Iceland Travel Guide: Everything You NEED TO KNOW Visiting Iceland

Summary

In this episode of Hopper TV, the host discusses the affordability and attractions of visiting Iceland, highlighting the high cost of taxis and the benefits of renting a car. He covers the unique phenomena of the midnight sun and northern lights, the volcanic activity, and the island's natural beauty. The video also touches on transportation options, local currency, the friendly nature of the people, and various activities available, including the Golden Circle and South Coast tours. The host recommends packing appropriate clothing for the unpredictable weather and trying local cuisine, while also noting the vibrant nightlife and the importance of respecting local culture.

Takeaways

• 🚖 Taxis in Iceland are expensive; it's more affordable to rent a car for transportation within the city.
• 🏨 Accommodation options like hotels and hostels are reasonably priced, but the average hotel cost is around $200 per night.
• 🌍 Iceland is known for its natural wonders like the midnight sun in summer and the northern lights in winter, and its geothermal activity.
• ⏱ In the winter, Iceland gets as little as five hours of sunlight in December, with the sun rising late and setting early.
• 🌞 In summer, there is almost continuous daylight, even affecting sleep due to the light peeking through blackout curtains.
• 🚗 For transportation, rental cars are recommended due to the high cost of taxis, and buses are a more affordable alternative.
• 💰 Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Iceland, with Mastercard and Visa being particularly common, though American Express is less so.
• 🌐 The local currency is the krona, not the euro, and 2000 krona is approximately equivalent to $20 USD.
• 🏞 Iceland has a diverse population with a mix of Scandinavian ancestry and immigrants, particularly from Poland.
• 🧳 When packing for a trip to Iceland, bring weatherproof hiking boots, a light raincoat, and warm layers as the weather can be unpredictable.
• 🎉 Iceland is known for its vibrant nightlife, with lively music and social scenes that continue into the early morning hours.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video script?

The main topic of the video script is to provide information about things to know when visiting Iceland, including affordability, transportation, weather, and activities.

Why is it suggested to rent a car instead of taking a taxi in Iceland?

It is suggested to rent a car instead of taking a taxi in Iceland because taxis can be very expensive, with the cost of a taxi ride within the city limits of Reykjavik potentially matching the daily cost of a rental car.

What is the average price for a hotel stay in Iceland according to the script?

The average price for a hotel stay in Iceland is around 200 dollars on the low side.

What is Iceland known for, apart from the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun?

Iceland is also known as the land of fire and ice due to its volcanic activity, and it has a rich natural landscape including glaciers, fjords, and waterfalls.

How many hours of sunlight can one expect in December in Iceland?

In December, one can expect a maximum of five hours of sunlight in Iceland.

What is the most affordable way to get from the airport to Reykjavik according to the script?

The most affordable way to get from the airport to Reykjavik is by taking a bus, such as the Fly Bus, which can cost around 40 to 50 dollars.

What is the currency used in Iceland?

The currency used in Iceland is called the krona, not the euro.

What percentage of Iceland's residents are immigrants?

About twenty to thirty percent of Iceland's residents are immigrants from other places.

What is the weather like in Iceland during the summer?

During the summer, Iceland experiences long daylight hours with almost continuous light, even at night, and the weather can be unpredictable with rain and cold temperatures.

What are some popular activities for tourists in Iceland?

Popular activities for tourists in Iceland include seeing the Northern Lights in winter, visiting volcanoes, exploring fjords, whale watching, and visiting hot springs like the Blue Lagoon.

What is the recommended attire for someone visiting Iceland?

Recommended attire includes hiking boots, a light raincoat, possibly long johns for warmth, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen due to the bright sun.

What is the name of the tour company mentioned in the script?

The tour company mentioned in the script is called Troll.is.

What is special about the nightlife in Iceland?

Iceland is known for its lively nightlife with loud music, pubs, and clubs that stay open late, and a party atmosphere that continues even with the Midnight Sun.