The AMAZING Northern Lights and Arctic - with Hurtigruten

• Seasonal Planning: When planning a holiday in Norway with a focus on a cruise and land tour, it’s essential to consider the time of year. Summer, from June to August, is the most popular season for cruises and land tours due to milder weather, extended daylight hours, and the opportunity to witness the Midnight Sun.
• Cruise Options: Norway offers a range of cruise options, from fjord cruises to coastal voyages. Consider your preferences and interests when choosing a cruise route. The classic Hurtigruten coastal cruise is a great choice, allowing you to explore Norway’s stunning coastline and picturesque fjords.
• Land Tour Highlights: Complement your cruise with land tours that showcase Norway’s natural beauty and cultural treasures. Explore cities like Oslo, Bergen, and Trondheim, or venture into the Arctic Circle to see the Northern Lights during the winter season.
• Winter Wonders: If you’re visiting Norway during the winter months (December to February), embrace the magic of the snowy landscape. Enjoy activities such as dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowmobiling in Northern Norway. Dress warmly and pack appropriate clothing, including thermal layers and waterproof gear.
• Northern Lights Chase: Witnessing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list experience. Opt for a land tour in Tromsø or Alta during the winter months for a chance to see this natural wonder. Remember to check the forecast and head out to areas with minimal light pollution on clear nights.
• Summer Adventures: In the summer, take advantage of the extended daylight hours for hiking and exploring. Popular destinations include the Geirangerfjord, Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), and the North Cape. Pack comfortable walking shoes and stay hydrated during your outdoor adventures.
• Cultural Immersion: Experience the rich culture and heritage of Norway. Visit historical sites like the Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim or the Viking Ship Museum in Oslo. Sample traditional Norwegian cuisine, including fresh seafood and reindeer dishes.
• Wildlife Encounters: Norway offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. Keep an eye out for whales, puffins, and sea eagles during your cruise. If you’re visiting during the summer, take a wildlife safari to witness the diverse birdlife in the Arctic.
• Currency and Payment: Norway uses the Norwegian Krone (NOK) as its currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases in more remote areas. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.
• Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and etiquette. Tipping is not obligatory, as service charges are often included in bills. Norwegians value punctuality, and it’s polite to greet people with a friendly “hello” (heisann) and “thank you” (takk) in Norwegian.

Ultimately, a holiday in Norway with a cruise and land tour offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and seasonal adventures. Be prepared for the specific season you choose to make the most of your journey in this Scandinavian gem.

Oslo:

1. Vigeland Park (Frogner Park): Explore the world’s largest sculpture park created by a single artist, Gustav Vigeland, and marvel at the impressive array of statues and sculptures.
2. The Viking Ship Museum: Discover well-preserved Viking ships and artifacts, providing a fascinating glimpse into Norway’s ancient history.
3. The Munch Museum: Visit the museum dedicated to the famous Norwegian artist Edvard Munch, home to iconic works such as “The Scream.”
4. Akershus Fortress: Explore this medieval castle and fortress, which offers panoramic views of Oslo and the Oslo Fjord.
5. Holmenkollen Ski Museum and Tower: Experience the history of winter sports in Norway and enjoy a fantastic view from the top of the iconic ski jump tower.

Bergen:

6. Bryggen Wharf: Stroll along the historic and colorful Bryggen Wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the charming wooden buildings.
7. Fløibanen Funicular: Take a ride on the Fløibanen funicular to the summit of Mount Fløyen for panoramic views of Bergen and its surrounding fjords.
8. Fish Market (Fisketorget): Sample fresh seafood and local delicacies at the lively fish market near the waterfront.
9. Troldhaugen (Edvard Grieg’s Home): Visit the former residence of the renowned composer Edvard Grieg and explore the beautiful lakeside surroundings.
10. Hardangerfjord Day Trip: If time allows, take a day trip from Bergen to the picturesque Hardangerfjord region, known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and fruit orchards.

1. Viking Heritage: Norway has a rich Viking heritage, with the Viking Age spanning from the late 8th century to the early 11th century. Norwegians played a significant role in Viking exploration, trading, and raiding, and their influence extended to many parts of Europe.
2. The Union with Denmark: Norway was in a union with Denmark for over 400 years, from 1397 to 1814. This period significantly influenced Norwegian culture and governance.
3. The Kalmar Union: In 1397, Norway became part of the Kalmar Union, which included Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. This union had a profound impact on Norwegian history and led to the union with Denmark.
4. Treaty of Kiel: The Treaty of Kiel in 1814 marked the end of the Napoleonic Wars and transferred Norway from Danish to Swedish rule. However, Norway’s desire for independence and self-rule led to the Norwegian Constitution on May 17, 1814.
5. Norwegian Independence: May 17, 1814, is celebrated as Norway’s Constitution Day (Syttende Mai). It’s a day of national pride when the Norwegian Constitution was adopted, effectively declaring the country’s independence from Sweden.
6. Dissolution of the Union with Sweden: In 1905, following a peaceful dissolution of the union with Sweden, Norway gained full independence and established its own monarchy, with King Haakon VII as its first monarch.
7. World War II Occupation: Norway was occupied by Nazi Germany during World War II, from 1940 to 1945. The resistance movement played a significant role in opposing the occupation, and Norway was liberated by the Allied forces in 1945.
8. Post-War Prosperity: After World War II, Norway experienced an economic transformation, partly due to the discovery of oil and natural gas reserves in the North Sea. The responsible management of these resources through the Government Pension Fund Global (Norway’s sovereign wealth fund) has made Norway one of the wealthiest nations in the world.
9. Sami Indigenous Culture: The Sami people are the indigenous people of Northern Scandinavia, including parts of Norway. They have a unique culture, language, and traditional livelihoods like reindeer herding, and their rights and recognition have been a subject of historical and ongoing discussion in Norway.
10. Nobel Peace Prize: The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded annually in Oslo, Norway. Alfred Nobel, the founder of the Nobel Prizes, specified in his will that the Peace Prize should be awarded in Norway. This has made Oslo an important center for diplomacy and international peace efforts.

These historical insights offer a glimpse into Norway’s diverse and fascinating past, from its Viking roots to its role on the world stage today.

Speak to me about airfares, stopovers, adding on additional time in Bergen or Oslo, UK or European tours and hotels and much more!

Happy to help with my 25 years of experience…

Regards,

Bryce