Did you know it’s barely more than an hour flight to get from The Faroes to Norway’s capital city of Oslo? Well, I didn’t either. After a couple of days in the scenic Faroes (see last post HERE), we did just that. It’s important to give a shout out to Atlantic Airways, a very efficient service in this part of the world.
Below, Karl Johans Gate — sort of a main boulevard — leading up to the Royal Palace
No plans were on tap unlike the prior detailed itineraries (especially Iceland — read about it HERE). Seeing the iconic fjords was preeminent. My thinking is always that a good concierge is best employed in these matters.
Thus, with guidance we made a quick decision to experience “Norway in a Nutshell.”
The tour embarks in Oslo and ends up in Bergen (Norway’s second largest city), with our choice for a short flight back to Oslo. Other options are either train or car, but a flight seemed like the obvious choice.
Definition of Norway in a Nutshell — the fjords
So out of our four days in Norway, a day and a half would be spent on every type of transportation possible. That means trains (2), a boat (cruising the fjords), a bus (a relatively short ride), another train to Bergen, and the next day’s flight. We left most everything in our room at the Oslo hotel (the excellent Hotel Continental). Our room and belongings were just as we left them upon our return.
The plan went exceedingly well, until .. a train delay from Voss to Bergen. And then a flight delay back to Oslo. A 45-minute flight took off three hours later. But we did get food vouchers at the airport, so there’s that. And then I left my jacket in the Oslo train station. H&M in Oslo to the rescue!
And why share all of this? Because this is the stuff of travel, no matter how well one plans. To me it is building a portfolio of memories and experiences, which is a privilege. The best is getting to interact with people from everywhere.
Below, only one of these two men has been to a Dodger game. (The other just liked the cap)
As for Oslo, it’s very modern, very easy to navigate and very friendly. Spring flowers were just becoming visible. Food offerings (not only Norwegian salmon) are plentiful and delicious. As for the salmon, it’s basically the first thing you see for sale at the airport — it’s EVERYWHERE. As an aside, how “smart” are the airport designers who have travelers exit security directly into a Duty Free store! Below, my one salmon meal — at a Turkish restaurant.
Above and below, glimpses of Norway’s very modern capital city.
Below, the clear winner for “Best Meal in Norway (Oslo)” goes to Lofoten.
Hamachi with soy jelly; excellent wine (credit the hubby); bouillabaisse and outstanding halibut.
Below, from our visit to the Nobel Peace Center where the Peace Prize is awarded annually.
All of the other Nobel prizes originate in Stockholm. Alfred Nobel’s story is told along with a history of the recipients.
Above, the original medal first given in 1921 (prior winners did not receive this). Below, recipient Elie Weisel; no words necessary.
As we head to our next stop completing our Scandinavian visit, enjoy a few more photos of the fjords. On to Stockholm!
