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All Things Iceland: Daily Summaries Delivered
by Jewells Chambers
Discover Iceland’s language, history, culture, & nature
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- Aug 14, 202630 min
10 Weird Things I Now Find Normal After Living in Iceland for 10 Years
2026 marks 10 years since I moved to Iceland, which is honestly a little hard for me to believe. I can still remember stepping off the plane, starting work, and feeling like my brain was being bombarded with things that seemed foreign or strange. Even hearing Icelandic names like Ása, Björn, and Arnbjörn took some getting used to. https://youtu.be/AKL2qYEzEkU Fast-forward a decade and so many of those things don’t even register as unusual anymore. They’re just…life. Living in another country for this long has also made me realize how much our definition of “normal” is shaped by where we grow up. Things that initially made me think, People actually do this?! are now things I barely notice, and in some cases, things I do myself. Here are 10 things that have become normal to me after living in Iceland for 10 years. 1. Letting Babies Nap Outside This might be the biggest transformation of them all because I went from thinking this was absolutely bizarre to doing it with my own baby. I learned about babies napping outside when I first visited Iceland in the winter of 2013. At the time, I couldn’t understand how people could possibly be comfortable leaving a baby outside to sleep. Then I had a baby. Halli’s mom showed us how to bundle her up properly so she could be warm while getting fresh air outside, and it completely changed the game for us. At one point, she could sleep for around three hours outside when an indoor nap might only last about 20 minutes. It’s also something you regularly see in Iceland. You can walk through residential neighborhoods or even pass cafés in downtown Reykjavík and see a stroller outside with a sleeping baby while a parent or caregiver is nearby and checking on them. Years ago, that sight would have immediately caught my attention. Now? Completely normal. 2. Thinking 60°F (15°C) Is Warm New York Jewells would like a word with current Jewells. I moved to Iceland in June 2016, and I remember seeing Icelanders walking around in shorts, T-shirts, and sandals when it was about 60°F/15°C. Meanwhile, I had on long pants, sneakers, a sweater AND a jacket. I genuinely thought, What is wrong with these people? This isn’t warm! Then something happened. I acclimated! After experiencing Icelandic winters and then feeling the temperature climb again, 60°F started feeling legitimately warm. If it’s around 60°F, sunny and, this is important, there’s no wind? That’s practically tropical now. <img decoding="async" width="1024" height="595" src="https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/4-1-1024x595.jpg" alt="" srcset="https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/4-1-1024x595.jpg 1024w, https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/4-1-300x174.jpg 300w, https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/4-1-768x446.jpg 768w, https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/4-1-1536x892.jpg 1536w, https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/4-1-2048x1189.jpg 2048w, https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/4-1-750x435.jpg 750w,
- Aug 5, 202612 min
Iceland’s New Road Tax Explained (2026): What Every Tourist Needs to Know
Planning to rent a car in Iceland? Learn how Iceland’s new road tax works, why it was introduced, how it affects tourists, and how you can save money on your rental. I’ll also explain why not all rental car companies charge the fee the same way and share my recommendations after living in Iceland for the past 10 years. One of the biggest reasons I recommend renting a car in Iceland is the freedom it gives you. Some of my favorite memories have come from pulling over at an unexpected waterfall, taking a detour because someone mentioned a hidden canyon, or completely changing my plans after seeing that the weather was better in another part of the country. Those spontaneous moments are often the highlights of an Iceland trip. That’s why, when Iceland introduced a new road fee at the beginning of 2026, I immediately started getting questions from members of the All Things Iceland community. People wanted to know: What exactly is Iceland’s new road tax? Why did Iceland introduce the road tax fee? Does it apply to tourists? How much will it cost? Should I still rent a car? How to budget for Iceland’s new road tax fee How can you save on a rental car in Iceland? If you’ve been wondering the same thing, you’re definitely not alone. In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about Iceland’s new road fee, including why it was introduced, how it works, how it affects tourists renting cars and camper vans, how different rental companies handle the fee, and some practical ways to save money while planning your Iceland road trip. https://youtu.be/oqXebmLiA38 What Is Iceland’s New Road Tax? Although you’ll often hear people, including me, refer to it as Iceland’s new road tax, the official name is the kilometer fee, or kílómetragjald in Icelandic. The fee officially came into effect on January 1, 2026, and it’s designed to help fund Iceland’s road infrastructure in a different way than before. Under the standard government system, most passenger vehicles are charged 6.95 ISK per kilometer driven, although rates vary depending on the vehicle’s weight and classification. Unlike a toll road where you stop to pay at a booth, this fee is based on the total number of kilometers a vehicle travels. For Icelandic residents who own a vehicle, the fee is reported and paid according to government regulations. For visitors, however, the process is much simpler because your rental company handles it for you. That means you don’t have to register with the Icelandic government or report your mileage yourself. Instead, the rental company collects the fee as part of your rental agreement before paying it to the government. This is where many travelers become confused because not every rental company chooses to pass that fee on in the same way. I’ll cover that in detail a little later because understanding this difference can make budgeting your trip much easier. Experience Tip: One thing I’ve noticed after helping thousands of travelers plan trips to Iceland is that most people assume every rental company calculates this fee exactly the same way. That
- Jul 23, 202623 min
I Just Finished 8 Months of Maternity Leave in Iceland. Here’s What It Was Really Like.
After eight months of maternity leave in Iceland, I’m finally back to work. Looking back, I can honestly say that this experience has given me an entirely new appreciation for Iceland’s parental leave system. Before becoming a mom, I had so many questions. Would I qualify since I own my own business? How would my payments be calculated? How much time would I actually get with Eva? And what would maternity leave even feel like? In this episode/blog, I’m sharing both how parental leave works in Iceland and my personal experience navigating it as a first-time mom. https://youtu.be/BzbZjLI2-xo How Parental Leave Works in Iceland One of the things I love most about Iceland’s parental leave system is that it’s designed for both parents. Each parent is entitled to six months of parental leave, giving families a total of twelve months together. Parents also have the option to transfer up to six weeks of their leave to one another, while still encouraging both parents to spend meaningful time bonding with their child. Another aspect I really appreciate is the flexibility. Parents can spread their leave out and use it until the child turns two years old. In our family, I decided to take my leave all at once, while Halli took the first three months immediately after Eva was born. He still has additional leave remaining that he plans to use before she turns two. For me, this flexibility is one of the strongest parts of Iceland’s system because every family’s needs are different. My Experience Taking Leave as a Self-Employed Business Owner One of my biggest concerns before having Eva was whether I would qualify for parental leave since I own my own company. Even though I’m the only employee at All Things Iceland, I still pay all of the required employer contributions, including payments into Iceland’s parental leave fund, known as the Fæðingarorlofssjóður. One important difference for self-employed people is how parental leave payments are calculated. Instead of looking at recent monthly wages like traditional employees, self-employed parents have their payments calculated using their average income from the previous tax year. It was fascinating learning how that process worked, and thankfully everything went smoothly for me. Even so, it made me realize how important it is for self-employed people to understand these rules before planning parental leave. Why I Chose Eight Months Instead of Six Although I technically had six months of paid leave, I decided to spread those payments across eight months. That meant receiving smaller monthly payments while allowing me to stay home with Eva for longer. For me, six months simply didn’t feel like enough. Maybe it was because I wanted to experience more of Iceland’s brighter spring and summer months with her, or maybe I simply wasn’t ready to jump back into work. Whatever the reason, I’m incredibly grateful that Iceland gave me the flexibility to make that decision. Understanding the Parental Leave Payments in Iceland Parental leave in Iceland isn’t intended to fully replace a person’s salary. Instead, the goal is to provide financial support so parents can spend meaningful time with
- Jul 15, 2026
21 Solo Camper Van Tips for Iceland that I Swear By – Insider Local Advice
Over the last decade of living in Iceland, I’ve taken numerous solo trips around the country, including several solo camper van adventures. My very first solo camper van trip was a two-week Ring Road journey in May 2022, and it taught me more than I ever expected. I was excited, nervous, anxious, and completely ready to see what Iceland would feel like on my own. Since then, I’ve helped countless travelers plan their Iceland adventures through private consultations, and I’ve noticed the same questions and concerns come up repeatedly for people considering solo camper van travel. Whether you’re planning your first solo trip or simply looking for practical advice, these are 21 of my biggest lessons, mistakes, tips, and honest thoughts after years of exploring Iceland on my own. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVLaVg5G618 The 21 Tips I Share About Taking a Solo Camper Van Trip in Iceland Why a Heater Is Essential in an Iceland Camper Van How to Keep Yourself and Your Belongings Safe The Security Mistake Most Travelers Don’t Think About Why Good Insurance Can Save You Thousands Don’t Forget a Portable Charger Learn a Few Icelandic Phrases Before You Go Master the Art of Layering for Iceland’s Weather Packing Cubes Are a Camper Van Game-Changer Choosing the Right Camper Van Size What Comes Included in Most Iceland Camper Vans Surviving Middle-of-the-Night Bathroom Runs Why Water Shoes Deserve a Spot in Your Bag Bring Your Favorite Snacks From Home Not All Iceland Campsites Are Created Equal Visit Local Swimming Pools for Relaxation and Connection Cooking in a Camper Van Is Better Than You Think How to Avoid Expensive Speeding Tickets Check Weather and Road Conditions Every Day Exploring Iceland’s Highlands as a Solo Traveler Where You Can (and Can’t) Camp in Iceland Why Solo Travel in Iceland Is Truly Transformative Resources for Planning Your Iceland Camper Van Trip The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Iceland Iceland Discount Code Bundle – save loads while exploring Iceland The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Car in Iceland Private Iceland Trip Consultations 1. Rent a Camper Van with a Heater <img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" width="1024" height="595" src="https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/3-1024x595.jpg" alt="" srcset="https://allthings
- Jul 9, 202653 min
Iceland’s Glaciers & Coastline are Disappearing – Here’s how Your Visit Can Help Scientists
What if your next trip to Iceland could do more than create unforgettable memories? In this episode, I sit down with Anne Peters and geologist Johannes Marteinn from Katla UNESCO Global Geopark to explore one of the most fascinating experiences I’ve ever had in Iceland: science-backed expeditions where everyday travelers help collect real scientific data. The best part? You don’t need any scientific experience. If you can hike, take photos, or learn to use simple equipment, you can contribute to research that’s helping scientists better understand Iceland’s rapidly changing landscapes. In this episode What “citizen science” really means How anyone can participate in real scientific research in Iceland My experience collecting glacier, dead ice, and coastline data Why Katla Geopark is one of Iceland’s most geologically diverse regions How scientists monitor glaciers, dead ice, and coastal erosion What happens to the data after each expedition Why these small-group adventures are designed with sustainability in mind https://youtu.be/VxqVdGRYnak Some surprising facts you’ll learn about Iceland Katla UNESCO Global Geopark covers nearly 10% of Iceland. Parts of Iceland’s South Coast are eroding by an average of about five meters every year. During one storm in 2022, scientists measured up to 100 meters (328 feet) of coastline disappearing in a single event. Participants receive reports, updates showing how their measurements contribute to ongoing research, and a certification of completion. Save 10% on your own Citizen Scientist Expedition in Iceland If you’d like to experience one of these science-backed expeditions yourself, you can save 10% by using my code JEWELLS when booking through Katla UNESCO Global Geopark. Here is the expeditions – https://www.katlageopark.com/about-katla/research/science-driven-expeditions/ I genuinely loved taking part in these expeditions because I wasn’t just admiring Iceland’s incredible landscapes, I was helping researchers collect information that contributes to understanding how Iceland is changing. It completely transformed the way I think about travel, and I hope this conversation inspires you to experience Iceland in a whole new way as a citizen scientist. Share this with a Friend Facebook Email Threads Pinterest Let’s Be Social Youtube Instagram Tiktok Facebook Þakka þér kærlega fyrir að hlusta og sjáumst fljótlega.
- May 28, 202622 min
I Tested the Icelandic AI Learning Platform So You Don’t Have To – The Pros & Cons
Learning Icelandic can honestly feel overwhelming. If you’ve ever tried to learn the language, you probably already know that there are a lot of scattered resources online, different classes, private tutors, apps, YouTube videos, grammar books, and random websites that may or may not help depending on your learning style. One of the questions I get asked the most is how to actually learn Icelandic and what resources are worthwhile. Why I Wanted to Try Icelandic AI When I first heard about a program called Icelandic AI, I was really intrigued. Not because I thought it would magically make anyone fluent overnight, but because I was curious whether there was finally one platform that could bring many of these learning tools together in a more organized and comprehensive way. Just for some context, I’ve been living in Iceland since 2016, so almost 10 years now. I’m at an intermediate level in Icelandic, and over the years I’ve taken multiple Icelandic classes, worked with private tutors, studied on my own, and I regularly speak Icelandic with my boyfriend and his family. So while I’m definitely not claiming to be fluent, I do feel like I have a good understanding of what makes a language-learning resource actually useful. I also want to be transparent that I am collaborating with Icelandic AI in the sense that I reached out to them because I wanted access to the platform to test it out and share my thoughts with my audience. However, this is not a paid review, and I do not benefit financially if people sign up through the platform. I genuinely just wanted to see if this was a resource worth recommending because I know how difficult it can be to figure out where to even start with Icelandic. First Impressions of the Icelandic AI Platform Overall, I have to say that Icelandic AI is one of the more comprehensive Icelandic-learning platforms I’ve seen so far. The platform was created by Sandra, and the “AI” part of the name is actually referring to her AI twin or clone. So instead of it being like ChatGPT or Claude where the AI is actively learning you and responding dynamically, it’s more that Sandra has created an AI version of herself that guides you through the lessons using her voice and likeness. There are also additional AI characters named Monica and Oscar who help throughout the platform as well. At the time of recording this episode, I’ve completed about 55% of Level 1, which has already taken me around 49 hours, and I’ve also started Level 2. Even as someone who already has background knowledge in Icelandic, I’ve still found it useful as a review tool and as a way to reinforce concepts I’ve already learned. One thing I also appreciate is that the platform doesn’t feel rushed or surface level. There’s a lot of depth built into it, and you can tell that a huge amount of work went into organizing the information in a structured way. It’s not just random vocabulary words thrown at you. There’s an actual progression to how concepts are introduced and built upon over time. Now let’s get into the pros and cons. The Pros of the Icelandic AI Learning Platform <img decoding="async" width="1024" height="620" src="https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot-2026-05-28-at-17.19.20-1024x620.png" alt="" srcset="https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot-2026-05-28-at-17.19.20-1024x620.png 1024w, https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Screenshot-2026-05-28-at-17.19.20-3
- May 15, 20261h 30m
From Venezuela to Iceland: How Valenttina Griffin Built a Life Across Cultures
I sat down with an inspiring Venezuelan-born entrepreneur, Valenttina Griffin, who has made Iceland her home. Through a lively conversation, Valenttina shares her experiences of navigating different cultures, thriving in the tech industry, and her entrepreneurial journey that spans multiple continents. Join us as we explore her insights on leadership, the power of community, and the importance of personal growth. Valenttina’s Journey Across Borders Valenttina’s journey began in Venezuela, where she enjoyed a tropical, sun-filled upbringing surrounded by strong women and positive role models. She fondly recalls the freedom of her childhood and notes the cultural contrast when she moved to Norway as an exchange student in the early 2000s. Her adventurous spirit and curiosity led her to embrace this transition. Learning the Norwegian language and culture opened doors for her, eventually helping her adapt quickly when she moved to Iceland. https://youtu.be/O2q2l8V1bdU Save 25% on Your Stay at Center Hotels in Reykjavík The sponsor of this episode is Center Hotels, a collection of nine stylish hotels located throughout downtown Reykjavík. Whether you want to stay close to the harbor, shopping streets, restaurants, nightlife, or some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, there’s a location that fits your travel style. I’ve partnered with Center Hotels to offer my audience an exclusive 25% discount when booking directly through their website using the code ATI25 at checkout. The code is valid through May 2026, making it a great opportunity to save on your stay while experiencing some of the most conveniently located hotels in Reykjavík. Adapting to Icelandic Culture Life in Iceland was quite different. Valenttina immersed herself in the local culture, learned the Icelandic language, and embraced the insular lifestyle. She reflects on the warmth of Venezuelan interactions, marked by hugs and close personal contact, contrasting sharply with the reserved nature of Icelanders who value personal space. Yet, the support she received from the Icelandic community has been invaluable, helping her form a deep connection with her new home. Women in Tech: Establishing a Supportive Network* As a woman in the tech industry, Valenttina shares her personal experiences and challenges in navigating a male-dominated field. She is part of Women Tech Iceland, an organization that provides a platform for women to feel safe and share their stories. Valenttina emphasizes the importance of recognition for women in tech and the need for creating role models for future generations. The group facilitates events that foster community support and networking opportunities, bridging the gap between Icelandic and foreign professionals. Cultural Insights and Leadership Challenges Valenttina Griffin discusses the nuances of working in Icelandic companies and how she manages cultural differences. She has witnessed firsthand the challenges of integration for foreign women in the workforce, highlighting language as a significant barrier. Despite these challenges, she credits her success to the Icelandic language skills and cultural understanding, which have helped her build trust and rapport in leadership roles. Valenttina’s Approach to Embracing Personal Growth and Neuroplasticity Beyond her professional achievements, Valenttina is passionate about neuroscience and neuroplasticity. She believes in the power of personal growth and continuously adapting to change. Her advice to women, and to anyone seeking growth, is to love themselves, set healthy boundaries, and not ignore red flags in personal or professional relationships. These principles guide her as she navigates her entrepreneurial journey and raises her family in Iceland. Launching UGrow: Revolutionizing the Service Industry in Iceland Valenttina’s latest venture, UGrow, focuses on optimizing recruitment processes within the Icelandic service industry. This initiative aims to streamline seasonal hiring, ensuring that both employees and employers are well-matched and meet legal standards. By doing so, Valenttina hopes to improve the experience for foreign workers and support the thriving tourism sector in Iceland. A Vision for a Diverse and Welcoming Iceland Through her work with Women Tech Iceland and You Grow, Valenttina is helping shape a more inclusive and diverse Iceland. She envisions a future where international talent is i
- May 14, 202639 min
The Cost of a 5-Day Trip to Iceland. Local Expert Advice on how to budget for it.
Along with hearing about volcanoes, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and gorgeous landscapes, one of the biggest things people associate with Iceland is how expensive it is. And honestly, that conversation comes up constantly. It’s one of the most common questions when I am helping travelers planning their first trip here. Iceland has built a reputation online for being adventurous and fascinating, but also very expensive. And to be fair, it absolutely can be. Publications like Travel + Leisure have even ranked Iceland among the most expensive travel destinations in the world. From my perspective as someone who has lived in Iceland since 2016 and helped thousands of travelers through my podcast, social media channels, private consultations, and my in-depth video course, The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland, what stands out to me is this: most people don’t create a realistic budget for Iceland. Inside This 5-Day Iceland Budget Guide Knowing where to start with Budgeting for 5-days in Iceland Why the Season You Visit Changes Your Entire Budget What Kind of Iceland Experience Do You Want? Flights to Iceland Accommodations: The Biggest Budget Variable Rental Cars & Iceland’s New Road Tax How to Save on Renting a Car and Camper Van in Iceland The Hidden Iceland Expense Most Travelers Forget: Parking Fees Food Costs in Iceland Activities & Tours: What to Expect Use Discount Codes Strategically to Save Money Unexpected Costs Realistic 5-Day Iceland Budgets by Season Winter Budget Breakdown Shoulder Season Budget Breakdown Summer Budget Breakdown Knowing Where to Start with Budgeting a 5-day Trip for Iceland I think that people don’t always create a realistic budget for Iceland because they don’t know where to start. Travelers are often unsure about how much to set aside for accommodations, activities, rental cars, food, parking, or even how much the season changes everything. So instead of just throwing random numbers at you, I want to walk you through how I would personally budget for a 5-day trip to Iceland depending on your travel style, the season, and the choices you make while you’re here. Because the reality is that a 5-day trip to Iceland could cost one person around $1,300 and another person over $4,000 — and both of them could still have incredible experiences. <img decoding="async" width="1024" height="595" src="https://allthingsiceland.com/wp-content/uploa
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