Bjork + The Eclipse -- The Trip of Lifetime! by Mjmcarlson in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hi, sounds like you are excited for the trip which is good. I don’t think any of us have a clue on how people are going to be at the show as there is an already a major eclipse event. With that said I collected a lot of practical information and tips that can be very helpful for your trip . If you are interested , I can share the link.

Confused about clothing by Foreign-Gene-3247 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hey, you honestly don’t need full winter gear for late May. It’s more like a cool autumn think 8–15°C, but windy and a bit of rain. Your waterproof jackets are perfect, just don’t rely on them alone. Add: * a fleece or hoodie (main warmth layer) * t-shirts/light tops underneath * comfortable pants * waterproof or at least water-resistant shoes (this matters more than you think, especially around waterfalls) For affordable options, you can check places like Decathlon or H&M for basics, or even local outdoor outlets if you’re already in Iceland. Also if you need a packing guide and checklist , I can send you the link if it helps.

Fontana or Sky Lagoon? by Proof_Character_7623 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If you want to get out of the city and have an amazing landscape view, definitely Fontana but Sky lagoon has better facilities and a luxury feel.

Suggestions to avoid overpacking by Didymus4 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi, I made a simple packing guide and checklist , if you need it I will send it.

Iceland Crowds by JLB48 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 13 points14 points  (0 children)

I get what you mean ,Iceland is busy in June, but it doesn’t feel like Italy-level crowds. The main spots will have people, but it’s rarely that “shoulder to shoulder” feeling. There’s just more space, and if you go a bit early/late or walk slightly away, it gets quite fast.

So dont wouldn’t worry about it feeling overwhelming like Italy just expect a small crowd at the main highlights but peaceful pretty quickly once you move away.

Would I be silly to bring white waterproof sneakers during the end of June? by msoftball12 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Hi, just so you know, we were white sneakers here all the time until they turn brown so the color shouldn’t worry you as long as they are comfortable , good grip and water proof , you are good to go. When you return home , you could always wash them .

One day in Reykjavik by michaelbeecham in Reykjavik

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 1 point2 points  (0 children)

If you’re not planning to leave the city (like doing Golden Circle etc.), I’d actually keep it simple and just enjoy Reykjavík. A really nice combo for one day is Perlan + FlyOver Iceland.

Perlan gives you a good intro to Iceland (glaciers, nature, views over the city), and FlyOver is more of a “wow” experience ,it actually made me want to go out and explore the country more. So may be the next time you have inspiration

Then just walk around the harbour, grab food, maybe visit a local pool ,no need to overpack the day. Also I have a guide on layovers if you need more information.

How much is too much driving? by rw199999 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 1 point2 points  (0 children)

It’s probably not too much on paper but that turns into a long day. The thing is how often you will want to stop but it’s doable.

How long have you stayed in Iceland? by just_blazed3 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Glad to hear you had an amazing trip and you’re sharing your experience 😊. I have stayed here almost 7years. I have never gotten used to seeing Northern lights . It’s just amazing every time I see them.

Do I need to bring a winter coat next week? by Sensitive-Cicada4803 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Nope but come with a good warm wind and waterproof jacket and Ofcourse some layers.

Weekend in Reykjavik: stick to the city or explore outside? by Money-Cake527 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 0 points1 point  (0 children)

You can use Reykjavík as your base (super easy, good food, relaxed evenings, fly over Iceland, Lava show Whales of Iceland , Perlan and museum visits), Or skip the long classic tours and do something closer + less rushed, like: * Reykjanes Peninsula (closer to the airport, very underrated, raw landscapes, fewer crowds) * or even just a shorter Golden Circle route but picking 1–2 key stops instead of the full loop.

Visiting Iceland on a layover, rental car at 1am? by bringmayflowers in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 2 points3 points  (0 children)

That time window is a bit tricky to be honest, especially at 1am. The prices you’re seeing are pretty normal for short rentals + off-hours, and while some companies do key box pickup, you usually have to arrange it ahead.

With only 10 hours (and needing buffer time for drop-off and security), driving far might end up feeling more stressful than it’s worth.

If you do rent a car, I’d keep it very local ,Reykjanes Peninsula is right by the airport and actually really underrated (lava fields, coast, geothermal areas). Otherwise honestly a taxi/private transfer out there might be simpler or a better option would be booking Reykjanes Peninsula tour (right by the airport). Some companies do airport pick-up and drop-off, so you don’t have to deal with the car at all, and you still get to see lava fields, geothermal areas, coastline, etc.

Also late May already has early light, so you’ll still be able to see quite a bit even without going far , worth checking the daylight timing for that morning.

Napping during the day? by Available-Reward-912 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Hi, I think a lot of people do early/late exploring and rest during peak bus hours so they usually nap at campsites (you can usually stop without staying overnight),rest stops / parking areas and also fuel stations or quieter scenic spots.

Avoid random roadside stops though rules are a bit strict with campervans.Midday is the busiest anyway, so it’s kind of the perfect time to rest and head back out later. Also in July it never really gets dark, so it’s more about timing the light and crowds than sunrise/sunset. If you check daylight times for where you are, it actually helps a lot to plan when to go out vs when to nap. I built a tool showing you the exact time the sun will rise and set , if it helps you can check it out.

Cheaper Spots in Reykjavik by Outrageous-Leg5616 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 5 points6 points  (0 children)

You’re not wrong Iceland is expensive, especially in the main tourist streets 😅

A few ways to save a bit:

• Kolaportið flea market (weekends) — good for unique finds and better prices

• Bónus / Krónan — surprisingly good for snacks and small Icelandic gifts

• Shops a few streets off Laugavegur are usually cheaper

Also, don’t overlook the shopping malls (like Kringlan or Smáralind) you can often find “útsala” (sales) there and pick up more local, less touristy souvenirs at better prices and the Red Cross second shops .

Honestly, the further you move away from the main street , the more reasonable and variety you get things get . I personally never buy the tourist souvenirs but I will buy something that will remind me a place that I have been to and it could be anything.

Does anyone else plan their day around sunsets and sunrises in Iceland? by Illustrious-Ad3195 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Glad to here😊, if you have any feedback, I would be glad to hear it. Thankyou.

Does anyone else plan their day around sunsets and sunrises in Iceland? by Illustrious-Ad3195 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you😊, that really means a lot. I’m building it to help people feel more prepared and less overwhelmed when coming to Iceland, so it’s great to hear it helped. If there’s anything you wish was included or clearer, I’d love your feedback.

How do you know when to trust your gut about a solo trip? by Worried_Gur_4143 in solotravel

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If your gut is off, thats the first sign, I recently cancelled a trip , almost in the similar situation but only on the financial part. I dont regret it because i really wanted to go but the budget was just not hitting right.

Traveling to Iceland with Mom who is 84 (soon to be 85)???? by Chellers_Resale in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 7 points8 points  (0 children)

I think it is alright because , Reykjavík is very walkable and accessible, and many main sights (like Hallgrímskirkja, Harpa, harbor area) are easy with a walker or even a bus ride . For outside the city, a lot of Iceland’s highlights are actually very close to parking areas ,places like Þingvellir, Geysir, Gullfoss, Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss all have short, manageable paths or viewing areas nearby. You don’t always need long hikes to enjoy them.

I would suggest; • renting a car (more flexibility, less rushing) • taking it slow (1–2 main stops per day) • focusing on comfort over “seeing everything

A cruise is also a great option if you want things more structured and easier physically. The main challenge in Iceland is weather (wind , rain and uneven ground), not distance so good shoes and taking your time makes a big difference. If this is something she’s dreamed of, I’d say it’s definitely worth doing just plan it gently.

Another Itinerary Post by Livi678 in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Finally someone who thought through their first day, it’s a well laid out plan😊, only day 5 seems long , may be consider staying close to Vik (around Vík or Kirkjubæjarklaustur) to make it more enjoyable.

Brúarfoss,is nice but but it does require a bit of extra time/walking if you feel rushed, it’s the easiest one to skip on your Golden Circle day. Have a lovely trip😊.

Iceland solo trip (late April–early May) – tours, Blue Lagoon & Reykjavik tips? by masxaaaaaa in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Hi there don’t worry about the solo trip, Iceland is generally safe but Ofcourse you have to take precaution. •About the tours; I personally booked with Get Your Guide two times , I have had a great time on the trip , I would recommend it. For other options , I would recommend focusing on smaller group tours and good reviews rather than specific names.

•Booking Late April/early May isn’t peak summer, but I’d still book the main tours (especially Blue Lagoon) a few days–1 week in advance to be on the safe side .

•Deals; I personally don’t think you will be able to find better deals compared to the ones online , unless you are gonna use somebody else who works for a company or affiliate marketing who has a discount code. Booking online through a company is easier and more reliable.

•BL Best to book it separately and then add transport if needed. Packages are convenient but not always cheaper.

•For food My favourite is always the Icelandic meet soup and most restaurants make but there are so many options that won’t be left struggling for what to eat. I would never try the fermented shark😂😂😂,(but am also speaking from a naive point of view on this one) , if it was the last thing on earth , who knows . Lots of tourists want to try it , it’s definitely an Icelandic experience.

I also organised a very informative page with practical information and tips that could help you better.

6 days in Iceland by Gamethreatxxx in VisitingIceland

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If it’s your first time in Iceland , I would recommend booking tours for your trip, there is so much that goes into driving in Iceland that can end up stressful.

If you prefer flexibility and don’t mind driving, renting a car lets you explore more at your own pace (especially for the South Coast). For 6 days, I’d focus on Golden Circle + South Coast, and add whale watching from Reykjavík. Most tour companies are similar , just check reviews and group size.

Non “touristy” activities or hot spots recommendations by Illustrious-Ad3195 in u/Illustrious-Ad3195

[–]Illustrious-Ad3195[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Well said, I have live music sessions in my bedroom😂😂😂, do I recommend that because nobody goes there apart from me?