What's On in Reykjavik - October 2014 by MD Reykjavik

OCTOBER 2014

IN REYKJAVIK

REYKJAVIK’S LEADING GUIDE TO ENTERTAINMENT, EATING OUT, MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES.

Reykjavík Art Museum

Open daily One admission to three museums

Tomas Saraceno, Untitled, 2010.

Jóhannes S. Kjarval, From Þingvellir, 1957.

Andreas Eriksson, Kofi Ted Kaczynskis/ Ted Kaczynskis Cabin, 2004. Ljósmynd/Photo: Richard Svensson.

HafnarHús Tryggvagata 17 Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursdays 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Erró and art History 6.9. 2014–27.9. 2015 Ásdís sif Gunnarsdóttir: future Crash /Tribal TV 6.9. 2014–19.10. 2014 Mojoko & shang Liang: reactive Wall 6.9. 2014–19.10. 2014 synthesis 20.9. 2014–18.1. 2015

sirra sigrún sigurðardóttir: flatland 1.11. 2014–25.1. 2015 Gunter Damisch: Worlds and Ways 1.11. 2014– 18.1. 2015 ÁsMunDarsafn Sigtún Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. a Posterori: House, sculpture 13.9. 2014–1.2. 2015

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

Hulda Hákon, Höfði and the Midgard Serpent, 1987.

KjarVaLssTaðir Flókagata Open daily 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. andreas Eriksson: roundabouts 27.9. 2014–4.1. 2015 Kjarval and andreas Eriksson: Topsoil 27.9. 2014–4.1. 2015

WHAT’S ON

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2014

ON THE COVER OCTOBER IN REYKJAVIK

EXPERIENCE 6-27

EVENT CALENDAR

28-41

REYKJAVIK CITY MAP 42-43

MUSEUM WALK

44-45

WHAT’S ON

46-55

ART & CULTURE

56-61

NIGHTLIFE 62-63

SHOPPING & STYLE

64-67

FOOD & DRINK

68-73

PRACTICAL INFO

74-81

So we’ve got a volcano on the cover this month. It might seem a little strange – seeing as this volcano isn’t even close to Reykjavik – and the magazine is in fact called “What’s On in Reykjavik”. But in reality, we felt it fit, as the eruption that’s been going on for over a month now, is really the main thing that’s on. And we sent some reporters up there. Twice. They took pictures and wrote a whole bunch of articles – so it felt fitting to feature one of them on the cover. That of course goes hand in hand as well with the 3 pages long coverage on the volcano later in this magazine. This volcano thing is truly crazy and flying over there is something everyone should seriously think about doing – it’s truly amazing. Other than volcano news, Iceland is filled with interesting things as usual. RIFF, the Reykjavik International Film Festival is still on – coming to an end, and then, in the earlier part of October the ever lovely Yoko Ono will light the Imagine Peace Tower – a shining beacon that keeps us warm during those long October nights. So all in all a good month ahead, winter is creeping ever closer with dark nights and cool days. But we don’t mind. We got northern lights, volcanoes and plenty of things to keep us occupied – so enjoy your stay!

Editor: Hjörtur Atli Guðmunds. Geirdal, hjortur@whatson.is, Tel.:847-4153. Content writers: The What’s On Team Cover photo: Daníel Bjarnason | Map: Kári Gunnarsson Printing: Oddi, Ecolabelled Printing Company

Layout & design: Stefán Birgir Stefáns, sbs@sbs.is 141

I C E CO L A

B EL

www.whatson.is

Volume 32 – Issue 10. Published by MD Reykjavik ehf. Laugavegur 4, 101 Reykjavik. Tel.: 899-2255. E-mail: whatson@whatson.is

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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.

GLACIER WALKS AND OUTDOOR ADVENTURES MAKE SURE IT’S MOUNTAIN GUIDES

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Ministry for the Environment and Natural Resources

2006 For designing and developing Glacier Walks.

En vi r

ICELANDAIR PIONEER AWARD

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

EXPERIENCE

THE

OCTOBER C H E C K L I S T

You’re in Iceland – now go enjoy Iceland! Here is a list of things we think you should do this month! Tag your photos with #WhatsOnRVK as you check items off the list and stop by at the What’s On House with final proof that you’ve done ‘em all! Have fun!”

For more must-do-things, check out www.whatson.is

THE TOP 10 TO-DO IN OCTOBER!

Take a cheeky selfie at Gullfoss! Taste something uniquely Icelandic! Check out the Yoko Ono Imagine Peace Tower! Visit a local swimming pool! Be a Viking and have ice cream in the rain! Visit one of Reykjavik’s museums! Don’t get stranded due to a Volcanic Eruption Explore a volcanic Lava Tube Catch a film at the Reykjavik International Film Festival! See the Northern Lights!

THE WONdErS Of

VOLCANOES Volcano House features two documentaries chronicling two of Iceland´s most famous volcanic eruptions of the last 40 years

Vestmannaeyjar 1973, Eyjafjallajökull 2010 and other volcanoes Showtimes

English: 10:00-21:00 every hour on the hour German: 18:00 from June 15th to September 15th Open every day Vestmannaeyjar 1973 The eruption in Vestmannaeyjar began without warning on the night of January 23rd, 1973. 400 homes perished under ash and lava and nearly 5.000 people had to flee to the mainland in matter of hours.

Eyjafjallajökull 2010 The most famous volcano eruption in recent times; the eruption that caused much disruption in air travel over large parts of Europe. This powerful documentary made specially for Volcano House was filmed and directed by the Emmy-nominated Icelandic film maker, Jóhann Sigfússon.

Geological Exhibition you may touch Tryggvagata 11, 101 Reykjavik | (354) 555 1900 volcanohouse.is

VOLCANO HOUSE Cinema | Geological Exhibition

EXPERIENCE

THE REYKJAVIK COFFEE EXPERIENCE 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. We know of at least five places where you will get great coffee.

CAFÉ PARÍS

AUSTURSTRÆTI 14

Café Paris is one of Reykjavik city’s most beloved restaurants and cafés, and has been for twenty years. It’s ideally situated by Austurvöllur square, where Icelanders go to celebrate the sun in the summertime. Inside Café Paris, you’ll be able to relax in a calm and casual atmosphere while enjoying a warm cup of coffee. They have a wide selection of coffee drinks but their Frappuccino “à la Café Paris” deserves the highest praise. You can’t go wrong with any of their cakes if you’re in the mood for a luxurious refreshment as well.

10 DROPAR

LAUGAVEGUR 27

One of Reykjavik‘s oldest cafés, located in a hidden basement on Laugavegur that is 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 homelike 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.

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REYKJAVIK ROASTERS KÁRASTÍGUR 1

A small and intimate coffee shop in the city center where you’ll find first class coffee and refreshment. Their coffee is roasted in their own roasteries by their own roasting masters. When you walk in you’ll notice their beautiful La Marzocco espresso machine and two Mazzer grinders, and realize that coffee at Kaffismiðjan is serious business. If you like your coffee, which you probably will, you can purchase whole beans in 300 gram bags or have them custom grinded for your coffee maker.

KAFFIFÉLAGIÐ

SKÓLAVÖRÐUSTÍGUR 10

It may be the smallest coffee shop in the country but it’s definitely one of the most popular ones too. Kaffifélagið offers a wide selection of coffee drinks made from Italian espresso beans that are grown in Ottolina, Milan. If you want to awaken your senses and make your mouth to foam with delight and deliciousness, 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, DVD’s and Icelandic music while you’re there.

SÓLON

BANKASTRÆTI 7A

If you’re looking for the perfect place to sit down, order a cup of coffee and watch people go on with their daily lives outside the window, Café Sólon is the place for you. The oversized artwork and sleek furniture definitely add to its appeal. Café Sólon is located in an old beautiful building in the city center with big windows and a lot of history. Their aromatic coffee will send any coffee lover over the edge, and if you’re looking for something more, than their variety of tapas plates or their seafood soup is definitely something to check out!

WE’RE OPEN! FÍTON / SÍA

YOU'LL FIND US AT KRINGLAN SHOPPING CENTER

Goðafoss (Waterfall of the Gods) is closely connected with one of the most historical events in Icelandic history, the conversion to Christianity in the year 1000. Faced with the difficult task of settling the growing disputes between the christian and the heathen parts of the populace, the lawspeaker, Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði, despite being a heathen chieftain and priest himself, decided that Iceland should adopt Christianity. Legend has it that once he had announced his decision, he bade farewell to his heathen gods by throwing their statues into the falls in a symbolic act. This is how Goðafoss got its name. Goðafoss is an impressive 12 metre high waterfall, located in the north-east of the country.

The Waterfall collection was inspired by the watchmakers’ quest for perfection and the exceptionally beautiful Icelandic waterfalls Svartifoss and Goðafoss. These waterfalls deserve their names on a watch. A fine Swiss mechanical movement, hand-beveled and hand-decorated by a 4th generation Michelsen watchmaker. The Goðafoss features a high quality solid stainless steel case with black coating (DLC), and a Swiss traditional dial made by hand. Available with several strap offerings, including exotic Icelandic spotted wolffish leather.

For more information please visit www.michelsenwatch.com Laugavegur 15 - 101 Reykjavík - Tel. 354 511 1900 - www.michelsenwatch.com

Michelsen Goรฐafoss

EXPERIENCE

#WhatsOnRvk So youâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;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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Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;d love to publish your best moments from Iceland, so go ahead and tag them on Instagram, using #WhatsOnRvk.

EXPERIENCE

on Instagram

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Follow WhatsOnIceland on Instagram for more beautiful shots from Iceland!

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EXPERIENCE

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 everyday from 9am – 17pm. 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. For more information, go to www.gljufrasteinn.is.

Í SL E NSKI BA RI NN www.islenskibarinn.is

I NGÓLF SST RÆT I 1A 1 01 R EYK JAV Í K postur@islenskibarinn.is sími: 517 6767

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!

INGÓLFSSTRÆTI 1A

1 0 1 R E Y K J AV Í K

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

EXPERIENCE

T H E R E Y K J AV I K 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

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

Standing at 25 metres high, Perlan is one of Reykjavík’s most striking buildings and although it was opened to the public in 1991 it still makes a stand out piece of architecture for its modern construction. Up on the fourth level there is a 360 degree viewing platform where you can get the best panoramic views of Reykjavík and 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 even having to turn your head.

3 | TJÖRNIN 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, hot geothermal waters are pumped in to defrost an area for the birds while those who can handle the cold keep warm from the romantic atmosphere and take to the ice on skates.

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 very 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 with Iceland‘s biggest concert hall suitable for a broad range of concerts and cultural events, 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 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 The descriptive name comes from the fact that it‘s the first lasting harbor in Reykjavik. The most visited area is the eastern pier where you’ll find a community of shops, galleries, electric bike and scooter rentals and guided tours in Reykjavík. You will find numerous whale watching companies willing to take you out to sea on unforgettable excursions. 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.

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.

9 | CITY HALL With an impressive, modern design, the building sits right on the northern shore of Lake Tjörnin. It’s not only offices for the mayor and city’s excutive officials, but is also open to visitors, providing internet access, an information desk, exhibition halls and a cafe. Café Öndin boasts huge glass windows so you can sit back and admire the water, bird life, nature and city surrounds. Go to the galleries to admire one of the steady streams of new and exciting exhibitions always coming through. The three dimensional map of Iceland is always 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 Icelandic hot dog.

Find these places on the centerfold map.

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

8 | THE SUN VOYAGER

EXPERIENCE

SIGHT EXPERIENCE

EXPERIENCE For more information on skyr, visit skyr.is

THE WHAT’S ON

SKYR EXPERIENCE 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 „fast-food“ 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.

MS SKYR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 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.

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.

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.

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.

For more information on skyr, visit skyr.is

MS SKYR.IS WITH BAKED APPLES

EXPERIENCE

THE ICELANDIC

Although beer and ale have been brewed in Iceland for a long time, 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. There is one thing they all have in common though, the Icelandic water; renowned for its purity and quality. Here you can read up on some of our favorite beers, all of whom you‘ll find in Reykjaviks pubs and bars.

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. This Classic type of beer has become one of the best sellers on draught in Iceland in one year. 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.

BRÍÓ The first beer produced by Borg Brugghús, Bríó is a pilsner, however unlike what most people might think, being a pilsner doesn‘t mean it‘s any less of a beer. The name comes from 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 uses German hops, giving a very distinctive taste and a sweet aroma. Along with the hops, it uses Pilsen malt and under-fermentation yeast. Brío, which has won many awards and prizes over the years, was originally brewed as the House Beer for Ölstofan (see pg. 12) and is available in liquor stores around the country as well as most bars in town.

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KALDI

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 a very mild and comfortable pilsner, with 5% ABV. You can detect a hint of sweetness in it. Kaldi is the most sold bottled beer in Iceland today and has been tremendously well received. You can get Kaldi in the liquor stores in bottles, as well as on draught at MicroBar.

KALDI DARK Most Icelanders are a bit afraid of dark beers, at least until they taste Kaldi Dark. A dark pilsner, it‘s not that much different from the regular Kaldi, as the main difference is the use of burnt malt, which provides the beautiful, distinctive dark color. Kaldi Dark is unpasteurized with no added sugar or preservatives. As mentioned – the Kaldi beers are brewed by Czech traditions, dated from 1842. Kaldi Dark is brewed using 3 different types of Czech hops. You can get Kaldi Dark in all liquor stores as well as in MicroBar on draught.

EINSTÖK TOASTED PORTER With clear notes of toffee and dark chocolate, this Porter is roasty and rich, offering a medium body that is robust, yet smooth on the palate. Toasted and chocolate malts give it a sinister black color, but its easy-to-drink taste will have you believing that there’s no need to be afraid of the dark anymore.

ÚLFUR

EXPERIENCE

BEER EXPERIENCE

The first Icelandic IPA (India Pale Ale) on the market. Úlfur IPA is in the same caliber as the best produced on the West Coast of the Unites States and probably comes to many Icelanders as a surprise regarding flavor and aroma. The aroma is of fresh citrus fruits, especially grapefruit, which can also be found in the flavor and a strong bitterness makes you crave another sip. Only American hops are used in the beer and hops are added when boiled and after fermentation, a so called “dry hopping” technique. Icelanders took to the beer immediately and it helped clear the way for smaller breweries to try new things.

LAVA

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 is the latest addition to the Icelandic Microbrewery scene, founded in 2010. 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, and as with many of the other beers mentioned, on draught in MicroBar

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This beer is unique in the Icelandic beer scene and quite possibly globally as well. Lava is a pitch black Ale, with its colour coming from dark-roasted mat, burnt in a similar way as coffee beans. The Brewmasters goal was to create a distinctive beer. Lava is described as being like a good wine – improving 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 exclusively on draught at MicroBar.

EXPERIENCE

THE TASTE OF ICELAND If you’re coming to Iceland, you will be blown away by the vibrant and unique food culture. Between the world-class restaurants with pristine ingredients and master chefs, the quaint little local flavours and the unique and unusual traditional cuisine, there is no shortage of flavourful experiences for both the adventurous explorer and the demanding connoisseur. MODERN ICELANDIC CUISINE Modern day Iceland offers every kind of food you can imagine, and many that you probably can’t. With world-class chefs working with pristine ingredients, Icelandic Restaurants are sure to be a thrill. Most restaurants will offer some traditional Icelandic dishes, such as smoked lamb, or some twist on tradition, such as a reindeer burger. Reykjavik offers any kind of international food you can imagine, sushi, thai, mexican, you name it. It offers steak houses and seafood restaurants. You can go from very high end to fast food in one block. Because icelandic farms are relatively traditional and the icelandic nature is very pure and unspoiled, the ingredients of the food 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

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You don’t get more authentically Icelandic than the hot dog. Whereas some of the more traditional food are only really eaten during the Þorri festival, Icelanders actually eat hot dogs all the time.

The Icelandic hot dog is unique in that it contains lamb in addition to the international pork and beef, and it is supposed to be eaten “með öllu” (with everything): raw chopped onions, roasted

onions, ketchup, mustard and remoulade. If you order one “with everything” up north, it will also include “cocktail sauce,” a mixture of ketchup and mayo. ICE (CREAM) LAND Icelanders, somewhat appropriately, love ice cream. They love it at any time, in fact, you can sometimes see a line at the ice cream parlour in a snowstorm. There is a long-standing debate in Reykjavík of which is better, Ísbúð Vesturbæjar or the one in Skeifan. Unless of course you’re from the north, and the obvious winner is Brynjuís. Because, well, obviously. TRADITIONAL ICELANDIC FOOD Finally, don’t miss out on the traditional Icelandic food! These dishes, prepared the same way they have for centuries, are steeped in history and... other things. There are some flavours everyone can enjoy such as the smoked lamb, flat bread, and liverwurst and some more unusual delicacies such as blood pudding and dried fish. At the far end of the spectrum you find curiosities of acquired taste such as fermented shark, singed sheep’s head and pickled ram’s testicles. These are otherwise known as “things you only eat so you can tell your friends at home you did it”. With a shot of Brennivin, an Icelandic Schnapps lovingly nicknamed “Black Death”, you can wash down your meal, along with washing away any memory you might have had of the whole affair.

Gourmet Experience

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

EXPERIENCE

WEIRD THINGS TO DO IN REYKJAVIK Many people ask us if there are some weird or unusual things to do while staying here. Of course there are! We‘re eccentric people who lived in isolation for about 1000 years. Something off is bound to happen under these circumstances. Here are some tips for weird stuff to try while in Iceland.

Okay, maybe this doesn’t sound too weird. Who doesn’t like ice cream? Try eating ice cream in the rain, in the snow, heavy winds or your regular sunny day. And during all times of day, midday, midnight, after dinner, in the morning – you name it. We like our ice cream and we enjoy it all year round. Hell if we were to limit ourselves to eating ice cream only when it’s sunny and nice then we wouldn’t have ice cream shops! Here’s a fun tip. If you’re asking an Icelander (boy or girl) out on a date, ask them to come on an ísrúntur (e. ice cream drive). It’s the typical ice breaker (pun intended) into a starting a relationship. It’s pronounced “eehs-roont-uhr”.

2 | HAVE DINNER AT THE COACH TERMINAL Better yet, eat cooked sheep heads at the

coach terminal! The main coach terminal in Reykjavik, BSÍ, is a known restaurant in Iceland. Many people go there for the traditional bus stop meals such as hamburgers or hot dogs. But the dish they are most famous for is the “kjammi og kók” which is cooked sheep’s head, served with beet stew and an ice cold Coca Cola. You just have to try it.

3 | PEE IN THE SALTY SEA When you live on an island, the language and especially proverbs will obviously revolve around the sea a lot. If you hear someone say “you’ve never peed in the salty sea” it’s being implied that you’re somehow inferior and haven’t seen anything noteworthy. This was often said about the people who lived on land and never had to experience the perils of the sea. So please pee in the sea, so you don’t come off as a total newb.

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1 | EAT ICE CREAM

EXPERIENCE

4 | GO TO THE PENIS MUSEUM No I’m not kidding. High on Laugavegur, close to the main bus stop Hlemmur, you will find the Icelandic Phallological Museum. The museum has over 200 items on display and happens to be unique in the world. All mammals you would find in Icelandic nature, such as whale, mink, mouse and goat, are represented along with the crown jewel: a human penis. Don’t miss this unusual museum while in Iceland. www. phallus.is

5 | GET NAKED! …at the local swimming pool. We constantly hear stories of bewilderment of Icelandic swimming pool habits. Most our pools are outside heated with geothermal water from the ground. We swim all year round and we’re not shy in the locker room. Do bring your bathing suits though.

…or in nature. You won’t be able to swim in the legendary Geysir (it’s almost 100° celcius). However there are tons of warm hot springs that you can take a dip into. The closest one would be right outside of Hveragerði in Reykjadalur. What are some other weird things you’ve learned about Iceland? Let us know on www. whatson.is.

AN ARTICLE BY HJALTI RÖGNVALDSSON Hjalti is passionate about everything Icelandic, whether it is nature, culture, food, drink or music – he’s even attended Iceland Airwaves 8 times! He spends his time wandering around Iceland looking for new interesting things to share. For more things Hjalti, follow him on Twitter (www.twitter.com/hjaltir)

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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

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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

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

STRANDGATA 34, HAFNAFJÖRÐUR OPEN: DAILY 12-17, EXCEPT THU 12-21 AND CLOSED TUE.

TRACK An exhibition of work by the Icelandic artists Daníel Magnússon, Guðrún Hrönn Ragnarsdóttir, Ívar Brynjólfsson, Ívar Valgarðsson, Sólveig Aðalsteinsdóttir and Þóra Sigurðardóttir. Track brings together works of interesting artists who are known for tackling abstract experiences in a tangible and impressive way. These are experienced artists who have developed and fashioned their own personal aesthetic, which is distinctive, intricate, and potent. The curator’s goal with teaming these artists up is to shed light on contemporary art creation as a force for change, and a channel for new ideas and ways of thinking. The exhibition reveals the artists’ view of inner and outer reality, while their works address our current times in the hope of making an impact. The participating artists have all been prominent on the Icelandic art scene for a long while, have held numerous domestic and international exhibitions, and their works are a part of both public and private collections in Iceland and abroad.

STURLUGATA 5, REYKJAVÍK OPEN: TUE-SUN 12-17

RUGS Jonathan Josefsson made himself a name as graffiti artist Ollio in Gothenburg during the 21st century. He stood out within the graffiti scene in Gothenburg in the way he used and placed his tags and paintings, he was also one of the first established graffiti artist in Gothenburg to reveal his identity. Whilst studying at the School of Design and Crafts he discovered the similarities between the spray can and the

carpet tufting machine and allowed his playful artistic idiom to be transferred onto carpets. With these textile works, together with his works in acrylic, indian ink and spray colours he has been seen in several exhibitions whilst still continuing to enrich the city with his graffiti.

ASÍ ART GALLERY FREYJUGATA, REYKJAVIK OPEN: TUE-SUN 13-17

LADIES, BEAUTIFUL LADIES Until October 5th. The two-part exhibition project Ladies, Beautiful Ladies by the Icelandic artist Birgir Birgisson follows up on the latest developments of his ongoing project focusing on the question

of politics of representation, addressed through the visual negotiations of blondes in our cultural environments. In Ladies, Beautiful Ladies Birgisson presents a variety of works that reach from painting on canvas via installation in the site to works on paper. What connects all the different media is the issue of how identities are made and shaped, distributed and retold – rooted and rebounded.

REYKJAVÍK MARITIME MUSEUM GRANDAGARÐUR 8, REYKJAVIK OPEN: DAILY 11-17

REYKJAVÍK CITIZENS – PHOTOS FROM A WORKING MAN In the exhibition Reykjavík citizens – photos from a working man there are many interesting sights from everyday life of people who lived in Reykjavík in 1916-1950 seen through the eye of a common man, Karl Christian Nielsen. The thing that specifies these photos and combines them is the colourful culture of triteness.

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THE NORDIC HOUSE

TRACK

EVENT CALENDAR

HAFNARBORG

EVENT CALENDAR

ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM

FRÍKIRKJUVEGUR 7, REYKJAVIK OPEN: TUE-SUN 10-17

LAUGARNESTANGI 70, REYKJAVIK HOURS: SAT-SUN 14-17

TRACKS IN SAND: SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON RETROSPECTIVE

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A selection of Sigurjón Ólafsson’s works from his studies in 1928 − 1935 in his museum at Laugarnes while later works (1936 − 1982) are exhibited in the halls of the National Gallery of Iceland, at Fríkirkjuvegur 7. Also there are sculptures by his Danish collegues from that time, Asger Jorn, Ejler Bille, Erik Thommesen, Robert Jacobsen and Sonja Ferlov.

decade of the last century. Contrasting nature, crooked trees that testifies to harsh weather gods; white glacier against a black desert or colorful vegetation of the ground emotionally moved the artist and make these paintings unique in his career. Works painted after 1940 reveals a strong emotional interpretation akin to the work of van Gogh.

EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM TRACKS IN SAND: SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON RETROSPECTIVE See National Gallery of Iceland listing to the left.

ÁSGRÍMUR JÓNSSON COLLECTION BERGSTAÐASTRÆTI 74, REYKJAVIK OPEN: TUE, THU, SUN 14-17

ÁSGRÍMUR JONSON VIEW ON HÚSAFELL The exhibition includes works from the years 1915-1955. Ásgrímur spent the summer in 1915, 1917 and 1919 at Húsafell, after that Húsafell became a regular visit for him the rest of his life. After 1940 the Húsafell became his primary dwelling at summer and most Húsafell paintings are from the fifth

EIRÍKSGATA, REYKJAVÍK OPEN: TUE-SUN 13-17

A museum in the heart of Reykjavík and houses the life work of Icelands first Sculptor Einar Jónsson.

Kolabrautin is on 4th floor Harpa Reservations +354 519 9700 info@kolabrautin.is www.kolabrautin.is

UNIQUE EXPERIENCE AND A VIEW LIKE NO OTHER

ICELANDIC FRESHNESS MEETS ITALIAN TRADITION A meal at the elevated fourth floor of Harpa concert hall is a destination in itself. Relax and enjoy fine Italian cuisine complemented with a spectacular panoramic view of ReykjavĂk and the surrounding horizon.

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM HAFNARHÚS TRYGGVAGATA 17, REYKJAVIK OPEN: FRI-WED 10-17, THU 10-20

ERRÓ AND ART HISTORY At Hafnarhús, works are always on display which provide insight into the work of Erró. The theme of this exhibition is art history itself: over the years, Erró has established a close and creative relationship with that history. Erró is well known for creating his own visual world in his collages; and in this exhibition we see works in which he has borrowed images and fragments of pictures by some of the leading artists in history, such as Picasso and Léger. He also references the work of lesser-known artists of different periods. In that way Erró may be said to write his own version of the history of art, through his works.

MOJOKO & SHANG LIANG: REACTIVE WALL Until October 19th. The interactive artwork Reactive Wall is one of several collaborations between artist Mojoko and computer programmer Shang Liang. Mojoko worked on the graphics, which comprise 200 popular icons drawn from Asian and Western contexts. Visitors interact with the work by making sounds through a microphone: the pitch and volume received is interpreted by the software, which in turn manipulates how the icons appear.

ÁSDÍS SIF GUNNARSDÓTTIR: FUTURECRASH / TRIBAL TV Until October 19th. Ásdís Sif works with performance art in her video works, which take place in different ways in various

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EVENT CALENDAR

REACTIVE WALL

SYNTHESIS

places in time and space. Her FutureCrash/Tribal TV is a large video installation which springs from a previous piece by the artist, from the exhibition Apostles’ Clubhouse (2006). This comprises a large number of video works whose narrative is unconventional, including glimpses of past and future. Ásdís Sif explores the potential of the video medium for establishing rhythm and flow, and brings out a living picture of past and future. This overlap in time references films that are set in the future, in which beings with special powers appear in mysterious places, like long-forgotten splinters of memory.

SYNTHESIS This international exhibition comprises works by seven artists: Tomas Saraceno (Argentina), Ernesto Neto (Brazil), Ragna Róbertsdóttir (Iceland), Ryuji Nakamura and Rintaro Hara (Japan), Mona Hatoum (Lebanon) and Monika Grzymala (Poland). The artists make three-dimensional installations which share the qualities of reflecting a certain perception, thinking and rhythm, which may be seen as an echo of life itself, of primal forces, the structure of the fabric of the world and the ongoing genesis of the universe. Another factor which unites the works is that they are the result of a process in which energy and time appear to have built them up.

FLÓKAGATA 24, REYKJAVIK OPEN: DAILY 10-17

KJARVAL: TOP SOIL Kjarval has served as a historic source of inspiration for Andreas Eriksson. In his works, Eriksson points out, Kjarval “chose not only to bring himself closer to earth, lava and rock types, but also to concentrate equally on the oil paint…[as if] to honourably try to return the pigments to their origin.” For the exhibition Top Soil Eriksson has selected paintings and drawings by Kjarval, which will be shown along with new work by Eriksson himself in appreciation of Kjarval’s art.

ANDREAS ERIKSSON: ROUNDABOUTS ROUNDABOUTS

A POSTERIOIR

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM ÁSMUNDARSAFN SIGTÚN, REYKJAVIK OPEN: DAILY 10-17

A POSTERIORI: HOUSE, SCULPTURE A posteriori, or from what comes after, a translation from early 17th century Latin, presents, a selection of artworks with original references to buildings or houses.

Artists in the exhibition have created the works, either from existing or fabricated architecture, to construct impressions of memories. As a feature of the exhibition, Ásmundarsafn, befittingly a sculpture and a house built by Ásmundur Sveinsson, becomes the embodiment of the reconstructed references. Ásmundur built the house in tandem with many of

the sculptures now standing in the garden, and as an enhancing component of the exhibition, on display are smaller or actual versions of these figurative works. In addition to making a direct connection to their enlargements, these figurative sculptures play into actual perceptions of scale in the exhibition, both inside and outside the house.

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Andreas Eriksson (b. 1975 in Björsäter, Sweden) is one of the most acclaimed Swedish artists of his generation. He represented Sweden at the Nordic Pavilion at the 2011 Venice Biennale and his works have been shown widely. Roundabouts, Eriksson’s first major international solo exhibition, is a collaboration amongst Bonniers Konsthall, Trondheim kunstmuseum, Centre pasquArt, Biel and Reykjavik Art Museum, with support from the Nordic Culture Fund. A catalogue published by Walther Koenig accompanies the exhibition.

EVENT CALENDAR

REYKJAVIK ART MUSEUM – KJARVALSSTAÐIR

EVENT CALENDAR

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART GARÐATORG 1, 210 GARÐABÆR OPEN: TUE-SUN 12-17

HJALTI KARLSSON THIS IS HOW I DO IT Until October 5th. Last year’s recipient of the Nordic Torsten and Wanja Söderberg prize is Hjalti Karlsson, the Icelandic graphic designer who works with clients from various countries from his office in New York. In its statement the prize jury writes: “From the newspaper page to moving graphics, from educational exhibition form to the place-specific art installation – Hjalti Karlsson’s contemporary, visual language shows traces of both classic schooling and Icelandic narrative tradition.” At the Museum of Design in Iceland, Hjalti Karlsson has an exhibition featuring works specially created for the occasion of the prize.

„ARE YOU READY, MRS. PRESIDENT?“

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The Museum of Design and Applied Art’s exhibit Ertu tilbúin

HJALTI KARLSSON

frú forseti? presents clothing and various accessories from the wardrobe of Mrs. Vigdís Finnboga-dóttir, former President of Iceland, from her years in office between 1980-1996. Vigdís was the first woman in the world to be demo-cratically elected as her country’s head of state.

VOLCANO HOUSE TRYGGVAGATA 11, REYKJAVIK OPEN: DAILY 9-22

WONDERS OF VOLCANOES From the small island Vest’-mannaeyjar, watch the awesome power of red-hot lava, seemingly irresistible as it moves in slow motion, swallowing and

crushing everything in its path. Like a sci-fi monster, you see it start to engulf a thriving community and the impending disaster as it edges to the harbour to destroy the only safe haven for the fishing fleet. Every boat is pressed into service to ferry the inhabitants to safety as they watch more of their lives disappear. Then, the 2010 eruption in Eyjafjallajökull that covered farms and villages in a deep layer of ash and an almost impenetrable fog, threatening, once again, the livelihoods of hard-working communities. A massive flood sweeps down the mountain, putting bridges along the main road linking the southern towns and villages at risk.

DON CARLO Online ticket sales at www.harpa.is Box Office at Harpa Concert Hall Tel. +354 528 5050

Giuseppe Verdi

October 18th 8 pm – PREMIERE October 25th 8 pm November 1st 8 pm November 8th 8 pm

www.opera.is

FROM REYKJAVIK Daily at 13:00 53€

All aboard foer! adventur Daily at 22:00

(to 15 OKT and at 21:00 16 OCT - 15 APR)

54€

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

SUÐURGATA 41, REYKJAVIK OPEN: DAILY 11-17

SNAPSHOTS OF A MOMENT: THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF ÞORSTEINN JÓSEPSSON. Þorsteinn Jósepsson (1907–1967) was a widely travelled author and journalist. Jósepsson’s photography presents an intricate panorama of Icelandic life and a rapidly changing rural landscape. His collection of photographs is one of the largest, most important and most comprehensive private collections from the twentieth century preserved in Iceland’s National Museum of Photography, a part of the National Museum of Iceland. The curator is Steinar Örn Atlason.

SNAPSHOTS

EVENT CALENDAR

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?

SODIUM SUN Photographs of streetlights in Iceland by Stuart Richardson.

The relentless darkness of Icelandic winter evokes images of snow-covered landscapes lit by the moon and the aurora, yet most Icelanders experience the winter under the constant glow of streetlights. Sodium Sun examines how these everpresent streetlights influence the Icelandic landscape. In Iceland, the streetlights are the first indicator of suburban sprawl, often going up long before buildings are ever built, hinting at human life where it does not yet exist. The lights are clustered in areas

where there is little traffic. They obscure the outline of landscape and all but the brightest stars. Once in their pool of light, it is nearly impossible to see anything outside of it – vast landscapes collapse into claustrophobic islands of illumination. Yet even as they block out the natural environment, there is stark beauty in the geometric forms – the artificial suns we have created to bring back the light.

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The exhibition includes about 2,000 objects, dating from the Settlement Age to the present, as well as about 1,000 photographs from the 20th century. It is conceived as a journey through time: it begins with the ship in which medieval settlers crossed the ocean to their new home, it ends in a modern airport, the Icelanders’ gateway to the world.

SODIUM SUN

EVENT CALENDAR

GIRL CULTURE

MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY TRYGGVAGATA 15, 101 REYKJAVIK OPEN: MON-THU 12-19, FRI 12-18, SAT-SUN 13-17

LAUREN GREENFIELD GIRL CULTURE Girl Culture is about the central role occupied by popular culture in the construction or deconstruction of female identity. The camera of American photographer Lauren Greenfield records the vanishing distance between a girl‘s everyday life and the idealized discourse about women in popular culture. The exhibition consists of portrait images and interviews that cast a light on the experiences and expressions of women today. In

Girl Culture the ordinary and the extreme become intertwined: a teenaged girls obsession with appearance and the privade suffering of an anorexic woman; the girl playing dress-up and the stripper wearing a schoolgirl outfit. Greenfield has turned her lens to capture the experience of modern womanhood in all its fragmentation.

MARK CHESTER – TWOSOMES The travelling exhibition Twosomes is a compilation of works from the 40 year career of American photojournalist Mark Chester. The photographs depict people, cityscapes, nature and objects that Chester has encountered during his travels in Europe, Asia, Australia and

the Americas. The series brings to light pairings in Chester‘s photographs and the dialogue between different subjects, places and periods. Mark Chester has worked as a professional photographer since 1972. His photographs and feature stories have been published in the New York Times, Washington Post, Boston Globe and Los Angeles Times, among other periodicals. Twosomes (2011) is Chester‘s most recent published photography book, accompanied by a travelling exhibition. His earlier work include the exhibition and catalogue Shanghai: In Black and White (1987) and the photography book No in America (1986).

CHECK OUT MORE EVENTS ON WHATSON.IS

EVENT CALENDAR

SEPT 25TH-OCT 5TH

OCT 7TH, TUESDAY HAFNARBORG

HARPA

»» Lunch Time Concert

»» Jóhann Kristinsson Concert

»» The festival shows a wide range of dramas and non-fiction films from over 40 countries. The festival highlights independent film making from all over the world with an emphasis on up-andcoming filmmakers.

TJARNARBÍÓ

ÁSMUNDARSAFN

»» Poetry Night

»» Kids Workshop in connection to ‘A Posteriori: House, Sculpture’

OCT 1ST, WEDNESDAY

OCT 8TH, WEDNESDAY NORDIC HOUSE »» HOW Life goes on after Death

KJARVALSSTAÐIR »» Elektra Ensemble concer

HARPA »» Kissin and Ashkenazy »» Umbilical Brothers present: Don’t Explain

OCT 2ND, THURSDAY HARPA »» Kissin and Ashkenazy

OCT 9TH-OCT 12TH MOORLAND - CHILDREN’S LITERATURE FESTIVAL AT THE NORDIC HOUSE

OCT 9TH, THURSDAY

»» Art Quiz

OCT 21ST, TUESDAY TJARNARBÍÓ »» Poetry Night

OCT 23, THURSDAY HARPA »» Russian Masterworks at Harpa

VIÐEY

HAFNARHÚS

»» Artist talk for ‘FutureCrash’

»» Imagine Peace Tower

»» Lecture at Hafnarhús

HÚRRA BAR

NORDIC HOUSE

»» Sounds Queer - Woman’s DJ night at Húrra

»» Death: Birth into the Beyond

OCT 3RD, FRIDAY

OCT 11TH, SATURDAY KJARVALSSTAÐIR »» Mini workshop for kids

»» Stevie Ray Vaughan tribute

OCT 4TH, SATURDAY KJARVALSSTAÐIR

»» Curator’s and Artist’s talk on ‘Synthesis’

»» U2 Tribute Show at Harpa

OCT 25TH, SATURDAY KJARVALSSTAÐIR »» Mini workshop for kids

HARPA

»» Sláturtíð 2014 Concert

»» Don Carlo

OCT 12TH, SUNDAY

HARPA

OCT 24, FRIDAY HARPA

HAFNARHÚS

»» Mini workshop for kids

OCT 26TH, SUNDAY

»» A Giant Love Story

HARPA

»» Led Zeppelin Tribute Concert

»» The Big Bang-John Bonham Tribute Concert

»» The Chamber Music Society #2

OCT 5TH, SUNDAY HARPA

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OCT 20TH, MONDAY TJARNARBÍÓ

HAFNARHÚS

HARPA

OCT 19TH, SUNDAY

REYKJAVIK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

»» Petri conducts the Youth Orchestra at Harpa

OCT 18TH, SATURDAY HARPA »» Don Carlo

OCT 31ST, TUESDAY HARPA »» Rumours - A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac

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

NORTHERN LIGHTS CRUISE

IMAGINE PEACE TOUR Make it’s Eldsure ing!

on Viðey island daily at 20:00 from 9 October to 8 December

daily at 22:00 from 15 Septemberto 15 October 21:00 from 16 October to 14 March

Ægisgarður 5 , 101 Reykjavík Tel. +354 519 5000 www.elding.is

g.is www.eldin 000 5 +354 519

WHALE WATCHING from Reykjavík all year round EL-01 / EL-02 / EL-03

Jan-Feb

Mar 9:00

13:00

Apr 9:00

May 9:00

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

* From 15 May to 15 September ** From 15 June to 31 July

Jul 9:00 10:00 13:00 14:00 17:00 20:30

Aug Sep 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*

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON HOUSE 6

Check out the article The Reykjavik Sight Experience on pages 16-17 for more information about the places numbered here.

REYKJAVIK CITY MAP

WHAT’S ON

THE REYKJAVIK MUSEUM WALK Reykjavik is rich with culture and history which can be experienced in the many museums that our city has to offer. To make life easier for you, here is a proposed Museum Walk that covers the best bits of downtown Reykjavik, while within a walking distance. 1

VOLCANO HOUSE

The museum gives visitors an idea of the real life in Iceland, where volcanoes and earthquakes are a constant threat. Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes occur daily and Icelandic nature is in a state of constant flux. 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-to-back documentaries on historical volcanic eruptions.

THE 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 photograpshs, photos from portrait studios, industrial- and advertising p h o to g ra p h s , p re ss p h o to g ra p hy, l a n d s c a p e photographs and more.

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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 that was established on the 24th of February in 1863. The aim of the museum is to increase and relay knowledge of Icelandic cultural heritage from the beginning until now. At the museum you will find objects that provide insight into Icelandic cultural history and displays from different eras.

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, as well as there is 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. You’ll really like the restaurant inside that has a beautiful view over the harbour. Don’t forget to stop by the Hafnarhús shop for postcards, art posters and books published by the museum.

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 as 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.

It’s been 4 years since Eyjafjallajökull (the volcano with the name everyone loves to mispronounce) reminded us all how small and powerless we are by more or less completely grounding all air traffic in Europe for several weeks. To commemorate the occasion, watchmaker RJRomain Jerome- will debut a piece in its “Earth” collection, titled Eyjafjallajökull-DNA, inspired by the eruption. With lava stone as the base of the dial, hour- and minute hands resembling airplanes, while lava seeps through the rock in a hand-drawn fissure beautifully formed in cold enamel. The overall design of the watch is retro and vintage, with a 43mm black PVD- coated steel case designed by Daniel Haas and a cool black alligator strap.

Available in a limited edition of 99 pieces, this unique timepiece juxtaposes the height of human engineering and the very pinnacle of style with the cataclysmic power of the earth and the frailty of human endeavour, ironically pitting a piece for keeping track of time, with an occasion when all of human engineering couldn’t get you from Alicante back home to work on time.

WHAT’S ON

A (TIME) PIECE OF HISTORY

Now the big question is, will Bárdarbunga be next?

Come ride with us ISK 500.- discount!* For almost 30 years Íshestar has given people an opportunity to experience the Icelandic horse on long and short trips. Horses are our passion. Come ride with us in the beautiful surroundings of our Íshestar Riding Centre. You get free transport from all major hotels and guesthouses in the capital area.

Name the magic word, "Blesi", and you will get ISK 500.- discount on the Lava tour. Only valid when paid at our Riding Centre. *Not valid with other offers.

For further information check out our website www.ishestar.is, call +354 555 7000 or be our friend on Facebook. 45

WHAT’S ON

THE

NORTHERN LIGHTS ARE BACK!

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After a, well, not-so-long summer, the winter is creeping in on us again – which means the ever elusive, yet beautiful Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are finally back!

During the ever bright summers of Iceland, they’re completely impossible to see – so a big crowd of would-be visitors to our country await the winter with excitement, as the lights are truly an impressive sight. However, there’s nothing given in this world – and neither are the Northern Lights. You’re never guaranteed to see them and luck

always plays a fair part. Sometimes they decide to play nice and dance around for awe struck visitors, but at other times they won’t show, even though all conditions indicate a light spectacle should be showing. We’ve constructed this list of useful tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your Northern Lights hunt. Nothing is guaranteed – but our hope is that these tips will be useful and aide you in your search for the beautiful Northern Lights!

DIFFERENT WAYS TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS:

GOING BY COACH:

GOING BY BOAT:

Cheap and effective – A Northern Lights tour by bus is a good way to see the lights if you’re not too concerned about a lot of people and simply travelling by bus. Perhaps not the best time if you don’t see anything – but it’s the cheapest option to see the lights, and gets the job done!

A great experience regardless of lights – Going by boat and seeing the city from the sea at night, is in itself a great experience. The boat ride is a very good choice for those that want to ensure they get something out of their tour – even if no lights are found.

PRICES FROM: 5400 KR.

PRICES FROM: 8500 KR.

The city lights block the Northern Lights!

| MAKE SURE IT’S DARK

Daylight and Northern Lights don’t go hand in hand!

| MAKE SURE THE SKY IS CLEAR

The Northern Lights appear way above the clouds!

WHAT’S ON

TO THE NOP 8 TIPS FOR RTHERN LIGHTS! 1 | GET OUT OF TOWN

| GIVE IT TIME AND BE PATIENT!

The Northern Lights don’t come out by order – be patient and you might get lucky!

| SIGHTINGS CAN NEVER BE GUARANTEED

So we’d recommend a tour that includes some great activity as well as Northern Lights hunt – so you won’t feel disappointed!

| WEAR SOMETHING WARM

It can get seriously cold, especially when the sky is clear and you’re waiting for a long time

| KNOW YOUR CAMERA!

Taking photos with a flash won’t work. Ever. A tripod and long exposure are your friends!

| ENJOY IT!

Lie down on the ground. Look up. Enjoy!

GOING BY SUPER-JEEP:

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

Exclusive and thrilling – Going in a specially modified super-jeep on a hunt for the lights is a thrilling experience that’s fun and exciting. Sights can of course never be guaranteed, but the off road action of the super jeep make for a great adventure and the lights are just an added bonus.

PRICES FROM: 19900 KR. © REYKJAVIK EXCURSION

WHAT’S ON

INTO MORDOR:

VISITING A LIVE

VOLCANO Have you ever wondered how Sam and Frodo felt when Gollum led them into Mordor? Last week I experienced that. Well not exactly that. I didn’t have a freakishly old, homicidal creature lead me to peril. I visited the eruption site in Holuhraun, which is probably the place on earth that currently looks most like Mordor. And I went there last month…twice. Let me describe the eruption site, if you haven’t been reading the news. In late August, a fissure opened in the Icelandic highlands spewing tons upon tons of molten lava up in the air. Shortly after poisonous gasses followed and the two have been spewing from the ground since. Scientists have drawn up

several scenarios of how thing might unravel, the worst being that the eruption moves under the glacier causing a catastrophic eruption with even more gasses and of course our old friend - the ash. And for some reason we are totally fascinated with this place. There’s just something about being in the vicinity of a live volcano. The stench of sulfur, the uncertainty of what happens next, the colors, the trembling earth, the fire, need I go on? You’ve seen the YouTube videos and the pictures and now you need the live show.

We have on good authority that Sir Ian McKellen actually booked a ticket with Eagle Air, through What’s On, to go visit the site. In other words, Gandalf flew on an Eagle into Mordor!

The airplane ride was a totally different experience. It’s much safer and we got much closer AND you don’t have to sit in a car for 11 hours each way.

TWICE IN ONE WEEK Like I said, I’ve been there twice in the past week, with an airplane and by truck. We got special press permission from civil authorities to go onsite, for documentary purposes. We were not allowed otherwise and for good reason. You’re really not supposed to be there without gasmasks. Driving towards the site was fun since we were all super-psyched. I had never been so far inland before. When we drew near we could see the glare from the flames in distance. I swear it was like looking into the eye of Sauron! It was a very powerful experience and the time we spent getting there were totally worth it.

WHAT’S ON

EVEN GANDALF HAD TO CHECK IT OUT!

We flew on a small private airplane with only 4 seats and no bathroom on board. After flying for almost 90 minutes we could see the volcanic plume rise above the skies. When we got closer the skies cleared up and we got a perfect view below. The strong highland winds threw our airplane front and back. We could hear the rumbling below, smell the fire and actually feel the heat through the open window. I’m pretty sure our pilot is crazy since he took us only about 100 feet over the crater. If I had a ring, I would have thrown it in! But no poisonous gas, the gas creeps along the ground. We circled the area many times and only when the memory card in my camera was full was it time to head back. I did of course pull up my phone and fired off an eruption selfie. Then we were ready to go home.

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WHAT’S ON

YOU’RE JUST A PAWN When you’re visiting an active volcano you realize how small we really are. You sit there in your tiny airplane or car and what you realize is that no matter how much you try to control your environment, you’re still only a pawn where nature is concerned. For weeks now world’s top geologists have been trying to monitor the seismic activity in the area for and they really have no clue what will happen next. This could be the start of something catastrophic, or it could fade out into nothing. AN EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME When you grow up around such natural wonders you get used to them being there. It’s still amazing how Iceland always manages to surprise me with something like this. The forces, the smell, the colors, and the landscape – it’s just mesmerizing. An advertising slogan I read once said something like “Don’t come to Iceland to see things, come to experience.” And if this isn’t the experience of a lifetime, I don’t know what is.

CRAZY FACTS »» Iceland sits between 2 tectonic plates that are constantly pulling in opposite directions causing volcanic activity and frequent earthquakes »» Most of the active volcanoes are in the highlands, causing no direct threats to people »» However, there is an active volcanic site in the backyard of Reykjavík, Hengill, which last erupted 2000 years ago. It tends to erupt every 2-3000 years. »» Bárðarbunga is the biggest volcano in Iceland. Parts of her are under 700m thick glacier! 50

»» Iceland’s most active volcano is Mt. Hekla. It’s been nicknamed “the entrance to hell” and erupts regularly, every 10 years. It last erupted 14 years ago.

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WHAT’S ON

THE HISTORY OF ICELAND IN 10 SHORT STEPS Iceland is a proud nation with a rich history. From the world’s oldest democratic parliament, to an economic crash of unprecedented size, Icelanders have a lot to boast about, and they‘re usually not shy to do so. Here we present, for the first time ever, the complete, not-really-unabridged History of Iceland, in just 10 short items. This is your unique chance to read up on major events in the history of Iceland, without having to sift through thousands of pages. Now...Let‘s start at the very beginning. 16-18 MILLION YEARS AGO: THE FORMATION OF ICELAND Iceland lies on the intersection of the American and Eurasian tectonic plates. When they started drifting apart, around 16 million years ago, it caused a major volcanic eruption, resulting in the creation of Iceland! Even today, the island still sits on a volcanic hotspot, creatively named, “The Iceland Plume” – resulting in a multitude of earthquakes every year and volcanic eruptions every few years as well.

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871 AD: THE SETTLEMENT OF ICELAND

A Norwegian named Ingólfur Arnarsson killed a man and was exiled from his home country. He sailed to a legendary land in the west with two ships. People from the Nordics engaged in a massive land grab in this uninhabited country, taking with them Irish slaves, resulting in a Norse-Celtic mix of genes in Iceland. Thanks to the almost obsessive fixation of early Icelanders with genealogy, most modern Icelanders can still trace their family lines back to this time. As a matter of fact, Icelanders can look up their entire family history on a single website, and they even have an app called Íslendingabók that makes sure they don’t date their (close) relatives. 930 AD: PARLIAMENT ESTABLISHED Being a land of renegades and runaways with no king, some system of government had to be instituted. The people of Iceland went ahead and created Althing, the oldest democratic parliament

that still exists today. In each area there was a chieftain (Goði), a political and religious leader. Every summer, all the chieftains would meet at Parliament Fields (Þingvellir) to discuss laws and settle disputes. Every year, the law speaker, standing on top of the Law Rock, would say a third of the law, completely from memory. This way, the whole law was heard every three years. The law was later written down in the book Grágás, which still exists today. Contained therein are practical laws, such as the penalty for your pet polar bear killing someone. The parliament functions to this day, uninterrupted aside from a period of 45 years from 1800 to 1845. 1000 AD: CONVERSION TO CHRISTIANITY, DISCOVERY OF AMERICA Until the tenth century, the predominant religion in Iceland was “Ásatrú”, the worship of the Norse gods, Óðinn, Þór and the like. In the 980s Christian missionaries started spreading the faith, leading to violent confrontations. The two factions asked Þorgeir Ljósvetningagoði Þorkelsson to mediate. He lay under a bear hide for a day and a night eventually coming to the conclusion that Iceland should be a Christian country. However worshipping the old gods was allowed as long as nobody found out! Iceland remained Roman Catholic until 1540, when it converted to Lutheran Protestantism. The Catholic bishops Jón Arason and Ögmundur Pálsson violently opposed the reformation. That opposition came to an abrupt end with the beheading of Jón Arason in 1550.

These and other stories are written down in the sagas of the Icelanders, an extensive body of 13th century writings. 1262 AD: ICELAND SUBMITS TO NORWAY In the years leading up to 1262, the Icelandic chieftains gradually became more and more powerful, until the whole country was in a state of constant civil war between 7 powerful clans. In order to end to the war, the leaders submitted peacefully to Haakon IV, king of Norway. The story is preserved in saga of the Sturlungs, written down as the events were taking place or shortly after. Later, in the 14th century, the Kingdoms of Norway, Denmark and Sweden became one kingdom, and when they split up again Iceland somehow wound up under Danish rule. Even today Icelanders are confused and even a little sore about the whole situation. 1602: MONOPOLY (NOT THE FUN KIND)

THE 1750S: THE ENLIGHTENMENT AND THE BIRTH OF REYKJAVÍK Until the middle of the 1750s, Reykjavík was just a single farm, and Iceland had no towns or villages of any kind. Sheriff Skúli Magnússon was a man of the

1845 AD: THE RE-ESTABLISHMENT OF THE PARLIAMENT AND THE INDEPENDENCE MOVEMENT The enlightenment came to Iceland, and with it, nationalism. Chief among the Icelandic independence campaigners was Jón Sigurðsson, whose birthday, June 17th, was later chosen as the Icelandic Independence day. The movement led to the re-establishment of the Icelandic parliament as an advisory body to the king in 1845. This was followed by home rule in 1905, sovereignty in 1918 and independence in 1944, when Denmark was too busy being invaded by Germany to do much about it. 20TH CENTURY: THE WORLD WARS AND MODERNIZATION Industry and urbanization was growing, but Iceland had quite a lot of catching up to do. 1900-1910 saw such novelties as electricity, the first car and the first trawler, which marked the beginning of the stillimportant fishing industry. In the world wars, selling products to the allies and servicing the American occupying force brought an economic boom and cultural influence, such as TV and jazz. This catapulted Iceland into the 20th century and still today the Icelandic culture has an incredible fascination for new and foreign things, technology and culture. 21ST CENTURY: CRASH AND MIRACULOUS RECOVERY Since the 1950s, Iceland’s economy was characterized by rather high inflation. In the late 1990s, the commercial banking system was privatized and the law was changed to ease restrictions on trade. Following an incredible growth in everything financial, the bubble finally burst in a spectacular manner, in October 2008. The currency of Iceland, the Króna, fell by 50% overnight. People lost their jobs, their houses, and their livelihood and finally to top it all, McDonalds left the country. Since then, Iceland has caught the attention of the international community because of how quickly the economy has recovered. Industry is operational and unemployment is under control, but wages and prices are still quite low, which means it’s a good time to visit for people with foreign money.

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In the 1500s, English and German fishermen and traders set up posts in Iceland and traded with the Icelanders. Seeing a mutually beneficial situation which brought prosperity to his subjects, Christian IV King of Denmark naturally decided he wasn’t having it. He granted exclusive rights to trade in Iceland to certain merchants. It is hard to overstate how devastating this decision was. Danish merchants could pay as little as they wanted for Icelandic goods, and charge what they wanted for imports. It led to the nation of Iceland wallowing in abject poverty, basically until the monopoly was abolished in 1786.

enlightenment. He picked Reykjavík to become the center of modernization, and pioneered the building of wool workshop buildings, one of which still stands, on Aðalstræti 10. This marked the beginning of Iceland’s rise out of the dark ages.

WHAT’S ON

The year 1000 is also when Leif “The Lucky” Ericson discovered America, or “Wine-land” as he called it. He was planning on sailing to Greenland, but was blown off course to the west, where he saw land. He later sailed there and attempted to settle, but gave it up after conflicts with the locals.

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WHAT’S ON

REYKJAVIK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 25. TO OCTOBER 5. 2014 The Reykjavik International Film Festival, RIFF, will be held for the eleventh time in Reykjavik, from September 25th to October 5th, with a variety of events and screenings of over 100 movies at Háskólabíói, Tjarnarbíói, Bíó Paradís and the Nordic House. British director Mike Leigh (‘Secrets & Lies,’ ‘Vera Drake’) will be this year’s honorary guest. More information about the Reykjavik International Film Festival can be found on the festival’s website www.riff.is and www.whatson.is

THE IMAGINE PEACE TOWER Every year the Imagine Peace Tower emerges between Lennon’s birthday and the day of his death. This powerful light is a work of art by Yoko Ono dedicated to the memory of John Lennon.

For more information about events in October, check out the What’s On Event Calendar online at www.whatson.is/ec

The Imagine Peace Tower will be lit by Yoko Ono in Viðey on October 9th at 8pm.

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The words IMAGINE PEACE are inscribed in 24 languages on the well surrounding the tower. Tours of the tower and its surroundings on nearby Viðey Island are available when the towers lights is shining.

ART & CULTURE

REYKJAVIK CITY LIBRARY

HAFNARBORG

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.

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.

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

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

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

SIGURJÓN ÓLAFSSON MUSEUM

MUSEUM OF DESIGN AND APPLIED ART

THE EINAR JÓNSSON MUSEUM

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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 Hours: Sat-Sun 14-17

THE SETTLEMENT EXHIBITION Experience Viking-Age Reykjavik at the new 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 first settlers. Aðalstræti 2, Reykjavik 411-6370 | www.reykjavik871.is Hours: Daily 10-17

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: Daily 12-17, Closed Mon

ÁRBÆJARSAFN Collection of artifacts docu-menting the develo pm ent of the city of Reykjavik. Prese ntly the muse um comprises 27 buildings, built between 1820 and 1907. Árbær, Reykjavik 411-6300 www.reykjavikmuseum.is Hours: Guided tours every day at 13.00 or by appointment.

REYKJAVIK MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY FREE ENTRY The only inde-pendent museum of photography in Iceland. 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.

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. Hallgrímstorg 3, Reykjavik 561-3797 | www.lej.is Hours: Sat-Sun 13-17

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

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FAST, FREQUENT & ON SCHEDULE EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK! The Flybus operates in connection with all arriving flights at Keflavík International Airport and your seat is always guaranteed. For our very flexible schedule kindly consult our brochures or visit www.flybus.is

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

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

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the Blue Lagoon Reykjavik Excursions offer great flexibility in Blue Lagoon tours. Flexible

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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. After having enjoyed everything that the wonderful Blue Lagoon has to offer, you can either return back to Reykjavík or be dropped off at Keflavík International Airport. Safe luggage storage at the Blue Lagoon. Storage cost is 3 EUR (500 ISK) per bag.

Reykjavík to Blue Lagoon 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00

Blue Lagoon to Reykjavík

KEF Airport to Blue Lagoon

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

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Timetable valid 1 September 2014 through 31 May 2015

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NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ICELAND

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.

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.

Fríkirkjuvegur 7, Reykjavík 515-9600 | www.listasafn.is Hours: Daily 10-17, Closed Mon

Suðurgata 41, Reykjavik 530-2200 | nationalmuseum.is Hours: Daily 11-17

Hverfisgata 15, Reykjavik 545-1400 | www.thjodmenning.is

ASÍ ART GALLERÝ

SAGA MUSEUM

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.

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.

VÍKIN MARITIME MUSEUM

HANNESARHOLT 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. Grundarstígur 10, Reykjavik 511-1904 | www.hannesarholt.is Hours: Daily 11-18

Grandagardur, Reykjavik 511-1517 | www.sagamuseum.is Hours: Daily 10-18

A unique venue dedicated to Icelandic history and cultural heritage. In the building there are facilities for exhibitions, meetings, gatherings, lectures, artistic events, public ceremonies and other occasions. On the ground floor you will find a restaurant and a souvenir shop.

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 modern trawlers and the history of trading vessels and routes and the construction of Reykjavik harbour. Grandagarður 8, Reykjavik 517-9400 | maritimemuseum.is Hours: Daily 11-17

THE LIVING ART MUSEUM

AURORA REYKJAVIK

FREE ENTRY The museum is an active exhibition space in central Reykjavik that has organized many exciting exhibitions throughout the years. They put an emphasis on introducing young Icelandic artists, as well as showcasing work done by better known Icelandic and foreign artists.

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.

Skúlagata 28, Reykjavik 551-4350 | www.nylo.is Hours: Daily 12-17, Closed Mon

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

THE CULTURE HOUSE

ART & CULTURE

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ICELAND

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

ART & CULTURE

KJARVALSSTAÐIR

ÁSMUNDARSAFN

HAFNARHÚS

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.

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.

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 1932-39 for the offices and warehouses of Reykjavik Harbor and was at that time one of the largest buildings in the country.

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

GLJÚFRASTEINN LAXNESS MUSEUM

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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.

Gljúfrasteinn, Mosfellsbær 586-8066 | www.gljufrasteinn.is Hours: Daily 10-17, Closed Mon

THE CINEMA 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 made by a re-known Icelandic filmmaker. 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. Geirsgata 7b, Reykjavík 898 6628 | www.thecinema.is Hours: Daily 12-20

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

GALLERY FOLD Iceland’s leading auction house and foremost fine arts dealership. Established in 1990, Gallerí Fold has been in the hands of its current proprietor since 1992. In 1994, they acquired their own premises, where they‘ve enjoyed a period of growth and prosperity. Their 600 m2 building has five exhibition spaces from 30 to 110 m2. Rauðarárstíg 12-14, Reykjavik 551-0400 | www.myndlist.is Hours: Mon-Fri 10-18, Sat 11-14

COLLECTORS EMPORIUM ICELAND In a basement of sorts on Hverfisgata, just off Reykjavik’s main shopping street, you’ll find this hidden gem. Imagine it as a museum where you can take home anything you particularly fancy. A vast collection of unique and historic Icelandic items, such as stamps, coins and much more, make it well worth a visit. Hverfisgata 16, Reykjavik Hours: Mon-Fri 10-18, Sat 12-16

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 Hours: Sun 14-17

NORDIC HOUSE Iceland maintains strong ties to other Nordic countries, and the center of this cooperation is the Nordic House, designed by acclaimed Finnish architect Alvar Aalto in 1968. The Nordic House is the venue to be if you want to enjoy the best of Icelandic cultural as well as experiencing rich culture of the Nordic countries Sturlugata 5, Reykjavik 551-7030 | www.nordice.is Hours: Daily 12-17, Closed Mon

The key to our 20 years of success is simple: Combining the fresh and exotic Indian spices with the best natural Icelandic ingredients in authentic preparations, to be served by friendly professionals in a comfortable ambiance Without exception!

Hverfisgata 56, 101 Reykavik Reservation: 552-1630 www.austurindia.is Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 17:30 - 22:00 and Friday - Saturday 17:30 - 23:00

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.

ve ri re d nt es ce ut ty in ci m e 15 th to

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

This is Solla, the winner of Best Gourmet Raw Chef and Best Simple Raw Chef in the 2011 and 2012 “Best of Raw” Awards. Come and try out one of her great dishes at her restaurant Gló, Iceland’s most popular health food restaurant operating at three different locations in the great Reykjavik area. Reykjavík: Engjateigur 19 and Laugavegur 20b · Hafnarfjörður: Strandgata 34 · www.glo.is

KALDI BAR

THE CELTIC CROSS

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.

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!

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.

Austurstræti 7, Reykjavik 568-1907

Laugavegur 20b, Reykjavik 581-2200

Hverfisgata 26, Reykjavik 511-3240

DEN DANSKE KRO

One of the newest and hottest clubs in Reykjavik these days, mostly attracting young people who want to dance. Electronic music is their main thing during the weekend, but on weekdays they like to play makeout music, Icelandic classics from the 80’s and 90’s and host curiously themed-pub quizzes.

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.

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.

Hafnarstræti 4, Reykjavik 571-9222

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

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

KAFFIBARINN

MICROBAR

THE ENGLISH PUB

Beer enthusiasts, look no further! In a small hole-in-the-wall kind of place just off Ingólfstorg square you will find Micro Bar. Carrying an impressive 140 different kinds of beers from all over the world, this is definitely the go-to place for beer fans.

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.

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

Austurstræti 6, Reykjavik 847-9084 www.facebook.com/ MicroBarIceland

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

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DOLLY

NIGHTLIFE

AUSTUR

SHOPPING & STYLE Find more recommendations on whatson.is

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.

GALLERÍ SMÍÐAR OG SKART

THE LITTLE CHRISTMAS SHOP

Gallery Smíðar og Skart offers a wide selection of contemporary Icelandic art. Oil paintings, acrylic paintings, watercolors as well as ceramics and glass art. Over 50 local artists have their work on display in the Gallery.

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

Skólavörðustígur 16a, Reykjavik 561-4090

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.

LISTVINAHÚSIÐ

ÁLAFOSS

METAL DESIGN

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”.

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.

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 43, Reykjavik 551-2850 www.listvinahusid.is

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

Laugavegur 8, Reykjavik 552-2412

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

LISTASELIÐ

IGLÓ&INDÍ

CINTAMANI

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.

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

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

Nowhere in the populated world does the weather change as fast, or as often as here. Thus Icelandic designers have to meet the 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

Icelandic CHILDRENSWEAR PLAYFUL & PRACTICAL DESIGNED TO PROVIDE MAXIMUM COMFORT WITHOUT COMPROMISING ON STYLE AND CREATIVITY.

Visit us at our store in downtown Reykjavík on Skólavörðustígur 4 or at our store in Kringlan mall. You can also find us online at www.igloandindi.com

SHOPPING & STYLE Find more recommendations on whatson.is

GULLKÚNST HELGU

MICHELSEN

KRAUM

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

STUDIO STAFN

HILDUR HAFSTEIN

GEYSIR

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.

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!

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.

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

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

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

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

EPAL

KRINGLAN

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.

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.

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

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

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

FOOD & DRINK

THE LOBSTER HOUSE

VEGAMÓT BISTRO

GRILLIÐ

Lobster dishes are the main focus on the menu but there is a lot more to choose from. The starters are fresh and exciting, for example the whale tataki with ginger jelly, soya and sesam vinagrette, and the carpaccio of horse with lobster, wild mushrooms and foie gras.

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. During the weekend Vegamót transforms into a bar with refreshing cocktails, a wide selection of beers and popular DJ’s playing well into the night.

Just last year they celebrated their 50th anniversary. From the very beginning, Grillid has been regarded as one of the best restaurants in Iceland. If you want fine dining, perfectly executed food, professional service and excellent wines with a spectacular view over the city, you have come to the right place.

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

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

ARGENTÍNA STEAKHOUSE

HAMBORGARABÚLLAN – BURGER JOINT

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

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.

Amtmannsstígur 1, Reykjavik 561-3303 www.humarhusid.is

AUSTURLANDAHRAÐLESTIN

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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.

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

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

SNAPS

CARUSO

LIFANDI MARKAÐUR

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”

Situated in a warm, charming old building in the heart of Reykjavik. Caruso is romantic to say the least, and serves top quality Italian- and Icelandic food. The surroundings are beautiful and the atmosphere is enchanting. The restaurant is on three floors, so it‘s ideal for groups, individuals and couples.

A modern and health conscious restaurant and whole food shop which offers a wide range of hot or cold food to eat in or take-out. The selection consists of both vegetarian food and healthy food. No white flour, white sugar, MSG is used in the food.

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

Óðinstorg, Reykjavik 511-6677 | www.snaps.is

Þingholtsstræti 1, Reykjavik 562-7335 www.caruso.is

Borgartún 24, Reykjavik 585-8700 www.lifandimarkadur.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

Enjoy

Every day from 18:00

Hugsa sér!

All your favorites

Steaks, fish´n chips, burgers, … or take at our sandwiches anda look salads menu with a variety of Icelandic delicacies

Grillhúsið Tryggvagötu - Phone + 354 527 5000 - www.grillhusid.is RR-WO_145x107_0513.indd 1 GH-RCG_145x107_0313.indd 1

Hugsa sér!

We just love it.

Aðalstræti 2 | 101 Reykjavík | Tel: +354 517 4300 | www.geysirbistro.is

22.5.2013 15:25 19.3.2013 16:41

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

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

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

KOL

BAST

PERLAN

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.

BAST - “wicker ” in Icelandic, is a lightweight material, and this restaurant focuses on light d e co r, l i g h t a t m o s p h e re a n d light dishes, such as brunch, soup and cakes.

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.

Skólavörðustígur 40, Reykjavik 517-7474

Hverfisgata 20, Reykjavik 519-7579

KAFFITÁR

Located inside Listhusid in Laugardalur valley, Glo is Iceland‘s hottest new organic restaurant. The menu consists of vegetarian- and 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.

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.

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

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

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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GLÓ

FOOD & DRINK

THE STEAK HOUSE

FOOD & DRINK Find more recommendations on whatson.is

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

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.

BORÐSTOFAN This secret lunch heaven just opened, and locals already love it. The chef is renowned for a reason, as he offers good pricing and great food, with a special emphasis on the musttry cakes and pastry. In a 100 year old house in the Reykjavik centre, Borðstofan will make you feel at home. Open every day 11am-6pm

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

Hannesarholt, Grundarstígur 10, Reykjavik 511-1904 | www.bordstofan.is

KOPAR

GRILLHÚSIÐ

73 RESTAURANT

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.

A fun restaurant, with the look and feel of an American Diner. R e a s o n a b l y p r i ce d , o f f e r i n g 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.

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!

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

Laugavegur 73, Reykjavik 555 7373 www.73.is

FISH COMPANY

KOLABRAUTIN

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.

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.

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

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

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

ICELANDIC TAPAS HOUSE Over 60 very diverse dishes to choose from and, to make things easier, special offer menus, for example the “Discover Iceland” option where you can sample Icelandic delicacies through a four course meal that includes puffin, langoustine, and Icelandic skyr pizza. Ægisgarður 2, by the old Harbour, Reykjavik 512-8181 | www.tapashusid.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

Culinary underground movement — Literally The newest addition to the restaurant flora of the capital is Kjallarinn - Kitchen Bar

Kjallarinn simply means „The Cellar“ a fitting name since Kjallarinn is literally underground. The stylish yet warm surrounding is the home of some exciting innovations in both cooking as well as cocktails, which are the inventions of master chef Eyjólfur Gestur in collaboration with the bartenders. The menu is broken up by method of cooking, on one hand the coal oven and on the other a French Planche. On the menu you can find various fish, meat and fowl and of course some interesting cocktail pairings, should you be so inclined. Enjoy!

Aðal st ræt i 2 101 Reykj aví k Tel : 517 7373 kjallarinn@kjallarinn.is

GENERAL TIPS AND ADVICE

Want to know the population of Iceland? Who‘s the president? Why there are so many beautiful women in Iceland? Why people live so far north in the cold? When is the best time to visit? We have all these answers and plenty more. We strive to have the answer to everything you might possibly want to know about Iceland, Reykjavik, Icelanders, travelling to Iceland and everything related (or unrelated) you might be seeking. If you can‘t find your answer here – just visit us on Laugavegur 4 in Reykjavik, or drop us an email on whatson@whatson.is – ask us on facebook, twitter, instagram or any other media you can imagine and we‘ll do our best to answer promptly! YOU HAVE ANY GOOD IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS FOR ME? JUST IN CASE SOMETHING UNEXPECTED HAPPENS? 112 – For every emergency you can imagine. Including if you get beat up (that’ll only happen if you’re a complete asshole by the way, we’re not a violent people. The Viking blood has been diluted over the years and with it the rage has receded) 5885522 – Every Icelander knows this number. It’s for one of the taxi stations. We won’t judge if it’s a better taxi station than the next one – but it has a catchy phone number. 58-12345 – Domino’s. What’s better than a juicy Domino’s pizza after a hard day of exploring Reykjavik? 118 – This is the phonebook and allegedly they answer all sorts of questions you might have. You’ll pay heftily for this service though.

severely injured yourself in your own home country. Apart from possibly changing the phone number you’d call – what would be your action plan? Go ahead and execute that plan – it’s likely that all the steps will align perfectly with Icelandic reality. But again. 112! That’s the number to remember. I JUST SO HAPPEN TO HAVE THIS LETTER HERE I FORGOT TO POST… CAN I DO THAT IN ICELAND? Well yes you can. There are 5 post offices scattered through Reykjavik. As well you can use the post boxes. Both the office and the boxes will be more or less red. The Icelandic word for post is póstur, so you really shouldn’t have any problems finding the correct thing. If that fails, you might want to consider joining the rest of us here in the modern day, using e-mail.

HOW CAN I CALL ICELAND? CAN PEOPLE CALL ME WHILE HERE? Your standard issue mobile phone is most likely going to work just fine in Iceland. Nowadays phones just…take care of all that complicated stuff themselves. If you really want to get down and dirty, the country code is +354 and the phone numbers have 7 digits. IS IT SAFE FOR ME TO DRIVE IN ICELAND? Unless you’re a complete asshole – driving should be quite safe. We drive on the right side and the speed limit is 90km/h. One major point to keep in mind though, is that the weather changes ridiculously fast and the driving conditions can get seriously disgusting, slippery, snowy and whatever. Drive according to situation always!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I JUST SEVERELY INJURED MYSELF. WHAT SHOULD I DO? Hmm… You should almost certainly start by calling 1-1-2. That’s the emergency phone number in Iceland, one you should generally use in all sorts of life threatening perils. After that you should judge the nature of the injury. Honestly though – Imagine you just

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS I HEARD ICELANDIC FOOD IS DISGUSTING, WHAT‘S UP WITH THAT? It‘s not really. Well, some of it is, sure, but the regular food is honestly just that, regular food. You have to keep in mind that back in the day, Iceland was dirt poor and isolated in the middle of the ocean. So we really didn‘t have much choice when it came to culinary development and enhancements. Summer was about hoarding as much food as possible, just in order to survive winter. However, having plenty of food in August is not going to help at all if it‘s all destroyed and disgusting in April is it? So the ingenious Icelanders of yore had to figure out ways to preserve the food and did so by inventing methods of varying foulness, ranging from not foul at all (drying, smoking, salting) to quite foul and even very foul (fermenting stuff in sour whey, leaving stuff in barrels for weeks and calling it “processing”, when in fact things are just going bad.) As a result, some of the traditional Icelandic food has an acquired taste. A lot of it is quite delicious though. For more information, please refer the article “The Taste of Iceland,” on page 8. WHAT CAN YOU TELL ME POSITIVE ABOUT THE FOOD?

Skyr, Hangikjöt, Harðfiskur, Kleinur, Laufabrauð. We have plenty. Modern Icelandic cuisine is awesome. Icelandic fish is by default superb, and the lamb is great as well. Visiting modernday Iceland is not going to leave you disappointed when it comes to food. As stated earlier – refer to “The Taste of Iceland,” which touches on the high-end stuff. Oh and of course our “Food & Drink” section only covers great stuff. Promise.

WHO WANTS SECONDS?

ARE YOU REALLY ESKIMOS? Where did you even get that idea from? No we‘re not. SINCE YOU GUYS LIVE IN IGLOOS, DO YOU HAVE INTERNET? The igloo joke is not funny. At all. We are serious folk, living in serious looking houses, with roofs and doors and electricity and stuff. Yes we have internet. Actually, we have like, the highest internet penetration in the world. Practically everyone in Iceland has access to internet.

You can literally leave your wallet on the ground and either some one will deliver it to you, the nearest police station, or it‘ll still be there the next morning. WHAT ABOUT TROLLS AND ELVES AND STUFF? SHOULD I WORRY? Nah, not really. Unless you provoke or irritate them, in that case you should run.

WHAT ABOUT…PROPER INTERNET, LIKE WI-FI AND STUFF? Yeah. We have that as well. You’ll have access to 3G, 4G, LTE, Wi-Fi and a multitude of other cool standards and abbreviations. Majority of café’s, restaurants, hotels and other frequented places are going to offer free Wi-Fi. I JUST GOT MUGGED! WHAT SHOULD I DO??? No you didn‘t get mugged. You don‘t get mugged in Iceland.

ARE ICELANDERS COOL? (PUN INTENDED) That was an awful pun. But yeah – we are… Have you seen the Of Monsters and Men kids? Or Björk?

e c r u o s A alth e h f o

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Hot t ubs and jacuzz i

Sa un as , steamb at hs an d sh ow er s

*Admission February 2014. Price is subject to change ge

Reykjavik's Thermal Pools

O N LY

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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. 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).

Tel: +354 411 5000 • www.spacity.is

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

UNDERSTANDABLE CONCERNS YOUR LANGUAGE DOESN‘T MAKE SENSE, ARE YOU REALLY SPEAKING REAL WORDS? No, this is just an elaborate scheme we put in action whenever there’s a foreigner around. In reality our language is Spanish, because we used to do a lot of business with the Spanish some hundreds of years ago. We sold them salted fish in bulk, in exchange for red wine. That was a great deal… Okay, in reality. Yeah…Icelandic is a real language, spoken by some 300.000 Icelanders. It’s related to the other Scandinavian languages, Swedish, Danish and Norwegian, though it doesn’t really sound similar. WHY ARE THERE SO MANY BEAUTIFUL WOMEN IN ICELAND? This is not coming from us, but according to some people, it‘s because, back in the days, the Vikings went over to England and stole all the beautiful women from them, which resulted in Iceland being a disproportionally beautiful nation, as opposed to the English… This is not something we honestly believe though – the official story is Lýsi, high quality fish and a biased, yet favourable, general opinion on beauty standards. DOES EVERYONE SPEAK ENGLISH IN ICELAND? Yes. And most of us know some pretty difficult words as well!

LIFE IN THE NORTH CAN BE A BIT SNOWY AND DARK

HOW BIG IS YOUR COUNTRY? Size really doesn‘t matter, so we‘re not too worried about that…But, we‘re talking 103,000 high-quality km²‘s (40,000 sq mi). Iceland is actually the worlds 18th largest island, which isn‘t really that impressive. WHAT’S THE POPULATION OF ICELAND? Roughly 320.000. That’s thousand, not millions. Yes – we have about the same amount of people as Santa Ana or Riverside California. Or one tenth of Berlin (Germany) or Madrid (Spain) if that scale makes more sense. Less than Bilbao (Spain), Cardiff (UK) and Nice (France). More than Utrecht (Netherlands), Bari (Italy) and the renowned town of Wirral (UK). Stop making fun of us. We’re blond, tall and strong. Who cares we’re just a handful. We’re statistically good at everything.

WHY DO PEOPLE LIVE SO FAR NORTH IN THE COLD? Meh … It’s a mixture of reasons really. Firstly – we were born here, so we’re just used to it and don’t know anything else Secondly – we have some seriously warm clothes up here, so we’re not that cold all the time. Thirdly – Iceland is packed with steaming water pouring from the ground here and there, so our houses are warm all the time. Now on top of that – Iceland is BEAUTIFUL! It’s like…jawsto-the-ground stunning at times. We have Aurora borealis, waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, volcanoes and a multitude of other super cool awesome amazing stuff. That alone makes living here a dream.

CHECK OUT MORE ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ONLINE ON WHATSON.IS/FAQ 80

All the games and all the action on Big HD Screens.

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MOUNTAINEERS.IS Tel: +354 580 9900 ice@mountaineers.is www.mountaineers.is 21.5.2014 11:42

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

E&Co.

ICELANDIC WOOL

WORN OUT FOR CENTURIES We o ff er c lo t h i n g & o t h er m er c h a n d i s e t h at r em i n d s u s o f g o o d old Ic el a n d

– V i s i t o u r s t o r e s : 101 R e y k j a v í k , A k u r e y r i a n d G e y s i r, H a u k a d a l . w w w. g e y s i r. c o m –