Iceland is popular when it comes to travel destinations, this much is certain. However, just like any other travel destination, there will always be unpredictable circumstances. That's why it is essential to know about the place before exploring it. No one wants a vacation that would bring the tourist a worry instead of just having fun and relaxing. Listed below are the things tourists must avoid when visiting Iceland.
10 Always Check The Weather
If tourists plan to visit Black Beach, it is indispensable to check the weather forecast first. It is hazardous to go near the sea if the weather is bad because the waves can be very destructive. During winter, it is not advisable to go hiking, especially if there are no tour guides. This is also one of the reasons why dressing according to the weather is essential when visiting Iceland. The tourist must not ignore the weather.
9 Swimming
Tourists should know that not every beach in Iceland is safe to swim in, many beaches here have already put people's lives in danger, and some even didn't survive. Always remember to keep a distance from the water and never turn a back on the sea. The same goes for geothermal pools. Not all of the "lagoons" here are safe because some are active. Be careful not to fall into these pools and always read signages.
8 It Is Safer To Rely On Tour Guides
Local tour guides have been living there and have mastered every bit of Iceland, which is why it is safer with them. Do not walk on the glaciers without a professional tour guide because ice can break easily. Moreover, tour guides are primarily multi-lingual. Make sure to be with a tour guide that knows their client's language to avoid misunderstandings. Also, this way, tourists will be able to understand what the written signages are all about.
7 Day Or Night Can Be Long
Having extended daylight or a long night in Iceland is natural. It is situated in the Arctic Circle, which is why such a phenomenon happens. Broad daylight tends to occur in June and July, while the sun never goes up in December and January. On the other hand, sunset and sunrise during winter last for about 2 hours. If tourists happen to visit Iceland during extended daylight, it is recommendable to bring eye masks to sleep.
6 Bring A Flask
Iceland is rich in fresh and tap water, and there is no need to buy bottled water from the supermarket. It is better to bring a personalized and reusable flask to avoid the chlorinated water from the supermarket. It is also a better way to prevent the use of plastic containers and save money. Nothing beats the fresh and natural water from Iceland. Tourists can go directly to the streams and safely get water there.
5 Be Mindful When Shopping
Avoid shopping at 10-11 because the products are highly expensive than other stores. Stores that offer the lower and right price for goods are Netto, Bonus, and Kronan. Tourists can locate these stores in the capital of Iceland. Purchasing alcohol is also not easy. There's a strict implementation of drinks in Iceland. Moreover, stores that sell alcohol are not always open and have limited hours of operation. Also, if tourists were caught driving under the influence of alcohol, the fine would be $750.
4 Driving Etiquette
Iceland is stringent when it comes to driving. As mentioned above, the fine for DUI is $750, and there's more to that. Going off the road is a big No in Iceland. If drivers break this law, the fine would be $2,000, and the driver must repair the damage that was caused. In addition to that, Iceland's speed limit is at 30 to 90 km/hour, and the fines vary depending on where the driver has been caught breaking the speed limit.
3 Don’ts When Hiking
Iceland's nature is indeed beautiful, and it can be deceiving as well. Each year, some tourists would decide to go on a hike alone. In return, some would get in an accident or, worse, get lost. Lucky for those rescued, but it is unfortunate to know that hikers would die just because they decided to go alone. Suppose tourists would like to hike in secluded areas, better to ask for a tour guide and let the hotel know.
2 Etiquette On Baths And Pools
If tourists want to bathe in a blue lagoon or other natural outdoor pools, they must shower before going to the water. There are shower rooms for guests before going to the collection. Never think of not following this rule because the attendants will still go straight to their guests and bring them to the shower area. Laugardalslaug, Reykjavik's, has the largest lagoon facility and excellent amenities. It is also not allowed to eat in the pool.
1 Additional Tips
Tourists should not worry about parking lots when going to lagoons because it is free. Tipping in Iceland is discouraged as the servers are being compensated well. However, if tourists would still like to tip the staff or the server, there's no wrong with that. When it comes to clothing, tourists must never forget their coats because, as mentioned, the weather in Iceland is highly unpredictable, so it is better to be ready. Lastly, never ignore warning signs and always read and follow the directions and advice.