Radisson Blu Saga Hotel

The Radisson Blu Saga, in a neighborhood of residential and commercial properties, attracts more business travelers than tourists. Its striated wood-paneled lobby is thick with the after-work crowd. Visitors tend to gather in lobby niches furnished with lipstick-red wingback chairs around low tables and the circular bar of slatted wood. The artwork could be swapped out for a few more contemporary pieces since the hotel's Corporate Modern blue glass and masonry facade is retro-chic. The hotel's top floor restaurant, Grillid, has grey felted chairs, crisp, white tablecloths, and a panoramic view. The third restaurant, for more casual fare, is under an atrium and centered around a fireplace. With its spacious gym, luxurious spa that includes Egyptian murals and reliefs, and hair salon, this Radisson Blu Saga strives to provide their guests with everything they need post-work. 

Guests at the Radisson Blu Saga may be able to see whales breach in the sea outside their rooms. However, they must walk at least 15 minutes to reach the city center. Still, a few sights are in walking distance as well, such as the National and University Library of Iceland, which is a three-minute walk away, or the National Museum of Iceland, which is six minutes on foot. Reykjavik City Hall can be reached in 13 minutes on foot, while City Walk is three minutes beyond. Hallgrimskirkja, a soaring church, is seven minutes away by car, as is Perlan, the revolving, domed restaurant. Nautholsvik, a geothermal beach, is a seven-minute drive. A local pool at Laugardalur is an 11-minute drive. Blue Lagoon, a popular geothermal spa, is a 45-minute car ride. The Reykjavik International Airport is 50 minutes away by car. The central bus station, BSI Reykjavik, is a five-minute drive or 20-minute walk from the hotel. 

Rooms at the Radisson Blu Saga provide a solid, upscale range of amenities, but furnishings are dated and sometimes worn. One highlight is the views: Most of the rooms overlook the mountains, glaciers, and the sea. Decor in Standard Room leans toward orange hues, while Business Class Rooms are more tailored with subdued hues save for a few vibrant purple accents; they include details like brown leather headboards. But throughout the classic and contemporary furniture may have chipped edges or an upholstery stain. Bed linens are white with individual duvets, and hypoallergenic bedding is available. However, guests complain the single beds are too small. Amenities include flat-screen TVs, irons and boards, safes, mini-fridges and coffee/tea facilities; Business Class Rooms and Suites also have Nespresso machines. Wi-Fi and newspapers are free. Bathrooms are fitted with lovely cream marble, long counter sinks, tile floors, and contemporary fixtures. Curtained shower/tub combos are simple and serviceable. Toiletries are by This Works and include, unusually, shaving kits. A colorful, themed family-friendly suite is available with a special kids' gift, toys, games, and a DVD player. And rollaway beds are available on request, for an extra fee.

The Radisson Blu Saga offers several services to guests who have neither the time nor the inclination to book dinner reservations or schedule hair appointments. To this end, the hotel has a hair salon and barber shop. Its spa also has a number of treatments including facials, aromatherapy, and a Turkish bath. The fitness center, with mirrored and windowed walls, has treadmills, a strength-training circuit, and free weights. For guests that prefer to exercise outside, bicycles can be rented in the summertime. The hotel has three restaurants. Its top floor Grillid Restaurant tempers its tailored decor with its dramatic views of the shoreline. The casual Skrudur restaurant serves buffet and a la carte lunch and dinner with a fireplace at its center. Skrudur includes an ice cream bar and a play area for children who have their own menu. Breakfast is served in a bustling first-floor room with a big buffet. Mimisbar & Lounge specializes in Icelandic craft beer, and has light meals, happy hour, and weekend live music. Room service is 24 hours as well. Business travelers will find eight, flexible-designed meeting rooms with space that includes casual seating areas with plush sofas and coffee tables, plasma screens, and video conferencing capability. There's a gift shop that emphasizes local knitwear, and laundry and dry cleaning services are available for a fee. The lobby provides free newspapers, Wi-Fi, and luggage storage, and an ATM and banking options. The front desk, staffed 24 hours, is multilingual and can arrange tours and car rentals. Airport transfers are provided for a fee. Pets are not allowed.