Húsavík: The Whale Watching Capital of Iceland

• HelloHalló
  [HAH-loh]
• GoodbyeBless
  [BLETSS]
• YesJá
  [yah]
• NoNei
  [nay]
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  [GYOR-thoo s-voh vel]
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  [tahk FEER-ir]
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  [kvath SEY-ir thoo]
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  [EE-lah-gee. en thoo]
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  [yeh skil EHK-kee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseÉg væri til í að sjá matseðilinn, takk
  [yeh VYEH-ree teel ee ahd shah MAHT-se-thil-inn, tahk]
• I don't eat meatÉg borða ekki kjöt
  [yeh BORTH-a EHK-kee chyoot]
• Cheers!Skál!
  [skowl]
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  [yeh VYEH-ree teel ee ahd gray-tha, tahk]

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  [HRING-thu ee lighk-nin]
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  [yeh VYEH-ree teel ee ahd KOW-pa]
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  [yeh ehr BAH-ra ahd SKOTH-a]
• How much is it?Hvað kostar þetta?
  [kvath KOS-tar THEH-ta]
• That's too expensiveÞað er of dýrt
  [thath ehr ov DEERT]
• Can you lower the price?Geturðu lækkarðu verðið?
  [GAY-thur-thu LAY-kar-thu VER-thith]

• What time is it?Hvað er klukkan?
  [kvath ehr kluk-an]
• It's one o'clockKlukkan er eitt
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• Half past (10)Hálf tíu
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  [MOR-gun]
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• YesterdayÍ gær
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• TodayÍ dag
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• TomorrowÁ morgun
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• 1Eitt
  [ayt]
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  [tvuh]
• 3Þrjú
  [thryoo]
• 4Fjögur
  [fyuh-gur]
• 5Fimm
  [fim]
• 6Sex
  [sehx]
• 7Sjö
  [syuh]
• 8Átta
  [ow-tha]
• 9Níu
  [nee-oo]
• 10Tíu
  [tee-oo]

• Where's a/the...?Hvar er einhver...
  [kvar ehr ain-kvair]
• What's the address?Hvað er heimilisfangið?
  [kvath ehr hay-mil-is-fang-ith]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Geturðu sýnt mér (á kortinu)?
  [GAY-thur-thu seent mair (ow KOR-tin-oo)]
• When's the next (bus)?Hvenær kemur næsta (strætisvagn)?
  [kveh-nair keh-moor nysta (strait-is-vagn)]
• A ticket (to ....)Einn miða (til ...)
  [aytn meetha (til)]

Husavik is often considered the first place in Iceland where a Norseman permanently settled. According to the Landnámabók (The Book of Settlements), a Swedish Viking named Garðar Svavarsson arrived in Iceland around 870 AD. After circumnavigating the island, Garðar decided to spend the winter in what is now Husavik. He built a house there, giving the place its name, which means 'Bay of Houses'. This early settlement marked the beginning of human habitation in the area.

Throughout the centuries, Husavik evolved into a vital fishing hub. The town's location on Skjálfandi Bay made it an ideal spot for fishing and trade. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the fishing industry had become the backbone of Husavik's economy. The establishment of fish processing plants and the introduction of modern fishing techniques brought prosperity to the town and attracted a growing population.

In the early 1990s, Husavik began to gain prominence as a prime location for whale watching. The rich waters of Skjálfandi Bay are home to a variety of whale species, including humpback, minke, and blue whales. Local entrepreneurs recognized the potential for eco-tourism and started offering whale watching tours. This transformed Husavik into the 'Whale Watching Capital of Iceland', drawing visitors from around the globe and diversifying the local economy.

Opened in 1997, the Húsavík Whale Museum is a testament to the town's deep connection with marine life. The museum offers extensive exhibits on various whale species, the history of whaling, and the importance of marine conservation. It has become a significant educational and cultural institution in Husavik, further cementing the town's reputation as a center for whale watching and marine research.

Husavik has also made strides in harnessing geothermal energy, a natural resource abundantly available in Iceland. The town's geothermal plant provides sustainable energy for heating homes and businesses. Husavik's innovative use of geothermal resources exemplifies Iceland's broader commitment to renewable energy and environmental sustainability, showcasing the town as a model for ecological innovation.

Husavik is home to several cultural landmarks, including the iconic Húsavíkurkirkja, a wooden church built in 1907. The town also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Húsavík Music Festival and the Mærudagar Festival, which celebrate local music, arts, and traditions. These events provide a glimpse into the vibrant community life and rich cultural heritage of Husavik.

Husavik is located in northern Iceland, approximately 480 kilometers from Reykjavik. The nearest airport is Húsavík Airport (HZK), which primarily serves domestic flights. Alternatively, you can fly into Akureyri Airport (AEY), about 90 kilometers away, and then take a bus or rent a car to Husavik. From Reykjavik, you can also drive via Route 1 (the Ring Road) to reach Husavik, a journey that typically takes around 5 to 6 hours.

Husavik is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis and car rentals are available. Public buses connect Husavik to nearby towns and villages, but they may not run frequently. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the surrounding areas, including the Diamond Circle route, at your own pace.

The official currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Husavik, including in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available in the town for withdrawing cash. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and remote areas where card payments might not be possible.

Husavik is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and there are no specific areas with high crime rates targeting tourists. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places, and avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Husavik has a medical clinic and pharmacy for minor health issues. For more serious medical emergencies, you may need to travel to Akureyri, where there is a regional hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation if needed.

Fashion: Do dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Waterproof and windproof clothing is essential. Avoid wearing overly flashy or revealing clothing, as it may be considered inappropriate. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly or disabled passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport unless it's allowed. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Góðan daginn' (Good day). A firm handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as fresh seafood and traditional Icelandic dishes. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite. Be prepared for the high cost of dining out.

To experience Husavik like a local, visit the Whale Museum and take a whale watching tour, as Husavik is known as the whale watching capital of Iceland. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their town. Don't miss the opportunity to relax in the GeoSea Geothermal Sea Baths, which offer stunning views of the ocean. For a unique dining experience, try the local restaurants that serve fresh fish and other Icelandic specialties.