Travel Guide to Sandoy Island

• HelloHalló
  [HAH-loh]
• GoodbyeFarvæl
  [FAR-vil]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNei
  [nay]
• Please/You're welcomeVælkomin
  [VAIL-koh-min]
• Thank youTakk fyri
  [tahk FEE-ree]
• Excuse me/SorryFyrirgef mær
  [FEER-ir-yeef myair]
• How are you?Hvussu gongur tú?
  [HOO-suh GOHN-gur too?]
• Fine. And you?Gott. Og tú?
  [gawt oh too?]
• Do you speak English?Talar tú enskt?
  [TAH-lahr too entskt?]
• I don't understandEg skilji ikki
  [yeh SKIL-yee EHK-kee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEg vil síggja menu, takk
  [yeh vil SEE-ya MEH-noo, tahk]
• I don't eat meatEg eta ikki kjøt
  [yeh EH-tah EHK-kee chyut]
• Cheers!Skál!
  [skowl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseEg vil gjalda, takk
  [yeh vil GYAL-dah, tahk]

• Help!Hjálp!
  [YAHLP]
• Go away!Far burtur!
  [far BOOR-toor]
• Call the Police!Ringi politi!
  [RING-ee poh-lee-tee]
• Call a doctor!Ringi ein læknari!
  [RING-ee an LAYK-nah-ree]
• I'm lostEg er týttur
  [yeh ehr TEET-toor]
• I'm illEg er sjúkur
  [yeh ehr SHOO-koor]

• I'd like to buy...Eg vil keypa...
  [yeh vil KEY-pah]
• I'm just lookingEg leiti bara
  [yeh LAY-tee BAH-rah]
• How much is it?Hvat kostar tað?
  [kvaht KOH-stahr tah]
• That's too expensiveTað er ov dyrt
  [tah ehr ohv DEER-t]
• Can you lower the price?Kanstu broyta prísin?
  [KAHN-stoo BROY-tah PREE-sin]

• What time is it?Hvat er klokkan?
  [kvaht ehr KLOH-kahn]
• It's one o'clockTað er eitt
  [tah ehr eyt]
• Half past (10)Hálv tíggju
  [HOWL tahy-yoo]
• MorningMorgun
  [MOHR-goon]
• AfternoonDagur
  [DAH-goor]
• EveningKvøld
  [KVUHLT]
• YesterdayÍ gjár
  [ee JOW-ar]
• TodayÍ dag
  [ee dah]
• TomorrowÍ morgin
  [ee MOHR-gin]
• 1Eitt
  [eyt]
• 2Tvær
  [tvayr]
• 3Tríggir
  [TREE-gir]
• 4Fýra
  [FEER-ah]
• 5Fimm
  [feem]
• 6Seks
  [seks]
• 7Sjey
  [shay]
• 8Átta
  [OWT-tah]
• 9Ni
  [nee]
• 10Tíggju
  [TAHY-yoo]

• Where's a/the...?Hvar er ein/het...
  [kvar ehr an/het...]
• What's the address?Hvat er heimilsheitið?
  [kvaht ehr HAY-mils-hayt-ith]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kanstu vísa mær (á kortið)?
  [KAHN-stoo VEE-sah myair (ow KOHR-teeth)]
• When's the next (bus)?Hvørji ferð er næsta (buss)?
  [HVOHR-yee ferth ehr NAH-stah (booss)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eitt kort (til ....)
  [eyt kohrt (teel ....)]

Sandoy Island, one of the larger islands in the Faroe Islands, has a history steeped in early Norse settlement. Archaeological findings suggest that the island was first inhabited around the 9th century, during the Viking Age. These early settlers were drawn to Sandoy's fertile lands and abundant resources, establishing small farming communities that laid the foundation for future development.

The Christianization of the Faroe Islands in the 11th century significantly impacted Sandoy. The island's earliest churches were constructed during this period, with the influence of the Norwegian monarchy spreading Christianity across the archipelago. Sandoy boasts several historical churches, such as the St. Mary’s Church in Sandur, which holds relics and artifacts dating back to the medieval period.

The Black Death reached the Faroe Islands in the mid-14th century, significantly affecting Sandoy. The plague drastically reduced the population, leading to labor shortages and economic disruption. Recovery was slow, but the resilience of the Sandoy inhabitants ensured the island eventually bounced back, albeit with a transformed social and economic landscape.

The 17th century was marked by dramatic events, including witch trials that swept through the Faroe Islands, Sandoy included. Several women from Sandoy were accused of witchcraft and faced trials and executions. These events are a somber reminder of the island's tumultuous history and the often perilous lives of its past inhabitants.

The Battle of Sandoy in 1579 was a significant conflict between local Faroese farmers and Scottish pirates. The pirates, having raided Sandoy, were met with fierce resistance from the islanders. The ensuing battle is legendary in Faroese history, symbolizing the bravery and resilience of the Sandoy people.

From the late 19th century onwards, Sandoy became integral to the Faroe Islands' burgeoning fishing industry. The island's strategic location and rich surrounding waters contributed to its importance as a fishing hub. Sandoy's fishing heritage is still evident today, with many of its inhabitants involved in the industry, and the island hosting various fishing-related festivals and events.

In recent years, Sandoy has experienced a cultural revival, with efforts to preserve and celebrate Faroese traditions. This includes the restoration of historical sites, the promotion of local arts and crafts, and the celebration of traditional festivals. The Sandoy Art Museum, for example, showcases the island's rich artistic heritage, attracting visitors and scholars alike.

Sandoy Island is part of the Faroe Islands, located in the North Atlantic Ocean. The most common way to reach Sandoy is by ferry from the capital, Tórshavn. The ferry, named Teistin, departs multiple times a day and the journey takes about 30 minutes. You can also reach the island by helicopter, with scheduled flights operated by Atlantic Airways, offering a quick and scenic route.

Once on Sandoy Island, you can choose from several transportation options. Renting a car is highly recommended for the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Alternatively, local buses operate regularly and connect the main villages. Biking is also a popular option, with well-marked trails and stunning scenery. Taxis are available but should be booked in advance, especially during off-peak seasons.

The official currency in the Faroe Islands is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and remote areas. ATMs are available in the main villages on Sandoy. Ensure you have enough cash for the ferry ride as well, although tickets can often be purchased online in advance.

Sandoy Island is generally very safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, it is always wise to take basic precautions such as safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. The local community is friendly and welcoming, contributing to a sense of security.

In case of an emergency, dial 112, the general emergency number in the Faroe Islands. Medical facilities are available in the main village, Sandur. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in Sandur where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress in layers and prepare for variable weather. Windproof and waterproof clothing is essential. Avoid overly casual attire when dining in finer establishments. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and remain quiet. Public Transport: Do be respectful and follow the local etiquette. Don't speak loudly or disturb other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello or 'Góðan dagin'. Handshakes are common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Faroese cuisine and be open to new flavors. Don't waste food; portions can be hearty and it is considered impolite to leave food uneaten.

To experience Sandoy Island like a local, visit the local cafes and try traditional Faroese pastries. Engage with locals who are often eager to share stories about their island. Don't miss the opportunity to hike to the island's scenic viewpoints, such as the top of Sandsvatn Lake. Participate in local festivals if your visit coincides with one, as they offer a deep dive into the island's culture.