Our Hotels
Keahotels is one of the largest hotel chains in Iceland operating ten hotels. Together the hotels provide over 800 rooms and service travelers, local and foreign, all year round.
Reykjavík — Capital
Vík — South Iceland
Akureyri — North Iceland
Siglufjörður — North Iceland
Grímsnes — South Iceland
10 Icelandic words and Phrases You’ll Want to Know before Your Iceland Adventure
Welcome to Iceland – the land of stunning glaciers, active volcanoes, and charmingly unique slang! Icelanders have some fun ways of saying things, and a little local lingo can make exploring even more exciting. Here’s a quick guide to some Icelandic slang and handy phrases that will help you feel right at home, make the locals smile, and navigate the land of fire and ice like a pro!
The basics
“Já” (Yeah) and “Nei” (No)
Let’s start with the basics! "Já" (pronounced “yow”) is a casual way of saying “yes,” while “nei” (pronounced “nay”) means “no.” You’ll hear these words a lot as Icelanders are known for their direct communication style. Simple, right? Now you can nod along confidently during any Icelandic conversation.
“Takk” – Thanks!
“Takk” is short and sweet, meaning “thanks!” Want to be extra polite? Try “Takk fyrir,” which means “thank you very much.” It’s pronounced as it looks: “tahk fe-reer.” Locals will appreciate the effort!
“Sjáumst!” – See you later!
Wrapping up your Icelandic experience? Say “Sjáumst” (pronounced “s-yowmst”), meaning “See you later!” It’s casual and friendly and leaves the door open for another meeting – perfect for the end of an epic day.
“Skál!” – Cheers!
Ready to toast to new adventures? “Skál” (pronounced “scowl”) is the Icelandic way of saying “Cheers!” You’ll hear it in bars, restaurants, and pretty much anywhere people are enjoying a drink together. Just lift your glass and say it proudly.
Useful phrases
“Það reddast” – “It’ll work itself out”
Icelanders are famous for their laid-back “Það reddast” attitude, which basically means, “Don’t worry; it’ll work itself out!” It’s perfect for when plans change because of the weather or when things don’t go exactly as planned. Pronounce it like this: “thaw red-da-st,” and repeat it to yourself whenever you feel a bit lost!
“Hvað segir þú?” – “What’s up?”
Meeting new people in Iceland? Use this phrase as a friendly way to ask, “What’s up?” It’s pronounced “kvath say-yir thoo” – don’t worry, the locals will appreciate your effort! If they ask you, you can answer with “Allt gott” (everything’s good) or “Allt í lagi” (all good).
“Ég skil ekki” – “I don’t understand”
Lost in translation? No worries! “Ég skil ekki” (pronounced “yeh skeel eh-kee”) is a helpful way to say, “I don’t understand.” It’s especially useful when you’re navigating those long Icelandic words and need a little help!
“Hvað kostar þetta?” – “How much does this cost?”
Shopping in Reykjavik? Ask “Hvað kostar þetta?” (pronounced “kvath kos-tar thet-ta”) when you’re curious about the price of something. It’s a useful question that’ll make you feel like a savvy Icelandic shopper.
“Hvar er klósettið?” – “Where’s the bathroom?”
Always a useful phrase! Pronounce it “kvar err kloo-set-tith,” and you’ll be ready to find restrooms at cafes, bars, or popular tourist spots.
Jæja – The All-Purpose Icelandic Word
Welcome to the world of “Jæja” – one of Iceland’s most iconic words and perhaps the most versatile expression in the Icelandic language! “Jæja” (pronounced “yai-yah”) is more than just a word; it’s a feeling, a gesture, and a piece of Icelandic culture all rolled into one. Despite its simplicity, this little word packs a punch and can be used in a surprising number of ways. Let’s dive into the many faces of “Jæja” and explore how it can be your secret weapon for blending in with the locals!
What Does “Jæja” Mean?
Technically, “Jæja” doesn’t have a direct translation, and that’s what makes it so magical. It’s a catch-all word that Icelanders use to express everything from “Well…” and “Alright, then” to “Let’s go” and “So, what’s next?”
Think of “Jæja” as a signal word – it signals a pause, a new thought, or a transition. Depending on how you say it, “Jæja” can convey impatience, excitement, readiness, or simply a desire to get things moving.
