Speak Icelandic so you can decline fermented shark politely

Suppose you’ve ever dreamed of learning how to speak Icelandic but felt intimidated by its reputation as one of the world’s most complicated languages. In that case, Óskar Bragi Stefánsson is here to prove it’s possible and fun. Through his popular Instagram account, @Speakviking, Óskar Bragi delivers bite-sized, practical lessons with humor and energy, making Icelandic more accessible than ever.

But he doesn’t stop there—on his website, Speakviking.com, he offers affordable, easy-to-follow courses designed for travelers who want to connect with locals and newcomers moving to Iceland. His passion for the Icelandic language is contagious, and his methods focus on real-world conversation skills rather than textbook memorization.

Óskar’s value proposition is clear: if you want to decline fermented shark in Icelandic without any awkwardness, he will give you the skills to do so. I have always admired those who embark on learning Icelandic. After all, it is a fringe language spoken only on a volcanic island off the coast of Greenland. Now, these brave souls have a new friend and ally.

In this interview, we sit down with Óskar Bragi to learn more about his journey, his approach to teaching Icelandic, and his best advice for those eager to master the language.

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What inspired you to start Speak Viking, and how did you develop your unique teaching approach?

I started Speak Viking because I saw people struggling with Icelandic, thinking it was impossible to learn. But I knew it didn’t have to be that way. Icelandic isn’t just a “pesky” language—it’s a living, breathing piece of Iceland’s history—and I wanted to teach it in a fun, immersive, and useful way.

Instead of dry textbooks, my approach is about embracing the adventure of learning. I mix storytelling, humor, and real-life conversation so learners don’t just memorize words—they feel the language. 

Over time, I fine-tuned this method by paying attention to what made students laugh, what made them go “aha!”, and what helped them speak Icelandic confidently in the real world.

What’s the biggest myth about learning Icelandic?

That it’s impossible—or that you need to be some linguistic genius to get anywhere with it—is just plain wrong.

Sure, Icelandic has its quirks, but show me a language that doesn’t. The real obstacle isn’t the grammar or the vocabulary—it’s the mentality you bring to it. Walk in thinking, This is too hard, this is impossible, and naturally, it will be. But approach it like an adventure—challenging but rewarding—and you’ll be surprised what sticks.

Another persistent myth? That Icelanders will ONLY speak English with you. That is not true at all.

Make even a modest attempt at their language—try out the simplest phrases—and you’ll see faces light up. They appreciate the effort and respect the intention. The secret to learning Icelandic isn’t hidden in some textbook or app. It’s simpler and harder than that: Just start.

What’s the most helpful phrase or word every Iceland traveler should know?

Jæja. Because it’s one word that kinda says it all. Or it can. You can throw this flash grenade into any Icelandic conversation, and you’re golden. Depending on how you say it, it could mean “Let’s roll,” “Well then…,” “Moving on,” or even “Are you kidding me right now?” 

Get comfortable with jæja, and you’ve basically cracked the code to speak like a local.

For someone visiting Iceland for the first time, how much Icelandic do you think they need to know to have meaningful interactions?

Well, at the risk of contradicting myself with the jæja statement, learning a few basic phrases can go a really long way, showing locals that you are approaching your travels with respect for the culture. And it can create some genuine moments with locals. Things like „takk” (thanks), „góðan daginn” (good day), and maybe that versatile „jæja” we just talked about. And then maybe throw in a catchphrase every now and then, like já, sæll! Plus: „Hvar er klósettið?” (Where’s the bathroom) can come in REAL handy.

You use humor and practical situations in your Instragam videos —why do you think this is an effective way to teach a language?

Because humor, when done well, disarms people in the best way. Language learning can feel intimidating, but when you’re laughing, you’re relaxed—and when you’re relaxed, you learn faster.

Practical situations make it stick because you can see yourself actually using these phrases. A good joke or a relatable moment takes a forgettable phrase and makes it memorable. It’s about turning language from something you study into something you’ll actually use—when you’re ordering food, asking for directions, or just trying to have a basic conversation without looking completely lost.

What are people’s biggest mistakes when learning Icelandic, and how can they avoid them?

Perfectionism. Trying to achieve some mythical linguistic purity is the enemy of both progress AND enjoyment. Unsubscribe to that nonsense right away.

Getting hung up on those intimidating, impossible-looking words isn’t doing you any favors. Too many people spend months drilling pronunciation or trying to master all the grammar rules – and never actually speak to a living soul, which is a damn shame. You can jump in and make mistakes – most Icelanders appreciate the effort way more than textbook grammar or accent-free speech. Sure, you risk looking foolish – but aren’t we all walking around with that risk anyway? Can you honestly say you’ve never put your foot in your mouth in your native language?

Also, trying to approach Icelandic like other languages is a road to frustration. It’s not Spanish or French. It’s not even close to Norwegian or Danish. Icelandic is its own beast with case systems that’ll make your head spin. It is better to collect useful phrases and gradually spot patterns than obsess over grammatical rules until you’re ready to give up. Instead, learn to say ‘Ég er að læra íslensku’ (I’m learning Icelandic), deliver it with a smile, and watch how people respond.

Can you share a success story from one of your students who surprised you with their progress?

One of my students once told me that, after years of steady practice, he suddenly realized he could understand Icelandic news headlines without even thinking about it. There were no big breakthroughs, just small, daily exposure—following Icelandic accounts, reading a little here and there, and never taking long breaks. Another student took this same approach and, after years of learning, could sing a Bubbi Morthens song flawlessly. The lesson? Icelandic rewards patience.

What are your top tips for someone who wants to speak Icelandic but doesn’t have much time to study?

Make time.

But seriously, if you’re genuinely squeezed for time, focus on phrases you’ll actually use in the real world. Five minutes of flashcards during your commute beats some ambitious hour-long study session you’ll probably bail on anyway.

Find Icelandic media you actually enjoy – podcasts, music, or shows – so learning happens while you’re being entertained. Pair language with another daily habit: listen while making coffee, label household items, or set your phone to Icelandic.

The truth is, language learning doesn’t happen in those mythical “when I have more time” blocks we keep waiting for. It happens in those small spaces between everything else in your day.

What are your favorite places and activities in Iceland? 

The book café in Selfoss, the swimming pool in Hveragerði, pancakes at my grandmother’s in Seyðisfjörður, and going to the movies (but not with my grandmother – she thinks it’s a talking activity, and we disagree on this issue). It’s hard to pick places: Snæfellsnes Peninsula has everything—epic landscapes, black sand beaches, and a glacier straight out of the sagas. Seltjarnarnes, which is serene but also quite dramatic with ocean views that are heavy on crashing waves – they’ve got a great pool but I’m tempted not to share because I’d like it basically empty, so Seltjarnarnes is one of my favorite escapes in the capital area. Then there’s Hveragerði Swimming Pool, which is quaint but also has the most intense steambath of all time. And for the essential hipster café vibes, I love Pallett Coffee House in Hafnarfjörður, the book café in Selfoss (I’m saying it twice because it’s so nice), and of course Skool Beans in Vík, where you get to enjoy great coffee inside a converted school bus.

As for activities, I’m all about hot pots, good coffee, and spontaneous adventures. Whether I’m swimming in one of Iceland’s many geothermal pools, road-tripping with no set plan, or hiking a good mid-sized mountain, I love experiencing Iceland in a way that feels relaxed yet somehow adventurous. I also have a soft spot for going to the movies—blockbusters, indies, or the insane avant-garde—as long as there’s popcorn and coke.

And then there’s my bucket list—I want to hike around Landmannalaugar, revisit Ásbyrgi, and even rediscover Iceland through the eyes of travelers, whether that’s whale watching, ice caving, or riding an Icelandic horse across a lava field. Sometimes, visitors pleasantly remind us of the magic in our own backyard.

What advice do you have for those visiting Iceland for the first time?

Dress in layers, expect the weather to betray you, and learn a few Icelandic phrases—locals love it when you try! Respect nature, don’t touch the moss, and whatever you do—never, ever ask an Icelander if they believe in elves. The answer is more complicated than you think.