storm outside, people will still head over to the ice cream shop for their favorite ice cream. There are several ways that Icelandic people like to enjoy their ice cream. One is having a swirl of vanilla ice cream on a cone dipped in a warm sauce, such as caramel, chocolate, liquorice and many others. The sauce coats the ice cream and forms a thin hard shell of candy around it. Another way to eat ice cream in Iceland is in a cup mixed with candies of your choice. While they do have different sizes to choose from, I feel like a “small” is huge and would be more than enough for two people or one person who has a big appetite and really loves ice cream. The ice cream stores are called ísbuðin or literally ice cream store. There are plenty of them around and are easy to spot because they usually have an illustration of ice cream on a cone in the window of the store. There are some places that offer vegan ice cream in Iceland but my ultimate favorite is Brynjuís in Kopavogur, a neighborhood in the Reykjavík area. If you are lactose intolerant or a vegan but you still want creamy and delicious ice cream, definitely try their vegan ice cream. You can have it soy or coconut based. The coconut based one is absolutely divine!

Lamb

Icelandic people have been raising and eating lamb for centuries. Eating lamb is a huge part of their culture and they have eaten it in many different forms. Some of the most notable is slow roasted, in a stew or eating cooked lambs head. Another is pickled lamb’s head but that isn’t something that everyone is willing to taste. Icelandic people normally eat that during Þórrablót, which a festival that I talk about during my Holidays, Celebrations and Traditions episode. This Icelandic foods festival is popular among the natives.

Icelandic Candy, Including Liquorice

Like ice cream, candy holds a special place in Icelandic people’s hearts and stomach.

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Even though, English is widely spoken in Iceland, I think these words and phrases will certainly come in handy if you plan to visit or if you already live here and want to learn the language. Even if you don’t have Iceland on your bucket list, I find it is a fascinating language to listen to, especially since it has not evolved much since the 12th century. For anyone that is curious about the history of the Icelandic language check out the podcast episode I did about it.

If you find yourself interested in learning more Icelandic words and phrases after listening to this episode, head over to my Instagram account @Foreign2familiar. I teach a new Icelandic word or phrase in my Instagram stories every day. Icelandic Letters That Are Not in the English Alphabet Before I jump into the useful phrases, I want to point out that there are some letters in Icelandic that do not exist in English and they are the following:

Ð - a "th" such as in weather

þ - a"th" sound that is unvoiced

I am not going to go over every word in the Icelandic alphabet because that would make this episode much longer. However, I have included a cute Youtube video below about how to pronounce Icelandic letters.

One simple rule to remember when saying Icelandic words is that the stress falls on the first syllable of a word.

I am going to start off with the most widely used words and phrases that are helpful when you are interacting with a person that speaks Icelandic. Then, I will move on to words and phrases to know when at a restaurant. Following that are useful words if a problem arises (such as needing the police, if you are sick and so on). The third section are words about common signs in Iceland. Lastly, are words for service places and titles of professionals that you might need, such as a doctor. Ok, now let’s jump into some Icelandic. Most Widely Used Words & Phrases in Iceland Já - Yes

Jú - Yoo and it is used for answering a negative question

Nei - No

Góðan daginn or Goðan dag - Good morning or Good afternoon. Commonly used at any time before 6 PM

Sæll - Hello (informal, to a man).

Sæl - Hello (informal, to a woman).

Hæ - Hi (pronounced just like the English word)

Gott kvöld or Goða kvöldið - Good evening - commonly used after 6 PM

Ég heiti ______ - My name is ______

Gaman að kynnast þér - Nice to meet you.

Hvað segirðu gott? - How are you? or literally What say you good?

Ég segi allt gott, þakka þér fyrir - Fine, thank you.

Hvað heitirðu? - What is your name?

Ég er frá - I am from

Weirdly enough, Icelandic people don’t have a word for “please”. The closest word they have is vinsamlegast, which means kindly.

Gjörðu svo vel, (to one person) or Gerið þið svo vel (to many people) - Here you are or if you please

Takk fyrir or Takk - Thank you.

Ekkert að þakka or Ekkert mál - You're welcome.

Afsakið - Excuse me, (getting someone's attention).

Fyrirgefðu - Excuse me, (begging pardon).

Ha? - I'm sorry, if you didn't hear what they said

Því miður - I'm sorry, (regretful)

Bless or bless bless - Goodbye

Bæ - Bye

Góða nótt - Good night.

Sofðu vel - Sleep well

Ég skil ekki - I don't understand.

Gætirðu talað hægar? - Could you speak more slowly?

Ég tala ekki íslensku- I can't speak Icelandic

Ég tala ekki íslensku svo vel - I can't speak Icelandic so well

Talarðu ensku? - Do you speak English?

Er einhver hér sem talar ensku? - Is there someone here who speaks English?

Hvernig segir maður _____ á íslensku? - How do you say _____ in Icelandic?

Ég tala ensku, spænsku, þysku, og smá íslensku - I speak English, Spanish, German and a little Icelandic.

Ok - Allt í lagí or ókei (used among the younger generations)

Hvar er klósettið? - Where is the toilet?

Hvar er _______ ? - Where is _______?

Hvað kostar það? - What does it cost? Interacting at a Restaurant

Ég ætla að fá… - I would like...

Áttu til…? - Have you got any…?

Meira - More

Meira takk - More, thanks or more, please

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To kick off my comeback to podcasting, I am sharing an awesome interview I did with Andie Fontaine, the News Editor of The Reykjavík Grapevine. Andie is originally from Baltimore. They have been living in Iceland since 1999 and has Icelandic citizenship. We dive into what it has been like for Andie to learn Icelandic, their views on immigration, coming out as transgender and many other fascinating topics.

By the way, we did this interview at the office of the Reykjavík Grapevine, so there is some background noise at times.

The Questions I Asked Andie Fontaine During the Interview

When did you move to Iceland and what motivated you to come here?Did anything about Icelandic culture, the people or the landscape surprise you?What was it like learning Icelandic?What was the biggest challenge you faced with adjusting to life here?You are currently the news editor for the Reykjavík Grapevine, a popular publication here that is in English. What made you want to join the Reykjavík Grapevine team?After the many years that you have lived here, do you feel like you are Icelandic?What is something about Iceland that people in other countries, the U.S. or wherever would be surprised to know or learn about?Recently, you announced on Facebook that you have been officially registered in the Trans Team Process in Iceland. What has coming out as trans in Iceland been like for you? Do you feel that Iceland has a supportive and positive attitude toward people who identify as trans? What advice do you have for people who are interested in moving to Iceland?Is there anything that you miss about the United States?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me on social media platforms:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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Icelandic food culture is deeply rooted in Scandinavian cuisine. As I mentioned in the "Brief History of the Icelandic language" episode, Iceland was settled mostly by farmers from Norway along with Vikings and some Celtic people who were made slaves after being captured by those Vikings . These Scandinavian people brought with them their cooking traditions and farming lifestyle. However, there is not much evidence of Celtic influence in Icelandic cooking.

Icelandic Food Culture During the Middle Ages During those medieval times, settlers grew barley and oats and raised mainly cattle.They also raised other animals, like sheep, horses, pigs, chickens and goats.

The rivers in the country provided fresh water fish and people with boats could venture out to the sea to catch cod, haddock and other variety of saltwater fish. Fish was either eaten fresh or stored in salt and then dried. The salt was made by boiling salt water or burning seaweed. However, firewood in Iceland was used up quickly in most areas of the country, so dried salted fish was eventually phase out. Drying fresh fish in the wind was the dominant way of preserving this food, which is still done today to make harðfiskur. Meat was also preserved in fermented whey. Fermentation of shark, skate and herring still happen today.

One would assume that there were a lot of fishing villages in Iceland since the beginning of when it was settled, but that was not the case. The farmers that settled there seemed to be stubbornly devoted to cultivating crops in such a harsh climate. Some were even opposed to fishing villages, mainly because fishing was considered a lot more risky when compared to farming. However, this didn’t stop people from fishing or consuming that food. While stockfish was used for trading with other countries, Iceland wasn’t heavily relying on fishing to fuel their economy until the 20th century. Meat and dairy products were what primarily made up the Icelandic diet for many centuries. Dairy, Turf Houses & A Little Ice Age Like many western cultures, Icelandic people love cheese and other dairy products. For centuries, they have been creating cheese from goat, sheep or cow’s milk. Interestingly, skyr, a food that Iceland is known for is said to have come from Norway but it seems that it fell off as a food in Norway, but it never disappeared from the Icelandic diet. The leftover whey from skyr was allowed to sour and then was used to preserve meat. As I mentioned in my Top 10 Icelandic foods to try episode, skyr is classified as a cheese, even though people, including myself, call it yogurt. Check out that episode to find out what the other foods are.

From settlement times until the 14 century, Icelandic people used to live in longhouses that placed the kitchen in the center of the house in order to heat it up. Earth ovens were used for making bread and cooking meat. During sometime in the 14th century, those longhouses were replaced by turf houses. These houses were smaller and the kitchen had its own room with a raised stone or hearth. Hooks were hung from above to hold pots at the desired height from the fire. During this time there was also shift from eating two meals a day to eating three.

During medieval times, grains were more easily incorporated into the Icelandic diet. On average, it was a warmer time, which allowed for barley and other grains to be grown in Iceland. However, that all changed when the country and other parts of Europe and North America experienced a “Little Ice Age”. The cooler climate started in the 14th century and continued until halfway through the 19 century. While there is some debate about why this cooling period happened, some causes that have been proposed include more volcanic activity, changes in the ocean circulation, cyclical lows in solar radiation, as well as variations in the Earth’s orbit and axial tilt. The colder climate made it harder to yield a lot of grain and Icelandic people started to depend m...

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If you are planning a trip to Iceland at any time in the future, this episode of the All Things Iceland podcast will arm you with useful facts and tips that will make your preparation much smoother.

Prepare for Icelandic Weather I’m going to start off with one of the most important things to keep in mind when you travel to Iceland - the weather! Regardless of the season, the weather in Iceland can vary wildly. In one minute, it can be raining and windy and in the next, the sun can be shining and it is a lot less windy. We’ve even had snow and hail during the summer. While snow and hail are rare in the summer, it is best to know that rain and strong winds are likely to show up during your trip. Vedur.is is the weather website that most Icelandic people look at when they want to know what to expect weather wise.

What to pack for Summer & Winter in Iceland Regardless of the season in Iceland, you will need to pack layers. The average temperature in Reykjavík during winter is freezing (32 degrees F or 0 degrees celsius), but it can be much colder in other parts of the country, especially north. During the summer, the temperature can range from 10 - 13 degrees Celsius or 50 - 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Check out my podcast episodes about summer and winter for more information. As I mentioned in the weather portion of this episode, one thing that is best to be prepared for is the varying weather conditions.

The list I am about to share is in no way all you should pack. These are items I feel that you should for sure pack. Clothes like underwear and toiletries are not mentioned because I assume you will have some. If you don’t, no judgement on my end. For summer, definitely pack the following:

waterproof or water resistant jacket or coat with a hood- Goretex is your friend waterproof or water resistant pants Sweater - preferably a breathable material made from synthetic or natural fibers, like wool. If you are hiking, don’t wear cotton. It holds onto the moisture from your body and can make you feel wet and cold. No jeans while hiking either, but you can wear them around town or if you will mostly be in the car A light shirt for underneath your sweater. If it gets quite warm, relatively warm for Iceland, it will be nice to have this layer Sun protection in the form of a hat, sunscreen and sunglasses. The sun is very strong here and you can get burned or tan quickly. Hiking boots with good grip, Vibram soles do the trick - this is especially needed for hiking, walking on uneven ground (which is everywhere outside of the city) and for ensuring that you won’t slip on wet surfaces. You can, of course, bring regular shoes or sneakers to wear in the city, but if you want to explore outside of urban areas, hiking boots is a must. Ones that go over the ankle are especially good for glacier walks and supporting your ankles on uneven or sloped terrain. A swimsuit Gloves A buff, which can be used as a scarf, hat or to pull your hair back Reusable water bottle. Icelandic water is delicious and you can drink it right out of the tap or from fresh water streams. You do not have to buy bottled water here, so reduce your use of plastic and save yourself some money by bringing a reusable bottle Your camera - smartphones work just fine. The landscapes are gorgeous here.

For winter, definitely pack the following:

A warm winter coat with a good water resistant layer Sweater - preferably a breathable material made from synthetic or natural fibers, like wool. Similar to hiking, if you are going on a glacier, don’t wear cotton, including jeans. It holds onto the moisture from your body and can make you feel wet and cold. A warm hat, scarf and gloves (you can include warmers to put in your gloves if your hands get very cold) Winter boots with good grip in the sole Warm socks Long johns or long underwear Microspikes are optional but many paths in the city and out of town have a layer of ice on them

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In the last episode, I went over Iceland’s noteworthy traditions, holidays and celebrations. I recommend checking it out, if you haven’t already. This week, I am expanding on the Christmas holiday celebrations that I spoke about in that episode. While most countries that celebrate Christmas only have one Santa that comes to town, Iceland somehow ended up with 13! During this episode, I will talk about where these 13 Santa Clauses or Yule Lads come from, when they come to town, what they do while in town and include some other interesting characters that show up during Christmas.

Are They Icelandic Yule Lads or Santa Claus? While Yule lad is the most appropriate term for these 13 mountain dwellers, Santa is a term that has continuously been used throughout the years, so I will use them interchangeably in this episode. In fact, they are called Jólasveinn in Icelandic, which translates to Yule Lad or Santa Claus. Where do Iceland's Yule Lads Come From? When it is not Christmas time, Iceland’s 13 Santas live in a cave in the mountains with their mother Grýla, as well as a gigantic black yule cat and their mother’s 3rd husband, Leppalúði. This might sound cozy but Grýla is a giant troll that has an insatiable appetite for bad children and her husband shares the same pleasure in eating misbehaved kids. Grýla likes to make stew out of the bad children that she collects.

Additionally, their yule cat is a vicious monster that eats people that have not received any new clothes to wear before Christmas Eve. I think anyone growing up in a household like that would be kind of strange, and the 13 Yule lads are certainly not an exception. They each have their own personality and a specific mischievous act that they do when visiting houses in Iceland during Christmas. In fact, their names describe the special thing that they do while visiting.

Grýla illustrated by Brian Pilkington

As I mentioned in the episode about Icelandic holidays, traditions and celebrations, the first Yule Lad comes to town on December 12th and the last one arrives on December 24th. Back in the day, they weren’t that nice but as the years have passed, they have become milder in nature and have even started to leave gifts for children. Mischievous Yule Lads Turn Into Gift Giving Santa Clauses When it is time for the Santa Clauses to start coming to town, Icelandic children leave one of their shoes in the window before going to sleep on each of the 13 nights. Good children will find a little gift in their shoe when they wake up in the morning. However, misbehaved children will receive a potato, which could be rotten. Below, you can see the spelling of the names of the Yule Lads in Icelandic. I have also included the days that each lad arrives and the day when they leave town.

Ok, now let’s jump into the names of each of the 13 Icelandic Santa Stekkjarstaur 1.Stekkjarstaur - Sheep Cote-Clod or also known as “stiff legs” - He is said to have such stiff legs that he walks as if they are peg legs. He harasses sheep, and steals milk by suckling the ewes on a farm. (12 December to 25 December)

Stekkjarstaur illustration by Brian Pilkington Giljagaur 2. Giljagaur - Gully Gawk- Hides in gullies, waiting for an opportunity to sneak into the cowshed and steal milk. (13 December to 26 December) Stúfur 3. Stúfur - Stubby - Abnormally short. Steals pans to eat the crust and leftovers in them. (14 December to 27 December) Þvörusleikir 4. Þvörusleikir - Spoon-Licker Steals Þvörur (a type of a wooden spoon with a long handle) to lick. Apparently, he Is extremely thin due to malnutrition. (15 December 28 December)

Þvorusleikir Illustration by Brian Pilkington Pottaskefill 5. Pottaskefill - Pot-Scraper - Steals leftovers from pots and licks them clean. (16 December to 29 December) Askasleikir 6. Askasleikir - Bowl-Licker - Hides under beds waiting for someone to put down their "askur" (a type of bowl with a lid used instead of dishes),

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Because the holiday season is right around the corner, I thought it would be fun to share the list of Icelandic holidays and traditions they celebrate throughout the year. Some of the traditions might sound the same or similar to some of your traditions while others might be completely new to you.

Icelandic Holidays, Traditions & Celebrations 1. Fyrsti Vetradagur - First Day of Winter As I am recording this, it is October and the next holiday tradition coming up is fyrsti vetradagur, which is the first day of winter. It is the Saturday that falls between October 21st and 27th and is according to the Old Norse calendar. If you are curious about what winter in like in Iceland, here is the link to my podcast episode “How to Survive an Icelandic Winter”. On this day, merchants on Skólavörðustígur, the street that leads to Hallgrimskirkja church, hand out free meat soup. From this day until the 21st of December, the shortest day of the year, the length of daylight decreases rapidly. 2. Jólabókaflóðið - The Christmas Book flood

The beginning of November is the start of Jólabókaflóðið or the Christmas Book flood. During this time, the list of newly published books is announced in Iceland. Giving a book on Christmas eve is a longstanding tradition in Iceland that started during World War 2. Books weren’t as expensive back then, so families could offer to give them as presents. The bulk of books sales for the year happens at this time. Every person gets a book in the family to take to bed with them. I think it is lovely that after dinner and opening gifts on Christmas Eve, that Icelandic people cozy up with a book and some chocolate. After Christmas, everyone talks about the books they have read and give their opinion on it. 3. Dagur Íslenskrar Tungu - Icelandic Language Day It is celebrated on November 16th, which is the same day as the birthday of 19th-century poet Jónas Hallgrímsson. Even though not every Icelandic person celebrates this day, most, if not all, are very proud of their language. In my second podcast episode, which is a brief history of the Icelandic language, I talk about the committee that was formed to preserve the language. Dagur Íslenskrar tungu was created because Icelandic people feel it is important to protect their language. Sometimes there are gatherings to celebrate this day. 4. Icelandic Sovereignty Day December 1st is Sovereignty day, not to be confused with Icelandic Republic Day on June 17th. On this day in 1918, Iceland signed the Act of Union with Denmark, which recognized Iceland as a fully sovereign state but was still united with Denmark under a common monarch. Before Icelandic Republic day, this used to be a national holiday and people had a day off from work. While it is no longer a day that people have off, many people still fly the Icelandic flag and observe it in their own way. I’ll talk more about Icelandic Republic day later on in this podcast. 5. The 13 Icelandic Yule Lads Come to Town

The Christmas holiday season is in full swing in December. People have already decorated their houses with lots of colorful lights, there are festive activities and people are extra cheery. I feel like it kicks into high gear when the 13 Yule Lads or 13 Santa Clauses start coming to down to town from the mountains.

The first comes on December 12th and they arrive one by one until the last lad is in town on December 24th, which is Christmas Eve. I plan to do a podcast episode on the 13 Yule lads before Christmas this year, so keep a look out for that. For now, just know that the Santas are quite mischievous and they each have a particular thing that they do while in your house that can be considered annoying or funny, depending on who you ask. The bright side is that they bring well behaved children small gifts. 6. Þorláksmessa - St. Þórlákur's Mass If you are in Iceland on December 23rd, you might get a strong whiff of something putrid. Just know that your nose is not deceiving you because you are p...

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Gleðilegt nýtt ár!!! Happy New Year. Because the new year can feel like the time for new beginnings, I know 2019 does for me, I thought it would be fun to talk about the person who founded Reykjavík. He is also recognized as the first permanent Norse settler of Iceland.

The First Norsemen in Iceland

According to the Landnámabók, which literally means the book of settlements, Ingólfur Arnarson, his wife Hallveig Fróðadóttir, his step brother Hjörleirfur Hróðmarsson and their slaves arrived in Iceland in the later half of the 800s. He gave Reykjavík its name in 874. Ari Þórgilsson, a medieval historian, claimed that Ingólfur and his crew were the first Norsemen to settle in Iceland. However, there were Irish monks that had been living in the country before Ingólfur arrived. These people eventually left because they did not want to live among heathens.

While it is true that many settlers that came to Iceland after Ingólfur were looking for new land to cultivate to call their own, Ingólfur’s main reason for leaving Norway was due to a blood feud. He and Hjörleifur killed the two sons of a Norse Earl. This resulted in Ingólfur having to give up his land possessions to the Earl. With no land of his own to speak of in his birth country, he set sail to the west to start over.

How Ingólfur Founded Reykjavík, Iceland

What I find most interesting about where Ingólfur decided to settle, is his method for choosing the place. While on his ship, he saw Iceland’s rugged natural landscape in the distance. Instead of saying that he would settle wherever his ship hit the shore, he decided to leave it up to the gods. As a chieftain, he sat on a high seat that had pillars with engravings on them. These carved pillars had the family name, a special emblem and representations of all of the gods. However, it is worth noting that the chieftain owed their highest allegiance to the god that was prominently represented on the pillars.

Interestingly, Ingólfur took those carved pillars from his high seat and threw them into the water. He vowed that he would build his farm wherever those pillars came ashore on the island. Where his ship hit the shore is called Ingólfshöfði and he spent his first winter there, but that is not where the pillars were found.

Ingólfur sent two of his Celtic slaves, Vífill and Karli, to search for the pillars. Incredibly, it took them 3 years to find the carved pillars. They located them in a small bay in the south western part of the country. The slaves reported back to Ingólfur that they had found the pillars, but were not impressed with the land where the pillars were located. Ingólfur seemed to not care much about their opinion of the place. The gods had made their decision and Ingólfur moved to that place. He named the area Reykjavík, which literally means steam or smoke bay, because of the large amount of steam rising up from the nearby hot springs.

Legal Owner of South Western Iceland

To give you some kind of reference of how much land Ingólfur claimed, his farm was between the Botnsá river in Hvalfjörður, or whale fjord, in the west to Ölfusá river in the east. According to Google Maps, if you wanted to travel from one river to the next, you would have to walk almost 100 kilometers or about 62 miles. As a reward for finding the pillars, Ingólfur gave Vílfill and Karli their freedom and land to set up farms. He also gave a considerable amount of land to his relatives that came to settle in Iceland.

At some point, Ingólfur was the legal owner of the South Western part of Iceland. However, he ended up giving away or selling a lot of the land to incoming settlers from Scandinavian countries.

Icelandic Settlement Drama

Of course, a settlement story wouldn’t be complete without more drama. Ingólfur´s half brother Hjörleifur was murdered by his slaves because of his terrible treatment of them. To get revenge, Ingólfur tracked down the slaves and killed them in the Westman Is...

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In anticipation of the season 8 premiere for Game of Thrones on April 14th, I have decided to dedicate this episode to sharing the location of where the scenes for the show were filmed in Iceland. I am also including film locations that have been confirmed for the upcoming season. Even if you are not a fan of the show, the places on the list of where the scenes were shot are beautiful and worth checking out if you plan to visit.

Season 2

Beyond the Wall - Svínafellsjökull Glacier in Skaftafell

Iceland has not appeared in every season of the show, but the first time the country made its appearance is during season 2. The filming takes place in Skaftafell along the south coast.

I have been fortunate to visit the Skaftafell area numerous times since moving to Iceland. It is part of the Vatnajökull National Park, and it is home to gigantic glaciers and awesome hiking trails. To depict the harsh, cold and stunning world beyond the wall in Game of Thrones, the show filmed on Svínafellsjökull glacier. A decent amount of well known movies have been shot on that glacier. In fact, it is called the “Hollywood glacier” by some.

The unfortunate part is that the glacier is no longer accessible because there is danger of a nearby mountain crumbling and breaking up the ice on the glacier. Authorities don’t know if the rock fall will happen soon or in the next ten years. However, they are taking precautions by making Svínafellsjökull off limits. Well, at least for now.

Svínafellsjökull Glacier

Even though you can’t go on that particular glacier right now, you can imagine that you are beyond the wall if you walk on one of the other glaciers in the area. Falljökull and Skaftafellsjökull are awesome alternatives that tourism companies are using these days. Regardless of the glacier you choose, make sure you go with certified glacier guides to ensure that you have a safe and fun experience.

The Fist of the First Men on Mýrdalsjökull Glacier

Another scene from Game of Thrones that shows up in season 2 is when the show depicts Mýrdalsjökull glacier as the Fist of the First Men. The First Men are one of the three main ethnic groups that evolved into the people that make up Westeros. Well, the fictional people on the show. The Fist is a defense location that offers commanding views.

In the fifth episode of season 2, you see the Knights Watch arrive at the Fist of the First Men. They are using the Höfðabrekka hiking area near the glacier. Below is a video of the scene when the men arrive in the area.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oxzljfS4sa4

Season 3

The Many Faces of Mývatn

During season 3, the Mývatn area in the north of the country was used a decent amount to depict different places in Game of Thrones. The Dimmuborgir lava field is where Mance Rayder, the leader of the Free Folk, aka the king beyond the wall, had his Wildling army set up camp.

At Hverir geothermal area, part of the Diamond Circle, in the north, you see Samwell Tarly walking through what looks like a blizzard. There is snow on the ground but what is making the air look so gray and hard to navigate is actually the steam coming up from the natural bubbling hot springs in the area. It stinks of sulphur but at least he was warm.

I visited Hverir this past December and I highly recommend going there. Yes, it smells pretty intense but you do kind of get used to it. What makes it worth a visit is the colors in this area and the sight of steam escaping the ground as if it were coming out of a hissing chimney. The whole area looks like an alien planet and it is absolutely fascinating. I have some videos of it on my Instagram account, if you want to check it out.

Grjótagjá Cave: Where Jon Snow & Ygritte Cemented Their Love

Grjótagjá cave

Jon and Ygritte’s steamy love making session in the Grjótagjá cave in the Mývatn area is sweet but not entirely realistic if you want to reenact that scene.

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Akureyri, also known as the capital of the north in Iceland, is the fourth largest municipality in Iceland. Reykjavík, Hafnarfjörður and Kopavogur are larger. This town of about 18,500 people is small in comparison to Reykjavík, but it is bustling with life.

Akureyri’s History

This area that Akureyri is located was originally settled in the 9th century by a Norse Viking named Helgi magri (the slim) Eyvindarson. However, you don’t see the name Akureyri mentioned in any court records until 1562. That year a woman was sentenced there for committing adultery. During the 17th century, Danish merchants set up their trading operations in the town during summer because the town has an amazing natural harbor and the surrounding area is quite fertile.

Even though, this area was being used by merchants and people were living there, it wasn’t granted its municipal charter by the Danish king until 1786. This act by the king was intended to help the town grow into an urban area. However, it was deemed unsuccessful because the population didn’t grow beyond the 12 people that lived there. In 1836, Akureyri lost its municipal status, but did get it back in 1862. The town’s great port conditions and agricultural region helped it to grow its population.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=080yUIby1_4

Geography and Climate

Most people assume that the farther north you go in Iceland, the colder the weather. That is not necessarily the case for Akureryi. It is located at 65 degrees North and 18 degrees West. Even though, the Arctic Circle is only about 60 kilometers north of the town, the climate there is still quite mild and is classified as subarctic. Surprisingly, the temperatures in the summer can reach up to 25 degrees Celsius or 77 degrees Fahrenheit. The average temperature in the winter is 0 degrees Celsius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The relatively warm climate, at this latitude, allows for the botanical gardens to flourish without greenhouses.

It is in one of the longest fjords in the country and is surrounded by beautiful mountains that reach between 1000 - 1500 meters high. The high mountains shield the town from strong winds. Akureyri is quite a cloudy place and it barely sees any sunshine between November and February. However, it has much lower precipitation than in the south of Iceland. On average, it gets about ⅕ the amount of rain that Vík in Mýrdál, the popular town in the south, gets throughout the year.

World War II

Akureyri was one of the three air bases used by the Norwegian-British squadron that flew Northrop N-3PB bombers during World War II. The other two air bases were in Reykjavík and Budareyri. The squadron flew from Akureyri from April 25th, 1941 until April 5th, 1943. They also operated Catalina flying boats from the town. These boast protected convoys between the U.S., the U.K., and Murmansk in northern Russia from attack by German submarines.

Commercial Business in Akureyri

As I mentioned in the All Things Iceland podcast episode about Halldór Laxness, many Icelandic people started moving from the countryside in Iceland to urban areas. While commerce and service industries were the most popular employers in the Akureyri in the 20th century, the fishing industry started to dominate in the early 21st century.

As I had mentioned earlier in this episode, Akureryi has amazing port conditions. What I mean by that is that their harbour remains ice free all year long, which is incredible and convenient for fishing merchants. This town is home to two out of the five largest fishing companies in Iceland. The ice free port certainly has played a role in that. Additionally, the largest brewery in Iceland Vílfilfell and Sjúkrahús Akureyrar, one of the two major hospitals in Iceland, are in Akureyri.

How To Get to Akureyri

If you are planning to visit Akureyri, I highly recommend it. I had the pleasure of going there in December and it was absolutely lovely.

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While Iceland is not known for getting involved in wars, the country found itself in a territorial battle with Britain. The disputes are called the Cod Wars and they lasted for almost 20 years.

First, It Was Denmark vs Britain

The seas surrounding Iceland are rich with marine life, especially fish. British fishermen had been capturing cod in Icelandic waters since the 15th century. In the early 16th century, it became common to see many of their boats off the coast of the island. While Icelandic people did capture fish back then, fishing was not a major industry in the country until the 20th century.

Before there was a dispute between Iceland and Britain, there was conflict between Denmark and the British. The Danish were worried about how close British boats were fishing near Icelandic shores in the late 1800s. As I have mentioned in previous episodes, Iceland was ruled by Denmark until 1945. Denmark also governs the Faroe Islands. The invention of steam powered boats allowed for fishermen to travel to much farther distances. This meant that the amount of British vessels around the Icelandic shore started to rapidly increase.

Danish Gunboat

As a response, the Danish government claimed a fishing limit of 50 nautical miles (93 km) around Icelandic shore in 1893. The British government did not recognize the claim set by the Danish government because they felt it would damage British fishing industry. British fishing boats continued to violate the claim by the Danish government. In retaliation, Danish gunboats would fine British trawlers that they found fishing illegally within the off limits area. The Royal Navy was deployed in 1896 and 1897 to make a show of naval force, but that only increased the tension between the nations.

A Major Incident Between the Danish & the British

One major incident, sparked the countries to finally come to an agreement. Caspian, a British steam trawler was fishing off the coast of the Faroe islands in April 1899. A Danish gunboat attempted to arrest the boat for fishing within the off limits area. When the gunboat saw that the trawler refused to stop, they first fired blank shells at the boat, but later used live ammunition. The Danish did eventually capture the Caspian but there is a bit more drama to the whole incident.

Charles Henry Johnson, the Captain of the Caspian, had a little trick up his sleeve. Before he left to board the Danish gunboat, he ordered his mate to make a dash for it after he had safely made it to the other boat. Once Johnson was aboard the gunboat, the Caspian took off at full speed. The Danish fired on the boat but was not able to stop it from getting away. When the Caspian arrived in Grimsby, England, it was heavily damaged. Johnson was tied to the mast on the boat. Later, he was tried in a court on the Faroe Islands. He was convicted of illegal fishing and attempted assault, and was jailed for 30 days.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FsOytZMRXo0

Due to this incident, the Danish and British formed the Anglo-Danish Territorial Waters agreement in 1901. It set 3 nautical mile (6 km) territorial limits for Iceland for 50 years. While it was narrowly followed, it was an important precedent. The First World War ended the dispute for a while and decreased the fishing activity around Icelandic shores.

Iceland & The United Kingdom Start to Dispute

In 1949, Iceland started the process of repealing the Anglo-Danish Territorial Waters agreement set by Denmark & Britain in 1901. Before deciding on how many nautical miles off of their shores are off limits for British ships, they waited to hear the results from the UK-Norway Fisheries case in the International Court of Justice.

It seems that the United Kingdom had disputes with a couple of Nordic countries when it came to fishing near their shores. The ruling from the International Court of Justice was in Norway’s favor. Icelanders felt that increasing their limit from 3 nm...

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Christmas in Iceland is a lovely time. Everyone is merry and there are lots of fun events happening. I purposefully decided not to include Christmas activities that not holiday related on this list. You won’t hear me say, hunt for Northern Lights, go on a Glacier Walk, ride an Icelandic horse and so on during this episode. While those activities are awesome, they can be experienced when it is not Christmas in Iceland. Because the Christmas season in Iceland lasts for about a month, you will have lots of time to tick off some of the activities on this list.

Try Icelandic Christmas Beer (jólabjór)

I am a big fan of tasty beers and Iceland has a thriving craft beer culture. In fact, one of my favorite episodes of this podcast is my interview about Iceland’s complicated and fascinating beer history with Óli the brewmaster at Ægisgarður brewery. Icelandic brewers start to offer their special Christmas brews around mid November. It is a glorious time and there are such tasty varieties. My two favorite are Egill’s Malt Jólabjór and Einstök´s Icelandic doppelbock. I highly recommend trying those and others while you are. I know that some Icelandic companies are exporting their beer, so you might find some Icelandic Christmas beer at a distributor near you.

Laufabrauð

Next up is eating Laufabrauð, or leaf bread. Some people even call it snowflake bread. It is at type of bread that looks like a thin, flat cake. Geometric or leaf like patterns are cut into it and it is then fried quickly in fat or oil. It is only served during this time and it is yummy. Some people make it at home and many buy them from bakeries. Many of the supermarkets in Reykjavík carry them, but if you can get your hands on some fresh, homemade laufrabrauð, you are in for a treat.

Ice Skating in Ingólfstorg

Ice skating, in general, is an activity that you can do in Iceland at any time of the year at the Laugadalur sports center. However, ice skating outside in Ingólfstorg or Ingólfs Square is only reserved for the Christmas season. It kind of reminds me of ice skating in Rockefeller Center in NYC, expect it is not as extravagant and it might even be a smaller rink.

Eat some Christmas cookies - Piparkökur

It wouldn’t be Christmas for me in Iceland if I didn’t eat some piparkökur or pepper cookies. I know it might sound strange to want to eat cookies with pepper in them but don’t let that deter you. They taste similar to gingerbread cookies. Hopefully, that helps anyone that is on the fence with trying them. Boxes of them are sold in the supermarkets in Iceland. They are seriously delicious. I probably gain a few pounds during the holidays just because of these cookies.

Visit a Christmas Market

Like many communities that celebrate Christmas, Iceland has Christmas markets that feature locally made crafts and food. They are great places to find a unique gift for yourself or someone else.

Eat at a Christmas Buffet – Jólahlaðborð

Many restaurants in Iceland prepare special Christmas buffet menus. It is a tradition for most Icelandic people to get together with friends and family to chow down at a Christmas buffet. While the traditional fare, such as potatoes prepared in different ways, lamb, pickled herring, red cabbage, green peas and so on are served at the buffet, some modern dishes do show up as well.

Try Skatta

As I had mentioned in my Icelandic traditions, holidays and celebrations episode, December 23rd is one of the smelliest days of the year in Iceland. Many Icelandic people are enjoying their once a year indulgence in skatta, or fermented skate. The putrid smell wafts through air, crawls up your nostrils and pokes your brain. It is a smell that lingers in people’s clothes and is one you won’t forget easily. Many people don’t eat it in their house because they don’t want the smell in their furniture and any other items in their house that might hold onto smells.

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Many people think that the hidden people in the land of fire and ice are just elves. However, hidden people actually includes the many different types of beings that are rarely, if ever, seen here. In addition to elves, there are trolls, dwarfs, gnomes, fairies, mountain spirits and ghosts. There are also a variety of monsters.

Icelandic folklore includes many fascinating and frightening stories that I plan to talk about in future episodes of this podcast. As a primer for future shows, I have decided to give you an overview of these different hidden beings in this episode.

Elves - The Most Popular of the Hidden People in Iceland

Elves are by far the most well-known of the hidden people here because media sources have printed that the majority of the population in Iceland believes that they exist. The funny part is thing is that while many Icelandic people won’t say they absolutely do believe in elves, a good chunk of them won’t say outright that elves do not exist. It is as if they don’t want to make a decision just in case elves really do exist. I find it amusing. The story of how elves came to be hidden people is quite sad and is related to Christianity. Iceland became a Christian nation in the 11th century. With the religion came fascinating stories and there a couple of scenarios that explain the origins of elves.

How Elves Came Into Existence

The first is that Adam and Eve had many children in the Garden of Eden. In preparation for a visit from god, Eve tried to clean all of her children. Unfortunately, she didn’t finish cleaning all of them in time. She hid the dirty ones away from god and lied about their existence because she was ashamed. According to Jón Arnarsson, who wrote Icelandic Legends, god knew that Adam and Eve had more children that were hidden. God said to Eve, "What man hides from God, God will hide from man.” Those unwashed children then became invisible. It is believed that the children that were not hidden from god are us, the people that you see all over the world.

The 2nd scenario of how elves originated is that they come from Lilith, a figure in Jewish mythology that appears as a dangerous demon in the darkness. She is said to be sexually wanton and steals babies in the night. According to Jewish mythology, she was Adam’s first wife but she left him because she didn’t want to become subservient to him. She left the Garden of Eden and became involved with an archangel Samael. The last scenario is that elves are fallen angels that are condemned to live between heaven and earth.

These beings looks like humans and they live in rocks and hills. Icelandic people have a lot of respect for the homes of elves and they generally do their best to avoid disturbing them. Roads have been built around areas or rocks that elves are said to live. Sometimes a medium that can communicate with elves is consulted before construction is done in an area that might be inhabited by elves.

Where to Find Elves in Iceland

If you are wondering where you can find elves, there are many places around the country where they are said to dwell. One very popular place is the Elf Stone in Grjótaþorp, the oldest neighborhood in Reykjavík. Another is along the south coast. It is quite a huge rock near Skógafoss that has some incredible stories attached to it. Because it is on a farmer’s land, you would have to ask permission to see it up close.

There are also doors that have been painted on rocks around the country and some people have tiny houses that they set up in their gardens for elves to live in. In addition to possibly meeting an elf out in the wilderness by chance, there are certain times of the year when it is said that the odds of a person coming in contact with an elf is higher. On New Year’s Eve there are bonfires happening around the country. That night is when elves usually move their residence from one rock or hill to another.

On the Thirteenth night, January 6th,

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Icelandic names can be difficult to pronounce, spell and understand when being spoken, especially for someone that doesn’t know the language. Even though, Icelandic people are pretty laid back about many things, mainly because they live in a world where flexibility of plans is a crucial part of their survival, they take their names seriously. I will first start out with explaining the structure of Icelandic names, and then I will delve a bit deeper into the fascinating rules and unique cultural aspects of this system.

Structure of Icelandic Names In Iceland, a native person’s last name is usually a combination of their father’s first name and if they are his daughter or son. I say usually because this system is mostly patronymic. However, there are people whose last name is a combination of their mother’s first name and if they are her daughter or son.

For example, let’s say there is a woman named Guðrún who has a father with the first name Jón. Her name will be Guðrún Jónsdóttir, or literally Guðrún the daughter of Jón. If there is a man named Guðmundur and his father´s first name is Helgi, his name will be Guðmundur Helgason. Literally, his name is Guðmundur the son of Helgi. You might have noticed that the names Jón and Helgi changed a little bit when they became last names (Jónsdóttir and Helgason). This has to do with the structure of the Icelandic language and how words are declined depending on the grammatical case they are in.

Additionally, someone’s last name can be a combination of their parent’s middle name and their gender. Some Icelandic people prefer to be called by their middle name rather than their first name. In fact, an Icelander might decide that their middle fits the child’s name better when made into a last name. An Easy System to Learn While this system might confusing at first, the good news is that the learning curve for understanding this system is fairly easy. If you know an Icelandic person’s full name, you will know right away if they are male or female. This can be helpful, especially since some Icelandic first names are quite unique. For instance, it might be hard for a foreigner to know if someone named Guðbjörg is male or female. Just for the record, it is a female name. Random side note, I am curious to see how Iceland’s system adapts to individuals that do not conform to a gender, but I won’t be diving into that topic today. A Country (Mostly) Without Family Names Because an Icelandic person’s last name is dependent on one of their parent’s first names and their gender, there are mostly no family names. For example, a family of four that has two parents and two kids, one male and the other female, will all have different last names. In the following example, I will do my best to explain this. However, if it gets confusing, please check out the list of names for the family below.

Gunnar Guðmundsson is married to Katrín Einarsdóttir. They have two kids, a daughter named Guðný and a son named Björgvin. The parents have decided to take the traditional route and the kids last names will have the father’s first name. The full names of the kids are Guðný Gunnarsdóttir and Björgvin Gunnarsson. When you look at all of the names spelled out in a row, they are all different. Icelandic Family of 4 (Example)

Gunnar Guðmundsson Katrín Einardóttir Guðný Gunnarsdóttir Björgvin Gunnarsson

Of course, same sex siblings, such as brothers, will have the same last name in a family as long as they share the same father or mother whose first or middle name is being used for their last name.

Icelandic people do not see this system as strange. However, the majority of people from other countries are shocked to hear this fact. Finding this out made Iceland even more intriguing to me, and it might even do the same for you.

While the surname system that I mentioned to you is the most common in Iceland, there are some people that have family names. There are very few family names here.

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This week is a bit different than my normal episodes because I am going to share why I moved to Iceland. I get this question a lot, mainly because I was born and raised in NYC. People find it very difficult to understand why I would move to such a small country that averages relatively chilly temperatures and has a population of about 350,000 people. After sharing Ingólfur Arnarson’s story, the man who founded Reykjavík, I felt compelled to share my own. So, let’s just jump right into it.

Meeting Gunnar 12 Years Ago

I won’t go into all the details about how Gunnar and I’s relationship evolved because I have a video coming out on YouTube about it that will explain everything. For now, just know that we met through a mutual friend, Orri, who is Icelandic.

That was about twelve years ago but we didn’t becoming a couple until about five and a half years ago. We were in a long distance relationship for 3 years and the first time we lived together is when I moved to Iceland in 2016.

If someone had asked me if I would consider moving to Iceland before I started dating Gunnar, I would have flat out said no. I didn’t have anything against Iceland, but I just didn’t know anything about the place. I assumed that it would be more of a hassle to live there than it was worth. It’s funny how love has the ability to change your mind.

Adjusting to Life in Iceland

I started working the very next day after I arrived in Iceland. Because of that, I didn’t have a lot of time to think about my feelings regarding living in another country. I was so excited about my job opportunity and I wanted to do well so I mainly focused on that.

Funny enough, one of the hardest adjustments for me in the beginning was learning to live with another person. I lived on my own in a studio apartment in NYC for about 3 years before moving in with Gunnar in Iceland.

Of course, all of the cultural differences, such as the language and traditions were things I needed to adjust to. Thankfully, I had learned a lot about them during my visits to the country before I moved. Living here is so much different than visiting, but I experienced a lot less culture shock when I finally moved.

I do have to mention that I feel like marrying into an Icelandic family has given me an advantage when it comes to coping with living here. Many foreigners that move to Iceland but do not have ties an Icelandic family can feel quite lonely or left out. Icelandic people can be closed off when it comes to celebrating the holidays and other activities. They are very family orientated and most of the time their celebrations are just family members and very close friends of the family that are also Icelandic. Being included in the various activities made me feel like a part of the family immediately. That made living here an even more enjoyable experience.

Learning Icelandic

While I do understand a lot of Icelandic, I am continuously learning and working on my conversational skills. It is challenging, but it is also a lot of fun. Thankfully, there are a decent amount of resources online that are available. If you are interested in learning the language, here are some free resources that you can check out. I use a tutor at the moment, who is awesome. I highly recommend you considering to use a tutor or take classes if you want to learn the language in a systematic way.

Living in Iceland As a Person of Color

As many of you know, Iceland is predominantly made up of white people. No surprise there! However, some of you might not know that I am a Black woman. I am only mentioning this because a part of adjusting to life in Iceland for me has to deal with looking different than almost everyone else that lives here. To shine light on what it is like to live as a Black person in Iceland, I created a YouTube video with my friend Tabitha about the topic. Below is the video, if you would like to check it out.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?

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This is the 3rd and final part of my interview with Jón Gnarr, Iceland’s funniest and most famous Mayor. If you haven’t listened to part 1 and part 2 of this interview, I recommend that you do because Jón dives deep into why he ran for political office, Taosim, his experience as the Mayor and other fascinating things about his life.

During this episode, Jón shares his feelings about the current political landscape in Iceland, why he feels it is important to teach people about empathy, what he has been up to since running for office and his favorite Icelandic word or phrase. We also dipped into talking about education, creativity, religion, philosophy and empathy. In part 2, I taught you how to say the Mayor of Reykjavík, which is Borgarstjóri Reykjavíkur. This time around, Jón will share a pretty funny Icelandic word before the end of the episode. Jón's Book

Questions I Asked Jón During the Interview

What have you been up to since leaving your role as the Mayor of Reykjavík? How to do you feel about the political landscape in Iceland now? Would you ever consider running for political office again? You are active on some platforms on social media. Where can people connect with you or learn about what you are up to now? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me on social media platforms:

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I hope you enjoyed listening to my interview with Jón Gnarr. I release a new podcast episode every week. Make sure you are subscribed to the All Things Iceland podcast so you don’t miss new episodes. If the platform you are listening to this podcast on allows you to leave a review, please do so, if you haven’t already.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. I recommend these companies because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make, if you decide to buy something through my links. Please do not spend any money on these products unless you feel you need them or that they will help you achieve your goals.

Gnarr: How I Became the Mayor of a Large City in Iceland and Changed the World

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I had the pleasure of sitting down with Diðrik Stefánsson, a realtor in Reykjavík, to talk about the real estate market in Iceland. His nickname is Diddi and that is how I refer to him during the interview. This topic fascinates me for many reasons. The main one is that there is a lot of confusion and curiosity about the process of renting or buying in Iceland.

I decided to reach out to Diddi because he has been sharing his knowledge about the process on Facebook in groups that we are both a part of, including Americans (U.S. citizens) living in Iceland. I could tell that he is passionate about his job and about helping others who want to rent or buy in Iceland. When I reached out to him about being on the show, he was happy to participate.

Here Are The Questions I Asked Diddi About Icelandic Real Estate:

Why did you decide to start working in real estate, and how long have you been a realtor in Iceland?Iceland was riding high before the economic meltdown in 2008. What is the real estate market like now?What is the biggest challenge Icelanders face when looking for a place to buy or rent?Each year it seems that renting in Iceland keeps getting more expensive. Why is that?There is a lot of construction going on in Reykjavík. There are new apartment buildings, hotels, homes, and store fronts popping up. Do you think all of this is sustainable or do you think the housing bubble in Iceland will potentially burst?What is a surprising fact or facts about the real estate market in Iceland that people outside of Iceland wouldn’t know?What is the process like for non Icelandic and non EEA citizens to buy property in Iceland?What advice do you have for first time home buyers in Iceland (Icelandic and foreign)? What is your favorite property that you have rented or sold?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase (doesn’t have to be related to real estate but it can if you want)?If people have questions about renting or buying a home in Iceland and want to talk to you, how can they reach you?

Diddi's Contact Information

Email: diddi@fastlind.is

Phone Number: +354-647-8052

Facebook: Diðrik Stefánsson

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me on social media platforms:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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Now that some of the major Christmas events are over, Icelandic people are gearing up for the New Year. While I did talk about how amazing it is to celebrate the New Year in Iceland in episode 23, which is all about Icelandic Holidays, Traditions and Celebrations and episode 31, "16 Christmas Activities to in Reykjavík, Iceland", I still feel like the New Year's celebration in Iceland deserves an episode of its own. After all, it is one of the most joyous, noisy and fun nights of the year. Well, at least it is for me.

Go to a Community Bonfire

Most Icelandic people start out New Year’s eve with a gathering of friends and family for a lovely dinner. If you don’t have an Icelandic family to join, no worries because there are restaurants that are open that night. Because the word has gotten out that Reykjavík is the place to be to ring in the New Year, there are even tours now that take care of all of your logistics for that night. I haven’t gone on any so I can’t vouch for them. However, a quick google search of “New Year’s tours in Reykjavik” will bring up a lot of tour results.

After dinner, people head out around 8 or 9 to their community bonfire to enjoy the warmth from the crackling fire, chat with friends, some people are singing and many others are reflecting on the past year. It is such a cosy time. There are 18 places where bonfires will be in the Reykjavík area this year. Due to safety reasons, the use of fireworks near bonfires are forbidden. Just keep that in mind if you plan to buy some to set off during the night.

The Annual Comedy Show

After spending some time at their local bonfire, everyone hurries inside to watch Áramótaskaupið, or skaupið for short. It comes on TV promptly at 10:30 pm. This is a one hour sketch comedy show, similar to Saturday Night Live, that only happens on New Year's Eve.

Besides major Icelandic football matches, this is probably the most watched show in the country. The show is a comedic view of all of the major events that have happened in Iceland throughout the year. Unfortunately, scandals have become quite common in Iceland, so those are always made fun of during the show. There are also jokes about artists, well known business people, activists, crazy things that tourists do and any odd occurrences. If you have not been keeping up with the Icelandic news and if you do not understand Icelandic, you will be lost.

However, it is just an hour and you might find some of the situations funny, even if you can’t understand what is being said. Also, the majority of the country is watching the show, so it will be very quiet during that time. If you want to see it, you can view it online at ruv.is. You just click sjónvarpið, or on channel 1 if you have a television where you are staying. After the show, Icelandic people usually talk about whether is was good or bad this year. If you want to see a previous episode of the show, check out the video below.

https://youtu.be/GBiA6PQEIOQ

Time for Fireworks to Ring in the New Year in Iceland

Following the show, it is almost time for the clock to strike 12. After grabbing a drink or two, everyone gets their warm clothes back on. They head outside so they can be ready for the countdown. If you would like to set off your own fireworks, you can buy them from the Search and Rescue teams in Iceland. This is a volunteer led organization and the selling of fireworks is their biggest fundraiser of the year.

I know it sounds bizarre that the Search and Rescue Teams are selling something that is quite dangerous, but such is life in Iceland. They start to sell the fireworks on December 28th. Last year, there were 130 places around the country where you could buy fireworks. You will definitely be able to buy some if you would like to fire them off when the clock strikes midnight.

Where to Watch the Fireworks in Reykjavík

Many people, including lots of visitors in the country,

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During this week's episode, I give an overview of the rich history of Icelandic literature and culture. Before I jump in, I have two announcements.

Two Important Announcements

The first is that today, February 20th, 2019, is the last day for you to enter the All Things Iceland podcast giveaway. If you haven’t entered already, you can do so by clicking on the image that says the All Things Iceland podcast giveaway below. I will pick the winners at random tomorrow and contact them

The second announcement is that I am taking a little break from podcasting, but only for a little while. I get so much joy from doing this and I definitely plan on continuing to do it. One of the main reasons is that I am taking a pause is because I will be traveling for about 2 months.

It will be difficult to find the space and time to record, edit and publish weekly episodes. During that time, I will have some vacation time, my mother will have surgery, and I will start a new job. The show will restart again on April 24th, 2019. I know it sounds like a long time away but time passes by so quickly. It is hard to believe that I have been doing this podcast weekly for the past 8 months! Also, I have been reading your survey results and I am so excited to create shows and conduct interviews based off of your suggestions.

Ok, now let’s jump back into to the topic of Iceland’s literary culture.

Icelandic Sagas - The Beginning of Icelandic Literature History

Icelandic literature is just as unique as its language, which I talked about in episode two of this show. I’ll start out with lcelandic literature from Medieval times and end with the modern day literary environment in the country.

As I have mentioned in previous episodes, the sagas, which were written between the 9th and 13th centuries, are the most revered pieces of Icelandic literature. They were written in Old Norse tell tales of the people that migrated to Iceland, Viking voyages to unknown lands and the history of settlers. The sagas have withstood the test of time. They have been inspirational sources for shows, movies, plays and books that depict life in Scandinavia during those times.

Njáls Saga

For instance, Njáls Saga, which takes places between 960 and 1020, is full of drama. There is betrayal, murder, ongoing feuds, omens and prophetic dreams. It is teeming with excitement. It also gives insight into the culture during that time. While all of the sagas are fascinating, I specifically point out this one because its Iceland’s longest and most developed saga. If you want to check it out, I have a link to the saga database that has free versions of the popular sages in Icelandic and English.

https://www.amazon.com/Njals-Saga-Penguin-Classics/dp/0140447695/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

While it hasn’t been confirmed, there is a theory that the sagas served as a way of hiding and preserving the view of pagans, which was threatened by the onslaught of Christianity in the country

Most of the authors of the sagas are unknown, but they are thought to be somewhat true accounts that were passed on orally until they were written down. Some people theorize that women might have been some of the authors. However, there is no evidence to support that. Plus, all of the known saga writers are male.

However, many poetry verse stanzas are attributed to Icelandic and Norwegian women, such as Gunnhildr konungamóðir, and Þórhildr skáldkona.

Icelandic Eddaic & Skaldic Poetry

Eddaic and skaldic poetry were also written during medieval times. These types of Icelandic literature helped to influence the country's appreciation of poetry. The main difference between the two types of poetry is that skaldic refers to poetry written by Norwegian and Icelandic poets, who known as skalds. While the Eddas mentioned mythical events or told stories, skaldic poetry was used to honor nobles or kings, as well as to commemorate or satirize important e...

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As I have mentioned in previous episodes, literature plays a big role in Icelandic society. Halldór’s nobel prize for his literature about Icelandic society is something that Icelandic people are very proud of.

He was born in Reykjavík in 1902 and his parents moved to the Laxnes farm near Mosfellsdalur when Halldór was three. His birth name was Halldór Guðjónsson but he changed it later on in life. In his own memoirs, he describes himself as an odd child. He learned to read and write at an early age, and spent a lot of time scribbling away in his notebook. From 1915 to 1916, he attended a technical school in Reykjavík and had his first article published in Morgunblaðið, a local newspaper, when he was 14 years old. By the age of 17, Halldór had already published his first book “Barn náttúrunnar”. He also had traveled abroad to other countries in Europe.

Laxness Converts to Catholicism

Surprisingly, he joined a Benedictine monastery in Luxembourg in 1922. Halldór was baptized and confirmed Catholic in 1923. After being confirmed, he took on the last name Laxness, after the farm that he grew up on in Reykjavík. He also took on the name Kiljan, which is the Icelandic version of the name Irish martyr Saint Killian.

In episode 29, which is right before this, I talk about Iceland’s unique and strict naming system. Very few people in Iceland have family names and Laxness is one of them.

During his stay at the monastery, Halldór read lots of books and studied French, Latin, theology and philosophy. He also joined a group in the monastery that prayed for the reversion of Nordic countries back to Catholicism. He wrote about his experiences during that time in the books Undir Helgahnúk and Vefarinn mikli frá Kasmir (The Great Weaver from Kashmir). The Icelandic critic Kristján Albertsson gave Halldór’s “The Great Weaver from Kashmir” a great review. He said the following about the novel that had been published in 1927,

"Finally, finally, a grand novel which towers like a cliff above the flatland of contemporary Icelandic poetry and fiction! Iceland has gained a new literary giant - it is our duty to celebrate the fact with joy!"Kristján Albertsson

Socialism

Laxness lived in the United States from 1927 until 1929. During this time, he gave lectures on Iceland and even tried to write screenplays for Hollywood films. The most significant shift during his time in the U.S. is that he stopped being religious and became a socialist. He says that he,

"...did not become a socialist in America from studying manuals of socialism but from watching the starving unemployed in the parks."Halldór Laxness

His book Alþýðubókin or The Book of the People, which he published in 1929, was based on the fundamental ideas of socialism and Icelandic individuality. During that same year, Laxness found himself in hot water with the United States.. He published an article in Heimskringla, a Canadian newspaper, that criticized the United States. The U.S. was not amused and charges were filed against him. Laxness was detained and his passport was confiscated. Thankfully, the author Upton Sinclair and the law group ACLU came to his aid. They were able to get the charges dropped and Halldór was able to return to Iceland later that year.

The 1930’s

The shift in Halldór from the 1920s to the 1930s was quite drastic. He went from almost becoming a monk in the early 1920s to harshly attacking the Christian spiritualism of Einar Hjörleifsson Kvaran, an influential Icelandic writer who had been considered for the Nobel prize. It seems socialist ideas really resonated with the younger generations in Iceland and Laxness was at the forefront of expressing these principles at the time.

His novel Salka Valka, which was published in 1931, was the beginning of his sociological novels that he wrote over the next 20 years. The novels written and published during that time are considered the greatest period of his career.

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This is the third and final part of my interview with Iceland's youngest President of City Council, Dóra Björt Guðjónsdóttir. If you haven’t listened to part 1 and part 2 yet, I highly recommend that you do. Dóra shines a spotlight on the political scandals, deep seated beliefs and opportunities for positive change in Iceland during those parts.

During this episode, Dóra shares why she became a member of the pirate party, her views on information freedom, the responsibility of politicians to make positive change, the personal political initiatives that she would like to see implemented in Iceland and her favorite Icelandic phrase.

Before the interview starts, I have to include a disclaimer. At the very end of this episode, Dóra uses curse words for her favorite Icelandic phrase. Cursing is not a normal part of this podcast but her phrase ties in perfectly with the reaction to the financial meltdown in Iceland, so it I feel it is appropriate to include it. The Questions I Asked Reykjavík’s Youngest President of City Council

What attracted you to the pirate party in Iceland? Do you have any political initiatives or policies that you would personally like to see implemented in Iceland? How do you keep up with fighting for all of the issues you keep close to your heart when it seems to always be an uphill battle? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase (It can be related to politics but it doesn’t have to be)?

Connect with Dóra

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I hope you enjoyed listening to part 3 of this interview. I release a new podcast episode every week. Make sure you are subscribed to the All Things Iceland podcast so you don’t miss new episodes. If the platform you are listening to this podcast on allows you to leave a review, please do so, if you haven’t already.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega (Thank you kindly for listening (and reading) and see you soon!

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My love of delicious beer and curiosity about Iceland blended together perfectly when I sat down to chat with Óli, the brewmaster at Ægisgarður brewery. While there are bigger and well known breweries in Iceland, I was drawn to Ægisgarður for a few reasons. The first is that I got married in that brewery in 2017 and I had the pleasure of attending a beer tasting earlier in the spring of this year. Óli conducted the beer tasting and dropped some major knowledge about Iceland’s complicated history with beer and other types of alcohol. After that, I just knew that I needed to chat with him about his role as brewmaster, the complicated history that I mentioned, and how the beer culture has evolved in Iceland.

The Questions I Asked Ólafur About Icelandic Beer History & Culture

Iceland has a complicated history with beer and other types of alcohol, can you talk a little bit about that history? How has the beer culture evolved? When did you first become interested in brewing beer? What is your favorite type of beer? What is the weirdest brewing combination that you have created or tasted? Is there any type of beer that Icelandic people seem to drink the most? Today, there are a decent amount of small craft breweries in Iceland and the variety of beers is amazing. When did the small craft brewery scene take off here? Do you think it will continue to grow? Why do you think beer and other types of alcohol are so heavily taxed in Iceland? If there was only one Icelandic beer you could recommend that people taste, what would that be? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Visit or Contact Ægisgarður Brewery

Website Facebook Email - info@aegisgardur.is

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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How the Icelandic Language Came to Be The history of the Icelandic language dates all the way back to the 9th century, when settlers, mostly from Norway, came to live in Iceland. What was spoken at that time was Old Norse and this eventually evolved into Old Icelandic. Like many cultures, the language was passed on through spoken word before being preserved in the form of text. Impressively, the oldest preserved text in Icelandic was written around 1100.

If you are interested in being able to read Old Norse and Old Icelandic, check out the interview I did with Jesse Byock, a professor of Old Norse and Medieval Scandinavian Studies at UCLA and Háskóli Íslands. He wrote a Viking Language book series that teaches you how to read those languages.

Dr. Jesse Byock

During the 12th century and onward, is when the famous sagas and eddas (poems) were written in Old Icelandic. Being an isolated island in the middle of the Atlantic, worked in favor of Icelandic when it came to preserving the language. Even though, Icelandic is a Germanic language that was birthed from Old Norse, its incremental amount of evolution over many centuries resulted in it becoming a completely separate language from modern day Norwegian and other Scandinavian languages.

It is remarkable that even under Danish rule for more than 500 years (1380 to 1918), the Icelandic language did not change. Danish was learned by many but Icelandic was still used for official communication. Another fascinating tidbit of information is that there is an absence of dialects as you travel from one region of the country to the next. Some of my colleagues have mentioned that some words are said slightly different in the north than in the south but the language is pretty uniform around the country.

www.islandskort.is

Because the Icelandic language has changed so little since the 1300s, modern Icelanders have the privilege of being able to read and understand the ancient text of their ancestors that was written 800 years ago. Even though the text has not changed that much, how the language sounds has changed over time. I’ve heard that a modern Icelandic speaker who is reading Old Icelandic is comparable to a modern English speaker reading Shakespeare. Icelandic Grammar Like some other Indo-European languages, Icelandic grammar is complicated. When a language learner is first introduced to the grammar, it seems like a daunting task to take on. I am still learning it and there are many days when the grammar structure trips me up. For starters, nouns, pronouns and adjectives are inflected in four cases (nominative, accusative, dative and genitive) and they can be in either singular or plural form. Nouns are also categorized into genders: masculine, feminine or neuter. Verbs can be in the indicative, imperative, conditional or subjunctive mood.

As you can already tell, the language can become very complicated to speak and process quickly, if you have never been exposed to it before. For the sake of time, I won’t go much deeper into this topic because it deserves its own series of podcast episodes to explain it properly. For those of you that have interest in learning the language, you can dip your toe in the pool by learning how to speak with an Icelandic accent. ;-)

Efforts to Preserve the Language While Iceland’s archaic language might seem odd to many foreigners, Icelandic people are very proud of their language and they don’t seem interested in changing it. In fact, there is an official committee at the Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies whose job is to plan and preserve the language. The evolution of technology and increased exposure to other languages has posed some challenges for the language. The committee has found some clever ways to include words that didn’t exist in the language before. One example is that they will take existing Icelandic words and combine them to create new words. The Icelandic Word of the Episode

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I had the pleasure of interviewing Jón Gnarr, Iceland’s most famous and funniest Mayor. Jón became Mayor of Reykjavík not long after Iceland’s economic crash in 2008. His victory was just as shocking to him as it was to many others in the country and around the world.

He was kind enough to host me at his home in Iceland for this interview. We chatted for almost three hours about a variety of topics. In part one, you will hear about why he ran for political office, his feelings about the welfare of polar bears, what surprised him about being Mayor and more.

Because we were at his home, there is some background noise from his 10 month old dog Klakki, who was eating a bone. I apologize in advance for the intermittent crackling noises. Additionally, at some point during the interview his youngest son Nonnie comes home and Jón has him tell me about the time that he met Lindsay Lohan, and he gives us bread that he baked at school. I ended up cutting that part out but it was a cute story and nice to have some fresh baked bread. Needless to say, meeting Jón Gnarr and conducting this interview was fun and included some unexpected events. Jón Gnarr's book

Questions I asked Jón Gnarr during Part One of the Interview

What motivated you to run for Mayor of Reykjavík? You openly said that you intended to break all of your promises once elected, which is hilarious. However, if you could have fulfilled one of your campaign promises, which one would you choose? When you were running for Mayor did you believe that you could win or was it a kind of a hail mary pass? What most surprised you about your the job as Mayor? What are you most proud of during your tenure as Mayor? Do you feel that being a comedian prepared you for being Mayor?

Jón dressed in drag

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me on social media platforms:

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I hope you enjoyed listening to this interview with Jón Gnarr. I release a new podcast episode every week. Make sure you are subscribed to the All Things Iceland podcast so you don’t miss new episodes. If the platform you are listening to this podcast on allows you to leave a review, please do so, if you haven’t already.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. I recommend these companies because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something through my links. Please do not spend any money on these products unless you feel you need them or that they will help you achieve your goals.

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This is the second of a three part interview that I did with Jón Gnarr, Iceland’s funniest and most famous Mayor of Reykjavík. If you haven’t listened to part 1 of this interview, I highly recommend that you do. Jón shares why he decided to run for political office, his concern about polar bears and more. Plus, it will provide context for some of what we discuss in this episode. For part 2, Jón and I have a fascinating philosophical discussion. I learn about the profound impact that Taoism, surrealism and judo have had on his life and more about his time in political office as the Mayor.

Lastly, I shared the word klakki, which means ice, in the last episode. This time around I thought it might be helpful to teach you how to say Mayor of Reykjavík, which is Borgarstjóri (city boss) Reykjavíkur. Jón Gnarr's Book

Some of the questions I asked Jón

I have read the Tao Te Ching many times and it was a pleasant surprise to hear that you have your own interpretation of the book’s core principle wu wei (doing not doing). When did you start to embody this principle and was it difficult to practice while in office? On the surface, the Best party came across as a big joke but I’ve heard that your intention was to make democracy more fun and enjoyable in order to get people more involved. What fun things did you do to encourage people to participate more?

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I hope you enjoyed listening to part 2 of my interview with Jón Gnarr. I release a new podcast episode every week. Make sure you are subscribed to the All Things Iceland podcast so you don’t miss Part 3 next week. If the platform you are listening to this podcast on allows you to leave a review, please do so, if you haven’t already.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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As I mentioned in part one of the "6 Reasons Why Iceland is so Popular" episode, this amazing country has many reasons for why people are flocking to it. In this episode, I share my final three out of six reasons. Make sure you check out the first three reasons I shared in the last episode of the All Things Iceland podcast.

Iceland is a Convenient Place To Catch a Connecting Flight If you are traveling from North America to mainland Europe and vice versa, Iceland is in the middle of those places, which makes it a very convenient place for airline companies to stop and refuel, as well as offer connecting flights to many destinations. Iceland, as a hub for connecting to other flights, has made travel to many places more accessible to people. Even though connecting via Iceland's Keflavík airport has been used by travelers for over 50 years, it is only in the last 20 years that Iceland has experienced many travelers leaving the airport to explore the country. Up until the 1980s, the number of tourists to Iceland did not exceed 80,000 people in a single year. In fact, the travels of Icelandic people usually exceeded the number of tourists back then.

Keflavík Airport by WhatsOn

It wasn’t until the 2000s that the number of tourists began to increase. In the early 2000s, Iceland received around 300,000 visitors, which was more than the number of people living on the island! By 2016, that number had sharply risen to almost 1.8 million foreign visitors.

of Tourist to Iceland vs Icelandic Population

Iceland is still a great place for planes to stop and refuel, and it is used by many airlines that want to have connecting flights for their customers. However, it is now a must-see destination, and foreigners are more than happy to leave the airport and discover the country's unique features. Iceland is so popular because it has been made easy for people to visit. 5. Movies and shows filmed in Iceland The amount of movies and shows filmed in Iceland is astonishing. I might be stretching it here, but I believe that most people that live in the Western world, and who actively go to the movie theater and/or watch television, have watched at least one of the films listed below:

Batman Begins Die Another Day Fast & Furious 8 Flags of Our Fathers Interstellar Judge Dredd Lara Croft: Tomb Raider Letters from Iwo Jima Noah Oblivion Prometheus Star Trek into Darkness The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

This is not an exhaustive list of all of the films that have been shot in Iceland but it gives you a taste of major motion pictures that have captured footage in Iceland's diverse and remarkable nature.

The stunning scenery showcased in these films has inspired people to visit. Plus, who wouldn't want to go to a destination that feels like you have been transported to outer space? 6. Iceland is so popular because of Strategic Marketing

The promotion of Iceland as a destination has been infused with creativity, humor and a lot of strategic planning. According to the Promote Iceland Act, “the objective of the act is to strengthen Iceland’s image and reputation, enhance the competitive position of the Icelandic undertakings on foreign markets and to attract foreign investment and tourists to the country.” While that is a boring statement, how the country has gone about creating ways of attracting investments and visitors is far from a snore fest.

Photo - Inspired by Iceland

Inspired by Iceland is the official marketing arm for the country as a destination. They developed their building blocks for marketing and that serves as the guiding light for how they present the country to the world. In the PDF of their building blocks, the first line on the list of what they want to keep in mind when they promote the country is, “Iceland is not for everyone!” So many countries want to market to everyone but when they do that, it can be so easy for them to lose focus on what they ...

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Besides the Reykjavík area, the South Coast of Iceland is by far the most popular part of the country that is featured on social media, blogs and in one of Justin Bieber’s music videos. People from around the world are flocking there in droves. According to the Icelandic Tourism Board’s statistics for 2017, during the winter 55% of the travelers that come to Iceland traveled to the South and in the summer, a whopping 71% of travelers to the country went to that region. It is without a doubt a very popular place but it might make one wonder, “Is it really worth the hype?”

Before answering that, let’s start off with what you can see and do along the South Coast of Iceland. Because this area does have a variety of attractions and stunning nature, I have split everything up into three categories. I will start off with talking about historical sites and the most popular places to visit. Following that, will be the type of wildlife and nature you can find in this region. Lastly, I will go over the fun activities that are available for you to do along the South Coast. Historical Sites & Most Popular Places to Visit 1. Þingvellir National Park Þingvellir

Þingvellir is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is popular for many reasons. The first and most important reason is due to its historical significance in Icelandic society. The general assembly for Parliament, or Alþing in Icelandic, was established here around 930 and continued to meet there until 1798. The parliament members would discuss and decide on laws, as well as pass judgements on any matters brought before them.

The Logberg or Law Rock is where public speaking events took place. The unique geology in the area created a natural amphitheater for such speaking events. Along with learning about history and being able to see where Icelandic people’s ancestors used to meet, you can witness the Mid-Atlantic ridge. This ridge is where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates are slowly separating at a rate of two centimeters per year. The separation has created a rift valley, which means that you can walk between two continents.

Churches Along the South Coast

Even though less than 10% of Icelandic population goes to church each month, there are many churches in the country. In fact, there are 19 churches that can be found along the South Coast of Iceland, if you exclude the ones in the Reykjavík area. Many of these churches have a similar style that makes them easy to spot. Just look for a steeple with a cross on top that is attached to a large room that is used for the congregation to meet in.

On a map, you will always know how to find a church because the word kirkja will be at the end. Kirkja means church. Some of the churches that get a decent amount of visitors are the ones in Selfoss, Þingvellir, Strandar and Höfn. The church in Höfn is especially interesting because it has a turf roof and was built in 1884! See the full list of churches along the South Coast of Iceland here.

Church with a turf roof 3. Museums & Cultural Centers Icelandic people are very proud of their culture and the nature that surrounds them. In total, there are 15 museums and cultural centers the region. My favorite is the LAVA center, which is a very cool interactive museum about Icelandic volcanoes. It is for all ages and I have been there twice. You can find museums and cultural centers along the South Coast of Iceland that feature exhibitions on the Icelandic sagas, art and even Bobby Fischer. 4. The Golden Circle This is one of the most popular routes that many tourists that visit the South Coast of Iceland take. It is made up of Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir hot spring and Þingvellir National Park. This trifecta gives you a taste of Iceland magnificent natural wonders. 5. Vík Vík is a tiny town of less than 300 people in the southernmost village in Iceland. It attracts 41.5% of travelers in the winter and 56.6% of travelers in the summer.

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I was fortunate to have the opportunity to chat with Alda Sigmundsdóttir, an Icelandic author and journalist that has her thumb on the pulse of Icelandic society. Even though Alda was born in Iceland, she grew up in Canada and lived in a few different countries. The insight that she shared with me about Iceland and its people was enlightening and sometimes surprising. We had such a great time chatting, that we ended up talking for an hour. In order to keep these episodes relatively short, I have broken this interview up into two parts. During this episode, which is part 1, you will hear about the challenges Alda faced when she moved back to Iceland, how insular Icelandic society is, how she decides what to write about, what the most important thing tourists should keep in mind when they visit Iceland and what Icelandic people really think of visitors to their country.

Questions I asked Alda during this interview:

Even though you were born in Iceland, you lived in Canada and some other countries for many years. What was it like moving back to Iceland? The topics of your books include giving advice to visitors of Iceland, gripping fiction, mythology, culture and issues in Icelandic society. With so many changes happening in Iceland, how do you decide what to write about? It has been a little over a year since you published “The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland: Tips, tricks and what Icelanders really think of you.” What do you think are still the most important things tourists should keep in mind when they visit Iceland? Have Icelandic people’s views about tourists changed since writing that book?

Alda's Books Mentioned in the Interview: The Little Book of the Icelanders: 50 Miniature Essays on the Quirks and Foibles of the Icelandic People

The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland: Tips, tricks, and What the Icelanders Really Think of You

Living Inside the Meltdown: Ten People Share Their Experience of the Icelandic Economic Collapse

Connect with Alda Sigmundsdóttir: Alda's website

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I hope you enjoyed listening to part 1 of this interview. Part 2 will be released next week, so make sure you are subscribed to the All Things Iceland podcast so you don’t miss it. If the platform you are listening to this podcast on allows you to leave a review, please do so, if you haven’t already.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega (Thank you kindly for listening and see you soon)!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. I recommend these companies because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something through my links. Please do not spend any money on these products unless you feel you need them or that they will help you achieve your goals.

Living Inside the Meltdown: Ten people share their experience of the Icelandic economic collapse

The Little Book of the Icelanders: 50 miniature essays on the quirks and foibles of the Icelandic people

The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland: Tips, tricks, and what the Icelanders really think of you

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Aldís Amah Hamilton, who is half African American and half Icelandic, shares what it is like living in Iceland as a person of color. Aldís and her friend were the first people of color in the country to be admitted to and graduate from the country’s National Academy of Theater. She is a working actor and flight attendant in Iceland. It was fascinating to chat with her about her experience growing up with physical features that are different than what you typically associate with being Icelandic.

Aldís was so pleasant to chat with. Even though this was my first time meeting her, the conversation flowed like two friends just chatting about life. At the end, she shares a few funny Icelandic idioms, so stay tuned to hear them.

Here is the winter episode that I mentioned in the introduction of the podcast. The Questions I Asked Aldís Amah

You are half African American and half Icelandic, what has it been like growing up as a person of mixed race in Iceland? Have you ever encountered racism in Iceland or someone treating you differently because of your skin color? As a flight attendant for an Icelandic airline, you encounter a lot of people. Are people surprised to hear that you are Icelandic? Do you feel like Icelandic society accepts people of mixed race who have grown up in the country as Icelanders or are they still considered as “other”? What do you feel is the biggest challenge for a mixed race child growing up in Iceland? What has your experience been like as an actor in Iceland? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase?

Let’s be social! Here is where you can connect with me on social media platforms:

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega

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

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Iceland is home to 130 volcanoes and as of today, 30 of them are active. While the country has experienced 13 eruptions since it was settled in AD 874, none has been as devastating as the Laki eruption that started in 1783 and lasted for 8 months! During this episode of the All Things Iceland podcast, you will learn about the effects this massive eruption had on Iceland and other parts of the world.

Where the Laki Volcano is Located If we are being technical, the mountain Laki did not erupt. Instead, fissures opened up on each side of it after groundwater interacted with rising basalt magma. The fissure is called Lakagígar, part of the volcanic system that centers on Grímsvötn volcano. For the sake of simplicity, I will say Laki instead of Lakagígar and eruption when referring to the fissure releasing gas and lava.

For starters, I think it would be helpful to give you an idea of where the eruption took place. This volcanic fissure lies along the south of Iceland near to the magnificent Eldgjá. This word directly translates to the Canyon of Fire. Kirkjubæjarklaustur, a small village that most people have probably fumbled over trying to pronounce, is very close to Eldgjá.

Laki's Devastating Effect on Iceland From June 8th, 1783 until February 7th, 1784, the Laki fissure and Grímsvötn volcano poured out toxins. An estimated 42 billion tons of basalt lava, as well as poisonous hydrofluoric acid and sulfur dioxide were released into the soil and air. The lava flow destroyed 20 villages. The soil contamination led to the death of over 80% of sheep, 50% of cattle and 50% of horses in Iceland. The 8 million tons of hydrogen fluoride that was released caused dental and skeletal fluorosis in the animals. Most of the crops were wiped out as well. The loss of crops and livestock resulted in a famine that killed about 25% of the Icelandic population.

The quote below is an excerpt from the book, Fires of the Earth: the Laki eruption, 1783–1784. It gives a very vivid depiction of what happened to the livestock and villages during this eruption. “This past week, and the two prior to it, more poison fell from the sky than words can describe: ash, volcanic hairs, rain full of sulfur and saltpeter, all of it mixed with sand. The snouts, nostrils, and feet of livestock grazing or walking on the grass turned bright yellow and raw. All water went tepid and light blue in color and gravel slides turned gray. All the earth's plants burned, withered and turned gray, one after another, as the fire increased and neared the settlements.[13]”

Surprising Effects in Asia & Africa The effects in Iceland were no doubt devastating, but it was not the only place the suffered. Scientists have found evidence that the eruption weakened Indian and African monsoon circulations. This resulted in between one to three millimeters less daily precipitation than normal in the north east and north west regions in Africa. Less rain meant a low flow in the Nile river. Egypt ended up experiencing a famine in 1784 that killed 1/6th of its population. The Effect of the Laki Eruption in Europe & North America

The outpouring of millions of tons of hydrogen fluoride and sulfur dioxide became known as the Laki haze across Europe. The thick haze from the 120 million tons of sulfur dioxide that was emitted resulted in thousands of deaths. Inhaling this poisonous gas causes you to choke as your soft tissue starts to swell.

The summer of 1783 was very hot and the winter brought extreme frost in Great Britain. They estimated losing 23,000 British people due to the poison. During the spring of 1784, Germany and Central Europe reported severe flood damage after regions thawed following the blistering cold winter. Even many years after the eruption, Europe was feeling the effects. The Laki eruption has been linked to the French Revolution in 1789. It is believed that the poisonous gas caused droughts, bad winters and bad summers during the years following its eruption....

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Iceland is popular now but before 2010, hardly anyone came to see this spectacular place. It is fascinating now that you can't find a "must-see" destination list without this amazing country being featured. While there are many reasons why this small, island nation located in the Atlantic ocean is so popular, I am sharing my top six. I split this list into two parts to keep the episodes relatively short. Also, the list is in no particular order because I believe that each of the reasons that I share continue to have a major impact on the country's popularity. Below are three out of six.

Nature in Iceland Craters from a volcano

I can wax poetic about the diverse and beautiful landscape of Iceland all day. It really is an enchanting place that will surprise and delight you. I like to this of this country as a foreign planet because it is so unlike anywhere else on earth. The dark, long winters are a wonderland of snow and ice. Powerful wind storms during this time of the year show you just how intense mother nature can be in this country; and, if you are lucky, you might even get a delightful Northern Lights show. During the summer, everything springs to life and you can enjoy 24 hours of day light for a few months. This land of contrasts gives you ample opportunity to enjoy loads of activities in each season.

Some of the most notable natural wonders in Iceland are bubbling hot springs, numerous glaciers, active volcanoes, stunning lava rock, black sand beaches, colorful mountains that can be seen in the highlands, vibrant green moss as far as the eye can see, iceberg filled glacier lagoons, countless waterfalls, and remote wilderness. The power of Icelandic nature usually just affects people who live on the island or those that are visiting. However, in 2010, Eyjafjallajökull, an active volcano, erupted. Strong winds pushed the ash from the volcano into the direction of major flight routes, which interrupted airline travel for people around the world. It is funny that this eruption is why kicked off the tourism boom. Iceland is popular now because people were so curious to know more about this tiny island that could disrupt the whole airline industry.

Sheep in Iceland photo by Topich

On the land and in the sea surrounding the island, live fascinating animals. If you drive on the ring road (the main one that goes around the country) during the summer, you will come across free roaming sheep and lamb. They outnumber the Icelandic population two to one! You are also likely to spot majestic Icelandic horses grazing or galloping in open fields. The cunning arctic fox can be found throughout Iceland, but the largest population of them can be found in the West fjords. If you are wiling to head into very remote regions in the east, you might spot a reindeer.

About 370 bird species can be found in the country but their presence and whereabouts depends on their breeding habits and season. The adorable Puffin is a popular bird that many people flock to see in Iceland (pun intended ;-)), but it is only possible to seem them between May and August, when they are breeding. Luckily, you can see these fascinating birds in different parts of the country. I've had the privilege of viewing Puffins up close in the West Fjords. So cute!

Puffin in Iceland - photo by pascal-mauerhofer

In the vast sea surrounding the island, various whale species and seals have been spotted. Summer time is your best bet for whale watching, so just keep that in mind when you plan to visit.

The country's nature and animals have been popular among nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts circles for decades. Over the last few years, the internet, specifically blogs and social media have helped to spread the word about just how amazing nature is in the land of fire and ice. 2. Icelandic People are a Big Part of Why Iceland is Popular Icelandic people in 1927

Many people think of Iceland as the land of the Vikings.

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During this episode of All Things Iceland, I give you the low down on what you can expect during an Icelandic winter. While long, dark winter nights can sound awful, you can easily survive it by knowing what to expect and by using some of the coping mechanisms I share in this episode.

How long is an Icelandic winter? According to the Old Norse calendar, which was split up into two seasons (winter and summer), winter in Iceland is 26 weeks long. The first day of summer is the first Thursday after April 18th every year, which I feel like is a long running joke in Iceland because the weather that day is usually not "summery". Icelandic winter starts on the Saturday that falls between October 21st and 27th. I am putting together an episode about the Old Norse calendar because it is so fascinating, but for right now, just know that the end of October signals to people in Iceland that winter has arrived. The days get darker much faster around this time.

In fact, we get about 9 hours of daylight around the first day of winter. Daylight just rapidly decreases from there. Check out the yearly sun graph of Iceland. It is fascinating to see the drastic difference in daylight during an Icelandic winter and summer. While it is true is that winter is long in Iceland, I think it is worth mentioning that it is not an endless span of long, dark, super cold and dreary days. However, there are days like that but they can vary. What is the weather like during winter in Iceland? The country lucked out with its geographical position in the world. According to Iceland’s meteorological office, “Iceland enjoys a much milder climate than its name and location adjacent to the Arctic circle would imply. A branch of the Gulf Stream flows along the southern and the western coast greatly moderating the climate. However, this brings mild Atlantic air in contact with colder Arctic air resulting in a climate that is marked by frequent changes in weather and storminess. Furthermore, this leads to more rainfall in the southern and western part than in the northern part of the island.”

Yes, you will find ice and snow in Iceland during the winter. About 10% of the country is covered in ice and during the winter, the sidewalks in the Reykjavík area can be very icy. Some people wear micro spikes on their shoes because you can easily injure yourself if you slip and fall on the ice. It is unfortunate that micro spikes are usually thought of as things that older people wear here but that is the perception. If you are visiting, I think it is worth it to bring some with you. Better to be safe than sorry.

Snow during the winter in Iceland is welcomed, not only because it is pretty but because it lightens up the dark nights. It is interesting to see how much brighter it is outside when there is snow on the ground. Even though, there can be a decent amount of ice on the ground, the majority of the country rarely gets hit with super frigid temperatures. I know that seems weird, especially since the country’s name is Iceland. The average temperature in Reykjavík, during an Icelandic winter is 0 degrees Celsius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit. That is pretty mild, considering that Greenland is a our neighbor.

However, Iceland really is the land of extremes. While you have 24 hour brightness in the summer, Icelandic winter days are quite short. On the shortest day of the year, December 21st or the winter solstice, we get 4 hours and 7 minutes of daylight! Sometimes you don’t see the sun for days because of clouds or storms, especially when the days are at their shortest in December and January. Thankfully, December is full of holiday celebrations.

While the sky might be dark, there are lights decorating people’s houses and lots of excitement about Christmas and the upcoming New Year. The other upside to long, dark nights is that you have much better chances of seeing the Northern Lights. This natural phenomenon is caused by collisions between electrically charged pa...

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When does summer in Iceland start? While most Icelandic people agree that the weather is more "summery" in June, the beginning of summer in Iceland is officially celebrated on the first Thursday after April 18th. In Icelandic, this day is called Sumardagurinn Fyrsti and it is an official holiday. The ironic part is that, historically, the weather is not very good on that day. If you had the opportunity to listen to Episode 5 of the All Things Iceland podcast, which is titled - What is Winter Like in Iceland?, you would have heard me mention that the winter and summer season start and end dates are according to the Old Norse calendar. If you haven’t listened to that episode yet, I recommend checking it out. It is amazing how different these two seasons are.

If you only use the Old Norse calendar as your reference for the length of the summer season, it will amount to being about 26 weeks long. It would be awesome if that were true but the reality is that the long, bright days and warmer weather only lasts about 3 months (June, July & August). It is important to point out that this country is known for its unstable weather. Summer in Iceland can vary from being rainy, windy and chilly to clear skies, relatively warm and not very windy. If you get a clear day, with sunshine and little to no wind in Iceland, it is like hitting the weather jackpot. The majority of Icelandic people take advantage of days like that by doing some kind of outdoor activity because it would be a shame to miss out on such awesome weather.

What is summer in Iceland like? When visiting Iceland between June and August, you could theoretically experience a temperature change from a low of 6 degrees Celsius (44 degrees Fahrenheit) to a high of 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). However, the temperature rarely gets that high. Realistically, you can expect a range of 10 - 13 degrees Celsius (50 - 55 degrees Fahrenheit) as a high during the day. For most people, this temperature range is nowhere near the summer temperatures in their home country, but such is life in Iceland.

If you plan to visit during this time period, the best advice I have for enjoying summer in Iceland is to embrace unpredictability and pack lots of layers! Waterproof, or at least water resistant, clothing will be your best friend here. Using an umbrella in this country is like wearing a big, red sign on your back that says you're a tourist. Icelandic winds tend to blow the rain in a horizontal direction and on many days, the wind speed will break your umbrella like a twig. Save yourself the trouble of trying to wrestle an umbrella in the wind and stick with clothes designed to keep you dry. Activities to do in Iceland during the Summer

If you enjoy being out in nature at all hours of the day, summer in Iceland is the perfect time for you to visit. There are a plethora of activities that you can do during the height of the day or during the midnight sun. Some of the most popular activities are hiking, glacier walks, partying, cycling, road trips, whale watching, bird watching, horseback riding, driving a 4x4, going to a music festival, going to the local pool or nearby hot spring, camping and driving on rugged mountain roads in a super jeep. You can find a lot more activities with a quick search online.

When I first experienced the midnight sun on my second visit to Iceland, I felt as if I could stay awake forever. I visited during the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, and it was magical. However, the nonstop brightness confused my brain, and I kept thinking that I could easily stay up and do more activities. I eventually crashed, but I only slept for a few hours at a time. While it is fun to feel like the day is never going to end, the downside is that most people in Iceland still have to go to work and keep some kind of schedule during the week. You might be asking yourself, "How does one cope with 24 hour brightness?"

Some people,

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During part 2 of the interview that I did with Dóra Björt Guðjónsdóttir, Iceland’s youngest President of the Reykjavík City Council, she reveals even more details about Icelandic society that are unknown to the outside world. If you haven’t listened to part 1 yet, I highly recommend that you do because Dóra shares some insightful information about Icelandic politics and society.

In this episode, Dóra talks more about Iceland’s aggressive discussion culture and ways she is working to combat it in order to foster a more democratic society. She also hits on the shift toward freedom of the press, independent media, transparency and the growing feeling in Icelandic people that it is their responsibility to care about what is happening in politics in their country. However, there is a long way to go and this interview opened my eyes to some deep seated beliefs in Iceland.

The Questions I Asked Dóra During the Interview

Have other women assimilated to using masculine and aggressive ways of expressing themselves in the City Council? Are men aware of the aggressive discussion culture and their role? From a foreigner or outsider’s view, it seems as though the 2008 financial crash in Iceland sparked a change in the government because the people demanded it. How different is the political landscape now as opposed to before the crash? What do you feel are some important topics being discussed in Iceland that people who live outside of the country or those that do not understand the language would not be aware of? The financial crisis in 2008 and some scandals since then have weakened some people’s confidence in politicians in Iceland. What do you feel politicians and the government as a whole needs to do to gain back the confidence of Icelandic people?

I hope you enjoyed listening to part 2 of this interview. The third and final part will be released next week, so make sure you are subscribed to the All Things Iceland podcast so you don’t miss it. If you are able to leave a review, please do so, if you haven’t already.

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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta (og að lesa) og sjáumst fljótlega (Thank you kindly for listening (and reading) and see you soon!

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For episode 10 of the All Things Iceland podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Gunnar Örn Ingólfsson, a practicing psychologist in Iceland. We spoke about the state of mental health care in the country. Even though Iceland has consistently ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world, according to The World Happiness Report, the country ranks as the fourth most depressed nation in Europe. I find that quite shocking and I wanted to get better insight into why there is such a high rate of depression in Iceland and what steps the country can take to improve the situation.

Gunnar has a PhD in Counseling Psychology and he has worked extensively with adult clients in the US and Iceland that suffer from depression, anxiety, drug problems, as well as computer and internet addiction. He also works with those that find it difficult to adapt to the variability of life. His work with clients centers around Solution Focused Therapy.

I enjoyed this interview not only because it helped me to better understand mental health care in Iceland , but also because Gunnar is my husband. It was interesting to hear his perspective on a topic that I know is very close to his heart. I have added the contact details for his private practice below for anyone that is interested in reaching out to him.

Questions I asked Gunnar about mental health care in Iceland during the interview:

What sparked your interest in psychology and providing counseling to people? Why is it important for you to provide counseling in Iceland? Is it a part of Icelandic culture to openly share how you are feeling? How are people with mental illness treated in Iceland by other members of society and medical doctors? The seasons can be quite drastic here, with long, dark nights in the winter and long, bright days in the summer. Do you notice more people seeking therapy during winter as opposed to summer? I read that Iceland’s mental health care system is not adequately meeting the needs of the people here and that a large % of residents are on antidepressants. Can you share your thoughts on that? What do you think is the biggest obstacle in the way of improving mental health treatment in Iceland and what steps do you think can be taken to help improve this situation? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase? (I like to end off the show with this question. It can be mental health related but it doesn’t have to be) His answer was: "Það tekur fólk alla ævina að læra að lifa." Check out the show to find out what that phrase means in English.

Dr. Gunnar's Private Practice Contact Information

Sálfræðistofa Reykjavíkur Facebook page

I hope you enjoyed listening to this interview as much as I enjoyed conducting it. Please remember to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss the new episodes that I upload every week. If you are listening to this podcast on a platform that allows a reviews, please leave a review.

Goða skemmtun og sjáumst fljótlega (Enjoy and see you soon)!

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I had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Guðmundur A. Guðmundsson, who has a MSc and PhD degree in Ecology, and is a researcher at the Icelandic Institute of Natural History. During the interview you will hear me say Mummi when I speak to Dr. Guðmundsson. It is a nickname commonly used in Iceland for men with the name Guðmundur.

Some of the topics I discussed with Mummi during our interview for the All Things Iceland podcast include the fascinating birds that can be found in Iceland, the connection between birds and Icelandic culture, and the best time to see birds migrating to the country. It was an enlightening conversation and I hope you enjoy listening to it.

Questions I asked Mummi:

What sparked your interest in studying birds? What is your role at the Institute of Icelandic Natural History? I read that about 350 species of birds have been recorded in Iceland. Why is it that so many birds are finding their way to this island? How many of them are nesting here? Are their birds that are most commonly found in Iceland? Is there a connection between birds and Icelandic culture? Is there a best season or specific months to go bird watching in Iceland? Do you recommend any areas in Iceland for people to watch birds? Have you seen any effect on bird migration and nesting due to climate change? Are there any birds that you have observed in Iceland that have strange or fascinating habits? Do you have a favorite bird that you like to watch or study? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase (I like to ask this during all of my interviews. It can be related to birds but it doesn’t have to be)?

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Goða skemmtun og sjáumst fljótlega (Enjoy and see you soon)!

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I had the pleasure of chatting with Bjarney "Baddý" Hinriksdóttir, a yoga instructor and yoga studio owner in downtown Reykjavík about yoga in Iceland. Like many Western countries, Iceland has seen a significant rise in the number of people practicing yoga. With just a quick Google search you can easily find 4 or 5 studios in the Reykjavík area. What makes Baddý’s studio unique is that her classes are only taught in English and it is smack dab in the middle of the downtown area.

When I first moved to Iceland, I immediately gravitated toward Baddý’s studio. It was awesome that I could get some yoga classes in English but also because you can tell that Baddý is passionate about what she does. During this interview we talk about how obscure yoga was considered not too long ago in Iceland, Baddýs thoughts on why yoga has become so popular here and if yoga will stand the test of time as an activity in this country. Questions I Asked Baddý During the Interview About Yoga in Iceland 

What sparked your interest in yoga and when did you started practicing? When did you start to notice that yoga in Iceland was becoming a popular activity? Why do you think yoga appeals to Icelandic people? Are there certain styles of yoga that are more popular than others in Iceland? Do you practice and teach a certain style? Why was it important for you to open a yoga studio in Iceland with only English speaking classes? Even though your yoga classes are conducted in English, do Icelandic people come to practice with you? Do you think the popularity of yoga is a trend in Iceland or is it here to stay? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase? (I ask this in every interview. It can be related to yoga but it doesn’t have to be)

How to Connect with Baddý

Reykjavík Yoga website Facebook Instagram

I hope you enjoy listening to this interview on the All Things Iceland podcast. After the interview, please remember to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss the episodes I publish every week. If the platform you are listening to this podcast on allows you to leave a review, please do so, if you haven’t already.

Góða skemmtun og sjáumst fljótlega (Enjoy and see you soon)!

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During part 2 of my interview with Alda Sigmundsdóttir, an Icelandic author and journalist that has her thumb on the pulse of Icelandic society, Alda shares some eye opening information. Alda talks extensively about Iceland’s economic meltdown, scandals that people outside of the country might not be aware of, a place in Iceland that is close to her heart and her favorite Icelandic word or phrase. While the two parts of this interview can stand alone as individual episodes, I very much recommend listening to both parts.

Questions I asked Alda during this interview about Icelandic Society:

In your book “Living Inside the Meltdown”, you interviewed Icelandic people about the economic crash in Iceland in 2008. How did you go about choosing who you wanted to interview? Was it difficult to get people to cooperate? What do you feel are some important topics being discussed in Iceland that people who live outside of the country or those that do not understand the language would not be aware of? Have you ever received a funny or strange reaction to any of your books? Do you have a favorite area or place in Iceland that you enjoy visiting? What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase? You are quite active on social media and you have done many speaking engagements. Where can people interact or get in touch with you?

Alda’s Books Mentioned in the Interview: Living Inside the Meltdown

The Little Book of the Icelanders: 50 Miniature Essays on the Quirks and Foibles of the Icelandic People

The Little Book of the Icelanders in the Old Days

Connect with Alda Sigmundsdóttir: Alda’s website

Instagram

Facebook

I hope you enjoyed listening to part 2 of this interview. Make sure to check out Part 1, if you have not already. I publish a new episode of the All Things Iceland podcast every week. Make sure you are subscribed so you don’t miss new updates. If the platform you are listening to this podcast on allows you to leave a review, please do so, if you haven’t already.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega (Thank you kindly for listening and see you soon)!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase after clicking through the link. I recommend these companies because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions I make if you decide to buy something through my links. Please do not spend any money on these products unless you feel you need them or that they will help you achieve your goals.

The Little Book of the Icelanders in the Old Days

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I had the pleasure of interviewing Jesse Byock, professor of Old Norse and Medieval Scandinavian Studies at UCLA and Háskóli Íslands for the All Things Iceland Podcast. We sat down in his lovely apartment in Reykjavík to chat about his book “Viking Language 1: Learn Old Norse, Runes, and Icelandic Sagas”.

I met Jesse at the 2017 Polyglot Conference in Reykjavík, Iceland after seeing the captivating cover of his book (below) that was laying on the table. I ended up having a chat with Jesse about living in Iceland, the Icelandic language and the Viking Language book series. As an archaeologist and an expat that has lived in Iceland for decades, Jesse has some fascinating stories to share. You will hear some of them in this interview. Viking Language 1 - A Brief Overview

Can you guess what the creature is on the front cover of his book? Jesse reveals the answer at 24:05 in the podcast.

Viking Language 1 is a grammar book for beginners that want an introduction to Old Norse, but it goes beyond the normal humdrum grammar book. Over the course of 20 years, Jesse developed this book based on the feedback he received from his students while teaching Old Norse. Instead of just cramming the book with rote grammar and vocabulary exercises, he decided to weave in tidbits of history, culture and stories in between the exercises. He also included maps that display where Vikings traveled in Europe and North America. This refreshing approach made doing the exercises fun. History and culture enthusiasts will be delighted with the plethora of information he provides.

While Jesse uses this book to teach Old Norse in the classroom, he stated in the interview that he structured the book so people could use it for independent learning. As a do-it-yourself kind of person, I appreciate the effort he made to create a book that is also useful for people who are not taking a class.

You can find Viking Language 1 & 2 on Amazon Learn More About Jesse Byock & His Other Books

Jesse’s Viking Language website

Jesse has authored many books and they are available on Amazon.

Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að lesa (og að hlusta). Sjáumst fljótlega.

Thank you kindly for reading (and listening to the podcast). See you soon!

Viking Language 2: The Old Norse Reader (Viking Language Old Norse Icelandic Series)

Viking Language 1 Learn Old Norse, Runes, and Icelandic Sagas (Viking Language Series)

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A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents. I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now.

When, while the lovely valley teems with vapour around me, and the meridian sun strikes the upper surface of the impenetrable foliage of my trees, and but a few stray gleams steal into the inner sanctuary, I throw myself down among the tall grass by the trickling stream; and, as I lie close to the earth, a thousand unknown plants are noticed by me: when I hear the buzz of the little world among the stalks, and grow familiar with the countless indescribable forms of the insects and flies, then I feel the presence of the Almighty, who formed us in his own image, and the breath of that universal love which bears and sustains us, as it floats around us in an eternity of bliss; and then, my friend, when darkness overspreads my eyes, and heaven and earth seem to dwell in my soul and absorb its power, like the form of a beloved mistress, then I often think with longing, Oh, would I could describe these conceptions, could impress upon paper all that is living so full and warm within me, that it might be the mirror of my soul, as my soul is the mirror of the infinite God! I should be incapable of drawing a single stroke at the present moment; and yet I feel that I never was a greater artist than now. O my friend -- but it is too much for my strength -- I sink under the weight of the splendour of these visions! A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite sense of mere tranquil existence, that I neglect my talents.

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All Things Iceland: Recent Episodes

Jewells Chambers

Hjartatorg Christmas Market

Elliðavatnsbær Heiðmörk Christams Market

of Tourist to Iceland vs Icelandic Population