Iceland🇮🇸
Iceland, situated in the North Atlantic, is a Nordic island country. It is regarded to be the world's most sparsely populated country. Iceland is neighboring Greenland to the west, and Norway and United Kingdom to the east, across the ocean. Iceland is often known for its stunning natural landscapes, comprising of waterfalls, geysers, glaciers, and volcanic hot spots. Unique in its geography, it offers fascinating northern lights or aurora borealis, and midnight sun during different times of the year. Traditional practices include the horse round-up in Autumn, sheep shearing, and puffin hunting. Reykjavik, its capital, is home to the National and Saga museums, housing Viking history. Blue Lagoon spa, in a lava field, and Vatnajökull, the largest glacier in Europe, are the popular attractions. A visit to Iceland is specially recommended for its scenic drives, geothermal baths, and whale watching.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid bathing in hot springs which don't have temperature controls; the water can be scalding hot and injurious.
- Don't ignore signals and ropes around geysers, hot springs and other natural wonders; they're marked for your safety.
- Avoid disrespecting local customs or folklore. The belief system can involve folklore figures like the 'hidden folk'.
- Avoid being unprepared for sudden weather changes, especially during winter, it can lead to dangerous situations.
- Avoid drinking and driving. It's illegal with zero tolerance and heavily penalized.
- Avoid off-road driving as it can damage fragile vegetation and can lead to heavy fines.
- Don't take ‘elf rocks’ from nature as souvenirs; it's a serious offense and considering bad luck in local belief.
- Don’t openly ignore or violate environmental protection guidelines, respecting nature is a part of Icelandic cultural ethos.
- Avoid traveling in winter without checking road and weather conditions which can get hazardous.
- Avoid dangerous animal interactions. Though there are few dangerous wild animals, seals and birds should not be approached too closely.
Overall
9
Crime 🔫
9
Iceland is one of the safest places in the world with a low crime rate. Major cities like Reykjavik have lower crime incidences compared to other global cities. Pickpocketing or small-scale theft might be encountered in crowded places or tourist spots, and it is advised to be vigilant of personal belongings. There isn't a list of specifically unsafe cities in Iceland.
Terrorism 💣
10
Terrorism is almost non-existent in Iceland. There hasn't been any significant terror incident reported in the recent or distant past, making Iceland extremely safe from threats of terrorism.
War ⚔️
10
Iceland has no military and has not been engaged in any warfare, making it a peaceful country. Its defense is handled by NATO.
Natural Disasters 🌊
4
Iceland is prone to natural disasters, especially seismic activities due to its location on two tectonic plates. In 2020, two significant earthquakes above magnitude 5 were recorded near the capital city, Reykjavik. Iceland is also known for volcanic eruptions; the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull volcano led to significant disruption in European air travel.
Medical Care 🏥
9
Iceland has a very high standard of healthcare. The country has a universal healthcare system that is efficient and effective. However, service might be limited in remote areas, but emergency medical response is highly capable and timely.
Tap Water Quality 💧
10
Iceland has excellent tap water quality. The country's water comes directly from nature - from springs, rivers, and glaciers and is safe and good to drink. Bottled water is almost a novelty item.
Disease Burden 🤒
9
Iceland has very low disease prevalence. Major diseases like Malaria, Dengue are virtually non-existent. Basic preventive measures must be taken for flu, especially during winter months.
Corruption 💸
8
Iceland ranks relatively high on the Corruption Perceptions Index indicating lower levels of corruption. However, there have been incidents of political corruption, the most notable being the 2016 Prime Minister's resignation following the Panama Papers scandal.
Safety for Women ♀️
10
Iceland is consistently rated at the top of the Global Gender Gap Index, making it one of the safest countries in the world for women. Violence against women is low and gender equality is highly prioritized by the government.
Safety for Queer People 👬
10
Iceland is considered one of the most queer-friendly countries in the world. Rights are extensive and well-enshrined in law, including the right to marry and adopt.
Censorship 📺
10
Iceland is one of the champions of press freedom. There have been no significant incidents of censorship. The country thrives in its freedom of expression and information.
Public Transportation 🚌
7
Public transport exists but is not comprehensive, especially outside the capital. It is safe but can be less predictable in winter months due to weather conditions. There have been no significant incidents pertaining to public transportation safety.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Iceland is extremely safe in terms of crime, terrorism, and safety for women and queer people. The healthcare and tap water quality are first-rate. A common threat comes from natural disasters, particularly earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, due to its geological location. It's important to respect nature and adhere to marked paths, while avoiding bathing in unmarked hot springs.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Many countries have embassies or consulates in Iceland, mostly located in the capital city, Reykjavik. This includes the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and many European countries.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Routine vaccines such as Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR), Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Poliovirus, Hepatitis B, and annual flu shot are recommended before traveling to Iceland.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Iceland has virtually no dangerous animals. It lacks mosquitoes, snakes, and other harmful insects. You might encounter Arctic Foxes and sea birds but they are generally not aggressive unless threatened.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, hence Schengen Area Visa rules apply. Visa-free travel is allowed for many countries, but it is recommended to check the current visa requirements before planning the travel.
💲 Currency
The official currency is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Currency can be exchanged at banks, ATMs and at the Keflavik Airport.
💳Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted and often preferred in Iceland. Even small vendors accept cards with very few cash-only exceptions.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Iceland allows work and travel, particularly in industries like tourism, agriculture, and fisheries. However, check for appropriate visa requirements.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Iceland is considered a high-cost country for travel and living. Accommodation, dining out, and groceries can be more expensive compared to many European countries.