All Things Iceland

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 Position
The 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 Plates
The 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 Formation
One 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 Plume
Adding 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 Predictions
Extensive 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.

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 Iceland
In 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 Stone
Well, 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 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.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 Episode
Óshlíð, 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.

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 Rökkvi
Through 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 Greenland
During 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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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumsy fljótlega.

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 Be
According 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 Episode
There 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 Episode
Lagarfljótsormur - the Lagarfljot worm
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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 Begins

My 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 Fissure

The 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 Chill
Post-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 Impressions
Despite 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.

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 Ghost
Rusty 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 Episode
Ghost 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 Episode
Ghost – draugur
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega

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.
1. 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.- Christina
Iceland 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.
2. 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? - Alison
Kolaportið 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.
3. "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." - Vickie

The 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.
4. Hi Jewells! My family will be there in June. Is there a traditional event for summer solstice? - Ruth
Unlike 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.
5. "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?" - Gerald
My 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,

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 Fjords
Mjóifjörður (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 heartOff to the gorge I'll departTear out my lust and my seedTo Mjóifjörður gorge I shall speedAfter 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 Along
Finally, 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 Episode
Klifbrekkufossar 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 Episode
Prestagil – Pastor’s Gorge
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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 Watt
Laura 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 Episode
Glöggt er gests augað - Keen is the eye of the guest
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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 Story
One 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 Episode
There 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 Episode
Skuggabaldur – roughly translates to a shadow cat
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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 Reykjavík
Reykjavík, 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 Kaffi
Mokka 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 Roasters
Reykjavík 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 House
Kaffitár 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 Babalú
Café 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)

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 Sorcerer
A 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 Body
After 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 Episode
I 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 Episode
Galdramaður – sorcerer
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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 Iceland
December 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 December
One 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 Iceland
Layering 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 & Driving
Winter 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 Iceland
Go 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.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
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.
Expert Trip Planning Tips for December

One of the best tips I have for December in Iceland is to be prepare...

This is part of my Folklore Friday series, where I am sharing an Icelandic Folklore story every Friday in 2024. 
Katla The Witch
The 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 Magical
People 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 Mistake
At 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 Katla
It 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 Episode
According 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 Episode
Katla – 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 Terrifying
In 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 Cows
In 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 Whale
As 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.

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.
1. "What do Icelanders generally like and dislike about Americans?" - Garrett
In 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.
2. "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?" - Rob
Dolly 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.
3. "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" - Nat
Hi 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.
4. "Hi Jewells, I would like to know more about how you learned Icelandic. Your pronunciation sounds like native to me!

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 Aliens
When 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 Episode
According 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 Episode
Geimvera - alien
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega

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 Monastery
Skriðuklaustur, 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 Gunnarsson
The 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 Site
Skriðuklaustur 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 s...

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 Elves
One 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 Life
However, 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 Folklore
* 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
Random Fact of the Episode
According 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 Episode
Álfheimar – elf world
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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 November
November 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 November
Daylight 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 Iceland
Given 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 & Driving
Driving 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 4x4 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 November
November 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.

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 Naustahvilft

Random Fact of the Episode
There 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.
Books About Icelandic Folklore
* 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
Icelandic Word of the Episode
Ísafjörður – ice fjord
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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 Podcast
1. 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".
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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 ofte...

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 Past
Our 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!
Books About Icelandic Folklore
* 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
Random Fact of the Episode
Eggert 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,

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 Demand
Guðmundur 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,

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 Day
The 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 Day
Reynisfjara – 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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Check out more Icelandic folklore stories here.Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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.
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
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.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 & 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 October
Due 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 Iceland
Go 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.I personally use them for when I go on adventures, and I’m so glad to hear that many of my listeners and su...

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 Elf
I 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 Episode
Due 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 Episode
Huldufólk – hidden peopleCheck 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 Iceland

Loss of Hot Water & The Precaution Needed with Gas Heaters
In 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=1The 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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The towns on the Reyjanes Peninsula.

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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 Anything
Before 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 Skyline
Perched 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 Government
Althingi, 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 Nature
The 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 Architecture
If 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 Spirituality
Step 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 Dream
Music 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 View
For the best views of Reykjavík and the surrounding mountains, take the lift to the church's observation tower.

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 Trout
In 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 Victims
The 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 Iceland
The 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 Episode
According 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.

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 Iceland
Before 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 Converge

If 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 Marvel

Next 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 Falls

The 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 w...

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 Island
Word 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 Episode
You 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 Iceland

Along 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 Episode
The 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 Folklore
1 .The Guardians of Iceland and other Icelandic Folk Tales2. Icelandic Folk Legends: Tales of Apparitions, Outlaws, and Things Unseen3. The Little Book of the Hidden People: Twenty Stories of Elves from Icelandic Folklore4. Icelandic Folk Tales
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

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.
Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland
Before 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 basically like an ask me anything segment.
The Lights Trail at the Winter Lights Festival
The 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 Night
Pool 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 Night
Imagine 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 Iceland
I  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 Episode
Every 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 Episode
Vetrarhátíð – 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 Again
On 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,

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 Grindavik
You 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 Saying
The 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.

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 Scorned
Even 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 Be
Time 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 Whale
One 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

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 Iceland
Length 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 lightOn 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 September
If you are looking to avoid the crowds of summer, September is a lovely time to visit.

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 Iceland
On 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 Appear
But 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 Episode
Due 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.
Books About Icelandic Folklore
* 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 TalesÞakka 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 2023
I’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 US
I 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 2023

Even 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 2023

The 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 th...

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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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að lesa og sjáumst fljótlega.

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:
1. Icelandic Christmas Buffet

The 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 Reykjavík

The 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 Square
Located 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,

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 monthThis 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 August
In 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 August
One 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 1stThe sun rises at 04:33 and sets at 22:32 for a total of 17:58 of daylightAugust 15thThe sun is up 05:17 and sets at 21:44 for a total of 16:26 of daylightAugust 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 Iceland
Layers 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.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 July, especially in the north, so you will need some layers.


Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland during August
August is one of the best times for driving in Iceland as the roads are generally clear of snow and ice. However,

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, Iceland
The 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 History
For 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 Exist
While 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, Iceland
While 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,

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 Closed
Due 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 Evacuation
In 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 Grindavik
Residents 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 Reconstruction
An excerpt from anews 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."

Iceland Review

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 Different
So 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 Declared
One 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 Iceland
I 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 Lagoon
Also, 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 Named
Gunnuhver 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 Episode
Along 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 Episode
Gleðilega Hrekkjavöku (Happy Halloween) – hrekkur means prank and vaka means to awake
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Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega

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 & Save
If 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 Iceland
1. 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 Iceland
1. 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,

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 Iceland
July 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 Iceland
One 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 July
* 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.* Waterproofs: Always carry a waterproof jacket and possibly trousers. Showers can come and go suddenly.* Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots are ideal, especially if you plan on exploring the countryside.* Sun Protection: Due to the angle of the sun, sunburn can sneak up on you. Pack sunglasses, sunblock, and maybe a hat.* 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 & Driving
July 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 July
Due 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.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.

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 Days
One 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 Winter
Average 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.

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 Iceland
Sænautasel, 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 Highlands
In 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 History
Starting 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 Houses
The 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 ...

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 June
June 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 June
One 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 June
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.

If you plan to use a campervan, use my code Iceland7 to save 7% and get two free duvets with yourGO 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.
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,

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.


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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!

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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 wat...

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
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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 Peacock
Iceland 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 Husband
I 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 Bliss
If 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 April
April 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 Hours
One 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 Iceland
Because 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 4x4 vehicle with studded winter tires is recommended for added safety.
It's a Great Time to Explore in a Car or Campervan
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.

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.


What to Wear in Iceland in April
To 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...

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 Canada
This 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 Iceland
March 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 March

During 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 minutesMarch 16th – 11 hours and 47 minutesMarch 31st -  13 hours and 25 minutes
Road Conditions & Driving in Iceland During March

Road 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 Discount
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.
What to Wear in Iceland During March
Because 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.

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 Post
* What to book immediately For Your Summer Trip to Iceland* Travel Tips for Driving Around the Country* Iceland's Magnificent & Disruptive Midnight Sun* How to Beat Summer Crowds in Iceland* What to know if you plan to hike in the Icelandic Highlands* The Best Places to See Puffins and Whales in Iceland* Iceland's Summer Events Worth Attending* What to Pack for a Summer Adventure in Iceland
Book an Iceland Trip Planning Call with Me
Before 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.
1. Book These Things in Iceland Right Immediately
* Accommodations
After 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 Car
While 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,

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 Country
While 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.

Photo by Josepha Lauth Thomsen

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Other Episodes about Greenland
* From Iceland to Greenland: An Epic Adventure for Nature Lovers

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 Up
The 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 Greenland
Land 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

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 February

February 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 Iceland
This 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 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.
What to Wear in February

In 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 February

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 Strikes
Efling, 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 Iceland
The 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 Iceland
Here 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 
*

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 Iceland
1. Fake Icelandic sweaters


One 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.


2. Puffin Shops
A 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,

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 January
While 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 Iceland
In 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 Company
Before 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“.

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 Own
You’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.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.
Driving & Weather Related Apps
While these are not in order of importance, the first one is one of the most important sites/apps for you to know.

Safe Travel App
SafeTravel.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 Maps
Google 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 Vedur
The 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,

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 Iceland
1. Domino's Pizza - Highest number of locations


Number 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.
2. Subway
Number 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.
3. Sbarro Pizza
Number 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.

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 Companies
The 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 codeJewells to save 15% when you shop with them online.
Top News Stories in Iceland From 2022

* Safety Signs, Cameras Installed at Reynisfjara Beach
* Refugee Man and Family Previously Deported Win Case
* New Plant to Capture Ten Times More CO2 from Atmosphere at Hellisheiði
* Forests Now Cover 2% of Iceland
* Immigrants in Iceland just over 60,000

My Favorite Podcast Episodes from 2022

* Is the Meradalir eruption over? 
* How my sister and mom felt about me moving to Iceland
* Iceland is more vegan friendly than you think
* One of the Most Influential Icelandic Authors of Her Generation – Auður Jónsdóttir
* From Brazil to Iceland: Georg Leite’s Experience Living in the Land of Fire & Ice
* The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland

Random Fact of the Episode
I 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 ...

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 4x4 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 Iceland
On 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 Episode
Gangi 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.

Cintamani - High Quality Local Icelandic Outdoor Clothing Company
Before 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“.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 Cintamani
* Brynja jacket* Trausti pants* Ögn jacket

Essentials to Pack for Icelandic Winter
There 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 dinnerMicrospikes - 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 ScarfWarm socks - ones made from wool or an insulating synthetic fiberSwimwear - Iceland is known for its swimming pools and hot springsDay pack
Free Iceland Packing Checklist

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.

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 Laugavegu...

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.
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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

1. 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


2. 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)


3. Reykjadalur Hot Spring River Hike

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.
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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 ha...

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 unio...

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,

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
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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,

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,

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,

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,

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.
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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 RentalIf 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,

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
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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 onInstagram.Here is where you can purchase Ástiðir.Here is where you can purchase Dagatal
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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.

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

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,

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.Click here to read what MAST (The Icelandic Food & Veterinary Authority) has to say about importing animals.

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
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In partnership with the Icelandic Bathing Culture Exhibithosted 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

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
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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
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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?

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