PODCAST · society
All Things Iceland
by Jewells Chambers
Discover Iceland’s language, history, culture, & nature
Episodes
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How to Iceland-Maxx Your Trip: Get More Out of Your Time & Money
Apparently, we are maxxing everything these days. There’s sleep-maxxing, looks-maxxing, money-maxxing… so naturally, I’ve decided we need to talk about Iceland-maxxing. And yes, I know that sounds ridiculous, but stick with me because there’s actually a useful idea behind this. What Does...
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Planning a Trip to Iceland in Summer 2027? Start Now
If you are planning a trip to Iceland in summer 2027, this is your sign to start now. Yesterday would have been better, but today is the option we have. That does not mean you should panic and book the first hotel, rental car or tour you find. In fact, booking without first understanding your…
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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,...
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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...
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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…
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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...
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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...
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5 Places in Iceland Worth the Detour (That Most Travelers Miss)
There are places in Iceland that are easy to visit. And then there are places that require a bit more effort, but reward you in ways you honestly don’t expect. I’m sharing 5 places across the country that are absolutely worth the detour. These aren’t your typical Golden Circle stops. These are…
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Why Thousands Are Visiting Iceland for the Rare 2026 Solar Eclipse
The 2026 total solar eclipse is already drawing attention from travelers around the world, and for good reason. The last time a total solar eclipse was visible in Iceland was in 1954, and the next one won’t happen again until 2196. This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!...
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Iceland’s Most Delicious Holiday – Cream Bun Day (Bolludagur)
If there were ever a holiday that felt personally designed for me, it’s Bolludagur, Iceland’s cream bun day and, in my opinion, Iceland’s most delicious holiday. Bolludagur takes place every year on the Monday before Lent. And on this day, Iceland collectively agrees to eat an unreasonable amount...
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Bríet Ísis Elfar – Interview with Iceland’s Fearless Pop Visionary
Bríet Ísis Elfar is not just one of Iceland’s biggest music stars. She’s an artist who embodies fearlessness, authenticity, and constant reinvention. Her breakout English-language single In Too Deep in 2018 introduced her sultry, soulful voice to the world, but it was her 2020 album Kveðja, Bríet...
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5 Iceland Travel Myths – Winter Edition
There’s a lot of advice about traveling to Iceland, and not all of it is helpful. In this podcast episode, I’m breaking down five common Iceland travel myths that end up quietly costing travelers time, money, and energy. From unrealistic expectations about weather to misunderstandings around...
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Iceland Is Small But Here’s Why That’s Misleading
If you’ve ever looked at a map of Iceland and thought, “Oh wow, it’s tiny — we can totally see everything,” you are not alone. I hear this all the time. And honestly? It makes sense. Iceland looks small on a map, but traveling through it is a very different experience. I’m going to explain why...
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Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Iceland Obsessed Friend
If you’re searching for the perfect Christmas gift for that Iceland-obsessed friend in your life, I’ve got you covered. As someone who lives in Iceland and shares all things Icelandic year-round, I’ve rounded up a curated list of meaningful, cozy, and delicious gifts that will make any Iceland...
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A Pioneering Icelandic Actress – Aldís Amah Hamilton
Aldís Amah Hamilton is a trailblazing Icelandic actress, writer, and cultural icon. Born in Germany and raised in Reykjavík, she has starred in hit shows like The Valhalla Murders, Netflix’s Katla, and co-created the gripping series Black Sands. In 2019, she made history as the first woman of…
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3 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Iceland for the First Time
If I could go back to my very first trip to Iceland in 2013, knowing what I know now after living here for over nine years and traveling extensively around the country, there are three major things I would do differently. And I think these are going to help you as you’re planning your own…
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More Than Music: Iceland’s Pop Icon Páll Óskar on Life, Love & Legacy
Since bursting onto the scene in 1993, Páll Óskar—also known as Paul Oscar—has been turning heads, moving hips, and breaking boundaries. He’s not just a singer. He’s a performer, a provocateur, a fearless icon who has never shied away from being exactly who he is—openly gay, genre-bending, and...
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Is This Iceland’s Best-Kept Secret Stay? – Harmony Lodge Tour
I recently stayed at Harmony Lodge, and let me tell you… it blew me away. If the idea of relaxing in a private sauna and hot tub, surrounded by Icelandic nature — and away from the tourist crowds — sounds like a dream, then keep listening. I’ll also be sharing an exclusive discount you can use to...
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Why My Life in Iceland Will Never Be the Same
I have some deeply personal and exciting news to share with you today… I’m pregnant! 🍼💫 My mind is still blown that there is a tiny human growing inside of me. It’s been such a surreal, emotional, and beautiful experience. And honestly, it’s made me fall in love with this country in a whole new...
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Iceland Faces Pickpocket Surge: How to Keep Your Belongings Safe
If you’ve listened to this podcast for a while or reading my posts, you’ve probably heard me mention that Iceland is one of the safest countries in the world—and that’s absolutely true in many ways. Violent crime is incredibly rare, and the sense of community and trust is deeply woven into...
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Iceland in Summer: How to Dress Like a Local (and Stay Dry!)
Summer in Iceland is just around the corner, so I’m diving into a topic that comes up a lot—how to dress and pack for summer in Iceland. Whether you’re planning to explore glaciers, wander lava fields, hike to waterfalls, or just soak in the geothermal goodness, dressing right for Iceland’s...
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Reykjavík’s Live Music Venues — From Harpa to Hidden Gems
Whether you’re a fan of classical, experimental, indie rock, jazz, or even Cuban-inspired grooves, Iceland’s capital offers a surprising variety of venues catering to every musical taste. Today, I’m taking you on a virtual tour of some of the most beloved — and sometimes overlooked — places to...
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How Iceland Got its Name
I’m taking you on a journey back in time to uncover the story behind how Iceland got its name. This tale involves three adventurous Norsemen who each left their mark on this rugged island, but only one name endured through history. The First Two Vikings That Tried to Name The Landmass To hear the...
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Two-Lane Roundabouts are Different in Iceland – Know These Rules Before You Drive Here
I’m diving into an important yet often overlooked aspect of driving in Iceland—the unique rules of two-lane roundabouts. Even if you are from Europe, there is a good chance that Iceland does two-lane roundabouts a little different than what you expect. How to Save Money on Your Rental Car in...
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Your Step-by-Step Guide to Planning an Awesome Trip to Iceland
If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Iceland but felt overwhelmed with all the planning, or you’re just not sure how to make the most of your time here, then you’re in luck because I have the perfect solution. The Savvy Traveler’s Guide to Iceland is officially live! And in today’s episode, I’m...
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7 Reasons Iceland is Expensive & How to Make Your Trip More Affordable
“Why is Iceland so expensive?” is one of the most common questions I hear from travelers. After living in Iceland since 2016, I completely understand the sticker shock. Hotels, restaurants, rental cars, gas, and even groceries can cost considerably more than visitors expect. But there are reasons...
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5 Essential Do’s and Don’ts to Know When Visiting Iceland
Whether you’re planning your first trip to Iceland or you’ve visited before, knowing the do’s and don’ts can make your experience smoother and more enjoyable. Iceland is a breathtaking country with unique cultural norms, unpredictable weather, and natural wonders that demand respect and...
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Expert Advice on How to Hunt the Northern Lights in Iceland
In this captivating episode, I sat down with Christian Legère, the visionary behind Emerald Skies of Iceland, to delve into the mesmerizing world of the Northern Lights. As a seasoned expert, Christian has dedicated his career to guiding enthusiasts and travelers through the ethereal dance of…
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15 Free Things to Do in Reykjavík, Iceland
Reykjavík has a reputation for being an expensive city. Whether you’re planning your first trip to Iceland or you’re a return visitor, this episode will highlight 15 fantastic activities you can enjoy at no cost while soaking up the unique atmosphere of the city. I’ve crafted this list with both...
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10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Iceland for the First Time
Today, I’ve diving into one of the most essential topics for anyone planning a trip to the Land of Fire and Ice—‘10 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Iceland.’ From navigating Iceland’s famously unpredictable weather to understanding why tap water here is better than bottled, I’ll cover...
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How to Avoid Offending Icelanders: A Traveler’s Guide to Local Etiquette
Icelanders have gained a reputation for being laid-back, and welcoming, making their country one of the most delightful places to visit. However, like any culture, Iceland has its own unique customs and traditions that visitors might unknowingly overlook. While Icelanders are forgiving, certain...
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Katla Ice Cave vs Crystal Ice Cave – Which is Better?
There are two iconic and naturally formed ice caves in Iceland that have taken social media by storm. The pictures and videos have people from all over the world flocking to Iceland during winter to winter their beauty. Table of Contents: Save Money on a Katla Ice Cave or Crystal Ice Cave Tour…
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The Ultimate Betrayal: How Two Icelandic Wives Humiliated Their Husbands & Faced Consequences
Two married women argued about which of their husbands was the bigger fool. Finally, they decided to test their husbands to see if they were as foolish as they seemed. Want more Icelandic Folklore Stories? This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing an Icelandic folklore...
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The Strange Disappearance of the Bishop’s Maid
A long time ago, a bishop was traveling, visiting different areas he was designated in Iceland as part of his duties. As was common back then, he had a group of servants with him, including a maid whose job was to cook his meals. One evening, after setting up camp on a mountain, everyone went to...
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A Gentle Icelandic Troll Who Left Behind Mysterious Treasures
In the rugged highlands of Iceland, a troll named Bergþór lived with his wife in a cave called Hundahellir, nestled in the slopes of Bláfell. Unlike the fearsome reputation trolls usually have, Bergþór was a gentle giant, mild-mannered and kind—though not someone you’d want to provoke. Skilled in...
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Helgafell – A Wish Granting Mountain on the Snæfellnes Peninsula
From ancient times, Helgafell has been steeped in mystery and supernatural lore. Early settlers in the area believed this hill was more than just a geographical feature—it was a place of profound spiritual power. One of the first settlers, Þórólfur, held the hill in such high regard that he...
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Iceland’s Tipping Culture: What Visitors Should Know
Today, I’m tackling a topic that often confuses visitors—tipping culture in Iceland. If you’re used to tipping as a standard practice in your home country, Iceland’s approach might surprise you! This is a question I have gotten quite often in the “Ask Jewells Anything” segment of the podcast, so…
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Sprengisandur: Iceland’s Most Haunting and Beautiful Desert
Sprengisandur is a barren and desolate highland plateau in central Iceland, located between the Hofsjökull and Vatnajökull glaciers. Historically, it was an infamous north-south route connecting various regions, including access to the Alþingi (Iceland’s parliament) at Þingvellir during medieval...
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Iceland Inspired Gifts – 20% Off Everything for a Limited Time
To celebrate the relaunch of the All Things Iceland online store, I am doing a 20% site-wide sale. This sale is only valid through Wednesday, November 27th at 11:59 PM EST or while supplies last. Below are some examples of Iceland inspired gifts that you can get for yourself or a loved one this...
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The Cursed Elf Queen of East Iceland
Many centuries ago, a mysterious woman arrived in the small community of Nes in Borgarfjörður. No one knew where she had come from, but her beauty and grace quickly won the respect of the locals. She settled in Nes and gradually took control of the entire estate, becoming its mistress. Her name…
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Silent Terror: The Icelandic Ghost Story You Won’t Forget
This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a Folklore story every Friday in 2024. To hear other stories, I have shared so far, check them out on my website All Things Iceland. A Young Girl and Her Prankster Neighbor In a small Icelandic village, there was a young boy who...
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7 Fascinating Facts I Learned Inside Iceland’s Langjökull Glacier
Experiencing *Into the Glacier* in Iceland was like stepping into a different world—a frozen wonderland hidden deep within Langjökull, Iceland’s second-largest glacier. It was truly mesmerizing to see the glacier from the inside, which made me feel like I was in the heart of an enormous frozen...
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Not All Icelandic Trolls Are Villains: A Tale of the Skaftafell Farm Protector
This episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a Folklore story every Friday in 2024. To hear other stories, I have shared so far, check them out on my website All Things Iceland The Troll Woman & Bjarni Once upon a time, a farmer named Bjarni lived in Skaftafell. He was…
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Meet Iceland’s Guardian of Rare Books: Eyþór Guðmundsson
Eyþór is an Icelandic antiquarian with an impressive rare book collection. For many years, he has been collecting and restoring rare books, some of which are important original Icelandic manuscripts. We sat down to chat about his collection and so much more....
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Ásbyrgi Canyon: A Stunning Relic of Norse Mythology and Iceland’s Hidden Folk!
This is episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a Folklore story every Friday in 2024. To hear other stories, I have shared so far, check them out on my website All Things Iceland. Sleipnir’s Hoofprint: The Mythic Origins of Ásbyrgi According to Icelandic legend, the...
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What Makes Búkolla So Special? The Story of Iceland’s Enchanted Cow
This is episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a Folklore story every Friday in 2024. To hear other stories, I have shared so far, check them out on my website All Things Iceland. Who is Búkolla the Magic Icelandic Cow? Once upon a time, there was an old man and his wife...
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Is Dimmuborgir Iceland’s Gate to Hell? The Shocking Tale Behind This Strange Lava Field
This is episode is part of my Folklore Friday series where I am sharing a Folklore story every Friday in 2024. To hear other stories, I have shared so far, check them out on my website All Things Iceland. How Dimmuborgir was Said to be formed? Legend has it that Dimmuborgir, with its eerie rock...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does All Things Iceland have?
All Things Iceland currently has 300 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is All Things Iceland about?
Discover Iceland’s language, history, culture, & nature
How often does All Things Iceland release new episodes?
All Things Iceland publishes regularly with 300 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to All Things Iceland?
You can listen to All Things Iceland on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts All Things Iceland?
All Things Iceland is created and hosted by Jewells Chambers.
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