All Things Iceland

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 Landmass To 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 Iceland In 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 Episode Beyond 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 Episode Áfram Ísland – Let’s go Iceland! Share This With A Friend Facebook Email Threads Let's Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook

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 Iceland Before 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 Iceland The 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 Iceland Whether 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

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 Exists I 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!

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! 1. Geographic Isolation Iceland’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. 2. High Taxes and Import Duties Iceland 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. 3. Market Dominance by Few Companies Iceland’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 Less If 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 4.

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 Iceland 1. 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 first One 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. 2. Do Travel to different parts of the country when you visit Iceland 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 Reykjavik While Reykjavik is a fantastic city with a lively atmos...

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 Legère More about Christian Legère Christian'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 Legère Where are you from and what brough you to Iceland?When did your fascination with the Northern Lights begin?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?What makes your website Emerald Skies unique?Tips you have for people who want to see the Northern Lights on their own.How should people manage their expectations when it comes to seeing the Northern Lights?What are some spots you recommend people go to and potentially see the Northern Lights?What are your favorite Northern Lights sightings?What is your favorite Icelandic word or phrase? Contact Christian about the Northern Lights The best way to contact Christian about the northern lights is via his website Emerald Skies of Iceland. Share This with a Friend Facebook Email Threads Let's Be Social Youtube Tiktok Instagram Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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. 1. Admire the Street Art Reykjavík’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. 2. Visit Hallgrímskirkja Church Hallgrímskirkja 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 Museum The 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. 4. Take a photo at the Sun Voyager The 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,

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. 25% off the Savvy Traveler's Guide to Iceland Grab my early bird offer and save big on this comprehensive video guide that helps you explore Iceland like a local. Click Here 1. Weather in Iceland is Unpredictable Iceland 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. 2. Iceland is Expensive Expect 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. 3. Driving Can Be Challenging Driving 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 4x4 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. 4. Cards Are King But Cash Can Be Use Iceland 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). 5. Respect Nature Iceland’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. 6. Plan for Daylight Extremes Iceland’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. 7. Icelandic Tap Water is the Amazing Iceland’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...

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. 1. Not Taking Off Shoes Before Entering an Icelander’s Home In 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. 2. Calling an Icelandic Horse a Pony Icelandic 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. 3. Not Offering an Icelander Some Coffee If They Visit You Coffee 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. 4. Not Showering Naked Before Entering a Pool Icelanders 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. 5. Voicing Your Dislike or Disdain for Licorice Licorice 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. 6. Being a Disrespectful Tourist Iceland’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,

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 TourBest time to see an Ice Cave in IcelandTemperature inside an Ice CaveWhat to wear on an Ice Cave Tour?Katla Ice Cave - Price, pros & consCrystal Ice Cave - Price, pros & consWhich 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 Tour Before 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? Thermal Base Layer: Wear a moisture-wicking base layer made of materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics to keep you dry and warm.Insulating Mid-Layer: Add a fleece or insulated jacket to provide additional warmth.Waterproof Outer Layer: Use a windproof and waterproof jacket and pants to protect against moisture and wind.Warm Hat and Gloves: Bring a hat that covers your ears and gloves to keep your hands warm.