Advertise on podcast: All Things Iceland

Apparently, we are maxxing everything these days. There’s sleep-maxxing, looks-maxxing, money-maxxing… so naturally, I’ve decided we need to talk about Iceland-maxxing. And yes, I know that sounds ridiculous, but stick with me because there’s actually a useful idea behind this. What Does Iceland-Maxxing Actually Mean? If you’re traveling to Iceland, you’re probably spending a significant amount of money to get here. You might be using a week or two of precious vacation time. Maybe this is a trip you’ve been dreaming about for years. So how do you get the most value out of the time, money, and energy you’re spending to be here? When I say Iceland-maxxing, I absolutely do not mean cramming as many attractions as humanly possible into your itinerary. In fact, I think that’s one of the fastest ways to make your trip worse. After living in Iceland for almost ten years and helping people plan trips here for years, I think a great Iceland itinerary comes down to something much simpler: everything on your itinerary should earn its place. How to Create Your Own Itinerary for Iceland This is actually a big part of why I created my Iceland Itinerary Blueprint. I kept seeing people with dozens of amazing places saved for Iceland, but they didn’t necessarily know how to turn all of those places into a trip that made sense geographically or fit the amount of time they actually had. The Blueprint walks you through the process I use to think about your priorities, driving time, where things are located, and how to put everything together into an itinerary that works for your trip. I’ll tell you a little more about it later on in this blog. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hu4lDscI_oE 1. What Is This Stop Actually Costing You? Here’s something I don’t think enough people consider when planning Iceland: even a free attraction has a cost. Let’s say you’ve found an incredible waterfall. There’s no entrance fee, so technically it’s free. Except… is it? Maybe it’s 45 minutes away from the route you were already planning to drive. That’s 45 minutes to get there and potentially another 45 minutes to get back to where you would have been. Then you spend 30 or 45 minutes at the waterfall. Suddenly, your “free” waterfall has cost you more than two hours of your day. And that’s before we’ve even talked about fuel or your energy. This is why I don’t just ask, “Is this place worth visiting?” There are hundreds of places in Iceland that are worth visiting. The better question is, “Is this place worth what it costs this particular day?” That’s a completely different question. If you’re already driving right past it, fantastic. If visiting it requires a huge detour from three other things you care about more, maybe it doesn’t belong on that particular day. This is also where backtracking comes into play. Sometimes I’ll look at someone’s itinerary and they’re driving east, then west, then east again because they’ve planned individual attractions instead of planning a route. You’re paying for that mistake with your time. And in life, time is one of the most valuable things you have. 2. What Is Your Anchor during your Day? The second thing I want you to do is stop treating everything on your itinerary as equally important, because it isn’t. Ask yourself, “If I could only do one thing today, which thing would I be genuinely disappointed to miss?” That’s your anchor. Maybe you’ve wanted to hike on a glacier for ten years. Maybe your dream is soaking in the Blue Lagoon. Maybe you desperately want to see puffins. Maybe there’s a particular restaurant you’ve been dying to visit. Maybe you’re a photographer and there’s one location you specifically came to Iceland to photograph. Whatever it is, put that thing on the itinerary first. Then build around it. What I don’t want is for the thing you care about most to become something you’re rushing through because you scheduled six other attractions that day. Your anchors will also be different from somebody else’s, and that’s important. I can give you my perfect five-day Iceland itinerary. Someone else on YouTube can give you theirs. You can download 17 itineraries from Pinterest. But none of us know what your anchor is. That’s why I think starting with your priorities is so much more useful than starting with somebody else’s itinerary. 3. What Is This Experience Actually Adding to Your Trip? Here’s where I’m potentially going to offend Iceland lovers: there is such a thing as too many waterfalls. I KNOW. Coming from someone who lives in Iceland, that feels almost illegal to say.  But hear me out. Let’s say your Tuesday looks like this: waterfall, waterfall, waterfall, lunch, waterfall, waterfall. By waterfall number five, you may have reached what I am officially calling waterfall diminishing returns. It’s not that the fifth waterfall isn’t spectacular. It’s that you have limited time. Maybe instead of waterfall number five, you could visit a geothermal area. Maybe you could have an incredible Icelandic food experience, go horseback riding, visit a museum and learn something about Icelandic history, soak in a geothermal pool, or simply sit somewhere beautiful for an hour without worrying about getting to your next pin on Google Maps. When I’m thinking about an itinerary, I want to experience diversity. I don’t necessarily want to maximize the number of attractions. I want to maximize the number of different ways you experience Iceland. That’s a subtle distinction, but I think it can make a huge difference in how a trip actually feels. And to be clear, this doesn’t mean you should only visit one waterfall during your entire trip. Iceland has some incredible waterfalls that look completely different from one another. It’s about asking whether every stop is bringing something worthwhile to that particular day. Leave Room for Flexibility in Your Plans There’s one more thing that doesn’t fit neatly into those three questions: you have to leave some breathing room. Because Iceland is going to Iceland. The weather changes. Road conditions change. You see something from the road that looks incredible. You meet somebody who tells you about something you hadn’t considered. You find a café you love. You stop to photograph horses. Or you’re standing somewhere beautiful and realize, I don’t want to leave yet. A completely optimized itinerary with zero flexibility isn’t actually optimized. It’s fragile. If one thing goes wrong, the entire day collapses. So leave some space. Sometimes the best part of an Iceland trip is the thing you didn’t know to put on the itinerary. And I think this is where the whole idea of Iceland-maxxing becomes a little ironic. Sometimes the best way to maximize your trip is actually to do less. Give yourself time to stand at the waterfall. Sit by the ocean. Have lunch without staring at the clock. Pull over somewhere safely because the landscape is incredible. Build an Iceland Itinerary That Works for You If you’re reading to all of this and thinking, Okay, Jewells, this makes sense. But I have 30 places saved for Iceland and I have absolutely no idea how to turn them into an actual itinerary, that’s exactly why I created my Iceland Itinerary Blueprint. I don’t give you my perfect Iceland itinerary because my perfect trip might not be your perfect trip. Instead, I walk you through the process of figuring out your priorities, looking realistically at driving time, grouping places geographically, deciding where it makes sense to stay, and turning everything into an itinerary that actually works for your trip. Because you don’t need me to hand you my perfect Iceland itinerary. You need to know how to build yours. You can find the Iceland Itinerary Blueprint here through the link in the episode description. And there you have it. We have officially Iceland-maxxed. I still can’t believe I’m saying that. 😂 The next time you’re deciding whether to add another pin to your itinerary, remember those three questions: What’s the real cost? What’s my anchor? And what is this actually adding to my trip? If you can answer those, I think you’re already on your way to building a much better Iceland itinerary. Share this with a Friend Facebook Email Threads Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook

If you are planning a trip to Iceland in summer 2027, this is your sign to start now. Yesterday would have been better, but today is the option we have. That does not mean you should panic and book the first hotel, rental car or tour you find. In fact, booking without first understanding your route can create a completely different problem. The goal is to start planning early enough to keep your choices while making each decision in the right order. I talk with Iceland travelers almost every day through private consultations, emails, social media and the monthly Q and A for my Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland. Over the years, I have watched the summer planning window move earlier. I used to remind people in January to start planning for the upcoming summer. Now, for many travelers, especially those with fixed dates or specific accommodation needs, planning six to twelve months ahead makes much more sense. https://youtu.be/ntJLY4Q7cs0 Featured in this blog Why You Should Plan a Summer Trip to Iceland Early Summer is popular for good reason. The landscape is vibrant and green, the Highlands become accessible, puffins return, hiking opportunities expand and the midnight sun gives you extraordinarily long sightseeing days. You should not avoid summer simply because demand is high. You should plan strategically so you can experience it without paying more than necessary or settling for a trip that does not fit you. As June, July and August get closer, prices generally rise, availability shrinks and many of the best-value options disappear. Occasionally, someone cancels and a room becomes available at the last minute, but that does not mean it will return at its original price. A hotel or vacation rental may reopen the dates at a much higher rate because demand is already strong. Planning early is not only about saving money. Even if you have a generous budget, it gives you more control over the trip. Outside Reykjavík, towns such as Vík, Höfn, Mývatn and Akureyri have fewer accommodations than many travelers expect. Iceland continues to add hotels, but the countryside still has limited inventory, including a surprisingly small number of luxury properties. The best-located and best-reviewed options can fill up regardless of price. This matters even more if you need a family room, several rooms for a group, an accessible space, a kitchen, separate beds, a private bathroom or a particular price range. The more specific your needs are, the earlier you should begin. The Domino Effect of Booking Too Late in Iceland One of the most common mistakes I see is booking flights and thinking the difficult part is finished. A few months before the trip, the traveler begins searching for accommodations and discovers that the affordable, highly rated places are gone. What remains may be far from the planned route, poorly reviewed, too small for the group or simply nothing like the experience they imagined. If you are driving the Ring Road, South Coast, Golden Circle or Snæfellsnes Peninsula, your overnight location affects the entire next day. You do not just need a room somewhere in Iceland. You need the right room in the right area on the right night. Imagine that you intended to continue east but the only available accommodation requires you to backtrack. That detour adds driving time, fuel costs and fatigue. It changes when you reach the next attraction, how much time you have to explore and where you can stop to eat. A room that looked cheaper may not be a better value once the whole route is considered. Booking early gives you a better chance of choosing an overnight stay that supports your itinerary instead of forcing the itinerary to bend around whatever was left. Do Not Book Accommodation Before You Understand Your Route Early planning is important, but randomly reserving attractive hotels around the country is not a strategy. You can lock yourself into places that do not make sense for the number of days you have or the experiences you care about most. Before booking, answer these questions: How many full days will you actually have in Iceland after accounting for arrival and departure times? Which regions and experiences matter most to you? Are the places you saved located close enough to combine realistically? Will you stay primarily in Reykjavík and take day trips, or sleep in the countryside? How much driving feels comfortable for you and the other people in your group? Do you prefer slow mornings and long stops, or a faster-paced trip with more locations? If you have more than three days and plan to drive yourself, spending at least one or two nights in the countryside can help you experience more without repeatedly returning to Reykjavík. Staying in the city is not wrong, but it may be inefficient if your priorities are farther along the South Coast or in another region. Your pace matters just as much as the map. Someone who loves slow mornings, long hikes and hundreds of photos should not copy the itinerary of a traveler who enjoys leaving before sunrise and moving quickly. Online itineraries are useful for inspiration, but they were built around someone else’s energy, interests and priorities. A good Iceland itinerary should feel like your trip. The Iceland Itinerary Blueprint This workshop walks you step-by-step through how to turn all those places you’ve saved into an itinerary that actually makes sense. Follow along as I build a real 5-day Iceland itinerary and learn how to plan your route, choose where to stay overnight, avoid unnecessary backtracking, and decide how much to fit into each day. Click Here Google Maps Does Not Show Your Whole Travel Day Google Maps is an excellent planning tool, but its driving time is not the length of your sightseeing day. For example, the classic Golden Circle includes Þingvellir National Park, Gullfoss waterfall and the Geysir geothermal area. The basic drive from Reykjavík and back may appear to take roughly four hours, but you are not coming to Iceland simply to remain in the car. You need time to explore each location, eat, use the bathroom, walk from parking areas and wait for other members of your group. Icelandic weather can slow you down, and spontaneous stops are part of the experience. You may see horses, a waterfall, a viewpoint or a landscape that makes you want to pull over safely and take it in. When every day is calculated using only the minimum driving time, you either rush through the places you traveled so far to see or fall behind and spend the rest of the trip trying to catch up. The goal is not to squeeze the maximum number of pins into each day. It is to create a trip that feels good while you are living it. Build Your Iceland Itinerary Without the Overwhelm This is often the point where trip planning begins to feel like a second job. You have saved waterfalls, restaurants, hot springs and beautiful hotels, but you are unsure how to connect them without backtracking or spending most of the vacation in the car. That is exactly why I created the Iceland Itinerary Blueprint. In this 69-minute on-demand workshop, I walk you through the same planning framework I have used while helping hundreds of travelers in private consultations. You will learn how to choose the right regions, create sensible driving days, decide where to stay overnight and avoid trying to fit too much into each day. I also build a realistic five-day summer itinerary during the workshop and explain the thinking behind every decision. The point is not to copy that exact route. It is to understand the process so you can apply it to a three-day trip, ten-day trip, two-week trip or any other length. You also receive a guided planning worksheet, a printable five-day itinerary planner and lifetime access, so you can return whenever your plans change. If you want to turn all your saved Iceland ideas into a realistic route, get instant access to the Iceland Itinerary Blueprint. It is designed to help you plan independently while giving you a clear framework to follow. Which Rental Car Do You Need for Summer in Iceland If you will stay on the Ring Road and other regular roads during summer, a two-wheel-drive car is sufficient for most travelers. You do not automatically need a four-wheel-drive vehicle simply because Iceland has dramatic landscapes. Many of the rough-road images people see online were filmed in the Highlands or on mountain roads. If you plan to drive on F-roads or enter the Highlands, you need an approved four-wheel-drive vehicle and the right insurance for your route. This is another reason to understand your itinerary before reserving a car. If you have not decided whether the Highlands are part of the trip, first settle the route so you do not have to cancel and rebook. Rental cars generally do not require the same twelve-month lead time as the most sought-after countryside accommodations, but booking earlier gives you more vehicle choices. Smaller affordable cars, automatics, camper vans and popular four-wheel-drive models can become limited during summer. Before reserving, read my Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland for vehicle, insurance and road guidance. When you are ready to book, you can save 7 percent with Go Car Rental Iceland or Go Campers. Go Car rentals also include free 4G Wi-Fi through my link, while Go Campers includes a free sleeping bag. Be Realistic About Your Arrival Day Many flights from the United States leave in the evening and arrive in Iceland early the following morning. Although it is described as an overnight flight, a five- or six-hour journey is not enough time for most people to get meaningful sleep. Even if you land at six, seven or eight in the morning, you may feel reasonably a

2026 marks 10 years since I moved to Iceland, which is honestly a little hard for me to believe. I can still remember stepping off the plane, starting work, and feeling like my brain was being bombarded with things that seemed foreign or strange. Even hearing Icelandic names like Ása, Björn, and Arnbjörn took some getting used to. https://youtu.be/AKL2qYEzEkU Fast-forward a decade and so many of those things don’t even register as unusual anymore. They’re just…life. Living in another country for this long has also made me realize how much our definition of “normal” is shaped by where we grow up. Things that initially made me think, People actually do this?! are now things I barely notice, and in some cases, things I do myself. Here are 10 things that have become normal to me after living in Iceland for 10 years. 1. Letting Babies Nap Outside This might be the biggest transformation of them all because I went from thinking this was absolutely bizarre to doing it with my own baby. I learned about babies napping outside when I first visited Iceland in the winter of 2013. At the time, I couldn’t understand how people could possibly be comfortable leaving a baby outside to sleep. Then I had a baby. Halli’s mom showed us how to bundle her up properly so she could be warm while getting fresh air outside, and it completely changed the game for us. At one point, she could sleep for around three hours outside when an indoor nap might only last about 20 minutes. It’s also something you regularly see in Iceland. You can walk through residential neighborhoods or even pass cafés in downtown Reykjavík and see a stroller outside with a sleeping baby while a parent or caregiver is nearby and checking on them. Years ago, that sight would have immediately caught my attention. Now? Completely normal. 2. Thinking 60°F (15°C) Is Warm New York Jewells would like a word with current Jewells. I moved to Iceland in June 2016, and I remember seeing Icelanders walking around in shorts, T-shirts, and sandals when it was about 60°F/15°C. Meanwhile, I had on long pants, sneakers, a sweater AND a jacket. I genuinely thought, What is wrong with these people? This isn’t warm! Then something happened. I acclimated! After experiencing Icelandic winters and then feeling the temperature climb again, 60°F started feeling legitimately warm. If it’s around 60°F, sunny and, this is important, there’s no wind? That’s practically tropical now.  3. Accepting That Icelandic Summer Is Not Guaranteed Growing up in New York, summer meant something. You knew it was going to get warm. Probably hot. Possibly way too hot! Iceland technically has four seasons, but I’ve joked that we really have two: winter and summer. Halli says it’s more like winter and fall.  The bigger adjustment was realizing that just because the calendar says “summer” doesn’t mean Iceland’s weather has agreed to participate. You can have rainy, windy and chilly stretches where there’s plenty of daylight but hardly any actual sunshine. There have been summers when I felt cold for what seemed like the entire season. It’s also no surprise that plenty of Icelanders escape somewhere warmer when Iceland isn’t delivering the summer weather they want. Tenerife, anyone? Icelandic summer exists. Whether it decides to show up is another question. 4. Living With 24-Hour Daylight The nearly endless daylight of Icelandic summer is something I absolutely love now. When I first moved here? Not so much. My brain could not understand why I was supposed to be sleeping when it looked like the middle of the day outside. I tried sleeping with eye masks, but I didn’t find them particularly comfortable, and I constantly felt energized to stay awake and do things. Eventually, though, my body adjusted. After a few years, I could sleep through Icelandic summers without thinking much about the daylight outside. Now I LOVE this part of living here. Being able to go outside incredibly late at night and still have a bright sky is one of those Icelandic experiences that still feels special, even though it has become normal. 5. Living With the Very Short Days in Winter Of course, Iceland likes extremes. If summer gives us almost endless daylight, winter gives us the opposite. Around the shortest day of the year, we get only about four hours of daylight. And while the days technically start getting longer again after the winter solstice, those changes happen slowly enough that the darkness can feel like it lasts forever. My first Icelandic winter was rough! I remember feeling like I was basically holding on until winter ended so I could finally experience that release of summer again. And then came May 2017. Winter seemed to be over. I had made it! And then…it snowed. In May! I was MAD.  I felt personally betrayed by Icelandic weather. After surviving winter, snow in May felt like the weather was playing games with me. Now, I understand that unexpected weather is simply part of living here. Snow showers can happen incredibly late in the season, and Icelandic weather has a mind of its own. Over the years, I’ve also figured out what helps me through the dark months: getting outside, exercising, keeping myself occupied and usually having a big project to work on. The first couple of winters required some serious adjustment. After that, I found a rhythm that works for me 6. Having Limited Produce Options This is one thing I still REALLY notice when I leave Iceland. The variety of fruits and vegetables available here can be limited compared with what I was accustomed to in the United States. Sometimes you have a couple varieties of apples. Around Christmas, clementines and mandarins are everywhere. Other things appear periodically, but Iceland is an island that imports a significant amount of its produce, so we’re simply not going to have the same selection you’d find in a massive American supermarket. And yes, you sometimes need to inspect that produce pretty carefully. Then I go back to the U.S. and walk into a Whole Foods or Sprouts and practically lose my mind. Peaches, plums, nectarines, different varieties of apples! KALE! The kale situation in Iceland particularly gets me because I’ve seen it grown here as decoration and I’m thinking, Can you please just put it in the grocery store so I can eat it?! Still, I’ve stopped viewing the limited selection as inherently negative. It’s simply part of living on an island. And when I travel, I appreciate the variety elsewhere that much more 7. The Icelandic Stare Ohhhh, the Icelandic stare! Coming from New York, staring at strangers is generally not something you do. Then I moved to Iceland and suddenly people were LOOKING at me. Not glancing, staring! I’ve been told part of this comes from the small-town nature of Icelandic society. People might look at someone because they’re trying to figure out whether they recognize them or know their family. That took some serious getting used to. There was one experience when I lived in Árbær where a woman drove past me while practically turning her head to continue staring at me. I remember wondering whether something was happening around me before realizing, Nope. She’s looking at me. As a Black woman walking through a suburban Icelandic neighborhood, I couldn’t know whether she was simply curious, trying to recognize me, surprised to see someone who looked like me, or something else entirely. Eventually, I developed a coping mechanism: Staring contests. If you’re going to stare at me, I’m staring back. 😂 These days, though, I’ve mostly stopped noticing. I’ve got my New York blinders back on. Unless someone actually says something to me, I’m getting my groceries and going about my day. Something that once made me incredibly uncomfortable has somehow become background noise. 8. Having Children Without Being Married This was an interesting cultural shift for me because it wasn’t necessarily something I consciously decided to change my mind about. I just absorbed a different idea of what family can look like. It’s very normal in Iceland for couples to build a life together, have children and not get married until much later, or potentially not marry at all. When I first moved here, I was married and didn’t have children. After getting divorced, I certainly wasn’t thinking, I’m going to get into another relationship and have a baby before getting married. But by the time that became part of my own life, it didn’t feel particularly strange anymore. There’s even an interesting linguistic element to this. Icelanders in long-term relationships might refer to their partner as konan mín (“my woman”) or maðurinn minn (“my man”) rather than using the equivalent of boyfriend or girlfriend. People sometimes refer to unmarried partners as husband and wife in English, too, which still occasionally makes me want to clarify, We’re not married yet!  It’s another example of how living somewhere else can quietly change the assumptions you didn’t even realize you had. 9. Not Tipping Coming from the United States, this was a BIG adjustment. Tipping is ingrained into so many everyday interactions in the U.S. that when I first started visiting Iceland, I kept thinking: Wait…aren’t we supposed to leave something extra? Nope. Tipping isn’t an obligation in Iceland or expected. If you have a wonderful guide or receive excellent service and want to give someone something extra, that’s your choice. But workers aren’t standing there expecting customers to supplement their inco

Planning to rent a car in Iceland? Learn how Iceland’s new road tax works, why it was introduced, how it affects tourists, and how you can save money on your rental. I’ll also explain why not all rental car companies charge the fee the same way and share my recommendations after living in Iceland for the past 10 years. One of the biggest reasons I recommend renting a car in Iceland is the freedom it gives you. Some of my favorite memories have come from pulling over at an unexpected waterfall, taking a detour because someone mentioned a hidden canyon, or completely changing my plans after seeing that the weather was better in another part of the country. Those spontaneous moments are often the highlights of an Iceland trip. That’s why, when Iceland introduced a new road fee at the beginning of 2026, I immediately started getting questions from members of the All Things Iceland community. People wanted to know: What exactly is Iceland’s new road tax? Why did Iceland introduce the road tax fee? Does it apply to tourists? How much will it cost? Should I still rent a car? How to budget for Iceland’s new road tax fee How can you save on a rental car in Iceland? If you’ve been wondering the same thing, you’re definitely not alone. In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about Iceland’s new road fee, including why it was introduced, how it works, how it affects tourists renting cars and camper vans, how different rental companies handle the fee, and some practical ways to save money while planning your Iceland road trip. https://youtu.be/oqXebmLiA38 What Is Iceland’s New Road Tax? Although you’ll often hear people, including me, refer to it as Iceland’s new road tax, the official name is the kilometer fee, or kílómetragjald in Icelandic. The fee officially came into effect on January 1, 2026, and it’s designed to help fund Iceland’s road infrastructure in a different way than before. Under the standard government system, most passenger vehicles are charged 6.95 ISK per kilometer driven, although rates vary depending on the vehicle’s weight and classification. Unlike a toll road where you stop to pay at a booth, this fee is based on the total number of kilometers a vehicle travels. For Icelandic residents who own a vehicle, the fee is reported and paid according to government regulations. For visitors, however, the process is much simpler because your rental company handles it for you. That means you don’t have to register with the Icelandic government or report your mileage yourself. Instead, the rental company collects the fee as part of your rental agreement before paying it to the government. This is where many travelers become confused because not every rental company chooses to pass that fee on in the same way. I’ll cover that in detail a little later because understanding this difference can make budgeting your trip much easier. Experience Tip: One thing I’ve noticed after helping thousands of travelers plan trips to Iceland is that most people assume every rental company calculates this fee exactly the same way. That’s actually not the case, and knowing the difference before you book can save you both money and uncertainty when you’re planning your budget. Why Did Iceland Introduce the Kilometer Fee? Moving Away from Fuel Taxes At first glance, it’s easy to assume that Iceland simply added another fee for travelers. But the reality is a bit more nuanced. For many years, Iceland paid for a significant portion of its road maintenance through taxes on gasoline and diesel fuel. The idea was simple: the more you drove, the more fuel you purchased, and the more you contributed toward maintaining the country’s roads. That system worked well when nearly every vehicle relied on fossil fuels. However, Iceland has seen a rapid increase in hybrid and fully electric vehicles over the past several years. Those vehicles still use the roads every day, but they purchase much less, or no, gasoline or diesel. As a result, the government was collecting less revenue from fuel taxes while road maintenance costs continued to grow. The kilometer fee was introduced to create a funding system that applies more consistently across different types of vehicles, regardless of how they’re powered. As with any major policy change, it has generated plenty of discussion within Iceland. Some residents feel the reduction in fuel taxes doesn’t fully offset the new kilometer fee, while others see it as a fairer way to fund the country’s road network. For travelers, though, the most important takeaway is understanding how the fee works and how your rental company chooses to collect it, because that’s what will ultimately affect your budget. Does the Kilometer Fee Apply to Tourists? Yes. Whether you’re visiting Iceland for a long Ring Road adventure, spending a week exploring the South Coast, or taking a short getaway around Reykjavík and the Golden Circle, this new fee applies to rental vehicles. If you’re someone who loves taking scenic detours (and trust me, Iceland will tempt you to do exactly that), knowing how your rental company charges this fee can give you much more peace of mind. How Rental Car Companies Charge Iceland’s New Road Fee Some Companies Charge by the Kilometer This is probably the pricing model most travelers expect. Some rental companies simply pass the government’s kilometer fee directly on to you. When you pick up your vehicle, the current odometer reading is recorded. When you return it, the rental company calculates how many kilometers you’ve driven and charges the corresponding road fee. The benefit of this approach is that you’re paying for exactly the distance you traveled. If you only plan to drive around Reykjavík for a couple of days, this could result in a relatively small road-fee charge. The downside is that your final cost isn’t always easy to predict. If your plans change, which they often do in Iceland, you may end up driving much farther than you originally expected. Suddenly, that carefully planned travel budget starts to look a little different. Other Companies Charge a Flat Daily Road Fee Some rental companies have chosen a different approach.vRather than charging based on every kilometer driven, they charge a fixed road fee for each rental day. For example, Go Car Rental Iceland and Go Campers currently charge a mandatory road fee of €10.50 per rental day, regardless of your insurance coverage or how many kilometers you drive during your rental. Personally, I really appreciate this pricing model. One of the first things I tell people planning an Iceland trip is to leave room for spontaneity. Maybe you hear about a hidden hot spring from another traveler. Maybe someone recommends an incredible canyon that wasn’t on your itinerary. Maybe the weather forecast changes overnight, and you decide to spend the day exploring a completely different region. Those things happen all the time here. With a flat daily fee, you’re free to make those decisions without wondering whether every extra kilometer is increasing your final bill. Instead, you already know what the road-fee portion of your rental will cost before your trip even begins. For me, that kind of predictability is worth a lot. Experience Tip: I’ve changed my itinerary countless times because of Iceland’s weather. It’s one of the best travel decisions you can make here. Having a predictable daily road fee means I can focus on enjoying the adventure instead of mentally calculating extra costs every time I decide to drive somewhere new. The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland If you’re still deciding which rental car is right for your trip, I’ve created a free Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland that goes far beyond the new kilometer fee. Inside, I cover how to choose between a 2WD and a 4×4, Iceland-specific insurance recommendations, gravel roads versus F-roads, parking rules, winter driving tips, common mistakes to avoid, and much more. I recently updated it to include Iceland’s new kilometer fee, so you’ll have the latest information all in one place. Click Here Is Renting a Car Is Still One of the Best Ways to Explore Iceland? Absolutely. Even with this additional cost, I still believe renting a car is the best way to experience Iceland for most visitors. One of the things I love most about living here is that Iceland constantly rewards curiosity. Some of the country’s most memorable places aren’t found on a typical itinerary. They’re discovered because you decided to stop at an overlook, follow a sign pointing toward a waterfall, or take a scenic detour after chatting with another traveler. Having your own vehicle gives you that freedom. You’re not rushing to catch a tour bus, worrying about train schedules, or feeling like you have to leave somewhere just because everyone else is. Instead, you can experience Iceland at your own pace. That’s something I think is incredibly valuable. Of course, the new kilometer fee does add another expense to your trip. But in the grand scheme of an Iceland vacation, I don’t think it’s a reason to avoid renting a car altogether. Instead, it’s simply another cost to understand and plan for before you arrive. Experience Tip: Some of my favorite days in Iceland have been the ones where I threw my original itinerary out the window because the weather was better somewhere else. That kind of flexibility is difficult to put a price on, and it’s one of the biggest reasons I continue recommending rental cars over guided tours for many travelers. Budgeting for the Iceland’s New Road Tax No matter which pricing model your rental company uses, my advice is simple: Plan for the r

After eight months of maternity leave in Iceland, I’m finally back to work. Looking back, I can honestly say that this experience has given me an entirely new appreciation for Iceland’s parental leave system. Before becoming a mom, I had so many questions. Would I qualify since I own my own business? How would my payments be calculated? How much time would I actually get with Eva? And what would maternity leave even feel like? In this episode/blog, I’m sharing both how parental leave works in Iceland and my personal experience navigating it as a first-time mom. https://youtu.be/BzbZjLI2-xo How Parental Leave Works in Iceland One of the things I love most about Iceland’s parental leave system is that it’s designed for both parents. Each parent is entitled to six months of parental leave, giving families a total of twelve months together. Parents also have the option to transfer up to six weeks of their leave to one another, while still encouraging both parents to spend meaningful time bonding with their child. Another aspect I really appreciate is the flexibility. Parents can spread their leave out and use it until the child turns two years old. In our family, I decided to take my leave all at once, while Halli took the first three months immediately after Eva was born. He still has additional leave remaining that he plans to use before she turns two. For me, this flexibility is one of the strongest parts of Iceland’s system because every family’s needs are different. My Experience Taking Leave as a Self-Employed Business Owner One of my biggest concerns before having Eva was whether I would qualify for parental leave since I own my own company. Even though I’m the only employee at All Things Iceland, I still pay all of the required employer contributions, including payments into Iceland’s parental leave fund, known as the Fæðingarorlofssjóður. One important difference for self-employed people is how parental leave payments are calculated. Instead of looking at recent monthly wages like traditional employees, self-employed parents have their payments calculated using their average income from the previous tax year. It was fascinating learning how that process worked, and thankfully everything went smoothly for me. Even so, it made me realize how important it is for self-employed people to understand these rules before planning parental leave. Why I Chose Eight Months Instead of Six Although I technically had six months of paid leave, I decided to spread those payments across eight months. That meant receiving smaller monthly payments while allowing me to stay home with Eva for longer. For me, six months simply didn’t feel like enough. Maybe it was because I wanted to experience more of Iceland’s brighter spring and summer months with her, or maybe I simply wasn’t ready to jump back into work. Whatever the reason, I’m incredibly grateful that Iceland gave me the flexibility to make that decision. Understanding the Parental Leave Payments in Iceland Parental leave in Iceland isn’t intended to fully replace a person’s salary. Instead, the goal is to provide financial support so parents can spend meaningful time with their child during those first months. One thing that surprised me was seeing how taxes and pension contributions affected my monthly payments. While the payment calculations were straightforward, it reminded me that the advertised amount is before taxes are deducted. Overall, though, I appreciated having financial support while focusing on recovery and motherhood. Applying for Parental Leave in Iceland One thing that pleasantly surprised me was how straightforward the application process was. Everything is completed online through Ísland.is, making the system relatively simple to navigate. Since I work for myself, I also involved my accountant to make sure all of my paperwork was submitted correctly. I decided to begin my maternity leave before Eva’s due date so I could prepare our home, finish work projects, and mentally transition into motherhood. Looking back, giving myself that extra time before she arrived was one of the best decisions I made. What 8 Months of Maternity Leave Was Really Like Before Eva was born, I honestly had no idea what maternity leave would feel like. The beginning of my leave was a combination of overwhelming joy and genuine struggle. After an emergency C-section, recovering physically while learning how to care for a newborn was incredibly challenging. I had also gained more than 60 pounds during pregnancy, so my body had a lot of healing to do. One of the greatest blessings during those early months was having my mom come to Iceland to live with us for Eva’s first three months. She cooked, cleaned, did laundry, and helped care for all of us. Looking back, I don’t know what we would have done without her. Having Halli home during those first months made an enormous difference as well. Those early weeks together as a family are memories I’ll always treasure. Recovery doesn’t happen overnight. Learning how to become a parent doesn’t happen overnight either. That’s why I believe parental leave is so incredibly valuable. Returning to Work in Iceland After Eight Months of Maternity Leave Although my maternity leave has officially ended, life certainly hasn’t returned to what it looked like before becoming a mom. Eva is still home with me, and I’ve built a hybrid work schedule that allows me to continue running All Things Iceland while spending quality time with her. A babysitter helps a few hours each day while I work from home, allowing me to continue creating videos, recording podcasts, consulting with travelers, and developing resources for people planning trips to Iceland. Some days everything works beautifully. Other days, absolutely nothing goes according to plan. I’ve learned that motherhood is constantly changing, and just when I think I’ve figured everything out, Eva reaches another milestone and we’re adapting all over again. My Biggest Takeaway Looking back, these eight months went by much faster than I ever imagined. Before becoming a mom, eight months sounded like a really long time. Now it feels like it passed in the blink of an eye. I’m deeply grateful that Iceland gave me the opportunity to spend this time healing, bonding with Eva, and gradually finding my footing as a new parent. No parental leave system is perfect, but I genuinely appreciate that Iceland recognizes the importance of giving families meaningful time together during such an important chapter of life. Random Fact of the Episode Did you know that Iceland is consistently ranked among the world’s most family-friendly countries? UNICEF has recognized Iceland as one of the top countries for family-friendly policies thanks to its generous paid parental leave and support for working parents. Icelandic Word of the Episode Fæðingarorlofssjóður (Parental Leave Fund) This is the government fund that pays parental leave benefits in Iceland. As someone who owns my own business, my company contributes to this fund just like other employers do, which is why I was eligible for parental leave as a self-employed parent. Share this with a Friend Facebook Email Threads Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir aðhlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

Over the last decade of living in Iceland, I’ve taken numerous solo trips around the country, including several solo camper van adventures. My very first solo camper van trip was a two-week Ring Road journey in May 2022, and it taught me more than I ever expected. I was excited, nervous, anxious, and completely ready to see what Iceland would feel like on my own. Since then, I’ve helped countless travelers plan their Iceland adventures through private consultations, and I’ve noticed the same questions and concerns come up repeatedly for people considering solo camper van travel. Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or simply looking for practical advice, these are 21 of my biggest lessons, mistakes, tips, and honest thoughts after years of exploring Iceland on my own. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVLaVg5G618 The 21 Tips I Share About Taking a Solo Camper Van Trip in Iceland Why a Heater Is Essential in an Iceland Camper Van How to Keep Yourself and Your Belongings Safe The Security Mistake Most Travelers Don’t Think About Why Good Insurance Can Save You Thousands Don’t Forget a Portable Charger Learn a Few Icelandic Phrases Before You Go Master the Art of Layering for Iceland’s Weather Packing Cubes Are a Camper Van Game-Changer Choosing the Right Camper Van Size What Comes Included in Most Iceland Camper Vans Surviving Middle-of-the-Night Bathroom Runs Why Water Shoes Deserve a Spot in Your Bag Bring Your Favorite Snacks From Home Not All Iceland Campsites Are Created Equal Visit Local Swimming Pools for Relaxation and Connection Cooking in a Camper Van Is Better Than You Think How to Avoid Expensive Speeding Tickets Check Weather and Road Conditions Every Day Exploring Iceland’s Highlands as a Solo Traveler Where You Can (and Can’t) Camp in Iceland Why Solo Travel in Iceland Is Truly Transformative Resources for Planning Your Iceland Camper Van Trip The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland  Iceland Discount Code Bundle – save loads while exploring Iceland The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland Private Iceland Trip Consultations 1. Rent a Camper Van with a Heater Even during summer, Iceland can get surprisingly cold at night. A heater can make the difference between a miserable night and a comfortable one. I personally use the Go Lite Camper from Go Campers, and I run the heater almost every trip, even in July and August. Since you’re traveling alone, you don’t have another person helping generate body heat inside the van, so staying warm becomes even more important. 2. Always Lock Your Van Iceland is incredibly safe, but that doesn’t mean you should be careless. Whenever I left my van, even for a quick bathroom run, I locked it. I also locked it while sleeping at night. Most thefts are avoidable by keeping valuables out of sight and securing your vehicle properly. 3. Protect Your Personal Belongings While camper van break-ins are uncommon, pickpocketing can happen in busy tourist areas such as Reykjavík and popular Golden Circle attractions. It’s sad to say that pickpocketing has increased in recent years, so you have to be vigilant with securing your personal items in your backpacks or pockets.  Keep your bag zipped, valuables secure, and never leave important items visible.  This doesn’t happen on a massive scale in Iceland but it is happening enough that I have to talk about it. As a solo travel, you don’t have anyone else to look out for you, which can make you an easier target. 4. Get the Best Insurance You Can Afford This is one area where I recommend not cutting corners. Sand and ash protection is especially important in Iceland. Strong winds can cause serious damage to vehicles, and repairs can become very expensive if you aren’t properly covered. While this does apply to everyone who rents a car or camper van in Iceland, I feel it is very important for solo traveling because you are bearing the full cost on your own if something happens to the vehicle. Better to be protected than to be surprised with a big bill later on for damage that was not covered. Check what your credit card covers, but don’t assume it includes Iceland-specific risks.  Save Money on Your Iceland Camper Van Rental You can use my discount link to save 7% on your camper van rental with Go Campers and receive a free sleeping bag. I use their cars and campers when I travel around Iceland, and I’ve partnered with them for over 4 years now. The main reasons? Their customer service is amazing, and they have a wide range of vehicles to choose from. When you click on my discount link (https://www.gocampers.is/?ref=allthingsiceland), choose the dates for your travel and the 7% discount will automatically be applied. Choose a sleeping bag under the “extras” section, and the total price won’t increase. And just so you know, using my link gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s one of the ways you’re supporting All Things Iceland and the content I create. Thank you in advance for that. 5. Bring a Portable Charger Your phone becomes your camera, GPS, communication device, and safety tool while traveling. A portable battery pack (power bank) has saved me numerous times when filming content or spending long days on trails. Plus, it is always necessary to have a charged device just in case you need to call for help, especially when traveling solo. Here is an affordable power bank option. 6. Learn a Few Icelandic Phrases Even simple phrases like: Góðan daginn (Good day) Takk fyrir (Thank you) can create meaningful interactions with locals. One of my favorite memories was chatting with a farmer in North Iceland who was genuinely excited that I was attempting to speak Icelandic. It certainly is not necessary to do this but a little goes a long way, in this instance. It was nice to be able to connect with Icelanders along the way, when I felt uop to socializing. 7. Learn How to Layer Properly Iceland’s weather changes constantly. A proper layering system should include: Moisture-wicking base layer Insulating layer Windproof and waterproof outer layer Hiking pants Sturdy boots This helps you stay comfortable without overpacking. You can find all of the essentials to pack in my free Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland. 8. Use Packing Cubes Packing cubes completely changed my camper van experience. Instead of digging through piles of clothes, everything stays organized and easy to find. When you’re living in a small space, even on your own, organization matters. My trip felt much more enjoyable because I could easily find clothes when I needed to, so I could continue on my adventure. These packing cubes are great! 9. Choose the Right Size Camper Van In my opinion, the size of your camper van does matter. Just because you are one person, doesn’t mean that the smallest size is the most suitable. I personally prefer a mid-sized camper van because it offers enough space to be comfortable while remaining easy to drive and park. I absolutely loved the ability to convert the bed into a table is especially useful during bad weather. It is work to make the conversion but it is totally doable as a solo traveler. 10. Know What Equipment Comes with Your Van Many camper vans already come with many things you need. The Go Lite Camper  that I frequently used and the other camper vans from Go Campers include: Portable stove Pots and pans Plates and utensils Electric cooler Running water sink Knowing what’s already included prevents unnecessary packing, and makes your solo traveling experience much easier. 11. Prepare for Cold Middle-of-the-Night Bathroom Runs This might be the least glamorous part of camper van life. I dreaded getting out of the van in the middle of the night to use the bathroom but I couldn’t avoid it. For those who don’t know, summer in Iceland can mean a high of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The evenings are normally chillier, so I figured out a strategy that works for me when it comes to these late night bathroom runs. Being warm and cozy inside your sleeping bag makes those late-night bathroom trips feel much harder. My solution: Park close to the bathroom Keep shoes near the door Have a sweater ready Bring your keys and phone I always locked my van when I left it, even in the middle of the night. Once, I got back in the van, I locked it again, because it made me feel secure knowing no one can get in the van while I slept. 12. Pack Water Shoes I learned this lesson the hard way. While visiting a hot spring in the Westfjords, I slipped and cut my toe. That was in the beginning of my first solo travel journey, and it sucked! It is not fun for that to happen, in general, but as a solo traveler, I was the only one there to take care of me. Yes, accidents can happen but some can be avoided. Bringing water shoes is added in protection from the elements, especially in natural hot springs. Water shoes provide: Better grip Foot protection Added safety at natural hot springs They’re now a permanent part of my packing list. Here are some water shoes that work well for Iceland. 13. Bring Your Favorite Snacks Travel fatigue is real. As a solo traveler, you are the only one making all of the decisions, cooking all the meals, doing the driving, and so on. Sometimes, you are too tired to make a full meal and if the weather is acting up, you might be in your van for a while. Having familiar snacks helps when you’re tired, hungry, or simply don’t feel l

What if your next trip to Iceland could do more than create unforgettable memories? In this episode, I sit down with Anne Peters and geologist Johannes Marteinn from Katla UNESCO Global Geopark to explore one of the most fascinating experiences I’ve ever had in Iceland: science-backed expeditions where everyday travelers help collect real scientific data. The best part? You don’t need any scientific experience. If you can hike, take photos, or learn to use simple equipment, you can contribute to research that’s helping scientists better understand Iceland’s rapidly changing landscapes. In this episode What “citizen science” really means How anyone can participate in real scientific research in Iceland My experience collecting glacier, dead ice, and coastline data Why Katla Geopark is one of Iceland’s most geologically diverse regions How scientists monitor glaciers, dead ice, and coastal erosion What happens to the data after each expedition Why these small-group adventures are designed with sustainability in mind https://youtu.be/VxqVdGRYnak Some surprising facts you’ll learn about Iceland Katla UNESCO Global Geopark covers nearly 10% of Iceland. Parts of Iceland’s South Coast are eroding by an average of about five meters every year. During one storm in 2022, scientists measured up to 100 meters (328 feet) of coastline disappearing in a single event. Participants receive reports, updates showing how their measurements contribute to ongoing research, and a certification of completion.  Save 10% on your own Citizen Scientist Expedition in Iceland If you’d like to experience one of these science-backed expeditions yourself, you can save 10% by using my code JEWELLS when booking through Katla UNESCO Global Geopark. Here is the expeditions – https://www.katlageopark.com/about-katla/research/science-driven-expeditions/ I genuinely loved taking part in these expeditions because I wasn’t just admiring Iceland’s incredible landscapes, I was helping researchers collect information that contributes to understanding how Iceland is changing. It completely transformed the way I think about travel, and I hope this conversation inspires you to experience Iceland in a whole new way as a citizen scientist. Share this with a Friend Facebook Email Threads Pinterest Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

Learning Icelandic can honestly feel overwhelming. If you’ve ever tried to learn the language, you probably already know that there are a lot of scattered resources online, different classes, private tutors, apps, YouTube videos, grammar books, and random websites that may or may not help depending on your learning style. One of the questions I get asked the most is how to actually learn Icelandic and what resources are worthwhile. Why I Wanted to Try Icelandic AI When I first heard about a program called Icelandic AI, I was really intrigued. Not because I thought it would magically make anyone fluent overnight, but because I was curious whether there was finally one platform that could bring many of these learning tools together in a more organized and comprehensive way. Just for some context, I’ve been living in Iceland since 2016, so almost 10 years now. I’m at an intermediate level in Icelandic, and over the years I’ve taken multiple Icelandic classes, worked with private tutors, studied on my own, and I regularly speak Icelandic with my boyfriend and his family. So while I’m definitely not claiming to be fluent, I do feel like I have a good understanding of what makes a language-learning resource actually useful. I also want to be transparent that I am collaborating with Icelandic AI in the sense that I reached out to them because I wanted access to the platform to test it out and share my thoughts with my audience. However, this is not a paid review, and I do not benefit financially if people sign up through the platform. I genuinely just wanted to see if this was a resource worth recommending because I know how difficult it can be to figure out where to even start with Icelandic. First Impressions of the Icelandic AI Platform Overall, I have to say that Icelandic AI is one of the more comprehensive Icelandic-learning platforms I’ve seen so far. The platform was created by Sandra, and the “AI” part of the name is actually referring to her AI twin or clone. So instead of it being like ChatGPT or Claude where the AI is actively learning you and responding dynamically, it’s more that Sandra has created an AI version of herself that guides you through the lessons using her voice and likeness. There are also additional AI characters named Monica and Oscar who help throughout the platform as well. At the time of recording this episode, I’ve completed about 55% of Level 1, which has already taken me around 49 hours, and I’ve also started Level 2. Even as someone who already has background knowledge in Icelandic, I’ve still found it useful as a review tool and as a way to reinforce concepts I’ve already learned. One thing I also appreciate is that the platform doesn’t feel rushed or surface level. There’s a lot of depth built into it, and you can tell that a huge amount of work went into organizing the information in a structured way. It’s not just random vocabulary words thrown at you. There’s an actual progression to how concepts are introduced and built upon over time. Now let’s get into the pros and cons. The Pros of the Icelandic AI Learning Platform 1. The platform is extremely comprehensive All of the core things you need to learn Icelandic are included: grammar, conjugation, sentence structure, pronunciation, vocabulary, and the four Icelandic cases. There is a lot of depth to the lessons. 2. It’s easy to access and flexible You can work through the lessons on your own time and from anywhere. Right now it works best on a computer, but they mentioned they are working on a mobile-friendly version as well. 3. It can potentially be reimbursed through Icelandic unions If you live and work in Iceland and are part of a union, there’s a possibility you can use your educational reimbursement funds toward the course because it has educational certification. 4. There’s a community section The platform has a community tab where you can ask questions and interact with the Icelandic AI team, which is helpful when you need clarification. 5. There are pronunciation checks You can record yourself speaking into your microphone and the platform gives feedback in the form of a percentage score from 0–100 based on pronunciation accuracy. I actually found this surprisingly useful. 6. The platform is visually engaging The lessons are interactive, visually appealing, and easy to follow. There are a lot of graphics and clickable elements that make it feel more engaging than just staring at blocks of text. 7. The lessons are well organized The progression makes sense. You start with greetings and introductions, then move into present tense and foundational concepts before building into more advanced grammar and sentence structure. 8. There is a huge amount of material Honestly, there is a lot in here. It can feel a little overwhelming at first, but in a good way. You’re definitely not going to run out of things to study anytime soon. 9. There are quizzes and flashcards The platform includes quizzes, review sections, and flashcards to help reinforce what you’ve learned. 10. You receive a certificate of completion At the end of the levels, you receive a certificate showing you completed the coursework, which is a nice touch. One thing I kept thinking while going through the lessons was that I really wish something like this had existed when I first started learning Icelandic years ago. Back then, I felt like I was constantly piecing together resources from all over the internet. This feels much more centralized and organized, which can make a huge difference for beginners who don’t even know where to start. The Cons of the Icelandic AI Learning Platform 1. It’s not conversational AI This is probably the most important thing to understand going into the platform. The AI is not actively talking back and forth with you the way ChatGPT or Claude would. Sandra’s AI twin guides you through lessons, but it’s not a live conversational experience. 2. You still need conversation practice outside the platform If your goal is becoming conversational, you’ll still need to practice speaking with real people outside of Icelandic AI, whether that’s friends, tutors, classmates, or language exchange partners. 3. The pronunciation feedback could be improved While the pronunciation checker is helpful, I do wish it played back your voice or directly compared your pronunciation to a native speaker’s recording. I think that would make the feedback even more useful. 4. You need to be self-motivated Because this is self-paced, it requires discipline. Unlike in-person classes where there’s accountability and scheduled meetings, you have to consistently show up for yourself and stay committed. 5. Advanced learners may need to wait for more content Right now the platform includes Levels 1 through 3, and I’ve heard more levels are coming. But if you’re already intermediate or advanced, you may move through the current material fairly quickly and have to wait for additional content. My Overall Thoughts I’ve genuinely enjoyed using Icelandic AI, and I plan to continue going through the lessons because I think it’s a really valuable review tool even at my current level. At the same time, I still don’t believe there’s one perfect resource that can fully teach you Icelandic on its own. I think learning this language usually requires a combination of resources, consistency, practice, and patience. But as far as comprehensive platforms go, Icelandic AI is definitely one of the better ones I’ve personally seen. I also think it’s important to remember that learning Icelandic is a long-term process. This is not an “I studied for two weeks and now I’m fluent” type of language. It takes repetition, exposure, practice, and patience. So having a resource that keeps everything organized and accessible in one place can genuinely be really helpful. If you want to check it out for yourself, here is the link to Icelandic AI. As always, it’s completely up to you, but hopefully hearing my experience gives you a better idea of whether it might fit your learning style and goals. Random Fact of the Episode One random fact about the Icelandic language is that Icelandic has changed so little over time that modern Icelanders can still read the medieval Icelandic sagas written hundreds of years ago with relatively little difficulty. Compared to English, which has changed dramatically over the centuries, Icelandic has remained incredibly well preserved, which is one of the reasons why the language is both fascinating and challenging to learn. Icelandic Word of the Episode The Icelandic word of the episode is “Æfa sig”, which means “to practice.” And honestly, I think that’s one of the biggest lessons when it comes to learning Icelandic. There’s no perfect app, no perfect teacher, and no perfect method. A lot of it really comes down to consistently practicing, even when the language feels difficult or awkward. Share this with a Friend Pinterest Facebook Email Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

I sat down with an inspiring Venezuelan-born entrepreneur, Valenttina Griffin, who has made Iceland her home. Through a lively conversation, Valenttina shares her experiences of navigating different cultures, thriving in the tech industry, and her entrepreneurial journey that spans multiple continents. Join us as we explore her insights on leadership, the power of community, and the importance of personal growth. Valenttina’s Journey Across Borders Valenttina’s journey began in Venezuela, where she enjoyed a tropical, sun-filled upbringing surrounded by strong women and positive role models. She fondly recalls the freedom of her childhood and notes the cultural contrast when she moved to Norway as an exchange student in the early 2000s. Her adventurous spirit and curiosity led her to embrace this transition. Learning the Norwegian language and culture opened doors for her, eventually helping her adapt quickly when she moved to Iceland. https://youtu.be/O2q2l8V1bdU Save 25% on Your Stay at Center Hotels in Reykjavík The sponsor of this episode is Center Hotels, a collection of nine stylish hotels located throughout downtown Reykjavík. Whether you want to stay close to the harbor, shopping streets, restaurants, nightlife, or some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, there’s a location that fits your travel style. I’ve partnered with Center Hotels to offer my audience an exclusive 25% discount when booking directly through their website using the code ATI25 at checkout. The code is valid through May 2026, making it a great opportunity to save on your stay while experiencing some of the most conveniently located hotels in Reykjavík. Adapting to Icelandic Culture Life in Iceland was quite different. Valenttina immersed herself in the local culture, learned the Icelandic language, and embraced the insular lifestyle. She reflects on the warmth of Venezuelan interactions, marked by hugs and close personal contact, contrasting sharply with the reserved nature of Icelanders who value personal space. Yet, the support she received from the Icelandic community has been invaluable, helping her form a deep connection with her new home. Women in Tech: Establishing a Supportive Network* As a woman in the tech industry, Valenttina shares her personal experiences and challenges in navigating a male-dominated field. She is part of Women Tech Iceland, an organization that provides a platform for women to feel safe and share their stories. Valenttina emphasizes the importance of recognition for women in tech and the need for creating role models for future generations. The group facilitates events that foster community support and networking opportunities, bridging the gap between Icelandic and foreign professionals. Cultural Insights and Leadership Challenges Valenttina Griffin discusses the nuances of working in Icelandic companies and how she manages cultural differences. She has witnessed firsthand the challenges of integration for foreign women in the workforce, highlighting language as a significant barrier. Despite these challenges, she credits her success to the Icelandic language skills and cultural understanding, which have helped her build trust and rapport in leadership roles. Valenttina’s Approach to Embracing Personal Growth and Neuroplasticity Beyond her professional achievements, Valenttina is passionate about neuroscience and neuroplasticity. She believes in the power of personal growth and continuously adapting to change. Her advice to women, and to anyone seeking growth, is to love themselves, set healthy boundaries, and not ignore red flags in personal or professional relationships. These principles guide her as she navigates her entrepreneurial journey and raises her family in Iceland. Launching UGrow: Revolutionizing the Service Industry in Iceland Valenttina’s latest venture,  UGrow, focuses on optimizing recruitment processes within the Icelandic service industry. This initiative aims to streamline seasonal hiring, ensuring that both employees and employers are well-matched and meet legal standards. By doing so, Valenttina hopes to improve the experience for foreign workers and support the thriving tourism sector in Iceland. A Vision for a Diverse and Welcoming Iceland Through her work with Women Tech Iceland and You Grow, Valenttina is helping shape a more inclusive and diverse Iceland. She envisions a future where international talent is integrated seamlessly into Icelandic society and where everyone is encouraged to embrace change and growth. This conversation is not only a testament to Valenttina’s strength and adaptability but also an inspiration for anyone looking to explore new horizons and make a difference in their communities. Share this with a Friend Facebook Email Threads Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook

Along with hearing about volcanoes, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and gorgeous landscapes, one of the biggest things people associate with Iceland is how expensive it is. And honestly, that conversation comes up constantly. It’s one of the most common questions when I am helping travelers planning their first trip here. Iceland has built a reputation online for being adventurous and fascinating, but also very expensive. And to be fair, it absolutely can be. Publications like Travel + Leisure have even ranked Iceland among the most expensive travel destinations in the world. From my perspective as someone who has lived in Iceland since 2016 and helped thousands of travelers through my podcast, social media channels, private consultations, and my in-depth video course, The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland, what stands out to me is this: most people don’t create a realistic budget for Iceland. Inside This 5-Day Iceland Budget Guide Knowing where to start with Budgeting for 5-days in Iceland Why the Season You Visit Changes Your Entire Budget What Kind of Iceland Experience Do You Want? Flights to Iceland Accommodations: The Biggest Budget Variable Rental Cars & Iceland’s New Road Tax How to Save on Renting a Car and Camper Van in Iceland The Hidden Iceland Expense Most Travelers Forget: Parking Fees Food Costs in Iceland Activities & Tours: What to Expect Use Discount Codes Strategically to Save Money Unexpected Costs Realistic 5-Day Iceland Budgets by Season Winter Budget Breakdown Shoulder Season Budget Breakdown Summer Budget Breakdown Knowing Where to Start with Budgeting a 5-day Trip for Iceland I think that people don’t always create a realistic budget for Iceland because they don’t know where to start. Travelers are often unsure about  how much to set aside for accommodations, activities, rental cars, food, parking, or even how much the season changes everything. So instead of just throwing random numbers at you, I want to walk you through how I would personally budget for a 5-day trip to Iceland depending on your travel style, the season, and the choices you make while you’re here. Because the reality is that a 5-day trip to Iceland could cost one person around $1,300 and another person over $4,000 — and both of them could still have incredible experiences. The Season You Visit Iceland Changes Everything If there’s one thing I really want travelers to understand before budgeting for Iceland, it’s this: the season you visit impacts almost every single part of your trip. That includes accommodations, rental cars, flights, activities, and even how you spend your time while traveling. I’m honestly not exaggerating when I say that the exact same hotel room can literally double or triple in price depending on the month. For example, a hotel room that costs around $120 per night in winter can easily jump to $250–350 per night in summer. Same room. Same location. Same hotel. The only thing that changed is the season. Now, I don’t say that to scare anyone. There are also unique events that can create unusually high prices, like the 2026 total solar eclipse in Iceland, where some accommodations are charging thousands of dollars per night because demand is so intense. That’s not the normal reality for Iceland travel, but it does show how much seasonality and demand affect pricing here. Rental cars work exactly the same way. In summer, demand skyrockets, and travelers are often shocked by how quickly prices increase if they wait too long to book. What Kind of Iceland Experience Do You Want? Another huge part of budgeting for Iceland is understanding the type of trip you actually want to have. I think social media sometimes makes this harder because people see inspiration online and accidentally start comparing their budget to someone else’s completely different trip. Maybe you want to see the Northern Lights, but you’re planning to come in summer, which, by the way, isn’t possible because the sun barely sets. Maybe you want to base yourself in Reykjavík and do day trips, or maybe you want to road trip around the country and stay in multiple places. Perhaps you want to rent a camper van or stay in luxury hotels for part of the trip because you’re celebrating something special. All of those decisions affect your budget. One thing I regularly help people understand during my private video consultations is that Iceland often looks much smaller on the map than it actually is once you start driving around it. For example, if someone wants to stay in Reykjavík the whole trip but also drive to Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, I explain that this is about a five-hour drive one way. That’s ten hours of driving in a single day before you even stop at waterfalls, black sand beaches, or anywhere else along the route. That’s why route planning matters so much in Iceland, not only for your sanity but also for your budget. Flights to Iceland – Cost per Season Flights to Iceland fluctuate constantly depending on the season, where you’re flying from, how early you book, and global fuel prices. For winter, flights are often around $400–700 roundtrip, while summer flights can range from $600–1,200 or even higher. And honestly, airfare pricing lately has become even harder to predict because of global fuel market instability and international conflicts affecting energy prices. Those things trickle into airline pricing too, so whenever I give ranges for Iceland travel costs, I always want people to understand that these numbers are based on averages and trends, not guarantees. One thing I personally recommend is signing up for airline email lists, like Icelandair or Delta Air Lines, because they regularly send flight sales. I also use Google Flights to track pricing trends, and you’d honestly be surprised how much prices can fluctuate from one week to another. Accommodations in Iceland: The Biggest Budget Variable Accommodation is usually where people underestimate costs the most. For budget accommodations like hostels, guesthouses, smaller rooms, or shared bathroom situations, you’re generally looking at around $400–700 total for five nights in winter and about $700–1,400+ in summer. For mid-range accommodations, such as private hotel rooms, apartments, or guesthouses with private bathrooms, winter pricing is usually somewhere around $700–1,400 for five nights, while summer can jump to $1,200–2,000+. And yes, summer pricing really can get that high. If you’re considering a camper van, that can sometimes help reduce accommodation costs, though prices vary dramatically depending on the vehicle and the season. I always recommend booking accommodations as early as possible for summer travel. Honestly, if you can plan a year in advance, that’s ideal. Six months minimum is usually what I suggest if possible. Rental Cars Cost & Iceland’s New Road Tax If you’re planning to leave Reykjavík, I strongly recommend considering a rental car because it gives you so much flexibility. Winter rental prices for a smaller car are often around $120–150 per day, while SUVs are closer to $170–180 per day. In summer, smaller cars can easily be $150–200+, and SUVs can go even higher depending on the size and capability of the vehicle. For a five-day trip, many travelers spend somewhere between $600–1,200+ once you include gas and insurance. And there’s another thing travelers now need to budget for. Starting in 2026, Iceland implemented a kilometer-based road tax system that applies to vehicles, including rental cars. Iceland Kilometer Fee Information Most travelers won’t calculate this themselves because rental companies typically include it either as a per-kilometer fee or as a flat daily charge. For example, Go Car Rental Iceland currently charges approximately €10.50 per day as a flat mandatory road tax fee. Fuel prices in Iceland have lowered somewhat since the road tax was introduced, but global events still impact fuel pricing significantly. How to Save on Renting a Car & Camper Van in Iceland Through my discount links with Go Car Rental Iceland and Go Campers, you can save 7% on your rental. Go Car also includes free 4G WiFi, while Go Campers includes a free sleeping bag. And honestly, the WiFi is incredibly useful because you can check weather, road conditions, maps, email, WhatsApp, and social media while driving around Iceland You can head to gorentals.is/allthingsiceland Once you enter your travel dates, the 7% discount is automatically applied. For Go Car: When you get to the extras section, select 4G WiFi. You’ll see the price stays the same, even though it has been added.  For Go Campers: Choose a sleeping bag under the “extras” section, and same thing, the total price won’t increase. And just so you know, using my link gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s one of the ways you’re supporting All Things Iceland and the content I create. So thank you for that. The Hidden Expense in Iceland that Most Travelers Forget: Parking Fees Many waterfalls, black sand beaches, scenic viewpoints, geothermal areas, and hiking spots now charge for parking. This is especially in popular areas like the Golden Circle, South Coast, Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and downtown Reykjavík. I’ve seen this change a lot over the years since I moved here in 2016. There were many places that used to have completely free parking, but because of the increase in tourism, road maintenance, parking lot maintenance, and of course landowners wanting to make money, parking fees have become much more common. I usually recommend budgeting around $80 USD total for parki

There are places in Iceland that are easy to visit. And then there are places that require a bit more effort, but reward you in ways you honestly don’t expect. I’m sharing 5 places across the country that are absolutely worth the detour. These aren’t your typical Golden Circle stops. These are the kinds of places that make people say: “Wait… THIS was in Iceland?!” If you’re planning a trip and want to go beyond the basics, this list is for you. Table of Contents How to Reach These Places (Car & Camper Van Tips) Látrabjarg (Westfjords) Seyðisfjörður (East Iceland) Hveradalir (Highlands) Plan Your Trip with My Iceland Map Westman Islands / Vestmannaeyjar (South Iceland) Siglufjörður (North Iceland) Sample Route Using These 5 Detours Random Fact of the Episode Icelandic Word of the Episode How to Reach These Places (And Save on Your Rental) Let’s be real for a second. To visit places like these, especially the Westfjords, Highlands, and North Iceland, you’ll need your own vehicle. Public transport won’t get you to most of these locations, and guided tours often don’t go this far off the beaten path. That’s where having the right rental car or camper van makes all the difference. I personally use and recommend: Go Car Rental Iceland Go Campers I’ve partnered with them for years because: They have a wide variety of vehicles (from small cars to fully equipped campers) Their customer service is amazing And they make it easy to travel around Iceland confidently How to Save + Get Free Extras When you use my link: gorentals.is/allthingsiceland You’ll automatically get: 7% off your rental Plus some really helpful extras Here’s exactly what to do: For Go Car Rental: Click the link and enter your travel dates The 7% discount is automatically applied When you get to “Insurance & Extras” Select 4G WiFi You’ll see the price does not increase, it stays the same For Go Campers: Click the same link and choose your camper The 7% discount is automatically applied Under the “Sleeping” section Select a sleeping bag Again, the price stays the same It’s one of those little things that makes a big difference when you’re traveling around Iceland. 1. Látrabjarg (Westfjords) If you’re craving something remote, raw, and wildly beautiful, this is it. Látrabjarg is the westernmost point of Iceland, and is known for its dramatic sea cliffs and incredible birdlife. Why Látrabjarg worth the detour: One of the best places in Iceland to see puffins up close Massive cliffs stretching for kilometers A true “edge of the world” feeling Important tips: The road can be rough, so take it slow Best visited in summer (June–mid August for puffins) Not recommended in winter, late fall or early spring. You can use a 2wd to get here but a 4×4 makes the trip easier and smoother. This is exactly the type of destination where having the right vehicle matters. 2. Seyðisfjörður (East Iceland) This town feels like stepping into a completely different side of Iceland. The drive into Seyðisfjörður alone is unforgettable. The winding road down a mountain pass into a peaceful fjord surrounded by waterfalls is incredible. What makes Seyðisfjörður special: Eclectic, artistic vibe The iconic 🌈 rainbow road leading to the blue church Quiet and scenic atmosphere Easy access: It’s only about 25 minutes from Egilsstaðir, making it a simple but rewarding detour in the East. 3. Hveradalir (Highlands) If you’ve heard of Landmannalaugar, think similar, but quieter and less crowded. Hveradalir is a geothermal wonderland filled with steaming valleys and colorful rhyolite mountains. Why Hveradalir stands out: Incredible views right from the parking lot Fewer crowds than other Highland destinations Surreal, otherworldly landscapes What you need to know: Only accessible in summer A 4×4 vehicle is required Your car must be insured for F-roads No river crossings needed This is where renting the right type of vehicle becomes essential. Stop Guessing What’s Worth Visiting in Iceland Planning a trip here can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out what’s actually worth the detour. Inside my Iceland Map, I’ve pinned 350+ must-see spots, hidden gems, and practical stops so you can build a trip that flows without second-guessing every decision. Click Here for the Map 4. Vestmannaeyjar – The Westman Islands (South Iceland) The Westman Islands feel like a completely different world. A ferry ride from the south coast takes you to a volcanic island shaped by a powerful 1973 eruption. Why it’s worth visiting: One of the largest puffin colonies in the world Unique volcanic landscapes Incredible hiking Beluga whale & puffin sanctuary When to go: Summer for puffins Winter for dramatic scenery 5. Siglufjörður (North Iceland) Siglufjörður is one of those places that feels like a hidden gem. What makes Siglufjörður special: Charming harbor views Rich fishing history Peaceful, tucked-away atmosphere Getting there: The drive, especially through the mountain tunnels, is part of the adventure. It’s a one lane tunnel for both car directions. Sample Itinerary Including These 5 Detour Stops If you’re wondering how to actually connect these places into one trip, here’s a realistic way to do it. This route works best in summer, when the Highlands and Westfjords are accessible. Suggested Trip Length: 10–14 days Day 1–2: Reykjavík + South Coast Explore Reykjavík Drive the South Coast Optional overnight near Vík or Hvolsvöllur From here, you’ll head toward your first detour. Day 3: Ferry to Vestmannaeyjar Take the ferry from Landeyjahöfn Explore Heimaey island Hike Eldfell volcano Puffin spotting (in summer) Overnight on the island or return to the mainland. Day 4–5: Head East to Seyðisfjörður Drive along the South Coast toward East Iceland Stop at glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches along the way Base yourself near Egilsstaðir Take the scenic drive into Seyðisfjörður This is one of the most beautiful drives in the country. Don’t rush it. Day 6–7: North Iceland + Siglufjörður Continue north along the Ring Road Optional stops: Dettifoss, Mývatn area Head to Siglufjörður via the mountain tunnels Take your time here. This town is all about slowing down. Day 8–9: Into the Highlands – Hveradalir Head inland toward Kerlingarfjöll Drive F-roads (with a 4×4 vehicle) Explore Hveradalir geothermal area Plan for flexibility because Highland weather can change quickly. Day 10–12: The Westfjords + Látrabjarg Drive toward the Westfjords Take your time—this region is all about slow travel Visit Látrabjarg cliffs for puffins and insane coastal views This is the most remote part of the trip, and honestly, one of the most rewarding. Day 13–14: Return to Reykjavík Head back toward Reykjavík Optional stop at Snæfellsnes Peninsula along the way Important Notes for This Route This is a big trip. Don’t try to rush it Best done June–August A 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended Always check: Road conditions on SafeTravel.is Weather before heading into remote areas at vedur.is  Want This Route Planned Out for You? This is exactly the kind of trip that can feel overwhelming to piece together on your own. Inside my Iceland Map, I’ve already: Pinned all of these locations Included nearby stops you wouldn’t think to add Made it easy to build a route that actually makes sense So instead of guessing, you can just plug things in and go. Random Fact of the Episode Iceland is home to the largest puffin colony in the world, and many of them nest along cliffs like Látrabjarg. At their peak, you can see millions of puffins around the country. But they spend most of their lives out at sea, only coming to land to breed. Icelandic Word of the Episode Krókur (KROH-kur) Meaning: a hook, bend, or detour A perfect word for this post, because the best places in Iceland often require a little krókur. Share this with a Friend Email Facebook Pinterest Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook Þakka þer kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

The 2026 total solar eclipse is already drawing attention from travelers around the world, and for good reason. The last time a total solar eclipse was visible in Iceland was in 1954, and the next one won’t happen again until 2196.  This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PN4ZKGJ7QYI What Makes a Total Solar Eclipse So Special A total solar eclipse is when the Moon completely covers the Sun. Not partially, not mostly, completely! And when that happens, everything changes. The sky gets dark, like twilight in the middle of the day Temperatures drop And you can see the Sun’s corona, which looks like a glowing white halo But honestly? The technical explanation doesn’t fully capture it. People who have seen total solar eclipses travel across the world to experience them again. Free Iceland 2026 Total Solar Eclipse Guide In this free guide you’ll know where to go for the best chance of seeing totality, how to plan around Iceland’s unpredictable weather, and how to turn this into an unforgettable Iceland adventure. Click Here Why Iceland is So Unique for The 2026 Total Solar Eclipse? The 2026 eclipse path crosses a limited number of places, and Iceland is one of the most accessible and visually stunning locations in that path. Imagine this for a second: You’re standing near a black sand beach or next to a massive waterfall or in the middle of a volcanic landscape…then the sky goes dark. That’s what makes Iceland different. You’re not just watching the eclipse, you’re experiencing it in one of the most dramatic natural environments in the world. On top of that: Iceland has wide open landscapes with unobstructed views You’re never too far from a coastline And depending on where you go, you can avoid huge crowds But to be completely transparent, Iceland also comes with its challenges. Why Planning Early Matters (A LOT) for the 2026 Total Solar Eclipse in Iceland Planning early for this eclipse is not optional—it’s essential. Here’s why: 1. Limited Accommodations Iceland already has limited places to stay. Small towns, fewer hotels, and high demand even in a normal year make in challenging during summer. Now add a once-in-a-lifetime event? Things will book out fast! 2. Unpredictable Weather Icelandic weather changes quickly. Like, very quickly. You could have: Clear skies in one area And full cloud cover just an hour away Which means if you stay in one place and hope for the best, you might miss it. 3. Distances Are Deceptive Iceland looks small on the map, but driving between places often takes longer than people expect. So knowing: Where to base yourself Where to go on eclipse day And how to stay flexible …can completely change your experience. Free Help Planning Your Total Solar Eclipse Trip for Iceland? Honestly, this is exactly why I created a free guide for this. I’ve seen how quickly things can get overwhelming when planning a trip here, especially for something as big as a total solar eclipse. So I put together a free 42-page guide to help you feel confident going into this. By the time you finish it, you’ll know: Where to go for the best chance of seeing totality in Iceland How to plan around Iceland’s unpredictable weather What to book and when And how to turn this into an unforgettable Iceland adventure, not just a stressful chase for a view 👉🏾 Grab the free guide guide here – https://allthingsiceland.com/iceland-total-solar-eclipse-guide-2026/ Random Fact of the Episode The longest possible total solar eclipse on Earth can last up to about 7 minutes. In Iceland for 2026, totality will max be 2 minutes and 13 seconds,which makes timing everything. Icelandic Word of the Episode Sólmyrkvi — Solar Eclipse Share this with a Friend Facebook Email Threads Pinterest Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.

If there were ever a holiday that felt personally designed for me, it’s Bolludagur, Iceland’s cream bun day and, in my opinion, Iceland’s most delicious holiday. Bolludagur takes place every year on the Monday before Lent. And on this day, Iceland collectively agrees to eat an unreasonable amount of cream bun without guilt, without shame, and usually without stopping at just one. What Is a Bolla, Exactly? A bolla is an Icelandic cream bun. Traditionally, it’s made from a light choux-style pastry that’s sliced open, filled generously with whipped cream and sometimes jam, and then topped with chocolate glaze or icing. That’s the classic version, but modern Bolludagur has evolved far beyond that. These days, bakeries get wildly creative with flavors, fillings, and toppings, which is exactly why this day has become such a big deal. Why Bolludagur Is a Thing in Iceland? Bolludagur is part of Iceland’s version of Carnival, leading into Lent. Historically, it was about indulging before a period of restraint, but in true Icelandic fashion, it turned into a full-blown pastry event. How Much Do Cream Buns Cost in Iceland? Before we get into the bakeries, let’s talk price. As of 2026, most Icelandic cream buns fall somewhere between: 575 ISK ($4.70) – 925 ISK ($7.56) per bun Prices vary depending on the bakery, the size, and how elaborate the bun is. This is just an estimate based on current offerings — prices may be higher or lower in the future, so always check directly with the bakery. 5 Places Worth Visiting for Cream Buns in Reykjavík 1. Plantan Kaffihús and Bistro Plantan is a plant-based favorite in Reykjavík, and for Bolludagur they’re going all in with six different cream buns this year: Snickers Swedish Semla Biscoff Cheesecake Classic Matcha Raspberry If you’re vegan, plant-based, lactose intolerant, or just curious, Plantan is absolutely worth a stop. 2. Brauð & Co. One of Reykjavík’s most recognizable bakeries, Brauð & Co. is offering five varieties: Classic Vanilla Nougat Yuzu Lemon Vegan Caramel If you want something that feels both traditional and playful, this is a great place to check out 3. Passion Reykjavík Passion Reykjavík wins for sheer variety. They’re offering 15 different cream buns, which is honestly impressive. Some of their flavors include: After Eight Hressobolla (rumored “cream bun of the year” for 2026) Classic Croissant-style Irish Strawberry Caramel Coconut Nóa Kropp (Icelandic candy) Oreo Púnd (rum cream with sifted icing sugar) Snickers & Banana Twix Valentine’s Edition Vegan version If you want options — a lot of options — this is the place. 4. IKEA Yes. IKEA. IKEA in Iceland fully participates in Bolludagur and offers seven cream buns: Strawberry Banana cream & hazelnut butter Chocolate & licorice Classic with chocolate sauce Classic with caramel Vegan with chocolate Vegan with caramel These are also typically the most affordable cream buns you’ll find. 5. Deig Deig keeps things refined but flavorful with five varieties: Rosehip jam Raspberry jam Vanilla almond Nutella Pistachio If you like pastries that feel a little more elegant, Deig is a solid choice. Random Fact of the Episode Every year for Bolludagur, over one million cream buns are made and sold across Iceland — making it one of the most pastry-intensive days of the entire year. Icelandic Word of the Episode Bolluvöndur – A decorated stick children use on Bolludagur to playfully “demand” cream buns by tapping their parents and chanting “Bolla! Bolla! Bolla!” Share this with a Friend Pinterest Facebook Email Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook

Bríet Ísis Elfar is not just one of Iceland’s biggest music stars. She’s an artist who embodies fearlessness, authenticity, and constant reinvention. Her breakout English-language single In Too Deep in 2018 introduced her sultry, soulful voice to the world, but it was her 2020 album Kveðja, Bríet that catapulted her to national stardom. She won “Album of the Year” and cemented herself as one of the country’s most influential female musicians. Big Conversations in the Coziest Setting with Center Hotels This interview is part of my In Bed With series, created in partnership with Center Hotels. Each conversation is recorded right in a bed at one of Center Hotels’ nine locations in downtown Reykjavík—keeping things cozy, relaxed, and a little unconventional. If you’re planning a stay in the city, you can use my code ATI25 to save 25% off at any Center Hotels location in Reykjavík. Bríet’s Artistic & Spiritual Upbringing Born in Reykjavík in 1999, Bríet grew up in a uniquely creative and spiritual household. Her father, Benedikt Elfar, taught her guitar and nurtured her love of jazz, while her mother, Ásrún Laila Awad, led sweat-lodge ceremonies infused with mantra chanting and deep emotional connection. Raised in this world of music, ritual, and radical openness, Bríet developed both resilience and a powerful sense of self. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFeYJr4JdIk From Jazz Bars to Center Stage From singing jazz in Reykjavík restaurants for a hamburger and 5,000 krónur, to debuting her original work on the stage of Sónar Reykjavík, Bríet’s journey has been anything but ordinary. She’s unapologetically experimental, whether making plastic “glass” dresses with her longtime fashion collaborator, diving into collaborative projects like 1000 orð with rapper Birnir, or writing songs that transform heartbreak into catharsis. Bríet’s Radical Honesty as a Creative Force Known for her raw honesty, she has openly shared struggles with belonging, heartbreak, and personal growth. Yet through it all, her guiding philosophy remains simple: don’t take life too seriously, embrace failure, and always follow the intuition of the heart. At a Turning Point, Always Becoming Today, Bríet stands at a new turning point—after years of acclaim, collaborations with major Icelandic artists like Ásgeir Trausti and Friðrik Dór, and millions of streams worldwide, she continues to chase the unknown. Whether sitting next to global icons in Tokyo or returning to her roots in a sweat lodge in Iceland, Bríet carries a rare ability to turn both joy and pain into beauty. Share this with a Friend Facebook Threads Email Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook Thanks for listening. Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótega.

There’s a lot of advice about traveling to Iceland, and not all of it is helpful. In this podcast episode, I’m breaking down five common Iceland travel myths that end up quietly costing travelers time, money, and energy. From unrealistic expectations about weather to misunderstandings around driving and seasons, this episode will help you spot the assumptions that derail trips before they even begin. The 5 Iceland Travel Myths That Mislead Visitors Myth 1: “Iceland is always freezing cold” Iceland has a reputation for being brutally cold, but that’s not actually true year-round — or even most of the time. Thanks to the Gulf Stream, temperatures are often milder than people expect, especially along the coast. The bigger challenge for travelers is usually wind and changing weather, not extreme cold. When people assume “freezing,” they often overpack or misunderstand what conditions they’re really preparing for. Myth 2: “You need extreme winter clothing” Many travelers assume they need expedition-level gear just to survive Iceland, which leads to overpacking and overspending. In reality, what matters most is layering properly, not wearing the heaviest gear possible. Waterproof and windproof layers are far more important than bulky items. Dressing smartly, not excessively, makes travel easier, more comfortable, and more flexible. Myth 3: “Winter driving is too dangerous for tourists” Winter driving in Iceland isn’t automatically dangerous, but it does require preparation and realistic expectations. Many visitors drive safely every winter by choosing appropriate vehicles, monitoring weather forecasts, and adjusting their plans when needed. Conditions vary significantly by region and day, which is why flexibility and local awareness matter more than fear. The real risk comes from underestimating the conditions, not from driving itself. Myth 4: “It’s completely dark in Iceland during winter” While daylight hours are shorter in winter, Iceland is not in total darkness. Even around the winter solstice, there are several hours of daylight, including long twilight periods. Many travelers are surprised by how usable the day still feels — especially when plans are adjusted to match daylight windows. Understanding how daylight actually works makes winter travel far less intimidating. Myth 5: “You can only see the Northern Lights in winter” Winter is the most popular season for Northern Lights viewing, but it’s not the only time they appear. The aurora can be visible in late fall and early spring as well — whenever skies are dark enough and solar activity cooperates. The key factors are darkness, clear skies, and patience, not just the season itself. This myth often causes people to unnecessarily limit their travel options. The Real Issue: Assumptions, Not Bad Decisions Most Iceland travel mistakes aren’t about bad decisions, they’re about bad assumptions. When travelers rely on oversimplified advice or viral content, they often plan trips that don’t match reality. Once those assumptions are corrected, Iceland becomes far easier and more enjoyable to explore. Plan Iceland With Clarity, Not Guesswork If you’re planning a trip to Iceland and feeling overwhelmed by conflicting information, I want to invite you to my Live Iceland Trip Planning Workshop happening on January 31st, 2026. It’s the first workshop of the year and is especially helpful if you’re planning a trip for 2026 or beyond and want a strong head start. This is a live, interactive workshop where I walk you through how to plan your trip realistically — from driving distances and timing, to choosing the right season, and building an itinerary that actually works. You’ll also be able to ask me your questions in real time, which is honestly one of the most valuable parts. I also do a giveaway at the end of the workshop, including Iceland-related prizes. One of those prizes is a one-on-one video trip consultation with me, which is usually fully booked since I only open a few slots each year. If you want clarity, confidence, and a solid plan instead of stress, you can find all the details and sign up using the link in the show notes or here 👉🏾 https://all-things-iceland.teachable.com/p/iceland-trip-planning-workshop Random Fact of the Episode Winter can be very dry in Iceland. I know that sounds strange since we often some sort of precipitation, like rain or snow, but the air is dry and that can wreak havoc on your skin. If you are prone to having dryness, make sure you double up on your moisturizer when you are here. Icelandic Word of the Episode Goðsögn – myth Share this with a friend Facebook Threads Email Let’s Be Social Youtube Tiktok Instagram Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.