Hostels in Iceland – accommodation for the world conscious traveler

I am always looking for experienced people from the Icelandic travel industry to interview. One of the most experienced people in the business is Sigríður Ólafsdóttir. She is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Senior Quality Auditor of Hostelling International (HI) in Iceland. Sigríður, or Sirra as she is called, runs three hostels in Reykjavik. She also runs the camping ground at Laugardalur in Reykjavik. HI has received recent accolades for quality and ecological friendliness.

Thank you, Sirra, for taking the time for an interview. Please tell me about yourself and the hostels in Iceland.

I have been part of HI Iceland dynamic management team for almost 20 years now. As the COO, my focus is on implementing our vision in the operations at the 3 hostels that we own and run. I work closely with the team, which enriches the guest experience. I understand how important it is to keep an open mind and to travel sustainably and responsibly. 

What motivates s and the work we do is the mission of Hostelling International. I think this is as relevant and urgent now as it was 80 years ago. This is when a group of ambitious students formed the Icelandic Youth Hostel Association.  

Loft Hostel was recently voted as the World’s Greenest Hostel and on top of the title ´The World’s Best Hostel´. 

How many hostels does HI run in Iceland, and where are they?

The 3 hostels in Reykjavik. HL Iceland owns and runs Loft Hostel, City Hostel, and Downtown Hostel. Other Hostels are privately owned and run by locals.

Can you tell me what kind of travelers use your hostels in Iceland?

One of the best things about hostelling is that you get to meet so many kinds of people from all over the world. This means you never know who you´re going to end up sharing a beer with.

I think this quote from a travel blogger sums up the hostelling experience rather nicely: ´with a hostel, you get to pay half the price for twice the fun´.

What are the advantages of staying in your hostels in Iceland?

Hostels open the door to new friends, amazing places, and different cultures.

Families, groups, and individuals all enjoy the informal atmosphere and the sense of being part of the culture. They can choose between different types of private rooms with or without a bathroom.

What are your favorite places or activities in Iceland?

The more I travel, the more I appreciate the wonderful adventures Iceland offers. I find myself in awe wherever I go, and I have started to appreciate the seasonal changes even more lately. I have to mention both Snæfellsnes and Þórsmörk as hiking places that keep me coming back for more. 

Do you have any plans for traveling in Iceland next summer?

Right now, I am excited to plan a trip around Australia, where my colleagues want me as a Quality Auditor for their Hostels. Amazing opportunity, and I will surely make sure to carbon offset that flight.  I am returning in time for my favorite season – the ever-so-bright and colorful springtime when Iceland is glowing. This summer, my bike and I will explore the city’s surroundings. My plan is to track on Strandir this summer. I recently discovered the wonders of Borgarfjörður and Dalasýsla and look forward to returning.  

What advice would you give to people who are visiting Iceland for the first time?

I wish you would take your time to take in the country’s unique contrasts and simplicity. Travel slowly and connect to local culture and cuisine.