Jonny Nicol shares his insight on doing business when visiting the Icelandic capital of Reykjavík
How do you get to Reykjavík? Is there a hub airport nearby, good road and rail connections?
Connections to Reykjavík are pretty good with Icelandair and WOW Air. Keflavík Airport is around 45 minutes from the city centre. The Flybus is probably the easiest and most reliable way to get into the city, and it operates every day in connection with incoming flights which means you’re rarely left waiting.
Is the city well-served by public transport and taxi services? Are there any interesting ways of getting around?
Iceland doesn’t have an internal rail system, so the only form of public transport is the bus, known as strætó. The city of Reykjavík is relatively small, however, so it’s also possible to rent a bike for the duration of your stay. It’s a great way to get around, while taking in the sights, finding your bearings and getting a sense of such a unique city.
Could you recommend any business hotels in Reykjavík?
The downtown area of Reykjavík is renowned for being the city’s commercial and cultural hub. It’s home to some of the city’s most vibrant bars, restaurants, and cafés which offer some of most exciting Nordic culinary experiences.
The 101 Hotel, an up-market boutique hotel, is a great place to stay, and there are excellent business meeting facilities available onsite. 101’s eclectic collection of Icelandic art work stands out against the hotel’s monochromatic palette, which makes it a unique location for meetings.
What accommodation options are there for those travelling on a shoestring?
The affordable Reykjavík Lights hotel can be found on the eastern side of Reykjavik’s downtown. The minimal and understated Scandinavian decor, and the hotel’s close proximity to Iceland’s largest outdoor thermal pool, just a 15-minute walk away, makes it a great value place to stay.
Could you suggest any shared working venues for business visitors or coffee shops where they could catch up on paperwork?
A little-known fact about Iceland is that it has boycotted Starbucks and McDonalds. Instead, visitors are treated to independent cafés, which are at the top of their game. The local coffee culture is impressive in its range, but Reykjavík Roasters is my go-to; it has a great atmosphere and, in my opinion, serves the best coffee. The little bakery Brauð & Co is another fantastic place, with temptations galore in the form of indulgent pastries.
With which industries is Reykjavík associated?
The Icelandic economy still depends heavily on the fishing industry, but it’s also recognised internationally as a leader in technological innovation.
What interesting businesses and organisations are based in Reykjavík?
In the 1960s, Icelandair introduced the Iceland stopover, where passengers flying over the Atlantic had the opportunity to stop in Iceland for no extra airfare.
Could you recommend a venue for a lunch meeting in Reykjavík?
Matur og Drykkur uses the best organic ingredients to create unique dishes inspired by traditional Icelandic home cooking, while its authentic interiors make it a unique setting for lunch meetings. I recommend ordering the Kleina, a traditional Icelandic desert of twisted doughnuts sprinkled in cinnamon.
And where would you suggest holding a client dinner?
I’d have to recommend Dill, which specialises in traditional Nordic cuisine. It’s always a standout dining experience and is the first restaurant in Iceland to be awarded a Michelin star. Saegreifinn (which translates to The Sea Baron) is another great option. It claims the ‘world’s best lobster soup’ and serves incredible seafood platters with an impressive selection of fresh fish caught off the coast of Reykjavík.
Where would you recommend for drinks with colleagues after a day of meetings in Reykjavík?
That depends on your tipple. Kaldi Bar, located in downtown Reykjavík, was the first microbrewery in Iceland. Its brews have made a name for themselves through being made using natural spring water sourced from the Sólarfjall mountain in the north of the country. For something stronger, head to Loftið, an old-school cocktail bar with a great selection of whiskeys.
Are there any challenging aspects or downsides to Reykjavík for business that should be taken into account?
Food and drink is notoriously expensive but the quality of what’s on offer is exceptionally high, so the extra cost is justifiable. Otherwise, Iceland is an incredibly hospitable country, and almost everyone speaks English fluently.
Tell us a bit about Reykjavík’s unmissable attractions.
Just outside Reykjavík, the Blue Lagoon is definitely worth visiting and the Stokkur Geyser is a must see. Watching it erupt over 15 meters in the air is a phenomenal sight to behold. As a small tip, follow the short path up the hill beside the Geyser to a lesser-known vantage point where you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views.
If you have time, head to Gullfoss Waterfall. Beneath the falls lies a breathtaking canyon, which is an ideal location for river rafting. It’s an unforgettable experience and you get a totally different perspective when taking in the landscape from the water.
Can you give some insider information about some hidden treasures outside the tourist haunts?
Reykjavík has earned an international reputation as a creative hub for American and Icelandic artists. The city has a host of contemporary art galleries on offer. One lesser-known exhibition space, Gallerí Bakarí, has hosted artists including Gotti Bernhöft, famous for his album cover art for one of Reykjavik’s biggest Sigur Rós.
Are there any unmissable activities business travellers should incorporate into their visit?
Mount Keilir, a volcano just 40 minutes from Reykivik, is a great starting point for novice hikers. The climb up the single track takes roughly two hours, and the view from the summit is remarkable.
Are there any local dishes that visitors should try?
Hákarl, or fermented shark, is one of Iceland’s national dishes and it’s worth trying while you’re there. It’s an acquired taste but it’s palatable if accompanied with a big hunk of locally made bread and washed down with glass of Iceland’s signature liquor, Brennivin, an unsweetened schnapps.
Why do you love Reykjavík?
Reykjavík is a city unlike anywhere else, steeped in history and fascinating culture, with the backdrop of some of the world’s most stunning scenery, from glaciers and waterfalls, to volcanoes and geysers. Add in the food, drink and hospitality and it truly is one a remarkable place to visit.
Why would you recommend Reykjavík as a place to do business?
Reykjavík seems to have found the perfect balance between innovation and culture, open-mindedness and tradition, and boasts a forward-thinking business community.
Jonny Nicol, Founder and CEO of Stratajet
Stratajet allows you to search, compare and book from the largest choice of private jets available for charter at the best prices, instantly.
