Faroe Islands Travel Guide

• In the Faroe Islands, tipping is not a common practice and is generally not expected. Service charges are typically included in the bill at restaurants and cafés, so there is no need to tip. However, if you receive exceptional service, leaving a small tip or rounding up the bill is appreciated but not necessary. Tipping hotel staff, including housekeeping and bellhops, is also not customary, though a small tip for exceptional service can be given if you wish. While tipping tour guides is not standard practice, you can leave a small tip if you feel the guide provided excellent service. For other services like haircuts or spa treatments, tipping is not common.
• In the Faroe Islands, dress is primarily influenced by the islands’ cool maritime climate, necessitating practical, weather-appropriate clothing. Layering is typical due to the unpredictable weather, with multiple layers helping people stay warm and adapt to changing conditions throughout the day. Waterproof and windproof outerwear is essential, given the frequent rain and strong winds; jackets, coats, and sturdy footwear are designed to keep individuals dry and comfortable. Everyday dress tends to be casual and practical, with jeans, sweaters, and comfortable shoes being common choices. Hats, gloves, and scarves are frequently worn to protect against the cold and wind, especially during the colder months.
• Traditional Faroese knitwear, including sweaters and scarves made from local wool, is popular for its warmth, durability, and distinctive patterns.
• On special occasions and festivals, traditional Faroese clothing featuring colorful, intricately patterned knitwear and other culturally significant garments is worn.
• Driving in the Faroe Islands presents both scenic beauty and unique challenges due to the rugged terrain and narrow, winding roads. The road network is generally well-maintained but can be narrow and winding, especially in rural areas and on smaller islands. Speed limits typically range from 50 to 80 km/h (31 to 50 mph) on main roads, with lower limits on smaller, more winding routes. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with fog, rain, and strong winds common, particularly near coastal areas, necessitating careful driving and adjusting speeds for visibility. Drivers should be cautious of free-roaming sheep and other wildlife, which can appear unexpectedly on roads, especially in rural regions.
• Undersea tunnels and bridges interconnect the islands. Some of them are single-lane, requiring drivers to navigate carefully and yield to oncoming traffic at passing places. The tunnels have tolls and can be pricey.
• Parking in urban areas can be limited, and adherence to parking regulations is essential to avoid fines or towing.
• The Faroe Islands offer a high quality of life anchored in a unique blend of natural beauty, community cohesion, and modern amenities. Known for its safe environment with low crime rates, residents enjoy a sense of security that complements the islands’ pristine landscapes and clean air.
• The healthcare system is robust, providing accessible and high-quality medical services. Education is of great value, with well-developed public schools and opportunities for higher learning.
• The Faroese culture, steeped in tradition and community spirit, fosters a strong sense of belonging, which is celebrated through arts, music, and local festivals. Despite being largely reliant on fishing and aquaculture economically, efforts are ongoing to diversify industries, promoting a balanced work-life environment.
• Infrastructure is well-maintained, supporting efficient transportation and utility services across the archipelago.
• Public restrooms in the Faroe Islands are generally clean and well-maintained, reflecting the overall high standards of hygiene on the islands. You can find public restrooms in various locations such as tourist information centers, restaurants, cafes, and public buildings like libraries and museums. In more remote or rural areas, facilities may be less frequent, so it’s advisable to plan restroom breaks accordingly when exploring outside urban centers. Many public restrooms may require a small fee for use, typically paid using coins, so it’s helpful to carry some local currency.
• This controversial tradition of Grindadrap involves the annual whale hunt, where pilot whales are herded into shallow bays and harvested for meat by residents. While it’s a deeply ingrained cultural practice, it’s also a subject of international debate.
• The Faroese are known for their intricate knitting traditions, producing distinctive woolen garments such as sweaters and shawls. Visitors can appreciate the craftsmanship and often purchase locally-made knitwear as souvenirs.
• The Faroe Islands host various cultural festivals throughout the year, celebrating music, arts, and local traditions. The Ólavsøka Festival in Tórshavn is particularly significant, featuring parades, traditional Faroese rowing competitions, and cultural performances.
• Faroese, a North Germanic language, is the main dialect alongside Danish. Learning a few basic phrases can enhance interactions with locals. Folklore and storytelling also play a significant role in Faroese culture, with tales of mythical creatures and legends passed down through generations.
• Traditional Faroese cuisine often includes locally sourced ingredients such as lamb, fish, and seabirds. Visitors can try delicacies like ræst kjøt (fermented lamb), fish dishes, and homemade pastries.
• The Faroese have a deep respect for their natural surroundings, which are influenced by their remote island lifestyle. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs, follow hiking and wildlife guidelines, and appreciate the unspoiled beauty of the landscapes.
• Faroese hospitality is warm and welcoming, reflecting the tight-knit community values. Visitors may experience invitations to local homes or cultural events, offering insights into daily life and traditions.
• Dining etiquette in the Faroe Islands is similar to general Scandinavian customs with local nuances.
• It’s advisable to make reservations, especially during peak seasons, and to arrive on time, as punctuality is important culturally.
• Table manners include keeping elbows off the table and avoiding loud behavior.
• Toasts are common, and you should wait for the host to make the first toast before drinking, reciprocating with a toast in return. Start eating only after the host or the eldest person at the table begins, and use utensils correctly, starting from the outside in.
• The Faroe Islands maintain a stable political environment within the broader framework of the Kingdom of Denmark; ongoing discussions and developments reflect the islands’ unique challenges and aspirations for the future.
• In the Faroe Islands, greetings are characterized by warmth and politeness, reflecting the local culture’s emphasis on hospitality and community. Handshakes are common, especially in formal or business settings, accompanied by firm grips and direct eye contact.
• For friends and acquaintances, informal greetings like “Hallo” or “Hei” are typical, often followed by the inquiry “Hvussu gongur?” (How are you?).
• In more formal situations or when addressing elders or strangers respectfully, use phrases such as “Góðan dagin” (Good day) or “Góðan morgun” (Good morning). Farewells are often “Farvæl” (Goodbye) or “Góðan dagin aftur” (Good day again).
• It is a very safe country.

Want to learn about Wanderers Compass?

Do you have a question for us or have a comment?