Luxe Beat Magazine JUNE 2015 | Page 37

Travel Kex has a café and bar, lounge, outdoor heated patio, gym and meeting room in a mix of eclectic and industrial environment. (PHOTOGRAPHY TRAVEL CHANNEL) however it makes perfect sense, as “kex” means biscuit in Icelandic and the building is a former biscuit factory. Right in the center of one of Reykjavik trendiest neighborhoods, the hostel, which shares the building with the Living Art Museum and has rooms that start at 64 euro a night, is a hit with traveling artists and fashion hounds (and me). Kex accommodates its 142-max nightly guests with its café and bar, lounge, outdoor heated patio, gym and meeting room in its mix of eclectic and industrial environment. Hostels didn’t begin as accommodations that could be synonymous with luxury. Originally started by hospitable strangers who wanted to help out lonely backpackers and travelers, hostels have evolved into “the new hotel,” perfectly equipped for those seeking the modern, the friendly, the lavish and the culturally sound. The modern, pristine U Hostels has free WiFi as well as a private movie theater within its quarters. (PHOTOGRAPHY U HOSTELS) From 20 euro a night, guests can lounge in both private and dormitory-style rooms at the Gallery Hostel, with stunning views of the city. (PHOTOGRAPHY GALLERY HOSTEL) 37