Be Aware of a Few Important Things Before Travelling To Iceland
One of the joys of travelling is the unexpected. That which one takes as routine or of no importance can assume huge proportions and present a challenge. It is no different when one contemplates a tour of Iceland, the land of gushing geysers, volcanoes that look as they might spew fire and ash at any time, shimmering blue ice caves, glaciers that present a challenge and lots more. Summer or winter, Iceland is a magical country possibly with elves, trolls and fairies lurking around somewhere. However, one should know a few things before rushing off.
Iceland travel becomes a far lot easier and more enjoyable if one joins a local tour and travels in style in a 4×4 with giant wheels. Such tours with a guide in attendance take visitors even to places that are off the beaten tourist track. This is one of the several Iceland travel tips you will know here.
Do not make it a rush-rush affair. Spare time. The Northern lights are there but to get an astounding view one may have to pick the perfect night and it does not happen every night so a tour operator who agrees to give a second chance at no extra cost is just right.
English has widely spoken so no need to carry any translation guides.
Food (and most other things) is expensive, especially in good restaurants and in winter. There is no shame in carrying ready to eat foods. Drinks in bars can be costly so it is better to buy from duty-free and keep a supply with you. Not just food and drinks, even hotels and rides can be expensive. It is better to keep shopping and eating out to a minimum. The water here is worth a mention. It is clean and pure but it can smell of sulphur!
One thing about Iceland photographers and others love is the sunlight. In summer, the sky could be lighted till around 3 AM so you can indulge in revelry or walk about the streets. In winter it is the opposite. The sun stays low in the sky from 11 AM to 4 PM but sunrises and sunsets are extended and photographers can capture dazzling images not possible elsewhere. Winter can be a challenge but hotel costs are lower and there are fewer tourists and the landscape is just so different.
Credit cards are accepted everywhere so there is no need to worry about money but it is better to have dollars in hand to avoid extra charges on card transactions.
Take plenty of warm clothing for the nights but also pack in swimming suits. Iceland offers the unique experience of bathing in hot water geothermal springs while it is cold outside. Wear tough boots with enough traction so one can walk on rock, gravel and ice.
For photographers, one of the Iceland travel tips to keep in mind is to carry a good high-end camera with a couple of lenses for low light and also protective covers to prevent fog and mists from damaging the equipment. It is advisable to have more than one battery.
Iceland travel can be much more enjoyable when done in the company and in a custom packaged local tour.