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Climate
Greenland is the world’s largest island at 810,810 square miles, which is
the same as France, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, Austria and Belgium put
together. It boasts the Northern Hemisphere’s largest ice sheet – 694,981
square miles, which covers 85 percent of its total area.
The Greenland climate is Arctic to sub-arctic, but the distance
between north and south means there are tremendous differences in
temperature and climate. Thanks to its dry air, its cool summers feel
surprisingly comfortable.
In general, summer temperatures are highest inland and coolest along the
coasts. But you’ll be surprised to know that warm + 70° F days are not
uncommon during the summer!
What to wear
It’s best to be prepared by wearing ”layered” clothing. The outer layer
should be wind and waterproof. Gloves and hats are recommended when sailing.
It is a good idea to wear robust boots waterproof shoes or rubber boots with
a robust sole in the summer and winter. Attire tends to be casual in
Greenland and acceptable also in good restaurants.
Currency
Danish Krone (DKK).
Accepted Credit / Debit Cards and ATM’s
These cards are valid at banks or ATM’s although we advise you to carry some
cash as not all shops accept foreign credit cards: VISA, VISA PLUS-card,
VISA Electron, Eurochequecard, Eurocard/Mastercard.
Entering the country
American citizens do not require a visa for trips shorter than 3 months.
Your passport is required for entry.
Import restrictions
Greenland is not considered a European Union country. Information on what
you can bring into the country is available in airports – although drugs,
weapons, living animals – including pets and birds are not allowed.
Exceptions are made for dogs for the blind.
Export restrictions
It is illegal to import any art or artifact created from a marine mammal,
including whalebone, walrus tusks (ivory) and narwhal tusks (also ivory)
into the USA. For more information, contact a local tourist office.
Electricity
220 voltages is standard (as in much of Europe). You may want to bring an
adapter.
Health system
Hospitals and dental clinics are found in most towns. Acute treatment is
free. There is no hospital in Kangerlussuaq, but a nursing station is open.
You are advised to bring your own prescription medicine on the trip. Travel
health insurance is recommended. No vaccines are required for travel in
Greenland.
Where to stay
Greenland has a wealth of accommodations – everything from hotels and youth
hostels to seaman’s homes. Many of the hotels and seaman’s homes have been
classified in accordance with international standards so you can check their
standards.
National Holiday
Greenland’s National Day is June 21 and is called “Ullortuneq”, which means
the longest day of the year. It is also the official Flag Day, so in
addition to festivities you will see the striking flag with the red half
circle flying proudly everywhere.
Mosquitoes
Be prepared. In July and August mosquitoes are a plague in Greenland just as
they are in all Arctic lands. You are advised to bring a mosquito net or
insect spray or even medicine if you are allergic to insect bites.
Communication
Greenland has a modern telecommunications infrastructure, and it is possible
to access the Internet at most hotels and many net cafes. GSM 850/1900 can
be used if you have an agreement with AT&T Wireless PCS, T Mobile and
Singular Wireless.
Time Zones
There is a two-hour difference between the American East Coast and
Greenland. When it is 10:00 am in Greenland it is 8:00 am EST in Baltimore.
Midnight Sun and Northern Lights
The midnight sun is present north of the Polar Circle during the summer. But
even towns located further south tend to be light at night. The midnight sun
can be experienced over Disko Bay from the end of May to the end of July.
You can see the Northern Lights in late August and September in much of
southern Greenland.
Religion
The Greenland Church is part of the Danish Protestant Church. Churches are
found in all towns, although smaller buildings may be used in smaller
communities. The local Greenlandic language is used.
You are welcome to visit the churches. If they are locked, ask the local
tourist agency for help. Please note that taking photos is generally
forbidden during mass.
Fine Hotels
Hotel Kangerlussuaq is a modern tourist hotel where all rooms used by
Arctic Adventure are offering modern interior, Minibar, satellite TV and
private facilities.
Hotel Arctic is a 4 star hotel offering all facilities. The hotel is
located at the outskirts of the town with the most beautiful view towards
the fiord and the gigantic Icebergs - at Hotel Arctic we furthermore are
able to offer superior rooms, all with a guaranteed fiord view! Free shuttle
bus back and forth between hotel and town.
Hotel Hvide Falk is a 3 star hotel offering private facilities. The
hotel is located in the centre of the city, the restaurant has a fine view
over the Icefjord.
Guesthouse accommodation is also a possibility.
Ilulissat, Town of Icebergs
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