Your first year in Iceland will be emotional and full of change.  You may be looking for a place to live, a job, and schools for your children.  You will probably make new friends.  Some of them will know how it feels to move to a new country. You will also face many challenges.  For example, you will have to learn Icelandic. You may need more education or training.  Perhaps you will have to take a first job or home that is less than you expected.

Regardless of your situation, being a newcomer may mean giving up some familiar things for a new way of life.  As a result, you may feel anxious or afraid, especially during the first few days and weeks. These emotions are normal and even healthy. Almost all newcomers experience them as they settle in. Feeling at home in a new country takes time, and some people adapt more quickly than others.  However, many people go through the following three phases:

PHASE ONE - Just before or shortly after arriving in Iceland you may have high hopes and expectations.  This is an exciting time.  Some people feel very confident and can deal easily with problems and stress.

PHASE TWO - During the first six months you will have many good experiences and some less enjoyable ones as well.  You may feel very happy about the challenges you have overcome.  You will also find that some things you had hoped for have not come true.  As a result, you may sometimes feel frustrated, confused and depressed.  It is not uncommon to feel very positive one day and very negative the next. Some people may even experience what is called culture shock. There is more information about culture shock and how to deal with it later in the chapter. All of this is normal.  It can even be rewarding.  Dealing with different experiences and feelings may teach you as much about yourself as about Iceland and Icelanders.

PHASE THREE - Eventually you will become comfortable and more confident.  For older people with strong traditional habits and customs, this may take several years.  Others, especially young people, may adjust fairly quickly.  Sooner or later most newcomers adapt and begin to feel at home.

The best way to adjust to your new community is to get involved!  Try to speak Icelandic, even if you make mistakes.  Understanding Iceland’s language will help you adapt more easily.  As you talk with the people you meet, you will feel more in control of your new life.

Use each day as an opportunity to learn.  Ask questions whenever you need help.   Most people are pleased to help and will understand your needs.

You can get information from many different sources at no cost.  For example:

• ALÞJÓÐAHÚS / THE INTERCULTURAL CENTER, Hverfisgata 18,
  101 Reykjavik.  Tel: 530 9300.
• Some communities may have cultural associations for people of your own cultural background. Contact the Intercultural Centre for further information.
• Tourism information centers can help you explore your new community and find your way around.  For instance in Reykjavik on Aðalstræti 2.