If I Were Going...: Musings on Norway and Iceland

Sunday, September 21, 2014

Musings on Norway and Iceland

Following our epic trip to Norway and Iceland, I have a few musings and observations:

Trains and buses are not good modes of transportation for photographers. We need a car – our own car.

We need wheels

We really aren’t city folk – we are much happier outside urban areas. I like them much better than Scott does, so I should visit cities with other people.

A chipped credit card with a PIN is essential in Europe, especially if you will be purchasing gasoline. But, beware, they don’t always work – it might be wise to also buy a few prepaid cards if you are going to be out in the wilds. Many gas stations are unattended or don’t take cash.

Most places had English translations on menus and instructions and most people speak English. Oddly, we had the most trouble in Iceland near the airport where we couldn’t find a gas station where we could figure out how to work the autopay.

Both countries have very high value-added taxes (25% in Iceland). Make sure to figure that into planning.

Cities can be nice, but they are pricey

Most (maybe all) hotels include very nice buffet breakfasts, some included and some extra (check when you book, it can be confusing). Some hotel bookings outside the city even include dinner.

Delish!

Norway has lots of tolls and ferries – that will be added expense for car travel. But, unlike in the U.S., you don't need to decide whether to pop for tolls or not.

Ferries are just a part of normal routes

GPS is a great asset in both countries; although Iceland has so few roads, getting lost would be tough if you stayed on the main roads. Norway's roads are very good.