Iceland is often referred to as the island of ice and fire. One of the most volcanically active places on earth it is also one of the most unique landscapes. From the giant geysers at Geysir and Gullfoss to the hot springs of Landmannalaugar, it is packed with geological wonders unlike any you’ll see elsewhere. Visitors who take a drive around the 860 mile Ring Road will see lava fields, frosty tundras, crashing waves, bubbling mud pools and dramatic glacial lagoons.
Return to Reykjavik and you might feel that you’ve been to the moon. For in Reykjavik you find that the country is surprisingly sophisticated, despite being a remote island with a population of barely 300,000. A strong internal economy and an international banking industry have paved the way to one of the highest standards of living in Europe. Even with the collapse of the financial sector unemployment remains at a lowly one percent.
Over half the island’s population live in the capital, which has a reputation for artistic culture and vibrant nightlife. The Viking legacy is strong too – the Icelandic language is largely unchanged since the 12th century, preserved in the ancient sagas, while the practice of patronymy still lives on. Head to the Saga museum for a taste of Icelandic history or just ask one of the multitude of artists and dreamers to recount their favourite epic. They all speak excellent English and will be only too happy to welcome you to an island of which they are, quite rightly, very proud.
Getting there
International flights go to Akureyi airport, 48km west of Reykjavik. A car ferry is available from Bergen (Norway), Lerwick (Shetland Isles), Hanstholm (Denmark) and Torshavn (Faroe Isles).
Getting around
The extensive domestic air network is the fastest way of getting around; bus services can be limited on some routes and there is no train. Car hire is often best if you do a lot of travelling around the island and usually ends up cheaper than alternatives. Numerous ferries operate to the outlying islands and fjords.
Local information
Language: Icelandic
Time: UTC
Climate: Cold oceanic. Cool summers and cold winters, rainfall throughout the year. Temperature: Max 14°C (July), Min -4°C (February). Rainfall: Max 94mm (October), Min 42mm (May).
Currency: Euro
Business etiquette: Suits should be worn. A handshake is a standard formal greeting. Appointments should be made and punctuality is very important.
Tipping: Tipping is not widely practiced.
Duty free: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco; 1l of spirits or 2l of beers, wines or cider; 50g of perfume; 250ml of eau de toilette; 500g of coffee; 100g of tea; medication for personal use.
Safety: Crime is low; petty theft is a risk around bars and nightclubs.
Laws: Handling even small quantities of drugs may lead to imprisonment. Smoking in public buildings/transport is prohibited.
Healthcare: Vaccination for tetanus required. Good medical facilities available, European citizens get free healthcare with an EHIC card. Travellers from beyond the EU may be charged and are advised to take out health insurance.
Socket type: Type C, Type M.
