Banking Hours roughly follow office hours in Iceland; Monday to Friday, 09:15 to 16:00.

Iceland is one of the world’s safest destinations and you are unlikely to experience any problems with the local populace here. Crime is not totally immune to this land however, and basic common sense around Reykjavík’s major attractions and in busy pubs should be exercised.

If you are driving, make sure that you drive very carefully, particularly on mountain roads. Also, heed local warnings for any inclement weather should you be hiking in difficult areas. Those partaking in adventure sports such as skiing and snowboarding should make sure they have a good insurance policy in case of accident.

Emergency: 112

The krona is Iceland’s currency, which is abbreviated to ISK or Kr. Notes come in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000 and 5,000 kronur, and coins come in 1, 10, 50 and 100.

It is better to pick up your kronur at the airport on the way in to Iceland rather than at home, as rates and availability are usually poor in most countries. Head for the Landsbanki kiosk at Keflavik Airport on entry as well as on exit, in order to exchange any kronur you may have left over. All Icelandic banks offer foreign exchange and are open on weekdays. An easier way to get local currency is to use your ATM card; Cirrus-activated cards are generally accepted at most cash machines.

There are currently no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency visitors can import and export to Iceland, although ISK 8,000 is the maximum amount anyone person can import and export of the local currency. It is advisable to exchange foreign currency on arrival in Iceland to gain kronur, as it is difficult to obtain anywhere else. Cash is widely available from ATMs and banks nationwide.

Travellers are allowed to import the following amount of duty-free items to Iceland: 1 litre of spirits, 1 litre of wine and 200 cigarettes, or 250g of tobacco; 1 litre of spirit, 6 litres of beer and 200 cigarettes, or 250g of tobacco; 1 litre of wine, 6 litres of beer and 200 cigarettes, or 250g of tobacco; or 2.25 litres of wine and 200 cigarettes, or 250g of tobacco. Travellers can also import up to 3kgs of duty-free food worth up to ISK 13,000. To bring alcohol and tobacco into Iceland, travellers must be over 19 years and 17 years respectively.

Electricity: 220V/50Hz (European plug)

Although, on first impression, Icelanders may seem stuffy and unapproachable, they are in fact well-mannered and friendly. They are also easy to talk to, as most speak a modicum of English, especially in the main areas, and there are no real topics to stay away from during conversation, apart from steering clear of political arguments. Should you be stuck for ideas, talk about the weather. Like the British, Icelanders love to talk about the weather.

Icelanders are generally quiet, reserved and well-ordered during work and play, and visitors should act accordingly. Noisy behaviour while dining (less so in a pub) and on public transport will definitely be frowned upon. It is also expected that you dress appropriately, and wearing smart and conservative attire when out on the town is a good idea.

As one of the healthiest places in the world, you are unlikely to have problems regarding disease here. You won’t normally need inoculations prior to your visit to Iceland except when arriving from countries where certain diseases, such as yellow fever and cholera, are prevalent. Pollution levels are extremely low owing to the use of geothermal and hydroelectric power, and tap water is potable; it is said you can even drink the surface water.

Medical facilities in Iceland are excellent, with quality hospitals and clinics, and citizens of the EU can receive free emergency medical treatment with a valid European Health Insurance Card. Most drugs are available on prescription in pharmacies, although you should bring along copies of your prescriptions as well as the generic name of the drug. Most people speak good English in Iceland including doctors and nurses.

Coping with the winter weather when exposed in mountainous terrain and risk of accidents are the biggest health concerns to be aware of when visiting Iceland. Carry extra layers of clothing when away from towns and cities and take care near geothermal areas, standing back from mud pools and geysers.

National Hospital on Fossvogur: +354 525 1700

Iceland's VAT is 24.5 per cent, although this is included in prices and tourists can claim it back. You will need to ask the store for a VAT refund note when you spend more than ISK 4,000, then you need to present this note to the bank in Departures at Keflavik Airport. Tax-free shopping is available at Keflavik Airport. Thankfully, Iceland has not caught onto flagrant tipping and tipping is not expected in restaurants or taxis.

Iceland’s telephone code is +354 and all phone numbers are seven digits; there are no area codes within Iceland. Landline numbers are quite straightforward, with Reykjavík numbers all prefixed by 5 and all others by 4, while mobile phones are prefixed with a 6 or an 8. Phone cards are available in several denominations from post offices, petrol stations and selected stores, although not all payphones accept them.

Time: GMT

Citizens of Western European nations as well as citizens of America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Singapore among many other countries do not require visas to visit Iceland. Three months are usually granted on arrival, which can be extended at police stations around the country. Passports must be valid for at least six months on arrival to Iceland. All foreign embassies are in Reykjavík and if you have an emergency, call 112, and somebody will put you in touch with your consul.