PROS and CONS of Living in ICELAND as a foreigner

[@PetrHerold]

What is your PRO or CON about Iceland? 🤔

[@your_local_commun1655]

I'm having a hard time finding real estate you know any websites?

[@banginzaza]

Yeah but I know you can get into some fun over there 😉😂

[@Zeiny905]

Hi @petr, how can I send a personal message

[@tahliahfuller7845]

I'Ve been to Iceland twice. In 2022 and 2023. I'll be back God willing, in 2024! I love Iceland! I love the unpredictable weather, the people, and the environment. However, as a musician looking to sing, I haven't found jazz venue. Where can I jam?

[@Potarnul]

The weather. No. Just no

[@enditakamweneshe6428]

Honestly, the rain wouldn't be a con for me at all, I actually like it when the sky is always looking gloomy and covers with dark clouds.

[@PetrHerold]

It really depends on personality, some people really like it, some cant stand it 😅

[@bogami2126]

Nice

[@billn.1318]

You would not be saying that if your line of work is in agricultural. You want the rain.

[@anyapqrra8011]

same! its why i love nordic countries

[@matthewjury4385]

So true

[@Halli50]

The myth about Iceland being a small community where "everybody knows everybody" is not far off the mark: Whenever I meet an Icelander abroad, be it Europe or Africa, it usually only takes about 10 minutes of chatting to find a common acquaintance, a friend or even a relative.

[@digitaldefect5889]

Its actually really far off, according to icelanders themselves.

[@TheKolboShow]

@@digitaldefect5889 1. you were literally replying to an Icelander saying that the myth is not far off the mark. 2. it's a bit of column a, and a bit of column b. there are PLENTY of people I don't know. even then, often when I meet someone new, they already know quite a few people that I know.

[@sigurjoneliasson38]

​@@digitaldefect5889 Actually it is like that I'm Icelandic 😊

[@aswespeak165]

@@digitaldefect5889are you icelandic?

[@MommaARA]

Living in Iceland sounds like my dream. Cold, I live the cold and crave it more as I get older. Quiet and peaceful....such loveliness. I am burnt out from city sounds, smells, and rudeness. I need the slow life to calm down and come back to nature. I miss community and respectful interaction.

[@latino.js1]

I've recently started living here and it is as good as advertised

[@anaisabel2956]

​@@latino.js1can you speak Icelandic? 😊

[@JacobSauers]

Im an American who has wanted to get out of the U.S so bad that I joined the military to get stationed overseas. Now that I’m getting to see the rest of the world, I’m considering places to retire. Iceland is one of the places I’ve considered and this video really helped me get more insight into life there! Thank you!

[@PetrHerold]

Glad it helped!

[@kuluskitur]

@@PetrHerold Don't forget Iceland is a very expensive place. Winters here are long, especially up here in the north - 8 or nine months out of the year. The weather is very changeable. And don't forget that Iceland is generally a very windy place. You into that? I'm a born and bred Icelander. 😉

[@billn.1318]

Learn Icelandic for several years. In fact, Iceland has a school for foreigners that they can take for a year that is specifically for immersion. I went there and took the 2 year course. Really helps a lot AND helps you get a job. Even if its working as a front desk at some tire store or what not, you would mostly use english due to foreigners. Learning even basic icelandic proves value. But you will find most icelanders would rather speak to you in english lol! But oh boy, they now have to be careful speaking icelandic around you because you understand what they are saying. No longer can they talk smack lol

[@davehigginson6126]

Not a good idea. Iceland is so expensive, you’ll go broke before you die. Perhaps you really didn’t think this through.

[@ConchRepublic2047]

@@kuluskitur Saunds like Upstate New York😂

[@barrel9158]

I was thinking about moving to Iceland right when I got enough money to make a self sustaining life style, sitting outside on my porch, warm thick jacket, living by myself, little to no energy, less pollution, no train horn every night, growing a mini garden inside, and now I see this…I’m still not changing my mind unless I don’t get enough money.

[@billn.1318]

You need at least $20-30k to move to Iceland. Iceland would actually evaluate your situation on why are living there. They will first and foremost validate how much you have. If you have under 5k in USD, you cannot live there (there are exceptions to this such as babysitters with Icelandic sponsors). Then you have to find a job. Suggestion is anything in tourism. They want folks who speak english and most icelanders dont want to work in menial jobs in hospitality or anything service related that has to make you serve food or cleanup a chair.

[@jebes909090]

Its REALLY expensive

[@Fegga1955]

@@billn.1318that bad?For the elite once again 🥲🥲

[@traceythomas3027]

I watch a lot of these 'pro's and con's' about living somewhere. YOU have, by far, done the best when telling of living in Dyrholaey. Most folks only talk about what THEY like or dislike, which doesn't always fit why people move to other places. You have given what the every day person neeeds to know...not what the rich would like to know. Thanks again. You've actually made me want to come and check it out!!

[@PetrHerold]

Thank you! Appreciate it!

[@andylutz3505]

@@PetrHerold I can vouch for you. You did the best job comparing pros and cons of living in a country that I've ever seen!

[@meid9158]

I really like when he said that he needs to appreciate with what is available. Here in the US, everyone is ordering from online shop and getting it delivered either the same day or the next. Living in Iceland, it can teach and help with over consuming things that you don't need.

[@comelys2071]

Lol this is true!! After seeing that I have to pay more for what I have shipped to my apt I don't even want it anymore! I'm used to shopping online, so yes this is gonna be a BIG DOWN FALL FOR ME!!

[@SL_BA]

We spent about nine days in Iceland several years ago. We loved every minute of it. I can't wait to visit again.

[@allterrainviking]

As a native Icelander.. Accurate. :) very entertaining video buddy.

[@CrazyCatLady293]

Quick question, I want to move to Iceland but I am unfortunately an American. I still want to move to and I am willing to push myself to do whatever it takes to move their and prove I ain't a bad person. Any advice?, any little bit will help ^^.

[@bramantehometechnologies9068]

I need links for jobs.

[@consulera9413]

Hey, thanks for this video! I am thinking about living in Iceland and going to college there, this really helped me a lot.

[@PetrHerold]

Glad I could help!

[@rajchaudhary4773]

@@PetrHerold do you have Instagram

[@mohitsingsisodiya7891]

have you reached iceland??

[@Icelandlove76]

We just came back from Iceland yesterday and made many Icelandic friends. We love it there and everyday is something new even if you don’t leave the spot you are in. Yes it has some draw backs, but for our family it’s perfect.

[@JobeMI6]

I would move to Iceland tomorrow, with what’s going on in Europe at the moment. If only I could bring my family with me.

[@hhjkhhhh6583]

You should move to south America then hahaha

[@fernandomaheco]

Iceland is still Europe xd

[@JobeMI6]

@@fernandomaheco 🥱

[@liamercader9616]

@@hhjkhhhh6583 In argentina speciffically? XD

[@johnm84]

Iceland is part of Europe.

[@jeffreykayjk1136]

I have never been to Iceland but I think you presented it well for foreigners. I have found that coming to a new country and enjoying your visit is dependent on your expectations. Thank you for your presentation.

[@bryantwhitis6446]

One of the pros is you can get an awesome unique sweater like the one you wearing. 😯😄

[@adewuyiopeyemi925]

😂 lols

[@nixzusehen851]

I like this video, i have always admired Iceland for it's proud people and beautiful nature. You put alot of effort in it, I also like that you changed your lamp's color for pro and contra. 😁

[@Meike164]

No other things to do than hike is great! Midgard is gorgeous!

[@panamamelissa]

I’m from Panama which is a tropical country in Central America and I live in south Iceland, is not that cold… And yes pharmacies closed on Sundays

[@juanpablofineart]

As a Central American, how hard or easy was it for you to move to Iceland?

[@panamamelissa]

@@juanpablofineart no problem if you like crazy weather and living in an expensive place 🤣

[@magallybetsabeangeleslopez615]

Hello Melissa! My husband and me are planning to live on Iceland, but I saw the video about nepotism... How is your experiencie about it?

[@panamamelissa]

@@magallybetsabeangeleslopez615 nothing compared to when I come from… here corruption and nepotism is relatively low in my opinion

[@millasaana]

Where do you live in south? I'm very interested in moving to Iceland.. From Finland

[@mojikatofficial]

Great content thank you for this very honest and straightforward

[@truthbsaid1600]

Amazing in depth analysis of Iceland.

[@johnokoro2424]

Very informative.thank you!

[@manuu-f]

The Icelandic language is like no other. It's like Old English and Norwegian had a baby

[@x-hunter3968]

Thanks for sharing the info..very helpful. subscribed!

[@benburns5995]

Hi Petr, this was a very interesting video about the Pros and Cons of living in Iceland. There is a couple that are You tubers that live in the United Kingdom. They visited Reykjavik Iceland around Christmas time last year and created a videos about different sites to see and experience there. The reason I mention it is, they experienced several snow storms while visiting and as challenging as it is there, can't imagine navigation and traveling around in the smaller rural areas during winter. I think one reason crime and violence is so low there, is that people are kept too busy to live day to day, with it's challenges, to act out and cause trouble. Must say the Wool sweater that you are wearing is so appropriate to keep one warm during winter with the snow and cold winds.

[@PetrHerold]

Yes! Getting around can get tricky sometimes, that's why people should always look which roads are closed or watch news. Icelanders always talk about weather and there is a reason for that, so people should listen if they say to not go anywhere on a bad day.

[@michaelhawkins7389]

@@PetrHerold So Petr about the farting thing to do with culture in iceland , you said if you go into a Restaurant people will fart, so dos that include Iceland woman ? as to me seems odd

[@PetrHerold]

@michaelhawkins7389 The farting was a bit of an exaggerated joke, it happened to me few times that people I barely met or didnt even know farted in front of me or in a bistro sitting at the table next to me, but I’ve got comments from Icelanders that this is not the case everywhere and that it’s not acceptable for them either. Depends where you are I guess.

[@michaelhawkins7389]

@@PetrHerold lol oh hahah

[@segullseagull3241]

I personally wouldn't want to move back to Iceland even though I'm Icelandic. Like you said, there are a lot of nice things but man, the bad things outweigh them. This includes awful and expensive public transportation, terrible weather, the constant gossiping, extravagant prices on almost everything + general cost of living, the lack of career opportunities, standoffish interactions in public, the lack of variety, the isolation, ill-informed media, the "keeping up with the Joneses" attitude and the overuse of prescription drugs. I've lived in Ireland, Spain, Gibraltar and Norway and I've had a better quality of life in each one of these countries. I usually just visit Iceland once per year to look at nature, see family and eat some childhood food that I'm feeling nostalgic about.

[@PetrHerold]

Interesting to hear this from an icelander! Thanks for sharing your side :) for me staying there just part of the year seems to be working better than trying to stay all year long.

[@segullseagull3241]

​@@PetrHerold that's a very good move by you. Being there all year long seems a bit much to me, especially if you're not a native. I don't think a lot of Icelanders' views of the country are as "negative" as mine but that mostly stems from the realisation that other countries can offer a way of life that suits me better. And I love settling down in a new place - the next move would probably be to Germany, Czech Republic, Austria or the Netherlands. But I hope that you experience the best that Iceland has to offer while you’re there 😁

[@oluwaseunakanbi8317]

​@@granttaylor4762hahaha. Though I like that animals are almost non existent in Iceland. Esp reptiles they raise my blood pressure and make me wanna puke. I live in a country with high density and varieties of plants and animals and a large fraction are predators that make your life so frustrating . You can imagine living with a high population of mosquitoes, scorpions, lions, hyenas. I totally agree with you that it is not a place to acquire financial wealth and the way our world is springing up unexpected natural and economical events that require you to have money to mitigate or overcome these events, I think it is best to hustle for good savings in highly industrialized capitalistic countries which are found in Africa, Asia, South America, USA etc though lately they are becoming ecologically disgusting and socially deplorable with tougher living conditions but if you wanna make huge revenues there, due to their capitalistic nature that manifests in high consumption levels and unchecked desire for competitive advantage leading to constant innovation and high import varieties. When you now reach that age that you can no longer hustle to gather capital and monetary wealth, then you can relocate to countries like Iceland, Norway, Greenland etc and live a more relaxed healthier life there cos take covid 19 and Ukraine war as examples, if something of such magnitude strikes Nordic countries, the government will provide free evacuation facilities for its citizens first or free vaccines. But if you have your own money and not really waiting on government's charity (welfare system) you can choose to get quick medical attention from a private hospital that offers top notch medical services or book a flight or pay for a quick escape route to a safer place in time of a horrendous war. But a country that is characterized by high taxes, expensive consumerism, strict adherence to other policies etc, leaving you with little to no savings, you get trapped. So you go to Africa, some capitalistic nations in Asia and south America with its attendant socio economic effects, you can make money in a way you won't ever imagine so just relocate quietly to socialist nations and die there. Cos I don't think there is any paradise on earth this era.

[@TFE134]

My wife and I visited a couple months ago and fell in love. We are talking about moving there in the future.

[@WheelieMacBin]

I lived and worked in Iceland from 1998 - 2003. I lived in Reykjavik. Many things may have changed since then of course. The long winter nights can be a bit of a trial, and mental health issues spike in December in Iceland. It is very expensive to live in the country as a very high percentage of the food is imported. Bonus does help a bit of course. Meat is mega expensive due to the ban on imports. Hangikjot is fantastic though. Cars can be very expensive to run. I owned a Mitsubishi Pajero that was on 38's. Those tyres are, you guessed it, very expensive. Reykjavik can have huge amounts of snow and combined with the ice, can prove to be an interesting experience. Yes, outside of Reykjavik, entertainment options are extremely limited. The nature is of course amazing, but you do need to treat it with respect, as it can bite back at any time. I used to enjoy climbing Mt Esja. If you are working in Iceland, taxes are very high and many people live their lives in constant debt. There is, or certainly was, also a very large 'black' economy because of those high taxes. Certain jobs can only be undertaken by those with recognised Icelandic qualifications, such as Blikksmidjan. It is a very good thing as it stops cheap imported labour from undercutting the local people. Dentistry is mega expensive too. It was cheaper for me to fly back to the UK to have 2 crowns fitted privately. Including the airfare, it was still cheaper than having the work done in Iceland. I had no problem working in Iceland, and people were fine in speaking English, they wanted to, but then I was in the business environment. Iceland in short, Great people, great place to live and work, but it is expensive.

[@oluwaseunakanbi8317]

Thanks for saying the hard truth for better travel plans. God bless. I think after one has acquired high savings in a highly capitalistic country though it has its wide range of shortcomings. At a time when you are no longer fit to hustle for financial success, best to retire to countries like Iceland cos I'm sick of the social ills of a highly industrialized capitalistic country .

[@Cuissedemouche]

Aaaah the plumber problem, they came to destroy my shower, and came back 2 month later to rebuild it. For two months it was swimming pool everyday to go take a shower. For me the biggest cons are the nepotism, food and prices (mixed with lack of variety) But otherwise those problems, it's a nice country to live in.

[@papillon1861]

Is Nepotism majorly affecting the job sector or merely something that can be overlooked

[@pidgedough5208]

its just that they are very busy and more plumbers are needed

[@Userofinternet85]

@@papillon1861 it is the nation of nepo babies

[@marcderiveau2421]

Yes the temperature is low in Iceland But still warmer than 40 years ago Anyway I prefer a 15-20˚C in Iceland than 35-40 in France

[@Jonb615]

Great detailed video!

[@mustachesally4134]

Nepotism is spot on. It's everywhere but it's really bad in Iceland. The truth is that Icelanders would rather give a professional job to an Icelander who has no experience vs someone from America who has 20 years of experience from their profession that worked with enterprise level organizations. The thing with that is they prefer Icelanders over foreigners because Icelanders are from Iceland and they local. They are from there and have families that company may know of and an Icelandic employee will Stay longer. A foreigner May work only a year or two then leave Or find another job. There's no consistency of foreign workers. Now, if we are talking about foreigners married to Icelanders, nepotism has a different flavor. Organization may consider your foreign wife or husband as they know you're here long term. Again, that is for professional jobs. If you are just there to work in the service industry, they hire anyone without nepotism. To beat nepotism is to know Icelandic. Not basic. I mean conversational Icelandic. If you surprise employers with your Icelandic and is actually good, nepotism is thrown out the door. They appreciate you more and the existing employees would elect to have a foreigner who speak their language because business meetings in a largely 95% all Icelandic staff will take place in - Icelandic. If it's a foreigner owned business, expect English.

[@iddet8867]

The language is the problem, not nepotism. I have often felt bad for highly trained foreigners working low pay jobs around me at work. In order to be functional in higher paid jobs, you need to speak and write Icelandic, even if almost all Icelanders that you meet speak fairly good English.

[@club1fan552]

Wow! LOTS of useful info but well condensed. I see that Australia has the second highest use of antidepressants on your list which will surprise many. Australia and New Zealand also have very high rates of asthma. Again surprising.

[@MemeMakerMaybe]

As a Canadian, the weather will probably be a little bit more intense but easy to get into

[@paulyfortissimo]

I visited Iceland a year ago and I loved it. Great food, nice people, and more culture than you think.

[@abandonedaccount123]

planning on living in reykjavik, it seems like such a nice place!

[@sangramlad-3922]

I like to live because of the good weather and environment

[@dodgecrockett3474]

Sangram, I also like to live. It's far more preferable than dying.

[@Alaedious]

Very interesting, thank you! 😊 🤜🤛

[@0tterful]

im only 18 and im considering moving to iceland. i know I have a ways to go, but hopefully, in due time, I can go from the US to Iceland. bcuz right now, the US is basically on fire. so this helped me think of where to go

[@durgadurgin1612]

I would love to move to Iceland but I don't have much money rn and I'm just getting started but I definitely want to keep researching stuff so that I can move there one day

[@echognomecal6742]

A number of things are the same/similar as living in a rural area where I am now. One BIG difference though is if I absolutely wanted to get back to Manhattan or other boroughs in New York, I could do so without extreme effort.

[@sigurdurgretarsson8527]

Good video, thanks for sharing. If I may add, someone farting or burping is definately not considered good manners here, just to make it clear. Of course there are people who do it, but having someone fart at a restaurant eating lunch? Never had that happen myself. It would not be looked upon as "normal", I´d go as far as say it would be looked at as extremely rude even here in Iceland! :) And burping is also considered rude, but like I said you´ll always get your barbarian exceptions to the rule. Otherwise, great video. There are ups and down to every country or city, we have our share of both of course.

[@iddet8867]

For me as an Icelander I found this very strange. I don´t think this is true. We are just as mannered in this sense as any other nations.

[@AVMermaid]

Not many activities? I would be too busy camping and hiking to be thinking about other activities 😂 Iceland would be a dream for me! But I don’t like that there is lack of fresh produce.

[@ricko2301]

He said if you don't like hiking there aren't many other things to do.

[@n0rmalna]

True only swimming pools and hiking - this what you can do During winter some skiing or winter sports

[@iddet8867]

If you are living in rural areas, and especially if your are living as this guy near Dyrhólaey, I can understand that there might not be much to do in the evenings, but there is a lot to do in the Reykjavik area; cinemas, bars, concerts, swimming pools and so on. I'm 70 years old and have little need for excitement, but I understand that there is an incredible music scene in the capital area.

[@OculusVector]

I'll be visiting for the lobster and Dettifoss, but anything outdoors is really what I'm looking for.

[@JNeil1975]

Silence is wonderful. I would enjoy silence and rainy days.

[@jamigraham6965]

Where are you from? :) this is an awesome video, thank you. I love Iceland!

[@PetrHerold]

Glad you liked it! I’m from Czech Republic :)

[@SirMinelli]

Nice vid. The only thing I would've loved you to talk about, is the income vs the cost of living. Is it better at Iceland or other Scandinavian countries?

[@PetrHerold]

I shortly mention that in my other video How to get a job in Iceland, but maybe I can make a separate video about cost of living in the future 🤔

[@xanderunderwoods3363]

Alaskan here, looking to move my business there. Weather and environment is pretty much the identical here, but Iceland seems much more stable and waaaayyyy less crime. Its funny our population is tiny, but Anchorage still has more poeple than your whole country. Everything is crazy expensive too. My biggest concern which is your Healthcare and public transportation.

[@herpederpe4320]

I want it cooooold. I am sweating like a pig during the summer in Sweden.

[@SuperGamli]

2 cents: Water is not an issue in Iceland. 99% of the time the flow of fresh groundwater to the sea is so great, the water used for homes has 0 effect on the total water economy. Comparing it to mainland Europe or other parts of the world is not useful.

[@jebes909090]

The best water ive ever had in my life was in iceland. Some guy was using a hose to cool down his hot spring and i took a drink from it. It must have been like glacier water or something but it was the cleanest most delicious water ive ever had in my life and he was using it for something like that 🤣

[@billn.1318]

don't take it an offense. But, Icelanders will always hire and give jobs to Icelanders first and foremost before they even consider a highly qualified, full of talent, of foreigner (regardless of ethnicity). If there is no Icelander that can take the job (Icelanders really go above and beyond to make sure), they outsource and find foreigners to work. Biggest shortage in Iceland are in the health sector. Also, learn at least basic icelandic. And it is expensive so if you do get hired by a company, make sure you have savings for 6 months just in case.

[@gidsamerosido6074]

We understand. That is what nations are supposed to do.

[@billn.1318]

@@gidsamerosido6074 Well, in the States, migrant workers can get work "easily" through their participating work agency. Migrant workers are needed in the states as most states like california for example, rely on hispanics (majority) and very few asians and middle easterns and regions from africa to do work related to agricultural and hospitality. States is obviously a large nation so they have a lot more room for those type of work as most americans do not want to do those of type of work. In Iceland, yes, they prioritize their citizens for work but due to the rapid growth of iceland and their economy is growing at a very fast rate - the need for professionals are needed in Iceland. But mostly, the tourism sector is where Iceland has the most shortage as yet again - if you see a non icelandic speaking employee at a hotel , they will most likely be from Poland and not icelandic as most icelanders see those type of jobs as "menial" jobs.

[@DENVEROUTDOORMAN]

​@@billn.1318need to kick out Illegals

[@marcderiveau2421]

What you explain about Amazon is long time ago Now you get your parcel within a week Amazon charges you with Icelandic taxes (25%) But it is still expensive due to the fact Amazon charges a lot for delivery

[@Userofinternet85]

the water is amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@sylvestergomes4345]

Thanks bro do more videos of iceland

[@kaydavisblogger]

I guess I am still not clear what people do for a living in Iceland. I have seen videos complaining of rents for 1 bedrooms at $1,600 a month. This is true in U.S. cities. What are your salaries there?

[@carole3877]

Is there good internet service? And if so is it affordable?

[@monvici]

How long it takes to get first residence permit and social security number when you move from another country?

[@JessieCori]

Nature beautiful but unpredictable.

[@jordigirvent9250]

I live in iceland, lam meat is not only one of the best I eat (must say I have work as a shepard so i know what im tolking abaud), its also only 7 usd a kilo witch is cheaper than romania. I will ad, in iceland the elecricity and water is free, and the hot water is 55 usd per month, and you need a car just to get out of your home, because the wind will kill you

[@catharsis3083]

I actually was considering moving there and even though I get very cold easily (I hate the cold) and I don't like rain it didn't seem too unbearable for me. what killed me was the food part 😭 I'm a vegetarian WDYM fruits are expensive because they are imported 😭😭😭

[@YouNeverKnowWhoIsWatching]

speaking about the peacefulness of living in Iceland, what are the statistics of violence, like fighting in public. What are the chances of let's say a fight breaking out in a bar/pub or place light a concert or other area? I'm doing some creative writing about a fight that breaks out at a tattoo competition. I've been watching videos on Iceland to get a feel for the geography and landscape, but not I'd like to know more about the social culture so that my story will be more realistic. From what I keep hearing about 'everyone knowing everyone', I'm thinking a fistfight or similar argument is unlikely to happen? Thanks in advance if you get a chance to shed some light on this for me.

[@PetrHerold]

So I don't really know about fistfiights or physical fights in general, but I can imagine those happen sometimes, since drinking is big here. I remember going to a dance/party thing few years back and by 10pm everybody was blackout drunk and police waiting outside to check nobody is drunk driving. Also I've been hearing about more and more crime happening around Reykjavík (gangs apparently, breaking into cars, some murders, pickpockets in touristic sites) , so the good old times with no crime are probably over.

[@Mntguy-nr9vl]

Just found your channel I'm confused about people farting. That was my only takeaway from this whole video apparently it's an Icelandic thing to do. Like I do it in the privacy of my own time but I wouldn't go to the store and just start ripping them. That's crazy and you're serious. How did that become a thing?

[@3Comas]

I want to move to Iceland, but I’m Mexican living in America.

[@AjithaRajasekharan-o1s]

Very well explained brother. Thanks My son wishes to work in Iceland, can you guide us how to go about finding a job. Is there any government schemes for educated young people? Please guide.

[@CalebHerscher]

Beautiful country, peaceful and safe ….is a pro for me, con is the darkness and cold….

[@aguafria9565]

Sounds like living in Finland, and having experienced living in Poland for a few years, I can say that I personally prefer life back on Continental Europe, especially if you're raising a kid. Living in a so called 'developing' EU state seems to be the safest place to raise, well adjusted, happy kids.

[@n0rmalna]

I alsow prefer poland even food, weather and social life is enough happy reason for me compared to this boring, cold place

[@hysterikole1]

What was the safest country 14years ago, and what happened for it to lose top spot?

[@rizman6053]

I really love your videos! How about winter jacket, is it worth to buy one from Iceland, since the country knows winter the best. Any good brand that is not relatively expensive?

[@PetrHerold]

I’ve been wearing 66 North from Iceland for past 7-8 years and I really like them but they’re not the cheapest (as anything in Iceland 😅). They also have Icewear but I don’t like it as much.

[@rizman6053]

@@PetrHerold Thank you for the sharing! I will go to Iceland soon so will check it out if I can afford it for now :) If it last that long, considered a good investment.

[@PetrHerold]

In Akureyri they have 66 North outlet, where they have all the 66 North stuff on sale, so definitely look there if you visit!

[@rizman6053]

@@PetrHerold great for sharing this, I will check it out. Yes i must buy during sale, i checked the normal price online it’s beyond my budget. But im sure it’s a good brand from the reviews

[@heimirhkarlsson]

Buy things online, or when one is abroad. 66 north is far too expensive, more of a fashion label. We got cheaper stores, selling same or better quality clothes.

[@reginalnzubechimuonaka9676]

Honest guy

[@matthewmoseman8962]

I'm used to Wyoming and North Dakota in the USA. Very cold climates during the winter (-40F at the harshest) so this would be very welcome.

[@damiencampbell8320]

I have been to Iceland twice and I think it is a beautiful place. The people speak very good English and I found them to be very nice and unpretentious. Service is different than what some people may be used to - pack your own groceries, for instance, and don't expect small-talk from shop workers or hospitality workers, but that is okay. (I think most of the time when there is small-talk, it is insincere anyway). When you talk to Icelandic people outside of their work in a social context, they are really nice and have a good sense of humour. They are much more relaxed about "getting to know you better"! I got propositioned three times in two weeks, and I was not looking for it. One of the girls I met said Icelandic people are just more relaxed about sex than other people. I don't know if that is true, but it seemed like it!

[@christopherjared3624]

One day I'll die peacefully in iceland.

[@vs639]

Hey Petr! I would really appreciate if you could provide info on kennitala or documents required for an eu citizen in order to move to iceland.

[@mattoh.mp4]

POV: You just finished watching The Secret Life of Walter Mitty

[@sammencia7945]

Nepotism? In a country of 238,000? It would be impossible to hire only non-relatives.

[@Avarua59]

It is closer to 388,000 now.

[@Magnus_Magnusson_702]

Also, there is no crime because as I said before we are homogenous and not inherently violent people. Now, that could all change in the blink of an eye like what happened in Sweden. I am telling you RIGHT NOW DIVERSITY IS NOT A GOOD THING. Take that how you want but it is NOT!

[@ΧριστίναΧριστοδουλιδη-ν1ο]

Hi! I would like to ask how is the situation with the covid? Is vaccination mandatory for working?

[@PetrHerold]

Covid in Iceland wasnt that bad most of the time and even when it was spreading the most, it wasnt on a large scale I think. When it comes to work I’m not sure if it’s mandatory, probably not, but maybe it depends where you work as well. You should be able to find work without vaccine.

[@iddet8867]

There is no mandatory Covid vaccination policy in Iceland. Covid is a totally relaxed situation.

[@CrazyCatLady293]

I am an American and I desperately want to ditch my US citizenship. Do you have any advice on how much I should have saved?, what kinda work permit I need?, how to get my visa? Any advice can help me out.

[@burningcoal5705]

I think your insane unless you can speak Icelandic fluently. Housing and food is expensive as hell so probably 250k and your looking at no debt

[@Vainglory100]

@@burningcoal5705 Why would they need to speak Icelandic fluently?

[@kartik7375]

@@burningcoal5705 without any Job can I live there?

[@papillon1861]

Would you care to explain whether nepotism will majorly affect me if I was to look for a job with a Bachelor’s from the university of Iceland Thank you !

[@Sindrijo]

What kind of bachelors? I think it does depend on the sector a bit.

[@papillon1861]

@@Sindrijo in Business Is it easier to land a job

[@g.g.harrison5949]

lol I’m from New England, I’m used to the cold lol

[@marcderiveau2421]

If you have your identity number, you don’t pay for the hospital So the guy who pays 50.000 isk for stiches was on a tourist visa or something I get heart attack in Stykkishólmur. I•ve been carried by helicopter to Rkv Stayed 10 days in hostpital and paid nothing

[@xsyrie6804]

do they have housing estates is it dangerous there ?

[@PetrHerold]

They do in some parts, small but they exist. And it’s the least dangerous country on this planet :)

[@sotirisnakos7632]

A lil late but hope you can anwser i have been thinking of moving to iceland due to how peaceful and beautiful it looks but i am not sure if the occupation that i am going for is suitable which is a degree in tourism management whilst i am learning a whole lot of languages and if it isnt good can minimum wage make me live a rather normal life there?

[@PetrHerold]

Tourism is probably the biggest sector for foreigners to work in so you’re actually on the right track! Not sure of you’ll be able land a management position right away though but maybe over time you can get there :)

[@arteshinobi10.2]

They fart all the time? Good thing I don't have a sense of smell. Planning to move to Iceland since met someone online and watching this video makes me think a lot. Thank you very much

[@mariarossi6719]

So Icelanders have more flatulence? Surely not!

[@vanousisi8112]

I would like to live permanently there but I have a baby of 2 years old and I am black. I speak and write many languages .

[@phil_matic]

þetta reddast is literally the equivalent of the Hawaiian Ainokea

[@fdsfggr]

how is the gaming situation yo play on eu servers?

[@PetrHerold]

I played Apex on EU servers that had the best ping, which was around 100ms.

[@ryanmilanovic303]

Petr, are you from Slovakia?

[@PetrHerold]

Close enough! I’m from czech republic :)

[@itspaolarico6628]

I am a Venezuelan living in Venezuela and I have always dreamed of living in Iceland, if anyone knows any way to get a job in this beautiful country, please write me.

[@iddet8867]

Your would for sure run into your countrymen here.

[@danielhenderson7050]

Ok so let me tick Iceland off the job location lists😅

[@brandonwolf4073]

Where can i get an authentic sweater like that?

[@PetrHerold]

I got it as a gift but I would say try to find some small shops. Beware of the chinese knock offs in the most touristic places and gift shops. You can tell the difference by touching the material. Icelandic lopapeysa is from sheep wool and is a bit itchy and hairy. If it’s soft and tightly knitted it’s probably fake. The fake ones even have a tag “made in china”.

[@ele1003]

If your brother was insured in Iceland then there is no way he paid 50.000.kr..the ER fee is around 7000.kr - for uninsured people it´s a different story of course.

[@PetrHerold]

Honestly I dont remember, but he was working with icelandic ID for longer time, so he should have had it and paid a lot anyway.

[@Daandco.6589]

The weather being unpredictable reminds me of Ohio **Where I live right now**

[@iddet8867]

I once spent a summer in Ohio, and I can assure you that the weather in Iceland is way more unpredictable that there! The weather here is probably more unpredictable than most other places on Earth. I must add that weather forecasts have become very accurate in recent years, which is very helpful.

[@OpenEggs]

Do you know of any foreigners buying land in Iceland? If it is possible and/or frowned upon by natives?

[@n0rmalna]

You must have kenitala and be resident for 3years?! I know that Nordic people have an easy way to get life here

[@innerview6298]

Sounds good for me. Im very introverted and wanna live zen lifestyle. Only thing Im worried are volcanos if they erupt so often and how it's safe then?

[@PetrHerold]

Volcanoes don’t go off that often, it happened last year but it became a tourist destination more than a problem for locals. It’s a very safe country to live in, just winters can get harsh.

[@innerview6298]

@@PetrHerold ok, I see. Now Im more worried about how to pay rent there lol, I need to get semi-rich somehow. As the average salary covers small apartment rent and nothings left? Is massages and hypno therapy popular there? Do they have to worrie about war situationlike other countries. I know that they don't have military forces their own. Thanks for your comment! Regards from Estonia💚

[@PetrHerold]

War is not a thing for Iceland, they’re not really involved in anything, just observing the outside world from tv or radio. :D You should check out my other video “How to get a job in Iceland”, I talk about expenses and how much money can you make/save. It might help with your questions :)

[@Sindrijo]

@@innerview6298 Iceland is a member of NATO and it has a treaty with the US where it is responsible for the defence of the island. There is a military air-base but there have not been any NATO troops stationed since 2006, but since 2008 Iceland requested that other NATO members have been flying patrol/deterrence missions with 4-6 fighter jets and support planes because Russia was increasing activity in the region. Russians flew a few times around the island (circumnavigation) and there have also been detected submarines in the region. Iceland is very important strategically because of its location. The average Icelander basically never thinks about their own military security because it has no enemies and is friendly with all its nearest neighbours.

[@markushaahr9194]

As an Icelander: Pros, you get to live in peace. Cons: It’s Iceland. It essentially has all the worst qualities of the Nordic countries. Even Denmark beats it in quality of life.

[@lolipopPrincess]

Is it hard to live in Iceland as an American

[@PetrHerold]

No, I don’t think so. There is bunch of Americans living there. It’s more about your personality than your nationality, some people don’t like the weather or the isolation.

[@sheepketchup9059]

@@PetrHerold is the isolation due to unsociable/unfriendly people, or is it due to locations?

[@PetrHerold]

Kind of both, it’s hard to make meaningful friendships with locals but you can still make friends with other foreigners. You have to try to be social a lot and the distance from everything is not helping.

[@redefv]

How is the high-speed internet?

[@PetrHerold]

It’s pretty good I think. Depends where you are and if you have fiber optics or no. I run sometimes just on data and that is also very doable, just weather can sometimes mess with that.

[@iddet8867]

@@PetrHerold We have a very fast and widespread internet. People also ask Which country in Europe has the fastest internet speed? The top of the global ranking contains a lot of micro-states and dependencies. If we exclude those, Iceland (229.4 Mbps), France (152.5 (Mbps) and the Netherlands (142.5 Mbps) have the fastest internet in Europe.Jul 23, 2024

[@marcodellasanta9089]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@leon_hubik]

not much people around is a huge pro for me lol

[@bogami2126]

Nice