Photo: Ozzo
What is OK and what should you avoid? AECO’s new Community Specific Guidelines gives the answers to tourists who visit Reykjanesbær. It’s the ninth community guideline for Iceland based on local involvement.
– We are very happy about the collaboration with the local community. It is the foundation for successful visits for both visitors and the visited as it involves local knowledge and local ownership, says Frigg Jørgensen, Executive Director of AECO.
In November AECO facilitated a workshop that led to the newest addition to the Community Specific Guidelines for Iceland. It is the ninth of its kind developed through an initiative from the municipality of Reykjanes, harbor of Reykjanes and Visit Reykjanes. AECO helped with the method and elaboration.
An expanding community
– I believe that well executed community guidelines, along with an extensive consultation process, can provide a competitive advantage and stronger marketing position for Reykjanes harbor. It is the key factor that travelers, tourism operators and local people are well informed, says Gunnar Vidir Thrastarson, Project Manager of Marketing in Reykjanesbær.
The new guidelines describe Reykjanesbær as a young and dynamic community with an expanding population. It gives information about museums, other cultural experiences and where to find restaurants and interesting shops.
It also tells visitors how to handle trash and what to be aware of regarding the sensitive nature in the area.
“Together for sustainable growth”
– The work on the Community Guidelines has been informative and helped to define the experiences and expectations of the community when receiving cruise ship visitors. AECO’s initiative in these matters is exemplary and will definitely result in a positive impact for all stakeholders in the near future, says Halldor K. Hermannsson, Harbour Master.
– Only by working together can we ensure the sustainable growth, development, and promotion of our destination, while preserving its unique character and enhancing the visitor experience. The Community Guidelines and the work everyone involved has put into it is taking us one step forward in developing a successful destination for cruise tourism, says Thura Halldóra Aradóttir, Manager at Visit Reykjanes.
Download the Community Specific Guidelines for Reykjanesbær here:
Contacts:
Ilja Leo Lang, Community Engagement Specialist, AECO:
ilja@aeco.no
Gunnar Vidir Thrastarson, Project Manager, Marketing in Reykjanesbær:
gunnar.v.thrastarson@reykjanesbaer.is
