| Known as the Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland is home to | | | | You also have to remember that believing in trolls, |
| many volcanic mountains and glaciers which provide a | | | | elves, ghosts and other mysterious beings is a part of |
| magnificent scenery for tourists. It also offers a range | | | | the traditions in Iceland. Indeed, many Icelanders will tell |
| of outdoor activities, like whale-watching, kayaking and | | | | you that their unique rock and lava formations are the |
| horseback riding. Iceland has an interesting culture, as | | | | work of elves or trolls. Elf 'habitats' are also protected. |
| well, so before you hop on a plane to Iceland, it is good | | | | Of course, you don't have to believe in them but don't |
| to know even just a bit of it, like learning the basic | | | | treat the subject too casually, either. |
| Iceland customs. | | | | As a tourist in Iceland, you'll also be glad to know that |
| Just like other Western countries, one of the customs | | | | tipping is not one of the customs in Iceland. No one will |
| in Iceland is to shake hands when greeting while saying | | | | expect you to tip or throw you a mean glance if you |
| 'hello'. A kiss on the cheek is acceptable, too, along with | | | | don't, whether you're at a hotel, cab or restaurant. Still, |
| the greeting 'Sael' or 'Saell', an expression which means | | | | feel free to be generous when you want to. |
| 'happiness'. | | | | Iceland is also a nice destination for Christmas holidays. |
| Another of the Iceland customs is to remove your | | | | If you're planning to spend an Icelandic Christmas, bear |
| shoes in the hallway upon entering someone's home. It | | | | in mind that 'Gleileg jol gott og fars!' is 'Merry Christmas' |
| is also common for Icelanders to invite guests to their | | | | in the local tongue. Don't be surprised, either, if |
| home, so don't get surprised in case someone invites | | | | Christmas seems long, since it is one of the Iceland |
| you. Just be sure to bring a bouquet of flowers or any | | | | customs to have 26 days of Christmas and not just |
| other gift when you go. | | | | one, but 13 Santa Clauses! |
| When at table, you don't have to say grace before | | | | Now that you've learned about these basic Iceland |
| meals. You don't need to express gratitude, either, like | | | | customs, you're sure to have not just a memorable |
| the French or the Japanese (by saying expressions | | | | vacation but an enriching experience in Iceland. After all, |
| like 'Bon Appetit' or 'Itadakimasu'). Instead, eat heartily | | | | a country's attractions may make it a popular tourist |
| then thank your host after the meal by shaking his | | | | destination, but it is its people and culture that make it |
| hand. | | | | an unforgettable place. |