As a first time traveler to Iceland, I was not sure what to expect when I arrived to this island. Every mile we trekked, the country looked more and more like something out of a fairy tale. However, I had a few pleasant surprises during my visit that I would like to share with you. Here are the 10 things you should know before going to Iceland:
1. The Sulfuric Smell
What makes Iceland fascinating and beautiful is the landscape and geothermal energy. As you travel though the country, you will see relaxing hot springs, lava fields, volcanoes and geysers. As result, some areas may smell like eggs because of the sulfur. But do not fret, the Icelandic air and water is more likely cleaner than yours.
Most of their hot water comes directly from hot springs. So, just make sure you a prepared when you are in your hotel shower and turn on the faucet. At first you may be shocked by the smell, but do not let the smell fool you. The sulfur has benefits, like making your skin soft.
Hot springs and steam in Hveragerdi, Iceland
2. You Cannot Stop on the Roads
When I went to Iceland with my best friend, we decided that we would rent a car, so we can see the country without staying on a schedule. As we drove to our destinations, there were so many times that we wanted to stop along the road to take some photos of the landscapes. However, there are no shoulders in Iceland and it is illegal to stop on the sides of the roads. If you really want to take a snap, then you will have to take it while the car is moving or stop along some of the designated rest stops to take photos.
What a gorgeous view? Too bad I was on the wrong side of the car.
3. No Tips
In general, it's not common to tip in Iceland, but appreciated. Yet, since Icelanders are very well traveled, they do know the concept of tipping and would gladly accept it. The reason is many of the bills already have the gratuity or service charge added into the total. That being said, if you feel like you had exceptional service, feel free to show them your appreciation with a tip.
Icelandic Seafood Stew with Thunder bread. The bread was cooked underground by geothermal energy for 20 hours.
4. Watch Your Speed
If you are like me, you are not use to driving in a foreign country and have difficulties deciphering the road signs. If you decide to drive around Iceland, make sure you learn the signs and abide by the speed limits. Although you may be driving on a road for a while without seeing or passing another car, that does not mean you can add a little speed. Along the roads, the country has a speed traps and cameras to document your speed. Without being stopped, you may be receiving a speeding ticket in the mail when you get home.
Be safe and watch your speed.
5. Shower Before Jumping In
It is also mandatory to shower naked before entering the pools. If you plan on visiting the Blue Lagoon, plan on stripping and showering in the locker room before being able to jump in. Do not be afraid or put off by it. Most places have some privacy for you to clean yourself.
Enjoying a dip in the Blue Lagoon.
6. Northern Lights
I always have chills when seeing the Northern Lights in film and photos. Because of this, I booked my plan to Iceland in October so I could have a greater chance of seeing them. Please be aware that the weather in Iceland is unpredictable and can change at a moment's notice. That being said, clear days do not mean clear nights. You can go out searching for the Northern Lights every night, but miss them. It is up to weather and luck to see this amazing phenomenon. If you plan on going out, make sure you are away from light pollution and can see a few stars.
Also, note that the Northern Lights may not look like the bright, neon colors you see in images. To the naked eye, it may look like clouds. Another thing to know is it may be hard to capture with a cellphone or camera.
Technical Difficulties with the Northern Lights.
7. Opening Times of Businesses
If you are planning on starting an early day on the road, make sure you are aware of the business hours. We thought it would be nice to wake up early, go to a grocery store and pick up some items for a mid day picnic, but we were surprised with the opening times of the grocery stores. Some of the stores, like Bonus and Kronos, do not open until 10 or 11 a.m. Make sure you do your research, ask around and plan accordingly.
A quiet morning in Reykjavik, Iceland.
8. Credit Card Pins
During my time in Iceland, I did not have any trouble using a credit card. In fact, I did not have to use any currency and paid for it all on credit. There were some businesses that had certain cards that they would accept, so make sure you bring a couple spare cards in case of an emergency.
If you a planning to drive and use your credit card for gas, like we did, make sure you know the credit card pin. Prior to going away, I called my credit card company and set up a pin. Otherwise, while you are trying to pump gas on a rural, country road, you will not get scared/confused/frustrated when the pump is asking you for credit card pin.
9. Bring Lots of Layers
As I mentioned before, the weather in Iceland is so unpredictable. It can be cold and windy one moment and then change to bright, sunny weather the next. Make sure you have plenty of layers when you begin your trek. I found that a wind-proof coat, fleece jacket and an insulated vest where the best combination to switch in and out of during the day.
As we got closer to the natural hot springs, I took off my coat and fleece jacket that kept me warm in the morning. It heats up fast in Iceland.
10. You will Fall in Love with Iceland
Every day I was there, I fell more and more in love with Iceland. It is one of the most surreal places I have ever been. The entire country looks like trolls, fairies and elves would appear out of no where. As you near the end of your trip, you will run out of adjectives to describe the landscapes. If you ever get the opportunity, I would jump on a trip to Iceland. Trust me, I would go back in a heartbeat.
In fact... I am already eyeing up some deals for Ring Road with my husband in the near future!
Wishing I could go back...
