Travel Guide to Keflavik

• HelloHalló
  [HAH-loh]
• GoodbyeBless
  [bless]
• YesJá
  [yow]
• NoNei
  [nay]
• Please/You're welcomeGjörðu svo vel
  [GYOH-thoo svoh vel]
• Thank youTakk fyrir
  [tahk FIH-rir]
• Excuse me/SorryAfsakið
  [AF-sah-kith]
• How are you?Hvað segir þú?
  [kvath SEH-yir thoo]
• Fine. And you?Fínt. Og þú?
  [feent. oh thoo]
• Do you speak English?Talar þú ensku?
  [TAH-lahr thoo EHN-skoo]
• I don't understandÉg skil ekki
  [yeh shkil EH-kki]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseÉg væri til í að sjá matseðilinn, takk
  [yeh VYEH-ri til ee ath syow MAHT-se-thil-inn, tahk]
• I don't eat meatÉg borða ekki kjöt
  [yeh BOHR-tha EH-kki chyot]
• Cheers!Skál!
  [skowl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseÉg myndi vilja greiða, takk
  [yeh MIN-dee VIL-ya gray-tha, tahk]

• Help!Hjálp!
  [HYOWLP]
• Go away!Farðu í brott!
  [FARTH-oo ee brawt]
• Call the Police!Hringdu í lögreglu!
  [HRING-thu ee LOW-gre-glou]
• Call a doctor!Hringdu í læknir!
  [HRING-thu ee LAYK-nir]
• I'm lostÉg er týndur
  [yeh air TEEN-thur]
• I'm illÉg er veikur
  [yeh air VAY-kur]

• I'd like to buy...Ég ætla að kaupa...
  [yeh AYT-la ath KOW-pa]
• I'm just lookingÉg er bara að skoða
  [yeh air BAH-ra ath SKOH-tha]
• How much is it?Hvað kostar það?
  [kvath KOS-tar thah]
• That's too expensiveÞað er of dýrt
  [thath air ohv DEERT]
• Can you lower the price?Geturðu lækkað verðið?
  [GEH-tur-thoo LAY-kath VER-thith]

• What time is it?Hvað er klukkan?
  [kvath air KLOO-kahn]
• It's one o'clockKlukkan er eitt
  [KLOO-kahn air ayht]
• Half past (10)Hálftíu (10)
  [HOWLFT-yoo (10)]
• MorningMorgunn
  [MAWR-gun]
• AfternoonSíðdegis
  [SEETH-de-yis]
• EveningKvöld
  [kvulth]
• YesterdayÍ gær
  [EE gire]
• TodayÍ dag
  [EE dahk]
• TomorrowÁ morgun
  [ow MAWR-gun]
• 1Eitt
  [ayht]
• 2Tvö
  [tvuh]
• 3Þrjú
  [thri-yoo]
• 4Fjögur
  [FYOH-gur]
• 5Fimm
  [feem]
• 6Sex
  [sehx]
• 7Sjö
  [syoh]
• 8Átta
  [ow-tha]
• 9Níu
  [NEE-yoo]
• 10Tíu
  [tee-yoo]

• Where's a/the...?Hvar er...?
  [kvar air]
• What's the address?Hvað er heimilisfangið?
  [kvath air HAY-mi-lis-fang-ith]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Geturðu sýnt mér (á kortinu)?
  [GEH-tur-thoo seent mair (ow KOR-ti-nu)]
• When's the next (bus)?Hvenær kemur næsta (strætisvagn)?
  [KVEN-ayr KEH-mur NIE-sta (stray-tis-vahk-n)]
• A ticket (to ....)Einn miði (til ...)
  [ayht MEETH-i (til)]

Keflavik, located on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland, has roots that trace back to the early Viking Age. The name 'Keflavik' translates to 'Driftwood Bay,' a nod to the driftwood that would wash up on its shores, providing essential resources for the early settlers. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was used seasonally by Viking seafarers, who found the natural harbor a strategic advantage.

The 16th and 17th centuries marked a significant period for Keflavik as it transformed into a bustling fishing hub. The rich fishing grounds off Iceland's coast attracted both local fishermen and foreign traders, particularly from England and the Hanseatic League. This period saw the growth of small fishing villages and an increase in trade, laying the foundation for Keflavik's economic development.

From the late 17th century until the early 19th century, Iceland was under Danish rule, and Keflavik, like other Icelandic towns, was subject to the Danish trade monopoly. This meant that all trade was controlled by Danish merchants, which significantly impacted the local economy. Despite these restrictions, Keflavik continued to grow, with its fishing industry remaining a vital source of livelihood for its residents.

World War II marked a turning point for Keflavik with the arrival of the United States military in 1941. The establishment of the Keflavik Air Base brought significant changes, including the construction of the Keflavik International Airport. The presence of the military base not only boosted the local economy but also introduced new cultural influences and technologies, accelerating Keflavik's modernization.

Following World War II, the Keflavik Air Base remained a crucial NATO installation during the Cold War. The base continued to influence the town's development through the second half of the 20th century, bringing economic stability and fostering international connections. Keflavik's infrastructure improved, and the town expanded, increasingly integrating with the broader Icelandic economy and culture.

In 2006, the U.S. military officially closed the Keflavik Air Base, marking the end of an era. This withdrawal presented both challenges and opportunities for the town. The local government quickly moved to repurpose the base's facilities, transforming them into the Asbru Enterprise Park, a hub for business and innovation. This transition helped mitigate the economic impact and paved the way for new growth sectors.

Today, Keflavik is best known for being home to Iceland's largest international airport, serving as the primary gateway for tourists visiting the country. The town has embraced its role in tourism, offering a range of services and attractions that highlight Icelandic culture and natural beauty. Keflavik's history is celebrated through its museums, such as the Viking World Museum and the Icelandic Museum of Rock 'n' Roll, which showcase the town's rich heritage and vibrant cultural scene.

Keflavik is home to Iceland's main international airport, Keflavik International Airport (KEF). It is located about 50 kilometers southwest of Reykjavik, the capital city. Direct flights to Keflavik are available from various major cities across Europe, North America, and other regions. Upon arrival, you can use airport shuttle buses, taxis, or car rentals to reach your destination in Keflavik or Reykjavik.

Keflavik is a compact town, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are readily available. The Strætó bus network connects Keflavik with Reykjavik and other parts of Iceland. Renting a car is also a popular option, providing the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Bicycles can be rented for a more eco-friendly and immersive experience.

The official currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Keflavik, including in shops, restaurants, and hotels. ATMs are available throughout the town for cash withdrawals. It is advisable to carry some cash for use in smaller establishments and rural areas where card payments may not be accepted.

Keflavik is generally a safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure, avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and remain aware of your surroundings. There are no specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Keflavik has a local police station and medical facilities. It is important to carry travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the town for over-the-counter medications and minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress in layers and be prepared for varying weather conditions. Waterproof and windproof clothing is recommended. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Although Iceland is predominantly secular, some churches are still in use, and it is respectful to remain quiet and dress modestly when visiting. Public Transport: Do be courteous to bus drivers and fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Always check schedules in advance, as bus services may be less frequent in rural areas. Greetings: Do greet people with a simple 'Hello' or 'Góðan daginn' (Good day). Icelanders appreciate friendliness but value personal space. Eating & Drinking: Do try traditional Icelandic food, such as lamb, seafood, and skyr. Don't refuse hospitality, as it can be considered impolite. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for exceptional service.

To experience Keflavik like a local, visit the local fish market to sample fresh seafood or try a hot dog from a local stand—an Icelandic favorite. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Viking World Museum or taking a walk along the scenic coastal paths. For a unique experience, consider visiting the nearby Blue Lagoon for a relaxing geothermal spa experience.