This Just In: How Cheap Is Iceland, Really?
This Just In is a new weekly column at EuropeString.com featuring the week’s best European travel deals. Have something to share? Leave a comment or Twitter @europestring.
Since Iceland’s financial collapse*, everyone in the travel world has jumped on the “you gotta go to Iceland” bandwagon. But how cheap is Iceland, really?
Probably not as much as you’d think. Since Icelandic currency dive-bombed in September, it’s remained at 129 Icelandic krónur to 1 US dollar. That’s about a 50% discount. Good, but does it warrant a mass exodus to the land of ice and fire?
Well, it depends.
Have you always wanted to go to Iceland? Then this is a great time to do it.
More interested in other parts in Europe? Then you might want to stick with your plans.
Even with a 50% decrease in the exchange rate, prices aren’t as low as you’d think, because Iceland has been historically more expensive than other European destinations. With these reduced rates most hostels are charging at minimum $20 a night in the capital of city Reykjavik, with prices as high as $50 for a private room. Hotels start at $40 with more options in the $75- $100 range. So it’s a qualified bargain–for Iceland, this is a great deal. Of course, airfare costs remain the same, but on a seven day trip, you could easily shave off $200-300.
This Week’s Iceland Deals:
- Iceland Air is offering roundtrip air plus 2 nights accommodation starting at $479 pp.
Note: Before you book– be sure to check the dates. Iceland’s weather is mild during the winter but they only have 4-6 hours sunlight.
Can’t find the deal you need for your trip? Send me a twitter @europestring and I’ll put my industry contacts to work. Know about a great deal I haven’t mentioned? Tell me, and it could end up here in next week’s This Just In.
*(The good news is that Iceland seems to be getting the financial help they need.)
Creative Commons Pic by Daveness 98
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