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Communication Essentials

Communication Essentials

Greenland

Mobile Connectivity

Tele-Post Greenland (TELE) is the only provider. SIM cards are at the TELE office.

SIM & Data Tips

  • An Unlocked phone is needed for a local SIM.
  • Local calls and data may be expensive; consider prepaid.
  • Monitor data usage closely.

Internet & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is generally available, though speeds may differ from major urban areas.

Access Points

  • Most hotels and guesthouses offer Wi-Fi, sometimes with a fee.
  • Some cafes in Ilulissat provide Wi-Fi for customers.
  • Look for signs indicating connectivity.

Postal Services

A Tele-Post office is in Ilulissat for sending postcards and mail.

Using the Post Office

  • Send souvenirs back home through the post.
  • Locate the Tele-Post office in town.
  • Consider mailing postcards for a traditional touch.

Language & Translation

Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) and Danish are official languages. English is widespread in tourism.

Helpful Phrases

  • A basic Translation app or phrasebook is useful.
  • Learning a few local phrases gives respect.
  • Aluu (Hello), Qujanaq (Thank you), Assut (Yes), Naamik (No).

Phrases & Language Tips

Greetings & Thanks

  • Aluu (Ah-loo): Hello
  • Qujanaq (Koo-yah-nak): Thank you
  • Assut (Ah-soot): Yes
  • Naamik (Nah-meek): No

Further Expressions

  • Ullorluarit (Oo-lor-loo-a-rit): Excuse me / Farewell
  • Takuss (Tah-kooss): Goodbye
  • English spoken in tourist businesses.
  • Many younger locals speak English.

Connectivity Advice

Consider eSIM options like Airalo or a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi for reliable internet access.

Business Hours & Local Schedules

Understand typical operating hours and holiday impacts on services.

Shop Operating Hours

Supermarkets generally open weekdays 9/10 AM to 5/6 PM, Saturdays close earlier (1/2 PM). Most shops close Sundays.

Banking & ATMs

GrønlandsBANKEN operates limited weekday hours, usually 10 AM to 3 PM. ATMs are at the bank and some larger shops.

Restaurant Timings

Lunch 12-2 PM. Dinner typically starts 6 PM and ends by 9 PM. Hours may vary.

Holiday Closures

Services may have reduced hours or close on Greenlandic and Danish public holidays. Plan accordingly.

Holidays

  • New Year's Day, Easter (multiple days), Great Prayer Day.
  • Ascension Day, Pentecost, Greenland National Day (June 21).
  • Christmas (Dec 24-26), New Year's Eve (Dec 31).

Seasonal Adjustments

Many tour operators, smaller guesthouses, and restaurants operate with reduced services or close in low season.

Low Season Tips

  • Reduced tourist traffic late autumn and winter.
  • Confirm availability and opening hours outside summer.
  • Harsh weather conditions may affect operations.

Language Support

Local Languages

  • English widely spoken in tourist businesses.
  • Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) and Danish are official.
  • Rosetta Stone can help with basic phrases.

Translation Aid

  • Translation apps are useful for non-tourism interactions.
  • Attempting local phrases gives respect.
  • A warm, friendly approach aids communication.

Pre-Booking Reminder

Always check current schedules upon arrival, especially for museums and attractions, as hours vary seasonally.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Interacting respectfully with local culture enriches your journey.

Greeting & Attire

Simple greetings and appropriate dress are appreciated.

Customs

  • A simple 'Aluu' or 'Hi' suffices for greetings. Handshakes occur.
  • Dress for comfort and weather; no strict cultural dress code.
  • Dress respectfully if visiting a church (e.g., covered shoulders, no hats).

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is not customary in Greenland, as service charges are included.

Dining Practices

  • Wait to be seated or follow staff cues.
  • Tipping is not customary; service is included in prices.
  • Greenlandic people value quiet conversation during meals.

Photography Ethics

Always seek permission before photographing people, especially children.

Guidelines

  • Respect privacy; a gesture and smile suffice before photos.
  • Be respectful in churches; avoid flash where prohibited.
  • Do not photograph military installations or sensitive areas.

Taboos & Sensitivity

Approach local traditions and topics with care.

Considerations

  • Avoid sensitive political discussions.
  • Be mindful and respectful of local hunting traditions.
  • Discuss climate change with sensitivity, without blaming locals.

Important Travel Considerations

Social Climate

  • Greenland is generally tolerant and open.
  • Same-sex marriage is legal.
  • No specific cultural restrictions known for gender or orientation.

Airport Services

  • Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access.
  • Compensair assists with flight delays/cancellations.
  • For larger purchases, cards are widely accepted.

Local Currency & Services

Cash & Cards

  • Danish Krone (DKK) is the local currency.
  • Smaller local shops or kiosks may prefer cash.
  • Cards are widely accepted at larger establishments.

Language Resources

  • English is common in tourist-facing businesses.
  • Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) and Danish are official languages.
  • Translation apps or phrasebooks are useful.

Accessibility Advisory

Infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is limited. Many older buildings have stairs; roads can be uneven. Inquire directly with hotels and operators about accessibility features.