The Reykjavík Grapevine is free alternative magazine in English published 18 times a year. The magazine covers everything Iceland-related, with a special focus on news-related events, human interest stories, music, culture and events.
Valur Grettisson and Poppy Askham go over the today's Icelandic news concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. deCODEGenetics published the latest findings from their analysis of COVID-19 screening data today. In other news, a woman was arrested for impersonating a nurse and possibly a lawyer. Join us a we dive into this strange story and more. Note: The Covid-Cast crew are going on a short vacation from recording while we consider our next steps, but tune in when we come back next Monday, April 20th.
There was a breakthrough today when the government announced that they are going to ease the restriction because of the COVID-19. Also, the numbers of infected haven’t been this low for more than a month.
The numbers of new COVID-19 cases have dropped significantly in Iceland today, but the situation is worsening in the country’s hospitals. The prospects of the tourism sector are also deteriorating as 26 cruises have now cancelled their trips to Iceland this summer. Violence is also in the news as threats have been made against the Chief of Police, the Surgeon General and the Head of Epidemiology in recent days Domestic violence is thought to be on the rise as more people stay at home. Two women around 60 years old have died and family members are being questioned by police. Valur Grettisson and Poppy Askham discuss these issues and more as they go through the latest developments in Iceland’s COVID-19 crisis. Also listen in for an insight into the current situation in the UK, where Poppy is reporting from, following the news that Boris Johnson has been taken into intensive care.
Valur Grettisson and Poppy Askham go over Iceland’s latest COVID-19 news including travel advice, an outbreak of the virus in a Westfjords nursing home and discussions about PPE supplies in Iceland. As we start the week during which Iceland’s outbreak is predicted to peak, over 1500 Icelanders are infected and six people have died from the virus.
In this episode of COVID-Cast, Valur Grettisson and Sam O’Donnell discuss the current number of patients in Iceland, a four-month-old boy who got infected with the virus, and also dive into the current situation in the United States, where Sam is from.
Valur Grettisson and Poppy Askham go over Iceland’s latest COVID-19 news and Poppy talks about the current situation in her home country, the UK. The rise in Iceland’s number of confirmed cases is apparently slowing. This might change, but it could be a sign for hope. More about this in the COVID-Cast.
Valur Grettisson and Hannah Jane Cohen go through the latest news about the COVID-19 pandemic in Iceland. Currently, the numbers of patients are up but the virus is spreading slower in Iceland than in other parts of Europe. Also on the roster: Iceland recently uncovered about 26,000 desperately needed testing swabs. The Blue Lagoon has been hit hard by the epidemic and laid off over 100 employees today. The two also talk Social Distancing entertainment: Valur is reading Dracula to flee from reality, while Hannah Jane is binging ‘Dr. House’ in order to solve the crisis.
Icelanders are now close to 1,000 individuals with COVID-19, and the government is preparing for a back up hospital. Valur Grettisson, editor-in-chief at the Reykjavík Grapevine and Sveinbjörn Pálsson, our art director, go through the news and updates about the virus in Iceland as well as answering questions from our readers.
In this episode, we discuss the recent spike in COVID-19 transmissions. Iceland is currently headed towards higher numbers than initial predictions told. We also recently experienced the first death of an Icelander from COVID-19. As well, we talk about the almost 10,000 people in quarantine in the country. Support Grapevine: https://grapevine.is/high-five-club/
The start of a new week in Iceland comes with a whole host of new measures in the fight against COVID-19. Travel restrictions, a new 20 person gathering ban and the closure of swimming pools, sports centres, libraries and entertainment venues have all recently been announced. Today to discuss these changes, plus reports of infections in Parliament and redundancies at Icelandair, are Hannah Jane Cohen, culture editor and listings director at the Reykjavík Grapevine, and intern Poppy Askham. Support Grapevine: https://grapevine.is/high-five-club/
About 400 people have the Covid-19 virus in Iceland now, the first Covid-19-related death has been confirmed, and a crew on a trawler has the virus. Also, Iceland have agreed to participate in the EU travel ban. This information is not in the Covid-Cast, because it was announced just moments after we finished recording. So, the borders are closed to every country outside the Schengen area. Support Grapevine: https://grapevine.is/high-five-club/
Valur Grettisson and Hannah Jane Cohen of The Reykjavík Grapevine give you the updates on the status of COVID-19 in Iceland. More are getting sick while tests are running out. As well, Icelanders returning from abroad are being quarantined, while tourists coming from the same countries are not. We also discuss the response Icelanders have had to the Australian widow on the Facebook page, “With Love From Us.” Support Grapevine: https://grapevine.is/high-five-club/
Valur Grettisson, editor-in-chief, and Hannah Jane Cohen, listings director and culture editor at the Reykjavík Grapevine, discuss the later developments of COVID-19 in Iceland. On the roster for this episode: One tourist died in Iceland yesterday. While he tested positive for COVID-19, it’s unclear if that was the cause of death. We also discuss the recent EU travel ban, as well as what one can do in Iceland when “social distancing” is the new norm. If you want to support Grapevine's journalists, here is our High Five Club — https://grapevine.is/high-five-club/
Valur Grettisson, Editor-in-chief and Andie Sophia Fontaine, news editor at The Reykjavík Grapevine go over the newest developments in the Covid-19 crisis in Iceland. More people are affected, as health workers take more samples. The Icelandic economy is in dire straits but hey, the swimming pools are open again! The Icelandic government objects to the EU’s proposed Schengen area travel ban, and we talk about what we can learn from Iceland’s response. If you want to support Grapevine's journalists, here is our High Five Club — https://grapevine.is/high-five-club/
What’s happening in Iceland in the time of the novel coronavirus? Valur Grettisson, the editor-in-Chief of Reykjavík Grapevine and Andie Sophia Fontaine, news editor, go over the situation in CovidCast. In this episode, we talk about the public gatherings ban, high-risk areas, what to expect if you travel to Iceland from those countries and the result of the deCODE Genetic screenings. If you like us, then really like us! And subscribe of course. Also, if you want to support us in this trying time, here is our High Five Club — https://grapevine.is/high-five-club/
The Reykjavik Grapevine Covid-Cast is a daily news podcast about the Coronavirus situation in Iceland. In this first episode, Andie Sophia Fontaine and Valur Grettisson talk about the gathering-ban and answer questions about how things stand now in Iceland.
In this episode, Grapevine news editor Andie Sophia Fontaine talks with witch and impressario Alda Villiljós about the concept of being nonbinary—what it means, what it doesn't mean, and why nonbinary people are not some recent Tumblr-based trend, but have existed for as long as people have existed. Enjoy!
Kimi goes on a date with comedian þorgerður María. They exchange gifts, discuss the intricacies of ice cream etiquette and make plans to meet Mumma T. How will it end- there’s only one way to find out...
We’ve got issues, and we wanna talk about them! Our longtime readers know that we have features in every issue. This is a podcast where we walk through the magazine and talk about those features at length. In this episode, Valur and Sam walk through the Hatari issue. We delve into the controversy surrounding Bíó Paradís, as well as the controversy surrounding ÚTL. We also talk about the first sign of spring: the return of the sun! Other topics include Ásatrú getting a new temple, Icelandic superstitions, a sneak peek at one of the features in the next issue, and more! Tune in, and don’t forget to like and subscribe.
Kimi goes on an unexpectedly bizarre fantasy date with comedian and good egg Arnór Daði Gunnarsson. It’s the battle of the good eggs. Expect in-depth cake chat, a cameo from Lady Gaga and a plot twist. How will it end- there’s only one way to find out...
Kimi goes on a cosy, quintessentially British fantasy date with comedian and improv queen Laufey Haralds. Heading out of Iceland, they make yummy noises, discuss their favourite moments from the Twilight Saga, and smell the roses. How will it end- there’s only one way to find out...
In this episode, Ines and Sam talk about the wonders of alcohol in Iceland. They go in depth about the prohibition of beer, the high cost of spirits, and the hassle of having to go to a whole separate store to buy anything alcoholic. Sam almost comes to terms with his toxic relationship with alcohol, but decides not to. Instead, SHOTS!
In this episode of the Trans Icelandic Broad Cast, Andie Sophia Fontaine and Sæborg Ninja Urðardóttir discuss how trans people are portrayed in television and movies. They discuss what's been done wrong, what's been done right, and why positive representation matters. Speaking of representation, Andie and Sæborg would like to warmly invite any trans masculine or nonbinary people to reach out to be special guests on the podcast. Those interested are asked to send an email to andie@grapevine.is. Enjoy!
On Love Ísland, comedian Kimi Tayler swipes right and gets to know the most interesting, attractive minds in Iceland as they head off on a fantasy date. On this, the fourth episode, Kimi goes on her weirdest, most well planned date yet as she swipes right on the reigning drag king of Iceland, HANS. Armed with unlimited money and a teleportation machine they discuss their favourite of Henry VIII’s wives, death eater aesthetics and “grabbing the hand”. They say opposites attract - there’s only one way to find out…
On this episode of the Trans Icelandic Broad Cast, news editor Andie Fontaine and treasurer of Trans Iceland Sæborg Ninja Urðardóttir discuss how to be a good ally for trans people. We know a lot of you who aren't trans nonetheless support them, but perhaps you're concerned about how to do it the right way. Not to worry! It's pretty simple, as they explain in this fun and informative podcast.
On this episode of the Trans Icelandic Broad Cast, news editor Andie Fontaine and treasurer of Trans Iceland Sæborg Ninja Urðardóttir offer dating advice—for cisgender folks looking to date trans women. They talk about everything, from sliding into those DMs, to sex, to making a good impression when you're on the town. It's the only guide you'll need to having a great first date, and maybe more (if you're lucky)!
In this episode, Sam, Ines, and Lea all discuss the most interesting, funny, and surprising things that they discovered when they first arrived to Iceland. Topics include how small the country is, weather patterns, the language, and other peculiarities they noticed upon their arrival.
Kimi goes on a *confusing* date with comedian and good egg Mauricio Rodriguez. They discuss pickles, friendship and much more. How does his wife feel about the date? How will it all end? There’s only one way to find out...
In this episode, Inês and Sam take on Icelandic media’s peculiarities. Topics include profanity being allowed on radio and TV, Sign Language News reporting, and much more. They even praise Icelandic movie theatres for the English subtitles and foreign films, as well as the libraries and bookstores for the bountiful selection of media geared towards non-Icelandic speakers. As an extra, Sam even teaches us what VPN’s are all about since streaming services are quite limited in the land of ice and fire.
Just like everyone else in Iceland, the office of The Grapevine is lucky enough to receive people from all over the world. And of course, just like everyone else in Iceland, these people have opinions they can’t wait to share. In “First impressions” The Grapevine’s interns share their thoughts on Icelandic culture and Icelanders’ habits. Learn first-hand about what they think is weird, inspiring, and flat-out gross about Iceland. And since comparisons are inevitable, they’re bound to share things about their home countries. With food reviews, media talks, and a lot more questions than answers, they show that Iceland is a beautiful but confusing place.
On the first episode of the Trans Icelandic Broad Cast, news editor Andie Fontaine and treasurer of Trans Iceland Sæborg Ninja Urðardóttir discuss some of the common myths and misconceptions about the trans experience. This includes both the psychological and physical—including surgery, whether you need a doctor's diagnosis to confirm if you're trans (spoilers: you don't), and other fun topics. Learn a thing or two about the trans people in your life, and have fun doing it!
Kimi goes on a date with comedian and podcaster Jono Duffy. They discuss what it’s like being the gay power couple of Icelandic comedy, a mutual love of David Attenborough documentaries and do a lot of eating..and sitting, whilst scooting out on their fantasy date. How will it all end? There’s only one way to find out...
Tagline: When it comes to movies, thing’s might get ugly. Premises: Valur Grettisson and Hannah Jane Cohen work together at The Reykjavík Grapevine. Although everything looks normal on the surface, inside, each finds the other a total idiot when it comes to movies. Whose taste is superior? You decide.
On Love Ísland, comedian Kimi Tayler swipes right and gets to know the most interesting, attractive minds in Iceland as they head off on a fantasy date. On this debut episode, Kimi meets comedian and award winning screenwriter, Snjólaug Lúðvíksdóttir. They discuss Snjólaug’s dislike of fish pics, and consider the most awkward exchanges they’ve had on dates whilst heading out of the city on their fantasy date. How will it all end? There’s only one way to find out.
Getting a peek inside the Cardif music scene with Boy Azooga, also Ösp from Hrím describes a hectic Airwaves week with only four songs and one prior gig under their belt, and Katla from Between Mountains describes life in the Westfjords and how to balance music duties with regular life. #grapewaves
Getting a peek inside the Cardif music scene with Boy Azooga, also Ösp from Hrím describes a hectic Airwaves week with only four songs and one prior gig under their belt, and Katla from Between Mountains describes life in the Westfjords and how to balance music duties with regular life.
In the third Airwaves 2019 Tune In podcast, we take a musical journey to Indonesia and see Reyjavik through a new set of eyes with Elda Suryani of Stars And Rabbit. Tim was also joined by María Rut Reynisdóttir, the project manager of Reykjavík Music City and hanging at one of the city's longtime cultural meeting spots to getting a glimpse of the Icelandic hardcore scene with Jón Már Ásbjörnsson of Une Misère. #grapewaves
In the third Airwaves 2019 Tune In podcast, we take a musical journey to Indonesia and see Reyjavik through a new set of eyes with Elda Suryani of Stars And Rabbit. Tim was also joined by María Rut Reynisdóttir, the project manager of Reykjavík Music City and hanging at one of the city's longtime cultural meeting spots to getting a glimpse of the Icelandic hardcore scene with Jón Már Ásbjörnsson of Une Misère.
The first day of Iceland Airwaves was a blast! While our six fantastic reporters are out and about to keep you updated on the highlights of the festival, we're honoured to have with us American radio host and DJ Tim Pogo. In this second Tune In podcast, Tim grabs coffee with the Canadian sisters from The Garrys at snaps, explores the revitalised harbour area at Grandi food hall with Warmland and catches a glimpse at landmarks in Reykjavík music history with Arnar Eggert of Reykjavík Music Walk.
The first day of Iceland Airwaves was a blast! While our six fantastic reporters are out and about to keep you updated on the highlights of the festival, we’re honoured to have with us American radio host and DJ Tim Pogo. In this second Tune In podcast, Tim grabs coffee with the Canadian sisters from The Garrys at snaps, explores the revitalised harbour area at Grandi food hall with Warmland and catches a glimpse at landmarks in Reykjavík music history with Arnar Eggert of Reykjavík Music Walk.
In episode one of Airwaves: Tuned In, Pogo first catches up with award-winning Icelandic musician Sindri Már of Seabear and Sin Fang fame to talk about the heavily anticipated Seabear album. Afterwards, he has a quick stop with Sindri—another, we know—the booking director of Airwaves to learn about the ins-and-outs of festival-making. Then it's onto rapper Cell7 about hip-hop and rap in Iceland and life changing experiences in Africa.
Welcome to the Airwaves Tuned In podcast, hosted by Tim Pogo and made in collaboration with The Reykjavík Grapevine and Einstök Beer. Stop by each day of Iceland Airwaves 2019 for some interviews, concert reviews, and special behind-the-scenes info from Airwaves pros and veterans. In episode one, Pogo first catches up with award-winning Icelandic musician Sindri Már of Seabear and Sin Fang fame to talk about the heavily anticipated Seabear album. Afterwards, he has a quick stop with Sindri—another, we know—the booking director of Airwaves to learn about the ins-and-outs of festival-making. Then it's onto rapper Cell7 about hip-hop and rap in Iceland and life changing experiences in Africa.
In episode 4, Pogo helps you wind down your Airwaves week in conversation with Icelandic artists Ólafur Arnalds and JFDR, plus the founder of Iceland Airwaves, Magnus Stephensen.
Welcome to the GrapeWaves Daily podcast, hosted by Tim Pogo and made in collaboration with The Reykjavík Grapevine and Einstök Beer. Each day of Iceland Airwaves 2018, he'll be interviewing some top Icelandic musicians and chatting with the faces of the festival, bringing you all the atmosphere of Reykjavík's annual music blowout. In episode 4, Pogo helps you wind down your Airwaves week in conversation with Icelandic artists Ólafur Arnalds and JFDR, plus the founder of Iceland Airwaves, Magnus Stephensen.
In episode three, Pogo talks to RVKDTR, music industry mover and shaker Colm O'Herlihy, new Airwaves festival operations manager Will Larnach Jones, and Var.
Welcome to the GrapeWaves Daily podcast, hosted by Tim Pogo and made in collaboration with The Reykjavík Grapevine and Einstök Beer. Each day of Iceland Airwaves 2018, he'll be interviewing some top Icelandic musicians and chatting with the faces of the festival, bringing you all the atmosphere of Reykjavík's annual music blowout. In episode three, Pogo talks to RVKDTR, music industry mover and shaker Colm O'Herlihy, new Airwaves festival operations manager Will Larnach Jones, and Var.
In episode two, Pogo catches up with award-winning Icelandic band Hugar, Rolling Stones journalist David Fricke, and Jess Partridge of the Keychange programme.
Welcome to the GrapeWaves Daily podcast, hosted by Tim Pogo and made in collaboration with The Reykjavík Grapevine and Einstök Beer. Each day of Iceland Airwaves 2018, he'll be interviewing some top Icelandic musicians and chatting with the faces of the festival, bringing you all the atmosphere of Reykjavík's annual music blowout. In episode two, Pogo catches up with award-winning Icelandic band Hugar, Rolling Stones journalist David Fricke, and Jess Partridge of the Keychange programme.
In episode One, Pogo catches up with award-winning Icelandic musician and composer Bára Gísladóttir to talk composition, double bass, Team Dreams, favourite rappers and lots more besides.
Welcome to the GrapeWaves Daily podcast, hosted by Tim Pogo and made in collaboration with The Reykjavík Grapevine and Einstök Beer. Each day of Iceland Airwaves 2018, he'll be interviewing some top Icelandic musicians and chatting with the faces of the festival, bringing you all the atmosphere of Reykjavík's annual music blowout. In episode one, Pogo catches up with award-winning Icelandic musician and composer Bára Gísladóttir to talk composition, double bass, Team Dreams, favourite rappers and lots more besides.