Travel Tips

15 Free Things to Do in Reykjavík, Iceland

Reykjavík has a reputation for being an expensive city. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Iceland or you’re a return visitor, this episode will highlight 15 fantastic activities you can enjoy at no cost while soaking up the unique atmosphere of the city. I’ve crafted this list with both locals and travelers in mind,…

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10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Iceland for the First Time

Today, I’ve diving into one of the most essential topics for anyone planning a trip to the Land of Fire and Ice—‘10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Iceland.’ From navigating Iceland’s famously unpredictable weather to understanding why tap water here is better than bottled, I’ll cover everything to help you avoid common pitfalls…

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How to Avoid Offending Icelanders: A Traveler’s Guide to Local Etiquette

Icelanders have gained a reputation for being laid-back, and welcoming, making their country one of the most delightful places to visit. However, like any culture, Iceland has its own unique customs and traditions that visitors might unknowingly overlook. While Icelanders are forgiving, certain faux pas can unintentionally offend them. If you’re planning a trip to…

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Iceland’s Tipping Culture: What Visitors Should Know

Today, I’m tackling a topic that often confuses visitors—tipping culture in Iceland. If you’re used to tipping as a standard practice in your home country, Iceland’s approach might surprise you! This is a question I have gotten quite often in the “Ask Jewells Anything” segment of the podcast, so I am doing a separate episode…

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7 Fascinating Facts I Learned Inside Iceland’s Langjökull Glacier

Experiencing *Into the Glacier* in Iceland was like stepping into a different world—a frozen wonderland hidden deep within Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. It was truly mesmerizing to see the glacier from the inside, which made me feel like I was in the heart of an enormous frozen giant. Is it Safe to Visit “Into the…

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Your Complete Guide to Celebrate Pride in Reykjavík, Iceland

Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally, visiting Iceland during Pride is an unforgettable experience. This guide will delve into why you should consider timing your visit to coincide with Reykjavík Pride, what events to look forward to, and what else you can enjoy in Iceland during August. Why Visit Iceland During…

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Iceland Will Require a Visa Waiver Fee Starting in 2025

At the beginning of 2025, a new travel authorization system called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will come into effect. This new requirement aims to bolster security across Europe, addressing concerns related to terrorism and the influx of migrants and refugees. Non-EU visitors who previously didn’t need a visa will now have to…

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Is Iceland Splitting in Half? – How Moving Tectonic Plates Impacts the Country

Iceland straddles the Mid-Atlantic Ridge where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. This unique geographical setting has led to some fascinating geological features and dynamic landscapes. In this episode, I go over the geology a little bit, the main reason why Iceland does not split in two even though the tectonic plates are…

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What It‘s Like to Snorkel Between Continents in Iceland‘s Silfra Fissure

Have you ever imagined swimming between two continents, touching the jagged edges of the earth’s crust beneath crystal-clear water? I had the unforgettable experience of snorkeling in Silfra Fissure, located in the heart of Thingvellir National Park, Iceland. This unique adventure is available all year round, and whether you visit during the chilly embrace of…

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Icelandic Coffee Culture & Unique Cafés to Visit in Reykjavík

Iceland’s coffee culture is – deeply ingrained in the social fabric of Icelandic society. Along with being a drink that perks people up, grabbing a cup of coffee in Iceland is often a social interaction, where the drink is enjoyed in the company of others, many times in cozy settings. This communal aspect is so…

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