WOW magazine - Issue 3 2017

e azin mag ISSUE THREE 2017

HIGH FIVE FOR WOW!

PLUS: WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DAM A RIVER?

Y O U R F R E E C O P Y -TA K E M E W I T H Y O U

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WOW Power to the people

Bandeau Bra,

2799,-

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HOTEL GEYSIR elegaNt restauraNts, spa with hot spriNg jacuzzi, beautiful Nature & fuN activities

Geysir TOp 25 besT places TO phOTOgraph On The planeT earTh popphoto.com

Nice aNd cozy rooms iN chalet or oNe wiNg hotel right opposite of the hot spriNg geyser area gourmet a la carte restauraNt local luNch buffet every day hotel & spa outdoor activities all year rouNd amaziNg NortherN lights

Welcome,

hotel geysir 4

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WELCOME TO G EYSIR the geysir ceNter is directly opposite of the geothermal area of the great geysir aNd strokkur e

I

geysir glima bistro Coffee house With freshly ground Coffee sWeet iCe Creams & Cakes traditional iCelandiC meat soup fish soup & vegetarian soup loCal food museum of hot springs, volCano and iCelandiC glima

The geysir cenT er haukadalur www.geysircenter.com / www.geysirglima.com / tel: +354 480 6800 / geysir@geysircenter.is www.facebook.com/hotelgeysir / www.twitter.com/hotelgeysir Issue three 5

Descend 120 metres into a volcano

of twenty places “in One the world you must see before you die. ” - CNN 6

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& explore an underground world.

The world feels a little “ more remarkable having seen the inside of its machinery. ” - Financial Times -

BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE AT: INSiDE

No Words can “ properly describe the awe in this experience! ” - Trip advisor review -

�VOLCANO.com

Standing inside “ a volcano is a strangely emotional experience.”

- The Guardian Issue three 7 InsideTheVolcano.com

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We look forward to seeing you Please book in advance at bluelagoon.is

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IN THIS ISSUE

POWER TO THE PEOPLE – ISSUE TRHEE 2017

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12 A LETTER FROM THE CEO 16 SECRET SOLSTICE The world’s “most unique music festival” returns to Reykjavík this June.

A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVING IS EASY Last night I had a nightmare, summer was over, school had already started again and the family’s normal routine was in full swing. I tried to remember what I’d done this summer but couldn’t; it had rushed by in a blur. “Boy that summer surely went right by,” I said to my husband who gave no comment. The worst of all was the feel­­ing I’d missed out on something great.

When I woke up, I was happy to discover it was still May. Icelandic summers are short, and for those of us who live here all year, summer can pass by at an alarming speed despite all those bright summer nights. If you are a guest in Iceland, this is the perfect season to go further north.

There’s almost no danger of closed roads or horrible weather, all the shops and seasonal restaurants are open and nature is ready to welcome everyone that comes to experience it. Go visit the wild West Fjords, the natural wonders of the North or the ethereal beauty of the East. And while the South Coast is the easiest to explore with a lot of famous natural gems, don’t miss out on the less traveled parts of Iceland. They’re only less traveled because they’re further away from the capital.

I recommend going out and enjoying the Icelandic summer whether you’re a guest or a native. All too soon, I’ll be writing an editor’s letter about the fall colors, wondering what happened to my summer. Until then, I’m going to try to live in the summer moment.

ma gaz

THE FOOD ISSUE WOW MAGAZINE – HIGH FIVE FOR WOW!

ine

Happy summer travels, Guðrún Vaka Helgadóttir Editor in chief

ISSUE THREE 2017

HIGH FIVE FOR WOW!

POWER TO THE PEOPLE 2015 Issue three 2017

PLUS: WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DAM A RIVER?

Y O U R F R E E C O P Y -TA K E M E W I T H Y O U

On the cover We got the unique opportunity to play in WOW air’s brand new Airbus A320neo, aka TF-NEO, a few days after it arrived, wanting to recreate the retro feeling of air travel advertisements from the 40’s and 50’s in our own style.

We got two members of the WOW crew to pose for us, Anna Gréta Oddsdóttir and Hjörtur Eyþórsson, and had a blast while photographer Sigurjón Ragnar Sigurjónsson shot an endless number of pictures.

18 INSIDE THE VOLCANO A short drive from Reykjavik City, the silent volcano Thrihnukagigur (Three Peaks Crater) left its magma chamber empty over 4,000 years ago allowing curious travelers to explore its secrets today.

22 HOW YOUR CHANGE COULD MAKE A BIG CHANGE WOW air wants to offer you the chance to give back to nature by donating directly to Landvernd, an organization dedicated to protecting and restoring Icelandic nature.

WOW Power to the people

80 THE VATNAJOKULL REGION Filled with contrasts, the Vatnajökull Region is a great destination all year round.

24 TWEETS OF THE MONTH We love our awesome twitter friends!

26 ÁSGEIR’S AFTERGLOW Icelandic electropop artist Ásgeir Trausti just released a new album, Afterglow.

30 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DAM A RIVER? We agree that sinking big areas of land to produce electricity for aluminum smelters might not be the best thing but sometimes it uncovers a hidden wonder.

34 FIVE YEARS OF WOW At the end of May, WOW air celebrated its 5th anniversary with a big party. We want to take you through the five-year history of WOW air because, as a small start-up in the aviation business, getting this far was never guaranteed.

42 GUIDING CAIRNS If you go on any hikes in Iceland, chances are you’re going to see a cairn or two. We strongly discourage you from building your own, because cairns are more than just a pile of rocks.

46 WOW CITYBIKE WOW air is bringing WOW citybikes to Reykjavik and they’re kind of a big wheel!

50 THE WOW WORD OF ADVICE Iceland is the land of fire and ice and when the fire melts the ice, you get a whole lot of water, sometimes boiling, sometimes freezing and sometimes cascading from cliffs.

70 WOW CYCLOTHON 2017 WOW Cyclothon is not just a race around Iceland, it’s an unforgettable experience that everyone who can ride a bike should try at least once in their life.

74 WOW DESIGN Hildur Hafstein’s ethically sourced and handcrafted jewelry is both exquisitely colorful and feminine.

76 HIGHLIGHTS FROM DESIGNMARCH 2017 For a whole week in March each year, Reykjavik is dedicated to Icelandic design with around 100 events, parties and workshops. Let’s take a look at some of the highlights.

Attention advertisers!

Will your company be in our next issue?

Contact our advertising representative and he’ll make it happen.

He’s just that good! halli@wow.is

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Five years of WOW

84 THE U.S. CUSTOMS DECLARATION FORM What is this? Why do I need to fill it out?

WOW Destinations

116 THIS AND THAT …mainly this.

88 The young city of Tel Aviv Tel Aviv manages to effortlessly combine its easy-going lifestyle with a fast-paced high-tech industry attracting both young Israelis and internationals looking to spend their afternoons in the sun.

122 WHAT’S GOING ON? …quite a lot, actually.

92 Antiquing in France If you like ferreting about at flea markets and antique shops, antiquing in France is for you.

128 BORED ON BOARD? Solve these sudokus.

94 Bristol in a weekend Ranked in the top 10 of global cities by one travel guide series, Bristol’s been given the accolade of “Best Weekend Destination in the UK.” 96 Celebrate in Montréal Summer is in the air and with it comes the promise of new discoveries and excitement. So why not discover Montréal, one of North America’s most inspiring cities on the planet?

98 A visit to Annapolis Known by locals as “A Museum Without Walls,”Annapolis, Maryland, is the state capital and just minutes away from BWI Airport.

100 The best of Chicago Chicago is a city filled with possibilities and no shortage of exciting, fun things to do.

102 24-hours in Edinburgh Shopping in Edinburgh is a fantastic experi­­­ence catering to all tastes, styles and budgets.

104 The fashion districts of Brussels Practicality and innovation are the keywords associated with designs from Brussels.

106 Amsterdam—a Dutch treat Saul Schwartz and his wife Fern celebrated their first wedding anniversary with a trip to the Netherlands. Here’s how they spent their time in this great city.

126 WOW HOROSCOPE What’s in your future? WOW air’s famed astrologist has the answer.

130 THE TRAVELING INQUISITION Easy access to the unspoiled wilderness is a privilege that photographer Kristján Ingi Einarsson considers his duty to share with the whole world.

WOW MAGAZINE STAFF Editor in chief: Guðrún Vaka Helgadóttir Design and layout: Ivan Burkni ivanburkni@gmail.com Proofreading: Paul Michael Herman Contributing writers: Eygló Árnadóttir, Pamela Hunt, Einar Skúlason, Gerður Harðardóttir, Einar Páll Svavarsson, Caron R. Luteran, Kimberly JY, Krista Connor, Cindy-Lou Dale, Andrew Parsonage, Judy Colbert, Saul Schwartz.

© WOW air Katrínartún 12 105 Reykjavík Iceland

WOWAIR.COM Tel: 00 354 590 3020 E-mail: magazine@wow.is Oddi environmentally certified printing company All rights reserved. Reprinting, direct quoting or recapitulation prohibited except with a written permit from publisher.

108 The ABC’s for a trip to Miami These essential tips will help you make the most out of your trip to the Magic City.

110 Pittsburgh’s Great Allegheny Passage You can bike 334 miles on the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal paths from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C. Krista Connor checked out this famous cycling route.

112 You want more?

Check out our other WOW destinations.

Where do you want to go?

P.S. WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR VERY OWN COPY OF WOW MAGAZINE? Take this one with you or contact us through magazine@wow.is and we’ll send you a printed copy.

You can also check out WOW magazine online at wowair.com.

Waiting for summer.

66north.com Issue three 13

A LETTER FROM THE CEO

TIME FLIES WHEN YOU‘RE HAVING FUN!

Dear friends, I can’t believe it’s already been five years since we flew our inaugural flight to Paris on May 31, 2012. It has been an incredible journey and few if any would have guessed that now five years later we have flown with almost 5 million guests to over 30 destinations, have 1,100 employees and operate one of the youngest fleets in the sky with 17 Airbus aircraft. I am tremendously proud of our “little” WOW and what we have achieved to date but as I look back I am first and foremost grateful for the amazing WOW team that has made the WOW dream a reality. Our fantastic team from all over the world is working around the clock to ensure you a safe and enjoyable journey at unbeatable prices. I am not exaggerating when I say that nobody believed that we could do it. However, through great dedication, persistence, teamwork, intelligence and, of course, a healthy dose of luck, the team has built a unique airline that today is recognized around the world as one of the leading long-haul low-cost airlines in the world as well as for our purple planes and happy atmosphere.

There have been many incredible WOW moments, but a few highlights that I must mention are when we got our first aircraft on our own registry in 2013, an Airbus A320 named TF-WOW, also when we signed the first purchase of four brand new Airbus A321 directly from Airbus in 2016 and last but not least, when we took delivery of our three Airbus A330, the largest aircraft ever flown on scheduled flights to and from Iceland, and added Los Angeles and San Francisco to our fast growing network.

Finally, we could not have done this without you, our beloved guests! I am humbled and honored by the great feedback and reception that we have received over the years, and I can’t thank you enough for choosing WOW air. On behalf of the entire WOW team, we thank you for your trust and support and look forward to flying with you to new and exciting places as we continue to expand and dream up new destinations… And we’re just getting started!

Sincerely, Skúli Mogensen Founder and CEO of WOW air

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BOOK ONLINE WWW.NORTHSAILING.IS OR CALL +354 464 7272 Issue three 15

Secret Solstice

Unique venues at the brightest music festival What do you get when you combine a varied selection of incredible music from Iceland and abroad, a weekend of never-setting sun in Reykjavík, and phenomenal experiences like the only party in the world inside a glacier?

Dubbed the “Most Unique Music Festival on Earth” by several media outlets, Secret Solstice will be held for the fourth time in 2017, between the 16th and 18th of June in Iceland’s capital.

HEADLINING WHO? Legendary rock act Foo Fighters head up this year’s lineup, bringing their mass­ ive live show to Reykjavík. Masters of hardcore electronic music The Prodigy will keep the beat pumping. Rounding out the live contingent, the Queen of Funk Chaka Khan will entertain guests young and old under the never-setting sun at her first ever show in Iceland.

THE SUN DOES WHAT? Icelanders are well accustomed to the sun never going down over summer months, however, for foreign guests it’s an extremely special event to witness.

As Secret Solstice is held during the longest days of the year, everyone there will experience the mystique of the midnight sun with a party the likes of which they’ve never experienced. But it’s not all about the natural phenomena; being a festival, it’s the music that will

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steal the show at Secret Solstice 2017.

And with an estimated 130+ names on offer, there’s sure to be something for everyone.

MORE THAN UNIQUE Beyond the main event, Secret Solstice also features some phenomenal addon experiences for a small number of guests, in the form of ultra-special side parti­es with concepts not reflected at any other event, like their Midnight Sun Boat Party, where a handful of people dance as they sail on the Atlantic Ocean after midnight.

The most well-known of these is easily the Secret Solstice presentation Into the Glacier, having been hosted since 2015.

Held within a 500-meter long tunnel carved within Langjökull—Europe’s sec­ ond-largest glacier—each event will be attended by only 125 guests, who will get the chance to party inside a cavernous expanse of 10,000-year-old ice.

This year Secret Solstice has announc­ ed an all-new side event in one of the world’s most unique places, a lava tunn­ el formed 5,000 years ago! Located in the Raufarholshellir lava tunnel system

Masters of hardcore elec­tronic music The Prodigy will keep the beat pumping.

Round­ing out the live contingent, the Queen of Funk Chaka Khan will entertain guests young and old under the never-setting sun at her first ever show in Iceland.

outside Reykjavik the event, Secret Sol­stice presents The Lava Tunnel, will be held for the first time ever on two dates, the 17th and 18th of June. Guests are sure to be stunned by an acoustic performance by a prominent Icelandic artist (to be revealed when each show sells out), as well as be part of a special tour within the subterranean lava tubes.

JOIN THE PARTY Limited tickets to Secret Solstice 2017, spectacular side event are available now via the Secret Solstice website, while they last. v

Go to secretsolstice.is and find tickets and meet us at the greatest summer party in Iceland.

COLLECT MOMENTS - NOT THINGS! “Iceland had always been one of my dream vacations.

The island’s untamed and beautiful landscape make it the perfect destination for a nature enthusiast.

Not only did I finally get to come to Iceland, but I also decided to take my first ever helicopter ride. I flew with Nordurflug Helicopter Tours and they made all my wildest flight dreams come true. Not only did they have lots of tour options, but they were super flexible with working around my travel schedule. I ended up choosing the Geothermal Tour at 49.900 ISK per person.

The pricing was comparable to other activities in Iceland, but this experience allows you to see the country from the sky!

"it was just us and nature."

Unlike being in an airplane, the takeoff in a helicopter is smooth. If I had any nerves about the flight, they immediately vanished at the sight of the stunning landscape.

I was amazed by how quickly the scenery changed from the city skyline, to lava fields and volcanic craters. Being up in a helicopter gives you a true perspective of the country as a whole. The experience was worth every penny and more.

“we actually got to land on an old volcano and were able to witness up close the untamed power of geothermal energy” As if flying wasn’t enough, we actually got to land on an old volcano and witness the untamed power of geothermal energy. I got to stand right next to the boiling mud pots and hot springs without other tourists blocking the view and no safety ropes holding us back… it was just us and nature.

Our pilot was very personable, knowledgeable about the country, and a veteran pilot. I was amazed to find out he has done aerials for some big film productions like Star Wars and Oblivion. Needless to say, he kept our tour very interesting!

Once we got back to the office, it took me awhile to actually “get back on the ground”. This experience was so thrilling and incredible, I had to let it all sink in!

It’s no wonder that Nordurflug is one of Trip Advisor's top-rated Iceland experience. I will definitely be recommending this to anyone visiting Iceland!"

Use the promo code WOWAIR for a 5.000 ISK discount of the Geothermal Tour when booking on our website www.helicopter.is.

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+ Issue three 17

Inside the volcano

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FEELING ALIVE IN A CHAMBER OF DARKNESS On my sixth day in Iceland, I allowed myself to be lowered into a volcano. Thrihnukagigur had fallen silent 4,000 years ago, so bubbling magma wasn’t an issue. What makes this chamber unique is that during its last eruption, the magma either drained down into the earth or solidified onto the walls, leaving the heart of the volcano open.

by Pamela Hunt Photos: Courtesy of InsideTheVolcano.com

D

uring the 30-minute shuttle ride from Reykjavik to Bláfjöll Ski Resort, the tour’s meeting place, I thought about what I expected from this excursion. I envisioned the empty crater as a natural san­­ctuary, insulated from the hubbub of downtown Reykjavik’s crowded streets. I was seeking a mo­­ment of silence, a cessation from excessive stimulation so I could just breathe in the tran­­ quility of nature.

A NEWLY DISCOVERED WONDER Though the volcano has been a part of Iceland’s landscape for thousands of years, its unusual chamber was discovered in 1974, by a young caver named Árni Stefánsson. Despite the stories that this was a bottomless pit filled with toxic gasses, after persuading his friends to lower him through the opening on a rope, he got his first glimpse of the empty volcano. Then in 1992 Árni returned to the chamber with better equipment to study this anomaly further. In 2010, National Geographic ap­­proached him and the other founders of the Inside the Volcano tour for assistance while making a documentary about volcanoes.

To get camera equipment safely into the cham­­ber, the caving team exchanged their ropes and climbing equipment for a modified window-wash­­ing elevator. The current system was specially de­­signed for this tour and undergoes a stringent safety inspection each year.

HIKE OR HELICOPTER? After disembarking from the shuttle at the ski resort, we met our guide Guðmundur—Gummi, for short— and set off down a path of crushed black rock on the two-mile trek to the volcano’s entrance. With his long legs, Gummi set a brisk pace as he wended his way through the lava toward the three peaks that give the volcano its name: Thri­­hnukagigur, translated as “Three Peaks Crater.” During the walk, he explained that the guides are trained in geology and the history of Iceland as well as first aid and rescue. Most have been with the company since its founding. The company also offers helicopter transport from Reykjavik’s domestic airport for visitors who do not want to or cannot hike to the volcano. The hike there and back, plus the time in the volcano takes about four hours.

MIND THE GAP The light green moss gave the lava field the ap­­pearance of an expanse of soft, cushy lumps, but touching a large boulder next to the path shattered this illusion. Though the moss was indeed fluffy to the touch, the lava beneath was rough and sharp. Steam rose from scattered fissures and fumaroles; the sulfurous openings that told of Iceland’s active geology.

The compelling aroma of lamb stew greeted us at the base camp. After finishing my Styrofoam cup of the filling lunch, I fumbled into a mountaineering harness and helmet and made my way up the rebar ladder that led to the volcano’s entrance.

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Inside the volcano

Though the volcano has been a part of Iceland’s landscape for thousands of years, its unusual chamber was dis­covered in 1974, by a young caver named Árni Stefánsson.

Stepping onto the swaying platform, I felt the tug of the climbing harness straps pulling tight against the backs of my thighs. The eight-foot-by-three-feet open-sided elevator wiggled back and forth as each of the other five passengers stepped aboard. Gummi unhooked us one by one from the guidelines that connected us to solid ground and reattached our carabiners to the elevator’s railing. A motor whirred to life, and we be­­gan the slow 400-foot descent.

IT REALLY IS SOMETHING! The walls of the crater’s entrance narrowed, and the elevator’s sides scraped the wet, mossy surface. As we ent­­­­er­­ed the darkness of the vol­­cano’s chamber, the colors embedded in the walls told the story of an array of minerals: the brick red of iron, lemon yellow of silica, muted orange of sulfur, majestic purples of iron and copper, and the matte black of scorched rock.

“Get clear of the landing zone,” Gummi said as we neared the chamber floor. He tilted back his head, and the thin beam of his headlight illuminated a constant shower of water drops and small stones that were dis­­lodged when we squeezed through the bottleneck of the entrance. “Some of the rocks can be quite large,” he explained, “and sometimes, people drop their phones or cameras.”

Once safely away from the landing zone, I leaned against a large rock and took a deep breath.

“It’s something, isn’t it?” commented Gummi, who had pulled himself up on the boulder next to mine. I watched him as he looked around the immense vault, tall enough to accommodate the Statue of Liberty and wide enough for three basketball courts side by side, with the entrance a mere twinkling star in the dark­­ ness above us. Despite what was likely his sixth or seventh visit of the week, not to mention all the trips he’s made into the chamber over the summer, his eyes still sparkled with a sense of wonder.

And it was something. Some of my braver fellow travelers were picking their way around the edges of the chamber, their headlamps whipping this way and that. The glow of iPhone flashlights danced across multi­­ col­­ored mineral seams in the walls. But I remained where I was, breathing in the cool air, which held just a hint of mustiness. The rock I leaned against was damp, but not wet, and it grounded me in place.

IN THE PEACEFUL DARKNESS

Want to explore the depths of the volcano for yourself? For more information on trips with Inside The Volcano go to insidethevolcano.com

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My usual instinct when visiting somewhere new is to peek in every nook and cranny, to ask never-ending questi­­­­ ons, to make sure I leave no stone unturned in my quest to learn all I can and see everything there is to see. Here, though, I just stayed silent and soaked in the experience without taking a step. The peaceful dark­­ness; the quiet hush of footsteps on stone; the calming sanctuary of the chamber—it’s nature’s cathedral.

World-renowned volcanologist Haraldur Sigurdsson described Thrihnukagigur as “unique… It’s like some­­ body came and pulled the plug, and all the magma ran out of it.” Since Árni Stefánsson first descended into the chamber in 1974, people have wanted to explore this astonishing subterranean chamber. Now, I can under­­stand their interest because this place should not exist. Standing in the midst of the soft darkness, hear­ing the water drip, drip, drip from the entrance hole, you feel more alive than you would have thought possible. v

Proudly Making Iceland a Hot Destination.

We could talk forever about how interesting our clean energy production at Hellisheidi is. But, instead, let’s see what some of our guests at the Geothermal Exhibition have to say on TripAdvisor: “A must see activity”, “Bucket List”, “... interactive and inspiring”, “Now I’m impressed!”

ENNEMM / SÍA /

N M 76 5 3 5

We hope to welcome you too on your trip to Iceland at the most powerful exhibition in the world.

Only 20 min. drive from Reykjavík.

A perfect stop on your way to or from the city.

Issue three 21 The exhibition is open every day from 9:00-17:00. Please direct any inquiries to exhibition@on.is Tel: (+354) 591 2880 www.geothermalexhibition.com

Leave something for the Icelandic nature

HOW YOUR CHANGE COULD MAKE A BIG CHANGE Phenomenal nature is the top reason for visiting Iceland but the Icelandic nature is fragile and could use a little help. For this reason, WOW air wants to offer you the chance to give back to nature by donating directly to Landvernd, an organization dedicated to protecting and restoring Icelandic nature.

Photos: Courtesy of Kristjån Ingi Einarsson – www.kristjaningi.is

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After most trips to foreign lands we usually come back with a few coins or more of a currency that we can’t use at home. Some save it but then forget it on their next trip. Others might give it to their kids to play with or fool a bus driver or two.

We’d like to offer you another option: Donate it toward a great cause.

HOW CAN I HELP? In the seat pocket in front of you, there’s an envelope where you can leave any foreign change or other leftover currency that you’d like to contribute. Your donations will be sent directly to Landvernd who will use the

WOW air has promised to match all donations to double the amount sent to Land­vernd. Let’s all help Landvernd make sure that Ice­­landic nature will still be as incredible when our grand­­kids come to visit.

funds to support its efforts to safeguard and protect Icelandic nature. In particular, they will be used to enhance the campaign for a national park in the Central Highland of Iceland, to develop a new volunteering program in soil and land restoration of degraded birch woodlands, and in efforts to influence policy and decision making relating to the environment.

WOW air is simply the means of tran­­ sporta­­tion. The donations come from you, our guests, and go straight to Landvernd where they will be put to good use. WOW air has promised to match all donations to double the amount sent to Landvernd.

Let’s all help Landvernd make sure that Icelandic nature will still be as incredible when our grandkids come to visit.

WHAT IS LANDVERND? Landvernd, the Icelandic Environment Association, is a non-profit environmental and nature conservation organization established in 1969. The main goals of Landvernd are to protect Iceland’s nature and environment, restore degraded en­­ viron­­ments and promote sustainability in Iceland among residents and visitors alike. This is done through education, by influencing lawmaking and decision mak­­ing and by taking action. Since people have become more aware of the danger to nature, in the last five years Landvernd has grown tenfold and now has about 5,000 members.

LANDVERND’S NATURE CONSERVATION EFFORTS Over the last two decades, Landvernd’s efforts have increasingly concentrated on protecting Iceland’s unique wilderness and landscapes, especially in the uninhabited Central Highland of the country—the jewel of Icelandic nature. Also, in the last 15 years, Landvernd has expanded to become one of Iceland’s leading organization in en­viron­­mental education.

With education as its central theme, it has been running the international Eco­-Schools program in about half of the schools in the country, in addition to a num­­ber of long-term projects, for example, on food waste, sustainable tourism, clean beaches and mar­inas, invasive species and off-road driving Over the past three years, Landvernd has furthermore focused on working with municipalities on climate change and

soil and land restoration with schools.

“We successfully apply our rights under the Aarhus Conventional for access to infor­­mation, public participation and access to justice in decisions relating to en­­viron­­mental issues. Recently, this also includes legally challenging various decisions taken by governmental authori­­ ties and influencing the way decisions are being made about the environment.

Finally, we have in the last few years pro­­­ gressiv­­ely lobbied for actions to be taken to safeguard nature in popular tourist destinations,” says Gudmundur Ingi Gud­­­ brandsson, CEO of Landvernd and one of the founders of the Icelandic Society for Environmental Scientists.

PROTECTING ONE OF THE LARGEST UNTAMED WILDERNESSES IN EUROPE Landvernd’s biggest conservation goal at the moment is the establishment of a national park in the Central Highland of Iceland. The Central Highland is one of Iceland’s greatest treasures, containing many active volcanoes, glaciers, volu­­ min­­ous rivers and waterfalls, colorful hot springs and mud pools, vast lava fields and broad expanses of black sand, all contrasted with oases of vibrant but vulnerable vegetation. Such an amazing collection of natural jewels is rare in the world mainly because such vast, un­­populated areas where nature alone rules, are disappearing. “In our opinion, Icelanders are in the enviable position of still being able to stand guard over this precious treasure and protect the Central Highland for future generations. Opinion polls show that over 60% of Icelanders support the establishment of a national park there and only about 12% are against it,” says Guðmundur.

Landvernd’s campaign involves extensive lobbying for a national park among local governments, political parties, various stake­­holders and the society at large.

You can see short videos of the stunning Highlands and sign their petition online at www.halendid.is.

Thank you for your contribution toward protecting Icelandic nature. Now get out there and enjoy it! v

Read more about Landvernd and its efforts to protect Icelandic nature by visiting their website, www.landvernd.is

Photographer Kristján Ingi Einarsson was so inspired by this project he decided to let us use his gorgeous photographs for this article in addition to personally donating 5% of the sales from his latest photography book Unique Iceland to Landvernd. Big thanks from all of us to Kristján Ingi!

Lakagigar.

Hveradalir.

Issue three 23

on Twitter

TWEETS OF THE MONTH We’ve got some awesome Twitter friends out there and we love it when our guests share their experience of WOW air. Here are a few of our favorite tweets.

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Issue three 25

Icelandic music

STILL IN THE LIGHT Icelandic electropop artist Ásgeir Trausti Einarsson—better known by his mononym Ásgeir—recently released a third album, Afterglow, which grapples with pessimism and hope. He also has a special gift for his loyal Icelandic listeners.

by Krista Connor Photos: Kristinn Magnússon

Á

sgeir Trausti has a tendency to break records, whether by holding still-unde­­feated javelin-throw top scores that he earned in his teens or by helm­­ing Iceland’s fastest-selling debut album to date with his 2012 release Dýrð í dauðaþögn.

UPBEAT OPTIMISM AND MELANCHOLY Ásgeir’s first album, with its brooding vulnerability and catchy melodies, was so popular in Iceland that he recorded the same album in English (In the Sil­­ ence) the following year—introducing the ethereal, folktronica dream of pop, fals­etto and acoustic rifts to a fascinated international audience.

Afterglow, Ásgeir’s most recent achievement, was released last May. Now, he’s traded this acoustic guitar for programming beats, this time around putt­ ing more weight on the electro element in his electro-folk style. He says he spent more time on production components, too, like sound editing and audio mix­­ing, creating a perceptible, significant shift from the original album’s organic con­­templa­­tiveness. The songs take listeners on an audible journey. One that Ásgeir says, unintentionally reflects a triumphant arc of personal experi­­ences.

“When I was writing some of the songs for this album I was going through difficult times,” says Ásgeir. “Half the album is dark, and the other is lighter or optimistic and hopeful, I think. I want listeners to feel some hope.”

In an ironic contrast to the album’s electro elements, “hope” is expressed lyr­­i­­c­­­ ally in naturistic vignettes, which trickle through the recordings with songs like “Star­­dust” in a light show of ethereal glow and optimism. Though melanc­­holy at times, Afterglow doesn’t stray far from upbeat.

FROM ICELANDIC TO ENGLISH, AND BACK AGAIN Like with In the Silence, Afterglow’s lyrics are in English, a trend Ásgeir says he plans to continue. “For the first album, we got more worldwide success out of the English version. I feel just as comfortable now singing in English as I do in Icelandic,” he says, though jumping between languages and matching English lyr­­ics to the original melody can be strange and requires strategy—and a lot of practice.

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WOW Power to the people

I feel just as comfortable now singing in English as I do in Icelandic,” he says, though jumping between languages and matching English lyr­­ics to the original melody can be strange and requires strategy—and a lot of practice.

Issue three 27

Icelandic music

Meanwhile, Ásgeir has remained dedicated to his Icelandic following. After all, he owes his initial launch to fame, to Iceland—roughly one in 10 Icelanders owns the Icelandic version of In the Silence. It sold more than the debuts from legendary predecessors Björk and Sigur Rós. So not one to forget his roots, Ásgeir hopes to re-release Afterglow in his native tongue, with a few alternative ar­­rangements, though the bulk of the record would remain the same. He says he hopes to do so within the next year. “I like making music for Icelandic people and they like listening to Icelandic songs,” he says.

FINDING “IT” Ásgeir may be inspired to sing for his audiences, both Icelandic and inter­­­na­­­ ti­­onal, but inspiration itself doesn’t always come easily. Ásgeir is no stranger to writer’s block, a frustrating cycle he says he especially suffered from with Afterglow. Now something of a pro after years of writing and waiting, he’s learn­­ed how to wait out the dry spells and quell fear—despite how he may feel—writer’s block doesn’t mean his talent is dissipating. “I am a musician.

It’s what I do. So I feel like I should always be writing and making new music.

But you have to realize when it’s not there, and if it’s not there, then you shouldn’t force it.”

Amazingly, he hasn’t let pressure from producers or managers get to him.

He’ll take a creative hiatus until “it”—creativity, inspiration—returns. “Find­­ ing inspiration can be quite hard because you can’t really seek it, you can’t try to find it; it has to come to you. And for me, I don’t have anything I can go to which gives me inspiration. But it makes you so happy when you finally get it, you can appreciate it more,” Ásgeir says.

ALL IN THE FAMILY Luckily for him, he was raised in a musical family. His mother is a classical org­ a­­nist, his sister a pianist. But it’s his father and brother who have played the most obvious roles in his music career—they’re a vital component to Ásgeir’s song­­writing process. His brother, Steini, 14 years Ásgeir’s senior, plays guitar in Ásgeir’s band, and together with their father Einar, helps craft most of Ásgeir’s

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WOW Power to the people

“When I was writing some of the songs for this album I was going through difficult times, says Ásgeir.

Half the album is dark, and the other is lighter or optimistic and hopeful, I think.”

lyrics. Ásgeir, now 24, has been using his father’s poems-turned-lyrics since he was 13. Seventy-five-year-old Einar is a well-respected published poet in Ice­­­ land, who has used his verses to collaborate with renowned Icelandic artists like Ólafur Arnalds. Einar’s poetry has always been tied closely to and inspired by nature—just like the lyrics in Ásgeir’s songs. “Writing… it’s his passion,” says Ásgeir. “That’s also a part of the reason why my music became successful—be­­ cause of the beautiful poems he’s written for the music.”

The collaboration between father and sons has a systemic flow to it. Ásgeir pours most of his efforts into writing and composing the music, which he then sends to Einar and Steini who craft the lyrics. Once in the studio, Ásgeir plays and records most of the instrumentation—piano, drums, guitar, though during shows he shares the stage with his brother and four other musicians. “I like to play all of the instruments that I can play on the album, and then I have maybe one or two guys that I go to for playing difficult drum parts or strings. For making this album, I got more friendly with the idea of collaborating with more people musically. When you’re playing so many instruments yourself, you can get sort of one-sided,” Ásgeir says.

music teacher through a music school in Hvamms­­tangi, a neighboring town. “He got me into both things really,” says Ásgeir. As with showing appreciation to his Icelandic listeners, for Ásgeir, support is cyclical. The protégé hasn’t for­­gotten his teacher. When WOW magazine caught up with him in April, Ásgeir was at a Reykjavik studio with Gummi recording some of Gummi’s songs. “He taught me everything in the beginning, and I guess I’m kind of returning the favor now and helping him out,” says Ásgeir. v

THE STUDENT RETURNS HOME When he’s touring Iceland, Ásgeir’s parents are always at his shows, ready to sup­­port their son. Returning home to Iceland a handful of times each year is some­­thing Ásgeir always anticipates. Things have naturally changed in his home­­town of Laugarbakki—population, 40—since he got famous. Old friends moved to larger cities like Reykjavik. But a lot remains the same; the town still has one restaurant and one bar. He still plays his mother’s piano he grew up with, which he started tinkering with at age 3. “It’s a very chill town. My par­­ ents were never worried if I got home late when I was out practicing with my band or something. There aren’t as many rules as in big cities,” says Ásgeir.

As a teen, Ágeir was athletic, and as he grew older he began pursuing a career as a javelin thrower. He was setting teen records and had a promising future when a back injury set him on a different course. His javelin throwing coach, a speci­­al role model in Ásgeir’s life, was the first to suggest he send music demos to producers. This guru, who Ásgeir simply calls “Gummi,” became his

See Ásgeir on his spring and summer tours in Copenhagen, Berlin, Munich, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, London and more. Visit asgeirmusic.com for tour dates and more information.

GET YOUR DESIGNER BR ANDS TA X F R E E AT K E F L AV I K A I R P O R T

Issue three 29

Stuðlagil Canyon

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU DAM A RIVER? After the mighty river Jökla (Glacia) was moved from its path to create electricity for an aluminum smelter, a basalt column wonder appeared.

Text and photos: Einar Páll Svavarsson

I

celand is a country of many natural wonders. Although some of the best-known and most popular attractions are near the capi­­ tal, Reykjavík, and in the southern region, there are many other stunning natural wonders around the country, such as waterfalls, canyons, hot springs, craters and magnificent landscapes, often beautifully framed with basalt columns.

NATURE’S CONSTRUCTION

Basalt columns are a geological phenomenon that enhances the land­­scape and often elevate it to another level. They are an unbe­­lieva­­ ble sight because when you stand in front of these geometrical rock formations, you can’t help wondering if it is Mother Nature’s creation or something man-made.

There are many fascinating places you can visit to view the basalt columns in Iceland. The Gerðuberg Cliff located on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula in the west region is one, and the Kálfshamarsvík Bay at Vatns­nes in the northwestern region is another. Reynisfjara Beach and Svartifoss Waterfall are also popular and well-known basalt column attractions on Iceland’s South Coast.

Basalt columns have always fascinated Icelanders and inspired some of our most prominent architects, artists and designers. For in­­stance, a basalt column was installed in the ceiling of the National Theater in Iceland, when it was built almost a century ago. Also, basalt columns were the inspiration for the design of the famous Hall­­gríms­ kirkja Church in Reykjavik.

Among the most interesting basalt columns in Iceland are the ones in Stuðlagil Canyon (Basalt Column Canyon) in the northeastern reg­ion of Iceland. This natural wonder is relatively easy to access from the popular Ring Road. Although the Stuðlagil Canyon has one of the most fascinating and spectacular basalt columns in Iceland, and possibly in the world, it hasn’t been around for a long time. Only rec­­ently discovered, the story behind its revelation is almost as inter­­ esting as the canyon itself.

THE BIG RIVER The discovery of Stuðlagil Canyon is connected to one of the largest projects in Iceland’s history. Stuðlagil Canyon, however, was not part of that inspiration and it was discovered only a few years ago when Icelanders built a large hydroelectric power plant and a dam to pro­ vide an aluminum smelter in Reyðarfjörður with electricity.

The dam was built at the Hafrahvammagljúfur Canyon, one of the deepest and largest canyons in the country, creating a huge reservoir south of the dam. It is located in an area in the Highland where the second most powerful river in Iceland, Jökulsá á Brú (The Glacial River by the Bridge) originates.

The mighty river’s main source is in the Highland, underneath the ice cap of Vatnajökull Glacier. From there, it runs through the Jökuldalur Valley, finding its way to the shore and into the Atlantic Ocean in the northeastern region, where it completes its 150-kilometer course.

Every day, throughout centuries, it moved 120 tons of sand, mud and rocks, scraping and reforming the landscape in its path.

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WOW Power to the people

Stuรฐlagil Canyon is a rare sight and a great place for visitors and photographers.

Issue three 31

A photo taken from the bridge on the dam shows the size of the project and the empty feeling in the great Hafrahvammagljúfur Canyon.

The farmers living in the Jökuldalur Valley and people on either side of the river and all the way to the shore have the greatest respect for its power and enormous flow of water. The river even gained two other nick­­ names, Jökulsá á Dal (The Glacial River in the Valley) and Jökla (Glacia). It was so over­­ whelming and intimidating that it divided the valley into two areas, which have had limited communication through centuries.

TERROR OR TREASURE? Needless to say, the hydroelectric project caused enormous disputes in Iceland during its construction. It was a major interference into nature. Not only did the reservoir drown valuable landscape and natural wonders, as it started to accumulate, but it also changed the second largest river in Iceland. It even swallowed Töfrafoss, a magical waterfall that disappeared into the deep. The argument on the preservationists’ side was that the 57-square-kilometer reservoir had caused an irreversible environmental damage to the landscape, natural wonders and the fauna.

But ironically it also revealed a natural wond­­ er, the beautiful and unique basalt columns of Stuðlagil Canyon.

The large Hálslón Reservoir drowned a lot of landscape and natural wonders.

REVEALING THE STUÐLAGIL CANYON

FINDING YOUR WAY TO STUÐLAGIL

When the glacial water source was re­­mov­­ed from Jökla’s path, the river shrunk signi­fi­ cantly. Consequently, the water level also changed, as did the color of the river and its force. It became a much smaller spring-fed river changing the landscape and sur­­ round­­ing area all the way from the dam to the shore. One of the places that changed radically was the Stuðlagil Canyon.

The lower part of this magnificent basalt column canyon was revealed as the water level lowered. Instead of a large glacial river forcing its way through the canyon, a much smaller and beautiful turquoise-colored stream floated between the basalt column cliffs. Surprisingly, a beautiful, photogenic, and cathedral-like natural wonder was unveiled, a place that will most likely attract many visitors in the years to come.

If you are interested in visiting Stuðlagil Canyon, you’ll need to go all the way up to the northeast region. Take a turn south to road no. 923 from the Ring Road (no. 1) by the farm Skjöldólfsstaðir. As you enter road 923, drive about 14 kilometers to the farm Klaustursel.

There you’ll find a parking lot and a walking bridge over the river Jökla, driving over the narrow bridge is not allowed. After walking over the bridge to the east riverbank, a fourkilometer hike is required to the Stuðlagil Canyon, which is near the farm Grund. v ABOUT THE AUTHOR Einar Páll Svavarsson is a political scientist turn­ed photographer and writer with decades of interest and experience traveling in Iceland. Einar is the owner and creator of one of the largest information website about Iceland—Hit Iceland.

For more articles and photos go to hiticeland.com

CHANGING THE COURSE

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As the reservoir Hálslón started to consume all the glacial water in the Highland above the dam, it also changed the mighty river Jökla. Like all glacial rivers in Iceland, most of the water source originates under a glacier. But the rivers also have other sources from tens and sometimes hundreds of small spring-fed rivers and creeks along its path to the shore. This is also the case with the Jökla River. The striking difference between a glacial source and a spring-fed source is the purity. Glacial water is always loaded with dirt, ash, mud, rocks and tons of materials, whereas a spring-fed river is pure and clean water. When the glacial water disappeared from Jökla’s path and was moved to another destination in another valley, after flowing from the reservoir through a 60-kilometer man-made tunnel to turn the turbines in the power plant, the change was nothing less than dramatic.

WOW Power to the people

Climbing down to the canyon and viewing the wonder is like entering a cathedral.

F

eldur Workshop is a family business created and operated by furrier Heiðar Sigurðsson and his wife Kristín Birgisdóttir. They specialize in the design and production of genuine high-quality fur garments and accessories.

The main ambition of the business is to produce beautiful designs from prime quality fur that are both classic and modern.

Feldur Workshop also provides mending services for fur coats and other fur articles. This service is a part of their desire to make their creations and fur products in general, items that will last a lifetime and even be passed on to the next generation.

The highlight for many visitors is the opportunity to observe the master furrier himself.

Feldur Workshop is located at Snorrabraut 56 in downtown Reykjavik. The workshop is both a stylish and cosy, displaying some of the fur products they‘ve designed, while others are handmade on site.

If you are interested in seeing Feldur Workshop’s products, we recommend a visit to the workshop on Snorrabraut 56. Alternatively, there are a number of stores in Iceland that carry a selection of their items which you also can see online at www.feldur.is.

SHOP SNORRABRAUT 56 | T. 588 0488 | FELDUR.IS Issue three 33

FIVE YEARS OF WOW TIME REALLY FLIES

On May 31, WOW air celebrated the fifth anniversary since our very first flight.

We’d like to take the opportunity to thank all our guests for these last five years and go over the WOW history together.

2012

THE FIRST YEAR OF WOW Our CEO Skúli Mogensen has been an entrepreneur from a young age and he’s often spoken publicly on people’s reaction to his decision to start an airline. “Usually my friends congratulate me when I get a new business started but when I started WOW air the most common reaction was ‘Are you crazy?’”

employees including flight crew, but we had big goals and in October 2012 WOW air took over the operation of Iceland Express which had been the leading low-cost carrier in Iceland for 11 years.

2014

THE THIRD YEAR OF WOW In 2014 we stayed on course repeating everything that had been done well and learning from our mistakes. This year we flew ca. 490,000 guests to Europe, using three Airbus A320 aircraft and one A319, employed 185 people, and again, managed to have a better on-time performance than any other airline flying to and from Iceland.

In October we finally got the go-ahead and could start selling flights to the USA. Our two destinations were Boston and Washington, D.C. The USA flights turned out to be a game changer for WOW air.

Celebrating our second birthday on board.

2013 WOW air began selling flights on-line in November of 2011 at a much lower price than other airlines. In the beginning our sales office was just one telephone on the floor of a small office space. We offered point-to-point flights only, to Paris, London, Copenhagen and Berlin in addition to eight summer destinations.

This first year, starting May 31st, we flew with 90,000 guests using two leased Airbus A320. WOW air was just a small beginner on the scene with 70

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THE SECOND YEAR OF WOW

WOW air’s main livery from 2013-2016.

An even bigger move was made when WOW air applied for its own Air Operator Certificate in January of 2013. We didn’t make a lot of changes to our operation this year but we were growing and flew with over 400,000 guests to Europe using three Airbus A320 aircraft while employing 150 people. We also managed to beat all other airlines when it came to on-time performance in flights to and from Iceland.

In October we were given our AOC and could start registering our aircraft – the first one being TF-WOW of course.

2015

THE FOURTH YEAR OF WOW Sales to the USA, and subsequently to Europe, were going great and in February WOW air announced we were buying two brand new Airbus A321 to carry our guests over the Atlantic. The aircraft got a WOW registration, TF-MOM and TF-DAD and as a last minute decision we decided to paint TFMOM purple to match our colors but until then all our aircraft had been white with a purple WOW logo. In April TF-MOM flew the

Issue three 35

FIVE YEARS OF WOW TIME REALLY FLIES

Skúli Mogensen, WOW air’s CEO, proudly welcomed our first Airbus A321 aircraft, TF-MOM in March 2015. It was the first WOW aircraft to get a purple livery.

inaugural flight to Boston and a month later TF-DAD started our service to D.C. WOW air was definitely getting bigger, adding more and more whole year destinations. This year we flew to 20 cities, mostly in Europe, now operating five Airbus aircraft, three A320s and two A321s as we employed 280 people and carried ca.

725,000 guests to and from Iceland, nearly doubling in size from the year before. In the autumn we announced new destinations among which were two Canadian cities, Toronto and Montréal and we also started offering two big long-haul routes; Los Angeles and San Francisco on the West Coast of USA. For this reason, WOW air signed leases for three Airbus A330-300 wide-body aircraft to be able to fly all the way to California.

The year 2015 marks a big turnaround for WOW air as for the first time ever the airline was profitable.

A330 bringing the total fleet to 12 aircraft, still we managed to keep our load factor close to 90%.

This year we grew internally as well and employed 720 people. We put more effort into our social media presence than ever before and we also published the WOW app allowing our guests to book, check in and check for info with one simple application on their smart-devices.

Again WOW air managed to be profitable this year

We recently announced our service to Tel Aviv, Israel, starting this fall, which marks another chapter for WOW air as it will be the airlines first flight into Asia.

We’re also starting our plan for 2018 and have bought and leased seven brand new aircraft, directly from the assembly lines at Airbus in France to carry our guests across oceans and continents. There are exciting times ahead for this five-year-old start-up airline and we hope you’ll join us on our flight into the future.

The future is WOW!

2017

THE ROAD SO FAR This year we plan to (and have already started to) receive five new aircraft, fly our inaugural flights to six new destinations and carry around 3,000,000 guests.

We also welcomed our 1000th employee recently and plan to employ 1100 people by the end of the year.

Celebrating five year of WOW

The youngest fleet in the world?

From the Airbus A330 flight deck on our inaugural flight to Los Angeles, June 14, 2016.

2016

THE FIFTH YEAR OF WOW This year was probably the biggest in WOW history. Our guest numbers doubled as we flew with over 1.600,000 guests to almost 30 destinations in both North-America and Europe. Our capacity grew by 130% as we added 7 new aircraft, four A321 and three

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WOW Power to the people

WOW air is proud to offer one of the youngest fleets in the world with an average of 2.9 years and getting younger with each new delivery. In addition to being safer, flying such a young fleet is also cost-efficient and more environmentally friendly, a benefit that should not go unnoticed.

This spring WOW air welcomed TF-NEO, a brand new Airbus A320-200neo to our fleet. Neo stands for New Engine Option as the aircraft has a new generation of engines that offer a 14% reduction in fuel consumption per seat. This gives the aircraft a longer range making it very cost efficient on longer routes such as from Keflavik, Iceland to Toronto or Montréal in Canada. As a bonus Airbus neo aircraft are much quieter than older models although the Airbus already was a pretty quiet and clean aircraft.

“We are proud to be able to offer our passengers one of the youngest fleet worldwide. This ad­di­­­tion will help us grow even more and to fly greater lengths than before.

A bigger and younger fleet will, without a doubt, benefit us in the ever-growing, competitive aviation market as brand-new planes are much more economic,” says Skuli Mogensen, CEO of WOW air.

Icelandic wool

Issue three 37

T E E L F W O W THE

E L P R U P Y K PAINT THE S

TF-WOW

TF-MOM

Type: A330-300 – YoM: 2015 – Seats: 343

Type: A321-200 – YoM: 2014 – Seats: 200

TF-WOW was the first aircraft registration name acquired by WOW air. It now adorns one of our Airbus A330 wide-body jets which was added to the WOW fleet early summer 2016. WOW air’s A330s are the largest aircraft used in commercial flights to and from Iceland and are mostly used to service our routes to California and Florida. TF-WOW has 13 BigSeats.

Everyone loves their mom right? The second aircraft to get a WOW registration was TF-MOM, it was also the first aircraft bought and delivered to WOW air in March 2015. TF-MOM is also known as Freyja and is currently the only aircraft in the WOW fleet that has a name beyond its registration code.

TF-DAD

TF-GMA

Type: A321-200 – YoM: 2014 – Seats: 200

Type: A321-200 – YoM: 2016 – Seats: 220

If you register a TF-MOM it goes without saying that you should have a TF-DAD too. For a time TF-DAD was the only aircraft in the WOW fleet that was painted white and had a smile and sunglasses too, in accordance with WOW air’s old livery. That all changed last May and TF-DAD is now just as purple as the rest of them.

TF-GMA is short for Grandma, but don’t let the name fool you, she’s actually very young. The matriarch joined the WOW fleet at the end of May 2016, straight out of the box.

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WOW Power to the people

rding to lly and not acco fu re ca ry ve ft ra in a big way. mes of each airc ey represent us registration na e th th as s n se fu oo be ch r to mes nes WOW ai a look. registration na Unlike most airli exception. Take et. We like our no ab is ft ph al ra e rc ai th us of es W family of Airb standard practic the growing WO d an ue iq un is Every family

TF-GPA

TF-GAY

Type: A321-200 – YoM: 2016 – Seats: 220

Type: A330-300 – YoM: 2010 – Seats: 338

Also straight-out-of-the-box, TF-GPA aka Grandpa, joined the WOW fleet in August 2016.

TF-GAY is the out and proud member of the WOW family. A free spirit at heart, he visits San Francisco as often as he can. TF-GAY was delivered to WOW air in June 2016. TF-GAY has 14 BigSeats.

TF-LUV

TF-BRO

Type: A330-300 – YoM: 2015 – Seats: 343

Type: A320-200 – YoM: 2010 – Seats: 174

We love everyone so naturally we had to have a TF-LUV. This wide-body jet was delivered to WOW air early summer 2016. TF-LUV has 13 BigSeats.

TF-BRO has been servicing WOW air since September of 2015, flying to various destinations around Europe.

Issue three 39

ET THE WOW FLE Y PURPLE K S E INT TH

PA

TF-SIS

TF-NEO

Type: A320-200 – YoM: 2010 – Seats: 174

Type: A320-200 neo – YoM: 2017 – Seats: 180

TF-BRO’s twin sister was delivered to WOW air at the same time as TF-BRO, in September 2015, and works really hard carrying our guests to Europe.

This brand new aircraft was aptly named TF-NEO. As an Airbus A320-200 neo, the NEO stands for “New Engine Option” as it has a brand new CFM LEAP-1A engine that offers a 15% reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and a 50% cut in NOx emissions in addition to being among the quietest aircraft ever built. If you’re lucky enough to be onboard TF-NEO right now, listen to it, and also enjoy the subtle mood lighting. TF-NEO’s flight range is quite a bit longer than the conventional A320 aircraft as it can fly our guests all the way to Canada in addition to servicing our shorter European routes.

TECHNICAL INFO

TF-KID Type: A321-200 – YoM: 2013 – Seats: 200 Delivered to WOW air in February 2016, TF-KID carries guests to both Europe and America.

Airbus A330-300

Max takeoff weight: 235,000 kg, Range: 11,750 km, Engines: 2xRR-Trent700, Cruising speed: Mach 0.82

Airbus A321-200

Max takeoff weight: 93,500 kg, Range: 7,400 km, Engines: 2xCFM-56, Cruising speed: Mach 0.78

Airbus A320-200

Max takeoff weight: 77,000 kg Range: 6,480 km Engines: 2xIAE-V2500 Cruising speed: Mach 0.78

TF-SON Type: A321-200 – YoM: 2013 – Seats: 200 TF-SON, like his sister TF-KID, services both Europe and America.

The SON was delivered to WOW air in March 2016.

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WOW Power to the people

Airbus 320-200 neo

Max takeoff weight: 79,000 kg Range: 6,850 km with Sharklets Engines: 2xCFM LEAP-1A Cruise Speed: Mach 0.78

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FOR ALL THOSE WHO ARE YOUNG AT HEART Come and meet the Tulipoppers in our magical flagship store in central ReykjavĂ­k or find them in boutiques around Iceland.

Learn more about the Icelandic Tulipop world and browse the Tulishop online www.tulipop.com.

Issue three 41

Guiding cairns

Sandfellsheiรฐi Heath.

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WOW Power to the people

A PILE OF STONES A cairn is a pile of stones, or so it would seem. But many cairns stand for much more than that. Throughout history, cairns have been used to mark places to signal something. They are simple to build; all you need to do is to stack stones on a flat surface, so understandably they were already used in the dawn of human history.

Text and photos: Einar Skúlason, a hiking guide and the creator of the Wapp – Walking app.

Cairns have been used as landmarks, to show where land or even countries are divided, as signals on where to sail boats to safety, as a warn­­ ing sign, to mark burial sites or graves and more.

But in Iceland, the most important role of cairns has been to mark trails and prevent travel­­ers from gett­­ing lost.

MESSAGES TO TRAVELERS Often there was no more that 20-30 m between cairns. The rocks used were usually collected from the area, so the look of the cairns would match the surrounding area. However, they could be round or square and of various heights. The cairns that were built on solid rock have lasted the longest since the ground beneath hasn’t moved at all, and they were often built on top of the small hills that stand out of the snow during winter. Sometimes cairns were built to warn people of dangerous crevices or cliffs or to mark exactly where it was best to cross a river.

Sometimes they were made or named to honor the memory of someone, usually if that someone had died there. These cairns would be given names that fit the purpose.

THE CAIRN IN SVÍNASKARÐ PASS It was customary to put a rock into certain cairns and the reasons were twofold. Either it was believ­­ ed that someone had been buried under­­neath the cairn, so one more rock would help in keeping the body in place down there or people would put a rock there for good luck like if it was in a mountain pass. In Svínaskarð Pass (Pigs Pass) there is an old legend of two shepherds that fought there and both died of their wounds; even though not every­­ one believes the legend people still continue to put rocks in the cairn.

century. The cairns are well built and will probably last another hundred years. However, the tracks of the road are slowly disappearing.

THE CAIRN MARKING THE START OF SÍLDARMANNAGÖTUR TRAIL The cairn marking the start of Síldarmannagötur Trail (Herring Men Trail) in Botnsvogur is new, even though the trail itself has been used since the settle­­ment of Iceland. It is believed that it got this name because men catching herring in Hvalfjörður Fjord were carrying it back to their farms. The cairn was built by Guðjón from the farm of Drangar in the Strandir area of the Westfjords. He has been teaching the old methods of cairn and wall building and his courses are very popular.

THE CAIRNS IN VESTDALUR Seyðisfjörður was once the most important towns of the East Fjords. There are mountains on all sides, so people frequently traveled across the moun­­tains from neighboring areas to shop for necessities, catch a ship or find work. The cairns helped people to make their way through these mountain roads that were 5-700 m above sea level.

Many of the cairns are still standing in Vestdalur and Vestdalsheiði Heath even though the Vestdalur Trail has not been used much for the past 60 years.

THE CAIRNS OF ÞORSKAFJARÐARHEIÐI HEATH Þorskafjarðarheiði Heath was crossed to get from Þorskafjörður Fjord to Ísafjarðardjúp Fjord. The pathway was used until the 1940s, and the cairns as well as the track, can still be seen. The heath is long, and it was considered the main obstacle for the mailmen that had to travel the heath 3-4 times a year in all kinds of weather starting in the 18th

Langadalur Valley.

Issue three 43

Hestfjarðarheiði Heath.

Vestdalur Valley in Seyðisfjörður.

LANDMARKS The farmers in Iceland have used cairns to mark their lands since the start of the settlement. Of course, it is important to let those cairns be. It was said that if anyone would move or change such a cairn, then they would be sentenced to carry rocks for­ ever in their afterlife. Farmers would also erect cairns to mark holes or tiny cav­­es where foxes would breed year after year, so they would be easier to hunt.

CAIRNS AS WARNING SIGNS Those who’ve watched The Lord of the Rings trilogy can perhaps remember when fires were lit on top of big cairns on mountain ranges. That way it was possible to warn people of immediate danger. It was a known way to send a message, but perhaps not used as much in Iceland as other countries since battles were

The Cairn of Grettir in Vatnsfjörður in the West Fjord.

Cairns have been used as landmarks, to show where land or even countries are divided, as signals on where to sail boats to safety, as a warn­­ing sign, to mark burial sites or graves and more.

scarce and foreign armies did not invade.

There­fore, not many such cairns were made. However, the cairn of Grettir in Vatns­­fjörður Fjord in the West Fjords may have been used for this purpose. Grettir the Strong was supposed to have built it while he stayed at a nearby farm. The cairn is two meters high and on top is a hole, presumably for a fire. It could have been used as a warning signal, but it is also possi­­ble that it was used to signal seamen the right way in darkness or fog. Cairns were also used to signal seamen on where to sail to get to a harbor or a good place to land their boat. These cairns were usually higher than the cairns used to mark trails on land.

ones, called Bone Crones were supposed to resemble women with questionable morals. Men traveling through would put notes with verses or rhymes into bones and stick somewhere between the rocks of the cairn. These texts were often of the kind that would not be acceptable in mixed company, usually well “below the belt” as the desires and needs of the Bone Crone were explained in a humorous way. The foll­owing verse is an example:

BONE CRONE CAIRNS

Though I’ve never been had / by a more miserable bastard / I’ll take pity on you / if you finish quickly. v

Some cairns got to be the hub for messa­­ ges, verses or rhymes. The infamous

Þótt aldrei fái átt við mig ömurlegri þrjótur skal ég aumkvast yfir þig ef þú verður fljótur.

No new cairns!

Many travelers in Iceland think building cairns is an activity for everyone and many have built their own piles of rocks to commemorate their stay. We kindly ask you NOT to erect new ones and let those that actually serve a purpose stand in peace. The building of cairns for recreational purposes along trails, to mark one’s personal pass­­age through the area, can result in an overa­bundance of ugly rock piles.

This also distracts from genuine cairns used as navigational guides and conflicts with the “Leave No Trace” ethic. This ethic of outdoor practice advocates for leaving the outdoors undisturbed and in its natural condition.

If you feel like your Instagram photo col­lec­­tion from this trip won’t be complete with­­­­out a picture of your personal cairn, please build one on a rocky beach where the re­­moving of stones will not affect the earth and where the cairn can be easily destroyed without leaving a trace.

Hikers leaving rocks in a cairn by Rauðasandur Beach..

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WOW Power to the people

W E L C O M E

O N

B O A R D !

Elevate your encounter with Iceland!

Amazing helicopter tours around Iceland for individuals or groups. You can choose from a 20 minutes city sightseeing tour up to a whole day journey and everything in between.

AirTaxi! We are often available on short notice!

Your wish is our command!

The fleet is made up of the most modern and meticulously maintained helicopters on the market. The pilots are trained to the highest standards, experienced, friendly, multi-lingual individuals with great knowledge of Iceland’s spectacular nature.

They will make your journey unforgettable.

Safety and comfort of our customers is always our main priority.

• We operate from Reykjavik (city) Airport.

• We offer free transport services within Reykjavik city area in connection with our flights.

• We can, on the other hand, arrange for a pick up and/or drop off from and to just about anywhere in the country.

• You can either pick one of our tours or simply design your own.

• We are flexible.

Our service team is on duty 24/7 and will happily assist you at any time.

Check out our tours and prices on our website.

E-mail to info@rehe.is or call (+354) 589 1000 www.reykjavikhelicopters.com

Issue three 45

WOW-on-wheels!

WOW CITYBIKE – It’s kind of a big wheel This summer WOW air will start a brand new side venture in Reykjavik, a bike sharing system, giving the citizens and guests of Reykjavík a chance to better explore the capital of Iceland on their own.

Find your WOW citybike station and start riding.

For more information go to www.wowcitybike.com

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WOW Power to the people

City bike systems are well known all over the world.

From USA and Canada to the UK and China, the simple idea of a city bike-sharing system has taken root in most big cities and the bikes are well used. It was time the bike-sharing got to Reykjavik too and WOW air, an airline proud of its bike-friendly culture (not to mention the WOW Cyclothon), is happy to be the one to offer this user-friendly bike rental to the people of Reykjavik and their visitors.

This June WOW air will set up eight WOW citybike stations in and around downtown Reykjavik providing affordable access to bikes for short distance trips.

This gives riders the chance to forgo motorized transport while still traveling quickly from A to B where they can return the bike and then take it out again when it’s time to move on to the next exciting destination. This affordable option is more fun than a bus or a taxi and an easy way to get to know Reykjavik.

“Cycling is a great way to commute and it’s been gaining in popularity in Iceland as it’s both healthy and environmental.

We’re proud to be a part of this transition, first with WOW Cyclothon and now with the WOW citybikes which will definitely bring a touch of color

and ride as you please, for up to 30 minutes for only 400 ISK. Before your half hour is up, return the bike to any WOW citybike station and wait at least 2 minutes before you take the bike out again, if you have time left, or get another 30-minute credit. You can do this all day long but if you decide to go for a long ride on a WOW citybike and added half hour will cost 600 ISK. We hope to see everyone riding bikes in Reykjavik this summer, using them as an environmentally friendly mode of transportation to sightsee in Reykjavik.

to the streets of Reykjavik this summer and help create a fun and lively atmosphere,” says Skúli Mogensen founder and CEO of WOW air.

THEY SEE ME ROLLIN’ Bicycling is an eco-friendly way to sight-see wherever you go.

Cycling reduces traffic con­­gest­­ ion, noise and air pollution. We wholeheartedly recom­­­mend riding around Reykjavik while taking in the sights.

Renting a WOW citybike is easy.

Go to any WOW citybike sta­­tion and use your credit card in the kiosk to sign in and get a code.

Use your code to take out a bike

BUILT FOR RIDING WOW citybikes are rust and corrosion proof with alum­­­ inum frames and steel accessories. The bikes have three gears, handle breaks on both handles and adjustable seats. The tires are also durable and designed to be punct­­ ure proof. These bikes are the same as used in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Montréal and London. WOW air will offer 100 bikes divided between eight kiosk stations. v

WOW CITYBIKE STATIONS Fiskislóð Klettagarðar

Vesturbugt Lækjartorg Square

The Pond

This June WOW air will set up eight WOW citybike sta­­­ tions in and around downtown Reykjavik providing affordable access to bikes for short distance trips.

This gives riders the chance to forgo motorized transport while still traveling quickly from A to B where they can return the bike and then take it out again when it’s time to move on to the next exciting destination.

Sæbraut Laugavegur

Borgartún

Hlemmur

Laugardalur Swimming Pool

Hallgrímskirkja

Sóleyjargata

Hringbraut

Reykjavík Park and Zoo

Klambratún Park

Suðurlandsbraut

Miklabraut Reykjavik Domestic Airport

Nauthólsvík

Bústaðavegur

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

BUY NOW

on this flight

Why not buy a tour with us on board this flight?

– just ask the cabin crew.

A SIGHT NOT TO BE MISSED!

EXPERIENCE A GREAT DAY WITH US!

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

Free WiFi

BSÍ Bus Terminal 101 Reykjavík +354 580 5400 main@re.is • www.re.is www.flybus.is

GOLD-CLASS ENVIRONMENTAL UMHVERFISFLOKKUN

CERTIFIED TRAVEL SERVICE VIÐURKENND FERÐAÞJÓNUSTA

R O

Issue three 47

Be Iceland

The ultimate travel companion Finding all those secret spots in Iceland that no one even thinks to look for can be a daunting task but we have something that can make your vacation in Iceland a lot easier.

With over 2600 GPS POIs you‘ll have a hard time not making a few detours.

Be Iceland is an informational website and a phone app designed to make your traveling in Iceland easier.

PLAN TO BE THERE As soon as you land, you can book your Flybus transfer to Reykjavik through the app instead of standing in line at the ticket office. Because all the Flybuses have free wifi, the journey will also give you a great opportunity to find and book tours on your way to Reykjavik.

When traveling in Iceland, the Be Iceland app will help you find interesting places nearby and help you locate most of Iceland‘s amazing natural attractions and historic places, towns, hotels, shops and restaurants. The app will also help you find ATMs and recycling stations should you need them and it lets you filter everything down to better fit your plans.

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WOW Power to the people

THE TRAVELER‘S SECRET WEAPON The Be Iceland app is easy to navigate and has several categories to choose from such as Eat, Sleep, Discover, Enjoy and Shop, to name a few.

The Discover category is especially handy, giving you directions to places known for their natural or historical significance close to your location. Filtering the results by your interest can lead to the discovery of something great, like a little known natural gem, a conveniently located hiking route or a historical site where you learn something interesting. If you‘re a budget traveler, this feature will become your ultimate secret weapon when planning your trip as almost all of these places are free of charge.

Inside all other categories, you can filter the results to find exactly what you need with information that would never fit inside any guide book. Looking for a swimming pool? Go to the Enjoy category and filter the results to swimming pools, you‘ll find the

When traveling in Iceland, the Be Iceland app will help you find interesting places nearby and help you locate most of Iceland‘s amazing natural attractions and historic places, towns, hotels, shops and restaurants.

The Be Iceland app is free of charge and available for ios and Android through their respective stores. You can also check out the Be Iceland website, beiceland. is. It‘s a great place to start if you‘re planning a vacation in Iceland.

closest one first but you might also find one that‘s too unique to pass by. In the Enjoy category, you can find nearby tours too and book them directly.

EVERYTHING YOU‘RE LOOKING FOR AND MORE Hungry? Select the Eat category and browse the closest restaurant. Or decide what you‘re hungry for and filter the results.

From vegan or vegetarian to steaks and sushi and almost everything in between, the Be Iceland app‘s got you covered.

For those looking for that perfect item to complete their wardrobe or a quirky souvenir, the Shop category will be a dream come true. Filter the results by fashion or design to find real Icelandic clothes or select souvenirs to find the one item that will complete your collection. v

Spend the night at a snow-powered hotel In Iceland, all electricity is generated from renewable sources; falling water, the heat of the earth and the force of the wind.

Welcome to the land of renewable energy. landsvirkjun.com/visitus

Issue three 49

A WOW warning

The land of fire and ice… and a whole lot of water The Icelandic wilderness is not the place to get stupid and reckless. Although your trip’s backdrop is fascinating, the perfect Instagram travel picture is not worth your life. In our last issue we talked about driving in Iceland and now we’re going to talk about water, because, well, we’ve got a lot of it!

by Eygló Árnadóttir Photo: iStockphoto.com / AlexLevitsky

Many natural sites in Iceland are much more dangerous than they appear and tourists tend to misjudge, sometimes tragically, their safety near popular attrac­­ tions resulting in fatal accidents. It is vital to follow every safety warning; read the signs and listen to your guides. Icelanders are a relatively laid back bunch, so when they shout danger, they mean it.

BOILING WATER...

Courtesy of geothermal activity, Iceland has numerous hot springs and geysers.

Although some hot springs have the per­­fect tem­­perature to bathe in; such as the Blue Lagoon, Mývatn Nature Baths and Land­­ manna­­laugar (to name a few), others are over 100°C (212°F). These should be explored with great caution since even the hot mud surrounding the boiling water can give you some serious burns. Geothermal areas are very unstable and you never know what lies beneath the surface. Even a normal looking spot of grass could burn your feet. NEVER step out of the marked trails in geothermal areas and be especially cautious if traveling with children.

FREEZING WATER… One of Iceland’s most popular destinations is Jökulsárlón, a glacier lagoon nestled by Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull. The lagoon truly is breathtaking, with seals swimm­­ing in between floating icebergs. Tour guides, café staff and warning signs forbid travelers from stepping onto the icebergs but nevertheless, there are always those who ignore these warnings and do it anyway. (You might even have seen this in famous music videos.)

Stepping on an iceberg for that everso-cool glacier selfie is a VERY bad idea.

Although the ice may be connected to land when you get on, it can easily break away, leaving you stranded on an iceberg headed for sea. Large groups of tourists have had to be rescued from the floating ice blocks,

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WOW Power to the people

Geothermal areas are very unstable and you never know what lies beneath the surface. Even a normal looking spot of grass could burn your feet. NEVER step out of the marked trails in geothermal areas and be especially cautious if traveling with children.

including parents with children. People can easily fall off the slippery ice, not to mention the risk of an iceberg tipping over without warning. Either way, they fall into the lagoon and can even get trapped underneath the ice. People can only survive the freezing water for few minutes, and the undercurrent can quickly sweep them out to sea. Those who go for a stroll on icebergs are not only endangering themselves, but also anyone attempting to rescue them. ... AND FALLING WATER Then there are all those gorgeous waterfalls and their slippery ledges. (Add the crazy Icelandic wind to increase the risk of falling). Getting to close to waterfalls is dangerous so they are best viewed from a dry distance to minimize the risk of slipping and falling.

If banging your head on the rocks on the way down doesn’t kill you, the heavy falling water will. At the biggest and most popular waterfalls (such as Gullfoss on the Golden Circle route) there are rails and several warning signs in place. And yet, we’ve seen tourists climbing over these rails on a number of occasions. Do NOT go further than the rails; they are there for a good reason. And if you visit a waterfall without rails, pretend they are there. v

112

In case of an emergency call 112.

Download the 112 Iceland app to your phone, where pressing one button calls for help while sending your location by text.

www.safetravel.is

Just because there are no warning signs doesn’t mean there’s no danger. Let the rising steam serve as a warning and don’t step outside the trails, the water can literally knock your skin off.

BOOK HERE

AIRPORT EXPRESS Quick• Frequent •Convenient

KEFLAVÍK AIRPORT

REYKJAVÍK

Tickets available at the arrivals hall Terminal to Terminal

Incl. Pick up/Drop off

2,400 ISK

2,900 ISK

Price:

Price:

3,900 ISK

4,900 ISK

Price:

One Way

Return

Price:

One Way

Return

Contact information: Tel. +354 540 1313 | iceland@grayline.is | airportexpress.is | grayline.is

Issue three 51

Flying WOW

FLYING MADE SIMPLER As a young low-fare airline, we at WOW air are still learning and adapting our services to better suit our guests’ needs. To make our booking process and traveling simpler and faster, we’re now offering three travel options when flying WOW. For more information on WOW air’s additional services and new flight options go to wowair.us/travel-info/fares

WOW Basic This is really all you need: a simple flight ticket that will get you to your destination along with one personal item. You can add anything you want to the ticket, such as a carry-on bag or checked baggage, bigger seat, priority boarding and cancellation protection to name a few, for an additional fee. This is our simple ultra-low fare.

Included: • •

Flight ticket Personal item up to a maximum 42x32x25cm/ 17x13x10in

WOW Plus Bundle up—we’re now offering your dream package. The convenient WOW Plus option is loaded with add-ons at a better price. Fly in style and enjoy the extra services such as a carry-on bag, a checked bag and cancellation protection. WOW Plus will always be cheaper than adding to the WOW Basic fare; guaranteed.

Included: • • • • •

Flight ticket Personal item up to a maximum 42x32x25cm/ 17x13x10in Carry-on bag up to a maximum of 56x45x25 cm/ 22x18x10in Checked bag Cancellation protection

For all the busy bees out there, this one’s for you. Travel in our biggest and most comfortable seats and be the first in line at the airport. Of course, you’ll get a checked bag and a carry-on bag in addition to a free seat reservation (XL, XXL or Big Seat) and cancellation protection.

• • • •

Included:

• • •

Carry-on bag up to a maximum of 56x45x25 cm/ 22x18x10in Checked bag Cancellation protection Seat reservation: WOW Biz guests will always get the best seat with the biggest leg room available at the time of booking Priority boarding at all airports In-flight meal: Choose food and drink from the WOW me menu on board.

Free coffee

WOW Biz

• •

52

Flight ticket Personal item up to a maximum 42x32x25cm/ 17x13x10in WOW Power to the people

Issue three 53

Promotion

Burro / Pablo Discobar Veltusund 1 by Ingólfstorg Square 101 Reykjavik Tel: +354 552 7333 E-mail: burro@burro.is www.burro.is

Burro and Pablo Discobar

Where you’ll find the locals Burro Tapas + Steaks is a new favorite on the Icelandic restaurant scene, having opened in the fall of 2016 in downtown Reykjavik. Icelanders were quick to claim this hidden gem, and from the start, it has been a local favorite.

B

urro Tapas + Steaks is a new favorite on the Icelandic restaurant scene, having opened in the fall of 2016 in downtown Reykjavik.

Icelanders were quick to claim this hidden gem, and from the start, it has been a local favorite.

Fun and quirky with a history Burro is located in the center of Reykjavík in a hist­ or­­ical building designed by Rögnvaldur Ólafs­­son, often dubbed “the first architect of Ice­­­land.” To de­­sign the interior of Burro, the owners recruited designer Hálfdán Pedersen to help them use as much as possible of the house’s original plans as well as portray their fun and quirky spirit.

Best shared with friends All food at Burro is prepared with high-quality Icelandic ingredients by master chefs and served by the very helpful waiting staff. Everything they serve comes with a modern Latin twist and all of the dishes are made so they can be shared with the whole table, creating a more festive atmosphere.

Every night at Burro will feel like it’s the weekend; it’s fun, it’s relaxed and the staff makes sure all of their guests are having a good time.

Dinner and disco Before or after enjoying dinner at Burro, we recommend a visit to Burro’s weird brother on the

BURRO Opening hours: Sun-Thu: 5-11 pm and Fri-Sat: 5-12 pm PABLO DISCOBAR Opening hours: Sun-Thu: 4 pm – 1 am and Fri-Sat: 4 pm – 3 am Happy our every day from 4-6 pm

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WOW Power to the people

floor above the restaurant. Pablo Discobar has happy hour from 4-6 PM every day. Pablo Discobar will make you some of the best cocktails in town, and of course he will play you some disco music as well but beware, he doesn’t like it when people steal his pelicans. v

Burro Tapas + Steaks is a new favorite on the Icelandic restaurant scene, hav­­ ing opened in the fall of 2016 in down­­ town Reykjavik. Icelanders were quick to claim this hidden gem, and from the start, it has been a local favorite.

Promotion

Kaldi Bar Laugavegur 20 b 101 Reykjavik Tel: +354 581 2200 www.facebook.com/KaldiBarCafe

A breath of fresh air

Cool as Kaldi KALDI BAR IS ONE OF ICELAND’S MOST UNIQUE BARS. AN OASIS IN CENTRAL REYKJAVÍK.

I

t might not be spacious but it makes up for it with great relaxing atmos­­­phere in a rustic setting.

Besides the congenial atmosphere, there’s a great outside seating area in a cozy back­­yard.

Known for its wide collection of local micro brews both on draft and in bottl­es, Kaldi Bar is very popular among locals who check in at happy hour to get their fill of the unfiltered Kaldi brew. Drop by and get to know everybody, they might even give you some good tips on how to become a local. v

Kaldi Bar is one of Iceland’s most unique bars. An oasis in central Reykjavík. It might not be spacious but it makes up for it with great relaxing atmos­­­phere in a rustic setting.

KALDI BAR Opening hours: Sunday-Thursday: 12:00 noon - 01:00 am Friday & Saturday: 12:00 noon - very late / Price list Beer on draft 0.5 – 1,100 IKR Glass of vine – 1,200 IKR / Happy hour 16:00-19:00 / Beer on draft 0.5 – 650 IKR / Glass of vine – 650 I

Promotion

Kol Restaurant Skólavörðustígur 40 101 Reykjavík Tel: +354 517 7474 www. kolrestaurant .is

Cocktails and feel good food at Kol Restaurant BE PREPARED FOR A MEMORABLE NIGHT OUT AT KOL RESTAURANT.

S

ituated at Skólavörðustígur 40 in Reykja­­­­­­ vík, Kol Restaurant’s design con­­­­­cept is a mixture of warm modern Icelandic feel with international touc­­h­­es and the furniture of designer Tom Dixon playing the central role. The rest­­­­­­­­aur­­ant is on two floors with an open kitchen and a mighty bar. Both floors are divided into spac­­es with cozy leather couches and a variety of diff­­­er­­ent table settings. Kol Restaurant centers on the bar where the country’s best cocktail bar­­tenders serve craft cocktails from the best ingredients available

and offer an ambitious cocktail list to begin and complete the dining experience.

The selection is feel good comfort food with a twist on classic cuisine. The menu offers a variety of finger food, salads, fish, steaks and dess­­ erts. The head chefs, Einar Hjaltason and Kári Þor­­­­­steinsson, have over 20 years of ex­­­perience at Reykjavik’s best restaurants as well as work ex­­­perience in several known restaurants in London, for example Le Manoir Aux Quat’ Saisons, Dabbous, Noma, 28/50 and Texture. Don’t miss out on this

KOL RESTAURANT Opening hours: Monday-Friday 11:30-23:00 / Saturday-Sunday 17:30-23:00

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WOW Power to the people

brand new gem on the Reykjavik restaurant scene.

This is a great place to begin a fun evening. v

Kol Restaurant cent­­ers on the bar where the coun­try’s best cock­­tail bar­­ tend­­ers serve craft cocktails from the best in­­gredi­ents available and offer an ambi­­tious cocktail list to begin and com­­plete the dining exper­­ience.

Promotion

American Bar Austurstræti 8-10 101 Reykjavik Tel: +354 571 9999 Mobile: +354 697 9003 Find us on Facebook/AmericanBarIceland

American Bar American Bar captures the American spirit; land of the free, home of the brave with a unique selection of beer and a simple yet delicious menu. American Bar is a must-visit when in Reykjavik.

Beer selection second to none With more than 50 different kinds of beer you are sure to find the beer that suits your taste. There’s beer made in the Hawaiian Islands as well as beer made from the famous Icelandic water.

Location and experience Located at the heart of Reykjavik, American Bar is easy to find. Once inside you’ll feel at home right away, especially if you’re an American; with decorations like football helmets (find your favorite team) and the American flag.

Live music, live sport and the Wheel of Fortune Live music every night brings the right atmosphere and if you want to shake it up a bit you can hit the

dance floor on weekends and dance into the crazy Reykjavik night. If you are feeling lucky you can always spin the Wheel of Fortune.

Must see that game in the English PL or the Champions League? You will be well taken care of at the American Bar. HD-screens and TVs in every corner make sure that you won’t miss one second of your favorite sport.

Inside and out—all day long With more than 100 seats inside and a great outdoor area on the sunny side (for those wonderful sunny Icelandic summer days) you will always find a seat at a good table. The outside area is truly remarkable, overlooking Dómkirkjan Cathedral and Alþingi (Parliament House). When you think of central Reykjavik this is it! The menu

is simple, yet delicious. The hamburgers, ribs and chicken wings are well-known to the locals for being unique and tasty.

Lunch or dinner, live music or dancing, beer or cocktails; the American Bar has it all and is truly worth the visit! v

Life is short—Drink early!

Located at the heart of Reykjavik, Ameri­can Bar is easy to find. Once inside you’ll feel at home right away, especi­ally if you’re an American; with deco­­rations like football helmets (find your favorite team) and the American flag.

AMERICAN BAR Open: Mondays to Thursday from 11:00 am - 1:00 am - Fri - Sat: 11:00 am - 4:30 am - Sun: 11:00 am - 1:00 am

Issue three 57

Promotion

The English Pub Austurstræti 12 101 Reykjavik Tel: +354 578 0400 Mobile: +354 697 9003 www.enskibarinn.is.

The English Pub – Save water, drink beer For years, Iceland has enjoyed a diverse selection of restaurants and often sophisticated bars. However, one tiny grumble occasionally surfaced from the country’s A ­ nglophiles – simply that there was no proper “pub”.

A

nd so the English Pub was born. From mod­­­­est beginnings it has built a hearty repu­­tation, seeking out, with the advice and guidance of its dedicated customers, the finest ale availa­­ble to mankind. Today it offers its enthusiastic clientele the chance to try a great variety of beers, foreign brands, as well as many local beers that are a must try.

Whisky galore Not content to rest on its laurels, the English Pub has ventured north of its virtual border and also offers the finest selection of whiskies anywhere in the country. Acclaimed assortment of malts includes many of Scotland’s finest, ensuring numerous Icelanders and worldly travelers make

the pilgrimage to the pub’s humble door. Located at the very heart of downtown Reykjavik, the walls of the English Pub are adorned with hundreds of photographs – like an album of the city’s history just waiting to be explored over a quiet beer.

A sporting chance Live sporting coverage is amply catered for, with a choice of six big screens and two TV screens. Inside the pub there is room for up to 150 people, and an outdoor terrace can accommodate plenty more on those balmy Icelandic evenings! Whether it is football (Premier and Champions League), rugby or golf, there are always special offers when live events are being broadcast. Live music every night adds

to the atmosphere. In addition to the happy hour from 4-7pm every day, and for the ones feeling lucky, there is the Wheel of Fortune. Regulars like nothing more than to spin the wheel and chance a “Sorry” or preferably, win what used to be called a Yard of Ale. These days, it’s inevitably known as a meter of beer, but the winners don’t seem to mind! v

Located at the very heart of downtown Reykjavik, the walls of the English Pub are adorned with hundreds of photographs – like an album of the city’s history just waiting to be explored over a quiet beer.

THE ENGLISH PUB Opening hours: Sun-Thurs: 12:00 - 01:00 Fri-Sat: 12-04:30 | Open at 11 am from May 1st to September 1st.

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Promotion

The Lebowski Bar Laugavegur 20 a 101 Reykjavik Tel: +354 552 2300 email: info@lebowskibar.is www.lebowskibar.is

Lebowski Bar THE REYKJAVIK VENUE THAT ROCKS! Walking into this American retro bar, is stepping back in time. And right away you know it’s the right bar for a few White Russians and a real good time. With carefully chosen music from the 50s to the 80s, the atmosphere in Lebowski Bar comes together giving the good vibration that the Dude would definitely abide by! Just walk in to see what condition your condition is in…

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ll kinds of people come here,” the staff proudly explains. “Icelanders, tourists, every­­­body. With food and music that suits everyone, our customers range from age 20 to 85.”

On those rare, but beautiful “warm” days in Iceland, Lebowski is the place to be: the huge outdoor terrace opens whenever the temperature rises above “a steamy 5°C.” But even with all this going for it, what Lebowski Bar prides itself most on is its delicious, diner-style menu with one-of-a-kind burgers, thick and creamy milkshakes, and oh yeah— White Russians. White Russians. Lebowski Bar has over 23 different variations of White Russians, the most popular one being the Cocaucasian, a regular White Russian topped with Cocoa Puffs. Some call it the brunch of champions, others Cocoa Puffs Russian … Either way, it’s delicious!

Where’s the Burger, Lebowski?

Made with 150 grams of beef—that’s more than a quarter pound, for the metrically-challenged— Lebowski Bar’s classic burgers always hit the spot and boast a tempting array of toppings and sauces, from chili-marinated bacon to Japanese mayo.

With its perfect balance of sweet and savory, the Honey Boo, a honey-glazed bacon and BBQ-sauce burger, has been called “the best bacon burger in town” (and there are a lot of them to choose from).

The Other Lebowski, a steak burger made from extra juicy beef tenderloin, is a staff favorite.

Wanna go big? Check out the “Burger of the Month” specialty offerings. Past specialty burgers have included the Once Upon a Time in the West, made with steak tenderloin marinated in La Trappe Quadrupel Ale and served with Jack Daniels BBQ Sauce and caramelized onions, among other tasty toppings. Another limited-time option was the Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, a piquant patty served—appropriately enough—with pepper cheese and chili sauce.

Burgers are clearly the house specialty here. For non-beefy options, Lebowski Bar has something for you, too. Try the Bunny Lebowski Chicken Burger, which was declared “gorgeous” by one happy visitor on Trip Advisor, or The Stranger Veggie Burger.

And if you’re looking for something lighter, there are plenty of bar snacks—from cheese-stuffed jalapeños to onion rings—to enjoy with your beer.

You’re not wrong, Walter.

Lebowski Bar opens 11 am for lunch and there is a DJ every night from 9 pm. All big sports events are shown on all 5 Full HD screens.

“This Reykjavík place is mind-bending,” Trip Ad­­visor user Graham enthused after a recent visit. “The burgers are massive, the chips chunky and the beers and White Russians flow. There’s a happy hour to bring down Iceland’s high prices, and regular bands playing to bring the film’s rockin’ ethos to life.”

Sounds good to us. But you know, that’s just, like, his opinion, man. v

Wanna go big? Check out the “Burger of the Month” specialty offerings. Past specialty burgers have included the Once Upon a Time in the West, made with steak tenderloin marinated in La Trappe Quadrupel Ale and served with Jack Daniels BBQ Sauce and caramelized onions, among other tasty toppings.

FIND IT ON FACEBOOK and Twitter Twitter: @LebowskiBar - Instagram: #LebowskiBar - Opening hours: 11:00 – 01:00 Sun-Thurs and 11:00 – 04:00 Fri/Sat Issue three 59

Promotion

Hressingarskálinn Austurstræti 20 101 Reykjavik Tel: +354 561 2240 www.hresso.is facebook.com/hressingarskalinn

Coffee house, restaurant & night club Hressingarskálinn is a warm place with plenty of seating and a great loca­­tion in down­ town Reykjavik. It’s one of the few places that open at 9 AM to serve breakfast for hungry travelers or locals. Hressingarskálinn is a big part of Reykja­vík’s history; the house was built in 1802 and the restaurant was established in 1932. The house has hosted Hress­ingarskálinn since 1932.

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itting down for a coffee has a magnetic eff­­ ect on Iceland’s most talented art­­­ists and writers. Smokers can have a seat on a heat­­ed patio with service all day. Over the summer, this place really comes alive. The yard is completely sheltered from the wind, allowing you to enjoy food and beverages in the bright sunlight. Thursday to Sunday is usually packed with people from all over the world. It’s a great place to meet strangers for

some interesting story sharing. Live bands play on Fridays and Sat­urdays, guaranteeing a crowd before all the popular DJ’s hit the floor with party tunes from 01:00-04:30 AM. The menu consists of great selections and offers everything from breakfast to a fantastic dinner. Hressingarskálinn offers Icelandic food for curious visitors. You can always try the traditional Icelandic meat soup. If not, there’s lamb or the fish stew – You won’t be

HRESSINGARSKÁLINN Opening hours: Mon-Thu: 9:00 am - 1:00 am Fri-Sat: 10:00 am - 4:30 am Sun: 9:00 am - 1:00 am

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disappointed. Hress­­­ingar­­­skálinn is stylish and old at the same time, a history well preserved.

Check out Hress­­­ingar­skálinn for great prices and awesome fun! v

The menu consists of great sel­­ect­­ions and offers every­thing from breakfast to a fantastic dinner.

Promotion

Sakebarinn Laugavegur 2 101 Reykjavík Tel: +354 777 3311 www.facebook.com/Sakebarinn

The one and only choice for Sushi & Sticks …SO YOU CAN CHECK IT OFF YOUR BUCKET LIST Located in a loft on Laugavegur, the main shopping street, in one of Iceland’s old­est buildings (1886) is a great new restaurant with a great view and an amazing at­mosphere called Sakebarinn. In its beautiful location, surrounded by windows that look down on Austurstræti, (an extension of Laugavegur leading to the Old Town) and up Skólavörðustígur (known for its cafés, local boutiques and art shops with native works), Sakebarinn lies in the very heart of downtown Reykjavík. In the winter you can see the Northern Lights from the balcony and in the summer, the amazing summer sunsets over the harbor.

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he owners of Sakebarinn have a keen interest for the arts and crafts and a wealth of creative assets to play with. Although Sake­­barinn has a strong foundation in pure Japanese cuisine the current style of the restaurant proves that the owners are not afraid to break some of the rules. To them sushi is meant to be an art form.

Along with its handcrafted sushi, Sakebarinn also offers a sel­­ection of sticks and other meat cours­­es, featuring whale and horse and anything that’s fresh and interesting that day. Why live on an island in the middle of the Atlantic if you’re not going take advantage of the natural fauna? Along with the local seafood, Sakebarinn also carries some more exotic things like octopus, just to keep it interesting, and with a little some­­thing for everyone. There’s love on every plate – You will feel

it with each taste. It’s no accident that the place is named Sake­­bar­­inn. It does feature the country’s largest sel­­ection of sake and a shot before a meal can truly enhance the feel of real Japanese dining. It comes in a sur­­prising range of flavors too, everything from really girly fruit sake to the fire spewing alcohol con­­tent of some of the more butch types; potato sake, warm and cold sake and Japanese plum wine. And then of course are the bottles that didn’t make it on to the menu because no one could read the labels and therefore no one knows what they are. Mystery sake! Sakebarinn is a place born to show­­case the talents the staff have collected over the years work­­ing at their first Sushi restau­­rant call­­ed Sushibarinn, which is located on the first floor in the same house. A year and a wild ride later, this sushi family has in­­corporated a

bunch of new and talented people with some great new recipes and skills they didn’t know they had and didn’t even know existed. The walls are hand painted by them, the wine selected by them, the menu is designed by them and the place is loved by them. They also love to present food so their clients become part of their love for sushi.

The look on your face is what they are aiming for, the look of enjoyment. v

Along with the local seafood, Sakebarinn also carries some more exotic things like octopus, just to keep it interesting, and a little some­­thing for everyone.

SAKEBARINN Opening hours: Mon-Sun: 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm Issue three 61

Promotion

Den Danske Kro Ingólfsstræti 3 101 Reykjavík Tel: +354 552 0070 www.dendanske.is

When in Iceland, go Danish!

A vibrant place on the Reykjavík social scene is Den Danske Kro or “The Danish Pub,” a popular downtown venue with locals with happy hour and with live music every night.

D

en Danske Kro serves a variety of beers, in addition to familiar names such as Tuborg and Carlsberg, the Danish Pub serves a selection of seasonal beers from both Denmark and Iceland. During the Christmas months, Den Danske Kro is the home of the Tuborg Christmas Beer or “Julebryg,” a popular drink in Iceland during the darkest months.

check out the interior of the pub and you’ll discover an off-the-wall design in its most literal sense!

Den Danske Kro is a great place to hang out with friends, play darts, watch sports, enjoy the occasional sun and watch the world go by on the outside terrace.

And to get into the spirit of things, we recommend you try a glass of the customary Gammel Dansk bitters, a traditional Danish schnapps.

Cozy Copenhagen style

The place to party

The Danes have a word to describe a cozy, friendly atmosphere—“hyggelig” and that’s something the owners of the Danish Pub have worked hard to create in this home away from home within a pub. Just

Den Danske Kro, as said before, is a popular venue among locals, and as soon as happy hour kicks off, the place starts filling up with people from the neighborhood and others who want to finish the

DEN DANSKE KRO Opening hours: Sun-Thurs 12:00 – 01:00 and Fri-Sat 12:00 – 05:00

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WOW Power to the people

workday with a cold beer. Every night there’s live music where you can request your all-time favorite.

During the weekend Den Danske Kro is open late.

The bartenders will be happy to see you and you are welcome to dance and sing with the guests until the morning. v

Den Danske Kro serves a variety of beers, in addition to familiar names such as Tuborg and Carlsberg, the Danish Pub serves a selection of seasonal beers from both Denmark and Iceland.

Promotion

Bar Ananas & SmakkBarinn Klapparstigur 38 101 Reykjavik E-mail: bookings@barco.is Tel: +354 774 4 404

A taste of summer Whatever the season, you can count on it being summer at Bar Ananas and just to make things even more interesting, they’re now offering a brand new tapas experience in a cozy establishment downstairs called SmakkBarinn.

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eel the beach in the snow! Or at least have a little flashback while drinking cocktails with pineapple. Yup, it’s a beach bar in Iceland!

A tropical theme designed to conquer over the cold winter. How COOL… WARM! is that? So when you don’t feel like doing that northern lights tour or going with all the other tourists into the Blue Lagoon, you can always check out the happy hour at Bar Ananas. Drink some cocktails and have the sur­­roundings constantly reminding you of warm weather and the beach. Unique in Iceland because nobody thought it would work – well, they’ve all been proven wrong. Bar Ananas is a popular spot on the Reykjavik night­­life scene with cool DJ’s all the time. Below is a restaurant called SmakkBarinn which serves Icelandic tapas. You can even order from them and eat it at the beach. No reason to give up a good tan!

SmakkBarinn A cozy place in the heart of Reykjavík, Smakk­­­ Bar­­inn and Bar Ananas are just a short walk from Lauga­­vegur, Reykjavik’s main shopping street.

SmakkBarinn offers tapas in jars and it’s all Ice­­ landic with many cool combinations of food to try out. For the sake of variety, their menu changes all the time. Eating at SmakkBarinn is one thrill after another; you can taste everything on the menu without having to sell your car. All their tapas dishes are presented in jars perfect both for dining out and also just for getting a snack with some friends and still come out happy you didn’t spend a fortune on a whole meal. The next best part is the beer… Oh yeah! You can taste that too in jars.

Whatever you decide to do in Iceland, you might want to try out some Icelandic tapas and party the night away at Iceland’s all season beach bar. v

SmakkBarinn offers tapas in jars and it’s all Icelandic with many cool combinations of food to try out. For the sake of variety, their menu changes all the time. Eating at SmakkBarinn is one thrill after another; you can taste everything on the menu without having to sell your car.

You’ll find both Bar Ananas and SmakkBarinn on Facebook Issue three 63

THINK SMART Smart. Geiri Smart. A place for happy gourmands. A creative kitchen and smartly dressed surroundings. No culinary dogma, only endless adventures inspired by the most fresh and exciting raw materials our champion chefs can find.

Hurrah! Hurrah! Hurrah!

Hverfisgata 30 | 528 7050 | geirismart.is | geiri@geirismart.is

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Promotion

Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Marina Tel.: +354 560 8080 | www.slippbarinn.is

Icelandair Hotel Akureyri Tel.: +354 518 100 | www.aurorarestaurant.is

FOUR EXTRAORDINARY RESTAURANTS FOR FINE DINING OR A CASUAL LUNCH

Icelandair Hotel Reykjavík Natura Tel.: +354 444 4050 | www.sattrestaurant.is

Hilton Reykjavík Nordica Tel.: +354 444 5050 | www.vox.is Issue three 65

Promotion

Bazaar Hringbraut 121 101 Reykjavik Tel: 519-3510 www.bazaaroddsson.is Email: hello@bazaaroddsson.is

Karaoke in the middle of a restaurant?

Bazaar How on earth does that work? Well, thankfully, it is 100% soundproof, so you can enjoy your meal in peace while your friends sing their heads off!

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azaar restaurant is part of the ODDSSON concept, located at the ODDSSON Hotel in a re­­­novated warehouse not far from downtown Reykjavik. The idea of ODDSSON and Bazaar is to merge design, art, cuisine and culture to create a relaxing yet exciting atmosphere for both locals and guests. The old warehouse is a perfect fit for the concept where original exposed concrete walls are juxtaposed with velvet curtains and retro designer furniture to soften and warm the open space. The large curving windows reveal expansive views of the ocean, the mountains and the breathtaking sunsets.

Dinner and Karaoke Bazaar is an Italian restaurant, offering homemade pasta dishes and wood oven pizzas. Bazaar also

serves fresh fish daily and various meat dishes for meat lovers, but there are also excellent vegan dishes that are becoming quite popular, not only for vegans. The Bazaar burger is a best seller, with crispy parmesan fries and truffle mayo. Bazaar serves both lunch and dinner every day and during weekends there is also an impressive brunch menu.

Last but not least is the wildly popular karaoke room, a mirrored cubicle in the middle of the restaurant, and YES, it is 100% soundproof. You might think karaoke is boring or not for you, but the minute you step into this room, you start fighting for the mike.

BAZAAR RESTAURANT Opening hours: 11:30am-11pm -Happy hour from 2-6 pm.

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Bazaar’s white marble bar in the middle of the space attracts locals for happy hour from 2-6 pm.

The bar’s emphasis is on local beers, classic cocktails and local and international whiskeys, bourbons and gins.

In the summer, when the sun never sets, the beauti­­­ful patio attracts the locals who need to com­­ pensate for the lack of sunlight in the winter! Come and enjoy a meal, or a glass of wine, and mingle on the patio among the locals. Last but not least is the wildly popular karaoke room, a mirrored cubicle in the middle of the restaurant, and YES, it is 100% soundproof. You might think karaoke is boring or not for you, but the minute you step into this room, you start fighting for the mike. Welcome to Bazaar, we look forward to seeing you! v

Promotion

Yogafood Hringbraut 121 101 Reykjavik Tel: 519-2290 www.yogafood.is Email: tobba@yogafood.is

Taste the love

Yogafood

Yogafood is a new restaurant located at ODDSSON Hotel in the “JL House,” not far from downtown Reykjavik. Whether you want to grab some fresh red beet juice, a green smoothie to take on your trip or sit down for a healthy lunch, Yogafood has it all.

Y

ogafood serves a variety of healthy breakfast items and offers a delicious lunch menu, all gluten-free and with no added sugar. Yoga­­ food’s atmosphere is quite unique as it is locat­ed at ODDSSON Hotel where the designers chang­ed an old warehouse into a haven for furniture lovers, featuring furniture from designers all over the world. Despite original raw concrete walls and bare ventilation ducts, Yogafood offers a cozy environ­ ment with its thick velvet curtains and colorful furni­­ture.

Nourishing the chakras Yogafood’s concept designer is Thorbjörg, an Ice­­landic internationally recognized nutritionist and author of many lifestyle books and health

cook­­books. Her latest is about Yoga and Yogafood.

She has lived in Denmark for the past 30 years but moved back home last summer to fulfill her dream of opening up her own health food restaurant. The concept of the food is based on vitality and energy including the 7 chakras, which for those who are familiar with yoga, know that all have their specific meaning and qualities. The juices and drinks served at Yogafood, are made with a specific chakra in mind, and you can choose off the menu according to what chakra you want to strengthen. If you don’t know anything about yoga or the chakras, no worries, just come and enjoy the tasty and high-quali­­ty food.

On the menu, you will, for example, find a Moroc­ can vegetarian dish, a deeply satisfying vegan Indian dish, a hearty Chili sin carne with a quinoa

salsa salad or a colorful Caribbean veggie mix with coconut-carrot salad. If you want something lighter, grab a gluten-free sandwich with pesto and grilled zucchini and a refreshing sun energy juice to go with it. And don’t miss out on the delectable sugar-free desserts; they look amazing, and taste even better.

The aim at Yogafood is for you to TASTE THE LOVE in every bite you take. v

Yogafood’s concept designer is Thorbjörg, an Ice­­landic internationally recognized nutritionist and author of many lifestyle books and health cook­­ books. Her latest is about Yoga and Yogafood.

YOGAFOOD Opening hours: 7am-5pm Issue three 67

Promotion

Kopar Restaurant Geirsgata 3 101 Reykjavik Tel: +354 567 2700 www.koparrestaurant .is / info@koparrestaurant .is

Kopar Restaurant by the old harbor KOPAR RESTAURANT IS SITUATED BY REYKJAVIK‘S ROMANTIC HARBOR, IN ONE OF THE OLD GREEN FISHERMAN‘S HUTS.

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he fishing industry still thrives in Reykja­­­vik, so the old harbor is full of life. In the morning, fishermen go out to sea and return later with their catch of the day. As you stand on the pier you can feel the history of Reykjavik and watch the harbor life: fishing boats, fishermen, the catch, and young kids with their rods trying their luck off the pier. Meanwhile passersby are walking about and enjoying life. This fresh and energetic atmosphere of the old harbor is all part of the experience when you dine at Kopar. Kopar is a seafood restaurant

featuring locally caught seafood and crustaceans.

They are especially proud of their crab soup, made with Icelandic rock crab from Hvalfjordur. Kopar offers a variety of Icelandic produce, including wild game, although the main emphasis is seafood, the fruit of the ocean.

Kopar‘s head chef, Ylfa, is a member of the gold medal winning national culinary team. She pre­­­ pares the seafood in a unique and delicate manner, in­­tent on giving you an unforgetable experience.

Delight yourself with great service and atmosphere,

delicious food and the best view in town. When visiting Reykjavik, enjoying a night out at Kopar is a must. v

Kopar‘s head chef, Ylfa, is a member of the gold medal winning national culinary team. She prepares the seafood in a unique and delicate manner, intent on giving you an unforgetable experience.

KOPAR RESTAURANT Opening hours: Mondays to Thursday from 11:30-22:30 - Fridays from 11:30-23:30 - Saturdays from 12:00-23:30 - Sundays from 18:00-22:30

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NATURE PARADISE IN BREIDAFJORDUR AND VESTMANNAEYJAR ICELAND'S LARGEST & SMALLEST INHABITED ISLANDS

brjánslækur flatey stykkishólmur

reykjavík

landeyjahöfn vestmannaeyjar

Issue three 69

WOW Cyclothon 2017

Around Iceland in the midnight sun WOW Cyclothon is the biggest cycling event in Iceland and it might even be the biggest ultra-cycling race in the world if you consider the number of participants on the road. Last year over 1,000 cyclists and team assistants took on the challenge of riding around Iceland’s Ring Road in under 72 or 84 hours, enjoying the great outdoors, the team spirit and the excitement of completing the challenge.

Photos: Kristinn Magnússon

WOW Cyclothon is not just a race around Iceland but rather an un­­­forgettable experience that everyone who can ride a bike should try at least once in their life. Cycling around Ice­­­land is not that hard, especially when you can share the course with your team. What will eventually floor you when taking on a race like WOW Cyclothon is the nature, the 24 hours of daylight and the calmness of cycling in Iceland’s “Middle of Nowhere” by the light of the midnight sun.

A GOOD CAUSE WOW Cyclothon promotes healthy living and outdoor activities in the beautiful nature of Iceland while raising money for a good cause. The funds raised during WOW Cyclothon 2017 will go toward supporting ICE-SAR, an inde­­ pendent association that has an exten­­ sive role in rescue work in Iceland.

Bicycles are increasingly being used for search and rescue in Iceland, so it’s

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WOW Power to the people

WOW Cyclothon promotes healthy living and outdoor activities in the beautiful nature of Iceland while raising money for a good cause.

fitting that this big cycling event will now support the work of ICE-SAR. Thousands of volunteers dedicate them­­­selves to work for ICE-SAR rescue teams, accident prevention divisions and youth sections. Their joint mission is to prevent accidents and save human lives and valuables. To fulfill that role, there are groups of volunteers available, night and day, year round, ready to gear up and head out in any weather.

Buying and maintaining professional equip­­ment and training thousands of volun­­

teers is not without cost. ICE-SAR is not a govern­­ment funded organization and relies on the support of its benefactors and all Icelanders to be able to continue its work.

Pledging to the WOW Cyclothon teams this summer will not only inspire the cyc­­lists on their journey but also be used for the good of all people living in or traveling to Iceland.

CYCLOTHON HISTORY WOW Cyclothon, a relay bike race where team members take turns cycling on

WHO WILL BE THERE? There’s a great variety of teams competing in the WOW Cyclothon; longtime friends, work colleagues, extended families, gym buddies and professional cyclists; there are all women’s teams, all men’s teams and mixed teams. Some take part to win, some to enjoy nature and others do it for the extraordinary fun but all are in for the challenge of a lifetime in a race they will never forget. v Some take part to win, some to enjoy nature and others do it for the extra­­or­dinary fun but all are in for the challenge of a lifetime in a race they will never forget.

Iceland’s Ring Road in less than 72 hours, is the brainchild of Magnus Ragnarsson VP of Media and Markets at Iceland Telecom and WOW air’s CEO Skuli Mogensen, both of whom have somewhat of a competitive streak. While talking and comparing notes on their previous challenges, mostly triathlons, and brainstorming what chall­­enges to take on next, they realized that no such challenge existed in Iceland. They concluded that if they wanted to take on a big challenge in Ice­­­land they would have to create one themselves. Then the idea of cycling around the country came up.

From this great idea, the WOW Cyclothon became a reality and has been gaining momentum ever since.

Follow WOW Cyclothon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and flip through the live feed from the competition for additional photos and insights. You can also check out photos from the teams by checking out #wowcyclothon on Instagram. Add WOW Cyclothon (wowcyclothon) on SnapChat for additional material and fun.

It’s not too late

Visit wowcyclothon.com for more information about the race and how to sign up. If you’re a dedicated ultra-cyclist, start training now and get ready for the solo category of 2018.

Visit www.wowcyclothon.com for more information.

All you need in one place • Skólavör›ustígur 19 tel.: (+354) 552 1890 SWEATERS AND SOUVENIERS, NO KNITTING MATERIAL:

• Radisson Blu, Hótel SAGA tel.: (+354) 562 4788 • Laugavegur 53b tel.: (+354) 562 1890 www.handknit.is

Issue three 71

Base HotelHostel at Ásbrú

STAY OVER

It’s all about the Base The recently opened Base HotelHostel at Ásbrú is a budget accommodation conveniently located near Keflavik Airport on the Reykjanes Peninsula.

Base HotelHostel is at a former NATO base used by the US Army until 2006. The hotel is located in two buildings where US Army families once resided and it embraces the 55-year history of the army’s presence in Iceland in its overall theme, with quirky little touches and photographs.

“We looked to the area’s history and decided to create a positive concept revolving around that history. A big part of the design process was creating a warm, comfortable and fun space that could hold all the modern art that’s now on display. To add to the challenge, everything we did must be low-cost and to keep costs down we kept a lot of the furniture that was left in the house. A good example of that are the rocking chairs found in most rooms, which were used by the army families during the military’s stay in Iceland,” says Leifur Welding, hotel designer.

PERFECT FOR STOPOVERS Base HotelHostel is perfect for short stopovers in Iceland and as a base for exploring the Reykjanes Peninsula and Southwest Iceland. The affordable rooms cater to all types of travelers. “Base Hotel has a lot to offer, the lone traveler

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just looking for a place to rest, the couple for a fun place to be, or the family needing more space. With our community kitchen, laundry room, TV lounges, library, game room, 24-hour reception and bar, and shuttle to and from the airport we try to meet everyone’s needs without aband­oning our policy of being the most affordable accom­­modation in the area.

The Base is not just a place to stay, it’s a place to live, even if it’s just for a few days,” says Base hotel manager Richard Eckard.

At Base HotelHostel you’ll find hostelstyle dorm rooms for the extremely cost conscious, suites for the private but thrifty

Get comfortable and check out www.basehotel.is for more infor­­ mation and booking.

and anything in between for everyone else who just like to stay within their budget but still get a good night’s rest.

YOUR BASE IN ICELAND Because the Base HotelHostel is located close to Keflavik Airport a lot of precious time is saved on arrivals and departures for those on a brief WOW Stopover in Iceland. This affords guests more time to explore the Reykjanes Peninsula, a geologically young area displaying Iceland’s magnificent nature. From the Northern Lights to helicopter flights— whale watching to geothermal springs, the Reykjanes Peninsula’s got it all! v

Never mind the chocolate, puffin dolls or the key ring.

If you really want a souvenir that will last, a tattoo is the way to go.

WEBSTORE

You can also shop our merchandise and more at our shop or online at www.reykjavikink.is /reykjavikink

/reykjavikink

reykjavikink@reykjavikink.is

We are open Monday – Saturday 12 pm-8pm - We are located on Frakkastíg 7, 101 Reykjavík

Issue three 73

design

Hildur Hafstein Jewelry

by Gerður Harðardóttir Photos: Golli, Luis Rodriguez

Seeking inspiration from Eastern spirituality, the nomadic culture of the gypsies and the hippies with their free-spirited flower power, Hildur Hafstein’s ethically sourced and handcrafted jewelry is both exquisitely colorful and feminine.

Hildur herself is a bit of a nomad—born in Sweden, raised in Iceland and educated in Spain. Hildur studied textile design at the Ice­­land Academy of the Arts and fashion design in Barcelona before embarking on a successful career as a costume designer and stylist. Inspired while taking part in an interdisciplinary course of arts and philosophy, partly run by the Iceland Academy of the Arts, Hildur finally turned her cre­­ative talents to jewelry design, establishing her own jewelry label, Hildur Hafstein, back in 2010.

HEALING JEWELS Hildur uses sterling silver, gold plated sterling silver and gold in her handcrafted jewelry, often adorn­­ing her work with natural semi-pre­cious and precious gemstones such as amethyst, aqua­­ mar­­­ine, opals and ruby. The gemstones used all poss­­ess qualities meant to radiate healing energy and metaphysical properties to the person wearing them and there’s a handwritten note detailing the heal­­ing properties of each gemstone used. Each

Hildur herself is a bit of a nomad—born in Sweden, raised in Iceland and educated in Spain.

Hildur studied textile design at the Ice­­land Academy of the Arts and fashion design in Barcelona before embarking on a successful career as a costume designer and stylist.

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piece of jewelry works beautifully on its own but even better when several are casually thrown together with abandon.

Hildur’s latest collection, Gold Chala, launched during this year’s DesignMarch, consists of bracelets and rings made of pure gold. v For more information, go to hildurhafstein.com

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Issue three 75

Tel: (+354) 462 6800 • info@ambassador.is • ambassador.is

design

Highlights from Design March 2017

For the ninth year running, the Icelandic Design Centre organized DesignMarch, Iceland’s largest design festival, held in March each year.

Kicking off with DesignTalks, a day of lectures by local and internationally acclaimed designers, Reykjavik was for the better part of the next week dedicated to Icelandic design with around 100 events, parties and workshops taking place all over the city. Here are some of the highlights from this year’s Design March.

by Gerður Harðardóttir Photos: Courtesy of respective designers

RAUS REYKJAVÍK Raus Reykjavik is a brand new jewelry company presenting its first collection during this year’s DesignMarch. The ONE collection was designed in collaboration with the Blue Lagoon with the designs inspired by micrographs of the lagoon’s silica. Necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets in gold, silver and white gold were cleverly displayed in a purpose-built glass cage along with swimming rainbow fish. raus.is

HILDUR YEOMAN+66°NORTH Fashion designer Hildur Yeoman and outdoor clothing company 66°North have each looked to the Atlantic Ocean for inspiration with 66°North producing protective clothing for Icelandic fishermen and workers since 1926. For the 2017 Design March, Hildur and 66°North teamed up with Hildur designing a special wave print which was woven into knitted pieces in a limited edition of a 66°North collection consisting of a sexy raincoat, knitted sweaters and accessories suitable for both sexes.

Hilduryeoman.com 66north.com

ANGAN EXPERIENCE Trotting between presentations and parties can leave you quite exhausted no matter how much fun you’re having, so the event set up by ANGAN, a new Icelandic sustainable and handcrafted skin care brand, provided a welcome oasis of relaxation during busy DesignMarch. Guests were invited to visit, be pampered and stimulate all their senses at the Isafold Spa in Centerhotel Þingholt in downtown Reykjavik, where they got a chance to try out the organic Angan products in the spa’s beautiful and relaxing surroundings.

Anganskincare.com

ÁGÚSTAV AGUSTAV, a furniture and production company run by Gústav Jóhannsson and Ágústa Magnúsdóttir employs a comprehensive design and manufacturing process, producing beautifully crafted highend furniture where form and functionality merge in pieces meant to last a lifetime. All production materials are carefully selected and skillfully crafted into unique quality pieces of furniture prized for their refined aesthetics and functionality.

Agustav.com

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WOW Power to the people

Refuel at Olís We welcome you to our service stations around Iceland where you can refuel and enjoy our services. Great variety of tasty food and beverages and everything else you might need on the road.

Visit us at olis.is/travel

FREE FUEL DISCOUNT CARD

FREE COFFEE WITH DISCOUNT CARD

FREE WI-FI

OPEN 24 HOURS

Since 1927

Issue three 77

design

Highlights from Design March 2017

SHAPES OF SOUND Inspired by her daughter’s sound-making toys, product designer Þórunn Árnadóttir has been experimenting with quite a novel idea recently. Salvaging soundboards from broken plastic toys, Þórunn has proceeded to give the soundboards an extended life in minimalistic cases of basic geometric shapes and raw Icelandic materials such as lava, pine, aluminum and wool. The shapes and material choice are a minimalistic interpretation of each sound, with an aluminum cylinder making car sounds when rolled while a cube made of lava stone, representing an elf house, tinkles when held. During an interactive exhibition, guests were allowed to test the toys and study Þórunn’s design process through her sketches and reflections.

Thorunndesign.com

SUSTAINABLE LEISURE LANDSCAPES Representing what’s happening in the field of architecture, Dutch design firm NOHNIK architecture and landscapes, the University of Iceland, Skaftárhreppur municipality in the south, UNESCO Katla Geopark and Vatnajökull National Park exhibited their collaboration for an ambitious project.

The project features a holistic vision for sustainable leisure landscapes in the Skaftárhreppur municipality. Its vision is based on preserving the landscape’s qualities while improving the visitor’s experience in this area of ever-increasing tourism. nohnik.com

CONTEMPORARY ICELANDIC DESIGN ON STAMPS For the last few years, the Iceland Post has issued new postage stamps dedicated to contemporary Icelandic design through its ‘Icelandic Contemporary Design’ series. This year the stamps, designed by graphic designer Örn Smári, feature textile designs by designers Anita Hirlekar, Bryndís Bolladóttir, Ragna Fróða and Vík Prjónsdóttir. During Design March, the stamps were displayed in an enlarged version next to the original textile at design store Epal.

Ornsmari.is Anitahirlekar.co.uk Bryndisbolladottir.com Ragnafroda.com Vikprjonsdottir.com SIGRÚN GUÐMUNDSDÓTTIR CERAMICIST At clothing brand’s Farmers Market flagship store, located in the so-called Fish Packing District of Reykjavík, by the old harbor, ceramicist Sigrún Guðmundsdóttir exhibited pitch-black flower pots with both color and texture reminding one of Iceland’s sweeping black beaches and rolling lava fields. Strategically placed handles adorned the otherwise starkly minimalistic vases with each vase serving as a unique piece of functional art. With a background in ballet, Sigrún now teaches ceramics and only produces her own work sporadically, making her pieces even more desirable when they do become available. v

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BREYTTUR TOLLKVÓTI OG MEIRI SVEIGJANLEIKI

DUTY FREE ALLOWANCES IN ARRIVAL STORE

6 1

einingar og þú raðar þeim saman eins og þú vilt. units of alcohol, any way you like it. eining = 25 cl af sterku áfengi eða 75 cl af léttvíni og léttum líkjörum eða 3 l af bjór, síder eða gosblöndum. unit = 25 cl strong spirits or 75 cl wine and aperitif or 3 l beer, cider and alcopop.

FYLLA TOLLKVÓTANN MEÐ EINUM VÖRUFLOKKI? ALL YOUR DUTY FREE ALLOWANCES FROM ONE CATEGORY? STERKT ÁFENGI SPIRITS 22—55%

LÉTTVÍN OG LÍKJÖRAR WINE AND APERITIF <22%

BJÓR, SÍDER OG GOSBLÖNDUR BEER, CIDER AND ALCOPOP

6 einingar/units – 1,5 l

6 einingar/units — 4,5 l (6 flöskur/bottles 75 cl)

6 einingar/units — 18 l (36 dósir/cans 50 cl)

TILLÖGUR AÐ SAMSETNINGUM MIX & MATCH SUGGESTIONS STERKT ÁFENGI

BJÓR, SÍDER OG GOSBLÖNDUR

SPIRITS 22—55% 1 FLASKA 1 BOTTLE

4 einingar/units — 1 l

BEER, CIDER AND ALCOPOP

+

STERKT ÁFENGI

4 einingar/units — 1 l

WINE AND APERITIF <22%

+

LÉTTVÍN OG LÉTTIR LÍKJÖRAR WINE AND APERITIF <22% T.D. 3 FLÖSKUR E.G. 3 BOTTLES

3 einingar/units — 75 cl

2 einingar/units — 50 cl

LÉTTVÍN OG LÉTTIR LÍKJÖRAR

SPIRITS 22—55% 1 FLASKA 1 BOTTLE

12 DÓSIR 12 CANS

T.D. 2 FLÖSKUR E.G. 2 BOTTLES

2 einingar/units — 75 cl

BJÓR, SÍDER OG GOSBLÖNDUR BEER, CIDER AND ALCOPOP

+

18 DÓSIR 18 CANS

3 einingar/units — 50 cl Issue three 79

The Vatnajokull Region

Take a walk on the wild side The Vatnajökull Region stretches over a large area of Southeast Iceland, one of the most spectacular parts of the island.

Photos: Þorvarður Árnason

Here you can find glacier tongues resting on the green fields of the lowland, in­­­credible glacial lagoons with float­­ing icebergs, the highest peak in Iceland and the country’s deep­­est lake. You will see im­­ pressive black sand beaches, color­­ful mountains and deep valleys in one of Iceland’s best trekk­­ing areas.

This used to be a very isolated area, closed between glacier tongu­es and impassable glacial rivers. With the Atlantic Ocean ruling on one side and the ma­­ jestic Vatnajökull Ice Cap on the other, residents have lived in the lowlands on the south side of the glacier in intimate union with nature. They’ve endured difficult climatic conditions, farming the short stretch of land there.

THE MÝRAJÖKLAR TRAIL Along with having the best access to Vatnajökull National Park, the area offers rich birdlife and occassionally, an encounter with reindeer and seals. The rich nature, together with excellent tourist services make the Vatna­­­ jök­­ull Region one of the most fasci­­nating and most visited are­as of the country, perfect for hik­­­ers seeking new and exciting paths.

The Vatnajökull Region presents a new walking trail from Haukafell to Skálafell called Mýrajöklar.

This trail is a part of a larger walk­­ ing route being developed there, that upon completion will extend from Skaftafell in the west to Lóns­öræfi in the east.

The Mýrajöklar Trail is a 22 km long hike that takes you between three glacier tongues where you can learn about the flora and fauna of the area as well as get a glimpse of the ways of life there.

Mýrajöklar is the second part of the walking route. Part one is a 15 km long trail between three ice lagoons from Fjallsárlón to Jökuls­árlón.

LIFE UNDER THE GLACIER The Vatnajokull Region is domi­­ nat­­­­ed by the great Vatna­­­jökull, the largest glacier in Europe (8,000 km2) and has been sculp­­ tur­ed by it. Numerous vol­­canoes lie under the ice, cre­ating the dramatic coexistence of fire and ice. The glacier has also created its own culture and a particular way of living based on how the inhabitants have need­­ed to adapt to changes in climate, with colder climates in the past and global warming in the present.

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HÖFN AND THE LOBSTER FESTIVAL There is one town in the area, Höfn, a lively fishing town with a population of 1800.

Höfn, famously known as The Lobster Capital of Iceland, celebrates this delightful delicacy every summ­er at the end of June with The Lobster Festival. Here you can enjoy a pure Icelandic town festi­ val with a taste, and apart from that, lovely restaurants offer this precious product as well as various other local speci­al­ties year-round.

Höfn is also a great base for exploring the magni­­ficent lands of Vatnajökull National Park. Be sure to drop by at the park’s visitor center in the beautiful historical building, Gamlabúð, by the harbor.

cream and meat products. The local restaurants use these pure locally grown ingredients and offer a great way to get a Taste of the Vatnajökull Region.

ACTIVITY, ACCOMMODATION AND RESTAURANTS Much of the activity in the Vatna­­­­jökull Region revolves around the glacier and the sur­­­­rounding nature. You can choose between glacier walks and ice climbing, a thrilling snow­­­­mobile ride on Vatnajökull, kayak­­ing in Heinaberglón Lagoon or a comfortable tour of Europe’s largest ice cap in a super jeep. The area also offers geothermal baths at Hoffell, rein­­deer excursions, a visit to the Thorbergssetur cultural muse­ um, the local handicraft store, the petting zoo at Hólmur and much more. There are various possibilities in accommodations to suit different needs and you’ll be sure to find a warm welcome by knowledgeable hosts.

Several restaurants are in the area and most of them offer local food made in the Vatnajökull Region. Be sure to ask for the local beer Vatnajökull, brewed with water from the icebergs in Jökuls­­árlón Glacier Lagoon and locally sourced arctic thyme.

TASTE OF VATNAJOKULL

ACCESSIBLE YEAR ROUND

Within the Vatnajökull Region lies a wealth of local food producers that are using the fresh water from Vatnajökull Glacier to pro­­­­duce fresh, pure ingredients for our local restaurants. Visit the beautiful area and experi­­ ence local food straight from the producers. Along with its lobst­­­­er, or langoustine, the region also offers fresh locally grown vegetables, farm fresh ice

The Vatnajökull Region is well accessible year-round due to good weather conditions and fre­­quent transportation. Eagle Air has a daily flight from Reykja­vík to Höfn Airport during the summ­ ertime and five days a week dur­­ ing other seasons. Buses be­­tween Reykjavík and Höfn (Strætó) are scheduled daily through­­out the year. There are also three car rental companies in Höfn. v

The Vatnajökull Region presents a new walking trail from Hauka­­ fell to Skálafell called Mýrajöklar. This trail is a part of a larger walk­­ ing route being developed there, that upon com­­pletion will extend from Skaftafell in the west to Lóns­öræfi in the east.

For more information, go to www.visitvatnajokull.is

Issue three 81

32 discount stores around Iceland Ísafjörður

Akureyri 2 stores

FIND YOUR Stykkishólmur

STORE Borgarnes Akranes Geysir

Gullfoss

Hveragerði Reykjavík Reykjanesbær Kópavogur 2 stores

Garðabær Hafnarfjörður Mosfellsbær

Selfoss

Seljalandsfoss

20 stores

Skógafoss 82

WOW Power to the people

Vestmannaeyjar

Reynisfjara

Voted most popular company in Iceland

2014 - 2015 - 2016

Chosen by the Icelandic Buisness Magazine

1

#

2014

1

#

1

#

2015

Egilsstaรฐir

HOURS

OPENING

2016

Monday-Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

11:00 - 18:30 10:00 - 19:30 10:00 - 18:00 12:00 - 18:00 Issue three 83

rm

s Declaration Fo

The U.S. Custom

Pour remplir ce formulaire, utilisez uniquement des majuscules. Si vous faites une erreur, notre personnel vous donnera un nouveau formulaire.

Chaque voyageur entrant ou chef de famille entrant doit fournir les informations suivantes (UNE SEULE déclaration par famille)

What is this and why do I need to fill this out?

Before you arrive in the U.S., you will need to fill out the US Customs Declaration Form. If you‘re traveling with your family only the head of the family needs to fill out the form. When you arrive on US soil you will hand this form to the U.S. Customs agent.

Français Le formulaire de déclaration en douane américaine

Qu’est-ce que c’est et pourquoi dois-je en remplir un?

Avant votre arrivée aux États-Unis, vous devrez remplir le formulaire de déclaration en douane américaine. Si vous voyagez avec votre famille, seul le chef de famille doit le remplir. Lorsque vous arrivez sur le sol américain, vous donnez ce formulaire aux autorités douanières américaines.

Si vous voyagez avec des fruits, nous vous recommandons de les jeter avant ou pendant votre vol vers les États-Unis mais que se passe-t-il si vous répondez « oui » à l’une de ces questions ? Ce n’est pas aussi terrible que ça en a l’air et dire la vérité vous évitera pas mal d’ennuis et une amende pouvant aller jusqu’à 300 $. Consultez la page 86 pour obtenir plus d’informations si vous répondez « OUI ».

GET YOUR DESIGNER BR ANDS TA X F R E E AT K E F L AV I K A I R P O R T

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WOW Power to the people

1.

Nom, Prénom, Initiale du deuxième prénom.

2.

Date de naissance Jour/Mois/Année.

3.

Nombre de personnes voyageant avec vous.

4.

(a) Adresse Aux États-Unis (Destination ou nom de l‘hôtel) (b) Ville (c) Etat

5.

Lieu de délivrace du passeport (nom du pays)

6.

Numéro de passeport

7.

Pays de résidence

8.

Pays visités pendant ce voyage avant l‘arrivée aux aux Etats-Unis

9. Ligne aérienne / numéro du vol / Nom de vaisseau 10. Vous voyagez pour raison d‘affaires: OUI/NON 11.

Je suis / nous sommes porteurs de (a) fruits, plantes, produits alimentaires, insectes: OUI/NON (b) viandes, animaux, produits provenant d‘animaux ou d’animaux sauvages: OUI/NON (c) agents pouvant causer des maladies, cultures cellulaires, escargots: OUI/NON

This Space For Official Use Only

U.S. Customs and Border Protection Welcomes You to the United States

(d) terre. J‘ai / Nous avons visité une exploitation agricole en dehors des Etats-Unis: OUI/NON

12. J‘ai / nous avons touché ou traité du bétail: OUI/NON 13.

Je suis / nous sommes porteurs d‘espèces ou d‘instruments monétaires d‘une valeur équivalente en monnaie des États Unis ou de tout autre pays (Voir définition d‘instruments monétaire au verso) á plus de 10 000$ US: OUI/NON

14.

Je suis / nous sommes en possession de marchandises commerciales (articles des tinés à la vente, échantillon de démonstration ou tout autre article autresque des effets personnels): OUI/NON

15.

Résidents - la valeur totale des biens, y compris la marchandise commerciale, que j’ai/nous avons achetés ou acquis à l’étranger (y compris les cadeaux pour une autre personne, mais pas les articles envoyés aux États-Unis) et que je/ nous rapportons aux États-Unisest de: montant en USD

Customs Declaration

FORM APPROVED OMB NO.1651-0009

19 CFR 122.27, 148.12, 148.13, 148.110, 148.111, 1498; 31 CFR 5316

Each arriving traveler or responsible family member must provide the following information (only ONE written declaration per family is required).

The term "family" is defined as "members of a family residing in the same household who are related by blood, marriage, domestic relationship, or adoption."

1 Family Name First (Given) 2 Birth date

MAGNUSSON HAKON 0 2

Month

VALUR Year 8 0 2

Middle Day

1 7

3 Number of Family members traveling with you 4 (a) U.S. Street Address (hotel name/destination)

BOSTON HARBOR HOTEL 70 ROWES WHARF (c) State MA BOSTON Passport issued by (country) ICELAND Passport number A0182382 Country of Residence ICELAND FRANCE ~ SPAIN Countries visited on this (b) City

5 6 7 8

trip prior to U.S. arrival

9 Airline/Flight No. or Vessel Name

WW-125

10 The primary purpose of this trip is business:

x

Yes

No

(a) fruits, vegetables, plants, seeds, food, insects:

Yes

No

(b) meats, animals, animal/wildlife products:

Yes

No

(c) disease agents, cell cultures, snails:

Yes

No

(d) soil or have been on a farm/ranch/pasture:

Yes

No

12 I have (We have) been in close proximity of livestock: Yes

No

x x x x x

Yes

No

x

Yes

No

x

11 I am (We are) bringing

(such as touching or handling) 13 I am (We are) carrying currency or monetary instruments over $10,000 U.S. or foreign equivalent: (see definition of monetary instruments on reverse) 14 I have (We have) commercial merchandise: (articles for sale, samples used for soliciting orders, or goods that are not considered personal effects)

Visiteurs - La valeur totale de tous les articles qui resteront aux États-Unis, y compris la marchandise commerciale est de : USD Signez sur la ligne pour déclarer que votre déclaration est véridique.

15 RESIDENTS—the total value of all goods, including commercial merchandise I/we have purchased or acquired abroad, (including gifts for someone else but not items mailed to $ the U.S.) and am/are bringing to the U.S. is: VISITORS—the total value of all articles that will remain in the U.S., including commercial merchandise is:

$

0 0

Read the instructions on the back of this form. Space is provided to list all the items you must declare.

I HAVE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS FORM AND HAVE MADE A TRUTHFUL DECLARATION.

X Hákon Valur Magnússon Signature

02/26/2017

Date (month/day/year)

CBP Form 6059B (04/14)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is responsible for protecting the United States against the illegal importation of prohibited items. CBP officers have the authority to question you and to examine you and your personal property. If you are one of the travelers selected for an examination, you will be treated in a courteous, professional, and dignified manner. CBP Supervisors and Passenger Service Representatives are available to answer your questions. Comment cards are available to compliment or provide feedback.

Important Information U.S. Residents—declare all articles that you have acquired abroad and are bringing into the United States.

Visitors (Non-Residents)—Declare the value of all articles that will remain in the United States.

Declare all articles on this declaration form and show the value in U.S. dollars. For gifts, please indicate the retail value.

Duty—CBP officers will determine duty. U.S. residents are normally entitled to a duty-free exemption of $800 on items accompanying them. Visitors (non-residents) are normally entitled to an exemption of $100. Duty will be assessed at the current rate on the first $1,000 above the exemption.

Agricultural and Wildlife Products—To prevent the entry of dangerous agricultural pests and prohibited wildlife, the following are restricted: Fruits, vegetables, plants, plant products, soil, meat, meat products, birds, snails, and other live animals or animal products. Failure to declare such items to a Customs and Border Protection Officer/ Customs and Border Protection Agriculture Specialist/Fish and Wildlife Inspector can result in penalties and the items may be subject to seizure.

Controlled substances, obscene articles, and toxic substances are generally prohibited entry.

Deutsch

Die US-amerikanische Zollerklärung

Was ist das und warum muss ich dieses Formular ausfüllen?

Vor der Ankunft in den USA müssen Sie das Formular der US-Zoller­ klärung ausfüllen. Wenn Sie mit Ihrer Familie unterwegs sind, braucht nur das Familien­ober­haupt dieses Formular ausfüllen. Wenn Sie US-Boden betreten, übergeben Sie dieses Formular dem US-Zoll.

The transportation of currency or monetary instruments, regardless of the amount, is legal. However, if you bring in to or take out of the United States more than $10,000 (U.S. or foreign equivalent, or a combination of both), you are required by law to file a report on FinCEN 105 (formerly Customs Form 4790) with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Monetary instruments include coin, currency, travelers checks and bearer instruments such as personal or cashiers checks and stocks and bonds. If you have someone else carry the currency or monetary instrument for you, you must also file a report on FinCEN 105. Failure to file the required report or failure to report the total amount that you are carrying may lead to the seizure of all the currency or monetary instruments, and may subject you to civil penalties and/or criminal prosecution. SIGN ON THE OPPOSITE SIDE OF THIS FORM AFTER YOU HAVE READ THE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOVE AND MADE A TRUTHFUL DECLARATION.

Wenn Sie auf Ihrer Reise Obst mit sich führen, empfehlen wir Ihnen, dies vor oder während dem Flug in die USA zu entsorgen. Aber was geschieht, wenn Sie eine dieser Fragen mit Ja beantworten? Das ist nicht so schrecklich, wie Sie vielleicht denken, und Ehrlichkeit spart Ihnen eine Menge Ärger und eine mögliche Geldstrafe von bis zu 300$. Siehe Seite 86 für weitere Informationen zur Antwort JA.

Bitte verwenden Sie beim Ausfüllen dieses Formulars nur Großbuchstaben.

Falls Sie einen Fehler machen wird Ihnen unsere Crew ein neues CBP Description of Articles (List may continue on another CBP Form 6059B) Value Use Only Formular geben.

Jeder ankommende Reisende bzw. jedes verantwortliche Familienmitglied muss die folgenden Angaben machen (es ist pro Familie nur EINE schriftliche Erklärung erforderlich) 1.

Familienname, Vorname, Zweiter Vorname

2.

Geburtsdatum / Tag/Monat/Jahr

3.

Anzahl der mit Ihnen reisenden Familienmitglieder

4.

(a) Adresse/genaue Anschrift in den USA (Name des Hotels/Reiseziel) (b) Stadt CBP Form 6059B (04/14) (c) Staat

Total

PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT STATEMENT: An agency may not conduct or sponsor an information collection and a person is not required to respond to this information unless it displays a current valid OMB control number. The control number for this collection is 1651-0009. The estimated average time to complete this application is 4 minutes. Your response is mandatory. If you have any comments regarding the burden estimate you can write to U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office of Regulations and Rulings, 90 K Street, NE, 10th Floor, Washington, DC 20229.

Issue three 85

rm

s Declaration Fo

The U.S. Custom 5.

Pass ausgestellt von (Land)

6.

Passnummer

7.

Ständiger Wohnsitz (Land)

8.

Auf dieser Reise besuchte Länder vor Ihrer Ankunft in den USA

(c) Krakheitserreger, Zellkulturen, Schnecken: JA/NEIN

(d) Erde, oder waren Sie auf einem Bauernhof/

einer Ranch/ Weide: JA/NEIN 12. Ich war (wir waren) in unmittelbarer Nähe von

Vieh/ Nutztieren (z.B. Anfassen oder Umgang

damit): JA/NEIN

9. Fluggesellschaft/Flugnummer oder Name des Schiffes 10. Der Hauptanlass dieser Reise ist geschäftlich: JA/NEIN 11. Ich (wir) führen folgende Waren ein:

(a) Früchte, Pflanzen, Lebensmittel, Insekten: JA/NEIN

(b) Fleisch, Tiere, Tier- oder Wildprodukte: JA/NEIN

13.

Ich führe (wir führen) mehr als $US 10,000 in Bargeld oder Zahlungsmitteln oder den Gegenwert in anderen ausländischen Währungen mit (Siehe die Definition von Gegenstände zum persönlichen Gebrauch gelten): JA/NEIN

14. Ich führe (wir führen) kommerzielle Waren mit.

(Verkaufsware, Muster zur Werbung von

Aufträgen oder Artikel, die nicht als Gegenstände zum persönlichen Gebrauch gelten): JA/NEIN

15.

US-Bürger - der Gesamtwert aller Waren, einschließlich Handelswaren die ich/wir erworben habe(n) oder im Ausland erworben habe(n) (einschließlich Geschenke für andere, nicht aber Sendungen in die USA) und in die USA einführe(n) lautet: Betrag in US-$ Besucher - der Gesamtwert aller Artikel einschließlich Handelswaren, die in den USA verbleiben ist: $

Auf der Linie unterschreiben, um zu erklären, dass Sie eine wahrheitsgemäße Erklärung abgeben.

What happens if you say “Yes”?

Sometimes we just want to avoid trouble and think that saying NO to everything will make things easier. That’s not the case and in fact, it can even cause more problems, delays and even fines. Be truthful on your Customs Declaration form and all will be good. Worst case scenario they’ll confiscate your banana but we promise you can buy a new one once you’re out of the airport.

Yes to 11 (a), (b) or (c) Your customs officer will refer you to an agricultural specialist who will ask you additional questions and might ask to inspect your food items. In many cases, you’ll be allowed to take your food with you. This often depends on where you got the food and how it’s been processed. Fruits, vegetables and raw meats are usually confiscated. You can research ahead of time at canibringit.com which is a U.S. Government run site.

Yes to 11 (d) and/or no. 12: An agricultural specialist will ask to inspect the soil or clothes, shoes or luggage that has been in contact with livestock or farm soil to determine if they contain any dangerous organisms. If they find potentially dangerous substances they will disinfect your items before allowing you to bring them in. For bringing soil into the US, you need a permit.

Yes to no. 13 or 14: If you are carrying currency worth over $10,000 you will simply be given a special form to fill out for the Treasury Department.

For items intended for sale, you should have already filed a “formal entry” before embarking on your journey. You could do so “on the spot” but these matters are subject to many rules and regulations and can be complicated.

Français

Deutsch

Le formulaire de déclaration en douane américaine

Die US-amerikanische Zollerklärung

Que se passe-t-il si vous répondez « OUI » ?

Was passiert, wenn Sie JA sagen?

Certaines personnes semblent penser que répondre « non » à toutes les réponses leur évitera des ennuis. Ce n’est pas le cas et en fait, cela peut même vous causer plus de problèmes, des retards et des amendes. Dites la vérité sur votre formulaire de déclaration en douane et tout ira bien. Dans le pire des cas, ils confisqueront votre banane mais promis, vous pourrez en acheter une nouvelle à votre arrivée à l’aéroport.

Einige Leute nehmen an, dass sie keinerlei Ärger bekommen, wenn sie überall NEIN sagen.

Das ist nicht so. Tatsächlich kann dies sogar mehr Probleme, Verzögerungen und sogar Geldbußen verursachen. Seien Sie bei Ihrer Zollerklärung ehrlich, und alles wird gut. Im schlimmsten Fall konfisziert man Ihre Banane, aber wir versprechen Ihnen, dass Sie sich eine neue kaufen können, sobald Sie den Flughafen verlassen haben.

Oui aux questions 11 (a), (b) ou (c) Votre agent douanier vous dirigera vers un spécialiste agricole qui vous posera des questions supplémentaires et qui pourra inspecter vos fruits. Dans de nombreux cas, vous sera autorisé à garder votre nourriture. Cela dépend souvent de la provenance la nourriture et de la façon dont elle a été transformée. Les fruits, les légumes et la viande crue sont généralement confisqués. Vous pouvez faire des recherches avant de partir sur le site canibright.com qui est un site du gouvernement américain.

Oui aux questions 11 (d) et/ou 12 : Un spécialiste agricole inspectera la terre ou les vêtements, les chaussures ou les bagages qui ont été en contact avec du bétail ou le sol d’une ferme pour déterminer la présence d’organismes dangereux. S’il trouve des substances potentiellement dangereuses, il désinfectera vos objets avant de vous laisser les garder. Pour importer de la terre aux États-Unis, il vous faut un permis.

Oui aux questions 13 ou 14 : Si vous transportez des devises d’une valeur supérieure à 10 000 $, vous devrez simplement remplir un formulaire spécial pour le ministère des finances.

Pour les objets destinés à être vendus, vous devriez déjà avoir rempli un « formulaire d’entrée officielle » avant de prendre votre vol. Vous pouvez faire cela sur place mais ce genre de chose est soumis à de nombreuses règles et règlementations et peut être compliqué.

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Ja zu 11 (a), (b) oder (c) Ihr Zollbeamter wird Sie an einen Spezialisten für landwirtschaftliche Produkte weiterverweisen, der Ihnen zusätzliche Fragen stellen wird und evtl. darum bittet, Ihre Lebensmittel inspizieren zu dürfen. In vielen Fällen wird man Ihnen erlauben, Ihr Essen mitzunehmen. Oft hängt es davon ab, wo Sie die Lebensmittel erworben haben und wie sie verarbeitet wurden. Obst, Gemüse und rohes Fleisch werden in der Regel beschlagnahmt.

Sie können vor Abflug auf der Website der US-Regierung canibringit.com nachlesen, was erlaubt ist.

Ja bei 11 (d) und/oder Nr. 12: Ein Spezialist für landwirtschaftliche Produkte wird Sie darum bitten, die Erde oder die Kleidung, Schuhe oder das Gepäck inspizieren zu dürfen, welche(s) in Kontakt mit Tieren oder landwirtschaftlichem Boden war, um zu bestimmen, ob diese gefährliche Organismen enthalten. Wenn er potenziell gefährliche Stoffe findet, werden Ihre Gegenstände desinfiziert, bevor Sie die Erlaubnis erhalten, diese einzuführen. Für das Einführen von Erde in die USA benötigen Sie eine Genehmigung.

Ja bei Nr. 13 oder 14: Wenn Sie Bargeld im Wert von mehr als $10.000 mit sich führen, erhalten Sie einfach ein besonderes Formular, das Sie für das US Finanzministerium ausfüllen müssen.

Für Gegenstände, die für den Verkauf vorgesehen sind, sollten Sie bereits vor Ihrer Abreise eine „formelle Einfuhrgenehmigung“ einholen. Sie tun könnten dies auch „vor Ort“ erledigen, aber diese Vorgänge unterliegen vielen Regeln und können sehr kompliziert sein. v

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Icelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No. 1 Stop Issue three 87

New Destination

The young city of Tel Aviv This vibrant beach city is a modern, liberal haven amid a conservative, contentious region. Yet it manages to effortlessly combine its easy-going lifestyle with a fast-paced hightech industry, attracting both young Israelis and internationals looking to spend their afternoons in the sun while participating in ambitious start-ups. Regardless of how you spend your days, everyone in the city convenes at the countless cafés, bars and, clubs at night to enjoy the city’s youthful spirit.

Text: Cindy-Lou Dale photos: Cindy-Lou Dale and iStockphoto.com.

As the economic hub of Israel, a country with a higher concentration of tech start-ups than anywhere else in the world outside of Silicon Valley, Tel Aviv (and Herzliya, its close neighbor to the north) is home to many entrepreneurs and techies.

ALWAYS UP AND COMING With an abundance of students and a plethora of both young and established companies, the so-call­ ed “Silicon Wadi” is a hotbed for innovation. That’s not to say people in Tel Aviv don’t know how to have fun. In recent years, much attention has been given to the city’s nightlife. In fact, there are more bars than synagogues, God is a DJ, and everyone’s body is a temple. The city is less than an hour’s drive from both Jerusalem and Haifa and located in the center of Israel’s coastal region. With beautiful beaches, great nightlife, and some of the country’s best uni­­ versi­ties nearby, it is no surprise that one-third of the city’s residents are between the ages of 18-35. While the press creates a perception that Israel is all about conflict, there is so much more to Tel Aviv.

THE COFFEE BREAK The first thing to note about Israelis, es­pecially in Tel Aviv, is their love of break­­fast, lunch, and coffee breaks. You’ll find that before work, Israelis will fre­­ quent cafés for breakfast, leave work for lunch, and then take another break for coffee in the after­noon.

Old friends and new friends will spend their free time meeting up for coffee or a daytime meal at an out­­­ door café or coffee house. So, when you’re at a loss of what to do, do as the Israelis do and grab a coffee!

THE BEACH From April until October, the most obvious desti­­na­­ tion for Tel Aviv fun is the beach. The main beaches are all located in Merkaz Hair (the central district).

Gordon, Frischman, and Bugrashov beach­es are the most popular—and Tel Aviv is a very LGBT-friendly city—just north of Gordon Beach, you’ll find beaches favored by that community.

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WOW Power to the people

Photo: vblinov/ iStockphoto.com.

Issue three 89

New Destination

When you’re at the beach in Israel, expect everyone to be laid back, but not polite. A famous and common Israeli paddle tennis game, called Matkot, is a ser­­ious beach activity played by the water’s edge. The players are often obliv­­ ious to swimmers, sunbathers, and others walking by. At night, the beach is the perfect place to bring a few friends, a few beers and just relax. Don’t be surprised if most of the other nighttime beachgoers are Americans.

Unfortunately, wildlife in Tel Aviv is sparse, although you should be aware of the jellyfish season in late July. Still, it’s a good idea to get scuba certified in Tel Aviv so you can be ready for a sensational scuba experience in the southern beach city of Eilat.

BARS & CLUBS The main difference between the nightlife of Tel Aviv and many Western cities is timing! In Tel Aviv, things don’t tend to get going, especially in clubs, until late!

Usually, Israelis don’t leave the house before 10 PM, with bars getting busy from midnight, and some clubs filling up around 2 AM. Most bars in Tel Aviv stay open often until dawn, while some clubs continue into the morning daylight hours. While the drinking age in Israel is 18, many clubs and bars in Tel Aviv won’t serve or allow entry to people this young—with minimum ages varying a lot, sometimes as high as 25 (although in reality for tourists’ things are often more relaxed).

THE MARKETS Just like any other Middle Eastern city, a great place to waste an afternoon away is the “shuk” (market). Check out Shuk HaCarmel, Shuk Hapishpashim, Shuk Levinsky, or the more upscale Shuk Ha­ Namal for great farmers’ markets.

EXERCISE Want to fit in with the locals? Well, hit the gym! With bikinis and swim shorts a daily fashion fixture, people in Tel Aviv always prioritize fitness. The “tayelet” (the path next to the beach) is a popular place to run early in the morning or before sundown, and there’s a free outdoor gym with pull-

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WOW Power to the people

With a beautiful beach and great nightlife, it’s easy to get stuck in the city and not venture off to see the rest of the country. However, transportation is both accessible and cheap, and Israel is such a small country that you can see almost anything as a day trip.

up bars and other basic machines next to Gordon Beach. Check out CrossFit Tel Aviv, a popular gym for young ex-pats living in the city, or Holmes Place, a more tra­­ditional gym.

Good to know •

Wi-Fi: Almost every café in Tel Aviv has free Wi-Fi. Tel Aviv also provides 80 free public Wi-Fi hot spots throughout the city, with more on the way.

•

Israeli Attitude: Israeli people are known to swing between harsh and abrasive and warm and touchy.

Don’t be turned off! If someone in the market yells at you or you hear a taxi driver honking excessively, don’t take it personally. Similarly, don’t be weirded out by an older man winking at women or an older woman calling some boys cuties— they’re mostly harmless. The city is very safe, and most people turn out to be very warm and friendly. And don’t be surprised if someone who was kicking sand on your blanket at the beach ends up inviting you over for Friday night dinner!

•

LGBT Tel Aviv: Tel Aviv is very LGBT friendly. The annual gay parade in June brings thousands of visitors a year and the city lines the streets with colorful gay flags.

•

Israeli Street Food: Falafel, shawarma, sambousek, schnitzel and hummus eateries comprise the bulk of Israeli street food. Unlike many other countries’ street food, Israel’s street food is arguably its best cuisine. You cannot leave Tel Aviv without trying each of these foods at least once. For the yummiest hummus in town, check out the world-famous Abu Hassan hummus in Jaffa or Hummus Abu Dabi on King George. For some great late night spots, check out the 24-hour upscale Brasserie on Ibn Gvirol and have one of the best burgers in town or drop by Tony Vespa’s place near the Namal for some of the best pizza.

MUSIC Tel Aviv has a great music scene, with big name artists and DJs frequently passing through. You’ll see advertisements for these DJs around beaches and bars, but most commonly you’ll find out about them through word of mouth. Check out the Barby Club, Tel Aviv’s oldest music venue, for lesser-known bands.

MUSEUMS Also check out the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, the Design Museum in Holon and the Palmach Museum. Nearby, the recently renovated Israel Museum in Jerusalem attracts over a million visitors a year and is a must-see.

ENTERTAINMENT Tel Aviv is Israel’s hot spot for the freshest plays, musicals, movie screenings and stand-up comedy. A word of warning to expats, though, it’s all in Hebrew (unless it’s an American/UK film)! To get the most out of these typical Israeli events, you’ll have to pick up the local language.

EXCURSIONS With a beautiful beach and great nightlife, it’s easy to get stuck in the city and not venture off to see the rest of the country.

However, transportation is both accessible and cheap, and Israel is such a small country that you can see almost anything as a day trip. Try a weekend hike on Yam-leYam, hiking from the Sea of Galilee to the Mediterranean, or a trip down to Jeru­salem for Shabbat. It’ll make coming back to Tel Aviv that much more special! v

Fly with WOW air to Tel Aviv and get your Hebrew on. WOW air now offers cheap flights to Israel from the USA and Canada 3-4 times a week, all year round.

Curious about our new service to Tel Aviv? Go to wowair.com and find out more about our flight schedule and available connections.

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Issue three 91

Great finds

Antiquing in France If you like ferreting about at flea markets and antique shops and don’t shy away from digging into boxes under tables, then antiquing in France is for you.

Text and photos by Cyndi-Lou Dale

A stuffed antelope head stares blankly down a narrow corridor stacked to the ceiling with antiquities in a village “Brocante” (an upscale flea-market type set-up) in Echinghen (2½ hour drive north of Paris, in Pasde-Calais). A dozen or so Art Deco chandeliers hang from the ceiling; a trombone lamp sits beside a battered twenties cinema chair and next to that is a Napoleonic dresser in desperate need of waxing. All over France, you’ll find barns, small shops, fairs and vill­­age sales full of antiques—from old oak farm tables to church pews and farm tools to linen. This is antique shopp­­ing, French-style, and the chall­­­ enge is to know what to look at first.

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WOW Power to the people

All over France, you’ll find barns, small shops, fairs and vill­­age sales full of antiques—from old oak farm tables to church pews and farm tools to linen. This is antique shopp­­ing, French-style, and the chall­­­enge is to know what to look at first.

ASK THE EXPERTS Investing in a statement antique piece requires expert assurance, which is why I’m in Saint Omer—at Naninck and Lengaigne, an influential family-run antique dealer on Rue François Ringot, who specializes in 12th, 13th and 14th-century antiques. It’s run by Philippe and his son Jean-Luc Lengaigne. The ground floor of the shop consists of a number of rooms showcasing not only their impressive collection of antique furniture but also silverware, ceramics, tapestries and oils on canvas. On another floor, through some dark and dusty rooms and behind a large metal door on wheels is a hidden staircase leading to a re­­storation workshop where an upholsterer pain­ stakingly restores a 14th-century chair, re­spect­ing traditional methods. Elsewhere in the massive building are rooms filled with rolls of period fabric

popular now, try to spot the next big thing; natural pearls went up dramatically a few years ago, now it’s Mediterranean coral’s turn.”

“You need to time your visit to an antique market—this is vital. If you’re on the lookout for something like silver or china, don’t buy from the specialist stall as they’ll be more expensive; and buy off-peak to get a better deal—lights, lamps, fireguards in the summer and garden furniture in the winter. But for real bargains, it pays to head to the French coast, hunting out the Brocante’s and Vide-Grenier’s which is a cross between a community garage sale and a flea market.”

CHOOSE THE THINGS YOU’LL LOVE “Invest only in things you like and are happy to have in your home for years to come,” Mr. Lengaigne suggests. “Look for small, useful pieces with provenance such as Georgian and Regency desks—original untouched furniture that hasn’t been restored. Armoires are a good bet too. Many are given a shabby chic treatment where they are stripped back and whitewashed, but stronger, primary colors are now more fashionable, as is Art Deco. You can find some lovely clocks and tea sets and mid-century modern furniture too as their values are rising—but it has to be the real thing.”

HAGGLING WITH GRACE Meandering through an Emmaus (a charitable movement repre­­sented across France) I found myself in a veritable treas­­ ure trove of recycled second-hand goods—furniture, bric-abrac, long playing records, books and clothes, wedding dresses, cookers, fridges, electrical goods, French antiques and bicycles.

I even spotted a pair of false teeth. (www.emmaus-france.org) My brother once told me that buying antiques is all about what is available and what is accessible and outsmarting the seller. Should you have your eye on something special, remain blasé, and don’t look at the price. First, try to figure it out in your mind and think of a figure that you’d be prepared to pay.

For instance, if it turned out to cost €100 you’d buy it. If it were €150, you’d wait until payday. If it’s €300, you’ll walk away. Keep your poker face on, then, ask for their best price before you reveal your hand. To seal the deal get the seller to reduce the price before you start negotiations. Above all, have a laugh—If you can haggle with grace, you can halve the price.

RECYCLING AT ITS BEST

another with embellishments and ac­­­cessories to tszuj up drapes and upholstery.

Walking from room to room Mr. Lengaigne (Snr.) shares antiquing secrets. “Mirrors and glassware in French markets offer great value,” he says. “But avoid buying silver as it’s more expen­sive in France. Also, Wed­­gwood is a tourist trap: it’s out of fashion and over­­ priced. In France, drink­­ing glasses would only set you back €10 apiece. If you are buying glass for in­­vestment purposes, look for pre-war Lalique items, as this means they have been designed and overseen by René Lalique himself.”

I recall my brother’s words of advice at Antiquities Falik in Pont-de-Briques (near Boulogne). I was ogling a door-sized mirror, circa 1910, which has an Edwardian look and a Rococo top to it. Falik’s house a variety of goods and do the flea-mark­ et “Brocante” thing, yet keep to current industrial trends in everything from furniture to chandeliers (like the immense

Murano chandelier with touches of green, pink and yellow on display). But the mirror still held my attention—with its beveled glass edges and a few speckled spots, which is good as it shows it’s an original. The most important part of the mirror is where you see your face; if that’s damaged, it kills the value. I estimate the price around €500 and the seller asks €400. I walk away and return ten minutes later offering €350.

Antiquing introduces you to a diversity of objects – objects of authenticity and rarity; each piece with its backstory, a history that needs to be preserved and remembered. Buying antiques is recycling at its best.

Antiquing in France is an art. Speaking the language and knowing the local lifestyle helps when perusing the French countryside for antiques. Contact the local tourism board to arrange a specialist guide. In this instance, it was Saint-Omer www.tourisme-saintomer.com and Pas-de-Calais www.uk.pas-de-calais.com. v

SPOTTING THE NEXT BIG THING Mr. Lengaigne continues, suggesting that when buying antique jewelry, I should stick with big name jewelry designers and, should my budget allow, I should go for signed pieces by major designers like Cartier, Tiffany or Van Cleef & Arpels.

“Rather than being tempted by what’s

Spend less on flights and create great memories in France. Book cheap flights to Paris or Lyon from USA and Canada with WOW air and bring back that perfect souvenir.

WOW air offers cheap flights to Paris and Lyon, France from USA and Canada every day of the week all year round. Go to wowair.com for more information and booking.

Issue three 93

Way out West

Bristol in a weekend Not every city can claim to have the “X Factor” but Bristol can. Ranked in the top 10 of global cities by one travel guide series, Bristol’s also been given the accolade of best weekend destination in the UK. Here’s one insider’s guide to exploring the infinite possibilities of South West England’s buzzing metropolis

by Andrew Parsonage Photos: Courtesy of Destination Bristol

My first visit to Bristol was completely by chance. I’d come here for a job interview with absolutely no prior knowledge of the city, but it soon became apparent that there was something unique and immediately lika­­­ble about the place. That’s why, almost 20 years on, I’m still here.

A KALEIDOSCOPIC CITY Many visitors understandably head for nearby Bath giv­en its world heritage status but, for all that (and I may be slightly biased here), Bristol is the more diverse city.

Grungier, I’ll admit, and not always as postcard-pretty, still Bristol has soul and culture by the bucket load being a place that has much of what London offers albeit on a more intimate scale, and is very much its own city. A commercial center and strategic port for almost 1000 years, Bristol prospered through the ages although this wealth came at a human cost—several hundred years on, Bristol is still coming to terms with its slavetrade connections. The city also developed a rebellious nature —a hotbed of alternative thinking that, in time, pro­­vided the perfect conditions for the development of the creative, media and digital industries which have fueled Bristol’s hip reputation. In fact, such has been its increasing popularity there was little surprise when The Sunday Times recently voted Bristol, “best place to live in Britain.”

Bristol’s goingout scene presents endless opti­­ons from sundown into the small hours. For thea­ter, choose from a West End show at the Hippo­­drome, a production at Bristol Old Vic (UK’s long­­est continuouslyrunning theater), or a more inti­­ mate in-theround experience at the Old Market Assembly.

Photo: Destination-Bristol.

Photo: Destination-Bristol.

ON THE WATERFRONT Bristol’s geography means that a long weekend is enough to sample its best points without the need of a car. A good place to get your bearings is M Shed on the sout­­h­­ern flank of Bristol’s floating harbor. With pano­ramic views of the city, this converted dockside shed tells Bristol’s story through the lives of its people and interactive multi-media displays. A walk down the quayside brings you to another local landmark, the SS Great Britain. Brainchild of Isambard Kingdom Brunel—the Victorian engineer also associated with Bristol’s symbolic Clifton Suspension Bridge—the SS Great Britain was once the world’s largest ship and a forerunner of the great passenger liners. The ship was salva­­ged, returned to Bristol and fully restored to become an award-winning visitor attraction.

Near M Shed, you’ll discover another aspect to Bristol’s appeal. Wapping Wharf is a new devel­­op­­ment reviving a long-neglected harbor side area. Careful planning has seen space created for local independent retailers, becoming a magnet for foodies and coffee aficionados— not least through the Cargo development where quirky enterprises operate out of converted shipp­­ing containers. Bristol’s culinary reputation is well-deserved.

Home to one of the UK’s top 5 rest­­­­aurants (Michelinstarred Casamia), and the only Ivy Brass­­erie located outside London, Bristol’s eclectic eater­­ies equally celebrate the city’s multi­­­­­­­­­cultural heritage and trend for street food, all sup­­ported by a superb café scene.

Photo: M-Shed-Internal.

Photo: ss-Great-Britain.

Photo: Paul Box.

If you’d like to try out the local tipple, head for The Stable on Bristol’s Waterfront or King Street and the Welsh Back where people sip cider on the cobbled streets outside legendary jazz pub, The Old Duke, or nearby floating bar, The Apple.

For a slightly more refined experience, The Milk Thistle is the leader in the pack of Bristol’s prohibition-style cocktail bars where it pays to book in advance.

SHOP HARD, PARTY HARDER Catering to all tastes, it’s a similar story for shopp­ers.

Within a short distance of each other are Cabot Circus, combining major brand names and high-end stores, St Nicholas Market (a personal favorite) where independent

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WOW Power to the people

Photo: Paull Angharad.

Bristol If you’d like to try out the local tipple, head for The Stable on Bristol’s Waterfront or King Street and the Welsh Back where people sip cider on the cobbled streets outside legendary jazz pub, The Old Duke, or nearby floating bar, The Apple.

retailers and food outlets regularly spill onto nearby Corn Street, and Park Street, whose fashion shops, cafés and bars draw Bristol’s large student population.

Bristol is a city that knows how to have fun. Pick a weekend during spring or summer and you’ll almost certainly catch one of Bristol’s numerous festivals— St Paul’s Carnival (July 1st), The Harbour Festival (July 21st-23rd), and the Balloon Fiesta (August 10th-13th) are all major events. It’s also fitting that the birth city of world famous street artist, Banksy’s now hosts Europe’s largest free street art and graffiti festival. Upfest (July 29-31) sees the South Bristol suburbs of Bedminster and Southville become a huge outdoor gallery for international artists, attracting over 30,000 visitors.

AND OTHER SEA ADVENTURES FROM REYKJAVIK

“Trip of a lifetime” Reviewed June, 2016

Photo: Destination-Bristol.

CULTURE VULTURES AND NIGHT OWLS Bristol’s going-out scene presents endless opti­­ons from sundown into the small hours. For thea­ter, choose from a West End show at the Hippo­­drome, a production at Bristol Old Vic (UK’s long­­est continuously-running theater), or a more inti­­mate in-the-round experience at the Old Market Assembly. For a city with a deep musical history, music lovers should check out Bristol’s equally rich variety of venues that offer a stage to both major artists (Colston Hall, 02 Academy and Trinity Centre) or local/up-and-coming bands (The Fleece, Louis­­iana).

If you’d like to try out the local tipple, head for The Stable on Bristol’s Waterfront or King Street and the Welsh Back where people sip cider on the cobbled streets outside legendary jazz pub, The Old Duke, or nearby floating bar, The Apple. For a slightly more refined experience, The Milk Thistle is the leader in the pack of Bristol’s prohibition-style cocktail bars where it pays to book in advance. Alternatively, a 10-minute walk north from the center brings you to Peoples Republic of Stokes Croft—a fiercely independent district with numerous bars offering a jumping-off point for the music meccas of Lakota and Motion. It’s when you emerge bleary-eyed on Sunday morning that you’re convinced of the many possi­bilities to a weekend here.

It’s impossible to con­­dense Bristol’s myriad offering into the perfect itinerary, but hopefully, by now, you have the ess­­ence of what this city is all about. My single best piece of advice is simply to come here, let Bristol wash over you in its gently intoxicating way and see what happens. Like me, you might find yourself coming up for air twenty years later. v

We’re truly happy to have Bristol back on our schedule, and you should be too. Bristol is one good reason why they weren’t exaggerating when they decided to name this country Great Britain!

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Issue three 95

All in Montréal

A year of celebrations Summer is in the air and with it comes the promise of new discoveries and excitement. So why not discover Montréal, one of North America’s most inspiring cities on the planet?

MM3P17-010 • SOCIÉTÉ DU 375e • AFFICHE 24X36 • GRANDE TOURNÉE • INFO: FP/SM FORMAT FINAL: 24” X 36” • VERSION: FRANÇAISE • COULEUR: CMYK • LIVRAISON: TBC

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Téléchargez l’application 375MTL

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375mtl.com | #375MTL

375mtl.com | #375MTL

IMPRESSIONS OF EXPO67 Fifty years ago, when Montréal host­­ed Expo67, the “Universal and Inter­­natio­ nal World Exhibition,” the world sat up and took notice. In fact, no one could have predicted the huge impact Expo67 would have on Montréal, or in the province of Québec. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of this historic encounter, the official Expo67 programming welcomes visitors to relive the energy of the times through immersive exhibitions that shine the spotlight on music, film, fashion, art, photography, architecture and more.

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• EXPOSITIONS • ACTIVITÉS IMMERSIVES • OFFRES ET CONTENU EXCLUSIFS

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Programmation officielle du 375e

MIXING IT UP Montréal is a master at mixing up its historical and modern elements. And they’ve got another brilliant example of this with AURA, a spectacular new light show in Old Montréal’s NotreDame Basilica. This impressive show of light and sound, created by none other than Moment Factory (of the Sagrada Familia fame in Barcelona), highlights the stunning architecture and artworks of the crown jewel in Montréal’s religious heritage. Its mov­­ ing multimedia experience of light and music transports you into the sublime uni­­verse of the church’s interior. Not to be missed!

MM3P17-008 • SOCIÉTÉ DU 375e • AFFICHE 24X36 • EXPO 67 • INFO: FP/SM FORMAT FINAL: 24” X 36” • VERSION: FRANÇAISE • COULEUR: CMYK • LIVRAISON: TBC

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This year, especially, Montréal will be more colorful, actionpack­­­­ed and vibrant than ever. That’s because, in 2017, the city is cele­­­brat­­ ing a very special 375th “birthday” that spans the entire year. Montréal’s rich history stretches back thousands of years from its origin as a First Nations settlement, to a French col­ony and then a British stronghold.

Fast forward to the present, and Montré­al is now renowned as one of the most dynamic, innovative, cult­ ur­­al and creative metropoles in the world. Here’s a peek at how it will be celebrating its history, culture and, especially, its citizens during this very special milestone year.

2017-03-30 16:27

Experience the buzz of excitement, learn how this colossal event came to life and discover the lasting im­­ pression it left on both residents and visitors. 14 dynamic exhibitions highlight very specific aspects of Expo 67 in Montréal’s museums and streets for you to enjoy from April to October. A 2017 version of the iconic Expo passport will also be available, allowing you to collect virtual or physi­ cal stamps of the exhibitions you visit as well as take advantage of exclusive content and offers. In June, Montréal pays homage to Expo67 once again

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with La Balade pour la Paix, an OpenAir Museum at the heart of downtown.

This major art exhibition and walk for peace showcases 67 works of art from world-class Canadian and inter­­national artists reflecting the universal values of humanism, toler­ ance and openness that inspired the world fair. The walk was designed to promote messages of peace and to remind us of our need to live to­­gether in harmony—truly poignant for today’s times! In addition to com­­ memorating the 50th anniversary of Expo67 and Montréal’s 375th, this

outdoor exhibition marks Canada’s 150th and runs until October.

EVERY WEEK A FESTIVAL When people think of Montréal, words like warmth, joie de vivre and openness come to mind.

But how did the city get such a great repu­­ta­­tion—from its welcoming and friendly citizens throughout its vibrant and vivacious neighborhoods! Giving every­one a peek at the city’s deep sense of community is La Grande Tournée , presented by the renowned Cirque Éloize. For 19 weeks from May to September, each of Montréal’s 19 boroughs will be celebrating its unique history, places, merchants and artists. Every weekend, a neigh­ borhood park will be host to an array of activities, from street festivals to film screenings, music performances to treasure hunts, art exhibitions to picnics, gourmet events and much more. Get an authentic taste of Montréal life with these lively and local celebrations!

some of the world’s best street theater troupes from France, Spain, Australia, the United King­­dom, the Netherlands and Canada— including some 20 troupes from Québec—will be dazzling crowds with performances that range from minimalist to grandiose. The performances promise to delight and amaze us, make us laugh and even cry. Don’t miss this chance to watch Montréal’s sidewalks and streets become the stage for this magical happening, which features some 800 shows.

Your Ticket to

Adventure

A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT Deserving an honorable mention is the spectacular St. Lawrence River: it was, in fact, along the banks of this mighty body of water that Montréal began. This summer, the multimedia show Montréal AVUDO created by the Compagnia Finzi Pasca (which has produced such major events as Corteo, Rain, La Verità as well as the closing ceremonies of the Turin and Sochi Olympic Games) will celebrate the river’s historical and cultural significance to the city. Until September, spec­t­a­­ tors can enjoy one of 100 free performances of a magical multimedia masterwork port­­ raying the vibrancy of Montréal, its people, its history, its neigh­­ borhoods and the important ties that it has forged with the rest of the world.

TAKE IT OUTSIDE Make no doubt about it, when the warmer weather arrives, Montrealers like to take the fun outside. And this summer, for the month of July, the entire city becomes an open-air theater during À nous la rue, the biggest street theater event in North America. For the occasion,

MORE MUSIC Later in August, Montréal’s three major orchestras—the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal, the Orchestre Métropolitain and the McGill Symphony Orchestra—will be coming together to celebrate the city in music and song at the foot of the iconic Mount Royal. Montréal Symphonique will feature hundreds of musicians, well-loved pop artists and choir singers who promise to dazzle our eyes and ears and make our spirits soar during this magnificent show.

Innovative, creative, vibrant, daring, dynamic, fearless and fascinating: the list of qualities showcased by the line-up of events for Montréal’s 375th anniversary is long! But to really get a sense of all the fun going on, you’ll have to experience it yourself. Head on over to 375mtl. com, where you’ll find all the aforementioned activities and more, plus download the 375MTL app.

It’s a great way to learn all about everything that’s going on, and find out which activities fit best with your schedule. We can’t wait to see you here, enjoying all Montréal has to offer! v

Montréal is the place to be this summer. Hop on a purple plane to Canada soon, so you won’t miss out on the celebrations.

WOW air offers cheap flights to Montréal from Europe, up to seven times a week all year round. Join the WOW club and get all our deals directly to your inbox.

Tel. (+354) 580 9900 ice@mountaineers.is www.mountaineers.is

Issue three 97

Maryland, USA

A visit to Annapolis Known by locals as the “museum without walls,” Annapolis, Maryland, is the state capital and just minutes away from BWI Airport. Located at the confluence of the Severn River, and Spa and College Creeks as they pour into the Chesapeake Bay, Annapolis is the self-proclaimed Sailing Capital of the World.

by Judy Colbert Photos: iStockphoto.com

Annapolis offers excellent regio­­­ nal and international cuisine, archi­­tecture, politics, public art, the United States Naval Academy, gardens, boutique and mall shopping, boat shows, festivals, a lively performance and music scene, and history. And, every­­thing’s packed into an area that’s only about seven square miles.

GET AN EARLY START You can begin the morning on a pat­ri­­ otic note by having breakfast at Chick and Ruth’s on Main Street, where they sing the National Anthem every weekday morning at 8:30, and at 9:30 on weekends. You can also try a six-pound milkshake or a superb crab cake, and frequently catch sight of local and state politicians and other prominent figures. When owner Ted Levitt is on the premises (and that’s most of the time), call him over for a

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WOW Power to the people

Annapolis is home to an almost endless list of festivals that celebrate chocolate, a Light House GumboFest, Greeks, Italians, the Irish (complete with St. Patrick’s Parade), spring (with the Annapolis Oyster Roast & Sock Burning), chicken wings, films, books, Rockfish (the state fish), and the list continues.

demonstration of his skill with close-up magic.

Another breakfast (and lunch) favorite is Miss Shirley’s where the outrageous menu selections include coconut cream-stuffed French toast and the crab Benedict.

SAILING CAPITAL Most of the city’s activities and attractions are located around City Dock. It’s where you can watch yachts and other gorgeous (read expensive) boats slowly parading up and down Ego Alley. Sharplydressed midshipmen stroll the area around City Dock, and while they always look sharp, they’re spectacular in their crisp white summer uniforms.

Check the Alex Haley Memorial that notes the arrival of Haley’s ancestor, Kunta Kinte. Kinte was brought to Annapolis as a slave aboard the Lord Ligonier in 1767. But before you venture forth into the city’s history and attractions, stop by the Iron Rooster for their famous homemade pop-tart which just barely resembles the store-bought pastries of your childhood. On a hot day or any day, a scoop of Storm Brothers Ice Cream hits the spot.

A WALK THROUGH HISTORY Annapolis is a fairly walkable city, and one way to learn about its history is on a tour led by coloni­al-costumed guides. Another beloved and fascinating attraction is the United States Naval Academy (anyone 18 and older will need a government-issued photo ID or a passport for those who are not U.S. citizens). Stop by the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center for a map, souvenirs, or a guided tour (either walking or during the season, an open-air vehicle). You’ll see standard dorm rooms (Bancroft Hall is the largest dormitory in the world), Memorial Hall, a statue of Tecumseh, Herndon Monument, the Main Chapel and the Crypt of John Paul Jones. If you time it right, you can see the noon for­­mation of midshipmen. Try to fit into your sched­ule a visit to the USNA (United States Naval Academy’s muse­­um with its exquisite Rogers Col­­lection of antique scale model ships.

DINNER AND MUSIC Come evening, stop for dinner at Galway Bay that’s noted for its Irish menu and the absence of televisions in the pub and rest­­ aurant. Harry Browne’s offers elegant white table­­cloth dining, right across the street from the Maryland State House. Pusser’s Caribbean Grille, located ad­­jacent to the Annapolis Waterfront Hotel by Autograph, combines a relaxed atmosphere, Ego Alley water­front dining, and frequent live music.

Just steps from the waterfront door is the home of the schooners Woodwind and

Woodwind II (as seen in the movie Wedding Crashers), available seasonally for harbor and Chesapeake Bay tours.

Following that, check the calendar at Naptownmusic.us for a selection of live music at such venues as 1747 at Reynolds Tavern; 333 Coffeehouse; 49 West Coffeehouse, Winebar & Gallery; Annapolis Towne Center; and Armadillo’s.

Ram’s Head On Stage is known for showcasing local and national acts.

When it’s time to shop, remember this is a sailing area, so the clothing, home goods, and souvenirs tend to be on the nautical and dressy-casu­ al side.

THINGS TO BRING HOME

For more information, check the website or stop by the Annapolis and Anne Arundel County Visitors Center on West Street for a list of attractions and major events. www.visitannapolis.org

When it’s time to shop, remember this is a sailing area, so the clothing, home goods, and souvenirs tend to be on the Annapolis is a fairly walkable city, and one way to learn about its history is on a tour led by coloni­al-costumed guides. nautical and dressy-casu­al side. If you’re in town on the first Sunday of the month from May through early November, stop by the First Sunday Arts Festival where 130 plus local and regional artists sell their creations (jewelry, pottery, glass, clothing, handbags, wood-turnings, furniture, sculpture, photography, paintings and more). There’s also free concerts and entertainment, and food trucks and the West Street rest­­aurants will have dining options.

Annapolis is home to an almost endless list of festivals that celebrate chocolate, a Light House GumboFest, Greeks, Italians, the Irish (complete with St. Patrick’s Parade), spring (with the Annapolis Oyster Roast & Sock Burning), chicken wings, films, books, Rockfish (the state fish), and the list continues. v

When you fly to BWI Airport, you are getting so much more than just Washington D.C. Don’t forget to visit Annapolis and Baltimore too!

WOW air offers cheap flights to Washington, D.C., Annapolis and Baltimore through BWI Airport, every day of the week, all year round. Book your flight on wowair.com or through the WOW app!

LET’S TACO ‘BOUT IT

HY HEALT LOCAL OOD FAST F CHAIN

Mexican food that is a true fiesta for your taste buds!

We are at eight locations in the Reykjavik area and one in Akureyri: The N1 service stations at Hringbraut and Bíldshöfði. The shopping malls Kringlan and Smáralind and Akureyri center among other places.

Issue three 99

Creative city

The best of Chicago Chicago is a city filled with possibilities and no shortage of exciting, fun things to do. You can spend time in the Loop and visit some world-famous museums and cultural institutions or journey to surrounding neighborhoods to check out local stores and hangouts.

Here is our list of the top 10 things to do in Chicago.

Text and photos by Cindy-Lou Dale

1 GO UP For a stomach-dropping view of Chicago, take yourself up to the Observatory Tilt platform on the John Hancock Center—a moving platform that slowly tilts over the side of the building at a 30-degree angle.

2 GET HIGHER If you want to get even more altitude, head to the Willis Tower Skydeck. From 103 floors above the streets, visitors can see as far as 50 miles in all directions from the top of the iconic skyscraper. If you’re feeling brave, step out onto the Ledge—a glass cube suspended from the side of the building that will have you walking on air.

You don’t have to take a trip downtown to hang out in a world-class park. If you’re on the North Side, spend an afternoon amid the lagoons of Humboldt Park or fly a kite on Cricket Hill in Lincoln Park. The South Side offers ponds for fishing in Washington Park as well as the relaxing atmosphere of the Japanese-styled Osaka Gardens at Jackson Park.

per­­forming artists. Be sure to get a bite to eat at the on-site restaurant and stroll through their picturesque sculpture garden. Don’t forget to exit through the gift shop—it boasts one of the city’s best sel­­ections of offbeat tchotchkes.

6 LISTEN UP Housed in what used to be the city’s public library, the city-block-wide Chicago Cultural Center offers free classical con­­ certs Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays.

3 MEET THE MONKEYS Housing more than 1,200 animals, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the few re­­ main­­ing free zoos in the United States.

The 35-acre menagerie may seem small, but it packs in plenty of amazing sights, including the Kovler Lion House and the Regenstein Center for African Apes.

4 SUBMERGE Get a closer look at a shark, touch a sting­ray or take a selfie with Luna, the sea otter, at the Shedd Aquarium—a slice of tropical paradise in the middle of Chicago.

larg­est of its kind in the USA. Inside, there are 120,000 plants spread across 1.6 acres, including the popular Fern Room, with an indoor lagoon and waterfall. A popular rain-or-shine destination for na­­ture lovers, the conservatory holds sea­­ sonal flower shows as well as occasi­onal concerts and events.

9 GET PHYSICAL Whether you run, walk, blade or bike, the 18-mile-long Lakefront Trail is for you.

Stretching from Hollywood Avenue on the North Side to 71st Street on the south, the trail is a great way to experience Chicago’s lakefront.

10 STAY COOL

7 GET BACK TO NATURE You don’t have to take a trip downtown to hang out in a world-class park. If you’re on the North Side, spend an afternoon amid the lagoons of Humboldt Park or fly a kite on Cricket Hill in Lincoln Park.

The South Side offers ponds for fishing in Washington Park as well as the relaxing atmosphere of the Japanese-styled Osaka Gardens at Jackson Park.

8 FIND THAT FLOWER POWER Walk among ferns and flowers at the Garfield Park Conservatory, one of the

Experience one of the city’s finest winter traditions from November to March. Ice skating in Millennium Park offers one of the best views of the downtown skyline.

Admission is free with free skating lessons Friday through Sunday one hour before the rink opens.

Chicago is the city that gave the world the skyscraper—and its architectural, cultural and culinary ambition con­­­tin­­ ues to soar. After New York, this is the second biggest business, financial and cultural center in the USA. It’s also one of the country’s music capitals, with a proliferation of jazz, blues and gospel clubs. There is so much to discover in the Windy City; there’s just not enough time, so be sure to arrange a return visit. v

5 BE CULTURAL Housing one of the largest collections of modern art in the USA, the Museum of Contemporary Art also hosts major touring exhibits, film screenings and

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WOW Power to the people

We can’t wait to start our service to Chicago. Will you join us? Our first flight is on July 27!

WOW air now offers cheap flights to Chicago, IL. Go to wowair.com for information on available connections and booking.

Comleting the golden circle

Geothermal baths - Natural steam baths Local kitchen - Geothermal bakery Open daily

10:00 - 23:00 (Summer 09/06 - 20/08) 11:00 - 22:00 (Winter 21/08 - 08/06)

Issue three 101

Scottish shortstop

24-hours in Edinburgh Luxury brands, high street stores and beautiful boutiques, it’s all covered. Shopping in Edinburgh is a fantastic experience catering to all tastes, styles and budgets.

Text and photos: Cindy-Lou Dale

My centaur-type rickshaw transporter zipped through the traffic effortlessly, delivering me to a one-stop shopping experience on Thistle Street which quickly drained the color from my credit card. From Jimmy Choo’s found at Pam Jenkins glorious shoe boutique to Kakao by K—the cutest little shop filled with unique Scandinavian designs that don’t cost the earth and where browsing comes with a glass of bubbly.

Across the road, the 21st Century Kilts off­ers an alternative to trousers in fabrics rang­ing from leather, lime and purple denim, camouflage and pinstripe.

For a brilliant way to wind down a weekend in Edinburgh, try The Stand Comedy Club, found in the basement at 5 York Street.

For a brilliant way to wind down a weekend in Edinburgh, try The Stand Comedy Club, found in the basement at 5 York Street. They run live stand-up comedy shows every night and have historically hosted comedians like Billy Connolly and Frankie Boyle. Be on time as seating is limited. Haggis, neeps and tatties—Scotland’s signature dish—are on the dinner menu.

Edinburgh has a wonderfully vibrant independent shopping scene. As you explore its hidden closes and streets, you’re bound to find a host of off-the-beaten-tourist-track treasure troves loved by the locals. v

HIGH TEA AND HIGH CLASS A lunch stop at Edinburgh’s high-class chippy, L’Alba D’Oro on Henderson Row, is a must; and for a dreamy cream tea there’s Eteaket, a gorgeous little tea room on Frederick Street, that stocks a variety of truly addictive teas like toffee infused Rooibos Crème Caramel, sweet Gunpowder Deluxe, Spicy Chai and my personal favorite, Chocolate Abyss latte.

The rickshaw delivered me to my accom­modations for the night at 2 Cam­­ bridge Street—a high-ceilinged Victorian townhouse at the foot of Edinburgh Castle.

Tastefully dressed in period stripes and antique furniture, the house oozes style in its ruby walls, crystal chandeliers and framed photographs of various stiffly posing people.

A chic French influence runs throughout, especially in their two bedrooms, let out on a bed-and-(fabulous) breakfast basis.

WINDING DOWN

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For all there is to see and do in Edinburgh, visit edinburgh-inspiringcapital.com.

Spend time in Edinburgh and save your money on flights by booking cheap flights to Edinburgh from the USA and Canada with WOW air.

WOW air offers cheap flights to Edinburgh, Scotland from the USA and Canada four times a week all year round. Go to wowair.com for more information and booking.

RElax - enjoy - experience

- Welcome TO Mývatnssveit www.jardbodin.is · phone +354 464 4411 · info@jardbodin.is

Issue three 103

Fashion takes flight

The fashion districts of Brussels Practicality and innovation are the keywords associated with designs from Brussels; which are well rounded with a good dose of humor and an absolute respect for quality.

Text and photos by Cindy-Lou Dale

Whatever Belgian designers turn their artistic hands to—be it an ornament or a piece of furniture, under­­ gar­ments or ball gowns—it sells almost as quickly as it is made to discerning customers in the best stores around the world.

ESTABLISHMENTS AND ENTREPRENEURS Fashion shows, exhibitions and a cout­ure trail take visitors to the Rue Dansaert, the Saint-Jacques district, Le Sablon Square and Avenue Louise, where designer stores and vintage boutiques offer shop till you drop opp­­or­­tunities. From stylish well-esta­­­ blished labels to the up-and-coming flash New Kids on the Block, Brussels has cultivated a unique group of design­­ ers who can turn silk, cashmere or linen into exceptional limited edition items.

DANSAERT DISTRICT Ultra-cool, trendy and stylish, the Dansaert district attracts a lot of at­­ ten­­tion. The genius of this district’s de­­signers has made Brussels the avant-garde city it is today. Dansaert is the nerve center of creative design,

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WOW Power to the people

For more feminine access­­ories Lady Paname Boudoir is a must. As is a 3-D stroll in time, space and rhythm when you enter Arlequin’s, a monument to second-hand music.

where, some say, the course of European fashion was changed.

Constantly under the spotlight, this district has won the heart not only of the designers and leading fashion houses but the visiting fashion slaves too. From subtly stylish, to flashy, or sexy to romantic, nostalgic or timeless, every shape and style can be found here. Something that should not be overlooked either is the Usagexteme; some 600m² entirely dedicated to young designers and new trends in the French Community.

Nearby is the trendy Saint-Géry district, which has numerous lively cafes and the Brussels’ Canal, where you need to linger a while to take in the neoRenaissance architecture of the Halles Saint-Géry and the Eglise Sainte-Catherine.

SAINT-JACQUES Home to the Manneken-Pis, Brussels most famous landmark, is the Saint-Jacques district which could be best described as incredible, adorable, generous, lively and spontaneous. The comic strip walls fill the district with color, and the collectors and second-hand clothes dealers all get on well together, openly taunting one another for fun. There is a little of everything here—fashion to vintage, artistic to sophisticated gadgets to second-hand books, comic strips to music, all happily coexisting. Start off in the upper part of the district, with the “Fondation Jacque Brel,” located on the Place de la Vieille Halle aux Blés,

with its beautiful buildings. Be certain to take in Emery & Cie, the main shop of the Brussels’ designer who is single-handedly responsible for revolutionizing the world of interior decoration.

And don’t miss out on some of the completely whacky shops, such as Rosalie Pompon where you will find the quirkiest objects; or the mini boutique Art. As for clothing, diversity is the first of the many qualities in this part of town, which non­c­­halantly mixes style and tastes. A few resolutely “in” shops such as Prive Joke, or trendy ones such as Mr Ego, or the more sophisti­­­cated Putiikki, are found next to fabulous ethnic styles of Patricia Mouvet’s (Chez Alizari) cotton fabrics; or the fairytale children streetwear boutique, Pygmées. Fabulous second-hand cloth­­ing boutiques have a strong link to the area and include Bernard Gavilan, who speci­a­­lizes in 50s and 60s vintage clothes as well as Ramon & Valy, another vintage gem for those looking for great labels such as Courréges or Chanel.

Comic strips fans should head to Boulevard Anspach and Rue du Midi for the best albums and fun accessories. For more feminine access­­ ories Lady Paname Boudoir is a must. As is a 3-D stroll in time, space and rhythm when you enter Arlequin’s, a monument to second-hand music.

evocative of luxury, are here where opulence oozes from every brick.

THE SABLON Found in the affluent Marolles district is the Sablon—a square for lovers of antiques and works of art, ultra-chic shops, master chocolate makers and sidewalk cafes. Hunched in the shadows of the beautiful Eglise Notre-Dame du Sablon are antique dealers, divine restaurants, world renowned fashion designers, jewelers, gallery owners, and interior decor­­ators. On Sunday mornings, the square turns into an antique market.

IN THE CITY All great capitals have one: Paris has the Champs Elysées, London has Bond Street, New York has Fifth Avenue, but Brussels has two—Avenue Louise and Boulevard de Waterloo.

Avenue Louise has become the muse of fashion designers. Lined with grand townhouses, including ones designed by Victor Horta, the avenue is home to the likes of Natan Couture, Eduard Vermeulen, the fashion designer to the ladies of the Royal Court, as well as the famous designer Olivier Strelli and the Queen’s hairdresser, Roger. As you draw close, the Louise bottleneck, one of Brussels most attractive

shopping areas, Belgian’s new labels take over— Bellerose, Mer du Nord, Riverwoods and COD. Nearby is Boulevard de Waterloo which is lined with mansions; mansions which the biggest names in fashion have chosen to show their exclusive de­­ signs: Gucci and Giorgio Armani, Chanel and Dior, Gucci and Hermes, Yves Saint-Laurent, Versace, Salvatore Ferragamo and Ralph Lauren.

IXELLES In less time than it takes you to write down their names, you’ll move from the chic and very con­­­serva­­ tive ambiance of the royal quarter to the lively and rather warm ambiance of cultural Ixelles. Along the Chaussée d’Ixelles, your gaze will be drawn to the colorful stalls of Matangé where the fading elegance of the exciting and exotic Congolese district is a cheer­­ful detour which awakens your senses with aromas and bright colors. There are a vast number of stalls selling fruits and vegetables from Africa here, as well as African hairdressing and “waxing” salons, and textiles inspired by Javanese batik.

This delightful diversion leads to the heart of SaintBoniface, an Art Nouveau district where Bruss­­­­els design is embodied by the presence of Nina Meert, who claims to find the vitality of the resi­­dent artists and intellectuals an inspiration for her designs. v

GALERIES ROYALES SAINT-HUBERT The most prestigious covered passageway in Europe, the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, is a testament to elegance and grandeur beneath an Italian Renaissance glass roof. Luxury de­­ signer leather goods, interiors designers and jewelers with names that have always been

Beautiful Brussels awaits, and whatever your taste, you will be sure to find something you like. Be fashionable and hop on a WOW flight to Belgium this summer. .

WOW air now offers cheap flights to Brussels from USA, Canada and Iceland. Find your flight on wowair.com.

THE ICELANDIC

PENIS MUSEUM We

Dicks!

The Icelandic Phallological Museum is one of the most informative, humorous, and unusual museums in the world.

The world famous “Penis museum” in Reykjavik is the only museum in the world to contain a collection of phallic specimens belonging to all the various types of mammal found in a single country. The founder, Sigurður Hjartarson started the collection 40 years ago and made it first accessible to the public in 1997 with the opening of the museum.

The Icelandic Phallological Museum contains a collection of more than 220 penises and penile parts belonging to all the land and sea mammals that can be found in Iceland.

There is also a foreign section that holds more than forty examples and a folklore section that has some twenty pieces on display. All in all, more than 380 biological examples. In addition to the biological section of the museum, visitors can view a collection of about 350 artistic oddments and practical utensils related to the museum’s chosen theme.

The museum is in a 250 square meter location on the upper part of Reykjavik’s main shopping street, Laugavegur, only a 10 minutes walk from the city’s centre.

There is a souvenir corner with a small exclusive selection of things related to the museum’s theme.

Seeing is believing!

No pornography or offensive material in the museum.

Laugavegur 116 • 105 Reykjavík • Tel.: (+354) 561-6663 (+354) 690 3774• phallus@phallus.is • www.phallus.is Opening hours: Summer: Daily from10 am - 6 pm • Winter: Daily from 11 am -6 pm • Next to Hlemmur bus station Issue three 105

Romantic getaway

Amsterdam, a Dutch treat Saul Schwartz and his wife Fern celebrated their first wedding anniversary with a trip to the Netherlands, a country with about the same number of bikes as people (about 17 million). Here’s how they spent their time in this great city.

By Saul Schwartz of Alexandria, Virginia Photos: iStockphotos.com

Central Amsterdam is not huge, but the sites are spread out enough that public transportation is ess­ential. The above-ground tram system was easy to learn.

WALKING FREELY The Amsterdam free walking tour did not disappoint us. Starting in Dam Square, our native guide provided a wealth of information as we strolled together through the infamous red light district, passing by other sites in the city center.

The most imposing site on Dam Square, the 17th century Royal Palace (formerly the city hall) was worth a separate visit to gaze at the Golden Age of Amsterdam with its lavish furnishings from Louis Napoleon, period paintings, white mar­ ble floors and sculpted walls.

THE MUSEUM QUARTER With museums close together in the quart­er, it was easy for us to muse­­ um hop for one full day. Housed in a beauti­ful and recently renovated neo-Gothic neo-Renaissance building, the Rijks­museum’s vast collection is on par with the world’s great art museums. The English langu­­age tour was amazingly in­­ formative. With the largest col­­­lec­­tion of Van Gogh’s works, the Van Gogh Museum—through an audio tour and great signage—does a superb job to highlight his troubled life, his development as an artist through various art periods, as well as his rela­­­tionships with artist con­­tempor­­ aries. We also toured the Stedelijk Museum, a museum of modern art, contemporary art and design. Just outside the quarter, we took the obligatory photos by the huge I AMSTERDAM sign.

ICONIC CANALS Canals are a primary reason that Amsterdam is so picturesque and why it is often called the Venice of the North. On our canal cruise, we were given a good orientation of the city as we traveled below street level along

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WOW Power to the people

With the largest col­­­ lec­­tion of Van Gogh’s works, the Van Gogh Museum—through an audio tour and great signage—does a superb job to highlight his troubled life, his development as an artist through various art periods, as well as his rela­­­tionships with artist con­­tempor­­aries.

the canal belts and by the rivers. The beauty of the historic canals led to their placement on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2010.

HISTORY AND HERITAGE We spent one day focused on sites of our Jewish heritage. The Anne Frank House is a must see, and the English language signage and audio tour thoroughly explained the story of the family secret hiding space and the tragic plight of Amsterdam Jews during World War 2 (with about 100,000 killed). Three other museums tell the story of Jews in the

Netherlands between 1940 and 1945— the National Holocaust Memorial, the National Holocaust Museum and the Dutch Resistance Museum. One especially inspiring story explains how Dutch citizens smuggled hundreds of children into hiding when trams blocked the view of Nazi soldiers assembling Jewish families at the Hollandse Schouw­burg Theater across the street from where they would be deported to concentration camps. We also spent time touring the majestic 17th-century Portuguese Synagogue.

TULIPS, TULIPS EVERYWHERE We spent a ½ day at the Keukenhof tulip and flower gardens and bulb fields.

The world’s largest tulip fields feat­ure a dazzling kaleidoscope of colors in the spring. We meandered along well-mani­­­ cured paths and by ponds with about 600 kinds of tulips. As we climb­­ed up the Groningen windmill on the grounds, we saw fields of millions of tulips and other flowers stretching out over 80 acres of land.

We definitely recommend a romantic vacation to Amsterdam and the sur­­ rounding environs. Although there is plenty to see and do, the atmosphere is relaxed and the locals are friendly. And we were happy not to be hit by a bike! v

A LOCAL FAVOURITE FOR 17 YEARS

Amsterdam is a great destination for a romantic holiday. Get on a cheap flight to Amsterdam with WOW air and score some points with your spouse.

WOW air offers cheap flights to Amsterdam, every day of the week and sometimes two times a day, all year round.

You’ll find available connections to Amsterdam from all WOW air destinations in USA and Canada at wowair.com.

Experience tapas the Icelandic way, made with the freshest local ingredients in an energetic and vibrant atmosphere.

TAPASBARINN – A MUST TRY IN ICELAND

late night dining Our kitchen is open until 23:30 on weekdays and 01:00 on weekends

Tapasbarinn | Vesturgata 3B | 101 Reykjavík | Tel: 551 2344 | tapas.is

Issue three 107

Easy as 1-2-3 IS FOR ART DECO There are more than 800 art deco buildings in Miami such as the Lincoln Theater and Hotel Breakwater.

Enjoy a stroll on your own around SOBE discovering this cool architectural style or join an art deco walking tour.

A

IS FOR BEACHES There are more than 16 beaches in the Miami area for a fun day in the sun.

B

C

IS FOR COCKTAILS Try one of the many handcrafted cocktails at the very popular and lively Broken Shaker Bar at the hip Freehand Hotel & Hostel.

IS FOR THE DEZER COLLECTION: MIAMI AUTO MUSEUM See cars from the James Bond movies and some Batmobiles.

D

IS FOR EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK If you are into parks & recreation, you will find biking, hiking, canoeing and kayaking are popular here. Alligators are present in the area so proceed with caution.

E

F IS FOR THE FAENA DISTRICT Check out the fashionable hotel, dining, art and bazaar at the Faena District in Miami’s Mid-Beach.

F

G

IS FOR GOLF Tee off at more than a dozen golf courses such as the Doral in the Miami area.

the night away in SOBE, downtown Miami, Mary Brickell Village, Biscayne Bay or Coconut Grove.

O IS FOR OCEAN DRIVE Think Lummus Park, hotels, the art deco museum, South Beach (SOBE), nightlife, restaurants, bars and clubs.

O

IS FOR THE PEREZ ART MUSEUM MIAMI The outdoor sculpture garden here features large-scale works while the inside features modern and contemporary art. Enjoy water views from Verde Restaurant.

P

IS FOR QUIRKY You’ll find both quirky and quality items in the Miami Design District.

Check out the art galleries, luxury stores and farmer’s market held on Wednesday evenings.

Q

IS FOR ROOFTOP DINING AND DRINKS After you have soaked up the rays; head up to the rooftops for nighttime views of Miami at Juvia, the Mayfair Hotel, the Clevelander, Dream South Beach or Area 31 at Epic Hotel.

R

IS FOR STREET ART At Wynwood Walls, you can enjoy the outdoor public graffiti street art walls in this hip artsy neighborhood.

Best to view the art walls on a not too sunny day as the sun’s rays might get in the way of your art appreciation.

Cafes, restaurants, bars, juice joints and boutiques abound in Wynwood.

S

H IS FOR THE HERALD Keep up to date with daily and late breaking news at miamiherald.com.

H

I IS FOR ICE CREAM Keep cool with a scoop or two from Lulu’s, Azucar, Cream Parlor or Serendipity Creamery.

I

Photo: iStockphoto / vwalakte

The ABC’s for a trip to Miami

Whether you are on your way to Miami now or planning a future trip there; these essential tips will help you make the most out of your trip to the Magic City.

At Wynwood Walls, you can enjoy the outdoor public graffiti street art walls in this hip artsy neighborhood. Best to view the art walls on a not too sunny day as the sun’s rays might get in the way of your art appreciation.

WOW Power to the people

K IS FOR KEY WEST Relax and enjoy laid back island life 3.5 hours away by car. Check out Hemingway’s Home and Duval Street’s many bars and clubs. Don’t forget to try a piece of key lime pie.

K

L IS FOR LITTLE HAVANA Immerse yourself in Cuban cuisine, music and culture. Check out the art walk on Cultural Fridays on Calle Ocho.

L

by Caron R. Luteran Photos: iStockphoto.com

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J IS FOR JET SKIS Rent a jet ski and enjoy some water time out on the Atlantic Ocean.

J

IS FOR MUSEUMS Miami has museums that cater to the erotic, automotive, botanical, art deco, modern and contemporary art.

M

IS FOR NIGHTLIFE There’s no shortage of bars and clubs to enjoy Happy Hour at or dance

N

Photo: iStockphoto / sborisov

IS FOR TEMPERATURE Miami enjoys temperatures between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit from March to December. October is the wettest month.

T

IS FOR UNLIMITED A day pass on the buses in Miami costs only $5.65 and a week’s pass is $29.25. Rides on the Metromover are free.

U

Miami IS FOR VIZCAYA MUSEUMS AND GARDENS A visit to this villa with its European-like gardens and art collection in Coconut Grove is a must for architecture and design aficionados.

V

W IS FOR WOW AIR Let WOW air fly you to Miami for fun in the sun.

W

IS FOR XCITING Well, Xciting, Xceptional, Xhilarating and Xtra Special times that can be enjoyed in Miami.

X

Y IS FOR YOGA Attend a free yoga session at either the Mondrian in SOBE on Sunday morning or at Bayfront Park downtown on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. Feel free to do your own yoga session on the beach at sunrise or sunset, too. Namaste!

Y

Photo: iStockphoto / oneinchpunch

Photo: iStockphoto / rabbit75_lst

IS FOR ZOO MIAMI. Think turtles, tortoises, crocodiles, alligators, camels, hippopotamuses and many more animals. Fun for all ages!

Z

WOW air offers cheap flights to Miami, Florida, three times a week, all year round. Go to wowair.com for more information and booking.

Learn your ABC’s and hop on over to sunny Miami for sun, art and good food. Could life get any better?

@aurorareykjavik

AURORA REYKJAVÍK

@aurorareykjavik @aurorareykjavik

THE NORTHERN LIGHTS CENTER

EXPLORE

LEARN

DISCOVER

Can’t catch the Northern Lights?

Don’t worry, we have already done it for you Visit us and enjoy our multimedia exhibition

OPEN EVERY DAY FROM 09:00 - 21:00

Grandagarður 2 - 101 Reykjavík. Near the old harbour.

Tel: (+354) 780 4500 - www.aurorareykjavik.is

Issue three 109

In it for the long haul

Pittsburgh’s Great Allegheny Passage How to bike 334 miles on the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal paths from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C.? Krista Connor checked out this famous cycling route.

by Krista Connor Photos: Courtesy og Golden Triangle Bike and from iStockphoto.com / tupungato

If you’re a longtime cycling enthusiast or even a hesitant beginn­­er, consider biking the Great Allegheny Passage and C&O Canal trails for your next summer ad­­venture­—that’s approximately 334 miles of scenery, adventure and nature. Con­­veniently, the trailheads begin and end near two of WOW air’s USA destinations—Pitts­­ burgh, PA., and Washing­ton, D.C., so readers can easily fly into one city and out the other. Bike rentals are available in Pittsburgh with outfitter Golden Triangle Bike.

ON THE WAY Cyclists of all ages and reasonable fitness can easily ride the trail on their own without a guide. You will experience 334 miles of adventure between The Great Allegheny Passage (GAP) Trail which connects with Cumberland, MD., before hitting D.C. The recently-con­­ structed trail between Pittsburgh and Cumberland is approximately 150 miles and boasts some of the most beautiful sights on the trail in the Laurel High­­ lands. Historic sites, tunnels and the Continental Divide will guide your way on this portion of the trail. The C&O Canal Towpath between Cumberland and D.C. is 184 miles of dirt road and, pre-dating the Civil War, that passes historic tunnels, battlefields, historic structures and more.

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Take Connellsville, PA. for example, a onetime booming factory town which retains its quaint roots— historic buildings, churches, and resi­­ dences indicating its pro­­sperous past.

Rest­­aurants, shops, and other attractions encourage trail users to take a break and visit downtown Conn­­ ells­ville. Adirondack shelters at the north­­ ern end of the city make this a popu­lar overnight stop for riders.

THE UPS AND DOWNS Overall, the journey could take six to nine days or more, depending on riders’ preferences. The trails span three sta­tes—Pennsylvania, Maryland, West Virginia, and of course, D.C., and you’ll pass through four national parks: C&O Canal, Antietam Battlefield, Harpers Ferry and Rock Creek Park. Riders start at 761 feet in elevation, cross the Continental Divide at 2,932 feet and end at sea level.

GETTING YOUR ZZZZ Adventurers can either rough it and camp each evening or easily find accommodations. Every 10 or so miles cyclists will pedal into a town with bed and breakfasts and hotels, so there is very little pressure to rush along the trail and absolutely no danger of being lost or stranded. Booking all accom­­ modations in advance is recom­­mended by trail experts.Doz­­­ens of overnight options dot the trail, whether you want

In addition to bike rentals, Golden Triangle Bike offers custom and pack­age tours, too, which means you can let the experts do the arranging and re­­search while you focus on yourself.

to camp, stay in a hostel, hotel or B&B. One town, Shepherdstown, WV, is even home to a medieval-style European-themed hotel called Bavarian Inn. Dozens of dining options, from casual to upscale, are also available.

You’ll pass through more than ten historic towns during the bike ad­­ven­­ ture, which will give a good feel for the region’s industrial and entre­­pre­­ne­­ urial past. Take Connellsville, PA. for example, a one-time booming factory town which retains its quaint roots—historic buildings, churches, and resi­­­­dences indicating its prosperous past. Restaurants, shops, and other attractions encourage trail users to take a break and visit downtown Conn­­ ells­ville. Adirondack shelters at the north­­ern end of the city make this a popu­lar overnight stop for riders.

THE HOME OF ICELANDIC SEAFOOD AND LAMB APOTEK Kitchen+Bar is a casual-smart restaurant located in one of Reykjavíks most historical buildings.

We specialize in fresh seafood and local ingredients prepared with a modern twist.

APOTEK KITCHEN+BAR

Austurstræti 16

101 Reykjavík

apotek@apotekrestaurant.is

apotek.is

GOING FOR THE WHOLE PACKAGE In addition to bike rentals, Golden Triangle Bike offers custom and pack­age tours, too, which means you can let the experts do the arranging and re­­ search while you focus on yourself, your two tires and the path. Tours start at six days and are $585 per person which includes all food and lodging.

Six-day tours keep a fairly challenging pace at 43-65 miles a day (that’s five to eight hours of cycling each day). Seven or eight-day tours are available though, for slower rides, and of course, adventurers can ride the trail on their own with no schedule. Golden Triangle Bike offers to arrange luggage transfers from one hotel or campground to the next, along with one-way car rides back to Pittsburgh if necessary.

Prior to day one, fly into Pittsburg, PA. and give yourself plenty of time to prepare and explore the city, then set out fresh either with your friends, solo or with a guide. Over the next week or so, take in the sunshine, freedom and nature, and of course, end the trip with your WOW air flight at BWI Airport. v

The training wheels are off and we’re leaving for our first flight to Pittsburgh this June. You coming?

Go to wowair.com and find cheap flights to Pittsburgh from Europe. Don’t forget to make a WOW Stopover in Iceland on your way here at no additional airfare.

Issue three 111

WOW DESTINATIONS

You want more?

WOW! We’ve got so many destinations we don’t have room for articles about all of them.

WOW air now has over 30 destinations and will continue to add more as well as increase flight frequency to top destinations such as London, Paris and California. You can check out all our flight destinations and low fares at wowair.com.

ALICANTE

COPENHAGEN

FRANKFURT

Warm up by the Mediterranean Sea and taste the best of Spain.

The former capital of Iceland is still a favorite among Icelanders and now’s your chance to find out why.

Frankfurt am Main, aka “Mainhattan” is Germany’s most cosmopolitan city but that doesn’t mean history isn’t appreciated there. When you visit Frankfurt don’t miss out on the Mosel Valley for a taste of Germany’s best wines. Prost!

WOW air now offers cheap flights* to Alicante from Iceland, with available connections from USA and Canada, up to four times a week until the end of October 2017.

WOW air offers daily flights* to Copenhagen, Denmark from USA, Canada and Iceland all year round. Two flights a day on Mondays and Fridays from June 1st until end of October.

BARCELONA Barcelona truly is the perfect destination; tasty tapas, seaside promenades and mind-blowing architecture.

GRAN CANARIA The city of Las Palmas in Gran Canaria is warm all year round so it’s a perfect destination for both the chilly and the chill.

Getting there is the easy part. WOW air offers 2-4 flights a week to Barcelona from Iceland, with available connections from USA and Canada, all year round, except in January and April.

BERLIN The capital of cool and quirky is one of our most popular destinations. With history on every corner, a nightlife scene that truly lives up to its name and great shopping for everyone, Berlin won’t let you down.

Hop onboard. WOW air offers cheap flights* to Berlin, Germany from USA, Canada and Iceland, every day of the week, all year round. Two flights a day on Tuesdays and Thursdays from June 1st until end of October.

WOW air offers cheap flights* to Frankfurt am Main from USA, Canada and Iceland, every day of the week, all year round.

WOW air offers weekly flights to Gran Canaria from Iceland until March.

CORK Ireland’s southern “capital” may be a wee bit smaller than Dublin but it offers picturesque charm and wonderfully welcoming locals. Cork is easy to navigate on foot and just 8 km outside the city you’ll find Blarney Castle, home of the Blarney Stone.

WOW air offers cheap flights* to Cork, Ireland from USA, Canada and Iceland, three to four times a week, all year round.

LONDON London has been on our schedule from the beginning and for good reason. This sprawling metropolis is a popular destination all over the world. It’s sort of like a rite of passage for travelers; you have to visit at least once. And if you’ve already been there you can go the other way from Gatwick airport and visit the beautiful Brighton.

WOW air now offers cheap flights* to London from USA, Canada and Iceland, twice a day, every day of the week, all year round.

DUBLIN Dublin has become a modern European city without losing the grip on its Irish roots and just a stone’s throw away is the spectacular Irish nature.

WOW air flies to Dublin, Ireland from USA, Canada and Iceland every day of the week, all year round. From June 1st to middle of October, WOW air will offer two flights to Dublin on Sundays and Wednesdays.

BOSTON

DÜSSELDORF

LOS ANGELES

The city that’s famous for Cheers and good shopping.

This great city on the Rhine is famous for its art and culture, luxury fashion and lifestyle.

WOW air offers cheap flights to Boston from Iceland all days of the week all year round.

Connecting flights* to Boston are available from most WOW destinations in Europe.

WOW air flies to Düsseldorf, Germany from Iceland, with available connections from USA and Canada, three times a week until the end of September.

The City of Angels, also known as L.A. is eclectic, progressive, trendy, laid-back and retro all at once. Great beaches, Rodeo Drive and famous people, need we say more?

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WOW Power to the people

WOW air offers cheap flights to Los Angeles, California every day of the week all year round.

THIS IS IT 2017 WELCOME

WHALE WATCHING • HÚSAVÍK • ICELAND

“Absolutely the best Whale watching experience in Iceland”

“Excellent Rib Boat Trip”

“Big whale speed boat - AMAZING”

LS ALS INA IGIN RIG OR EO TH THE “Fabulous tour, operated by fantastically enthusiastic staff”

“Great adventure with the rib. Seeing so much beautiful animals”

“Good sized boat with friendly crew”

“Fantastic experience, worth the time and money”

Akureyri

150 YEARS OF FAMILY HISTORY IN THE BAY

Húsavík

Reykjavík

Tel. +354 464 1500 • www.gentlegiants.is • info@gentlegiants.is HÚSAVÍK

Issue three 113

MEMBER OF ICEWHALE – THE ICELANDIC WHALE WATCHING ASSOCIATION

LYON Experience the gastronomic capital of France with all its history and vibrant cultural scene.

WOW air flies to Lyon four times a week* during the summer, with available connections from USA and Canada.

NEW YORK The most famous city in the world just got a little closer. The Big Apple is perfect for romantic getaways as well as family vacations filled with fun activities.

Get into a New York State of mind. WOW air now offers cheap flights to New York, New York, every day of the week, all year round.

SALZBURG Looking for that perfect winter destination?

European ski resorts are known for being budget friendly and the Austrian Alps’ best ski resorts are just a short drive from Salzburg Airport.

Pack your skis; WOW air flies to Salzburg from Iceland once a week from the end of December to the end of February 2018.

TORONTO This hip and happening city is a cultural melting pot where you’ll find world renowned restaurants, a vibrant nightlife and super friendly Canadians.

Check out Canada! WOW air offers cheap flights* to Toronto from Europe, several times a week, all year round.

WOW DESTINATIONS

SAN FRANCISCO San Francisco is the cultural, commercial and financial center of Northern California.

Well known for its liberal attitude and as the birth­­­place of the “hippie” counterculture, the Sexual Revolution and the Peace Movement, San Francisco is also home to one of the largest and oldest pride parades and the festivities are truly something to witness and be a part of.

Free your spirit! WOW air offers cheap flights to San Francisco every day of the week from April to the end of October and five times a week during the winter months.

STOCKHOLM The capital of Sweden is a city of contrasts, an urban paradise full of fun and history but with a relaxed and modern atmosphere.

WOW air now flies to Stockholm Arlanda airport, from USA, Canada and Iceland, offering four flights* a week, all year round.

TENERIFE Relaxing on a tropical island sounds like a dream and Tenerife is a dream come true.

WOW air offers two flights a week to Tenerife Sur from Iceland all year round.

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WOW Power to the people

WARSAW

WASHINGTON, D.C.

The capital of Poland has some historic charisma and is a great destination if you’re on a budget.

Are you ready for a monumental trip? Get acquainted with the history of the United States of America and enjoy this great capital.

WOW air offers flights to Warsaw from Iceland, with available connections from USA and Canada, two times a week from June 2017.

WOW air offers cheap flights* to Washington, D.C. from Europe, every day of the week, all year round.

The WOW Stopover When flying between North America and Europe take ­advantage of our WOW ­Stopover option.

The WOW Stopover allows you to visit Iceland at no additional airfare. It’s kind of like getting two vacations for the price of one.

Find out more at wowair.com

* Note that the availability of connecting flights between USA and Europe may vary depending on the flight frequency to each city.

WOW air connects London, Bristol, Edinburgh, Dublin, Cork, Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frankfurt, Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, Lyon, Stockholm, Alicante, Barcelona, Milan, and Warsaw to New York, Boston, Chicago, Washington, D.C., Pittsburgh, Miami, Los Angeles and San Francisco in the US and Toronto and Montréal in Canada.

THIS AND THAT …

MOSTLY THIS

by Eygló Árnadóttir

Brenyolver Gin

Photo: Bernhard Richter

Icelandic nature—respect it and fear it When Mother Nature created Iceland, she was in a mood.

Gett­­ing killed is an actual threat when traveling in the spectacular, yet brutal, Icelandic wilderness.

The natural forces should be respected and feared, as this is not the place for recklessness.

Whether you are traveling on foot or by a vehicle, on your own or with an organized group— explore safely. Educate yourself on how to stay safe, follow every safety warning and listen to your guide (Icelanders are a relatively laid back bunch, so when they shout danger they mean it).

Although your trip’s backdrop is fascinating, the perfect Instagram travel picture is not worth your life.

The ever-changing weather makes it vital to check the weat­ her forecast regularly, and when driving, you always need to know the road status. For information on road conditions and weather, call 1777 (or +354 522 1100); open 8-16 in summer and 6:30-22 in winter. For an English answering machine with similar information, call 1778. In an emergency call 112. To press one button in an emergency while sending your location by text, download the

“112 Iceland” app to your phone.

Before venturing into the wilderness without professional guidance, it’s advisable to leave your travel plan with our heroes and heroines at ICE-SAR—the Icelandic Search and Rescue teams. It can be done through the 112 app or at www.safetravel. is. In case something happens on your trip, thousands of highly trained volunteers will then have the necessary information to start a search or rescue.

Late night swimming

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WOW Power to the people

Cyclists to the rescue!

www.safetravel.is

Summertime in Árbæjarlaug Pool. Photo: Ragnar Th. Sigurdsson.

You shouldn‘t visit Reykjavík without dipping into at least one of the many geothermal swimming pools around the city. Magic rises in a steaming hot pool on a cold, dark winter day.

During the summer pools fill up with locals. After long winter months, Icelanders are desperate to get the most out of summer as possible. Bedtime routines go out the window, since not a minute of the bright summer nights can be wasted. In the past, pools usually opened early in the morning and didn’t accommodate those preferring the late

There are more Icelandic treats than candy.

Breny­­olver Gin is a new premium gin based on a classic gin tradition combined with handpicked Icelandic herbs. Brenyolver’s powerful and unique flavor comes from arctic thyme and angelica seeds, along with the predominant juniper berries.

Brenyolver is sweeter and smoother than traditional gin. The floral notes are brought to life when served neat, but it is also ideal for traditional gin cocktails such as Tom Collins and G&T. Brenyolver is a small batch production, and every batch is different as the ingredients are subjected to changes in weather and season.

The gin is named after Brenyolver, a tour guide on a great expedition through Iceland in 1874, led

by Lord William Watts. Lord William was an explorer that visited Iceland several times and wrote about the vastness of Icelandic nature; describing terrain, strata, animals, plants, people and culture in his book Snioland.

evening. After being handed a signed petition, Reykjavík City finally decided to keep a few pools open longer on weekends. Laugardalslaug is probably the most popular pool in the city, located near midtown. Vesturbæjarlaug is on the west side of the city and Breiðholtslaug on the east side. In the summer, these three pools close at 20:00 on Friday nights, and 22:00 on Saturdays and Sundays.

Have a date in Reykjavík? Forget dinner and a show, try dinner and a dip instead.

WOW Cyclothon is the longest road race in Iceland, with one of the largest number of participants. Held annually in June, the WOW Cyclothon takes riders 1358 km around Iceland in a maximum of 72 hours. The race combines majestic nature, unity, persistence and teamwork in an amazing way. Through pledges, the WOW Cyclothon also raises funds for a different charity each year. This year, that charity is Landsbjörg—an independent orga­­nization that has an extensive role doing rescue work in Iceland. Thousands of volunteers dedicate themselves to work for Landsbjörg’s rescue teams, accident prevention divisions and youth sections. Their joint mission is to prevent accidents and save lives and valuables. To fulfill that role, groups of volunteers are always available—night and day, year round. Search and rescue by bicycles is a growing thing, so what could be more appropriate than a cyclothon supporting our amazing rescue teams?

Issue three 117

THIS AND THAT …

MOSTLY THIS

Photo: iStock / Nikolay Tsuguliev

Reykjavík for the win According to a survey called “Dear Visitors,” it is, in fact, the swimming pools that foreign guests like the most in Reykjavík. In 2016 passengers leaving Keflavik International Airport were questioned about their stay in the capital and asked to rate various aspects of their visit. Pools rated the highest, with a score of 8.6 out of 10. The city’s restaurants scored 8 and the shops 7, although those who had purchased Icelandic design rated their product at 7.8 on average. One-third of the participants had visited a museum or

an exhibit in the city and on aver­­age rated those at 7.8. Organized day tours out of the city scored higher, at 8.5 with the onethird that had taken such a tour.

Last year, 80% of the 1.8 million guests who visited Iceland, spent a few nights in Reykjavík. Visitors seemed to enjoy the capital, as approx. 90% of the survey’s participants gave it a good or great review. Although the number of foreign visitors has more than doubled in a few years, it doesn’t seem to affect guests’ experience since the scores are similar throughout that period. A whopping 96% of the participants said they would recommend Reykjavík City to their family and friends. We look forward to welcoming them as well.

Seljavallalaug swimming pool. Photo: iStock / Nouk

6-INCH

SUB OF THE DAY ONLY 629 ISK DIFFERENT FLAVOR EVERY DAY!

Clean and green makes a perfect scene Many natural sightseeing spots in Iceland suffer from guests’ littering – which is both heartbreaking and perplexing, since the unspoiled nature is probably the country’s main attraction. Many of the hot tourist spots in Iceland aren’t officially run by anyone. They are free of charge to visit, meaning there is no staff to clean up after guests. Preserved geothermal pool Seljavallalaug is a good example. Built in 1923, it is Iceland’s oldest swimming pool still standing. No one owns the place, so the pool and the old primitive changing rooms are not cleaned on a regular basis (only occasionally by volunteers). Being “abandoned” gives the pool it’s charm and attracts hundreds of guests each day.

Sadly, this popularity comes with an unnecessary cost – trash all over.

Another thing to note is the lack of bathroom facilities on long parts of the Ring road (Iceland’s main highway). When travelling through remote areas – be prepared and make use of every public restroom you come upon, since you never know how far it’s going to be to the next one. And if nature calls when a toilet is nowhere to be found, be so kind as to answer that call in nature and not on a local’s yard or driveway (which has actually become a problem following the increased number of tourists). Ideally, bring a shovel and bury that s***.

Thank you for respecting and caring for our surroundings.

Correction from last issue

23 LOCATIONS IN ICELAND

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WOW Power to the people

In our last issue we wrongly credited this amazing photo of health guru and Yogafood Café owner Þorbjörg Hafsteinsdóttir.

This photo was taken by renowned photographer Ragnheiður Arngrímsdóttir who’s great eye and skill when it comes to portrets and Icelandic landscape can be further explored on her website: ragnheidur. photoshelter.com. We sincerely apologize for this mistake.

THIS AND THAT …

MOSTLY THIS

by Eygló Árnadóttir

ICELANDIC SEAFOOD makes world’s best sushi

Heartstone is a must see Icelandic wave of cinematic suc­­ cess continues with Heartstone, the groundbreaking feature deb­ut of director Guðmundur Arnar Guð­­ mundsson. The film has captured the hearts of Icelanders, with local critics calling it one of the best Icelandic movies to date. Heart­­ stone has been a worldwide festival sensa­­tion, gathering 30 international awards since its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival last year. Additionally, it triumphed at the annual Icelandic Film & TV Awards with nine awards in all major categories.

The title describes the essence of the film; an emotionally warm story set in the rough surroundings of Iceland, a natural environment full of contrast—where the sun shines for the longest time in the summer and the shortest time in the winter.

It tells a story about two teenage boys in a remote fishing village and their turbulent summer, as one tries to win the heart of a girl while the other discovers new feelings toward his best friend. The film analyzes the

Taste of Iceland Newly published cookbook Taste of Iceland is a culinary journey to the pure, fresh and sustainable Icelandic cuisine. The book is written by Úlfar Finn­­­björnsson who is often nicknamed the Wild Chef due to his passion for hunt­­ing and the offerings of Iceland’s nature. It is in fact what led him to his cul­­inary studies to begin with, and now he is renowned in Iceland, especially for his take on wild game. In Úlfar’s mind, one of the most important things about being a good chef is utilizing all the high-quality materials in his

acceptance of homosexual feelings and passions while exploring how nature and people can be both amazingly beautiful and incredibly cruel.

Along with five other exceptional Icelandic films, Bíó Paradís will feature Heartstone with English subtitles this summer. The cinema, located in the heart of downtown Reykjavík is at Hverfisgata 54. Find out more about their “Cool Cuts” screenings at www.bioparadis.is.

The best of Icelandic produce with a nod to Japan and South America.

Modern Icelandic flavours, share plates and award winning cocktails.

SOCIALIZE WITH THE LOCALS

Guðmundur Arnar Guðmundsson, Film director.

sur­­roundings—and in Iceland, they are abundant.

Taste of Iceland will give its readers insight into Icelandic home cooking with a gourmet twist. The dishes are modern while always relying on the excellent sources of the traditional Icelandic food culture. Cod, shellfish, goose, lamb and wild game are key players in this superb introduction to Icelandic cuisine—along, of course, with a sweet finish, the Icelandic way. Taste of Iceland will, without a doubt, create awareness of the gastronomic riches we have on and around our icy, rocky and firebreathing island, and hopefully, unlock new ideas in the minds of its readers.

Our kitchen is open 17.00–23.00 sun.–thu.

17.00–24.00 fri.–sat.

Sushi Social Þingholtsstræti 5 • 101 Reykjavík Tel. 568 6600 • sushisocial.is

Issue three 119

THIS AND THAT …

MOSTLY THIS

by Eygló Árnadóttir

A sweet deal!

Icelanders generally have a sweet tooth (or as we say—are candy piglets). For a population of 330,000, the selection of locally made candy is pretty amazing. Outside of Iceland, it’s hard to come by Icelandic candy, which is a pity for visitors that have found some local sweets to die for. Therefore, website “Must see in Iceland” has launched a candy exchange program between locals and foreigners (or Icelanders living abroad). It all started when the website’s editor, Lilja Katrín Gunnarsdóttir, decided to help out an American fellow searching for an Icelandic brand of liquorish to surprise his wife with. Lilja sent him the candy, and instead of getting paid back, she asked for some tasty Boston candy in return. Win win! With others now making similar requests, Lilja is having a blast—although a bit worried about her health from all that candy eating.

Want to be a part of the candy exchange? Send an email to mustsee@mustsee.is. Decide on a fixed amount and discuss with Lilja any special candy requests (although most people want to be surprised). Then you select some delicacies from your homeland and head for the post office. Wait for your exotic candy in exchange, and finally enjoy! Who said international collaboration couldn’t be delicious?

Courtesy of Godfrey Hall

Hats off to you!

On a trip to Iceland a few years back, American travel journalist and photographer Godfrey Hall got himself a warm hat by Icelandic brand 66°North. The hat has become somewhat of a trademark on his photos taken all over the world, so losing his precious hat was understandably a bitter pill to swallow. Hall wanted to buy another hat of the same exact kind, only to discover 66°North doesn’t make them anymore. So he took matters into his own hands and placed a personal ad in an Icelandic newspaper, with

the hope that someone in Iceland still had that hat and was willing to part with it. Hall’s letter did not go unnoticed. A wife offered her husband’s hat; two children found one in their village store and informed him of that; one guy sent his old hat at no cost and the 66°North company had two hats custom made for Hall.

With his three new replacement hats, Hall will never have to worry about losing one again. Icelandic media—reuniting man and hat since 2017.

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Courtesy of WETLAND

Sheep farmer turns model When new Icelandic design brand, WETLAND, needed a model to showcase their new collection, the WETLAND team immediately thought of sheep farmer Heiða Guðný Ásgeirsdóttir. Not because Heiða was a working model in New York 20 years ago, but because of how well she fits in with WETLAND’s concept. The designer, Sigríður Sunneva, has always emphasized the importance of using only high-quality natural materials, and WETLAND produces handcrafted clothes and accessories out of soft Icelandic shearling. Farmer Heiða spends her days minding her animals and was tired, dirty and smelling like sheep when Sigríður Sunneva called her up, but she was absolutely up for some modeling.

Besides loving the gorgeous piece of clothing the designer gave her, Heiða felt honored to participate in a project that aims for sustainability by utilizing every part of the sheep. The team finds Heiða to be a great role model, being a strong independent woman, and welcomed the opportunity to showcase a model with big muscles, worker’s hands and thighs bruised from sheep horns.

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WETLAND’s first collection for presale is on www.indigogo.com.

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“Nice experience with Salka whale watching”

1o:oo

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WHAT’S GOING ON OVER HERE? Quite a lot actually, and if you know where to go you can live each night in Iceland like there’s a full blown festival going on.

By Eygló Árnadóttir Photos: From respective events or venues

WHAT: An Evening with Jono Duffy WHEN: June 2, 8, 15 and 22 / July 14, 20 and 28 WHERE: Tjarnarbíó

A movie lover’s paradise Located in the heart of downtown Reykjavík, Bíó Paradís is a nonprofit organization run

by Iceland’s professional filmmaking guilds. Screening the latest art house releases from all around the world as well as cult films and Icelandic films, it is Iceland’s first and only art house cinema. The theater provides a warm and cozy environment for film lovers of all kinds—both in its three-screen theater and its well-stocked bar.

Located in Hverfisgata 54, 101 Reykjavik.

Jono Duffy is one of Iceland’s most sought after entertainers. Since mov­­ ing to Iceland from Australia in 2015, he quickly made a name for himself as essential viewing for comedy audiences. This summer, he will bring regular one hour long shows to Tjarnar­bíó. An Evening with Jono Duffy is a bit like a mixture between a standup comedy night and a late night chat show. Each show will be a little bit different, complete with a cast of guest stars ranging from drag performers, celebrities (from the A, B, and C-lists), comedians, musicians and anyone else who owes this Aussie a favor.

Tickets are 2,500 ISK and available at midi.is

Heartstone is part of Bíó Paradís’ Cool Cuts.

Events in June and July WHAT: Happy Hour WHEN: Every day from 5 – 7 pm No need to explain; happy hour means the same in Iceland as everywhere else.

WHAT: Summer concerts series WHEN: Every other Thursday at 10 pm Every other Thursday this summer, Bíó Paradís hosts free concerts with up and coming local bands. There’ll be beer specials and a great summer live show experience! Check out the line-up at bioparadis.is.

WHAT: Cool Cuts WHEN: June-August Cool cuts feature six carefully selected Icelandic films that no one should miss; Hearthstone, I Remember You, Rams, Heima – Sigurrós, Of Horses and Men and Jar City. Full of fun, excitement, wonders and excellent filmmaking, this is Icelandic cinema at its best.

WHAT: Friday night party screenings WHEN: Every Friday night at 8 pm This summer the Friday night screenings offer a selection of great nostalgic films, ranging from The Goonies to Pulp Fiction; from Hair to The Addams Family.

WHAT: Late night screenings WHEN: Selected Saturdays at 10 pm Carrie, Gremlins, Scream, Jaws… all the best horror films ever made, at the late Saturday night screenings.

WHAT: Peter Pan - National Theatre live WHEN: June 10, 11, 17 and 18 All children, except one, grow up… a recorded performance at the National Theatre of JM Barrie’s beloved tale. Sally Cookson directs this wondrously inventive production—a delight for children and adults alike.

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Photo: Ragnar Kjartansson World Light – The Life and Death of an Artist, 2015. Four channel video, total duration 20 hours, 45 minutes, 22 seconds.

Courtesy of the artist, Luhring Augustine, New York and i8 Gallery, Reykjavik. Commissioned by Thyssen-Bornemisza Art Contemporary, Vienna.

WHAT: God, I Feel So Bad WHEN: Monday-Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm / Thursdays: 10 am – 10 pm WHERE: Hafnarhús, Reykjavík Art Museum After a successful series of international appearances in recent years, in­­clud­­ ing major survey exhibitions on both sides of the Atlantic, Ragnar Kjartans­­son opens his first museum show in his homeland, Iceland. The exhibition reflects Ragnar’s ode to art in all its glory; to music, theater, film, literature and visual arts. This celebration manifests selected works, dating from 2004 to the present with a live endurance performance, large-scale video installations, photography, sculpture, painting and drawing. Many of the works have never before been exhibited in Iceland.

WHAT: Calm WHEN: Every day from 10 am to 5 pm WHERE: Kjarvalsstaðir, Reykjavík Art Museum “Calm” is a retrospective of the works of artist Louisa Matthíasdóttir, who was born in Reykjavík in 1917. Louisa studied in Copenhagen and Paris but spent most Louisa Matthíasdóttir, Lake Thingvellir, 1989, oil on canvas, 67x90 cm. of her life in the USA. The exhibition is a welcome opportunity to get an overview of the career of a female artist who has portrayed Icelandic landscape in a unique manner. There are also many paintings of urban life in Reykjavík, still life images, self-portraits and paintings of members of Louisa’s family. Louisa is known for her personal style, simple and powerful forms, whole and decisive color planes, and confident and vigorous writing. Her works contain a certain calmness and purity which reflects the artist herself.

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With his legendary concentration and 45 years of experience our Master Watchmaker and renowned craftsman, Gilbert O. Gudjonsson, inspects every single timepiece before it leaves our workshop.

All the watches are designed and assembled by hand in Iceland. Only highest quality movements and materials are used to produce the watches and every single detail has been given the time needed for perfection.

www.jswatch.com

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WHAT’S GOING ON OVER HERE?

WHAT: The xx present: Night + Day Iceland WHEN: July 14-16 WHERE: By Skógarfoss Waterfall, South Coast WHAT: Reykjavik Kabarett WHEN: Every Thursday in June at 10 pm WHERE: Rósenberg Reykjavík Reykjavik Kabarett is a group of talented artists focused on bringing their nightlife phenomenon and platform for burlesque to Reykjavik’s entertainment scene. At the core of the Reykjavik Kabarett family is Margrét Erla Maack aka.

Miss Mokki, and Lalli, the magician, often referred to as “mom and dad.” Then there’s Maísól, the burlesque clown, the hula hooping queen Unnur aka Miss Encircled, comedian/belly dancer Nadia and musician/bearded lady Margrét Arnar. During show nights, both local and foreign relatives join in as well as guests from the drag community Drag-Súgur and other underground theaters. u Founder/mom of this ensemble is Margrét Erla who teaches burlesque dancing and regularly performs at The Slipper Room in New York. “I realized I had more burlesque gigs in New York than in Reykjavík, where I actually live. Lalli and I had been talking about doing something for a loooong time... and when three burlesque friends wanted to visit in October last year, we decided it was time! After selling out completely, we decided to do this regularly. In June we’re going to perform weekly,” Margrét tells us.

Reykjavik Kabarett is a variety show; it’s a revue, burlesque and talent show where the humor is crude and jokes are visual. “We decided to call it Kabarett because Icelandic people are familiar with the musical/ film Cabaret, and that also entails that there’s no plot, it’s entertaining and it’s something you can’t bring your kids to see. Icelandic people are quite new to the word “burlesque,” and we spend a lot of time in interviews explaining that it is not simply stripping—we celebrate our bodies and how funny the naked body is but we mix a whole lot in with the burlesque, which always surprises people. For a dirty, degrading strip show, people can go somewhere else.

Two-thirds of our audience is female, which I find interesting. They say that it’s refreshing to see the female body as funny and ridiculous and not just sexy or vulnerable,” Margrét explains.

The recent popularity of cabaret and burlesque in Iceland is, as Margrét tells us “because now they exist and

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chime. With the rising popularity of drag, stand-up comedy and improv, we realized that the people of Reykjavik were excited for a comedy performance, rather than theater, where they can enjoy tongue in cheek jokes and basically just nonsense. The relatively new dating culture here also helps!”

A cabaret show is made up of lots of short bits and is easier than a long play, letting you enjoy cocktails at the

same time—an option at Rósenberg Reykjavík.

Reykjavik Kabarett is now putting together their best acts plus a lot of new ones. Rósenberg Reykjavik is a bigger venue and stage than they’ve performed on before, and Margrét promises crazier acts and more elaborate costumes. “There will be burlesque, comedy, skills, magic and lots of things that we’ll create as the shows progress. That’s also very important—doing acts for a live audience alters the act every time.

Every show is unique.”

To enjoy this fantastic show during your stay in Iceland, fear not, no knowledge of Icelandic is needed as 99% of the acts are visual. If you run into trouble, we can almost guarantee that there will be an Icelandic person sitting nearby, willing to translate the important stuff.

Curated by The xx, Night + Day is a festival that celebrates the band’s favorite places around the world through unique collaborations with local artists and communities. The xx will be bringing the latest in their highly acclaimed Night + Day series to Iceland this July, at Skógarfoss Waterfall ca. two hours east of Reykjavik. The first music festival ever at this breathtakingly beautiful location will be an intimate event as only 2,500 tickets are available. We recommend bringing good camping gear and appropriate clothes to this unique event.

Got to tix.is for more info and tickets.

For tickets go to tix.is

WHAT: Hengill Ultra Marathon WHEN: September 2 WHERE: Starting from Hveragerði, South The Hengill Ultra Marathon offers three Ultra Trail distances, 50 km, 80 km and 100 km in addition to more mod­erate routes of 24 km, 10 km and 5 km. Taking ultra-runners through open ranges and mountain rifts in the Hengill area, the Hengill Ultra Marathon is in collaboration with the Mont Blanc Rune (UTMB) giving participants in the 50km, 80 km and 100 km categories 2-4 points towards the world famous Mont Blanc Run. Keep on training, book your flights and sign up for this unique run in Sept­­ ember. We’ll see you there!

By Eyglรณ ร rnadรณttir Photos: From respective events or venues

Hey

look!

WHAT: Hengill Ultra Marathon WHEN: September 2 WHERE: Starting from Hveragerรฐi, South

For more information and registration go to www.hengillultra.is

Varma is dedicated to maintaining Icelandic tradition in developing, designing and manufacturing quality garments and accessories from the best Icelandic wool and sheepskin shearling.

www.arnartr.com

Varma is available in various tourist shops around Iceland

Issue three 125

June-July 2017

ARIES

LIBRA

You head to Iceland to see the Northern Lights. Tough luck it’s the middle of summer and they are nowhere to be seen.

But actually, great luck, since that midnight sun is awesome!

Your forecast depends on whether your birthday is an even number or an odd number. The odds will have a summer filled with romance, but the evens will be offered thrilling academic opportunities.

If you’re having trouble working out which you are—you should probably prepare for romance.

21 MARCH - 19 APRIL

TAURUS

20 APRIL - 20 MAY Love is in the air for Taurus and will stay there if you keep in mind this simple advice from the stars: Always ask about allergies before cooking your crush dinner.

GEMINI

21 MAY - 21 JUNE This week you will _____ and _____ but your _____ may not _____ if _____. Fill in the blanks yourself; the stars want you to take more control of your life.

CANCER

22 JUNE - 22 JULY Remember when your mom made you invite all the cool kids to your birthday party—even though you weren’t really cool and they never came? Well, now you are the coolest one. Throw that crazy birthday party and be sure to put a lot of pictures on social media.

LEO

23 JULY - 22 AUGUST You need more Virgos in your life. The stars are confident that some Virgo influence would dramatically improve your world.

VIRGO

23 AUGUST - 22 SEPTEMBER You know that hot guy in the next seat with the Leo necklace? Let him finish reading his magazine, then start a conversation and casually slip in that you’re a Virgo.

23 SEPTEMBER - 23 OCTOBER

SCORPIO

24 OCTOBER - 21 NOVEMBER Wow! You are looking great today!

Whether it’s your new contouring technique or your inner beauty shining like never before, expect head turns.

SAGITTARIUS

22 NOVEMBER - 21 DECEMBER The summer months are the perfect time for you to rethink your work situation.

Maybe you should even quit working altogether? Sure you’d be broke… but imagine all those extra sunbathing sessions!

CAPRICORN

22 DECEMBER - 19 JANUARY As you well know, you are not a Capricorn, although you feel like one at heart. A great month is in store for Capricorns, so the stars fully understand your desire to steal their forecast. And you’re welcome to it—just this once.

AQUARIUS

20 JANUARY - 18 FEBRUARY After a hectic winter, you truly need relaxation this summer. Whether it’s a yoga class, Netflix binging for a month or a holiday abroad—just get relaxed.

(Psst… the stars are thrilled about the holiday abroad decision.)

PISCES

19 FEBRUARY - 20 MARCH Prepare for a celebration of a lifetime!

And don’t even worry about being able to afford it. Don’t you just love when the stars give you a free pass?

Disclaimer: This horoscope is total and utter nonsence. Any accuracies, real or imagined by readers, are purely incidental.

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Issue three 127

WOW SUDOKU BUT HOW DO I DO IT?

REALLY, REALLY BORED? HERE ARE A FEW SUDOKUS TO MAKE TIME FLY.

The object is to insert the numbers in the boxes to satisfy only one condition: Each row, column and 3x3 box must contain the digits 1 through 9 exactly once. What could be simpler?

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WOW AIR PROMO CODE

WOWHORSES Laxnes Horse Farm is a family owned and operated horse farm offering daily tours since 1968. With a wide range of horses we specialize in short and long tours designed to introduce our customers to the amazing, gentle and one of a kind Icelandic horse. Additionally we offer a variety of combination tours letting you get the most out of your day in Iceland. We offer pickup service in Reykjavik and the farm’s easy to find location just outside Reykjavik makes joining our tours easy if you have a car.

“The best way to see Icelandic nature is from the back of a horse. Laxnes is our home and with our horses being part of the family our main goal has always been to combine well organized professionalism with a warm and friendly family atmosphere.”

Haukur Thorarinsson Manager

MUST SEE IN ICELAND

VOTED MUST SEE IN ICELAND 2017 ON MUSTSEE.IS

Book your tours in iceland with special promo code LAXNES on mustsee.is

Laxnes Horse Farm 271 Mosfellsbær Iceland Tel: +354 566 6179 info@laxnes.is

Visit us on www.laxnes.is.

Connect with us.

Follow, like and subcribe to #laxneshorsefarm on social media.

  

Issue three 129

THE TRAVELING INQUISITION

FIGHTING FOR MOTHER NATURE With his amazing photos, Icelandic photographer Kristján Ingi Einarsson captures the magnificent nature of his homeland. Easy access to the unspoiled wilderness is a privilege that Kristján Ingi considers his duty to share with the whole world.

by Eygló Árnadóttir Photos: Courtesy of Kristján Ingi Einarsson

“I hope to give a little back to the country that has given me so much and fostered me for decades. WOW air and WOW air’s guests are doing it, so why not me?”

Kristján Ingi got his first camera at the age of ten and hadn’t put one down since. Decades ago, he published photo books for children but because of his strong con­­­nection with his natural surroundings, since 2009, Kristján Ingi has only published photobooks dedi­­­cated to Icelandic nature. The first five books; The Essence of Iceland, Iceland so quiet, I was here, Nice­­land and Horses and Nature have all been well received, and are popular as travel souvenirs and gifts from Icelanders to foreign friends.

GIVING BACK His brand new book, Unique Iceland, goes even further than presenting the pure Icelandic nature to the rest of the world since 5% of the sales will go to Landvernd, a leading nature con­­­servation and environmental NGO in Iceland (see more on pages 22-23). “If humans are going to survive on Earth, we need to take much better care of it. Protecting the environment means everything to me. We need to fight against pollution and overexploitation, and I fight with my camera,” Kristján Ingi says. “By supporting this progressive organization, I hope to give a little back to the country that has given me so much and fostered me for decades. WOW air and WOW air’s guests are doing it, so why not me?” he adds, meaning the way WOW air supports Landvernd by offering passengers the chance to leave leftover currency on the plane as a donation to Landvernd, and then matches the amount each flight contributes. Kristján Ingi pleads with

Kristján Ingi got his first camera at the age of ten and hadn’t put one down since.

the public, and mostly the government, for more respect and a better under­­stand­­ing of the importance of environmental pro­­­tection. “Just look at Iceland,” he says, “where the sea offers fish, glacier rivers produce electricity and our heating com­ es from the ground. There is energy everywhere, and noth­ing except man can ruin it.”

NATURE BELONGS TO US ALL From his myriad travels across Iceland, Kristján Ingi has tens of thousands of beautiful photos. His favorite place to photo­­ graph is in the tranquil Highland, where nature is in its purest form. As a traveler, hiker and photographer, Kristján Ingi con­­ siders the unique Icelandic wilderness to be a blessing. “The purity, the colors, even the silence… These are not our private properties but valuables trusted to us. Icelandic nature also belongs to the rest of the world and to generations to come.

It is our duty to cherish and protect this inheritance,” he says, “and with my photos, I can share this blessing with others.” v

At his website www.kristjaningi.is you can check out Kristján Ingi’s photos and order his photo books.

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dress code iceland

w w w. c i n t a m a n i . i s cintamani_iceland cintamani.iceland cintamani.is

bankastræti

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aðalstræti

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austurhraun

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smáralind

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kringlan

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akureyri

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WOW Power to the people– Visit our stores: Skólavörðustígur & Kringlan, Reykjavík. Hafnarstræti, Akureyri. Geysir, Haukadalur. geysir.com –