What does it look like to manage tourism well in places the world can’t stop visiting AND in the corners that are so remote even the sun doesn’t visit for months on end?
On May 10 – 17, we’re heading to Iceland with a small cohort of destination professionals to learn directly from the people doing the work: on the ground, in real time, in some of the most dynamic landscapes on the planet.
- Understand Icelandic visitor management strategies in high-use destinations
- Learn about innovative visitor experience development in rural, lower-resourced regions
- Learn about emergency preparedness for natural disasters and climate change resiliency
- Experience systematic integration of sustainable and regenerative tourism practices
- Deepen your connections with other professionals while exploring Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes and culture
Trip Highlights
- Guided by Crosscurrent’s Ólöf Ýrr Atladóttir, Icelandic local and former director of the Icelandic Tourist Board. Ólöf has international experience in destination development, having also served as Vice President of the European Travel Commission and worked in Saudi Arabia and the Red Sea. Now, she runs her own adventure business in North Iceland as an experienced hiking guide and floating instructor.
- Experience the breathtaking beauty of Iceland
- Meet with Icelandic Tourism Board, National Park staff, the Icelandic Tourism Cluster and community leaders
- Engagements co-facilitated by Crosscurrent’s founder, Kristin Dahl, a leader in supporting community-based destination development and leadership teams to manage complex destinations
- Meet with Reykjanes Unesco Global Geopark staff and leadership, exploring the geothermal fields and learn about the management of the rugged landscape.
- Explore, experience, and learn about collaboration on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, a participating region of the NorReg pilot project, working on regenerative tourism for small and micro-sized tourism operators.
Details
🗓 May 10–17, 2026
👥 Limited to 12 participants – Ideal for: Staff and leaders of destination organizations, cities, counties, economic development organizations, consultancies (planning, development, strategy, marketing), nonprofits focused on sustainable community development, and land managers.
💰 $3,850 Price includes educational programming with qualified Icelandic guide and tourism expert, transport, lodging (double occupancy), and most meals. Not included: airfare, meals first and last day, and activities outside of the itinerary. Single occupancy lodging available for an additional fee.
How to Sign Up
- Sign up with a $1,000 deposit to save your spot (email info@crosscurrentcollective for more information)
- Book your flights
- Attend the pre-trip planning session