Iceland review - 2012, Page 78

76 ICELAND REVIEW
sPECIAL PROmOTION
A New Dimension in Icelandic Cultural Life
Its distinctive facade designed by renowned artist Ólafur Elíasson, Henning Larsen
Architects and Batteríið Architects, Harpa was named one of the greatest concert
halls of the new millennium by Gramophone magazine and Best Performance venue
2011 by Travel&Leisure magazine. Harpa has already welcomed over 1.3 million guests
since its opening in May 2011, who have come to enjoy performances by celebrated
musicians and cultural icons, including Bryan Ferry, Tony Bennett, Björk and Yoko
Ono. In celebration of other senses, guests can feast on the culinary creations of
Harpa’s lively Munnharpan bistro and at Kolabrautin, the top floor, the à la carte res-
taurant and bar with stunning views. Harpa also houses the music store 12 Tónar and
Epal, which carries quality Nordic design and gift items. Guided tours of the building
are available daily from the information desk. Visit harpa.is for all upcoming events.
Sleep in Luxury
Just imagine sleeping under a warm, fluffy cloud. Eiderdown duvets give their owners
exactly that sensation. They provide excellent insulation and the exact warmth neces-
sary to sleep well, and are so lightweight that one only feels comfort.
Eiderdown comforter factory shop Dún og fidur has the finest quality eiderdown
duvets in Iceland. The duvets are handmade with 100 per cent downproof cotton and
the down is fully feather-free and washed.
The shop is located on Reykjavík’s main shopping street Laugavegur and offers a
wide variety of quality duvets and pillows, which can be purchased tax-free.
The eider duck is an Arctic bird that can be found in large numbers along the coast-
line of Iceland. The birds gather in colonies to nest. The female birds pluck their down
to insulate their nests to keep their eggs warm and cozy. Eider farmers do everything
in their capacity to attract the birds and keep away predators. Eider ducks have long
been a protected species in Iceland. dunogfidur.is.
The Viking Store
The Viking Store is situated in one of Reykjavík’s most famous old buildings, the Falcon
House in Hafnarstraeti. It carries quality outdoor clothing designed to protect you from
the harsh Icelandic climate, fine wool sweaters, gloves and hats, a range of souvenirs,
the most renowned Icelandic photo books and postcards.
The Viking Store is well situated in the center of Reykjavík and has another outlet
on the main street of Akureyri, the capital of the north. With friendly service and an
excellent selection of smart goods—no doubt just what you are looking for—you are
almost guaranteed not to leave empty handed.