So You Want to Ditch the Sunshine for Glaciers? How to Get Your Florida Tail to Iceland's Icy Trails
Florida: land of theme parks, alligators (hopefully just at a safe distance), and enough sunshine to make a vampire reconsider their life choices. Iceland: land of fire and ice, where waterfalls cascade down moss-covered cliffs and glaciers glisten under the midnight sun (or the aurora borealis, depending on the season).
Intrigued by the idea of swapping flip flops for snow boots? Here's how to get your Floridian self from beach bum to Icelandic explorer.
How To Get To Iceland From Florida |
Buckle Up, Buttercup: Flights are Your Only Option (Unless You Have a Really Big Boat)
Yes, you can forget about hitching a ride on a Viking longship. While that would be undeniably epic (and possibly terrifying if you get seasick easily), modern travel involves a slightly less weather-beaten mode of transport: the airplane.
There are no direct flights from Florida to Iceland, but several airlines offer one-stop options. Flights typically take around 11 to 14 hours, so get ready to catch up on those movies you've been meaning to watch (or stock up on some duty-free snacks to bribe your seatmate into silence).
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Pro tip: Pack a good eye mask and some earplugs for a more peaceful journey. Unless you find the sound of a crying baby oddly comforting. No judgment here.
Picking Your Paradise: Where to Fly Into in Iceland
Iceland has one main international airport: Keflav�k International Airport (KEF), located about 50 kilometers from the capital city, Reykjav�k. Don't worry, pronouncing it is much easier than spelling it. Just say "keh-flavik" and you'll sound like a pro (or at least someone who Googled it beforehand).
How to Get from the Airport to Your Hotel: Brace Yourself for Adventure (or a Bus)
Once you land in Iceland, you have a few options for getting to your hotel:
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- Fly into Reykjav�k: There are a handful of domestic flights that connect Keflav�k Airport directly to Reykjav�k. This is the fastest option, but also the priciest.
- Bus: This is the most budget-friendly option. Several bus companies offer reliable connections between the airport and Reykjav�k city center. The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport, but be prepared for a bit of sticker shock. Cabs are the most expensive way to get to the city, but they are convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with a group.
Bonus Tip: Renting a car at the airport is a great option if you're planning on exploring Iceland beyond Reykjav�k. Just remember, driving in Iceland can be a bit of an adventure, especially during winter. Think snowy roads, potential whiteouts, and the occasional rogue sheep.
FAQ: Getting to Iceland from Florida - The Need-to-Knows
How to find the cheapest flights to Iceland?
Start by searching for flights on aggregator sites like Kayak or Google Flights. Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying into smaller airports in Florida if they offer better deals.
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How long does it take to fly from Florida to Iceland?
Flight times typically range from 11 to 14 hours, depending on the route and number of layovers.
What currency is used in Iceland?
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Iceland uses the Icelandic kr�na (ISK). You can exchange your USD for ISK at the airport or in banks around Reykjav�k.
Do I need a visa to visit Iceland?
If you're a citizen of the US, you don't need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, always double-check visa requirements before you travel, just in case.
What should I pack for Iceland?
Pack warm, waterproof clothing, layers, sturdy shoes, and a hat and gloves (even in summer!). Don't forget your swimsuit if you plan on visiting Iceland's geothermal pools.
There you have it! With a little planning and this handy guide, you'll be swapping the Sunshine State for the Land of Fire and Ice in no time. Just be prepared to trade in your beach towel for a warm scarf and maybe a camera to capture all those stunning Icelandic landscapes.