Welcome from the Mayor

It is my pleasure to welcome young athletes from all over the world to Reykjavík, for the International Children's Games in 2007. We are honoured to host these wonderful games in "the City of Pure Energy". Pure energy refers to Reykjavík's vibrant cultural and sports scene and the plentiful sources of renewable, geothermal energy that ensures clean air and unpolluted water. Our young guests will be invited to stay and compete in Laugardalur, the valley of sport, where everything is accessible on foot, in a city that offers perpetual daylight during the games.

Laugardalur literally means hot spring valley, deriving its name from the hot water that once flowed from the ground. This water is now harnessed in Laugardalslaug, the city's largest swimming pool and home to the national family sport of outdoor swimming. The road Laugavegur, between Laugardalur and the town centre, is the main shopping street of Reykjavík. In a matter of minutes, our guests can enter bustling shopping streets and malls, that remind us that Icelanders are prosperous and pride themselves on being on the forefront of music, design and fashion. Wish you all good luck in the International Children's Games in June 2007 and I look forward to your contribution to the energetic atmosphere of Reykjavík.

Good luck and enjoy yourselves,

Vilhjálmur Þ. Vilhjálmsson
Mayor of Reykjavík