Inspired by Iceland – a German film maker becomes guesthouse owner

Having gained his first insight into Iceland as an apprentice at North Sailing, Martin Varga was actually so impressed by his experience as part of one of North Sailing‘s crews in the summer of 2006, that he asked to return the following year.

 

As it happened, Martin stayed with North Sailing for every season until 2013. By that time the 38 year old German film maker decided it was time to settle permanently in Húsavík with his girlfriend Elena and their young son Luis.

 

Dreams come true
For six years, Martin nurtured his dream of opening a guesthouse and running his own business. Overcoming the challenge of restoring an old caviar production facility, his dream became a reality last summer when he opened his Tungulending guesthouse.

 

Martin thoroughly enjoys the proximity to the North Atlantic. ‘Tungulending is the perfect location to run my guesthouse. The spot is just amazing, surrounded by a remarkable environment next to the ocean.’

 

Looking back, Martin says his years at North Sailing were highly educating as tasks ranged from being a crew member to working as a videographer as well as in marketing. According to Martin, the open nature of locals to fresh ideas is one of the keys behind his Icelandic inspiration.

 

International flair

Preparing for the high season, Martin is now offering the opportunity to follow in his footsteps. ‘To share knowledge and different culture is one of the keys to operating a guesthouse with an international flair,’ he concludes.

 

Check out the website, www.tungulending.is