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Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 3 - Arrive @ 21:40, Depart @ 22:00 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 10 / Day 4 - Arrive @ 21:00, Depart @ 21:30 Climate Midnight Sun - Not applicable Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-239229/Norway/Trøndelag/Nærøysund/Rørvik Observations - other than Excursions The 20min stop northbound, and 30min stop southbound doesn't provide a long enough opportunity to get off the ship and visit. Eats N/A Walk N/A Rørvik - in one line Rørvik is only applicable to Port to Port travellers.

Its pretty cool for a quick visit. Take a walk around the top and then walk down into the crater. TL;DR It's certainly worth stopping off and having a quick look around. The parking fee is minimal. The Geological Marvel of Kerid The stats are 55 meters deep, 170 meters wide, and 270 meters long, making it a formidable geological landmark. The vibrant colors of the water are due to its mineral content, reflecting the landscape in an extraordinary way. The crater formed during a volcanic eruption in the last Ice Age. As the magma chamber beneath emptied, the ground collapsed, resulting in the current crater. This geological history adds an educational aspect to your visit, making Kerid a site of both beauty and significant scientific interest. Getting to Kerid Reaching Kerid Crater Lake is straightforward, nestled along the famous Golden Circle route - a popular tourist path in Iceland. Located about 15 kilometers from Selfoss and roughly 70 kilometers from Reykjavik, the crater is accessible by car. Ample parking near the entrance ensures a relaxed arrival. Several tour companies offer day trips that include Kerid as part of a larger itinerary. This option is excellent for travelers wanting to explore multiple attractions conveniently. For instance, a full-day tour might also take you to Gullfoss waterfall and Geysir geothermal area. Ideal Visiting Times Any time - we've been both winter and summer and for differing reasons - both seasons are fantastic for a visit. It is nice to avoid crowds though so early or late in the day would be my suggestion, after the day trippers have returned to Reykjavik. Enjoyable Activities at Kerid The crater lake is the main draw, though there are some hiking trails near by. We tend to stick to walking around the top, and then maybe down into the crater before returning to the car. As you plan your trip, be sure to add a stop off at Kerid to your itinerary. This remarkable crater lake is not only a magnificent sight but also a reminder of the power of nature and the beauty awaiting you in the world. Happy travels!

Here's our draft itinerary for visiting Okinawa in late January 2026. We haven't been to Okinawa before but have heard its name as a consequence of Karate Kid. We expect it will be the warmest visit of our trip to Japan in January - pleasant but not overly warm. We only have the equivalent of 3 full days and 3 nights - and want to pack in as much as possible without packing in too much that we don't take time to use all our senses to soak up the experience to the full. Day 1: Arrival and Dotonbori Exploration Arrival in Okinawa Welcome to Okinawa! After a short flight from Osaka, we'll be landing at Naha (Okinawa) Airport, at 17:05, collecting the bags, we'll be heading for the hotel, to make the most of our first evening, as the sun will already be setting. We have booked a hire car. This will be my first time driving in Japan - they drive on the left, same as the UK, so that should make it a little easier. We have booked a tiny Japanese style car, a Toyota Passo which should be ideal for the short runs that we have planned. The hotel, the Hilton Naha Shuri Castle is only 20mins away by car from the airport. Remainder of Day 1 I'd prefer not to eat in the hotel - they never feel authentic, having to deal for a mass market, as opposed to being true to their own. That said, there is a lounge bar on the 20th floor with apparently great views that I'm eager to visit. So I hope to be able to go out for a short walk and find some authentic food and drinks - I'm sure we won't be the first hotel guests trying to escape hotel food and drinks - so local providers will be geared up to expect us. We'll do some reading on tripadvisor closer to the time. Day 2: Cultural Immersion & Experiences Road trip As mentioned we'll have a car for this portion of our trip, and it will be good to get out and see a little of the island. Where we are staying in the south of the island does look quite populated - so getting away from the crowds will be high up on our list. We are planning to drive to Kadena Port to take a go at the family fishing experience that I found on Viator. If the weather is pleasant then a couple of hours of sea fishing before lunch might be ideal. I understand from some of the feedback, that if you do catch something - getting it cooked at a local restaurant can be arranged! Later in the day and further up the coast - there is a Mangrove Kayaking option available at Kadena Port - depending on weather conditions this might be a little fun. If there is time in the day - the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium looks to be interesting. It's one of the worlds largest acquariums and just under 80mins from the hotel. If the weather isn't any good for fishing or kayaking this will be a good alternative. Day 3: Cultural Immersion and Beer Go-Karts My son won't consider doing the street go-karts in Tokyo insisting that they are a menace that the locals would rather ban. I'm hoping that he might consider doing a similar experience in Okinawa. Its a Sunday morning that I've scheduled for 2 hours - we aren't going to be in the way of anyone. I'm already looking forward to getting dressed up as Pikachu . I'd also like to visit the Former Navy HQ Headquarters which is in Naha, and perhaps hire bikes to tour around Naha for the afternoon. Shuri castle is right beside the hotel - and appears to be one of the must do's in Okinawa. For now - I'm leaving this free to either eat out or take part in another experience Day 4: Last-Minute Shopping and Departure Departure from Okinawa After a quick breakfast we won't have a lot of time to get organised. Checking out of the hotel, and returning the car to the airport in time for our flight at 13:45 to Tokyo. I'm sure we'll grab some snacks at the airport. That's it I can already feel that Okinawa will probably be the calm filling between the fast paced Osaka and an even more hectic Tokyo. The promise of better weather, and access to a car should allow for a more chilled experience. As I have already said - I'd rather have too many options and leave some out if it gets too busy to enjoy. We'll commit or change the plans as we go - booking experiences as we go - buying local when we can, which will leave our itinerary nice and flexible. Let me know what you think. Happy travels!

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 3 - Arrive @ 02:45, Depart @ 03:00 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 11 / Day 5 - Arrive @ 16:30, Depart @ 17:30 Climate Midnight Sun - Not applicable Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-201405/Norway/Møre%20og%20Romsdal/Kristiansund/Kristiansund Observations - other than Excursions The port stop at Kristiansund is just 60mins, which doesn't give enough time to do much more than walk up along the sea front for 20mins, before turning around to make sure to be back on the ship in plenty of time for departure. Getting off the ship and stretching your legs will give you a better sense of the town. It is set on separate islands - and there are both road and ferries providing connectivity. Eats Lots of restaurants - too short a stop to visit. Walk There are good footpaths around the city. Kristiansund - in one line Kristiansund is a busy town - unfortunately the stop is not long enough to get a good look around.

Iceland is a land of stunning natural wonders, and among it's most captivating features is the Strokkur geyser. A visit to Iceland would not be complete without seeing the Geyser. Located in the geothermal area of Haukadalur, Strokkur stands out with its impressive eruptions, reaching heights of up to 30 meters. TL;DR PSA - Geyser eruptions are not to be missed. A Brief Overview of Strokkur Geyser Strokkur Geyser is one of the most active geysers in Iceland, erupting approximately every 5 to 10 minutes. This regularity makes it a highlight for tourists and an essential stop on the famous Golden Circle route. The geyser is part of a wider geothermal area that includes other hot springs and fumaroles, presenting unique geological features. Visually you can see the water moving in the pool, the pressure building below, before releasing a powerful blast of water and steam. Surrounding the geyser, the landscape looks a bit moon like, almost baron - there isn't a lot of vegetation. The Science Behind the Eruptions The eruptions of Strokkur occur because of geothermal energy and unique geological conditions in the region. Water seeps into the ground and is heated by magma deep beneath the surface. This process transforms the water into steam, leading to a build-up of pressure in the underground chamber. When the pressure reaches a critical point, the water is driven upward, resulting in a breathtaking eruption. Witnessing this eruption is thrilling and because of the regularity very accessible - it's a sure thing. There is a loud roar just before the geyser shoots a plume of water high into the air. Just make sure and stand up wind - or you will get wet. The Best Time to Visit Strokkur Strokkur can be visited year-round - I prefer winter as the hot steam contrasts with the cold air, but the cold can make standing around uncomfortable. We rented a cabin just over the hill from the Geysir and it was pretty special in the long summer days to walk over for a visit when all the crowds had went home. Tips for Witnessing the Eruptions To ensure a fulfilling visit to Strokkur, keep these practical tips in mind: Arrive Early: Aim to arrive in the early morning or later evening to avoid crowds. Be Patient: Even though Strokkur erupts regularly, there may be short waits in between eruptions. Capture the Moment: Don't forget to bring your camera or phone. Dress Appropriately: The geothermal area can be chilly and windy. Dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes to stay comfortable. Respect the Environment: Always follow the marked paths The Cultural Significance of Strokkur Strokkur is not only a remarkable natural wonder; it also holds cultural importance for the people of Iceland. For centuries, the geyser has been featured in Icelandic folklore and history. It represents the power of nature and the deep connection between the land and its inhabitants. Happy travels!

Planning a trip to Iceland? This stunning country offers breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences that captivate visitors. Yet, there's one often-overlooked aspect of your stay that can elevate your experience significantly: accommodation with a hot tub. TL;DR Don't book accommodation in Iceland if it doesn't come with a hot tub. Relaxation After a Day of Adventure Iceland is a paradise for explorers, with attractions like the Golden Circle and the Blue Lagoon drawing thousands of visitors each year. After a busy day of driving, hiking and sightseeing, nothing feels better than unwinding in a hot tub. The warm water eases sore muscles and provides a soothing setting to reflect on the day. Socialising with Friends and Family Hot tubs offer more than just relaxation; they are exceptional spots for socializing. Picture this: your friends or family gathered, sharing stories and laughter under Iceland’s starry sky. Even better when its snowing or raining - just wear a hat. Unique Icelandic Experience When visiting Iceland, embracing its geothermal activity is a must. Many accommodations feature hot tubs filled with natural geothermal water, offering an authentic experience. Imagine soaking in warm water sourced from the earth while surrounded by Iceland's breathtaking beauty. Scenic Views from your Hot Tub One of the most captivating features of hot tubs in Iceland is the incredible views they often provide. Many accommodations are positioned to offer stunning vistas of mountains, valleys, or even the enchanting Northern Lights. Choosing the Right Accommodation When selecting your Icelandic accommodation, investigating amenities is crucial. Prioritize places that feature hot tubs in their listings, as this can greatly influence your stay. Don’t forget to check reviews and testimonials that reflect the quality of the hot tub experience. Budget Considerations While accommodations with hot tubs might be pricier, the benefits in my opinion will clearly outweigh those marginal costs. Consider the value of relaxation, bonding, and unique experiences that a hot tub adds to your visit. It can turn your stay from ordinary to extraordinary. Final Thoughts A hot tub can be a game-changer for your Iceland accommodation experience. From providing a much-needed retreat after a day filled with adventure to being a gathering place for friends and family, the benefits are endless. Happy travels!

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 2 - Arrive @ 22:35, Depart @ 23:05 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 11 / Day 5 - Arrive @ 21:15, Depart @ 21:45 Climate Midnight Sun - Not applicable Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/2-3145581/Norway/Vestland/Gulen/Molde Observations - other than Excursions The 30min stop northbound, and 30min stop southbound doesn't provide a long enough opportunity to get off the ship and visit. Eats N/A Walk N/A Molde - in one line Molde is only applicable to Port to Port travellers.

Here's our draft itinerary for visiting Osaka in late January 2026. We haven't been to Osaka before - but know it to be Japan's culinary hotspot, offering a unique mix of tradition and modern living. We have heard of its reputation for incredible street food and are keen to try it. We only have 2 full days and 3 nights - and want to pack in as much as possible without packing in too much that we don't take time to use all our senses to soak up the experience to the full. . Day 1: Arrival and Exploration Arrival in Osaka Welcome to Osaka! After a short flight from Sapporo, we'll be landing at Itami (Osaka) Airport, at 19:45, collecting the bags, we'll be heading for the hotel. We intend to take the monorail over to Yamada Station (15mins), and then catch the first train to Sakaisuji Hommachi Station (30mins to 35mins). The station is very close to the Miyako City Osaka Hommachi hotel that we'll be staying at for the 3 nights. Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Local Cuisine Walking tour I've come across a self guided walking tour on Viator - which appears to be an app, allowing us to explore the city at our own pace, which I think we prefer. As it's about $1 - it's a no brainer. We'll spend the day following the app which promises to take us to or by the following places; Osaka Castle, Dontonbori Tsuriboro, America Mura, Hozenji Yokocho, Kuromon Market, Shinsaibashisuji Kita Shotengai, Namba Yasaka Shrine, Nipponbashi Denden Town, Tsutenkaku, Shitennoji, Orange Street, Harukas 300 Observation Deck, Shinsekai, Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine , teamLab Botanical Garden Osaka. It sounds like we will certainly get our steps in and a good understanding of what we might want to go back and see a little more of. Lunch & Dinner I want to try the takoyaki - octopus balls that are crispy on the outside and soft within, drizzled with savory sauce and finished with bonito flakes. No doubt we will also have some sushi. Evening Stroll and Dinner If we are not done by late afternoon we'll stay out and work dinner into the last leg of the tour, alternatively we will probably pick somewhere close to the hotel to have dinner - trying hard to avoid non-japanese restaurants. It looks like we are within walking distance of Dotonbori Canal - which I understand is pretty special at night. There I would like to try the okonomiyaki — a savory pancake packed with ingredients like cabbage, meat, and seafood. I don't see us getting the cruise on the canal - but who knows. Day 3: Option 1 - Cultural Immersion and Local Cuisine - Part 2 Morning at Osaka Castle We'll begin our day at Osaka Castle, a historical gem surrounded by stunning gardens, arriving early to avoid crowds - though maybe in January we might be on our own. Lunch in the Castle Area After the castle exploration, we'll head to Daruma for some kushikatsu, deep-fried skewered meat and vegetables served with a special dipping sauce. No double-dipping for us! Afternoon at Shitennoji Temple Post-lunch, we'll visit Shitennoji Temple, one of Japan's oldest temples. If the weather is behaving itself we may hire some bikes and explore a little further out. We'll leave that decision for the day as so much depends on weather. Dinner at Kuromon Ichiba Market As night falls, we'll either elect to find our own way around eating at Kuromon Ichiba Market, or decide that a guided food tour might be a better idea. Day 3: Option 2 - Day Trip to Nara Morning Train to Nara On our third day, we plan a quick 45min train ride to Nara, known for its historical sites and friendly deer - we are not sure if this is overdone now or not. Once you arrive, head to Nara Park, where you can encounter over 1,000 free-roaming deer that are considered sacred. We won't get involved in feeding them. Visit Todai-ji Temple Next, a visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an architectural wonder, with its Great Buddha Hall being the world's largest wooden building. Lunch in Nara For lunch, we've been told to try the soba noodles, as Nara is celebrated for its high-quality soba made from buckwheat flour. A warm bowl of soba paired with crispy tempura sounds perfect. Afternoon Stroll and Return to Osaka Post-lunch, take a leisurely wander through Nara's historic streets, discovering charming shops and cafes. In the late afternoon, return to Osaka and relax at the hotel before a final dinner. Dinner at a Local Izakaya For the last dinner in Osaka, we will try to visit a cozy izakaya (Japanese pub). Sample a variety of dishes that are already familiar and popular with ourselves - edamame, yakitori , and sashimi. We missed out on this last time we were in Japan - so looking forward to enjoying the welcoming atmosphere of local life. Just need to do a little more research to find the right pub. Day 4: Last-Minute Shopping and Departure Morning Shopping at Shinsaibashi We are bringing huge bags with us - so plenty of time to get some shopping in. We'll take some time on the final morning to do some shopping at Shinsaibashi, Osaka's iconic shopping district - which again is walking distance to the hotel. Lunch at a Conveyor Belt Sushi Restaurant For lunch, we'll experience the fun of kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt sushi) at Sushiro. We did this a lot last time we were in Japan and enjoyed it a lot. This interactive experience is much different from similar establishments at home. Departure from Osaka After an early lunch, we'll grab our bags from the hotel around 13:00, and make our way back to the airport in reverse - back up to Yamada Station, and then take the monorail to the airport ready for another internal flight - to Okinawa @ 17:05. Travelling back to the airport is an experience all of its own, and I don't want to be rushed. That's it As I said I'd rather have too many options and leave some out if it gets too busy to enjoy. We'll decide on the approach for Day 3 on the day. We'll book experiences as we go - buying local when we can, which will leave our itinerary nice and flexible. Let me know what you think. Happy travels!

Schedules Review the sailing schedule carefully. Depending on the time of the year the boat may visit Hjørundfjord . Round Voyage & Voyage North - Variant 3 - Hurtigruten operate this April & May, and September & October. Havila operate it September & October only. Arrive Ålesund @ 09:45, Depart @ 10:00 Arrive Hjørundfjord @ 12:15, Depart @ 15:45 Arrive Ålesund @ 18:00, Depart @ 20:00 Voyage South - Not applicable Climate Midnight Sun - Not applicable Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-2271968/Norway/Møre%20og%20Romsdal/Ørsta/Hjørundfjord%20kyrkje Observations - other than Excursions At Hjørundfjord the ship didn't dock, instead we got small tenders from the side of the ship to the small dock in the village of Urke. The village is very small, but has a lovely walk up into the hills - which then gives perfect views back down to the dock , and the ship in the fjord. The weather was perfect for our walk. Eats There was a small shop open for drinks. Walk There were empty roads and trails around the village. Hjørundfjord - in one line Quiet and peaceful. Happy travels! Back to full list of port visits

Schedules Review the sailing schedule carefully. Depending on the time of the year the boat may dock in Ålesund all day, alternatively it may only dock for a short while at Ålesund then progress to visit into the Geirangerfjord to Geiranger for a short stop , before returning to Ålesund. Round Voyage & Voyage North -  Day 2 - Variant 2 - Hurtigruten operate this June to August. Havila operate it May to August. Arrive Ålesund @ 09:45, Depart @ 10:00 Arrive Geiranger @ 14:25, Depart @ 14:45 Arrive Ålesund @ 19:00, Depart @ 20:00 Voyage South - Not applicable Climate Midnight Sun - Not applicable Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-177457/Norway/Møre%20og%20Romsdal/Stranda/Geiranger Observations - other than Excursions The 20min stop northbound doesn't provide a long enough opportunity to get off the ship and visit. The Geirangerfjord is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Eats N/A Walk N/A Geiranger - in one line Geiranger is only applicable to Port to Port travellers. Happy travels! Back to full list of port visits

Among the many attractions in Reykjavik, the relatively new Sky Lagoon has taken one of the top spots as a top destination. This geothermal spa offers a blend of relaxation, natural beauty, and a sprinkle of Icelandic magic. TL;DR As it was man made as opposed to natural, I was determined not to like this place. I thought I should visit to evidence my view. I was wrong - it's a pretty cool place, and very accessible to tourists as it's in the city of Reykjavik. A Unique Geothermal Experience The Sky Lagoon is unlike any spa you've visited. It immerses you in Iceland's natural beauty while offering relaxation. Positioned only 15 minutes from downtown Reykjavik, this lagoon presents some epic views and a different take than its counterparts. Everything you need to know is on the website here; https://www.skylagoon.com The Sky Lagoon Bathing Ritual - 7 steps I liked this approach - it felt like you weren't being left to your own devices, instead being gently navigated through a rejuvenating process. Step 1 - Laug - lagoon Feel the embrace of geothermal waters. Settle into the natural warmth, lose yourself in the calming energy and soak in the stunning views. Chill and take your time to wash away the excitement. Step 2 Kuldi - Cold Plunge Awaken your senses in the cold plunge, inspired by Iceland’s ancient Snorralaug pool. Cold therapy stimulates your immune system and reduces inflammation, while also providing a natural endorphin rush. Yep - its a wake up alright - you wouldn't want to spend too long in there - but at the same time the rush feels good, it feels healthy. Step 3 - Ylur - Sauna Overlook the vast Atlantic as heat opens your pores, removes toxins and cleanses your skin. The quiet sauna offers space to contemplate and connect with the ocean views through Iceland’s largest single window. Same view as the infinity pool. It's good to take time here and pause to warm back up and reflect. Step 4 - Súld - Cold Mist Feel the touch of Icelandic winds and crisp, cool air in Súld — a revitalizing mist that whispers stories of resilience. Meh - it was standing in the rain which I guess in context works - but it was that misty rain that no one enjoys, and brought back memories of that. Step 5 - Mýkt - Sky Body Scrub It’s time for gentle invigoration. Exfoliate your skin by applying the signature Sky Body Scrub. Slowly, you’ll feel the enlivening effects. Wear the scrub into the steam for the best results. We liked this - again it felt like a deep clean. Step 6 - Gufa - Steam The steam will open your pores once more, allowing your skin to absorb the key therapeutic elements of the Skjól ritual and maximize the hydrating benefits of the Sky Body Scrub. This felt nice, and right. Step 7 - Saft - Elixir Taste the essence of krækiber — the crowberries that dot the lava fields. This wholesome shot stimulates the palate with a profile that embodies the spirit of the land. To be honest I can't remember this step - so it certainly wasn't unpleasant. It's a very different experience than the blue lagoon or the secret lagoon, and certainly something worth trying. Practical Information for Visitors Planning your visit to the Sky Lagoon can enhance your experience. Here are some helpful tips: Location : Just a quick 15-minute drive from downtown Reykjavik, the Sky Lagoon is easy to reach. Reservations : It is wise to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure you get your desired time slot. What to Bring : Bring your own swimsuit and flip-flops for comfort. Opening Hours : The Sky Lagoon is open year-round, but hours may vary by season, so check for the latest updates. Prices : These vary depending on the time of day. We went later in the evening and made considerable savings compared to a day time booking. When in Reykjavik, set aside some time to experience the wonder of the Sky Lagoon. It is a blissful escape that captures the essence of Iceland and delivers an unforgettable retreat from the everyday hustle and bustle. Happy travels!

We discovered this delight of a place by accident whilst taking a different route back from Reykjavik to the cabin that we had rented near the Geysir. I looked up facilities and prices that evening and we returned the next day. This geothermal spa has steam baths, mineral pools, and saunas, paired perfectly with the chance to sample delicious traditional Icelandic lava bread. Whether you live nearby or are visiting from afar, Laugarvatn Fontana is a destination that promises tranquility and delight. It felt local and not too touristy. TL;DR Combine relaxing and rejuvenation with a slice of bread! Refreshing Mineral Pools I enjoyed just lying and chatting in the shallow open air mineral pools - they were maintained at a nice temperature. Sauna Experience This space is thoughtfully designed to be a peaceful retreat where stress melts away. Entering the sauna, the comforting heat envelops you, helping to alleviate tension and promote relaxation. We enjoyed alternating between the sauna and the cool mineral pools, maximising the benefits of both experiences. This mix of temperatures stimulates the body and leaves you feeling both energised and relaxed. Cooking and Tasting Lava Bread After we had dried off we had the unique experience of the rye bread tour and tasting traditional Icelandic lava bread. This local specialty is typically prepared using the natural heat of the earth. The dough is buried in the ground near hot springs, once cooked the result is a dense and tasty bread, perfect when served hot with butter. On average, lava bread requires about 24 hours to cook underground, making it a true labor of love. A Perfect Day at Laugarvatn Fontana Planning a day at Laugarvatn Fontana is straightforward, offering a blend of relaxation and cultural enrichment. Here is the website with everything you need to know; https://www.fontana.is/en After the spa experience - make sure and take time to taste the bread and have a little walk around the town- it isn't large, and at the right time of year the sunset over the majestic landscape is fantastic. The combination of natural beauty and self-care activities makes Laugarvatn Fontana the ideal getaway for relaxation and exploration. Happy travels!