Known as the Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland is home to many volcanic mountains and glaciers which provide a magnificent scenery for tourists. It also offers a range of outdoor activities, like whale-watching, kayaking and horseback riding. Iceland has an interesting culture, as well, so before you hop on a plane to Iceland, it is good to know even just a bit of it, like learning the basic Iceland customs.

Just like in other European countries, you can greet other people in Iceland by shaking hands or saying ‘hello’. Aside from this, it is also one of the Iceland customs to kiss each other on the cheek when meeting. You can say ‘Sael’ or ‘Saell’, too, which denotes a wish of happiness.

Another example of the customs in Iceland is to remove your footwear in the hallway when you enter an Icelander’s home. Also, don’t feel surprised if you receive an invitation to be a guest in someone’s home since it Icelanders are known to be good hosts. Go ahead and agree to come. Just be sure to buy a bouquet of flowers or a similar gift for your host before going.

When at table, you don’t have to say grace before meals. You don’t need to express gratitude, either, like the French or the Japanese (by saying expressions like ‘Bon Appetit’ or ‘Itadakimasu’). Instead, eat heartily then thank your host after the meal by shaking his hand.

Keep in mind, too, that believing in mysterious or ‘hidden’ beings such as elves and trolls is part of the traditions in Iceland, so don’t bring up the subject about them casually. Indeed, most of the unique and sometimes bizarre rock formations in Iceland is attributed to elves or trolls, Elf ‘habitats’ are protected, as well.

Tipping, on the other hand, is not one of the Iceland customs, whether you’re in a hotel or a restaurant. This is something you’ll be happy to know since prices are relatively steep in Iceland compared to the countries in mainland Europe.

Are you planning on spending Christmas in Iceland? If so, make sure to practice saying ‘Gleileg jol gott og fars!’ first, which is the local Christmas greeting. Keep in mind, too, that it is part of the traditions in Iceland to have long Christmas holidays – 26 days, to be specific. There are 13 Santa Clauses, too!

Now that you’ve learned about these basic Iceland customs, you’re sure to have not just a memorable vacation but an enriching experience in Iceland. After all, a country’s attractions may make it a popular tourist destination, but it is its people and culture that make it an unforgettable place.

Isabella Olsen is a writer who has explored major tourist destinations around the globe, including Iceland, by car. To book your cheap car rental Iceland or learn more about cheap car hire worldwide, visit www.zencarhire.com.