Iceland EDIA Resources

• Iceland does not have an intercity rail network; most local travel in Reykjavík is by bus (Strætó) and walking, and longer-distance travel is typically by coach. In the capital area (Reykjavík and surrounding municipalities), Strætóstates that all city buses have wheelchair access. Drivers can assist with deploying the ramp, but wheelchair users are expected to be able to board/alight independently and secure their wheelchair using the seat belt. Strætónotes there is typically space for one wheelchair per bus, and the wheelchair must be positioned with the back of the wheelchair facing the front of the bus. Strætó also reports initiatives to improve wayfinding and real-time access for blind and visually impaired riders, including NaviLens codes (at bus stops and on buses in the capital area and references to an audio system that announces upcoming stops. 
• Taxis are available in Reykjavík and can typically be arranged by phone or at taxi stands. If you require a vehicle that can accommodate a mobility aid, availability may be limited and advance booking is recommended. Uber and Lyft are not operating in Reykjavík. 
• Iceland’s built environment in central Reykjavík is generally navigable, but students should still anticipate uneven sidewalks, curb variations, and occasional slopes, especially outside the most central areas. Many popular natural sites visited on day trips (e.g., waterfalls, geothermal areas, coastal viewpoints) involve uneven ground, gravel paths, rocky surfaces, and wet/slippery conditions, which may be challenging for students with mobility-related access needs or those using mobility aids. 
• Late spring and early summer in Reykjavík are typically cool and changeable. In June, average daytime highs are commonly 11-13 degrees Celsius, with wind and rain possible. 
  • Preparation tips: pack light layers, a windproof/waterproof jacket, and closed-toe shoes with good grip for wet ground. Even in cooler weather, bring sun protection (sunscreen/sunglasses) due to long daylight hours. 
  • The Icelandic term “gluggaveður” [window weather] means weather that looks beautiful through the glass, but is deceptively cold and rough in reality. We are visiting Iceland in summer, but remember that it is still located on the edge of the Arctic Circle. Winds can be extremely strong and weather changes quickly, especially in rural areas. During our trips outside of Reykjavík you should bring strong mitts, a good toque/ wool hat, a windproof jacket that can block the wind and rain, a thick, warm under layer and durable, quality shoes like hiking boots. Check the forecast in May before you pack. For your time in the city, it is recommended that you pack layers, as well as clothing you would normally wear in spring or late winter in Toronto. For more, check out a comprehensive guide to packing and Icelandic travel here: @allthingsiceland (IG, Tiktok, YouTube.) If you would like to buy an Icelandic sweater during the trip ask your professor for advice on finding more reputable suppliers like the Icelandic Hand Knitting Association. 
• Residence details (including any accessibility features such as elevator access or step-free routes) can vary by building. Air conditioning may not be explicitly listed in provided details; students should plan for indoor temperatures that may rely on ventilation rather than AC and pack accordingly (layers are usually more helpful than “hot-weather” clothing in Iceland). 
  • We recommend that you buy plug adapters and or voltage converters to use in Iceland before leaving Canada as they can be difficult to find in stores in the city, especially in the evenings. To plug a device into the wall in Iceland you will need an adapter suitable for C and V type European-style outlets. Take care to read about differences in voltage in Iceland that may affect electronics designed to charge in Canada. The differences between the two can sometimes damage or destroy devices. 
• If you have specific accessibility and mobility needs that may not be supported by the hotel, you do have the option to stay in other suitable accommodations. These accommodations are paid for separately and may be more expensive than what the original accommodation would cost.  If you require a private accommodation for health reasons, you are required to research your own accommodations in the area that are in close proximity to CERN. Please note that Summer Abroad does not book private accommodations for students, and that students are also responsible for additional incurred fees (paid directly to the hotel or booking website). 
• We encourage you to reach out to the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator (summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca) about any mobility-related requirements or accommodations as soon as you receive your program admission. We strongly encourage you connect with the Summer Abroad office to discuss your needs before applying your Summer Abroad program. We will work closely with you to plan your experience abroad, taking into consideration your accessibility needs.  

Departing from Canada  

Sunflower Status  

Canada is a Sunflower-Recognized country. Which means, you can find individuals and organizations across various sectors who are trained to understand the meaning of the sunflower lanyard.  

Airports  

Canada has 27 airports that are sunflower recognized. 

 Students based at the University of Toronto are encouraged to visit Pearson Airport for departure. 72 hours before departure, students should visit the airports accessibility webpage and contact their mobility and accessibility customer service for more information regarding specific accessibility support.  

 Airlines  

 There are many airlines that depart or arrive in Canada.  

While we recommend Air Canada and West Jet, students are required to research the best airline for their situation. Summer Abroad has no official partnership with any airline.  

Arriving in Iceland

Sunflower Status  

Iceland is a Sunflower-Recognized country. Which means, you can find individuals and organizations across various sectors who are trained to understand the meaning of the sunflower lanyard.  

 Airports  

Students who are travelling to and from Iceland, will be able to find the following airports that offer accessibility supports: 

 Keflavik Airport 

 Students are encouraged to visit the airport accessibility webpage for more information on specific accessibility supports at least 72 hours before departure.  

 Airlines  

There are many airlines that depart or arrive in England. 

Students are required to research the best airline for their situation. Summer Abroad has no official partnership with any airline.  

Students are encouraged to check out our Sunflower Recognized Airlines Resources page for more information about the accessibility supports particular airlines offer and best tips.  

 For more information check out Hidden Disabilities Airports and Airlines Around the World. 

• Iceland has a strong publicly funded health system and a public-health orientation, and mental health support is available through formal health and community channels (including national and local services). However, access to counselling can still involve wait times depending on region and provider availability. Some local services note waiting lists for individual therapy, and referrals to specialist care can involve longer waits. Students with ongoing needs are encouraged to plan ahead, build flexibility for appointments, and identify support options before departure. 
• If you are in crisis or need urgent help, contact 112 (Iceland’s emergency number). For confidential emotional support, the Icelandic Red Cross lists 1717 as a support line (and notes 112 for emergencies). 
• If you require support for any mental health concerns, we encourage you to reach out to Summer Abroad so we can work directly with you to provide necessary accommodations and support during your program. All Summer Abroad students have access to International SOS, (U of T has partnered with International SOS to provide medical, security, emotional and logistical support and expertise for U of T’s international travelers). If you require a doctor or counsellor in Switzerland, iSOS can arrange English-language counselling and help you find a mental health professional in your area. However, please plan for delays: based on previous experience feedback, the iSOS intake form and assessment process can take time, and appointments commonly require 7 business days to secure, and availability can be limited.
  • If you anticipate persistent or ongoing health needs, speak with your family doctor, counsellor, or healthcare provider before traveling to develop a continuity-of-care plan.
  • If you require academic or disability related accommodations, register with U of T Accessibility Services in advance to ensure proper documentation and support are in place before departure.
  • Be flexible with appointment time slots and consider telehealth options to increase availability.
  • If you are unsure where to start, contact the Summer Abroad office at summerabroad.edi@utoronto.ca.
• If you are bringing medication with you into Switzerland, remember to check if your medication contains a controlled drug. You can check with the Embassy of Switzerland in Canada to make sure your medication is legal. You should always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, with your doctor’s prescription.
• Reminder: Students with pre-existing concerns must meet with their Accessibility Advisor to discuss needs and prepare relevant documentations before applying for Summer Abroad.  

• According to IGLTA’s Iceland LGBTQ+ travel guide, Iceland is widely regarded as an LGBTQ+ welcoming destination. The guide and Equaldex note that same-sex activity was decriminalized in 1940, same-sex partnerships became legal in 1996, and same-sex marriage became legal in 2010. It also notes that Iceland is at the forefront of trans rights, and does not require sex reassignment surgery for official name and gender recognition. As with many destination, laws and social attitudes can vary by setting and community, so students should remain mindful of context-specific norms and prioritize personal safety and comfort, particularly in new environments. 
• Summer Abroad is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all students, and support students of all sexual orientations and gender identities. If you have any concerns or require support regarding your 2SLGBTQ+ accommodations, please do not hesitate to reach out to us, so we can assist you in finding additional resources as well as explore your accommodation options.  You may also contact the U of T Sexual & Gender Diversity Office via sgdo@utoronto.ca or by phone at (416)946-5624. 

• The Government of Canada’s Iceland Travel Advice notes that while Iceland is generally safe, incidents of violence have occurred in downtown Reykjavík, particularly in and around nightlife venues (bars/clubs). For women travellers, this is most relevant when going out in the evening or returning to accommodations. Consider practical precautions such as staying with a group, planning your route home in advance, using reputable transportation options at night, and keeping an eye on beverages and personal belongings in crowded venues. 
• Iceland’s national health portal (Heilsuvera) notes that emergency contraception is available in pharmacies without a prescription and is most effective the sooner it is taken. Students can ask directly at a local pharmacy counter and, if needed, use a pharmacy directory (e.g., Lyfja’s list of locations) to find the closest option. 
• If you experience sexual harassment or feel uncomfortable while you are abroad, you can reach out to Summer Abroad and Safety Abroad for help, and they will help connect you with U of T resources including the Sexual Violence Prevention & Support Centre. For more information on how Safety Abroad can support you in a crisis, please click here to view Safety Abroad’s resources (under “sexual harassment & violence” and “in a crisis.”) 

• Iceland is a small country with rapidly diversifying population in recent years. Statistics Iceland reports that foreign citizens accounted for 17.3% of the total population at the end of Q3 2024. Because Iceland’s overall population is small and many communities outside the capital area are relatively tight-knit, some students who are visibly “different” may notice more curiosity (e.g., staring or unsolicited questions) than they might experience in larger, more diverse cities. This is not necessarily hostile, but it can feel uncomfortable. Larger urban areas (especially the capital region) tend to be more internationally oriented and may feel more familiar for racialized travellers, while smaller towns may have fewer cultural touchpoints and less day-to-day diversity. 
• If you feel unsafe or experience racism during your time in the Summer Abroad program, we encourage you to report the incident immediately to the Summer Abroad office or reach out to the On-Site Coordinators, who will contact U of T Safety Abroad to provide immediate support, including connecting you with U of T Resources such as the Anti-Racism and Cultural Diversity Office (ARCDO). 

• Iceland is often described as a country with strong protection for freedom of religion, and Christianity (historically Lutheran) remains influential in the religious landscape. Recent membership statistics show that the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Iceland is still the largest faith community, alongside a growing share of residents who are unaffiliated or belong to other registered religious/life-stance organizations. 
• Access to worship: 
  • Christianity: Churches are widely available, including in Reykjavík and smaller communities. However, service language is typically Icelandic, so students seeking English-language services may need to contact congregations in advance. 
  • Islam: Iceland’s Muslim community is relatively small, and worship options are more limited outside Reykjavík. Students may need to plan ahead and confirm prayer times and service details. Students can visit the Islamic Cultural Centre of Iceland for service information and community contacts. 
  • Judaism: Jewish infrastructure is limited and services may be occasional rather than regularly scheduled. Students observing Judaism should plan ahead, and may wish to connect with the local community/organizations in advance for up-to-date information about services and supports. 
• If you are looking for religious accommodation support during your Summer Abroad program, such as religious observations that may conflict with academic activities and field trips, please contact the Summer Abroad Diversity & Inclusion Program Coordinator in advance. Summer Abroad will work closely with you to ensure that your religious observance needs are accommodated to the best of our ability, creating an inclusive environment that respects and values your faith while planning and participating your Summer Abroad experience.  

• Halal options in Reykjavík may be limited compared to larger cities. A practical starting point is Tripadvisor’s “Halal Restaurants in Reykjavík” list (students should still confirm halal status and cross-contamination practices directly with the restaurant). 
• Kosher options can be limited, so students who keep kosher are encouraged to plan ahead. The Jewish Community of Iceland (Chabad of Iceland) provides: (1) a Kosher list of products and (2) information on kosher meal options (by contacting them in advance). 
• Vegetarian and vegan options are generally easier to find in Reykjavík. Students can use HappyCow (Reykjavík) to identify vegetarian/vegan-friendly restaurants and check user-updated hours and locations. 
• The Student Hostel notes that there is a shared kitchen on each floor, which can support self-catering for students with specific dietary needs. 
• Almost all Icelanders also speak English, however, you will be acquiring some basic Icelandic language skills as part of our course. The water in Iceland is exceptionally clean and safe to drink out of the tap, but please note that Iceland relies on geothermal heat and so the hot water that may come from the tap in showers can be much hotter than usual Canadian standards. 
• Iceland has wonderful food, but be aware that food selection and prices are often different in northern cities, due to high shipping costs. As a modern city, food providers in Reykjavík are generally familiar with dietary preferences and allergies, but may not always offer options. Pack back up snacks and be vigilant if you have a serious allergy, particularly to fish or seafood, as these are commonly present in many restaurants. Your professor can also provide additional information about budget-friendly options, including the University of Iceland’s popular campus cafeteria, Háma, and quality nearby grocery stores.