Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland – Response Episode 4

This is the fourth episode for my segment “Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland”. Thank you to everyone who sent in questions. If you want to submit a question, you can do it here.You can check out previous Ask Jewells Anything About Iceland episodes here. Answers to the Questions That Were Submitted 1. Stephanie J. asked: "What is the tipping culture in Iceland?" Tipping in Iceland is not expected, nor is the service you get dependent on it. While you can tip if you want to, it is certainly not a part of the culture, and some might even tell you that they don’t accept tips due to workers being paid a livable wage. 2. Ana R. asked: "What are your favorites pools and spas around Iceland? Cheers from Brazil!" My favorite high end pools and spas are:* Sky Lagoon* Geo Sea* Forest LagoonWhen it comes to natural hot pools, my favorites are in the West fjords. They are as follows:* Laugarnes on Birkimelur hot pool* Heydalur hot pools and indoor pool in a greenhouse* Krossneslaug poolFor local swimming pools, I really like Lágafellslaug in Mosfellsbær and Laugardalslaug in Reykjavík. 3. Caroline said: "I’m traveling to Iceland from the US and I was curious if I should get some Icelandic kronar before I come to have on hand. I know Iceland prefers cards, but would having cash on hand be helpful?" Because Iceland is becoming an almost cashless society, using cash is not necessary. Even really small vendors take debit and credit cards. You are more than welcome to take out Icelandic Kronar if you want to but you don’t need cash. 4. Caroline said: "What is the tipping culture for tour guides? For example, is it customary to tip the guide and/ or driver if you do a whale watching or glacier lagoon tour?" There is no expectation or encouragement to tip your tour guide. Of course you can if you want to but it is not a custom in Iceland to do that. 5. Stephanie said: "I traveled to Iceland in March 2017 and flew Icelandair. The programming on the flight included tv episodes of an Icelander who had moved to a small town and talked about the life and activities in that town. It was great and I haven't been able to find it again! Do you happen to know what the show is, or can you recommend other shows about life in Iceland? Thank you!" Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find the show you watched on Icelandair. You can find some shows on RÚV that have English substitles. There is also a channel on RÚV that has educational content. However, it is only in Icelandic. 6. Kelly N. said: "What's a good way or place to get a daily summary of current events in Iceland (in English! ;) )...as I'm sure you know, the daily morning and/or evening New York times is what I use in the US...love your show! :)" Here are the Icelandic news outlets online that are in English:* RUV English* Iceland Review* The Reykjavík Grapevine* Iceland Monitor 7. Mariana said: "Have you ever been to the Inside the Vulcano Tour? Is is worth it? Thanks!" Yes, I have been to Inside the Volcano some years ago. I think the experience was unique and interesting. I know it looks quite pricey, but I felt like it was worth it.