Weather Apps

Iceland’s weather can be unpredictable, with conditions changing rapidly. Having a reliable weather app can help you plan your day and your outdoor adventures safely.

Vedur: This is the official app of the Icelandic Meteorological Office. It provides detailed weather forecasts across different regions of Iceland. It’s particularly useful for receiving alerts about upcoming storms or severe weather conditions.

Belgingur: A local favorite, Belgingur offers more localized weather forecasts. The app is praised for its accuracy and user-friendly interface, making it easier for expats to understand the weather patterns.

Navigation and Travel Apps

Getting around Iceland can be daunting due to its vast landscapes and sometimes sparse population density. These apps ensure that you don’t lose your way and help you discover the country’s hidden gems.

Google Maps: An essential app in almost any country, Google Maps is particularly useful in Iceland for finding the best routes and estimating travel times. It covers everything from walking paths to public transportation.

Waze: Popular for its community-driven updates, Waze is ideal for real-time traffic information. It helps in avoiding traffic snarls and road closures, which are common due to Iceland’s variable weather.

Strætó: For those relying on public transportation, Strætó is the official app for Iceland’s bus system. It provides schedules, route maps, and real-time location tracking of buses, making public transport more accessible for expats.

Language Learning Apps

Icelandic can be a challenging language to learn, but mastering it can significantly enhance your experience and integration into the local community.

Drops: Learn Icelandic: Drops makes language learning fun and engaging with quick, visual lessons that are easy to fit into your day. It focuses on vocabulary, which is a great starting point for beginners.

Mango Languages: Mango offers Icelandic courses that are practical and cultural. Lessons are focused on real-life conversations and the app also dives into the cultural nuances of the language, which is beneficial for expats.

Local News and Information Apps

Staying updated with local news is crucial for any expat. These apps will keep you informed about what’s happening around you, from cultural events to important announcements.

RÚV: RÚV is the national broadcasting service of Iceland and its app provides news in English, making it accessible for expats. It’s a reliable source for all types of news, including politics, culture, and weather updates.

Iceland Monitor: An English language news site that offers comprehensive coverage of Icelandic news. The app is updated frequently and covers a wide range of topics that are relevant to both locals and expats.

Shopping and Services Apps

Whether you need groceries or you’re looking for a restaurant, these apps make shopping and finding services easier.

Krónan: Krónan is one of Iceland’s leading supermarket chains. Their app provides the convenience of browsing products, checking prices, and even ordering groceries online.

Bónus: Another popular grocery store chain in Iceland, Bónus offers an app that helps you find the nearest store and view current promotions, helping expats manage their grocery shopping efficiently.

Aha: Aha is an essential app for food delivery and more. It not only lets you order from a wide range of restaurants but also provides delivery services for other items like groceries and electronics.

Healthcare and Emergency Apps

Accessing healthcare services and knowing what to do in an emergency is crucial for expats living in a new country.

Heilsuvera: Heilsuvera is an e-health portal where you can book appointments with doctors, renew prescriptions, and even have online consultations. It’s particularly useful for expats in remote areas of Iceland.

112 Iceland: The official emergency app of Iceland. It allows you to send an SMS to the emergency services with your exact location. This feature is incredibly valuable during outdoor adventures or in case of any emergency.

Conclusion

While moving to Iceland offers an exciting opportunity to experience its unique culture and breathtaking landscapes, it also requires preparation. These apps provide a solid foundation for understanding and navigating the country, ensuring that your time as an expat in Iceland is as enjoyable and safe as possible. As technology evolves, so do the resources available to expats, making it easier to adapt and thrive in new environments.