Snorri Plus: Frequently Asked Questions
Program Overview
ELIGIBILITY AND APPLICATION PROCESS
q: Do I have to be of Icelandic descent to participate?
A: No, you do not need to be of Icelandic descent to participate in Snorri Plus. Many participants do have Icelandic heritage, others are "Icelandic by marriage" or through other family connections, and still others simply have a fascination with Iceland and a desire for a unique travel experience!
Q: What are the age requirements for the program?
A: Snorri Plus is designed for applicants 30 and over. How far over 30? Our oldest participant was in their 80’s!
Q: I have Icelandic citizenship. Am I eligible?
A: Icelandic citizenship does not automatically disqualify an applicant. However, priority may be given to applicants who have not previously lived in Iceland or spent extensive time in Iceland.
Q: I’ve been to Iceland before. Am I still eligible?
A: Yes, you are still welcome to apply even if you have previously visited Iceland.
Q: I have some medical, developmental or physical challenges; are you able to accommodate me?
A: Maybe; let’s talk! Please contact us to discuss options.
Q: How many participants will be selected?
A: The number of participants selected each year depends on several factors but is generally between 12 and 16. We do not allocate a certain number of slots for Americans or Canadians.
Q: What is the timeline for the Registration process?
Q: How do I register?
A: Click here to start the online registration process.
Q: Can I apply with my sibling/cousin/friend/spouse/son/daughter?
A: Yes, you and your sibling/cousin/friend/spouse are all welcome to register! Snorri Plus is perfect for family members who want to travel together. We've had couples, siblings, cousins, fathers and daughters, mothers and sons, and other multigenerational family groups travel with us.
Q: What if I am accepted but choose not to go this year? Will I have priority to participate next year?
A: If you are accepted but choose not to do the program for any reason, you are always welcome to reapply the following year, however, you will not necessarily be given priority. Please see our refund policy here
Q: Can I participate more than once?
A: Yes! We have several alumni who have gone on as many as four trips! While many of the elements of the trip are fairly constant, there are also a lot of changes from year to year, so no two trips will be the same experience.
PAYING FOR THE PROGRAM
Q: What does the program fee cover?
A: The program fee covers accommodation for the entire two-week trip; breakfast each morning, approximately half of your lunches and dinners; information kit upon arrival; domestic transportation when traveling as a group; culture program in Reykjavík (including lectures; Icelandic classes and course materials; and evening programs); detailed genealogy information; hosted reception to meet relatives; two-month access to the Icelandic Roots genealogy database and training; contact with Icelandic relatives; amazing memories that will last a lifetime, and more!
Q: Is airfare included in the program fee?
A: No, the cost of roundtrip airfare from North America to Iceland is not in your program fee. We can book it for you from Icelandair gateway cities in North America using your credit card information OR you may purchase your own - but please do not make any purchases until you have been accepted and the dates have been confirmed! (Click here for more details).
Q: What does the program fee NOT cover?
A: The program fee does not include round-trip airfare from North America to Iceland, souvenirs, some lunches and dinners, snacks or drinks between meals, alcoholic beverages, fees for activities that you choose to do during your free time (e.g. museum admission fees, transportation costs), medical or travel insurance. You may purchase your airline ticket yourself or have us do it for you. If you have further questions about what the program fee does or does not cover, feel free to contact us.
Q: Why should I choose to travel with Snorri Plus instead of planning my own trip or booking a group tour with a travel company?
A: The Snorri Plus program offers you the chance to see the land from which your ancestors left, learn why they emigrated, and see the country as more than just a tourist. You’ll have the opportunity to meet your Icelandic relatives, connect with locals who work in the same field as you or share your special interests and hobbies. You’ll also experience Iceland’s breathtaking natural landscapes while also having the opportunity to see the farms your ancestors live on (this is not guaranteed every year due to the vastness of Iceland). In addition to all that, you’ll become part of the Snorri family with opportunities to meet and socialize. Afterwards, you’ll also be eligible to apply for the Snorri Alumni Internship, spending another summer in Hofsós, Iceland.
Q: How do I make my payment?
A: Currently, payments must be made via international wire transfer. For North Americans, that generally entails a trip to your bank, though some banks may allow you to set up the transfer through online banking. Please note that participants are responsible for any transfer fees charged by their banks.
Q: What currency should I pay in?
A: All participants should pay the equivalent of the program fee which is listed in USD.
Q: When are payments due?
A: An initial payment of at least half the total program fee is due on or before the first Monday in March, with the remaining balance due on or before the first Monday in May. Click here for this year’s due dates. If you have any questions or concerns about the payment schedule, please contact us.
Q: Are my payments refundable if I change my mind, in case of emergency, if I have to leave early, etc.?
A: Under certain conditions, yes. Please click here to view our full refund policy.
Q: What resources are available to help me finance my trip?
A: Unlike the Snorri Program, we are unaware of any scholarships or grants for Snorri Plus. Some North American clubs provide a stipend for members going on the trip. We encourage participants to inquire about potential support from your local club or organization.
TRAVEL TO ICELAND
Q: Do I need a visa to travel to Iceland?
A: If you are a citizen of Canada or the United States, you do not currently need a visa to visit Iceland or other Shengen countries as long as you do not spend more than 90 days total in the Schengen Area. However, you must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the end of your trip. If your passport will expire sooner, you will need to renew it before the trip. Please note that new regulations requiring North Americans to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver to visit countries in the Schengen zone (including Iceland) are slated to go into effect by the end of 2022. Click here to learn more.
Q: The Snorri office is obtaining my airline ticket. When and how will I receive it?
A: Tickets are generally purchased once the deposit is received and sent via email after your final payment has been received.
Q: How much luggage can I bring?
A: Tickets are generally ordered in the early spring and sent via email after your final payment has been received.
Q: I WOULD LIKE TO COME EARLIER OR STAY LONGER IN ICELAND/EUROPE. IS THAT ALLOWED?
A: Of course. However, you are fully responsible for planning and booking travel and accommodation outside of the program dates. If you are having us book your airline tickets, please contact us as soon as possible to request special arrival or departure dates. Note that if a participant requests changes to their travel dates after tickets have been ordered, they will be responsible for the change fee charged by the airline, plus any difference in ticket cost.
GENERAL TRIP QUESTIONS
Q: When will we get a detailed itinerary?
A: A detailed itinerary will be provided at orientation on the first day of your trip. To get a general idea of what your itinerary may look like, click here. Please note that the itinerary is always subject to change due to weather conditions, speaker availability, and other unforeseen circumstances. But as we say in Iceland, “Þetta reddast!” (it will all work out!).
Q: What sort of physical activities will we be doing?
A: The itinerary varies from year to year but usually includes some physical activities (almost always outdoor), such as walking, hiking, swimming, and horseback riding. If you have any physical limitations or concerns about something on the itinerary, please contact us.
Q: Do I need to bring cash or exchange money on arrival? Can I use a debit/credit card?
A: Icelanders rarely use cash, and you will be able to use a debit or credit card to pay for almost anything. However, you should check with your bank regarding any fees you may be charged for international transactions, including ATM withdrawals. If you do want to carry some cash, we recommend that you do not exchange money at your departure airport in North America. The easiest option is to wait until you’re in Iceland and then use an ATM to withdraw cash from a US or Canadian account.
Q: Will I be able to do laundry?
A: Access to laundry facilities in Reykjavík may vary depending on that year’s accommodation, but are generally not easily available. Please check with the program manager for up-to-date information.
Q: WHAT SHOULD I PACK?
Q: What if I experience culture shock?
A: Experiencing culture shock is a perfectly normal part of traveling to a foreign country. Even if you’ve traveled before and think you won’t experience culture shock on a 2-week trip, you might be surprised. You may feel a bit disoriented being in a new environment, surrounded by a different language and different cultural norms. The good news is, these feelings are normal, they will pass, and they can even help you develop a better understanding of yourself and lead to personal growth. If you are struggling with symptoms related to culture shock, like loneliness, homesickness, or other mood changes, know that you can always contact the program manager. If you feel comfortable, share your feelings with another participant; they might be feeling the same way!
Q: Should I bring gifts? If so, what?
A: It’s not required, but most people appreciate a small gift. We suggest something representative of where you’re from in North America for general gifts you may wish to share with those you meet during your trip. Many Snorri Plus alumni have created small documents containing current family photos, photos and histories of ancestors, brief history of emigration, maps, contact information, business cards, etc. to share with relatives they will meet.
Q: What weather should I expect?
A: Everything but scorching heat! Icelandic weather is famous for being unpredictable and changing quickly. In the summertime, average temperatures range from about 10-15 degrees C (50-60 degrees F), but can dip down lower and (occasionally) get a bit warmer. For most North Americans, that means dressing much more warmly than you’re used to in the summertime. You should also expect some rain and wind. Be prepared to dress in layers and don’t forget to bring a warm hat or headband and a pair of gloves or mittens. Click here for tips on what to pack.
Q: What if I get sick on the trip?
Answer to question 8
Q: Will I have any free time?
A: Yes! Although the two-week program is jam-packed with classes and activities, there is some free time built into the schedule, particularly in the evenings and on the weekends.
Q: Am I allowed to drink alcohol on the trip? What about smoking or vaping?
A: Participants are expected to follow all local laws, be respectful, and behave responsibly as representatives of Snorri Plus. In Iceland, you must be 20 to purchase or consume alcohol and 18 to purchase or use tobacco or vaping products. Iceland’s smoking laws are quite restrictive, so if you’re a smoker, it’s your responsibility to make sure you’re well informed.
Q: Do I need to have health insurance for the trip?
A: Yes, we strongly recommend that all participants carry an insurance policy that covers a minimum of medical, evacuation, and trip cancellation. The majority of North American medical insurance does not cover people outside of their provider area. Your program fee does not include any insurance coverage; it is up to you to obtain coverage and familiarize yourself with the terms. Click here for more information.
Q: What else can I do ahead of time to make sure I have the best experience possible?
A: Once you’ve been accepted, check your email regularly so you don’t miss out on any important information from us. Make sure you complete the required online language course. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can continue on to the next level of Icelandic Online or check out some other language-learning resources here. You may also want to talk to your family members about your Icelandic heritage and see if you have any family photos or stories that might be fun to share with your Icelandic relatives.
Additional suggestions:
For current events enthusiasts: If you want to stay informed about what’s happening in Iceland, there are several English-language news sites, including Iceland Review, Iceland Monitor, and the Reykjavík Grapevine. Or put those language skills to the test and see what you can work out on Icelandic sites like RÚV, Vísir, or Morgunblaðið!
For bookworms: Every year, more and more Icelandic books come out in English translation. Check your local bookstore or library for titles by authors like Halldór Laxness, Sjón, Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir, Andri Snær Magnason, Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, and Arnaldur Indriðason.
For music lovers: Iceland has a thriving music and cultural scene, and you can easy find Icelandic music playlists on Spotify, YouTube, and elsewhere.
For couch potatoes: Netflix often has a few Icelandic titles available. Even if you need subtitles to follow along, movies and TV shows are a great way to get your ear tuned in to the sound of spoken Icelandic.
Additional suggestions:
For current events enthusiasts: If you want to stay informed about what’s happening in Iceland, there are several English-language news sites, including Iceland Review, Iceland Monitor, and the Reykjavík Grapevine. Or put those language skills to the test and see what you can work out on Icelandic sites like RÚV, Vísir, or Morgunblaðið!
For bookworms: Every year, more and more Icelandic books come out in English translation. Check your local bookstore or library for titles by authors like Halldór Laxness, Sjón, Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir, Andri Snær Magnason, Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, and Arnaldur Indriðason.
For music lovers: Iceland has a thriving music and cultural scene, and you can easy find Icelandic music playlists on Spotify, YouTube, and elsewhere.
For couch potatoes: Netflix often has a few Icelandic titles available. Even if you need subtitles to follow along, movies and TV shows are a great way to get your ear tuned in to the sound of spoken Icelandic.
Q: I still have questions. Who can I ask?
A: Contact us for general questions, including questions about eligibility, the application process, and payments. If you would like to talk to a former participant about their experience, email the Snorri Alumni Association at snorrialumni@gmail.com or send them a DM on Instagram (@snorrialumni) and they will put you in touch with an alum!
ELECTRICITY AND TECHNOLOGY
Q: What do I need to know about electricity in Iceland?
A: In Iceland, standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz, compared to 120 V and 60 Hz in North America. Electrical outlets are the standard Europlug shape, with two parallel round prongs. Devices such as phones, tablets, and laptops are generally dual voltage, but you will still need a plug adapter in order to connect to a wall outlet. If you plan on bringing any electronic devices, we recommend buying a plug adapter in North America (they are available in the travel section of many larger grocery stores, as well as at outdoor shops like REI or MEC, and of course online). If you forget, you can always pick one up at a tourist shop in Reykjavík, but it will be more expensive. Note that hair dryers and straighteners are often single voltage; make sure you check before packing! We do not recommend bringing any single-voltage devices; without a voltage converter, they probably won’t be returning to North America with you, and you may even cause damage at your hotel!
Q: Will I have internet access throughout the trip?
A: Iceland is one of the most wired countries on earth. There is no shortage of places to connect to the internet in Reykjavík. The only time that you may not have continuous internet access is when on the road.
Q: Will I be able to use my cell phone in Iceland?
A: That depends. We strongly recommend talking to your service provider in North America before departure to find out if they offer international plans or what else they can recommend for using your phone overseas. Make sure you understand your plan thoroughly to avoid any surprising roaming charges. If you desire full capability locally, almost all newer phones are compatible with Icelandic SIM cards as long as they are unlocked. If your phone is locked, you will need to have your service provider unlock it before departure. You may also be able to have your phone unlocked in Iceland, but it may be expensive! If your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card from an Icelandic mobile provider.
Q: Should I bring a computer?
A: It’s up to you. If you plan on blogging or taking a lot of photos, you might want to, otherwise a phone and/or tablet should be more than enough to keep you connected.
REYKJAVÍK: CULTURE AND LANGUAGE PERIOD
General
Q: There’s an activity on the itinerary that I’m not excited about. Can I skip it?
A: It’s up to you; however, we strongly encourage full participation as the itinerary is carefully crafted to give participants a well-rounded experience. Please note that the cost of any group activities or meals you might miss when not with the group will not be reimbursed.
Q: What will a normal day look like?
A: A typical day starts with the group eating breakfast together at the guesthouse before setting off for the morning’s activities, which may include Icelandic lessons, a presentation, a visit to the Parliament, the US or Canadian Embassy, or more. The group will usually have lunch together to fuel up for more activities in the afternoon. For dinner, we may eat together at the guesthouse, go out together, or have dinner on our own. There will be some evening activities, but other nights you’ll have free time. Reykjavík is quite a compact city, but we will be on the move a lot, so be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes (at least one waterproof pair recommended).
Q: Will we have free time every day?
A: While we are careful to build some free time into the schedule, some days will be busier than others. You may have little free time one day but then be free after dinner the next day.
Q: There’s a certain topic I’m particularly interested in (e.g. nature, women’s rights, history). Will there be a presentation on that topic?
A: Maybe! Our cultural program varies from year to year depending on a number of factors. Topics covered in previous years include Icelandic history, nature/geology, politics, equality issues in Iceland, and literature. If there’s a certain topic you’re especially interested in, it doesn’t hurt to let us know, though we can’t promise to accommodate all requests. We can also help you find ways to explore your interests during your free time if you like.
Room and Board
Q: Will I have to share a room?
A: Only if that is the option you have chosen. Please view our accommodation options at the bottom of the main page (click here) and if you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.
Q: What will meals be like?
A: Most mornings, participants eat breakfast at the guesthouse. This is usually a European-style buffet meal featuring skyr (similar to Greek yogurt), breads, pastries, thinly sliced meats, fish, cheese, hard-boiled eggs, and sometimes oatmeal and/or muesli. Just over half of the days, we will eat lunch as a group; depending upon that day’s activities, it may be a lunch brought on location, served at a café or restaurant, or possibly boxed. For dinner, we will eat out about half the time including restaurants and home-cooked meals. The remainder of dinners you will be free to explore other options, interests at your own expense or perhaps visit with relatives. Depending upon your accommodation, you may be able to do your own cooking, too.
Q: Will I have access to a kitchen?
A: Kitchen access may vary depending on accommodation. If you have concerns related to allergies or other dietary restrictions, please contact us.
Q: I have a food allergy/intolerance or follow a specific diet. Will you be able to accommodate me?
A: We will do our best to accommodate dietary preferences but cannot guarantee that we will be able to meet all requests for all meals. For meals out, we will communicate with caterers and restaurants regarding any allergies/intolerances disclosed on your health information form or otherwise disclosed in a timely manner.
icelandic instruction
Q: Do I have to know Icelandic?
A: Unlike the Snorri Program, there is no Icelandic language requirement for Snorri Plus. The program is conducted completely in English and nearly all Icelanders, particularly those under a certain age, are conversant in English. You will have a brief introduction to the Icelandic language as one of many topics during your first week. Participants are encouraged to try such programs as Icelandic Online or another language learning program or app prior to arriving in Iceland, just to get a feel for the language, but this is not required.
Q: Can you recommend additional resources I can use if I want to learn more ahead of time?
A: Absolutely!
-The “Viltu læra íslensku?” (“Do you want to learn Icelandic?”) video series may be around 10 years old, but it’s an excellent resource for practicing your listening skills.
-Íslenska fyrir alla (“Icelandic for everyone”) is a fantastic (and free!) online resource with printable practice pages, audio files, and more. The website is only in Icelandic, so it’s a good choice if you’re really looking to challenge yourself.
-If you want to learn on the go, language-learning apps with Icelandic content include Memrise and Drops.
-Of course, you can always continue on to Level 2 of Icelandic Online.
-To get more familiar with how Icelandic looks, check out news sites like RÚV, Vísir, and Morgunblaðið. Some articles even have an audio feature, so you can listen and try to follow along.
-Find Iceland-related Facebook and Instagram accounts to follow! Some ideas might be the news networks mentioned above, RÚV Núll, Icelandic Roots, and of course The Snorri Programs and the Snorri Alumni Association.
-If you have a local Icelandic club, connect with them to see if they have any upcoming events or available resources. Not sure if there’s a club near you? Check the Icelandic National League of North America and Icelandic National League of the United States websites for a list of their member organizations.
-You can always check with your local public or university library to see if they offer access to any language learning resources for Icelandic.
-The “Viltu læra íslensku?” (“Do you want to learn Icelandic?”) video series may be around 10 years old, but it’s an excellent resource for practicing your listening skills.
-Íslenska fyrir alla (“Icelandic for everyone”) is a fantastic (and free!) online resource with printable practice pages, audio files, and more. The website is only in Icelandic, so it’s a good choice if you’re really looking to challenge yourself.
-If you want to learn on the go, language-learning apps with Icelandic content include Memrise and Drops.
-Of course, you can always continue on to Level 2 of Icelandic Online.
-To get more familiar with how Icelandic looks, check out news sites like RÚV, Vísir, and Morgunblaðið. Some articles even have an audio feature, so you can listen and try to follow along.
-Find Iceland-related Facebook and Instagram accounts to follow! Some ideas might be the news networks mentioned above, RÚV Núll, Icelandic Roots, and of course The Snorri Programs and the Snorri Alumni Association.
-If you have a local Icelandic club, connect with them to see if they have any upcoming events or available resources. Not sure if there’s a club near you? Check the Icelandic National League of North America and Icelandic National League of the United States websites for a list of their member organizations.
-You can always check with your local public or university library to see if they offer access to any language learning resources for Icelandic.
Meeting relatives
Q: How will I find out about my relatives?
A: A large part of Snorri Plus is connecting you with places and family in Iceland. We use both deCODE Genetics and Icelandic Roots to identify and locate relatives. You will receive a wonderful “family tree” document to help you learn more about your family history, as well as living relatives and attend a presentation to help you understand the information and allow for in-person questions.
Q: Will I be able to meet my relatives?
A: Probably! We will host a special reception early in your visit to provide you and your relatives who are available an opportunity to meet. When traveling outside of Reykjavík, we will set up visits as circumstances allow. In addition, we will provide you with contact information so you can connect with additional relatives as time and interests allow. Many Icelanders are avid travelers, so keep in mind that some of your relatives may not be available during your trip.
Q: May I stay with relatives?
A: We do our best to accommodate all requests to visit or stay with relatives, however, due to a wide variety of circumstances, that may not always be possible. We will do our best to make sure you still get a chance to meet them when possible, or at least receive contact information so that you may arrange your own visit. The cost of any group activities or meals you might miss when not with the group will not be reimbursed.
Q: I was a stay-at-home parent. What will the career portion of the program look like for me?
A: We will ask you about your interests and hobbies, as well as your occupational and/or educational background. We set aside time during the Reykjavík portion of your trip for you to visit on-site, in-person people, institutions or organizations that mirror your interests. Generally you may spend a half-day or full-day shadowing depending upon your requests and as circumstances allow. Previous participants have visited primary and secondary schools, universities, medical facilities, non-profits, garden centers, publishing houses, architectural firms, engineering firms, the Handknitting Association of Iceland, and all sorts of other places.
adventure tour
Q: How will we be traveling on the adventure tour?
A: Our primary mode of transportation on the adventure tour is a minibus or large van with a private driver. Depending on the itinerary, the group may also travel by ferry or on a larger bus or smaller boat for certain activities. Again, depending upon the itinerary, you may also take a small domestic plane during part of the adventure tour.
Q: What will our accommodation be like?
A: Accommodation during the adventure tour varies depending on the itinerary in any given year, but will be in guesthouses or hotels with either single or double occupancy rooms, as you have requested.
Q: Will we be together the entire time?
A: More or less, yes. We will spend a good amount of time on the road, and most activities will be group activities. However, there may be some optional activities, and you should have down time on at least some evenings and have the opportunity to meet up with relatives.
Q: What if the weather is bad?
A: There’s a saying in Iceland: “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” Some days, summer in Iceland means sunshine and a light breeze. Other days it might mean rain and gale-force winds. Of course, we hope you don’t experience too much of the latter, but you should be prepared for a wide variety of weather conditions. In case of severe weather, we will adjust the itinerary as needed. Make sure you’re prepared for Icelandic weather by reading through our packing tips here. You will receive a suggested packing list later in the year prior to departure for Iceland.
Q: WHAT DOES THE ITINERARY LOOK LIKE?
A: We switch up the itinerary every year, but it always includes a memorable mix of awe-inspiring nature and amazing activities. Some destinations from previous years include the Snæfellsnes peninsula, East Iceland, and the Westfjords. Every group visits Hofsós, home of the Icelandic Emigration Center. You will receive a detailed itinerary upon arrival.
Q: There’s a certain place I really want to visit. Will we go there?
A: Maybe! The adventure tour itinerary changes every year. Iceland may be a relatively small country, but there’s a lot to see. Unfortunately, we can’t pack it all into a single week, but we try to design our tours so that we cover a lot of ground without spending all our time on the road.
Q: What if I am unable to participate in a specific activity for some reason?
A: We trust you to make the right decision for yourself regarding your participation. However, please be aware that we will not give refunds for activities that you choose not to participate in.
Do you have a question you don’t see answered here? Please let us know by emailing info@snorri.is so we can answer your question and improve our FAQ!
