Snorri West: Frequently Asked Questions
Program Overview
ELIGIBILITY AND APPLICATION PROCESS
q: Do I have to be of Icelandic descent to participate?
A: Yes, Snorri West participants must be Icelandic (i.e. have at least one Icelandic parent).
Q: What are the age requirements for the program?
A: Snorri West is open to applicants ages 20 to 30.
Q: I will turn 20 during the trip. Am I still eligible to apply?
A: Yes, if you are currently 19 but will turn 20 before the end of the program, you are eligible to apply.
Q: I will turn 31 during the trip. Am I still eligible to apply?
A: Yes, if you are currently 30 and will turn 31 before the end of the program, you are still eligible to apply.
Q: I have Canadian or American citizenship. Am I eligible?
A: Yes, having Canadian or American citizenship does not disqualify you from applying for the program. However, if you have lived or traveled extensively in North America, priority may be given to other applicants.
Q: I’ve been to North America before. Am I still eligible?
A: Yes, you are still welcome to apply even if you have previously visited North America.
Q: I don’t know if I have any relatives in North America. Am I still eligible?
A: Nearly every Icelander has relatives in North America! You are welcome to apply even if you do not know of any relatives who emigrated to or live in North America. We will help you identify and locate relatives and assist in meeting those within our travel area.
Q: How many participants will be selected?
A: The number of participants selected each year depends on several factors. Over the years, we have had groups as small as two and as large as eight participants. Four is probably the most common number of participants. We do not allocate a certain number of slots by gender.
Q: I was put on the waitlist. What does that mean?
A: If you’ve been waitlisted, that means all our available spots for this year have been offered to other people. However, if an accepted applicant chooses not to accept the invitation to participate or drops out later, that available spot will be offered to waitlisted applicants, starting at the top of the waitlist. Generally, you will hear from us about waitlist openings by one month before the program start date. However, you can always contact us if you have questions about your waitlist status at any time.
Q: If I’m not chosen for this year’s program, can I apply again?
A: Yes, of course. A wide variety of circumstances go into selecting each year’s group, and while you may not have been a good fit for one year, you may be just who we’re looking for the next time.
Q: What is the timeline for the application process?
A: Applications are due in February each year (check here for specific date). An in-person interview is usually held at the Snorri Foundation office in Reykjavík at the end of the week applications are due. (If you are unable to attend in person, you can interview via video chat.) Participants will generally be notified by the end of February whether their applications have been accepted.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Click here to start the online application process. Besides completing the application form, you will be asked to provide one letter of recommendation on your behalf. The letter must be written by an academic or professional acquaintance (no friends or family members, please) and be sent directly from that person to us via email.
Q: Can I apply with my sibling/cousin/friend?
A: Yes, you and your sibling/cousin/friend are welcome to apply, provided you both meet the eligibility requirements. However, all applications are evaluated individually, and it is possible that only one of you will be offered a spot.
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 this year for any reason, you are always welcome to reapply next year. However, you will not necessarily be given priority.
Q: Can I participate more than once?
A: Unfortunately not. Snorri West is heavily subsidized by generous donors, so participation is limited to once per person but we have lots of opportunities to stay involved after unpacking from your amazing Snorri West adventure!
PAYING FOR THE PROGRAM
Q: What does the program fee cover?
A: The program fee covers a hybrid in-person/video chat orientation prior to departure; joint events with North American Snorris when time allows; accommodation for the entire four-week trip; most meals; round-trip airfare from Iceland to North America; domestic transportation when traveling as a group in North America; one standard checked bag if flying within North America; admission to all group activities; three-month access to and training for the Icelandic Roots genealogy database; contact with North American relatives; amazing memories that will last a lifetime, and more!
Q: What does the program fee NOT cover?
A: The program fee does not cover travel insurance, souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, snacks or drinks between meals, fees for activities that you choose to do during your free time (e.g. museum admission fees, transportation costs), etc. If you have further questions about what the program fee does or does not cover, feel free to contact us.
Q: What resources are available to help me finance my trip?
A: Icelandic organizations, the Icelandic National League of North America (INLNA) and the Icelandic National League of the United States (INLUS) and their member clubs and individuals in North America provide generous donations to cover approximately half the cost of the trip. We are unaware of any grants, scholarships, or additional financing available for the program.
Q: How do I make my payment?
A: Currently, payments must be made to the Snorri Foundation account at Arion Banki. Deposit account information will be sent to you once you are accepted. Information about the payment schedule and fees can be found here.
Q: What currency should I pay in?
A: Payments should be made in ISK for the equivalent amount in USD.
Q: When are payments due?
A: Payment in full is due in the middle of March. Click here for this year’s due dates. If you have any questions or concerns about the payment schedule, please contact us.
TRAVEL TO North America
Q: Do I need a visa to travel to North america?
A: No visa is necessary, however a visa waiver is required by both countries. Canada requires the eTA visa waiver and the United States requires the ESTA visa waiver. You will need to personally apply for BOTH and pay after you have been accepted but prior to your in-person orientation. You will receive more information about how to do this and what information you need in order to apply once you have been accepted into the program. In addition to the visa waiver, you are required to have a passport that expires no sooner than six months from the end of your trip. You can learn more about North American visa waivers and passport requirements here: Canada / United States.
Q: Does the program fee cover domestic travel in Iceland, to get to the international airport from which I will depart for North America?
A: No. Program fees only cover round-trip airfare from KEF to your gateway city in North America. You are responsible for any travel costs incurred to get to KEF, including baggage fees charged by other airlines. Once you are in North America, all domestic travel expenses with the group are included in your program fee.
Q: When will I receive my flight ticket?
A: Tickets are generally purchased in mid-March after your payment is confirmed. Your ticket is an e-ticket and will be sent to you via email.
Q: How much luggage can I bring?
A: Please refer to Icelandair’s website for the most up-to-date information on baggage allowances. You are responsible for any luggage fees not included with your flight ticket (i.e. for extra bags, overweight/oversize bags). However, we strongly encourage you to pack smart and limit your luggage to one checked bag and one carry-on item. Keep in mind that if you travel via bus or plane within North America, you will have to follow additional luggage guidelines. Space may be tight when driving from place to place within North America, so luggage will be limited there too.
Q: I would like to come earlier or stay longer in North America. Is that allowed?
A: Please contact us as soon as possible if you would like to request special arrival or departure dates. Note that if a participant requests changes to their travel dates after tickets have been purchased, participants will be responsible for the change fee charged by the airline, plus any possible difference in ticket cost.
GENERAL TRIP QUESTIONS
Q: When will we get a detailed itinerary?
A: A detailed itinerary is usually provided at the hybrid Zoom/in-person orientation at the end of May or early June. 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 you say in Iceland, “Þetta reddast!”
Q: What sort of physical activities will we be doing?
A: The itinerary varies from year to year but normally includes several physical activities (almost always outdoor), such as hiking, ziplining, Segway tours, kayaking, swimming, and lots of walking. 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: North Americans use cash more than Icelanders do, though you will probably 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 the airports in Iceland or North America. The easiest option is to wait until you’re in Canada or the United States and then use an ATM to withdraw cash from your Icelandic account.
Q: Will I be able to do laundry?
A: You will be traveling frequently and access to laundry facilities along the way will vary depending upon your accommodation. You should be able to do laundry while staying with your host families. Please check with us for more 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, compounded by jetlag. Even if you’ve traveled before and think you won’t experience culture shock on a four-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 us. If you feel comfortable, share your feelings with another participant; they might be feeling the same way!
Q: Should I bring a gift for hosts? 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 Iceland or something you’ve made or created.
Q: What weather should I expect?
A: The North American continent is huge and weather conditions vary greatly. You will receive more information about the specific areas of the continent you will be visiting prior to your in-person orientation. In general, summertime temperatures can be quite high by Icelandic standards, with average temperatures ranging from about 25°C - 30°C, but can dip down lower and (often) get a bit warmer. Mornings can be on the cool side and air conditioning can feel overly cold in some buildings, so we suggest dressing in light layers. You should also expect humidity, some rain, and a bit of wind. For tips on what to pack, click here!
Q: What if I get sick on the trip?
A: Canada has a universal health care system; the United States has private health care. All participants are required to obtain their own insurance for the duration of the trip that, at a minimum, provides medical coverage. If you get sick or injured, the coordinator in your area will help you access the care that you need. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, dial 911. Please note that all accepted applicants will be required to complete a health history form and disclose any pertinent medical information to help us help you in case of an emergency. Participants who take prescription medication should bring at least enough for the entire trip plus a copy of their prescriptions. Click here to read more information on insurance.
Q: Will I have any free time?
A: Yes! Your days will be very busy, but there is at least one free day every week built into the schedule, and there will also likely be additional free time sprinkled throughout the rest of the week. Please be aware that all activities on the itinerary are mandatory unless otherwise noted.
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 of their host families’ rules and wishes, and behave responsibly as representatives of the Snorri West Program. In Canada, age requirements for consuming alcohol and purchasing/using tobacco or vaping products vary by province. In the United States, you must be 21 to consume alcohol. Age requirements for purchasing/using tobacco or vaping products vary by state. You will receive more information prior to your in-person orientation. Marijuana is legal in certain areas of North America, but due to inconsistent laws and international border crossings, we ask you to avoid all cannabis products while representing Snorri West.
Q: Do I need to have health insurance for the trip?
A: Yes, all participants are required to carry an insurance policy. It is your responsibility to obtain this and provide us with proof of coverage. Click here or more information.
Q: Do I need to have travel insurance?
A: Travel insurance is required, particularly for medical coverage. 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. If a response is requested, please provide it in a timely manner.
You may also want to talk to your family members about any family members or ancestors who emigrated to North America and see if you have any family photos or stories that might be fun to share with your North American relatives.
Additional suggestions:
For current events enthusiasts: If you want to stay informed about what’s happening in North America, there are several Icelandic-language news sites, including RÚV.
Or put those language skills to the test and see what you can work out on English sites like Associated Press, Reuters, British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), National Public Radio (NPR), Canada Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). Also check out the Icelandic community newspaper in North American, Lögberg Heimskringla.
For bookworms or couch potatoes: See our Suggested Media List.
For music lovers: North America has a thriving music and cultural scene, and you can easily find Canadian/American music playlists on Spotify, YouTube, and elsewhere.
You may also want to talk to your family members about any family members or ancestors who emigrated to North America and see if you have any family photos or stories that might be fun to share with your North American relatives.
Additional suggestions:
For current events enthusiasts: If you want to stay informed about what’s happening in North America, there are several Icelandic-language news sites, including RÚV.
Or put those language skills to the test and see what you can work out on English sites like Associated Press, Reuters, British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), National Public Radio (NPR), Canada Broadcasting Corporation (CBC). Also check out the Icelandic community newspaper in North American, Lögberg Heimskringla.
For bookworms or couch potatoes: See our Suggested Media List.
For music lovers: North America has a thriving music and cultural scene, and you can easily find Canadian/American music playlists on Spotify, YouTube, and elsewhere.
Q: I still have questions. Who can I ask?
A: General questions, including questions about eligibility, the application process, and payments can be directed to us at [email protected] . If you would like to talk to a former participant about their experience, email the Snorri Alumni Association at [email protected] 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 North America?
A: Those of you who are thinking of bringing a computer, hairdryer, or other electrical appliances, please note that in Iceland 230 volts and 50 Hz (cycles per second) are used, contrasting with North America’s 120 (115) Volts and 60 Hz. If your electrical appliance works with both types of current, (usually it will be indicated on the back of the item), you will likely only need an adapter for the type of three-pronged electrical outlets used in North America. If your appliance is not suitable for North American currents, you will need a converter, too, which can be expensive, but may be cheaper in North America.
Q: Will I have internet access throughout the trip?
A: Internet is widely available in North America, though speed can vary. There are no shortages of places to connect to the internet in metropolitan areas, and most, if not all, hosts will have wifi. The only time that you may not have continuous internet access is while traveling between destinations.
Q: Will I be able to use my cell phone in North America?
A: That depends. Almost all newer phones are compatible with North American 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 North America, but it may be expensive. We recommend talking to your service provider in Iceland 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 your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a prepaid SIM card from a Canadian mobile provider and another from a mobile provider in the US.
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.
Heritage and Culture
General
Q: What level of fluency does my English need to be?
A: Any Icelander who has completed required English courses in Icelandic schools should be fine. The vast majority of people on the North American continent with whom you will come into contact speak English, though accents, idioms, and vocabulary vary - even within the same country. You will meet people who speak Icelandic, but it’s likely to be an older version of Icelandic dating back to the main period of emigration and quite unlike your Icelandic! You may meet some contemporary Icelandic speakers, too. Your English does not need to be perfect, and in fact, the trip will be a great way to polish your English skills!
Q: Are all the activities on the itinerary mandatory?
A: Unless otherwise noted, yes. The itinerary is carefully crafted to give participants a well-rounded experience, and full participation is expected.
Q: What will a normal day look like?
A: Daily activities will vary tremendously but will usually have something to do with Icelandic settlement of the area and local tourist sites. We try to plan a variety of physical, cultural, and historical activities. You may start the day at the local history museum, take a segway tour of the city after lunch, then spend the evening at a gathering with Western Icelanders, including your relatives! The next day may be spent hiking and swimming at the local lake and roasting s’mores for dessert at a barbecue.
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. We schedule one day per week as a free day for you to make your own plans - or none at all!
Q: There’s something I’m particularly interested in (e.g. a site, museum, information) that I’d like to see or do. Will there be an opportunity to do that?
A: Maybe! Our itinerary varies from year to year depending on a number of factors, but generally includes some of the “must-see” tourist places in each location, as well as the Icelandic heritage sites. If there’s something 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: Possibly. Accommodation in each location is different and can include everything from camping in cabins to hostel-like accommodations, hotels, or private homes. Exceptions may be made for family members who stay with the same host family, but such arrangements will be cleared with participants beforehand.
Q: What will meals be like?
A: Meals will vary widely depending upon many different circumstances. Breakfasts with the group will often involve making your own meal or partaking of the accommodation offering, and during family stays you will eat with your hosts. Lunch will often be on the go when out and about with the group. You may eat a packed lunch, go to a local café, or dine at home with Western Icelanders. Dinners may be made with the group, hosted by locals, or eaten out at a restaurant. While we do our best to notify your hosts ahead of time of any food allergies or dietary concerns that you’ve told us about, we encourage you to speak up and remind hosts of your needs.
Q: Will I have access to a kitchen?
A: Kitchen access will vary depending on accommodation. All participants will have kitchen access during their stays with hosts. You will have the opportunity to let us know if you have concerns related to allergies or other dietary restrictions, and we encourage you to speak up during the trip as needed. If you have additional questions, 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. You will have the opportunity to provide us with information about any allergies, intolerances, or dietary preferences on a supplemental form for accepted participants. This information will be shared with the coordinators at each stop along your trip. When on the trip, we encourage you to remind your hosts of any special needs.
Travelling within north america
Q: How will we be traveling on the Snorri West trip?
A: Our primary mode of transportation is private vehicles and volunteer drivers. Depending on the itinerary, the group may also travel by ferry, commercial bus, smaller boat, or even by plane. Please keep in mind that North America is a huge continent and we will be covering a lot of ground!
Q: What will our accommodations be like?
A: Accommodations vary depending on the itinerary in any given year. We may stay in guesthouses, hostels, hotels, or private homes, and we may even do some camping.
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.
Q: Will we be tent camping?
A: The itinerary varies by year, but tent camping is rare. If we do camp, it will most likely be in cabins or yurts and all equipment needed will be provided.
Q: What if the weather is bad?
A: Generally speaking, summer in North America is much warmer than in Iceland, and air conditioning is common. Rain is always a possibility, and thunderstorms are quite common in certain areas. In case of severe weather, we will adjust the itinerary as needed. Make sure you’re prepared for North American weather by reading through our packing tips here.
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. We usually visit large metropolitan areas within each corridor as well as rural areas where we are more likely to find the story of Icelandic immigration to North America.
Q: There’s a certain place I really want to visit. Will we go there?
A: Maybe! The itinerary changes every year. North America is a huge continent, and each of our travel corridors covers a lot of ground, so it’s impossible to see everything. If you have a particular interest, let us know and we will see if it’s possible to accommodate it.
Do you have a question you don’t see answered here? Please let us know by emailing [email protected] so we can answer your question and improve our FAQ!
