H.E me Thorir Ibsen, Ambassador of Iceland to India spoke with members of the tourism industry on September 23, at The Conclave. The Ambassador spoke about the enormous business potential that exist between the two countries.
Speaking at the event, Ibsen said, “Iceland and India are the two fastest growing economies in their respective regions and business relation between Iceland and India offer numerous opportunities. To name but a few, they include expertise in renewable energy, food processing technologies, environmental technology, digital technology, medical devices and biotechnology. And then, there is of course the film industry and tourism, fashion, design, cosmetics and pure water.”
He further went on to add, “There are only 2.3 lakh people living in Iceland but the growth of the tourist industry is 3 times larger to Belgium. During peak seasons, the number of tourists n the country is five time its population.”
Elucidating upon Iceland as a destination, Mr Thorir Ibsen said, “Iceland is popular because of several reasons. It has a quiet and pristine nature and has a lot of opportunities for adventure sports as well. Ice climbing is a major sport which adventure seekers would love as would the glaciers around the country intrigue them.”
The Ambassador also spoke about the diverse flaura and fauna of the country and the fact that the famous Gerua song starring Shahrukh Khan and Kajol was shot there. Speaking about possible cinematic endeavours at Iceland, he said that the government their gives a 20% reimbursement to the film industry of the cost they incur while shooting there.
Among other things, the ambassador also spoke about the F&B industry at Iceland the ease in transportation for tourists in the country.
Filming in Iceland
Why did Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol go to Iceland for the making of the movie Dilwale? For the same reason that other great movies have been filmed in Iceland like Oblivion, The Game of Thrones, Thor, Star Trek, Batman, James Bond, Nayak, Brindavana, Aadhavan and Namo Venkatesha: The spectacular locations, professional services and government incentives.
Iceland offers a variety of unique filming locations unlike anywhere else in the world. It’s stark landscape and amazing range of geological and natural phenomena with imposing glaciers, geysers, black sand beach, lava fields, floating icebergs, majestic waterfalls, stark highlands, steam emitting red and yellow sulphur mountains, active and dormant volcanoes are a treat to film makers. In Iceland, this spectrum of scenery is all within easy reach.
Local film services companies with trained local crews with proven experience for producing quality films in tough conditions provide international film makers with the full range of professional services including assistance with locations, crew, equipment, casting, studios and required permits.
Film producers can also apply for reimbursements from the State Treasury of 25% of the costs incurred in the production of films and television programmes in Iceland. The reimbursement scheme is simple, transparent and effective. And since Iceland is a member of the EU single market, films and television programs made in Iceland are classified as European material when released in Europe.
Tourism Iceland
Iceland is a fascinating tourist destination. It is the perfect destination for those who want to refresh their spirit, and combine adventure and unique nature with clean air and clean water owing to pure and renewable energy resources. From a wide variety of things to do, one can enjoy a relaxing visit to the nature bath at “Blue Lagoon” with a relaxing dip in clouds of steam rising up from fissures deep in the earth’s surface that ends with a luxurious bath in warm natural water.
Land of the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun, of Viking heritage and the most modern design imaginable, of magical folklore and friendly people, Iceland sits at the top of Europe with an abundance of history, metropolitan atmosphere, sublime dining and plenty of charming experiences for you to enjoy. There’s no place else like it!! Look around and you see volcanoes, waterfalls and glaciers, lava fields and fjords. And don’t let the name fool you! Thanks to the warming effects of the Gulf Stream, Iceland enjoys temperate climate all year round. Regardless of the season, Icelanders will warmly welcome you. We love to share our culture, and will make the extra efforts to ensure that your stay, much like the spectacular landscape, will never be forgotten.
