Iceland: A Photographic Expedition June 3-14, 2022

FAQ

Who is our tour guide? We will be led by locals who are experienced with American universities. They will provide us with insights about the local culture, geology, and history. Here is their website: https://understandiceland.is/

What should I pack? You will be provided with a list in our pre-departure meeting. Here are some things to keep in mind: The weather in Iceland changes constantly. In fact, Icelanders have a saying 'If you don‘t like the weather, just wait 5 minutes.“ During your stay in Iceland you can expect the temperatures to range from 40°F-60°F. There could be anything from bright blue skies to gray and drizzling, so come prepared for everything. Dressing in layers is the way to stay comfortable. Hiking shoes will also be a must for this adventure!

How intense are the hiking trips? Most of the time we will be strolling through areas that are either flat or hilly. In some cases, the group might hike for 15-30 mins to an area and then stay there awhile to take pictures. There might be a hike or two that are more strenuous, weather permitting. 

What is there to do in Reykjavik? You will be provided with a list during our pre-departure meeting. There are a lot of museums, outdoor adventures, whale watching, fishing, a geothermal beach, shopping, cafes, concerts, and bars.

Will most locals speak English? Almost everyone in Iceland speaks English, even the little kids! If you would happen to find someone that does not, most days the guide will be there to translate (exception: the last few days in Reykjavik).

How do I prepare my phone for international travel? Contact your phone carrier and ask about a temporary international plan, or if you want to use only free wi-fi ask them how to disable roaming and avoid unexpected charges.

Will it get dark that time of the year? It will be light 24 hours a day, the sun will be shining at 3 in the morning, which can trick the body into staying awake. This phenomenon is called the midnight sun. Bringing a sleeping mask is VERY IMPORTANT! From our guide: "I use it every night myself and I have lived here my whole life!"

What is included in the travel fee? Accommodations for all nights, transportation from airport upon arrival, transportation and all activities in the first 8 days of the trip. The last four days are independent of a tour guide, and therefore only the hotel is included. Students will be responsible for the cost of their meals and activities. Food and snacks are more expensive in Iceland than in the U.S. so it is recommended to bring snacks, such as granola bars, from home.

What is the itinerary while in Reykjavik? During the last four days, we will not have a tour guide. You will have the option to explore the capital independently or with the instructors. However, the instructors will meet the whole group at breakfast and note everyone's itinerary for the day. A buddy system will be required for students exploring independently, so no one will be left alone at any point even though Reykjavik is known for safety, crime is almost non-existent. The instructors have experience taking students abroad, have children of their own, and believe that safety and communication always come first. During those days, instructors will have some scheduled work time with the whole group as well, one of the planned activities is photographing the midnight sun, but the day chosen for such activities will depend on the weather.

What is the Currency in Iceland? The currency used in Iceland is the Icelandic Krone (pronounced “krona”), ISK. Credit cards are widely accepted. The current exchange rate is USD$ 1 = ISK$ 129

What About Public Transportation while in Reykjavík? Our hostel is right by the bus stop so we can easily travel to different parts of town. There is an app that lets you load a credit card so you don't need cash every time you hop on a bus.

Covid-19 Impact: Currently there are no tests or vaccines required, but that can change. Keep checking here. COVID-19 POLICIES: All participants, leaders and family members should check with their airlines for any additional COVID-19 testing requirements.

COVID-19 Vaccination:

All program participants, leaders and family members must be fully vaccinated, with 2 doses and a booster shot, against COVID-19 at least 14 days prior to departure. SAI will provide updates as they become available.

Local restrictions:

All participants, leaders and guests will abide by local laws for mask wearing, social distancing, and required presentation of proof of vaccination. Failure to do so may result in government fines or exclusion from program components. SAI cannot be held responsible for any fees or costs associated with failure to abide by local COVID-19 rules and restrictions.

Individual Cancellation due to COVID-19:

If individuals test positive for COVID-19 prior to the group departure date, they will work with their home university and SAI to arrange a delayed arrival and/or a remote coursework completion option. In cases where this in not possible, recoverable costs will be applied to the program balance or refunded to the university.

Itinerary Modifications due to COVID-19:

If a program-inclusive activities, transportation, or accommodations must be modified due to COVID-19 restrictions, SAI will provide alternatives.

Assistance in special cases:

Should a program participant, leader, or family member test positive during the time in-country, SAI will provide assistance with obtaining proper testing and medical care as well as guidance in following proper isolation or quarantine mandates. SAI can also assist in finding temporary housing as well as food and medicine delivery. Should an individual need to remain in the host country past the program end date because of a positive COVID-19 test, SAI can provide assistance after the program end date. If using SAI health insurance coverage through CISI, SAI can obtain continued coverage past the program end date. Any expenses incurred due to a positive COVID-19 test such as additional health insurance coverage, housing, food, medical care, or transportation will be the responsibility of the individual testing positive.