What's On in Reykjavik - January 2016

JANUARY 2016

IN REYKJAVIK

REYKJAVIK’S LEADING GUIDE TO INFORMATION, EVENTS, MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES.

www.reykjavikcitymuseum.is

CHECK OUT THE NEW

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM C O M P R I S I N G 5 TO P M U S E U M S :

Árbær Open Air Musem

The Settlement Exhibition

Viðey Island

Reykjavík Museum of Photography

More information in the Art & Culture section.

Reykjavík Maritime Museum

Reykjavík Art Museum

One admission to three museums

OPEN DAILY

Ásmundur Sveinsson. Yearning for Space.

Monika Grzymala. Raimzeichnung, 2015.

Erró. Jaime Sabartes, 1964.

HAFNARHÚS TRYGGVAGATA 17 Monika Grzymala: Envoy Back to the Sandbox Art and Radical Pedagogy The Making of Erró

ÁSMUNDARSAFN SIGTÚN Ásmundur Sveinsson Yearning for Space

KJARVALSSTAÐIR FLÓKAGATA

Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Thursdays 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

www.artmuseum.is / artmuseum@reykjavik.is / +354 590 1200

WHAT’S ON

CONTENTS JANUARY 2016

ON THE COVER JANUARY IN REYKJAVIK

EXPERIENCE 6-27

WHAT’S ON

28-41

REYKJAVIK CITY MAP 42-43

MUSEUM WALK

44-45

EVENT CALENDAR

46-61

ART & CULTURE

62-67

NIGHTLIFE 68-69

SHOPPING & STYLE

70-73

FOOD & DRINK

74-79

PRACTICAL INFO

80-83

There’s something about the beginning of a new year that makes you feel all shiny and new.

But January can also feel cold and dark so in my opinion it only makes sense to dedicate January to taking care of yourself, mind, body and soul.

By taking care of yourself, I’m not advocating some Spartan lifestyle where you eat nothing but carrots and follow through on all your aspirational New Year’s resolutions (unless you’re into that sort of thing). Instead I suggest pampering yourself a little bit. Take a hike to a beautiful place you’ve never seen before (that should be easy in Iceland), and afterwards, try an Icelandic swimming pool.

More specifically, try the hot tubs next to the swimming pools. They’re popular with the locals as a place to relax and chat to the other swimmers and they’re geothermally heated, so it’s environmentally friendly to boot.

When you’ve taken care of your body’s needs, it’s time to take care of the mind. Visiting a new country is the perfect chance to take the time to learn new things. Why not take advantage of the great museums Reykjavík has to offer and learn about Iceland’s history, its one-of-akind geology or even its art and music scene?

To take care of the soul, be sure to take the time and appreciate your time in Iceland. I recommend taking a tour to see the pristine Icelandic nature and just taking a moment to enjoy it. Whatever you do, try to get a chance to see the Northern Lights while you’re here.

When these swirling sheets of lights take over the winter sky, it’s impossible not to stop and stare. Getting out of the city is key, there’s nothing like leaving the crowds of the town behind and being alone with the Aurora Borealis.

CONTACT US: WHATSON@WHATSON.IS

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Layout & design: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, sbs@sbs.is Content writers: The What’s On Team

Cover Photo: Reykjavik Excursion

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Editor: Hjörtur Atli Guðmunds. Geirdal, hjortur@whatson.is, Tel.: 847-4153.

Assistant Editor: Gréta Sigríður Einarsdóttir, greta@whatson.is

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Volume 34 – Issue 1. Published by MD Reykjavik ehf. Laugavegur 4, 101 Reykjavik.

Publisher: Sigurþór Marteinn Tel.: 899-2255. E-mail: sm@whatson.is

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PRINTED MATTER

Map: Kári Gunnarsson

Printing: Oddi, Ecolabelled Printing Company WHAT‘S ON IN REYKJAVIK is published monthly covering events and happenings in and around Reykjavik.

Opinions expressed in WHAT‘S ON IN Reykjavik are those of the individual authors. While every effort has been made to ensure the information presented is accurate, prices, times, dates and other information may be subject to change.

WINTER ADVENTURE DAY TOURS MAKE SURE IT’S MOUNTAIN GUIDES

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Ministry for the Environment and Natural Resources

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ICELANDAIR PIONEER AWARD

MOUNTAINGUIDES.IS info@mountainguides.is · Tel: +354 587 9999 1

SCAN TO BOOK NOW

EXPERIENCE

THE WHAT’S ON

JANUARY CHECKLIST There are loads of things to do for entertainment in Reykjavik this month! Here are a few “must-do’s” you can try out.

You can find checklists from past months at whatson.is

As always, we encourage you to tag your photos using #WhatsOnRvk, as proof that you did all those things you’re boasting of!

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Stop by the Volcano House and learn all about the powerful volcanic activity underneath Iceland..

Go see the Northern Lights! Check out our guide to maximise your chances of seeing this natural wonder Take winter in Iceland all the way, go snowmobiling on a glacier!

Warm up after a cold day by going swimming in a geothermal pool.

If you’re feeling a bit more luxurious, Reykjavík has great Spas too!

Eat some fish! As you can imagine, Reykjavík has some great restaurants specialising in seafood dishes It’s after Christmas, which means only one thing. Everything’s on sale! Use this opportunity to stock up on gorgeous clothes, Icelandic design products or warm and cosy winter clothing.

CHECK OUT OLDER CHECKLISTS AT WHATSON.IS/CHECKLIST

We proudly present our latest collection. The Icelandic designed Tradition watches are stylish and are available in a range of color combinations. See the whole collection on michelsenwatch.com.

Laugavegur 15 - 101 ReykjavĂ­k - Tel. 354 511 1900 - www.michelsenwatch.com

EXPERIENCE

#WhatsOnRvk So you‘re in Iceland, enjoying life, seeing the sights and taking in everything our magnificent country has to offer. Why not share it with the world?

Follow WhatsOnIceland on Instagram for more beautiful shots from Iceland!

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As always, we encourage you to tag your photos using #WhatsOnRvk, as proof that you did all those things you’re boasting of!

EXPERIENCE

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EXPERIENCE

THE REYKJAVIK Reykjavík is filled with things to do, places to go and stuff to see but some are just a little bit more important than others.

1 | HALLGRÍMSKIRKJA Hallgrímskirkja church is one of Reykjavík’s most iconic buildings and is visible from almost anywhere in the city. The tower of the church is among the city’s highest buildings and offers a fantastic view of the city for the small price of 700ISK for adults, 100ISK for children. Hallgrímskirkja is the largest church and the sixth tallest architectural structure in Iceland.

It’s named after the Icelandic poet and clergyman Hallgrímur Petursson, author of the Passion Hymns. The architect who designed it, Guðjón Samúelsson is said to have designed it to resemble the basalt lava flows of Iceland’s landscape.

2 | PERLAN Standing at 25 metres, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings and although it was opened to the public in 1991 its modern construction still makes it a stand-out piece of architecture. Up on the fourth level there‘s a 360 degree viewing platform where you can get the best panoramic views of Reykjavík. When the sun sets it’s a spectacular spot for the Northern Lights. You can also dine at the Perlan restaurant that slowly rotates so you get to see the whole city without ever having to turn your head.

Check out our map on p. 42 for the locations of these sights.

3 | TJÖRNIN

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People go to the pond to feed the birds and enjoy one of the most amazing views that Reykjavík has to offer. There isn’t a better place in the city to enjoy a beautiful sunset and you can watch or feed a huge variety of birdlife that calls the lake home while you’re at it. When the lake freezes over in winter, geothermal hot water is pumped in to defrost an area for the birds while the rest of the pond is taken over by ice skaters. It makes for a romantic atmosphere likely to keep you warm despite the frost.

4 | AUSTURVÖLLUR When the sun is shining and the air is hot, Austurvöllur is the place to be no matter who you are. Surrounded by cafés and restaurants on Vallarstræti and Pósthússtræti, this public square is a wildly popular spot for locals to dine outside, soak up some sunshine or recline in the grass with picnics.

With its close proximity to the Parliament of Iceland building, Austurvöllur has contrastingly also been the gathering place for political protests. At the center of it all stands a statue of Jón Sigurðsson, the renowned figure who led Iceland to independence.

5 | KOLAPORTIÐ Whether you want to sample dried fish and fermented shark, purchase a bag of Icelandic candy or browse through thrifted clothing, Kolaportið should be the destination of your choice. Kolaportið is an indoor flea market that is open during the weekend between 11am-5pm. The atmosphere is completely unique and the old industrial building is usually filled with people hunting for books or antiques, grocery shopping at the food court, selling their old garments, buying music and DVD’s or digging through piles of stuff in search of hidden treasures. We recommend bringing cash, as the majority of stalls don‘t accept cards.

6 | HARPA The whole 28.000 square meters of Harpa stand at the edge of the Reykjavik Harbour. It houses Iceland‘s biggest concert hall suitable for a broad range of concerts and cultural events, a conference centre with meeting facilities and in-house catering and fine restaurants. Harpa also occasionally hosts promotions, plays, and public events. It‘s open to everyone, always, and you should definitely visit Harpa, whether it‘s for a show, to buy souvenirs, a concert or just a lovely dinner in one of the fabulous restaurants. Harpa was designed by a Danish firm in co-operation with Ólafur Elíasson, an Icelandic artist, and opened to the public in 2011.

7 | THE OLD HARBOR It‘s the first lasting harbor in Reykjavík although it’s no longer the city’s busiest one. The most visited area is the eastern pier where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals and offices selling guided tours. You will find numerous whale watching companies willing to take you out to sea on unforgettable excursions and the area is filled with excellent restaurants (sushi and other seafood, tapas, burgers, etc.) and coffee houses. The atmosphere at the old harbour is friendly, the air is fresh and salty and there’s plenty of interesting activities to check out.

EXPERIENCE

SIGHT EXPERIENCE

8 | THE SUN VOYAGER

9 | CITY HALL City hall is an impressive, modern building that sits on the northern shore of lake Tjörnin. It not only houses the offices of the mayor and the city‘s executive officials but also an information desk, exhibition halls and a café with internet access, all open to visitors. The restaurant boasts huge glass windows so you can sit back and admire the water and the bird life as well as the view of the old buildings around Tjörnin. Go to the galleries to admire one of the exciting and everchanging exhibitions on display. The three dimensional map of Iceland is also a favourite with visitors to the country.

10 | LAUGARDALSLAUG Every country has traditions when it comes to leisure. Iceland’s big thing is swimming pools. Laugardalslaug is the city’s largest pool with extensive facilities, located in Laugardalur Valley. Its facilities include a 50m outdoor pool, outdoor children’s pool and paddling pool, two waterslides, numerous hot tubs, steam bath, gym and mini golf course. There really is no better place to be on a sunny day, or a cold one for that matter. Right outside you will find a hot dog stand where you can buy traditional a Icelandic hot dog.

Find these places on the centerfold map.

Check out our map on p. 42 for the locations of these sights.

A beautiful sculpture of a Viking ship located by the ocean on a small peninsula by Sæbraut, close to the Reykjavík center. The sculpture by Jón Gunnar Árnason symbolises the Viking past of the Icelanders and an ode to the sun. It serves as reminder of our history and heritage when the first Viking settlers came sailing to Iceland. An ideal opportunity to see Sólfarið at its best is when the sun is setting, at whatever time that may be. It should be every photographer’s dream to capture the amazing view.

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EXPERIENCE

FIVE THINGS TO DO ON A RAINY DAY Reykjavík is filled with cosy indoor places that make being inside feel like a perfectly good way to spend a day, even preferable to outdoor activities. If it’s raining outside, and you’re not sure what you should do with yourself, here are a few ideas for activities and places you could visit in our lovely country. Enjoy!

MUSEUMS Reykjavík is a veritable feast of cultural treats.

Whether it’s art, history or science you’re after, the museums in this small Nordic city offer an array of interesting and diverse exhibitions year round, guaranteed to pique your interest. When it starts to drizzle, try visiting the Reykjavík Art Museum.

It has three locations, Hafnarhúsið, Kjarvalsstaðir and Ásmundarsafn and purchasing admission to any one of these automatically grants you access to the other two, making it the perfect choice for rainy day. Check out the Event Calendar on page 47 for information on current exhibitions and opening hours, as well as other museums to visit!

CAFÉS It’s hard to explain why Icelanders have such a deep love for coffee, considering it doesn’t grow anywhere near this Nordic island. Maybe it has something to do with those long dark winter mornings, but whatever the reason, the sheer quantity of cafés in downtown Reykjavík is proof positive of Icelanders’ affection for the black stuff.

The cafés range from small holes-in-the-wall with take-away coffee to places with plush couches on which you could stay sitting comfortably for several hours. Whiling away the hours chatting, people watching or taking advantage of the free Wi-Fi most places offer, while drinking an expertly made café latté is a great way to avoid the rain.

DRIVE IN THE COUNTRYSIDE

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The Icelandic landscape is amazing whatever the weather, but hiking in the rain is a recipe for a

cold toes and grumpy moods. Zooming past the dramatic landscapes of the Icelandic countryside from the comfort and warmth of a bus or a car, however, can be extremely enjoyable. Be sure to blast some great Icelandic music on your drive, it can only enhance the experience.

SWIMMING You may think that it sounds strange to go for a swim in the rain, but contrary to popular belief, swimming in Iceland is particularly enjoyable in bad weather. This is thanks to the geothermal heat that keeps you nice and toasty in the hot tubs while you chat with the locals The inexpensive admission doesn’t hurt either. There are several publicly run swimming pools, one in most neighbourhoods and they are popular with the residents who go frequently for the exercise, social interaction and the relaxing qualities of the hot water.

MOVIE AT BÍÓ PARADÍS While most movie theatres in Iceland show the same uninspired Hollywood blockbusters, Bíó Paradís keeps up an ambitious schedule of internationally acclaimed movies from all over the world. It hosts several film festivals and airs Icelandic movies with English subtitles all year round. It’s also the only cinema in downtown Reykjavík and a great place to keep dry and out of the waterworld outside. Not only is it a great place to watch great movies, it also has a place to sit down, get some coffee or a beer, before or after the movie. It even hosts small concerts and other happenings every now and then.

EXPERIENCE

5 FACTS YOU (PROBABLY) DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT ICELANDIC VOLCANOES

AN ICELANDIC VOLCANO IS THE REASON FOR DEMOCRACY AS WE KNOW IT The 1783-4 eruption of Laki was history’s biggest volcanic eruption. When it erupted, the ash darkened the sky over all of Europe for years.

The ash’s toxicity caused widespread crop failures. The resulting famine all over Europe was almost certainly one of the causes of the French revolution in 1789, ultimately resulting in the first modern democracy as we know it.

You’re welcome…

NOT JUST ONE, BUT TWO OF THE BIGGEST ERUPTIONS IN THE RECORDED HISTORY OF THE WORLD, OCCURRED IN ICELAND! Not only was Laki the biggest eruption in recorded history, measured by volume of lava, but Iceland was also the site of the second biggest emission in recorded history, just recently: the 2014 eruption of Bárðarbunga.

In just 6 months, Bárðarbunga produced enough lava to cover the island of Manhattan – 85km2.

It still isn‘t close to matching Laki; that eruption produced 370 km2 of lava, the size of the Gaza strip, in only 50 days!

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All photos provided by the Volcano House

EXPERIENCE

ICELAND HAS THE ONLY ISLAND SCIENTISTS HAVE BEEN ABLE TO OBSERVE AND DOCUMENT FROM THE MOMENT OF ITS CREATION: SURTSEY Surtsey was formed by a volcanic eruption at the bottom of the ocean and emerged from the water on November 14, 1963.

It was immediately granted protection by law and no one was allowed to set foot on the island. To this day only scientists are allowed to go there, and even they have to get special permission. This means that we have been able to monitor how life settles on a brand-new land from the beginning, and the information gained has been invaluable to scientists.

Surtsey is one of the very youngest islands in the world and also the southernmost point of Iceland.

1/3 OF ALL THE EARTH’S FRESH LAVA ORIGINATED IN ICELAND! Let me explain what I mean by fresh. When you’re discussing volcanoes, all concepts that have something to do with time get a bit skewed. For instance, fresh lava means lava emissions on earth since the year 1500. For such a small island, that’s a pretty impressive amount of lava. It’s maybe not surprising, considering…

ICELAND HAS A VOLCANIC ERUPTION EVERY 4-5 YEARS! The island has somewhere around 150-200 volcanoes, split into different volcanic systems.

About 30 different systems are still considered “active” in Iceland, and 13 of them have erupted since the Viking Settlement in 874.

WANT TO GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH THE VOLCANOES OF ICELAND? These volcano facts were supplied by Morgan Tournadre, a geology student who works at the Volcano House in Reykjavík. For more information on volcanoes and geothermal activity in Iceland, go visit it while you’re in Reykjavík. They have a mineral exhibition and an hour-long documentary on volcanoes is shown every hour, on the hour.

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EXPERIENCE

THE WHAT’S ON

ICELAND‘S SECRET TO HEALTHY LIVING Legend has it that the Vikings introduced Skyr to Iceland when they settled in the country some 1.100 years ago. Travel back in time to any farm and Skyr would be on the table – essential nourishment for young and old. Generations past may not have been able to measure the nutritional content in the way we can now, but the life-expectancy of the average Icelander was proof enough that something good was going on.

Icelanders have ever since loved the smooth texture of this incredibly healthy dairy product and today it plays a big role in the modern lifestyle

diet. Skyr is high in protein and a virtually fat-free dairy delight. Thick and creamy in consisteny, it is also rich in calcium and other nutrients.

Skyr can be found at almost every home and workplace. Enjoyed at breakfast, lunchtime, pretty much anytime, it has also become a healthy „fastfood“ for active people on the go. Delicious in smoothies or energy-boosting drinks, it even features on the dessert menus of many top restaurants, which are bringing a contemporary twist to this established favourite.

For more information on skyr, visit skyr.is

SKYR EXPERIENCE

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EXPERIENCE

Skyr is available in many different varieties, both flavored and plain and in small containers and large. For an easy on-the-go treat, a spoon comes with the smaller ones. Below are some of the flavors available.

MS SKYR – PLAIN Skyr was originally only available as plain and was made at every farm in Iceland.

Nowadays there are many flavors available but some still prefer the plain one. It can be enjoyed with berries and cream and perhaps with a little bit of honey or sugar. In the fall many Icelanders pick fresh berries and enjoy it with skyr. Plain Skyr is also a good base for all sorts of cold sauses.

KEA SKYR WITH VANILLA Originated in the northern part of Iceland, this is one of the most popular flavors available. The taste is full and creamy with zero fat.

For more information on skyr, visit skyr.is

MS SKYR.IS WITH BAKED APPLES

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A new variety in this popular brand. As with other skyr, it is high in protein and fatfree as well as being low-carb. Even though it is low-carb the flavor is reminiscent of a creamy dessert.

MS SKYR.IS WITH BLUEBERRIES This is a long time favorite in Skyr.is, Skyr with blueberries has a long tradition in Iceland. The taste is very rich and full of blueberries.

EXPERIENCE

THE ICELANDIC

Although beer and ale have been brewed in Iceland for a long time, beer production was limited during the 20th century, as beer was illegal in Iceland until 1989! Icelanders have more than made up for lost time and the growth in recent years has been amazing. In just a few years, we‘ve seen many great breweries emerge, filled with ambition and ingenuity, and beer is now the most popular alcoholic beverage in Iceland. It’s no wonder, as Icelandic beer is delicious, in no small part thanks to the Icelandic water; renowned for its purity and quality.

These are our favourites, don’t leave Reykjavík without stopping by a pub or a bar and tasting at least one (or all) of them!

VÍKING CLASSIC Víking Classic is a Vienna style beer with golden amber colour and taste of roasted malt. It has a good body and medium bitterness with balancing sweetness and a hint of caramel.

The name might seem a bit presumptuous as this classic has only been in production for a few years, but it’s in fact named after the Danish “Classic” style of beer. Víking Classic is available in draught, bottles and cans and is part of the Víking beer family which is the most popular beer brand in Iceland.

EINSTÖK WHITE ALE

Find more articles like this at whatson.is/christmas/

A clean and crisp start with a smooth mouthfeel thanks to the oats, citrus and spice round out a refreshing finish.

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Einstök beer is brewed up north, just 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle, not that you would guess it when you taste this summery, citrusy white ale. It has the complex flavours of a classic witbier, all brewed with pure Icelandic water for a cool smoothness that is deliciously refreshing. Don’t forget to ask for a slice of orange!

KALDI Kaldi is a very mild and comfortable pilsner, dry, fresh, slightly bitter, with notes of roasted barley and hops, and has 5% ABV. You might detect a hint of sweetness as well.

The Brewery on Árskógssandur was the first microbrewery that opened in Iceland, back in 2006.

Their first product, Kaldi, definitely paved the way for the rest of them. The regular Kaldi is a pure pilsner, with all the ingredients, except the Icelandic water, coming from the Czech Republic. Even their Brewmaster is Czech! Kaldi is the most sold bottled beer in Iceland today and has been tremendously well received. Following its success, the brewery opened Kaldi bar in the centre of Reykjavík, where all the varieties of Kaldi beer are available. Kaldi bar is of course the best place to get Kaldi, but it’s available in other bars as well and in bottles in the liquor stores.

KALDI DARK A dark pilsner, it‘s similar to the regular Kaldi, but the main difference is the use of burnt malt, which provides the beautiful, distinctive dark colour and deepens the flavour.

Most Icelanders are used to drinking light lagers and are even a bit wary of dark beers, at least until they taste Kaldi Dark. As mentioned – the Kaldi beers are brewed by Czech traditions, dated from 1842. Kaldi Dark is brewed using 3 different types of Czech hops.

Kaldi Dark is unpasteurized with no added sugar or preservatives. You can get Kaldi Dark in all liquor stores as some bars, but of course, the best place to get it is at the aforementioned Kaldi bar at downtown Reykjavík.

BRÍÓ Brío uses German hops, giving a very distinctive taste and a sweet aroma. Along with the hops, it uses Pilsen malt and under-fermentation yeast.

Bríó is the first beer produced by Borg Brugghús, a brewery that now produces several popular beers all year round along with seasonal beers for summer, Christmas and Easter. Bríó is a pilsner, a style of beer named after the city of Pilsen in the Czech Republic. This style of brewing first emerged in the middle of the 19th century and immediately became so popular that the majority of beer drunk today is in some way derived from the original pilsner. Brío, which has won many awards and prizes over the years, was originally brewed as the House Beer for Ölstofan and is available in liquor stores around the country as well as most bars in town.

EXPERIENCE

BEER EXPERIENCE

ÚLFUR The aroma of fresh citrus fruits, especially grapefruit, can also be found in the flavour, along with a strong bitterness that makes you crave another sip. Úlfur was the first Icelandic IPA (India Pale Ale) on the market. It’s of the same calibre as the best produced on the West Coast of the Unites States and surprised many Icelanders with its distinct flavour and aroma. Only American hops are used in the beer and the hops are added when boiled and after fermentation, a so called “dry hopping” technique. Icelanders took to the beer immediately and it has helped clear the way for smaller breweries to try new things.

Lava is a pitch black Ale, with its colour coming from dark-roasted malt, burnt in a similar way as coffee beans.

The brew master’s goal was to create a distinctive beer and the result was a beer that is unique in the Icelandic beer scene and quite possibly globally as well. Lava is like a good wine – it improves with age, reaching optimal quality after 3 years of storage in a cold place. Lava is a very smoked Imperial Stout, and considered by beer connoisseurs as one of the best Icelandic beers. It has received many international awards, including a gold medal at the “United States Open Beer Championship” – where it competed against over 1650 beers. Lava is available at the bigger liquor stores as well as on draught at speciality beer bars such as MicroBar.

GÆÐINGUR PALE ALE The Pale Ale from Gæðingur is a mixture of American and British Pale Ale. It’s ABV is quite low, at 4,5%, but it has the body of a much bigger beer. Bitterness and hops describe it aptly.

Gæðingur Pale Ale is unfiltered, so it has some residue at the bottom of the bottle.

The Pale Ale is the beer that cemented Gæðingur as a quality Microbrewery and is available at most liquor stores, as well as on draught at beer bars.

Find more articles like this at whatson.is/christmas/

LAVA

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All photos on this page © Brynjar Snær © travelwayoflife via flickr

THE TASTE OF ICELAND As Iceland is a tiny island way up north in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, it may surprise you to hear that the food culture here is amazingly vibrant and unique. There are some world-class restaurants, whose master chefs only use pristine ingredients, quaint little local diners and of course the unique and unusual traditional cuisine. One thing‘s for sure, there‘s no shortage of flavourful experiences for both the adventurous explorer and the demanding connoisseur.

MODERN ICELANDIC CUISINE Icelandic restaurants are sure to be a thrill. The long maligned Icelandic cuisine, for several years thought to consist mostly of boiling things, maybe adding a bit of salt, is going through a revival period. Most restaurants will offer some traditional Icelandic dishes, such as smoked lamb, or some twist on tradition, such as a reindeer burger. Many new restaurants are focusing on working with traditional Icelandic food and ingredients, updated for the modern age.

When it comes to food, Icelanders are always keen to try new things. The result is that modern day Iceland offers every kind of food you can imagine, and many that you probably can’t. Reykjavik offers any kind of international food you can imagine, sushi, thai, mexican, you name it. There are also several great steak houses and seafood restaurants, most of them crammed together in the city centre, meaning you can go from very high end to fast food in one block.

Because Icelandic farms are relatively traditional, locally sourced ingredients will be absolute first rate. We particularly recommend you try the lamb, which is in a league of its own.

THE ICELANDIC HOT DOG – AN UNUSUAL INSTITUTION A hot dog might not sound like the most specifically Icelandic thing in the world, but trust me, it is. At least the way we do it.

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First of all, they are available everywhere.

It should be comforting to know, that when you’re in Iceland, you’re never more than a few minutes away from your next hot dog.

Last but not least, the toppings. An Icelandic hot dog is supposed to be eaten “með öllu” (with everything). Everything, in this case, means raw chopped onions, deep-fried onions, ketchup, mustard and remoulade, a mayonnaise based sauce containing spices and pickles. If you order one “with everything” up north, it will also include “cocktail sauce,” a mixture of ketchup and mayo.

TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC FOOD

ICE (CREAM) LAND

Finally, don’t miss out on the traditional Icelandic food! These dishes, prepared the same way they Icelanders, somewhat appropriately, love ice have for centuries, are steeped in history and… cream. Other nations may claim they love ice other things. There are some flavours everyone cream, but their love doesn’t have the same can enjoy such as the smoked lamb, flat bread, resilience. In Iceland, people don’t just love ice slátur (basically liverwurst and blood pudding) cream on the hottest days of summer. They love and dried fish. At the far end of the spectrum it at any time, all year round, come rain or snow you find curiosities of acquired taste such as or sleet or storm. In fact, you can sometimes fermented shark, singed sheep’s head and pickled see the line at the ice cream parlours stretch ram’s testicles. These are also known as “things out into the street in a snowstorm. There is a you only eat so you can tell your friends at home long-standing debate in Reykjavík of which is Í S LE NS K I BARINN ING ÓLFSSTRÆ TI 1Ait”. A101shot REYKJAVÍK you did of Brennivin, an Icelandic better, Ísbúð Vesturbæjar or the one in Skeifan.

517 6767 “Black Death”, is Schnapps lovingly sími: nicknamed If you’re from the north,www.islenskibarinn.is the obvious winnerpostur@islenskibarinn.is is encouraged to wash down your meal, probably Brynjuís. No doubt. along with any memory you might have had of the whole affair.

INGÓLFSSTRÆTI 1A

1 0 1 R E Y K J AV Í K

www.islenskibarinn.is postur@islenskibarinn.is sími: 517 6767

Find more articles like this at whatson.is/christmas/

Fish • Lamb • Whale • Icelandic cuisine with a twist Icelandic music and nightlife Mix with the locals . .and all the Icelandic beers in one awsome place!

EXPERIENCE

Secondly, that flavour in the sausage, the one you can’t quite put your finger on? Yeah, that’s lamb, mixed in with the more international pork and beef filling. It makes all the difference.

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Pre-booking is required. Book online at bluelagoon.com

PRE-BOOKING IS REQUIRED Book online at bluelagoon.com

Iceland may not be the first country that comes to mind when you think of coffee, but Icelanders are actually big coffee drinkers. You will find plenty of small coffee shops or cafés on nearly every street corner in downtown Reykjavík.

It‘s hard to narrow our favourites down to just five places, but here are our top recommendations!

KAFFIFÉLAGIÐ SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 10

MOKKA KAFFI SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 3A

In 1958, a young Icelandic couple moved back to Reykjavík after studying in Italy, where they got to know European coffee culture. They decided to make it their own and to open a café in central Reykjavík, Café Mokka.

It was the first café in Iceland with an espresso machine. To this day, Mokka looks and feels exactly the same as it did when it opened, even holding on to the same old fashioned interior.

The coffee is fantastic, the Belgian waffles are to die for, and the café has also doubled as an art exhibition space since the beginning, so don’t forget to look up from your delicious cup of coffee to enjoy the art.

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KÁRASTÍGUR 1 BRAUTARHOLT 2

When you walk in you’ll notice their beautiful La Marzocco espresso machine and two Mazzer grinders, and realize that coffee at Reykjavík Roasters is serious business. It‘s a small and intimate coffee shop in the city centre where you’ll find first class coffee and refreshments. The coffee is roasted in their own roasteries by their own roasting masters. If you like the coffee, which you probably will, you can purchase whole beans to grind at home or have them ground there to your liking.

Reykjavík Roasters recently opened a lovely second location in Brautarholt 2.

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LAUGAVEGUR 27

This cosy coffee shop is one of Reykjavik‘s oldest cafés, located in a hidden basement on Laugavegur that’s frequented by avid loungers, coffee addicts, happy families and hungry travelers.

There’s nothing pretentious about it, it’s just a lovely old-fashioned house with homely atmosphere and generous coffee refills. If you want to try something really Icelandic with your coffee, you should order flatkökur, rye pancakes with sliced smoked lamb, or pönnukökur, traditional Icelandic pancakes with sugar, or with jam and whipped cream.

KAFFISLIPPURINN MÝRARGATA 2

This is quite a new addition to Reykjavík’s flora of cafés. Kaffislippurinn is located next to the Marina Hotel in the Old Harbour and it’s a quiet and cosy place to enjoy some really high-quality coffee. The first things you see when you walk in are artisan breads and cakes. You can get them to go or eat at the café while enjoying the view of the rough and industrial looking, yet charming, harbour area. The atmosphere is a perfect mixture of old and new with old fashioned museum-like objects mixed in with sleek interior design.

Find more articles like this at whatson.is/christmas/

It may be the smallest coffee shop in the country but it’s still one of the most popular.

Kaffifélagið offers a wide selection of coffee drinks made from Italian espresso beans that are grown in Ottolina, Milan. If you want to make your tastebuds squeal with delight, Kaffifélagið is where you should go. The place is usually filled with busy locals getting their take-away coffee. You can also stock up on coffee beans, DVDs and Icelandic music while you’re there.

REYKJAVIK ROASTERS

EXPERIENCE

THE REYKJAVIK COFFEE EXPERIENCE

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EXPERIENCE

NOTABLE EVENTS IN THE HISTORY OF ICELAND 16-18 Million BC: The Formation of Iceland.

Volcanic eruptions form the landmass known as Iceland.

871 AD: The Settlement of Iceland. Ingólfur Arnarson killed a man in Norway and fled to Iceland.

930 AD: Alþingi (the Icelandic parliament) established. Alþingi is the oldest parliamentary institution in the world that is still extant.

1000 AD: Conversion to Christianity, Discovery of America. Parliament decided everyone would be Christian or at least pretend to be. Leif “the Lucky” Ericson got lost and found America, didn’t like it and went home.

1262 AD: Iceland Submits to Norway. Civil war between powerful clans was finally resolved by forfeiting independence and submitting to Norwegian rule. This eventually led to Iceland winding up under Danish rule.

1550 AD: Reformation. A violent conflict between Catholics and Lutherans ended with the beheading of Catholic bishop Jón Arason.

1602: Monopoly (not the fun kind). The king of Denmark decided Icelanders could only trade with particular Danes, resulting in economic stagnation until the monopoly was abolished in 1786.

The 1750s: The Enlightenment and the Birth of Reykjavík. Industrialisation and modernisation started when “Sheriff” Skúli Magnússon started wool manufacturing in Aðalstræti 10.

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Jón Sigurðsson

1944 AD: Independence. Iceland declared independence while Denmark was too busy being invaded by Germany to protest.

20th century: The World Wars and modernization.

The turn of the century saw the first motor boat and car. The world wars and American occupation resulted in the first serious urbanisation and foreign cultural influence.

1955 AD: Nobel Prize. Halldór Laxness was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.

1980 AD: First Female President. The world’s first democratically elected female head of state, Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, took office.

2008 AD: Crash and Miraculous Recovery. Iceland’s banking system went spectacularly bankrupt. Since then, things have picked up surprisingly well.

2009 AD: First openly gay prime minister. The world’s first openly lesbian head of government,

Vigdís Finnbogadóttir

islenska/sia.is FLU 69193 05/14

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WHAT’S ON

© LEIFI, ICELAND SIGHTSEEING

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

ANSWERED BY A

NORTHERN LIGHTS Find more articles like this at whatson.is/northern-lights/

EXPERT!

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DO I NEED TO TAKE A TOUR OR SHOULD I JUST RENT A CAR AND DRIVE MYSELF? You can absolutely drive yourself: if the sky is clear and the lights are out, you should be able to see them. However, a tour has the following benefits over a car: »» Most tours come with a free do-over if you don’t see anything, but if you rent a car you don’t get to go again for free. »» The guide literally makes a living finding the

lights, every night, so they know where to go, and the company loses money if they don’t find them. I have no statistics to back it up, but I’m pretty sure they have a better chance to see them. »» You get to let someone else worry about driving the car in the dark, and you can focus on looking out for the lights and figuring out your camera. »» It’s a great chance to make new friends on your tour!

WHAT’S ON

HOW LONG SHOULD I STAY IN ICELAND TO TRY TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

tour, you should go out at the earliest possibility, since then you have more opportunities for a doover if you don’t see them.

I usually advise people to come for at least a week, since you’re not likely to get bad weather for 7 days straight, but sometimes it will be cloudy for 2-3 days. Plus there are plenty of exciting tours and activities to take during the day so you won’t be bored!

SHOULD I GO UP TO THE NORTH OF ICELAND?

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT NIGHT WILL BE A GOOD ONE? You check the designated Aurora forecast. Yes, that’s a real thing. Check out our guide to reading the forecast on page 33. Still, to a certain extent, you never know and if it’s your last night, you should always take the chance. If you’re taking a

Not to see the Northern Lights (but you should go for many other reasons!). In Iceland, you are already in the North, so you don’t get a better chance of seeing the lights by going farther north. Even though the night is longer up north, the more relevant thing is cloud cover.

DO I NEED TO BE HIGH UP, LIKE ON A MOUNTAIN? No. The distance to the Auroras is about 60-200 miles. The height of the mountain is not relevant unless it helps you get to more darkness.

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WHAT’S ON WHAT’S THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

Find more articles like this at whatson.is/christmas/

November-December has become a very popular time to come on the Aurora hunt.

December is by far the darkest month, meaning more hours to spot the lights, and the weather is often worse in January-February, with more rainfall, and therefore more clouds, covering the lights.

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WHAT’S THE BEST TIME OF NIGHT TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS? There’s no telling. Sometimes they come out at 9 pm, sometimes 5 am, sometimes they stay for 5 minutes, sometimes 5 hours. I’ve heard it’s

better to go between 8pm and midnight, but I’ve never heard any science behind it. You basically just have to decide how much you value your sleep and then camp out as long as you can.

BUT HOW?

GOING BY BUS: CHEAP & EFFECTIVE A Northern Lights tour by bus is a good way to see the lights If you don’t mind having a lot of people around you and don’t mind the bus ride. If the lights aren’t out, this tour won’t exactly thrill you, but it’s the cheapest option to see the lights and gets the job done!

GOING BY BOAT: A GREAT EXPERIENCE, EVEN IF YOU MISS SEEING THE LIGHTS Seeing the Northern Lights above the open sea is a splendid sight, and even if you miss the lights, the boat ride in the night and the view of the city lights is still going to be a great experience. A good option for people who want to be certain of a good experience, even if the lights are shy.

The Northern Lights are an unforgettable sight, but some people still want to get photos, if only to show the people back home. If you’re one of those people read this carefully DO have a relatively good camera with you that allows for easy and quick change of settings.

WHAT’S ON

NORTHERN LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY DOs AND DON’Ts

DON’T try to use the camera on your phone. It won’t work.

DO have your ISO set to at least 800 and your aperture as low as it goes.

DON’T forget your tripod! However little you think you move while waiting for your camera to take your picture, believe me, you always move a little and it’s enough to make your photos blurry.

DO keep your shutter speed anywhere between 5 seconds to 30 seconds, although the optimal would be between 5-20 (30 is for very faint lights, basically).

DON’T go by boat! If you’re intent on getting photos, at least. The movement of the boat makes it impossible.

DO consider using continuous shooting so that while shooting the lights you don’t have to keep staring at them through your camera DON’T focus solely on your photographs and forget to be in the moment. You don’t see the Northern Lights every day!

Book your Northern Lights tour now on whatson.is or at the What’s On Tourist Information Center!

GOING BY SUPER-JEEP: C-C-C -COMBO TOURS! EXCLUSIVE & THRILLING Going in a specially modified jeep with to hunt for the lights is a thrilling experience.

The small number of people gives you better mobility so it’s easier for the guide to follow his guts to try to find the lights. It also gives you better access to the knowledgeable guide and is a more personal experience overall.

Seeing the Northern Lights is a magical experience by itself, but there’s always a chance the Aurora Borealis won’t show up or even that clouds might show up instead. To make sure you don’t waste a day of your trip, why not combining a Northern Lights tour with another activity such as going on a glacier hike, getting a lobster dinner, or even making a trip of it and drive to the stunning glacial lagoon, Jökulsárlón. That way your time on the tour is always well spent and no one leaves without having a new and exciting experience!

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By Rögnvaldur “Reggie” Guðmundsson

WHAT’S ON

HOW TO READ THE NORTHERN LIGHTS FORECAST IN ICELAND People are often confused about the aurora forecast (en.vedur.is) published by the Iceland Meteorological Institute. It’s no wonder, if you’re not used to looking at this kind of thing, so here’s a guide to reading the forecast.

WHAT DO THE COLOURS MEAN? On this map, WHITE means NO CLOUDS, and DARK GREEN means VERY CLOUDY. The shades of green indicate if it’s more, or less, cloudy.

So, as you can see, on this particular day, there are no clouds in the North of Iceland, heavy clouds in the East, and light clouds in the South.

WHY DO THE CLOUDS STOP ME SEEING THE NORTHERN LIGHTS? The lights are active very high up in the sky. 60-200 miles in fact! The clouds are lower down, so they get in the way and block your view. The sky doesn’t have to be completely clear though, if the cloud cover is light, all the tours will take off anyway. You can see the lights between the clouds.

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WHAT’S ON

If you find the whole thing confusing, there are two things you should know: if you book a tour, the tour company will cancel the tour if the forecast is really bad. You will be entitled to a refund, so there is really no risk involved. Secondly, you can just come into our office any time and we’ll help you figure it all out for free!

HOW ACTIVE ARE THE LIGHTS? On the right side of the picture, you can see the word “Aurora forecast” and underneath you see the numbers 1-9. One of the numbers is highlighted with a mustard colour, on this picture it’s the number “2”.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN? The number is a COMBINATION of how PROBABLE the lights are to come out at all, and how ACTIVE they will be when they do come out. What it doesn’t say is exactly what time they will come, or how long they will stay. They could come out at 10 pm or 1 am, and they could stay for 5 minutes or 5 hours.

There are many tours taking you out of the bright city lights for a better chance of seeing the Aurora.

These tours will be CANCELLED if there is no chance of seeing the lights. You can rely on the wisdom of the major operators, first of all because there is a high standard of professionalism in Iceland, but more importantly because they lose money if they take you out needlessly – most of them promise to take you out again for free if you don’t see anything.

Check out the Northern Lights forecast online at http://en.vedur.is/weather/forecasts/aurora/

THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND IN REGARDS TO THE NORTHERN LIGHTS FORECAST: »» The scientists at the meteorology institute are very cautious with their activity prediction. It almost never goes above 6 or 7. I’ve seen a 7 predicted maybe three times, and a 9 TWICE. So an activity of 2 or 3 is actually fantastic, and 4 or 5 is MIND BLOWING. »» The cloud prediction is a lot more reliable than the activity prediction.

If the sky is clear and the prediction is 1, you have a chance to see the lights, and you should take it. »» It’s not an exact science. A good forecast increases the likelihood of you seeing the lights, but it won’t guarantee it. Also the further in advance, the less reliable the Northern Lights forecast so if you’re looking 4 days ahead, you want to check again on the day. It also means that even if the forecast is terrible, keep your eyes to the sky, because you never know. »» It’s still surprisingly exact. I’m constantly amazed by how accurately these scientists can predict the cloud cover, including where the clouds are and what time of night they move. So for the most part; do trust the forecast.

This is what you need to know: 85% of the time the Northern Lights forecast is 2 or 3, and even if it’s just 1, it’s still worth going out. If the tours are going, you should go!

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Choose a card that suits your stay: 24, 48 or 72 hours

the city card #reykjavikloves

Ask for the Reykjavík City Card at the official tourist information centre in Aðalstræti 2. www.visitreykjavik.is

WHAT’S ON

GLJÚFRASTEINN

LAXNESS MUSEUM Gljúfrasteinn was the home of writer Halldór Laxness (the winner of The Nobel Prize in Literature 1955) and his family for more than half a century. The house is now a museum, where the author’s home is preserved just as it was when he lived and worked there.

A number of events are hosted throughout the year. Every Sunday during the summertime there are concerts in the living room at 4pm.

The museum is open tuesdays to fridays from 10am – 16pm.

Audio guides of the house are available in Icelandic, English, German, Swedish and Danish, and an illustrated guide in French.

Gljúfrasteinn-Laxness museum is located in the valley of Mosfellsdalur on the way to Þingvellir National Park, only 20 minute drive from Reykjavik.

Find more articles like this at whatson.is

For more information, go to www.gljufrasteinn.is.

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THE STEAK HOUSE

Steikhúsið simply means „The Steak House” and that underlines our goal, to focus solely on steaks.

The Steak house is in the middle of Reykjavík, opposite the old harbor which has recently formed into a lively neighborhood of restaurants, cafes and artisan stores and work shops.

When you wisit us, remember to try our “28 days” tendered meat.

The heart of the place is a coal oven from Mibrasa, Spain. It is only fitting that we use coal for grilling and baking The Building housed a blacksmith and metal works in years gone by.

THE KITCHEN IS OPEN FROM 17:00 TILL LATE — VISIT WWW.STEAK.IS

Booking: +354 561 1111 & steik@steik.is

THE FINEST BEER & WHISKY SELECTION IN DOWNTOWN REYKJAVÍK

Live Music Every Night | Live Sports on 5 Big Screens

YOUR TICKET TO ADVENTURE

SUPER JEEPS -------------------------

MONSTERTRUCK -------------------------

SNOWMOBILES

MOUNTAINEERS.IS Tel: +354 580 9900 ice@mountaineers.is www.mountaineers.is

WHATSON.IS On our website, whatson.is, the What’s On Team works hard to consistently deliver fresh and fun stuff for everyone to read. Here is a sneak peek at some of the exciting subjects featured on our website.

6 WEIRD THINGS ICELANDERS DO

WHAT’S ON

WRITINGS FROM

By María Rut Ágústsdóttir A tiny nation living on an island cut off from the rest of the world is bound to get a little eccentric. María is here to explain to you why we’re like this.

READ BLOG AT WHATSON.IS/HISTORY-CULTURE

SKÁL! – ICELANDIC HAPPY HOUR, DRINKING HABITS AND NIGHTLIFE By Ágústa Rúnarsdóttir I’m guessing you’ve probably heard about the crazy Reykjavík nightlife. It can be a bit confusing, so let Ágústa be your guide to going out, Icelandic-style.

THE HIGHLIGHTS OF ICELANDIC NATURE IN JUST ONE DAY By Ágnes Viktória Jávorszky Viktória has been checking out all the tours we have to offer. See what she thought of the Essential Iceland tour, which claims to show you the best Iceland has to offer in just one day.

Read more at www.whatson.is/blog/

READ BLOG AT WHATSON.IS/FOOD-DRINK

READ BLOG AT WHATSON.IS/THINGS-TO-DO

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WHAT’S ON

TWELFTH NIGHT – THE HIDDEN PEOPLE HOLIDAY By Ásdís Ólafsdóttir When Christmas and New Year’s Eve just isn’t enough, what do you do? You add another holiday in early January, of course! Ásdís explains what Twelfth Night in Iceland is all about.

READ BLOG AT WHATSON.IS/HISTORY-CULTURE

VIKING HISTORY AT THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION By Ágnes Viktória Jávorszky Want to see the Settlement Exhibition but you’re not sure if it’s worth your time? Read Viktória’s review and see if it can’t help you make up your mind.

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Check out the What’s On blog archives at whatson.is/blog

Read more at www.whatson.is/blog/

READ BLOG AT WHATSON.IS/HISTORY-CULTURE

Ice Cream • Hot Cocoa • Waffles Bada Bing, Laugavegur 4, 101 Reykjavík

Party Every Night. Cocktails!

Live Music Every Night!

50 different kinds of beer.

Live Sports Coverage Kitchen open from 11.00.

Ribs, burgers, chicken wings!

LIFE IS SHORT - DRINK EARLY AUSTURSTRAETI 8 • REYKJAVIK

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WHAT’S ON HOUSE 6

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Check out the article The Reykjavik Sight Experience on pages 12-13 for more information about the places numbered here.

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REYKJAVIK CITY MAP

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WHAT’S ON

THE REYKJAVIK MUSEUM WALK Reykjavík’s history reaches back for more than a thousand years and the city is rich with culture. This heritage can be experienced in the museums scattered throughout the city. To make life easier for you, here is a proposed Museum Walk that covers the best ones in downtown Reykjavik, all within a walking distance.

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VOLCANO HOUSE

The museum gives visitors an idea of the life in Iceland, where volcanoes a n d e a r t h q u a ke s a re a constant threat. Icelandic n a t u re i s i n a st a te o f constant flux, earthquakes occur daily somewhere in Iceland, and volcanic eruptions are always a possibility. Volcano House lets you experience the world of Icelanders by coming as close as possible to experiencing an eruption or earthquake for yourself. They also have an in-house cinema where they offer two back-toback documentaries on historical volcanic eruptions.

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REYKJAVÍK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY

The museum’s main objective is to present both historical and contemporary photography in an artistic, social and cultural context, as well as nurture public and scholarly interest in photography and its culture. The collection’s themes are diverse, you can find family photographs, photos from portrait studios, industrial- and advertising photographs, press photography, landscape photographs and more.

Find more articles like this at whatson.is

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THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

The nation’s most precious treasures are kept and displayed at The National Museum of Iceland. The museum was established on the 24th of February in 1863 and it’s aim is to increase and relay knowledge of Icelandic cultural heritage from the country’s settlement until now. At the museum you will find a permanent exhibition of objects that provide insight into Icelandic history and culture as well as temporary exhibitions highlighting specific eras or aspects of the Icelandic cultural heritage.

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THE NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

The principal art museum of Iceland, established in 1884.

Its art collection consists mainly of 19th and 20th century art works. In its possession are many of the keystones of Icelandic art history, as well as a growing collection of works from other countries. The National Gallery’s main role is to collect, preserve, research and exhibit Icelandic art and offer education about it. There is also a considerable emphasis laid on showing Icelandic art in context with international art.

REYKJAVÍK ART MUSEUM

Hafnarhús serves as the m u s e u m ’s i n s t i t u t e o f contemporary art, where new developments in art are explored through d i ve r s e ex h i b i t i o n s o f Icelandic and international artists. An exhibition of paintings by well-known pop artist Erró is a permanent feature. Don’t forget to stop by the Hafnarhús shop for postcards, art posters and books published by the museum.

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THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION

Archaeological remains were excavated in Aðalstræti in 2001, which turned out to be the oldest relics of human habitation in Reykjavík.The relics are now preserved at their original location and are the focal point of the Settlement Exhibition. The construction of Viking Age buildings is explained using multimedia technology and computer technology is used to give an impression of what life was like in the hall. This one is open late, until 8 pm.

©2013 GOOGLE

The Wonders of the Volcanoes Volcano House features two documentaries that focus on the most famous eruptions of Iceland, including Vestmannaeyjar in 1973 and Eyjafjallajökull in 2010, as well as talking about the causes and effects of Icelandic volcanology in general.

The Volcano House includes a FREE “hands on” geology exhibition featuring many different mineral samples, such as lava from the 2014 eruption of Bárðabunga and ash from the eruption of Eyjafjallajökull.

Reviews from tripadvisor “Must-go when touring the museums of Reykjavik”

- Nikeflies, Connecticut, November 22, 2015

“A must stop for geology buffs!”

- sfrarymt, Montana, October 3, 2015

“Volcano eruptions are a way of life for Iceland”

- FastEd1972, Texas, November 21, 2015

“Highlight of our time in Reykjavik!”

- alexa011, Wisconsin, October 2, 2015

VOLCANO HOUSE

Volcano Cinema and Geological Exhibition in Downtown Reykjavik, next to the Old Harbour.

Open Every Day from 10:00-21:00 / Show time every hour, on the hour.

Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavík | (+354) 555 1900 | www.volcanohouse.is

XMAS EXPERIENCE

With so much to see and do, why not rent a car with audio guided day tour GPS system?

Perfect day tours for the independent traveller My Way is your own audio day tour consisting of a suitable car for you and your friends together with an audio guide programmed into the GPS system. Sold in cooperation with Avis and Budget car rentals.

My Way audio guided daytours exsamples: Reykjanes Peninsula

Reykjavík – Gardskagi, Hafnir, Blue Lagoon, Kleifarvatn – Hafnarfjördur Volcanic wonders and some of our country’s most unforgettable sights.

The Reykjanes peninsula tour offers an extreme variety of landscapes, lava fields and geothermal activity,

MIN: 4HRS

APX: 180KM

Golden Circle

Reykjavík – Gullfoss & Geysir Iceland’s most popular day tour, The Golden Circle, a route which encompasses many of Iceland’s most famous landmarks.

This tour includes some of the best known historical sites and natural phenomena in Iceland.

MIN: 5HRS APX: 250KM

Only available from: &

To book your own day tour • Contact Avis, tel. 591 4000 or Budget, tel. 562 6060.

• Ask the hotel or next information centre to book it for you.

• Visit the My Way website mywayiniceland.is

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South Shore

Reykjavík – South Shore to Vík – Reykjavík You drive along the south coast of Iceland passing by glaciers and volcanoes, black sand coastline and moss-covered lava fields as far as the charming village Vík í Mýrdal.

MIN: 8HRS

APX: 400KM

EVENT CALENDAR

VOLCANO HOUSE WONDERS OF VOLCANOES The Volcano House includes a FREE “hands on” geology exhibition featuring many different mineral samples, such as lava from the 2014 eruption of Bárðabunga and ash from the 2010 eruption of Eyjafjallajökull.

The Cinema shows an Emmynominated documentary in English, every hour, on the hour from 10am to 9pm. It focuses on some of the most famous eruptions of Iceland, as well as talking about the causes and effects of Icelandic volcanology in general. The movie is also available in different languages by pre-arrangement, at 9am every day. »» The Volcano House is fun and educational for people of all ages, and kids are especially welcome. (Free for 0-12) WONDERS OF VOLCANOES

»» A fantastic place to start your stay in Iceland, so you know what you’re looking at as you travel around. (Or at the end of your visit, to make sense of everything you’ve seen). »» The Volcano House is a great stop on your Museum Day. After standing and reading for hours, it’s nice to sit down and watch a movie.

For more information see www.volcanohouse.is

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM FEMALE IDOLS To mark the centennial of women in Iceland winning the right to vote, Sigurjón Ólafsson Museum has created an exhibition of classical portrait sculptures of women produced

FEMALE IDOLS

by Sigurjón. Along with those works, other works by the artist are on display. The works are carved in stone and wood and they focus on the female image in Sigurjón Ólafsson’s art – Das Ewig-Weibliche – taking on the image of the goddess.

Sigurjón Ólafsson (1908−1982) is among the best known portrait sculptors in the Nordic countries. He created over 200 portrait sculptures, mostly of

men who held important roles in society. Ólafsson’s female portraits are less well known, apart from a portrait sculpture of the artist’s mother, Guðrún GísladÓttir, created in 1938.

For this work he was awarded the much sought after prize; Eckersberg Medal in 1939.

Copies of the portrait belong to the collections of three state museums located in the Nordic countries.

Find more events at whatson.is

»» Volcano House is a good late-night activity (last show at 21:00), a good replacement if your tour is cancelled, or if the weather is bad (it’s always nice and warm inside).

Drop by any time!

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EVENT CALENDAR

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART KEEPERS Museum collections are collections. They are made up by a number of collected objects and sources that have some meaning to the museum and usually more than one. But how are the objects collected?

What reasons lie behind certain objects being collected and where do the boundaries lie

when collecting objects for a collection?

The exhibition KEEPERS focuses on the Museum of Design and Applied Art’s collection. It will display the diversity that defines the collection while highlighting the fact that the museum’s collection is almost entirely composed of gifts. The title KEEPERS refers both to the objects themselves, the ones worth keeping, as well as the

Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/museums

KEEPERS casts a light on the constant work carried out by the museum staff: to collect samples from Icelandic design history in various ways. The exhibition will not remain the same but rather change along with the museum as its collection of keepers continues to grow.

ICELAND IS SO CERAMIC – A RETROSPECTIVE OF STEINUNN MAGNÚSDÓTTIR’S WORKS

KEEPERS

48

people who preserved them, kept them and eventually so generously gave them to the museum for safekeeping.

Steinunn, who lives and works on her art at Hulduhólar in Mosfellsbær, has had a very long and prosperous career and has for a long time been renowned for her elegant yet various contributions to Icelandic ceramic art.

Steinunn’s works can be found in many places, including public museums and private collections in Iceland and abroad.

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN YEARNING FOR SPACE

YEARNING FOR SPACE

ICELAND IS SO CERAMIC

The exhibition presents modernist dreams of the future, generally relating to the dramatic technological advances of the 20th century.

Works by Ásmundur Sveinsson (1893-1982) are shown along with pieces by Gerður Helgadóttir (1928-1975), Jón Gunnar Árnason (1931-1989) and Sigurjón Ólafsson (19081982). Most of the works date from the 1950s and 60s, when space exploration began in earnest, and many reference the Space Race which was at its height during the period. The exhibition raises the question of whether the visions of the future in that period influenced the artists‘ spatial and formal perceptions, and whether science fiction is reflected in their art.

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Thermal pools a and d baths in Reykjavik a are e a source of health, rrelaxation elaxation and purenes pureness. s.

Thermal pools a and d baths in Reykjavik a are e a source of health, rrelaxation elaxation and purenes pureness. s.

All of the city´s swimming pools have several hot pots with temperatures ranging from All of the city´s swimming pools have several hot pots with temperatures ranging from 37˚ to 42˚C (98˚–111˚F). The pools are kept at an average temperature of 29˚ C (84˚ F).

37˚ to 42˚C (98˚–111˚F). The pools are kept at an average temperature of 29˚ C (84˚ F).

Tel: +354 411 5000 • www.spacity.is Tel: +354 411 5000 • www.spacity.is

*Admission February 2014. Price is subject to change ge

e c e r c u r u o s o AA s eaalltthh h e h f oof

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Reykjavik's Thermal Pools Reykjavik's Thermal Pools

THE MAKING OF ERRÓ 1955-1964 An exploration of the development of the artist during the years 1955- 1964, a complex and spectacular period, both in his art and in European art history, when he was the first artist to create “collage paintings.”

The exhibition illustrates in broad terms how Erró gradually moved away from expressionism and started to make collages, which he then reproduced in paint on canvas.

At that time he also made various visual experiments with painting, text-collages, assemblages and happenings.

The works were made against a background of the colourful culture and art world of Paris, and later New York, where he became familiar with the consumer/media society of the United States, and its stimulating art world.

MAKING OF ERRÓ

EVENT CALENDAR

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS

MONIKA GRZYMALA: ENVOY From January 15th Monika Grzymala (b. 1970) has developed a unique, unusual approach to contemporary drawing and installation art. She is known for threedimensional drawings which she creates in the exhibition space. Curator is Ingibjörg Jónsdóttir.

MONIKA GRZYMALA

From January 15th We are born with an enormous capacity for learning, but there is ample evidence to suggest that most of this potential declines in school. We don’t learn to learn, and therefore learn less while, in fact, we need to learn more. Inspired by this paradox the exhibition Back to the Sandbox: Art and Radical Pedagogy features

BACK TO THE SANDBOX

the work of artists who see education and learning as a critical field in today’s world.

Back to the Sandbox includes the work of Luis Camnitzer, James Duignan, Priscila

Fernandes, Michael Joaquin Grey, Ane Hjort Guttu, Markus Kayser, Eva Koťátková, James Mollison, Palle Nielsen, Petr Nikl, Renzo Piano and The Society for a Merrier Present.

Find more events at whatson.is

BACK TO THE SANDBOX: ART AND RADICAL PEDAGOGY

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EVENT CALENDAR Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/museums 52

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION SETTLEMENT SAGAS The central feature of this new exhibition are the nation‘s greatest treasures, ancient manuscripts that are usually kept under lock at The Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic studies. This is a temporary exhibition and a rare opportunity to see these culturally valuable manuscripts that describe the Settlement in Reykjavik.

The Settlement Sagas exhibition is open daily until 20:00.

THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND THE MAKING OF A NATION - HERITAGE AND HISTORY IN ICELAND The exhibition is intended to provide insight into the history of the Icelandic nation from the Settlement to the present day. The aim is to cast light on the Icelanders’ past by placing the cultural heritage preserved by the National Museum in a historical context, guided by the question: What makes a nation?

REYKJAVÍK MARITIME MUSEUM

this natural harbor was one of the country’s main fisheries and trading centers, and over the years, Reykjavík Harbor grew to become Iceland’s largest port.

FROM POVERTY TO ABUNDANCE The exhibition portrays the Icelandic fisheries at the turn of the 20th century, and realistically depicts the lives of Icelandic fishermen. During this time, tenant fishermen resided in modest coastal cottages during the fishing season. On display is Farsæll, an original four-person rowboat built around 1900 in the Westman Islands.

National Museum of Iceland, National Gallery of Iceland, Natural History Museum, National Archives of Iceland, National and University Library of Iceland and Árni Magnússon Institute for Icelandic Studies. Points of view offers an innovative guide to a nation’s cultural history exhibiting thousandyear-old treasures, e.g. manuscripts, along with the latest in Icelandic art.

THE CULTURE HOUSE POINTS OF VIEW The exhibition offers visitors a chance to delve into the collections of six different cultural institutions, the

MAKING OF A NATION

POINTS OF VIEW

THE HISTORY OF SAILING This exhibition recounts Iceland’s maritime history and the growth of Reykjavík Harbor. Iceland’s settlement can be traced to Nordic seafarers sailing the North Atlantic. The first settler, Ingólfur Arnarson, chose the area that is now Reykjavík to make his home. It was a natural haven, with the inlet at Grandagarður being well sheltered for pulling boats safely ashore. For centuries,

SETTLEMENT SAGAS

Make ake ssure iM ure itt’s ’s E Elld diin ng g!!

Call us on +354 519 5000 Call us on +354 519 5000 ororvisit visitwww.elding.is www.elding.is elding@elding.is

ELDING WHALE WATCHING from Reykjavík

SEA ANGLING

PUFFIN WATCHING

EXPRESS WHALE & PUFFIN

Elding Whale Watching schedule – all year round

VIÐEY ISLAND

WHALE WATCHING EL-01 / EL-02 / EL-03

Jan-Feb

Mar 9:00

Apr 9:00

May 9:00

Jun 9:00 10:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 17:00* 17:00 20:30**

Jul Aug Sept 9:00 9:00 9:00 10:00 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 14:00 17:00 17:00 17:00* 20:30

from Reykjavík 13:00

13:00

13:00

Oct 9:00

Nov-Dec

13:00

13:00

Elding Sea Angling EL-04

– 1 May to 31 August at 11:00 and 15:30

Take part in an adventure at sea with an unforgettable * From 15 May to 15 September **trip From into 15 June to 31 July the world of whales and sea birds all year round.

ENNEMM / SÍA / NM69175

Elding Whale Watching schedule – all year round

NORTHERN LIGHTS CRUISE EL-01 / EL-02 / EL-03

Jan-Mar

Apr 9:00

May 9:00

Jun Jul 9:00 9:00 01 Sep-30 Sep: 22:0010:00 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 01 Oct-14 Mar: 21:00 14:00 14:00 17:00* 17:00 17:00 15 Mar-15 Apr: 22:0020:30** 20:30

Aug Sept Oct Nov-Dec 9:00 9:00 9:00 10:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 17:00*

* From 15 May to 15 September from Reykjavík Old Harbour ** From 15 June to 31 August

Environmental Award Icelandic Tourist Board

www.elding.is www.elding.is

Elding Puffin Watching EL-05 – 15 May to 15 August at 9:30, 12:00 and 15:00 NEW

Express Whale and Puffin tour (RIB-boat) EL-06

– 15 May to 30 September at 10:00, 12:00, 14:00 and 16:00

There’s a cosy little movie theatre on the Old Harbour waterfront in the Reykjavik Centre that’s simply called The Cinema. It offers a wide variety of documentaries, made by the renowned Icelandic filmmaker Valdimar Leifsson, on everything from volcanoes to the Northern Lights and glaciers. It has an impressive selection of scheduled shows and it’s also possible to book specially a number of others, including films in German.

Kristbergur has devoted himself for the most part to the painting from the beginning of the of the 1980’s.

He came forward as a part of a wave of artists that are linked to the new painting, a powerful new take on the

painting that challanged and broke traditions. Kristbergur Pétursson (f. 1962) has developed his art thowards the abstract painting where colorflow and space seem to seek inspiration to dark nature sceens.

HAFNARBORG EIRÍKUR SMITH Until January 17th..

Oil and watercolor paintings made since 1982 and until today will be on display.

Eiríkur Smith (b.1925) has had a long and successful career. Hafnarborg preserves many pieces by Eiríkur but in 1990 he gave the museum about four hundred pieces by himself, oil-paintings, watercolor-paintings and drawings. Eiríkur’s career can be divided into chapters that are different from each other but at the same time they are all important parts of Icelandic art history.

THE CINEMA

EVENT CALENDAR

THE CINEMA

RAGNHILDUR JÓHANNS From January 9th.

ICELAND IS SO CERAMIC YEARNING FOR SPACE

Find more events at whatson.is

In January 2016 an exhibition of new works by Ragnhildur Jóhanns will open in Hafnarborg’s Sverrissalur.

Ragnhildur focuses on the language in her art creation where she strives to create visual poems in the form of sculptures, collages, drawings or prints to give a few examples.

ICELAND IS SO CERAMIC

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KRISTBERGUR PÉTURSSON From January 9th.

New works by the artist Kristbergur Pétursson will be displayed in this exhibition.

EVENT CALENDAR Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/ec 56

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND NÍNA SÆMUNDSSON - ART IN A CHANGING WORLD Nína Sæmundsson (1892–1965) was the first Icelandic woman to work as a professional sculptor. She was born into the farming society of 19th century Iceland, where women of working-class background had limited opportunities. Few women were able to create their own destiny and let their dreams come true, so the start of Sæmundsson’s career feels like a fairy tale. She realised her dream to become an artist and during the twenties of the twentieth century she lived in the art capitals of the western world, Rome, Paris and New York. Her story is a story of great victories, but also dramatic losses that influenced her life to a great extent.

From the start, Sæmundsson was strong-willed, and had a burning passion for art. Early on, she developed her classical style that she remained faithful to long into her career, and in her works she combined the magnificent and the intimate.

The upright human became one of her main themes, along with the busts that she specialized in.

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY GUNNAR RÚNAR ÓLAFSSON – RETROSPECTIVE Until January 10th.

In the exhibition Gunnar Rúnar Ólafsson – Retrospective, the works of one of the best known Icelandic photographer, Gunnar Rúnar Ólafsson (1917-1965) are on show. The exhibition includes new manually developed photographs, shot in Iceland in the period 1947 to 1964. In addition, some selected movie trailers from the National Film Archive of Iceland are also shown.

GUNNAR RÚNAR

PETER HOLLIDAY

PETER HOLLIDAY: WHERE THE LAND RISES Until January 26th.

Peter Holliday´s latest body of work Where the Land Rises captures the stark coastal terrain of the Vestmannaeyjar archipelago in southern Iceland, a restless landscape forged by an intense geological violence that originates deep within our planet. On 23rd January 1973, Heimaey, the only inhabited island of Vestmannaeyjar, suddenly erupted, sending columns of lava into the sky from a mile-long fissure. The eruption of Eldfell – as the 42 year old volcano is now known – led to a five-month evacuation of the island, destroying many homes and violently altering the geography of Heimaey.

Nevertheless, the landscape of Heimaey is revered by

NÍNA SÆMUNDSSON

its inhabitants as a home; an island refuge in an often unforgiving environment.

People who exist between a landscape gone and a landscape to come.landscape to come

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EVENT CALENDAR

NOTABLE FESTIVITIES & RECURRING EVENTS NOTABLE DAYS IN JANUARY

BIG EVENTS IN JANUARY

NÝÁRSDAGUR (NEW YEARS DAY) JANUARY 1ST The first day of the year is most often celebrated by sleeping in after all the partying done the night before and general cosyness.

THE ICELANDIC PHOTOGRAPHY FESTIVAL JANUARY 14TH-16TH Ten exhibitions by international and Icelandic artists will open in connection with the festival. They will e.g. take place at the Reykjavík Museum of Photography, Gerðarsafn Art Museum, The National Museum of Iceland, Kex Hostel, Reykjavíkurtork in Grófarhús, Gallery Njálsgata and Listamenn Gallery on Skúlagata.

Read more about these exhibitions at whatson.is/ec

ÞRETTÁNDINN (THE TWELFTH NIGHT) JANUARY 6TH The last day of christmas is celebrated with bonfires and fireworks. More info at whatson.is/christmas.

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FIRST DAY OF THORRI JANUARY 22ND Bóndadagur marks the beginning of Thorri, that wonderful time of year when Icelanders eat a lot of weird food. More info at whatson.is/thorri.

REYKJAVIK INTERNATIONAL DAYS JANUARY 21ST-24TH @ SKAUTAHÖLLIN More information at whatson.is DARK MUSIC DAYS JANUARY 28TH-30TH @ HARPA More information at whatson.is

EVENTS FROM WHATSON.IS/EC FINNISH STORYHOUR

ICELAND SYMPHONY: OPEN REHEARSAL

NEW YEARS CONCERT 2016

THE CHAMBER MUSIC SOCIETY #4

ICELAND SYMPHONY: OPEN REHEARSAL

EIVØR PÁLSDÓTTIR

THE VINTAGE CARAVAN

FREE CONCERT WITH THE ICELANDIC FLUTE ENSAMBLE

January 3rd @ Nordic House January 7th, 8th & 9th @ Harpa January 7th @ Harpa

January 9th @ Gaukurinn PREDATOR

January 21st @ Harpa

January 24th @ Harpa January 29th @ Harpa

January 29th @ National Gallery of Iceland

January 13th @ Tjarnarbíó

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND EVEN MORE EVENTS, VISIT US ONLINE AT WHATSON.IS/EC YOU CAN ALSO SEND US YOUR EVENTS AT WHATSON.IS/EC/ADD OR EVENTS@WHATSON.IS

Meet some of Iceland’s finest designers Epal Harpa / Epal Skeifan 6 / Epal Design Kringlan / 568 7733

www.epal.is

ART & CULTURE

ÁRBÆR OPEN AIR MUSEUM

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM This unique museum was founded in 1957 in order to give visitors a tangible sense of Reykjavík’s past. It comprises a village-like collection of over twenty “homes,” each creating a very interesting exhibition in itself.

Kistuhylur, Reykjavik 411-6304 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Guided tours daily at 13.00 or by appointment.

VIÐEY ISLAND

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Unspoiled nature reigns on island of Viðey, which has a unique place in Icelandic history. Birdlife abounds on the island, while out­stand­i ng works of modern art also make their mark.

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

Viðey Reykjavik 533-5055 reykjavikcitymuseum.is

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REYKJAVIK CITY LIBRARY

FREE ENTRY Looking for a place to hang out, browse the internet, get access to Wi-Fi or meet the Reykjavik locals? Then Reykjavik City Library is the perfect place to visit. Have a seat and dip into the latest magazine or relax while checking out their great selection of books.

Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavik 411-6100 | borgarbokasafn.is Hours: Mon-Thu 10-19, Fri 11-18, Sat & Sun 13-17

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM Experience Viking-Age Reykjavik at the Settlement Exhibition.

Multimedia techniques bring Reykjavik’s past to life, providing visitors with insights into how people lived in the Viking Age, and what the environment looked like to the settlers.

Aðalstræti 16, Reykjavik 411-6370 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 9-20

REYKJAVIK MARITIME MUSEUM

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM It is impossible to truly get to know Iceland without getting to know its fishing history. The museum’s main exhibitions illustrate the development from rowing boats to m o d e r n t raw l e r s a n d t h e construction of Reykjavik harbour.

Grandagarður 8, Reykjavik 411-6340 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY

THE EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM

Tryggvagata 15, Reykjavik 411-6390 | reykjavikcitymuseum.is Hours: Mon-Thu 12-19, Fri 12-18, Sat & Sun 13-17

Hallgrímstorg 3, Reykjavik 551-3797 | www.lej.is Hours: Sat-Sun 13-17

REYKJAVÍK CITY MUSEUM/ FREE ENTRY The aim of the museum is to shape a unique vision and to be leading in its field.

The museum preserves various collections from professional and amateur photographers.

HAFNARBORG

FREE ENTRY Hafnarborg has a collection of Icelandic art and regular exhibitions presenting leading Icelandic and international artists. Collection exhibitions are a regular part of the program. Around exhibitions are workshops and guided tours.

Strandgata 34, Hafnarfjörður 585-5790 | www.hafnarborg.is Hours: Daily 12-17, Thu 12-21, Closed Tue

A museum with indoor and outdoor exhibitions dedicated to the work of Einar Jónsson, Iceland’s first modern sculptor (1874-1954). The museum was built in the early 1900’s when Einar Jónsson offered all of his works as a gift to the Icelandic nation.

THE NUMISMATIC MUSEUM

FREE ENTRY A selection from the numismatic collection is on display on the ground floor of the Central Bank’s main building in Kalkofnsvegur 1, Reykjavik.

Kalkofnsvegur 1, Reykjavik 569-9600 www.sedlabanki.is Hours: Mon-Fri 13:30-15:30

R O

Trip duration approximately

BSÍ Bus Terminal Reykjavík City

Keflavík International Airport

FAST, FREQUENT & ON SCHEDULE EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK!

Your seat is always guaranteed

Free WiFi on all our buses

In connection with all arriving & departing flights at KEF Int. Airport

Transfer from BSÍ Bus Terminal to Keflavík International Airport or vice versa.

Scan the QR code for our flexible schedule.

Trip duration approximately 45 minutes

Transfer from most hotels and guesthouses in Reykjavík to Keflavík International Airport or vice versa.

For our very flexible schedule kindly consult our brochures or visit www.flybus.is BSÍ Bus Terminal • 101 Reykjavík •

+354 580 5400 • main@re.is • www.flybus.is

WE’LL TAKE YOU THERE! ALL THE MOST EXCITING PLACES IN ICELAND

EXCELLENT VARIETY OF NORTHERN LIGHTS TOURS!

A SIGHT NOT TO BE MISSED!

EXPERIENCE A GREAT DAY WITH US!

More tours available on our website www.re.is AND IN OUR BROCHURES!

Free WiFi

Relax at the Blue Lagoon There is no better way to start or end your Iceland adventure than by bathing in the famous Blue Lagoon. You can either board the bus at BSÍ Bus Terminal in Reykjavík or at Keflavík International Airport.

For departure times, please go to our webpage www.re.is

Please note the Blue Lagoon is closed from 5 January through 21 January 2016 due to renovation.

Reykjavík to Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon to Reykjavík

KEF Airport to Blue Lagoon

Blue Lagoon to KEF Airport

09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00

11:15 12:15 13:15 14:15 15:15 16:15 17:15 18:15 19:15 21:15

08:30 11:30 13:30 15:30 16:30 17:30

12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00

Summer June - August

Autumn September - October

SAT

SUN

Valid through 31 May 2016.

Winter November - March

R O

BSÍ Bus Terminal • 101 Reykjavík •

Flexible

All Year MON TUE WED THU FRI

+354 580 5400 • main@re.is • www.re.is

Spring April - May

The National Gallery of Iceland has come a long way from its origins. To begin with, the collection consisted of donated artwork, mainly by Danish artists. Today the museum stands at Frikirkjuvegur in central Reykjavik, displaying both Icelandic and International art.

Fríkirkjuvegur 7, Reykjavík 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 11-17

ASÍ ART GALLERÝ

FREE ENTRY This museum was founded in 1961 when industrialist and book publisher Ragnar Jónsson donated his personal art collection to the museum, which consisted of paintings by Iceland’s most renowned painters. His wish was to establish an art museum that would bring art to the working class.

Offers a state-of-the-art exhibitions on the cultural history of Iceland.

The permanent exhibition, Making of a Nation - Heritage and History of Iceland, gives a comprehensive picture of Iceland’s cultural history through the ages to the present day.

Suðurgata 41, Reykjavik 530-2200 | nationalmuseum.is Hours: Tue-Sun 10-17

THE ICELANDIC PHALLOLOGICAL MUSEUM

Probably the most unique museum you’ll visit on your trip, the Icelandic Phallological Museum is a one of a kind. Here you’ll find a collection of more than two hundred penises and penile part belonging to almost all land and sea mammals that can be found in Iceland.

Laugavegur 116, Reykjavik 561 6663 | www.phallus.is Hours: Daily 10-18

HANNESARHOLT

VOLCANO HOUSE

Grundarstígur 10, Reykjavik 511-1904 | www.hannesarholt.is Hours: Daily 11-17

Tryggvagata 11, Reykjavik 555-1900 | www.volcanohouse.is Hours: Daily 10-21

Cultural center and historic home of Hannes Hafstein, Iceland’s first Minister of State, now houses the non-profit Hannesarholt, dedicated to retrieving cultural memory, and revitalizing cultural roots.

Bordstofan Bistro open daily from 11am – 6pm. Short doc on Hannes Hafstein and early Reykjavik Guided historic city walks Tue and Thu at 1 pm by appointment.

Shows documentaries that give a good idea of real life in Iceland, where volcanoes and earthquakes are a constant threat. There’s also a geological stone exhibition, which gives a brief overview of Iceland’s geological history and volcanic system, and a boutique, with Icelandic designs, artwork, lava rocks, pumice, bottles of ash and Lava Jewellery.

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM

A museum that Icelandic sculptor Sigurjón Ólafsson’s wife founded as a tribute to his life and work in 1984.

She had his studio in Laugarnes converted to an exhibition space to house his collection of works, including sculptures, sketches, drawings and biographical material.

Laugarnestangi 70 553-2906 | www.lso.is Closed in December and January

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART

Its objective is to collect, study and present Icelandic design and crafts from 1900 to the present day. This young museum, the only one of its kind in Iceland, holds regular exhibitions of Icelandic and international design during the year.

Exhibitions from the museum‘s own collection are regularly held.

Garðatorg 1, Garðabær 512-1525 | www.honnunarsafn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 12-17

AURORA REYKJAVIK

The Northern Lights Center, Aurora Reykjavik, allows you to experience the Northern Lights in a completely different way, both if you saw them, but as well if they escaped you while in Iceland. The center features information, education and of course stunning visuals of the elusive lights that’ll get your heart racing.

Grandagarður 2, Reykjavik 780-4500 | aurorareykjavik.is Hours: Daily 9-21

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

Freyjugata 41, Reykjavik 511-5353 | www.listasafnasi.is Hours: Daily 13-17

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

ART & CULTURE

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

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ART & CULTURE

KJARVALSSTAÐIR

Mainly devoted to paintings and sculpture by well established Icelandic and international artists.

Kjarvalsstaðir offers a permanent exhibition of key works by one of Iceland’s most beloved landscape painters, Jóhannes S. Kjarval, as well as changing exhibitions that explore various thematic and historical aspects of Icelandic art.

Flókagata 24, Reykjavik 517-1290 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17

GLJÚFRASTEINN LAXNESS MUSEUM

Halldór Laxness is arguably the most famous Icelandic writer of all time, and the only Icelander to have won a Nobel Prize, which he received for literature in 1955.

Gljúfrasteinn was his home until his death, and today it is a museum dedicated to his life and work.

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

Gljúfrasteinn, Mosfellsbær 586-8066 | www.gljufrasteinn.is Hours: Tue-Sun 10-16

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ÁSMUNDARSAFN

Opened in 1983, the collection is housed in a unique building designed and constructed mostly by the artist himself from 19421950. The original building served Sveinsson as studio and home; behind it he built a crescent-shaped structure as a work- and exhibition space.

Sigtún, Reykjavik 553-2155 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17.

THE CULTURE HOUSE

Artifacts and works of art from the varied collections of six institutions provide a reflection of Iceland’s visual art history and cultural heritage in the exhibition Points of View, a journey through the Icelandic visual world of past and present. There are seven points of view to be found in as many wings of the house, connecting what you’ll see, independent from the medium or time.

HAFNARHÚS

The Reykjavik Art Museum took p o ss e ss i o n o f i t s p o r t i o n o f Hafnarhús (Harbour House) in April 2000. Hafnarhús was built in 193239 for the offices and warehouses of Reykjavik Harbor and was at that time one of the largest buildings in the country.

Tryggvagata 17, Reykjavik 590-1200 | www.artmuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-17, Thu 10-20

ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON COLLECTION

One of the pioneers of Icelandic art and the first Icelander to take up painting professionally. Having died in 1958, he bequeathed all his works, as well as his studio home to the Icelandic nation.

Bergstaðastræti 74, Reykjavík 515-9625

Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavik 545-1400 | www.culturehouse.is Hours: Tue-Sun 10-17

Closed in December and January

THE CINEMA

SAGA MUSEUM

WHALES OF ICELAND

Geirsgata 7b, Reykjavík 898 6628 | www.thecinema.is Hours: Daily 12-20

Grandagardur 2, Reykjavik 511-1517 | sagamuseum.is

Fiskislóð 23-25, Reykjavik 571-0077 | whalesoficeland.is Hours: Daily 10-17

A cozy place in a loft at the lively Old Harbour down town Reykjavík, where there is a daily show of films of volcanoes, northern lights and nature gems of Iceland. At The Cinema, one can also enjoy a rock exhibition, buy DVD’s and more, look at books, get refreshments, information - or just relax in a unique place.

From the time of the earliest settlers, history is brought to life in a unique and exciting way. The Saga Museum intimately recreates key moments in Icelandic history, moments that have determined the fate of our people and which give a compelling view into how Icelanders have lived for more than a millenium.

The largest whale exhibition in Europe (and perhaps even the world), where guests can learn about the giants of the sea in a calm and modern environment.

The permanent exhibition features whales like guests have never seen them before. It is truly a giant experience.

SOUVENIR SHOP S HOP OF T H E Y E A R 2 0 1 2

The viking:info Laugavegur 1 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 1 - 3 · Reykjavík Hafnarstræti 104 · Akureyri Adalstræti 27 · Ísafjördur e:info@the viking

Ísafjördur

Akureyri Reykjavík

www.theviking.is TAX FREE

Two Icelandic themed villages

HLI

Ð Á LF TA NE SI

Restaurant & Lodging

The Viking Village is a unique place and it is the only Viking theme Hotel and restaurant in Iceland. We have step by step been developing our facilities over the last 24 years and will hopefully continue to do so in the future. We offer Hotel accommodation and Viking houses. Good for families and groups.

The Fisherman´s village, our newest accommodation is Hlið in Álftanes only few minutes drive from the Viking Village.

Like a country home by the seaside. Such an idyllic place to visit. The restaurant is open for groups in the evenings. Close to the president´s residence.

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Viking feasts - Souvenirs - Live entertainment most nights “You haven't been in Iceland if you haven't been to us“ Don’t miss it!

Booking: www.vikingvillage.is | +354 565 1213

Welcome to Gló Restaurant AT LAUGAVEGUR Gló is Iceland’s most popular health food restaurant in Reykjavik. Gló offers different set menu everyday: Raw food, chicken, a vegetarian dish and soup. Tasty desserts, coffee, tea and delicious juices are offered as well.

Laugavegur 20b · Open every day 11–22 Tel 553 1111 · www.glo.is · #gloiceland

Austur is one of the hottest clubs in downtown Reykjavik, and has been since it first opened in 2009. Austur is located in Austurstraeti, one of the main bar- and shopping streets downtown, and even though the surrounding area is filled with clubs and bars, Austur seems to be the center of attention.

Austurstræti 7, Reykjavik 568-1907

HÚRRA

Dark and raw, this large bar/club opens up its back room to make a concert venue, with live music or DJs most nights. They’ve got six Icelandic microbreweries on tap and happy hour runs till 21:00. One of the coolest and hipster friendly places in town and your best bet of catching the next big thing from Iceland.

KAFFIBARINN

Best known as Damon Albarn’s hangout place back in the days, this most famous bar in Iceland is a popular destination for the artsy and univer sity crowd. During the week it‘s more of a café, but on the weekend the volume rises and KB becomes one of the hottest bars in Reykjavik.

Bergstaðastræti 1, Reykjavik 551-1588 www.kaffibarinn.is

One of the coolest bars in Reykjavik these days is Kaldi Bar. In close cooperation with north-Icelandic micro-brewery of the same name, Kaldi offers you a selection of craftbrewed beers on tap. Great happy hour and great fun, Kaldi is a place not-to-be-missed!

Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 581-2200

B5

B5 bar/bistro has become a very popular establishment with the locals of the capital. With its very contemporary and stylish interior, b5 is laid back during the day, while as night falls, the lights dim and the atmosphere changes accordingly.

Bankastræti 5, Reykjavik 552-9600 www.b5.is

THE CELTIC CROSS

An Irish pub with multiple beers on tap. With a big screen TV to watch the game, while enjoying a nice cold pint of beer, the Celtic Cross features friendly staff and a nice atmosphere that makes you feel just at home.

Hverfisgata 26, Reykjavik 511-3240

DEN DANSKE KRO

There is live music playing every night at Den Danske Kro and sometimes there are live football games, pub quizzes, beer bingo, darts and happy hours. Den Danske Kro is a casual place in the heart of Reykjavik where everyone is welcome.

Ingólfsstræti 3, Reykjavik 552-0070 www.danski.is

BAR ANANAS

THE ENGLISH PUB

Klapparstígur 38, Reykjavik

Austurstræti 12, Reykjavik 578-0400 www.facebook.com/enskibarinn

Ten seconds from Laugavegur, you´ll find Iceland’s one and only Beach-Bar/Tiki Bar in downtown Reykjavík. There, most things are made in the shape of a pineapple.

Pillows, glasses, chandeliers, candlesticks and more. At weekends city´s best DJs will make guests feel sunny while they enjoy the strangest cocktails in town. Go for the Flamingophant cocktail!

In the mood for a pint? English Pub offers over 35 brands of beer and Whiskey. Whatever your preference – you will find it here. This is also a great place if you would like to catch some football (soccer). Inside they have 3 big screens and 2 TV’s so that you can catch all the action as it happens.

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

Naustin, Reykjavik www.hurra.is

KALDI BAR

NIGHTLIFE

AUSTUR

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SHOPPING & STYLE Find more recommendations at whatson.is 70

ANNA MARÍA DESIGN

For over twenty years, jewelry designer Anna Maria has created her things of gold and silver, a design that is both pure and timeless. Exceptional attention to detail and craftsmanship create the elegant simplicity that shines through Anna Maria’s products.

Skólavörðustígur 3, Reykjavik 551-0036 www.annamariadesign.is

LISTVINAHÚSIÐ

The oldest ceramic workshop in Iceland established 1927. Three generations of artistic potters.

U n i q u e h a n d m a d e ce ra m i c s , Viking masks and various ceramic potteries decorated with lava, made

by Gudmundur Einarsson. Located right next to Hallgrímskirkja and the statue of “Leif the Lucky”.

Skólavörðustígur 43, Reykjavik 551-2850 www.listvinahusid.is

FJALLAKOFINN

At Fjallakofinn you can find top quality clothing and good equipment at a fair price. They offer good advise on all backpacking and outdoor related things and offer basic things like backpacks, sleeping bags and tents for rent. A licensed retailer of many big brands, you’ll find everything for your outdoor needs.

Laugavegur 11, Reykjavik 510-9505 | www.fjallakofinn.is

ÁLAFOSS

One of Iceland’s major woollen industry shops, the Álafoss store.

Situated in old factory premises that for decades were the leading manufacturers and exporters of Icelandic woollens, Álafoss is a company that strives towards offering the newest wares along with the traditional Icelandic wool sweaters.

Laugavegur 8, Reykjavik 566-6303 | www.alafoss.is

LISTASELIÐ

IGLÓ&INDÍ

Skólavörðustígur 17b, Reykjavik 551-5675 | www.listaselid.is Hours: Mon-Fri 12-18, Sat 11-16

Skólavörðustígur 2, Reykjavik 445-2020 | www.igloandindi.com

Six energetic women design and create exclusive art, while also running and working in the gallery.

The gallery offers gift vouchers, issued by the store or by the Centrum organization that can be redeemed within most shops on Laugarvegur and Skólavörðustígur in downtown Reykjavik.

Loved by parents and children alike and praised in the media for boldness and creativity, Ígló&Indí has offered both parents and children an ever growing collection of clothes with a fresh take on children’s fashion since 2008— representing the best childhood has to offer.

THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS SHOP

On Laugavegur, in the heart of Reykjavík, you’ll find the very unique Little Christmas Shop— which is dedicated to the spirit of Christmas, all year round. There you’ll find Icelandic decorations and everything needed for that festive spirit. Should not be missed as it is definitely one of the most special and fun stores to visit.

Laugavegur 8, Reykjavik 552-2412

METAL DESIGN

The jewellery forms which Metal design is known for are inspired by the Icelandic flora. But what stands out the most is the shape “The Coast” that is inspired by the waves of the Icelandic coast.”The coast silver jewellery line is for ladies and gentlemen.

Skólavörðustígur 2. Reykjavik 552-5445 www.MetalDesignReykjavik.is

CINTAMANI

Nowhere in the populated world does the weather change as fast, or as often as here. Thus Icelandic d e s i g n e r s h ave to m e e t t h e requirements of consumers who have to go out all year long in harsh conditions. That‘s where the label Cintamani comes to the rescue.

Their goal is to keep us warm, dry and comfortable, whatever the weather may bring.

Bankastræti 7, Reykjavik 533-3800 | www.cintamani.is

BY BOAT

ALSO TRY

NORTHERN LIGHTS

BY BOAT*

SEP OCT NOV DES JAN FEB MAR APR** 22:00 21:00* 21:00 21:00 21:00 21:00 21:00* 22:00

WHALE WATCHING FROM REYKJAVIK

PRICE: Adults 9.000 ISK Children (7-15) 4.500 ISK Children (0-6) FREE

*Departing at 21:00 from 16th Oct-14th Mar **Until 15 April

WHALE WATCHING SEP OCT NOV DES JAN FEB MAR APR 09:00 09:00 09:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 13:00 17:00* *From 15th May-15th September Price: Adults: 9.000 ISK Children (7-15) 4.500 ISK Children (0-6) FREE

WE GO THE EXTRA MILE! Book online www.specialtours.is / info@specialtours.is Call us +354 560 8800, or visit our ticket sale at the old harbour

SHOPPING & STYLE

GULLKÚNST HELGU

With its wide open spaces and beautiful treasures displayed in glass casting, Gullkúnst Helgu feels more like a gallery than a jewelry shop. Located on central Laugavegur, Reykjavik´s busiest shopping street, this family owned shop is not to be missed.

Laugavegur 13, Reykjavik 561-6660 www.gullkunst.is

STUDIO STAFN

At Studio Stafn you will be able to look at art, purchase art and have your art framed! Great works and historical paintings by Iceland’s most famous artists could become all yours if you pay them a visit. If you’re not looking to buy art, at least stop by and take a look.

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

Ingólfsstræti 6, Reykjavik 552-4700 www.studiostafn.is

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THE HANDKNITTING ASSOCIATION OF ICELAND

Renowned for its excellent products and quality. Offering the widest selection of traditional hand knitted Icelandic sweaters, the range of products also includes special designs and a variety of woolen products from leading Icelandic manufactures.

Skólavörðustígur 19, Reykjavik 552-1890 | www.handknit.is

MICHELSEN

KRAUM

Laugavegur 15, Reykjavik 511-1900 | www.michelsen.is

Aðalstræti 10, Reykjavik 517-7797 www.kraum.is

HILDUR HAFSTEIN

GEYSIR

Inside their spacious shop in downtown Reykjavik, Michelsen Watchmakers offer you to browse one of Iceland’s best selection of watches. Along with their own design they also have a wide selection of well-known brands including Rolex, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Diesel, Movado, Swiss Military and more.

A wonderful little workshop, where Hildur Hafstein creates her handmade Icelandic jewelry line, KORA. Inspired by different elements, such as Buddhism and the flower power, a visit to Hildur Hafstein will be a pleasant experience. Although the store is technically on Laugavegur, you walk in from Klapparstígur!

Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 771-1177 www.HildurHafstein.is

EPAL

Their main goal has been to increase Icelanders interest and respect for fine design by introducing and providing top quality design products from all over the world, particularly Scandinavia. Epal has always been very supportive of Icelandic designers and done what they can to help them promote their design around the world.

Skeifan 6, & Harpa Reykjavik Keflavík Airport 568-7740 | www.epal.is

Natural light floods the wooden floors and the fresh white walls of this stunning design hub and retail outlet, which already attracts some of Iceland´s top talents. More than 70 designers are contributing to a huge selection of products that include children’s puzzles, fish skin lamps and exquisite jewellery.

Rustic, vintage interior, intertwined with the latest fashion in outdoor and woolen clothing. Add some puffin, reindeers and other iconic animals and you‘ve got one of the coolest shops in town. This is one place you‘ll have to visit, if only for the experience.

Skólavörðustíg 16, Reykjavík 519-6000 www.geysir.com

KRINGLAN

Kringlan Shopping Centre is conveniently located close to downtown Reykjavik. Standing at 50.000 sq.m. and equipped with 150 shops and services, including a multiplex cinema, a seven-outlet food court and three themed restaurants, it has something to suit every need.

Kringlan 4-12, Reykjavik 517-9000 | www.kringlan.is

SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 14 - 101 REYKJAVÍK - TEL: +354 571 1100

Gourmet Experience

- Steaks and Style at Argentina Steakhouse Barónsstíg 11 - 101 Reykjavík Tel: 551 9555 argentina.is

FOOD & DRINK

TORFAN RESTAURANT

This great restaurant combines traditional French cuisine with a Nordic touch. It is traditional but still connects to the present and the outcome is a classical cuisine surprise. Torfan is at Bernhöftstorfa, in one of the cities most beautiful house, built in 1838.

Amtmannsstígur 1, Reykjavík 561-3303 | www.torfan.is

AUSTURLANDAHRAÐLESTIN

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

An excellent Indian restaurant, focusing on quality take-away, with the option of eating in. This means that while it‘s technically “fast food”, it’s definitely of restaurant q u a l i t y. T h e m e n u i n c l u d e s everything you could expect from an Indian restaurant, with the Chicken Tandoori being especially recommended.

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Lækjargata 8, Reykjavik 578-3838 | www.hradlestin.is

SNAPS

A new restaurant in Iceland situated at Odinstorg. Snaps is a classic french bistro using local Icelandic ingredients. The location could not be better. Snaps is literally a few steps away from downtown Reykjavik, close to the National Theatre, The National Gallery of Iceland and the two main shopping streets of Reykjavik” Óðinstorg, Reykjavik 511-6677 | www.snaps.is

VEGAMÓT BISTRO

Is a centrally located and affordable restaurant that boasts an extensive international menu with an emphasis on Tex-Mex, Italian, Indian and many light meal options. One thing you can be sure of, when you visit Vegamót is that the place will be crowded. This local hit is usually filled with locals for lunch, dinner and during evenings.

Vegamótastígur 4, Reykjavik 511-3040 | www.vegamot.is

GRILLIÐ

Newly renovated in its original unique design, Grillið is one of the city’s best located panoramic viewpoints While you enjoy the view, our chefs will prepare your gourmet meal from extraordinary Icelandic materials. Lead by head chef Sigurður Helgason who represented Iceland in the famous Bocuse d´Or competition in 2015 and with him is Atli Þór Erlendsson, Chef of the Year 2015 in Iceland.

Radisson BLU Hotel, Reykjavik 525-9960 | www.grillid.is

ARGENTÍNA STEAKHOUSE

HAMBORGARABÚLLAN – BURGER JOINT

Barónsstígur 11a, Reykjavik 551-9555 | www.argentina.is

Geirsgata 1, Reykjavik 511-1888 www.bullan.is

UNO RESTAURANT

APOTEK

They offer some of the the finest cuisine there is to find in the whole city. Grilling meat and fish of all kinds Argentinian style using wooden coal is what they do better than any other restaurant and frankly, you won‘t believe your own tastebuds

Uno is a relatively new, modern Italian restaurant in downtown Reykjavik, where original Italian culinary customs and Icelandic ingredients come together to form a delightful treat.

Hafnarstræti 1-3, Reykjavik 561-1313 | www.uno.is

Since 2004, the Joint has kept it simple, fun and delicious. Sitting right by the Old Harbour, in a small, iconic house, the atmosphere of the Burger Joint is hard to find elsewhere. You can feel the joy of the staff, as they serve you juicy burgers, exploding with great taste.

An exciting restaurant located in one of the most beautiful corners of Reykjavik, Apotek Restaurant is casual-smart, offering delicious food in a vibrant atmosphere and stylish surroundings. The menu is a fun mix of Icelandic and European cuisine and the dishes are designed to share and enjoy together.

Austurstræti 16, Reykjavik 551-0011 | www.apotek.is

The concept of the restaurant is "c a s u a l f u n d i n i n g" a n d w e p r e p a r e w h a t w e w o u l d call a simple honest, "feel good", comfort food, where we take on the classics with a modern twist.

S K Ó L AV Ö R Ð U S T Í G U R 4 0 · 1 0 1 R E Y K J AV Í K T E L . +3 5 4 5 1 7 74 74 · I N F O @ K O L R E S TA U R A N T. I S · KO L R E S TA U R A N T. I S

ROCK N’ ROLL

R I B S

2.890

IKR

Salted Cod With almond and chive butter, fig and potatoes

3.650

IKR

+3 5 4 5 1 7 4 3 0 0 geysirbistro.is

+354 527 5000 grillhusid.is

AUSTURINDÍAFJELAGIÐ

JÓMFRÚIN

The spices used to season the food at Austur-Indiafjelagid are imported directly from India and blended on the spot by their team of highly experienced chefs. The Tandoori dishes on the menu must be mentioned, as the chefs have truly mastered the art of Tandoori grilling.

An open-sandwich restaurant in the Danish tradition offering authentic Danish smørrebrød along with a selection of hot dishes. The restaurant is located in the heart of the city centre and seats 80 guests. It is a popular lunch venue, especially with people from the business sector.

Tryggvagata 4-6, Reykjavik 561-1111 | www.steik.is

Hverfisgata 56, Reykjavik 552-1630 | www.austurindia.is

Lækjargata 4, Reykjavik 551-0100 | www.jomfruin.is

KOL

THE ICELANDIC BAR

PERLAN

A new restaurant opposite the old harbour that offers traditional steak dishes along with some exciting and fairly unorthodox choices. The pride and joy of The Steakhouse is the Mibrasa charcoal oven, a rare oven that is designed to cook the perfect steak by mixing modern technology with ancient tradition.

Kol describes itself as “casual fine dining with a big bar”. The name comes from the unique charcoal oven which lends a very special, rustic flavour to the dishes. The restaurant offers a wide variety of sophisticated cocktails, mixed with handmade syrups and juices.

Skólavörðustígur 40, Reykjavik 517-7474

GLÓ

Located inside Listhusid in Laugardalur valley, Glo is Iceland‘s hottest new organic restaurant.

The menu consists of vegetarianand raw food courses, meat dishes, soups and salads. The courses are somewhat modest as they are simple, filling and not flooded with too much spice or ingredients.

Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 553-1111 | www.glo.is

The Icelandic Bar is very aptly named: it is an Icelandic bar. But more than that, it is a bar that aims to preserve the essence of being Icelandic by combining the historical and cultural heritage of this ancient land with the very hip and cutting edge culture of modern times.

Ingólfsstræti 1a, Reykjavík 517+6767 | www.islenskibarinn.is

KAFFITÁR

A chain of cafés and espresso bars with over 30 years of experience in serving and roasting high-quality coffee. They operate cafés in 8 locations in Iceland, promising a highly knowledgeable staff and a great cup of coffee procured in a responsible and fair way.

Bankastræti 8, Reykjavik 420-2700 www.kaffitar.is/en

FOOD & DRINK

THE STEAK HOUSE

For the finest in dining, nothing compares to Perlan Restaurant.

While your taste buds delight to superb cuisine, you will enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Reykjavik and beyond as the restaurant gently completes a full rotation every two hours.

Perlan, Reykjavik 562-0200 | www.perlan.is

KJALLARINN KITCHEN BAR

„The Cellar“ a new restaurant in one of the cities oldest houses. The menu is split up by the two main methods of cooking, a coal oven and a French planche. Master chef Eyjólfur Gestur serves up exciting feasts from both sea and land as well as great parings of food and cocktails.

Aðalstræti 2, Reykjavik 517 7373

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FOOD & DRINK

SJÁVARBARINN

Sjávarbarinn’s main feature is an all-you-can-eat buffet that has received raving reviews and it also offers an à la carte menu at a very competitive price. Join the locals for lunch in a friendly and cheerful atmosphere or enjoy dinner when the chef spruces things up.

Grandagarður 9, Reykjavik 517-3131 www.sjavarbarinn.is

KOPAR

Kopar is a restaurant by the old harbour in Reykjavik which has an emphasis on adventure and experience in a brasserie setting.

Their menu is composed of various locally sourced ingredients from sea and land, and aims to give you a taste of Iceland in a single evening.

Find more recommendations at whatson.is

Geirsgata 3, Reykjavik 567-2700 www.koparrestaurant.is

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FLJÓTT OG GOTT

One of Reykjavik’s iconic restaurants, located in the main bus terminal, BSÍ. Here you can have the coveted “Sheep’s Head” as well as all the traditional Icelandic food, which is a must-try for all adventurous travellers!

Vatnsmýrarvegur 10, Reykjavik 552-1288 | www.fljottoggott.is

MAR - SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

A restaurant in prime location in Reykjavík‘s old harbour. The menu is inspired by South-American and southern-European cuisine and the restaurant designed to deliver fresh and uplifting dining experience, unique to the harbour area. MAR is an interesting choice for individuals and groups alike.

AALTO BISTRO

A unique restaurant and café, run by the award-winning chef, Sveinn Kjartansson. AALTO puts an emphasis on Scandinavian food, inspired by European cuisine.

Located in the Nordic House, designed by the acclaimed Finnish architect, Alvar Aalto, this bistro is a hidden gem.

Geirsgata 9, Reykjavik 519-5050 | www.marrestaurant.is

The Nordic House, Sturlugata 5, Reykjavik 551-0200 | www.aalto.is

GRILLHÚSIÐ

73 RESTAURANT

Tryggvagata 20, Reykjavik 527-5000 www.grillhusid.is

Laugavegur 73, Reykjavik 555 7373 www.73.is

FISH COMPANY

KOLABRAUTIN

A fun restaurant, with the look and feel of an American Diner.

Reasonably priced, offering delicious food and a very good service, you‘ll definitely get great value for your money here. They put a special emphasis on using only high quality ingredients, making for a terrific meal.

Quality, fusion and fun are the Fish Company’s main characteristics.

The interior is stylish and the quirky tableware fits in wonderfully. The menu is a world of adventures from starters to deserts. It’s designed to take you on a seafood journey and not only a journey of the Icelandic culinary waters but a trip around the world.

Vesturgata 2a, Reykjavik 552-5300 | www.fiskfelagid.is

Offering a great selection of Icelandic brews and one of the most Epic Burgers this country has ever seen (300gr!), 73, a family-owned and operated restaurant is the place to go for those seeking great food at good prices. Take note that the outdoor seating area is a special treat!

Harpa is not only home to the Icelandic Opera and the Orchestra, it is also the location of one of Reykjavik‘s newest fine restaurants.

The kitchen is in the middle of the room, where the fiery furnace gives the dinner guests a warm welcome.

An ideal choice for people who appreciate fine cuisine combined with unique architecture and elegant atmosphere.

Harpa, Reykjavik 519-9700 | www.kolabrautin.is

Experience real Icelandic cuisine

Bankastræti 2, 101 Reykjavík Tel: (+354) 551 4430 info@laekjarbrekka.is www.laekjarbrekka.is

Let’s be friends!

/laekjarbrekka

vurl.is/i

NICE

GREAT FOODGOOD DRINKS ATMO HAPPY HOUR EVERY DAY 17-19

KITCHEN IS OPEN Weekends 11.30–24 Other days 11.30–23

UNO at Ingólfstorg | Tel. 561 1313 | www.uno.is

Enjoy the freedom of riding ÍSHESTAR offers horseback riding tours through the spectacular Icelandic landscape. Whether you join our tours into the wilderness of the remote highlands, through the lush countryside or, all year round, for a short ride from our Riding Centre near Reykjavik, riding with Íshestar is a great experience.

For further information check out our website www.ishestar.is, call +354 555 7000 or be our friend on Facebook.

For over 30 years Íshestar has given people an opportunity to ride the Icelandic horse, the most versatile gait horse in the world. Horses are our partners and our passion.

Got a question about Iceland? Wondering if it’s safe? (It is). Who the president is? (Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson). Maybe you’re wondering about where to find some original Icelandic Igloos? (Just stop.

Don’t.). We have the answers to these questions and plenty more at our website: www.whatson.is.

If you can’t find your answer there, just visit us on Laugavegur 4 in Reykjavík, or drop us an e-mail at whatson@whatson.is.

MUST KNOW PHONE NUMBERS

IMPORTANT STATISTICS

112 – The only number you need to have in your arsenal. If you get hurt, robbed, set on fire or accidentally set something on fire yourself, this is the number you call. Memorize it. Luckily, it isn’t complicated.

330.000 The population of the country. Yes, we know, it’s not a lot.

5885522 – Thanks to a catchy jingle this company had in the early nineties, every Icelander knows this number. There are other taxi companies, but ask any Icelander for a number for a taxi, this is probably what you get.

0 Number of people living in Igloos in Iceland.

99.5 Percentage of Icelanders who speak English. Although we of course encourage you to check out the beautiful Icelandic language, if only for the always hilarious Eyjafjallajökull joke, you’ll be perfectly safe conversing with locals in a more international language.

4 The street number of our Laugavegur office in case you have more questions, feel like seeing the Northern lights, or just feel like chatting!

5 Number of post offices in the Reykjavík area. Alternatively, e-mail was invented several years ago, and has gotten quite popular, maybe you should look into that?

220 Number of volts Icelandic electricity uses. Converters are needed for people from the UK and the USA, at least for those who like their phones charged and their hair dry and/or curled.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: NUMBERS YOU SHOULD KNOW!

1818 – If you forget the emergency number, want to call a different taxi company or you met some nice Icelanders last night and want to call them up, this is the only number you need, the Icelandic phonebook. +354 – The country code to Iceland.

Add this to the seven digit phone numbers in Iceland and you can telephone to your heart’s desire, so long as you’re calling people in Iceland.

CHECK OUT MORE ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ONLINE AT WHATSON.IS/FAQ

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Make a toast with Iceland’s no. 1 beer Pour a glass of the number one beer in the country, raise your glass to a friend and say “scowl fyrewr thyer!” You should fit right in.

Skál fyrir þér!

Enjoy responsibly

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Álafoss Main Store Álafossvegi 23 270 Mosfellsbær Opening hours: Monday to Friday 9.00 - 18.00 Saturday 9.00 - 16.00

Álafoss - Sweaters & souvenirs Laugavegi 8 Reykjavík City centre Opening hours: All days 10.00 - 21.00

Special opening for groups after closing: tel: 354 5666303

– Visit our stores: Skólavörðustígur 7 & 16, 101 Reykjavík, Akureyri and Geysir, Haukadal. geysir.com –