I’m planning to travel to Iceland in the next couple of weeks, as the country is responsibly opening up to tourism. Iceland has handled the pandemic exceptionally well, and will be doing COVID-19 testing on arrival for all passengers. Add in the focus on the outdoors and the opportunities for social distancing, and I think it’s the perfect place to travel this summer.
Now I’m wondering if I can combine this with another destination that has been on my bucket list…
In this post:
I’ve long wanted to visit the Faroe Islands
The Faroe Islands has been on my list for a long time — I first wrote about my desire to travel there a few years ago. Ford and I love nature destinations, and arguably there has never been a better time to focus on them, given how easy it is to social distance when you’re outdoors. On top of that, the Faroe Islands hasn’t had any COVID-19 cases in over a month, and hasn’t had any COVID-19 related deaths.
For those of you not familiar with the Faroe Islands, it’s a set of 18 islands in the North Atlantic, between Iceland and Norway (northwest of Scotland). The Faroe Islands is a self-governing territory of Denmark.
Historically the Faroe Islands hasn’t been as popular as Iceland, but it’s an increasingly visited tourist destination. I imagine this summer would be a great time to visit (if it can be done responsibly), given that it has been closed off to tourists for so long.
Will we be allowed to visit, though?
I was really excited when I saw a press release a few days ago about how the Faroe Islands will welcome visitors as of June 15. The thing I can’t figure out with certainty is who can actually visit this summer.
As reported by Guide to Faroe Islands, in the past few days it has been announced that the Faroe Islands would be opening to visitors from Denmark and Iceland as of June 15, 2020.
What I haven’t been able to figure out is exactly who they’re welcoming from these countries:
- Is the Faroe Islands only welcoming visitors who are residents of these countries?
- Or is the limitation coming in the form of the flights that will operate to the Faroe Islands, since there will exclusively be flights from other places in Denmark and Iceland? I’ve also seen one source indicate that they will welcome visitors from Denmark and Iceland, and anyone who can travel freely.
- Atlantic Airways (the airline of the Faroe Islands) is restarting Iceland flights as of June 15.
- Given that Iceland is testing all arriving passengers, logically one would think they’d allow in anyone coming from there, rather than just welcoming Icelandic nationals; I also get that’s often not how this stuff works.
It’s only a 500 mile flight from Keflavik to Vagar, so that sure would be convenient…
Bottom line
I’m intrigued by the prospect of visiting the Faroe Islands in conjunction with a trip to Iceland. Atlantic Airways is resuming flights between Iceland and the Faroe Islands as of June 15. What I can’t figure out is whether the Faroe Islands’ restriction on Iceland visitors means that only Icelandic nationals can visit, or if anyone coming from Iceland can visit, given that everyone in the country is being tested.
I’ve tried reaching out to the airline and tourism board and haven’t been able to get an answer. This may be one of those cases where the rules are still being finalized, as is the case all over the place.
While Iceland is definitely in the cards for me, it sure would be cool to combine that with the Faroe Islands as well.
Anyone else considering a visit to the Faroe Islands? Or anyone have a better understanding of what the actual policy is for the Faroe Islands when it comes to visitors from Iceland?
(Featured image courtesy of Waka77)
I received the following official information from Atlantic Airways today:
The Faroese authorities have announced, that from 15th of June 2020 residents from Denmark, Iceland, Greenland, Norway and Germany can travel to the Faroe Islands without 14-days-quarantine if they adhere to the below guidelines:
Residents of Denmark, Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Germany need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test that has been taken within the last five days before traveling to the Faroe...
I received the following official information from Atlantic Airways today:
The Faroese authorities have announced, that from 15th of June 2020 residents from Denmark, Iceland, Greenland, Norway and Germany can travel to the Faroe Islands without 14-days-quarantine if they adhere to the below guidelines:
Residents of Denmark, Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Germany need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 test that has been taken within the last five days before traveling to the Faroe Islands.
Atlantic Airways guidelines:
All passengers must wear a face mask at the airports and onboard the flights at all time
There will be no service onboard the flights
Show a negative Covid19 test upon check-in or at gate
From the 15th of June Atlantic Airways will have twice daily flights to/From CPH and will also have flights 2-4 weekly flights to/from BLL, AAL and KEF.
Due to the local authorities recommand no travel to/from other countries than the above mentioned until 31st of August 2020, Atlantic Airways will not fly to/from CDG, BCN, PMI, LGW, EDI in this period.
Faroe Islands Authority guidelines:
Residents of Denmark, Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Germany should present proof of a negative COVID-19 test that has been taken within the last five days.
A Covid19 testing is not required for children younger than 12 years old.
It is of utmost importance that all travellers to the Faroe Islands take appropriate precautions while travelling. Upon arrival, particular care must be taken and the public health guidelines closely followed.
Visitors from countries other than Denmark, Greenland, Iceland, Norway and Germany are still strongly advised to self-quarantine for 14 days.
You can see the guidelines from the Faroese Authorities for travel to the Faroe Islands here also regarding which tests are approved: www.corona.fo/?_l=en
Which tests are reliable?
When departing for the Faroe Islands passengers must be able to document that they have been tested negative for Covid-19 from a local governmentally approved test center.
The test must not be older than 5 days (120 hours)
Tests from local health authorities in Denmark, Greenland and Iceland are approved. Approval relating tests from German and Norweigan health authorities, as well as a test from private providers, is still pending. Information will be updated once available.
What about nationalities not residing in one of the five aforementioned countries?
Passengers not residing in Denmark, Norway, Iceland, Greenland or Germany are not allowed entry to the Faroe Islands.
I think travel can happen if people are responsible, and it's such an important part of our lives, this is why we are considering it (with precautions) despite the pandemic. I work in healthcare and have been seeing and diagnosing COVID patients since mid March. I have worn my N95 for 12 hours a day while at work, nonstop, since mid March. I have not seen anyone other than my husband, and have not shopped...
I think travel can happen if people are responsible, and it's such an important part of our lives, this is why we are considering it (with precautions) despite the pandemic. I work in healthcare and have been seeing and diagnosing COVID patients since mid March. I have worn my N95 for 12 hours a day while at work, nonstop, since mid March. I have not seen anyone other than my husband, and have not shopped at stores, just had delivery. When at work I'm always 6 feet apart from colleagues. When with patients I'm only within 6 feet of them (for their exam) for 2 minutes, and patients are required to have a mask on a all time, and I wear my N95. In all the patients I've diagnosed, all but two could be traced back to another known positive (usually family member). If someone has been isolating and taking precautions and not seeing anyone else, they are extremely low risk of spreading the virus, and then travel is not irresponsible, especially if they keep to themselves when traveling. We are hoping to travel to Iceland on 7/1, like Ben. I was going to have us tested in my clinic in Boston prior to departure, but it looks like they won't accept this any longer, but the fee in ISK will actually be cheaper than paying out of pocket as an asymptomatic person in my clinic (we charge $160 to cover the cost of supplies). We've booked all our lodging for Iceland but not the flight since it is unsure if they will let Americans in. If they don't, we might go to Portugal instead. While there are great places in the U.S. to see, I wouldn't feel as comfortable traveling domestically (except Alaska, but they're requiring testing now too), as Americans haven't been consistently following precautions versus Europeans, and a lot of states (Texas, Arizona, Georgia, Florida) have uncontrolled spread at the present time.
Go, enjoy yourself, you have done your time, don’t worry about tests as it is no more than a snapshot of the exact time it was done and you could contract the virus before you even get the results. Be free!
SAS will be resuming service to the Faroe Islands as of June 15.
https://www.sasgroup.net/newsroom/press-releases/2020/where-sas-will-fly-in-june/
One of great benefits of travelling to northern Europe is that they are very averse towards face masks. SAS, being a major airline catering to customers from all around Europe was pressured to require them on board, but Icelandair and Atlantic Airways remain one of few European airlines that allow you to fly mask-free.
For me, masks pose the main reason why I won't travel to Iceland this summer (Icelandair unfortunatelly doesn't fly anywhere...
One of great benefits of travelling to northern Europe is that they are very averse towards face masks. SAS, being a major airline catering to customers from all around Europe was pressured to require them on board, but Icelandair and Atlantic Airways remain one of few European airlines that allow you to fly mask-free.
For me, masks pose the main reason why I won't travel to Iceland this summer (Icelandair unfortunatelly doesn't fly anywhere near me), otherwise I would totally go there for the summer solstice. I had a great trip last year, but it seems I'll have to stick to my driving distance this year (which is not a bad thing, I found some great places near my hometown).
"my understanding is that the EU/Schengen Area’s ban on non-essential travel to the EU by non-EU citizens will now be extended through the end of June. Iceland is not a member of the EU, but it is a Schengen Area member, so it would be expected to uphold the travel restrictions"
This is not how it works. Schengen Agreement doesn't have any provision on coordinated closure of external borders. Comission simply can't close the border...
"my understanding is that the EU/Schengen Area’s ban on non-essential travel to the EU by non-EU citizens will now be extended through the end of June. Iceland is not a member of the EU, but it is a Schengen Area member, so it would be expected to uphold the travel restrictions"
This is not how it works. Schengen Agreement doesn't have any provision on coordinated closure of external borders. Comission simply can't close the border even if they wanted to. The closure that occured in last three months was based on Comission's recommendation, which all member states chose to follow (after all, the recommendation came after this was discussed and widely supported in the Council). However, if any member state (or other Schengen Area member) choses to ignore the recommendation, they can do so. With several EU states already announcing they plan to open to certain non-EU nationals, I believe that ban will not be extended on EU-wide level, although some states may opt to continue applying it.
The only thing that could change that would be if there was realistic posibility of completely opening internal borders if everyone agrees to common approach on external border. But for the time being, that seems unlikely and we will have some internal border restrictions for quite some time, so individual states may as well opt to make their own rules at the external border (there is no benefit in keeping the coordinated approach, if internal borders still have controls in place).
NO US visitors
They’d be crazy to open up their island to anyone from the USA at this time ( as they have stated ) - it would be devastating if there was an outbreak
@Dick, I was referring to Iceland, not the Faroe Islands.
Dick, face it: if you're a dual citizen, you have more privileges. When Trump imposed travel bans, U.S. citizens could return from the EU and China, but non-U.S. citizens could not return. Similarly, when the EU imposed a travel ban, EU citizens could return from the U.S. to their EU member states -- although some imposed quarantines upon return -- but U.S. citizens obviously...
@Dick, I was referring to Iceland, not the Faroe Islands.
Dick, face it: if you're a dual citizen, you have more privileges. When Trump imposed travel bans, U.S. citizens could return from the EU and China, but non-U.S. citizens could not return. Similarly, when the EU imposed a travel ban, EU citizens could return from the U.S. to their EU member states -- although some imposed quarantines upon return -- but U.S. citizens obviously could not.
The U.S. epidemic has been managed about as well as Italy, Spain, France, Sweden, and the UK when you look at the actual number of cases and deaths -- maybe even a little bit better than those countries.
Viruses don't care about politics.
@ James - Wrong. It doesn't matter what passport he waves. He is a US resident - and, most importantly - he has been in the US recently. The passport that he shows is immaterial. He is coming from the US (has been there recently), and that will be the basis used to deny him entry to the Faroe Islands. He might be able to enter Iceland (not really sure about that), but just being...
@ James - Wrong. It doesn't matter what passport he waves. He is a US resident - and, most importantly - he has been in the US recently. The passport that he shows is immaterial. He is coming from the US (has been there recently), and that will be the basis used to deny him entry to the Faroe Islands. He might be able to enter Iceland (not really sure about that), but just being in Iceland, and holding a passport from an EU or Schengen country, does NOT qualify a US resident who has been living in the US, to enter the Faroe Islands. He can try, but it's not going to work, and when he is turned away, it's going to be more than a little inconvenient. Assuming he makes it to Iceland, the most likely scenario is that he would be denied boarding on the flight to Vagar upon checkin at Keflavik (rather than arriving in Vagar and being told he can't enter). The Faroes are not desperate for tourists and they are not chomping at the bit to let everyone in.
Guys, face it: If you live in the US, very few places around the world are going to let you in at all, and that's not about to change anytime soon. Even fewer places are going to "welcome" you - which Lucky claims is one of his primary criteria. Like the UK, Brazil, Russia, and other countries run by despots/denialists who completely mismanaged their response to the virus, those of us who live in the US are all going to be persona non grata in much of the world until we've got the pandemic under control at home (which ain't gonna be anytime soon). The countries who paid high prices and made it through the necessary but harsh measures do not want to go back into lockdowns because some yahoos from the Ozarks want to bring their pool party to their summer vacation spot.
@Emma, my understanding is that the EU/Schengen Area's ban on non-essential travel to the EU by non-EU citizens will now be extended through the end of June. Iceland is not a member of the EU, but it is a Schengen Area member, so it would be expected to uphold the travel restrictions, since non-EU citizens could simply visit Iceland and continue to another European country on a "domestic flight." I suspect Iceland will welcome EU/EFTA/EEA...
@Emma, my understanding is that the EU/Schengen Area's ban on non-essential travel to the EU by non-EU citizens will now be extended through the end of June. Iceland is not a member of the EU, but it is a Schengen Area member, so it would be expected to uphold the travel restrictions, since non-EU citizens could simply visit Iceland and continue to another European country on a "domestic flight." I suspect Iceland will welcome EU/EFTA/EEA (i.e. European Single Market) tourists from June 15th, but American passport holders will have to wait.
Lucky should be able to visit, if there is a flight and he wants to, because he could enter with his German passport and then take a test.
I am also wondering with @Mélina if US citizens will completely be allowed into Iceland passed the 15th? Is that for sure? Thank you!
There's a ferry from the east coast of Iceland that stops in the Faroes on the way to Denmark.
@Matt and @Stephen, please stop the travel shaming!
A few things:
1) For the vast majority of people, this is a mild virus with mild symptoms or no symptoms.
2) Traveling to a place with less virus than the U.S. and then returning to the U.S. is not irresponsible, if the traveler is healthy before departing and isolates if sickened during the trip. Is Lucky more likely to get the virus in Iceland and spread...
@Matt and @Stephen, please stop the travel shaming!
A few things:
1) For the vast majority of people, this is a mild virus with mild symptoms or no symptoms.
2) Traveling to a place with less virus than the U.S. and then returning to the U.S. is not irresponsible, if the traveler is healthy before departing and isolates if sickened during the trip. Is Lucky more likely to get the virus in Iceland and spread it in Miami? Or is he more likely to get the virus in Miami and spread it in Miami? Probably the latter, since Miami literally has more cases!
3) EU dual nationals -- and Lucky is one -- have the right to return to the EU and countries outside the EU in the Schengen Area. If we want to do that, we can, just like Americans had the right to return to the U.S. from China and Europe in February and March.
4) It's obvious the U.S. -- and many other countries -- are not capable of suppressing this virus like Korea and Taiwan. It will become endemic -- like the other coronaviruses responsible for the common cold -- and just another nasty respiratory virus, which unfortunately may kill some people who are particularly fragile at the time of infection. Even Dr. Fauci has said a vaccine may only provide protection for a short period of time, given the instability of coronaviruses.
5) We live in society and traveling/tourism is a major driver of economic growth for many states and countries. It is responsible for healthy people to participate in society -- including travel/tourism -- and help countries recover from the public health interventions of the past spring.
Dear Ben,
I love your Blog aswell and IMHO you should go and try travelling International again!
I still cancelled my trip to the Faroes-Iceland-and Greenland. Technially the Faroes isn't in the EU nor the Schengen treaty. The odds of them randomly adding restrictions is pretty high. (Since they're not obligated to follow what others say, maybe even Denmark) Tho this is what I personally predict so take it with a grain of salt.
But if you do fly over there and fly Atlantic Airways, make sure to order the open faced...
I still cancelled my trip to the Faroes-Iceland-and Greenland. Technially the Faroes isn't in the EU nor the Schengen treaty. The odds of them randomly adding restrictions is pretty high. (Since they're not obligated to follow what others say, maybe even Denmark) Tho this is what I personally predict so take it with a grain of salt.
But if you do fly over there and fly Atlantic Airways, make sure to order the open faced sandwich. There's caviar on top and I bet this would be the only airline to have caviar on board economy class. Other than that it is a really pleasant airline to fly.
The Faroe Islands as well as Iceland and Greenland all seem like cool destinations;
would be interested if these three lands have similarities to Newfoundland
Had to go there for work last year. Pre-coronavirus, Atlantic Airways flew twice weekly direct from Edinburgh. I was not popular with my friends! Their annual whale slaughter is an environmental disgrace. Wouldn’t go there unless I had to. Quite aside from that fact, I will give international air travel for leisure a miss till some time after late August at the earliest. See what pans out.
Lucky, please check out the yearly, senseless slaughter of Pilot Whales in the Faroes. Don't reward these cruel people with your dollars.
First, I love your blog Lucky. It is the best. However, I have to agree with many of the above. Stay home, spend your money/points in the U.S. supporting American jobs, and for once, stop wander lusting. Sometimes you sound like a spoiled child with way too much privilege. I have had the opportunity to travel the world several times over, and I cannot wait to get on a plane again. Yet I will only...
First, I love your blog Lucky. It is the best. However, I have to agree with many of the above. Stay home, spend your money/points in the U.S. supporting American jobs, and for once, stop wander lusting. Sometimes you sound like a spoiled child with way too much privilege. I have had the opportunity to travel the world several times over, and I cannot wait to get on a plane again. Yet I will only do so when it is in a responsible manner. I understand that "responsible" has different meanings to different people. So be it. My suggestion is only to be careful and considerate.
Lucky - I love your blog, but, if you are going to travel, maybe think about spending 14 days in quarantine on arrival to ensure you do not spread the virus.
Unfortunately, COVID tests are not the solution in this case. The testing is important for understanding how the virus is transmitted on a larger scale, not for individuals to claim free passes. This is because (as many have mentioned above) they are not...
Lucky - I love your blog, but, if you are going to travel, maybe think about spending 14 days in quarantine on arrival to ensure you do not spread the virus.
Unfortunately, COVID tests are not the solution in this case. The testing is important for understanding how the virus is transmitted on a larger scale, not for individuals to claim free passes. This is because (as many have mentioned above) they are not very good tests - in HK I had a friend who tested negative, then positive, then negative. They spent 2 weeks in quarantine in Fo Tan with no symptoms. Estimates are that current tests provide a false negative a third of the time (!).
We also still don't fully understand how the virus replicates, but currently it looks like it takes a few days for the virus to replicate in the nose and throat following infection, so if you are recently infected (i.e. on the plane/at the airport), the test might not show it for a couple of days.
I get that countries want to get their economies kick-started, and for many tourism is essential to that, but I can't see how Iceland are going to manage these risks, especially with tourists coming from areas of high infection (like the US). I really hope it doesn't cause a second wave of outbreaks (I went to Iceland for my 30th, and can't speak highly enough of what a wonderful place it is).
I really would only travel it is essential, as per the guidance in your own country (from the CDC).
You need your head examined if you think you’re going to be traveling overseas this summer. Just because you can does not mean you should. Even with domestic travel I would be really picky about where you go.
Just stay home. The more people who do the quicker we’ll be done with this and back to normal life.
@Mitch Cumstein: Enjoy your cave. Let other live their lives. We will let you know when a vaccine is ready so you can leave.
I am in process of unwinding my Faroe Islands trip, departing July 8.
How are you going to get past Denmark’s quarantine regulations?
Delta canceled my flight over to Amsterdam SFO-SEA-AMS on the new A330-900neo; KLM canceled my flight AMS-CPH-FAE; BA canceled my flight KEF-LHR; and VS is not operating my return LHR-LAX on the new A350-1000 on July 17.
In process requesting refunds from Hotel Hafnia and Hotel Brandan in Torshavn....
I am in process of unwinding my Faroe Islands trip, departing July 8.
How are you going to get past Denmark’s quarantine regulations?
Delta canceled my flight over to Amsterdam SFO-SEA-AMS on the new A330-900neo; KLM canceled my flight AMS-CPH-FAE; BA canceled my flight KEF-LHR; and VS is not operating my return LHR-LAX on the new A350-1000 on July 17.
In process requesting refunds from Hotel Hafnia and Hotel Brandan in Torshavn. Canceling Koks restaurant reservation. Fun week!
I agree- don’t travel internationally. Stay patient and don’t rationalize that going to Iceland is safe because they check you there. Cancel plans and join the cancelled club of travelers. I am sure we can all jump back into planes again soon.
I have trip to Iceland booked for mid July, so will be waiting for you report about situation there. Hopefully you can brig us a lot of details of this covid arrival procedure and how it is in there in touristic sense.
Isn't Florida having record breaking numbers of new covid cases? Seems like the last thing they would want is people from florida.
Why are you trying to get to places Americans riddled with the virus aren’t wanted.
@Lucky,
I am also a dual citizen contemplating travel to Europe. In a European newspaper, I read that the ban on non-essential travel to the EU will remain until July 1st. While I believe you and I could still visit some countries -- including our own member states -- with quarantine upon arrival, I think your planned June 15th trip to Iceland may be questionable. You should confirm that a German national arriving from the...
@Lucky,
I am also a dual citizen contemplating travel to Europe. In a European newspaper, I read that the ban on non-essential travel to the EU will remain until July 1st. While I believe you and I could still visit some countries -- including our own member states -- with quarantine upon arrival, I think your planned June 15th trip to Iceland may be questionable. You should confirm that a German national arriving from the United States is eligible to visit Iceland -- test or no test -- as of June 15th. I suspect you would be eligible, since the test should make up for being in the U.S., but better safe than sorry.
I was planning to try to fly to France -- as an EU citizen -- in late June, but now I think that won't be possible until July. Even my own member state would require me to quarantine for 14 days upon arrival -- and, as I don't speak the language of my member state, I don't want to risk a complicated situation where I don't understand the quarantine rules.
Oh, come on. You continue to be in deep, deep denial, about many things.
1. Americans are not going to be welcomed to the Faroes anytime soon. If you think you will be just because you reached Iceland, you are delusional.
2. I visited the Faroes for 10 days last summer, at the peak, optimal, midsummer time. We got one clear sunny day (our first day there). One day. After that, it was some combination...
Oh, come on. You continue to be in deep, deep denial, about many things.
1. Americans are not going to be welcomed to the Faroes anytime soon. If you think you will be just because you reached Iceland, you are delusional.
2. I visited the Faroes for 10 days last summer, at the peak, optimal, midsummer time. We got one clear sunny day (our first day there). One day. After that, it was some combination of foggy, rainy, cloudy, incredibly rainy, every day all day for the remainder of our time there (9 more days). Maybe we just got unlucky, but given the location and historic weather patterns, I think anyone who goes there needs to accept that they may experience a lot of wet, gray weather - possibly every day. If your trip is short, there's a good chance you will have rain the whole time. On those rainy days, if you are not willing to go for a long slog in relentless, driving rain, there is not a lot to do (we did go on several long hikes in hard rain, they were grueling...I hope you don't mind getting a lot of sheep poop all over your clothes...). The accommodations are not exactly what you are used to for amenities (we found one restaurant that was good, otherwise the food was not enjoyable), so think carefully about how you might spend day after day in what boils down to a rustic youth hostel.
3. I still think it's incredibly selfish and irresponsible for Americans to travel internationally this summer. Don't be a super-spreader.
4. Your justifications for NOT doing domestic travel are nonsense - disingenuous excuses, and you know it. The drive is not difficult - in fact, "the Great American Road Trip" is a wonderful experience, an adventure in and of itself. You would learn a lot. I dare say it would actually be good for you to get out of your pampered bubble. There's wonderful things to see. And it would be a heckuva lot safer for you than spending hours in airports and on flights - the most dangerous conditions of all (think Qatar...).
Shame on you if you do attempt this trip.
I've been looking at this, too, and the Visit Faroe Islands website has this:
"Visitors from Denmark, Greenland, Norway, Germany and Iceland will be able to travel to the Faroe Islands from 15 June without the need to self-quarantine. Additionally, there will be no mimimum requirements for number of overnights."
There is additional wording that suggests if you can get there then you'd be welcomed in the Faroe Islands.
https://visitfaroeislands.com/about/faroe-islands-reopen-visitors-from-15-june/
I've been looking at this, too, and the Visit Faroe Islands website has this:
"Visitors from Denmark, Greenland, Norway, Germany and Iceland will be able to travel to the Faroe Islands from 15 June without the need to self-quarantine. Additionally, there will be no mimimum requirements for number of overnights."
There is additional wording that suggests if you can get there then you'd be welcomed in the Faroe Islands.
https://visitfaroeislands.com/about/faroe-islands-reopen-visitors-from-15-june/
@Lucky, your post from June 5, 2020 at 9:12 am is very "I" based. But what about Iceland? Is it responsible tourism to travel there? Rather than look at, can I travel there and do I want to travel there, please write a piece (or ask a guest to write on) on whether you should travel there.
@ nate nate -- I addressed that in great detail in this post:
https://onemileatatime.com/considering-traveling/
I absolutely agree it's important to consider other people in all of this too...
I would suggest you take a virtual visit to the Faroe Islands instead:
https://www.remote-tourism.com/
To practice proper social distancing you will not be able to get the benefit of being there and interacting with locals and guides, you might as well just walk around on a green hillside anywhere if that is the case. The best part about visiting a place is meeting the people and getting to know it.
OK, this is truly bizarre --
Persons who are to attend a folk high school programme in Denmark.
We sadly cancelled our trip there (scheduled for late June) this week as a result of the following:
1) SAS won't fly FAE-CPH till at least August 1, and that was supposed to be our route.
2) Denmark, and therefore FAE, is not open to US citizens right now unless you have a series of extenuating circumstances (work visa, wedding, a few others)
3) 14 day quarantine is still on the table,...
We sadly cancelled our trip there (scheduled for late June) this week as a result of the following:
1) SAS won't fly FAE-CPH till at least August 1, and that was supposed to be our route.
2) Denmark, and therefore FAE, is not open to US citizens right now unless you have a series of extenuating circumstances (work visa, wedding, a few others)
3) 14 day quarantine is still on the table, sort of like what the Maldives is considering (we cancelled that trip, too!)
Hopefully we can reschedule next year, as it's been on our bucket list for years. Whatever you decide to do, good luck!
Hi! I’m also looking to do a trip to Iceland this summer! I booked everything except my flight as I’m still unsure if everyone will be accepted in Iceland from June 15th or only people from the Schengen region. Are you sure that everyone (including Canadians and Americans) will be accepted in Iceland as of June 15th? Thanks a lot
@Ben the Danish police have a FAQ which has been recently updated ;
https://politi.dk/en/coronavirus-in-denmark/if-you-are-travelling-to-and-from-denmark
A five minute call to the consulate confirmed that no US citizens are getting in without:
1) Danish citizenship, or
2) A work visa, or
3) A danish child, or
4) A funeral or wedding to attend.
I will repeat again you are crazy to not test before you get on the plane. There is plenty of testing in FL that can be done for little or no cost whether you have or don't have insurance. Cost aside, why would you wait? If you show up in Iceland asymptotic, testing positive, your trip is ruined and it's not like you are getting back on a plane to go home. Perhaps a true...
I will repeat again you are crazy to not test before you get on the plane. There is plenty of testing in FL that can be done for little or no cost whether you have or don't have insurance. Cost aside, why would you wait? If you show up in Iceland asymptotic, testing positive, your trip is ruined and it's not like you are getting back on a plane to go home. Perhaps a true quarantine hotel trip report would be get some good page views but not sure its exactly what you are after.
Get the test in the states 1-2 days before you leave as you are allowed to do!
Please just stay home. You shouldn't be traveling unless you really need to and it's really not fun these days. I flew about 2 weeks ago and will fly again in about 2 weeks. Planes are pretty full...you have no idea if you're fellow travelers have been cautious before stepping on the plane. Almost all of the restaurants in the airports are closed. A lot of clubs are closed. I wouldn't be traveling if I...
Please just stay home. You shouldn't be traveling unless you really need to and it's really not fun these days. I flew about 2 weeks ago and will fly again in about 2 weeks. Planes are pretty full...you have no idea if you're fellow travelers have been cautious before stepping on the plane. Almost all of the restaurants in the airports are closed. A lot of clubs are closed. I wouldn't be traveling if I didn't have to but my father-in-law is dying and my husband doesn't want to miss those last days with him. My husband can't travel alone due to a Achilles tendon injury. Just stay home.
The Faroes Islands foren policys is govern from Copenhagen, Denmark. Denmark has opened its borders to Island, Norway and Germany (15th June to 31th August).
Denmark is suggesting a 14 days quarantine if you arrive from other countries then these three. They are not being enforced by law.
We believe that you decide for your self, if you are a thread. As you will have a covid test in Island and there is...
The Faroes Islands foren policys is govern from Copenhagen, Denmark. Denmark has opened its borders to Island, Norway and Germany (15th June to 31th August).
Denmark is suggesting a 14 days quarantine if you arrive from other countries then these three. They are not being enforced by law.
We believe that you decide for your self, if you are a thread. As you will have a covid test in Island and there is a low ratio of infected in Island, Denmark and the Faroes Island you would be safe for us and you + your community at home.
If you arrive from one of the above countries you need Prof of a minimum of 6 days booked accommodation (the West Coast of Jutland, Denmark is a big turist destination for Germans and Norwegians where they stay in so called summerhouses).
My guess is and it is a guess, is that you will not have any problems going from Island to the Faroes Island. But you would have a problem going directly, if that was possibly, from Miami to Tórshavn, the capital of the Faroes. Just make sure you have a min. 6 days accommodation booking. The border police might ask for it.
If you would like me too, i could check it for you, by the Foren Ministry here in Copenhagen?
Have a great trip!
Thanks for doing better.
One thing I would say you should be aware of Ben, is despite being part of the Danish Kingdom, it is a very religious conservative country the Faroe Islands. There is a common joke that whenever Denmark isn't looking they always pass some terrible law or whatever lol! I just think it is important to keep in mind as people don't expect it, especially if you are planning on going with Ford, as they have been actively against rights of g-a-y relationships in the past.
@ ben
https://kvf.fo/greinar/2020/05/14/most-corona-restrictions-are-now-lifted
"Tourists are asked not to travel to the Faroes until 30 June at the earliest, and all incoming travellers will be required to self-quarantine for 14 days.
The authorities are deliberating whether to open up for travel between the Faroes and selected ‘low-risk’ countries such as Iceland."
@ dc_nomad -- Appreciate it, but that's from several weeks ago. With the pace at which things are evolving, that doesn't seem to reflect the government's new rules as of a few days ago.
Restaurant Koks, a Michelin star in the middle of nowhere.
Never been, but seen some amazing reviews. On my bucket list.
koks.fo
It would be such a great summer without American tourists... Hoping Europe keeps borders closed to outside residents in general (Ben will be able to go in with his EU passport anyway so not directed at him)
I'm doing exactly this!
Going to spend couple weeks in Iceland, then try to get married in the Faroe Islands end of July.
Spend 5 days there, then back to Iceland, and then over to Greenland before heading home.
All flights booked, and been talking to some of the admin on the islands, and no one seems daunted that I'm from the US.
I've heard great things, and figure visiting when there are few tourists is worth the risk!
Lucky, while normally I’d say don’t travel stay home I fully understand and think your approach is by far one of the most responsible. I just arrived in Portugal for my holiday. However I should not I basically didn’t go out for a solid 2 months prior only leaving my house for necessities and I took the precaution of getting a test for Covid before I left (negative)
@Lucky: tests are nowhere near accurate enough, and particularly when it comes to recent infections might give false negatives. Just wait - you’ll survive not travelling until things die down. To be honest your last trip report to Penang showed a person tired of travelling. As to entry requirements, these vary a bit from place to place. Eg some countries allow visits of boyfriends/girlfriends, while others only do for married or de facto couples.
One...
@Lucky: tests are nowhere near accurate enough, and particularly when it comes to recent infections might give false negatives. Just wait - you’ll survive not travelling until things die down. To be honest your last trip report to Penang showed a person tired of travelling. As to entry requirements, these vary a bit from place to place. Eg some countries allow visits of boyfriends/girlfriends, while others only do for married or de facto couples.
One more thing: many airlines and destinations have implemented rules that kill any enjoyment. Heard of someone who received an email from his hotel in Ibiza whereby they had to book time slots for breakfast and swimming pool, and no alcohol after 7 pm. We have never had such strict measures implemented in the Nordic region, but the whole experience might not be all that great.
Stay safe, and I look forward to more trip reports once travel becomes more enjoyable :-)
@Lucky: typically entry requirements are based on residency, hence anyone resident in Denmark and Iceland will likely be allowed. On top of that, citizens of the country in question are allowed but subject to quarantine. What could complicate when it comes to the Faroes is that it is not an independent country but part of Denmark from a nationality perspective.
However - I strongly doubt US citizens resident in the US will be allowed in...
@Lucky: typically entry requirements are based on residency, hence anyone resident in Denmark and Iceland will likely be allowed. On top of that, citizens of the country in question are allowed but subject to quarantine. What could complicate when it comes to the Faroes is that it is not an independent country but part of Denmark from a nationality perspective.
However - I strongly doubt US citizens resident in the US will be allowed in until the situation improves in their own country. As a European I most certainly hope you will not be allowed in, and I am not alone with that sentiment. Despite testing being offered or indeed required, this is no guarantee that recently infected people will test positive. If you’re so geared to travel overseas this summer please go to a country like Brazil which has a transmission rate closer to the US.
@ Wilhelm -- It's certainly generally true that entry requirements are often based around citizenship, but that hasn't consistently been the case in light of COVID-19. Look at Greece's plans to welcome back tourists, for example.
In general I totally agree that a lot of people should be restricting entry to Americans, given how this situation has unfolded in the US. That being said, if everyone coming from the US to Iceland has to get...
@ Wilhelm -- It's certainly generally true that entry requirements are often based around citizenship, but that hasn't consistently been the case in light of COVID-19. Look at Greece's plans to welcome back tourists, for example.
In general I totally agree that a lot of people should be restricting entry to Americans, given how this situation has unfolded in the US. That being said, if everyone coming from the US to Iceland has to get a COVID-19 test, then I don't see any practical reasons Americans shouldn't be allowed into the Faroe Islands. Again, I get that's just often how it works out, but with testing this should be a non-issue.
Have you ever been to any of the national parks in the western United States? Why not go there? They're outdoorsy, spectacular, etc. Why the absolute NEED to leave the country?
@ Jason -- There's absolutely no "need" to leave the country. Rather I think on balance it's the safest/best option:
-- I'm unlikely to drive to the Western United States, so if I'm going to fly there's not a huge difference between flying to Iceland and flying to the Western US
-- I expect US National Parks will be crowded like never before this summer, while given Iceland's very limited flight schedule, I...
@ Jason -- There's absolutely no "need" to leave the country. Rather I think on balance it's the safest/best option:
-- I'm unlikely to drive to the Western United States, so if I'm going to fly there's not a huge difference between flying to Iceland and flying to the Western US
-- I expect US National Parks will be crowded like never before this summer, while given Iceland's very limited flight schedule, I suspect it will be significantly less busy, especially shortly after June 15
-- I appreciate how streamlined and easy testing will be when arriving in Iceland
I'm planning some sort of road trip and domestic travel later this summer, but in this case I can't think of anywhere I'd feel more comfortable traveling right now than Iceland.
Please don't take this trip. It is not essential travel. Stay home, save lives. We can only flatten the curve if we all act responsibly.
I'm going from Iceland to the Faroe Islands at the end of June. Only residents of Iceland, Greenland and Denmark are allowed to enter the Faroe Islands in the second half of June but that may change later.
@ David -- Thanks for the heads up! Any chance you have a link somewhere that states that? Totally believe you, but have been unable to independently verify, so just would like to put this to rest one way or another.
First trip report post-Covid is going to be EPIC
I was there last summer. It was absolutely spectacular and one of my favourite “outdoorsy” destinations to date. People in my group have been to Iceland and enjoyed Faroe Islands more. Remember to bring lots of waterproof hiking gear!