Akureyri Welcomes the 40th Vestnorden Travel Mart, Uniting the North
Last week Akureyri stepped into the spotlight, hosting the 40th Vestnorden Travel Mart across the Sports Hall and the Hof Cultural and Conference Center. The two venues hummed with meetings, plans, and the kind of purposeful energy that only a well-run industry gathering can produce.
Arnheiður Jóhannsdóttir, managing director of Visit North Iceland, put it plainly: “The air was thick with professionalism, innovation, and a sense of progress. Such a dynamic atmosphere was palpable, from the engaging tours organized before and after the event to the meaningful conversations held at meeting tables and during the familiarization trips hosted by our local tourism companies.
Participants departed with much more than just potential business connections; they returned home with a richer understanding of North Iceland—its remarkable landscapes, its resilient people, and the distinctive way of life that shapes our tourism sector. New friendships were formed, and fresh ideas took root in this fertile environment.
We owe a heartfelt thank you to NATA for choosing Akureyri and North Iceland as the venue for Vestnorden 2025. This event not only enhances our regional profile but also spotlights the town’s warm hospitality and exceptional organizational abilities.
This year’s gathering attracted over 550 participants eager to share their tourism services, explore new offerings, and plan journeys to the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands. Among them were 160 representatives from international travel agencies, alongside more than 30 companies from North Iceland, showcasing the strength, creativity, and collaborative spirit that define tourism in our region.
The dedicated team at Visit North Iceland was instrumental in the planning and execution of Vestnorden, working hand in hand with Business Iceland to ensure that every detail was meticulously addressed. Their commitment and ambition not only facilitated a smooth operation but also left an indelible mark on all who attended.”
