Norway

My journey to Norway took me to a Royal Palace where people mourned the loss of their beloved King, also into the panoramic Oslofjord, and along the stunning waterfront to see impressive modern architecture and a medieval fortress.

GETTING THERE

Most travelers arrive at Norway’s main airport in the capital city of Oslo OSL, on direct flights from across Europe, the USA, and Asia. There are also ferries coming into Norway from nearby European countries.

The airport was very organized, and it had an efficient train system inside the terminal, to take travelers to Oslo Station, in the city center, or elsewhere. Keep in mind, Norway is one of the only countries in Europe that don’t use Euro, so get money changed to Norwegian Krone NOK, or plan to use credit cards, which are widely accepted.

AMAZING EXCURSIONS

Oslo was a hilly city, with a beautiful long waterfront area. It had a great mix of historic buildings, contemporary architecture and cobblestone streets. The magnificent white Oslo Opera House sat on the waterfront, with its geometrical design and extra large windows. Just a few blocks away was the medieval Akershus Fortress, which has survived since the 1300’s and the Aker Brygge marina with many waterside restaurants.

Not far from the water was the Royal Palace. I visited during a time of mourning for Norway’s beloved King Harald V, so the palace grounds were filled with flowers, memorials, and tearful people paying tribute. Flags all over the country were at half staff in his honor.

The capital city sat on spectacular Oslofjord, which included dozens of islands. There were many ferries and boat cruises taking people out onto the fjord to explore. The picturesque countryside near Oslo had many scenic lakes, meandering rivers, rolling hills, evergreen forests, and idyllic small towns.

Norway was internationally known as one of the five Polar Beach nations and also for its incredible access to the Northern Lights. I’ll go back another time to see the Aurora Borealis dance in the sky & search for Polar Bears in Svalbard.

As for food, what stood out the most was the freshest, most flavorful cold smoked Salmon I’ve ever tasted, and there were delicious oblong, perfectly yellow, juicy pears which I’d never seen before. Also, Skolebolle was an awesome treat, soft bread with pudding inside, all of it surrounded with coconut glaze.

While Norway’s natural beauty made a big impact, so did the combination of old and new architecture, and the loyal, kind hearted people in mourning for their cherished King.