Meet in Reykjavík PR

ICELAND REVIEW 95 94 ICELAND REVIEW R eykjavík has what it takes to be among the top European des- tinations for meetings, incentives, conferences and events (MICE). With its modern infrastructure, good hotels, great food, vibrant cultural life and convenient location midway between the U.S. and Europe, it's the ideal place to meet in the middle. Who would have guessed there are more direct flights between North America and Reykjavík than from each of the other Nordic capital cities?" says Brynja Laxdal, Director of Marketing at Meet in Reyk- javík, the official Convention Bureau in Iceland. MICE SECtor In rapId Growth Meet in Reykjavík began operation in early 2012 and since then interest in Iceland as a conference, event and incentive destination has continued to grow and is becoming an important element of the city's economic growth. "The MICE sector in Iceland grew by 21 percent between 2012 and 2013 compared to a 6 percent an- nual global growth. Offering a service that is free of charge, Meet in Reykjavík connects foreign event planners to relevant Icelandic service providers. In addition to that, one of our challenges is to change our target group's perception of Iceland as a solely nature sive waterfalls, yellow sulfur mountains and active and extinct vol- canoes. Flying over the newest volcanic eruption in Holuhraun and Bárðarbunga volcano is a great addition on to one's life experience and is truly a moment that takes your breath away," says Brynja. Eco-friendly, Iceland produces its own hydro-electricity—and thanks to geothermal energy, it heats its homes, buildings and even outdoor swimming pools with a green and sustainable resource. As for the climate, the average temperature in midwinter is around 0°C (32°F). FrIEndly MEtropolItan CIty As a capital, Reykjavík is a metropolitan city, though with a local, friendly feel and easily-navigable on foot. The world's northernmost capital city offers a unique and stylish tone reflected in a vibrant art scene and avant-garde designs. Reykjavík is also a paradise for foodies, with fine cuisine and the freshest of Icelandic ingredients. The city boasts cutting-edge restaurants with a modern twist and you'll even find the prices favorable in comparison to other Nordic cities. Iceland was actually chosen one of the best-value destina- tions in Europe 2013 by Lonely Planet. Reykjavík has various meeting facilities. One of the most stunning venues is Harpa Concert and Conference Center. The building is a glistening piece of glass by the ocean that has won several interna- tional awards. Other unique locations are the Blue Lagoon, with its turquoise waters amidst blackened lava fields, and the pretty island of Viðey, just a ten-minute boat ride from downtown Reykjavík. Download the Meet in Reykjavík app for iOS and Android from: meetinreykjavik.is destination and explain the high tech infrastructure, good variety of venues, mild climate, great accessability and favorable exchange rate." When asked how Iceland differs from other MICE destinations, Brynja replies, "Our competitive advantage is the strategic location midway between the U.S., Canada and Europe, the rugged and unique nature just outside the city and the fact that Iceland is on a lot of people's bucket lists. People love to cultivate their curiosity and bring home stories about their experience and Iceland certainly has a lot of moments that can take your breath away." SoMEthInG For EvEryonE Iceland is an incentive planner's nirvana, as it has something for ev- eryone. Within a three hour driving distance you can enter the heart of an extinct volcanic magma chamber, visit a glacier, go whale watching, go horseback riding on a black beach or enjoy one of the best dive sites in the world, between two continents. Other popular geo-tour activities include driving in super jeeps into the highlands surrounded by magical landscape and contrasts of colors. "We are blessed with beautiful geothermal areas with wicked geysers, mas- Midway between North America and Europe, Iceland is a convenient and adventurous location for corporate events. Meet in reykjavík will help you with the planning. Conventions S p e c i a l p r o m o t i o n Conventions Harpa Concert and Conference Center. Blue Lagoon Hilton Reykjavík Nordica. Reykjavík Has WHat it takes S p e c i a l p r o m o t i o n

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