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InternationalTravel.ai > Iceland

Iceland

Coastal Beaches

Best Season to Visit: Summer

Best Off-Peak Month to Visit: October

Famous For: Geothermal spas, Northern Lights, Volcanic landscapes

Train Access: No

Bus Service: Yes (Strætó, very safe)

Tourist Visa: Citizens of the Schengen Area can enter Iceland without a visa for short stays. Travelers from countries like the US, Canada, and Australia can also visit visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Others may need to apply for a Schengen visa.

Iceland, a land of stark contrasts and natural wonders, offers travelers an immersive experience into a world of geothermal marvels, dramatic landscapes, and rich Viking history. Visitors can explore the famous Golden Circle, where the Gullfoss waterfall, Geysir geothermal area, and Thingvellir National Park showcase the country's geological diversity. The capital, Reykjavik, is a hub for cultural experiences, with its iconic Hallgrimskirkja church, vibrant street art, and the National Museum of Iceland. Dining in Iceland includes sampling traditional dishes like hákarl (fermented shark) and enjoying fresh seafood at harborside restaurants. Outdoor activities are abundant, with opportunities to hike glaciers, soak in the Blue Lagoon, and witness the Northern Lights. Unique events such as the Secret Solstice music festival and the Reykjavik International Film Festival draw visitors into Iceland's contemporary culture. Whale watching tours depart from Husavik, while the Westfjords offer a remote escape into untouched landscapes. Horseback riding on Icelandic horses and ice caving adventures provide exhilarating experiences. From the black sand beaches of Vik to the geothermal baths of Myvatn, Iceland's natural beauty is the centerpiece of any visit.

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Podcasts

Episode 8: Jake Barber - The Expat Finance Expert Returns

Jake Barber, the Founder and CEO of SJB Global, is a life-long expat and an expert in expat finance. Over the course of Expat Exchange's nearly 30 years online, there are few people we have met with as much lived experience and professional acumen as Jake. We were thrilled to welcome him back to the show and look forward to having him on again!

Episode 6: Jake Barber - Expat Finance Expert and Lifelong Expat

Jake Barber is an expat finance expert and the founder and principal of SJB Global. A lifelong expat currently living in Marbella, Spain, Jake has vast experience helping expats from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries manage their finances while living abroad. Get a primer on what you need to know both before and after you move abroad!

Planning Your Trip to Iceland

Weather: Iceland has a subarctic oceanic climate in the south and a tundra climate in the north. The weather is characterized by cold winters and cool summers, with temperatures often moderated by the North Atlantic Current. Precipitation is more common in the southern part of the island, and the weather can change rapidly, with strong winds and storms not uncommon.

Festivals: The Reykjavik Arts Festival celebrates Iceland's vibrant arts scene, while the National Day on June 17th commemorates Icelandic independence with parades and cultural events.

Best Destinations for Kids: The family-friendly Whale Museum in Husavik offers interactive exhibits, while the Skaftefell National Park provides easy trails for exploring with children.

Hidden Gem: The Eastfjords are less visited but equally stunning, with quaint fishing villages, diverse wildlife, and serene fjord landscapes.

Budget-Friendly Advice: Traveling in Iceland on a budget requires strategic planning. Camping is a popular and affordable accommodation option, with many campsites offering amenities like showers and kitchens. Hostels and guesthouses provide budget-friendly alternatives to hotels, especially outside of Reykjavik. Dining costs can be reduced by shopping at local supermarkets and preparing meals, as restaurant prices are high. Free natural attractions, such as waterfalls, geysers, and hiking trails, abound. Public transportation is limited outside the capital, so joining group tours can be a cost-effective way to explore. Off-peak travel during shoulder seasons like May or September can result in lower prices for flights and accommodations.

Accessibility: Iceland's capital, Reykjavik, is relatively accessible with good sidewalks and public transport, but more remote areas may pose challenges for older travelers due to rugged terrain.

For the Solo Traveler: Solo travel in Iceland is generally safe and rewarding. The country is known for its low crime rate and friendly locals. Reykjavik is a great starting point, with many tours and activities geared towards solo travelers. Hostels provide social atmospheres for meeting fellow adventurers. While exploring the countryside, solo travelers should be prepared for changing weather conditions and remote areas with limited services. It's recommended to rent a car for flexibility, as public transport option

Planning a 1 Week Stay: A week in Iceland could include the Golden Circle, a few days in Reykjavik, a trip to the South Coast to see waterfalls and black sand beaches, and a visit to the Blue Lagoon.

Planning a 1 Month Stay: For a month-long trip, explore beyond the typical tourist routes: visit the Westfjords, experience the Eastfjords, hike in the Highlands, and immerse yourself in the local culture of small towns and villages.

Delving into the Culture

Movies Set: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, Prometheus, Interstellar

Popular Foods: Traditional Icelandic cuisine includes dishes like hákarl (fermented shark), harðfiskur (dried fish), and kjötsúpa (meat soup). Skyr, a thick yogurt-like dairy product, is a popular dessert and snack. Lamb and seafood are staples in the Icelandic diet, often prepared with a focus on simplicity and purity of flavor.

Unusual Eats: Hákarl is a notorious Icelandic dish consisting of fermented Greenland shark, which has a strong ammonia smell and is an acquired taste. Svið, or singed sheep's head, is another unusual dish that can be off-putting to visitors due to its appearance and texture.

Popular Sports: football, handball, basketball, golf, swimming

Popular Teams: KR Reykjavík (football), Valur (handball), Stjarnan (football)

Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid: Visitors should avoid being loud and disrespectful in public spaces, as Icelanders value a peaceful and orderly environment. It's also considered impolite to not remove shoes when entering someone's home. Additionally, tipping is not a common practice in Iceland and can sometimes be seen as unnecessary or even insulting, as service charges are typically included in the bill.