Strolling across one of the numerous bridges in Trondheim, a sign caught my eye, actually, a single word on the sign grabbed my attention “Pride”. In a colourful city of multi-hued warehouses, now converted to fashionable apartments, restaurants, bars and coffee shops, it seemed the perfect place to experience a gay pride parade for the first time. Pride in Trondheim I …
Adventure in Svalbard; At home inside the Arctic Circle
Svalbard is one of those destinations which appeals in a certain kind of way, an evocative place that is synonymous with adventure. The archipelago at 81° North, lies, deep within the Arctic Circle, it is sculpted by the elements, sea, wind and ice. Conjuring up images of polar bears searching for seals on sea ice, the dancing skies of the …
Colesbukta; Eerie Ghost town in Svalbard
The small convoy of snowmobiles weaved its way through a winding snow valley and rattled along icy trails across a frozen fjord, until the first signs of Colesbukta appeared. A field of rotting wooden supports, like tombstones in a snow-covered cemetery. Also, known as Coles Bay, a series of ramshackle, deserted structures, isolated in the pristine wilderness began to emerge …
Huge skies and deep breaths; Appreciating the scenery of Arctic Norway
Guest post by Alison Bailey The one abiding memory I have taken home from my time sailing in Hurtigruten, is the breath-taking scenery of Arctic Norway, and, of course, the Northern Lights. Living in North-West England, a highly populated place on planet earth, it has been a while since I was in a position to truly appreciate the unobstructed views …
TromsØ, Norway, Statues, Huskies and Snow Hotels
Guest Post by Alison Bailey The voyage to Hurtigruten is already quite an adventure, but there are many other wonderful things to do in Norway. Enhancing any visit to this wonderful, hospitable country. My trip included a stopover in TromsØ, my hotel, the Rica Ishavshotel, is conveniently situated right on the quayside. I therefore, had a short walk with my …
Voyage to the Northern Lights with Hurtigruten, Norway
Guest Post by Alison Bailey It’s small wonder Iain still has his hand intact, as I nearly bit it off when asked if I could go to the very north of Norway in his place! A huge thanks to Hurtigruten UK for arranging the trip, and the crew of the MS Richard With, for taking rather good care of our …