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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 either Geiranger or Hjørundfjord, before returning to Ålesund. This is the information that I've collated from the Hurtigrute and Havila Voyages websites. Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 2 - Variant 1 - Hurtigruten and Havila operate this November to March Arrive Ålesund @ 09:45, Depart @ 20:00 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 Round Voyage & Voyage North -  Day 2 - 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 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 12 / Day 6 - Arrive @ 00:30, Depart @ 01:20 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/1-181828/Norway/Møre%20og%20Romsdal/Ålesund/Ålesund Observations - other than Excursions Ålesund is one of Norway’s most picturesque coastal towns, famed for its Art Nouveau architecture that arose after a dramatic fire in 1904. The town is also known as the gateway to the fjords including trips to Geirangerfjord and Hjørundfjord. It's a steep climb to get the best views, involving a climb up the 418 steep steps up to Mount Aksla, where sweeping panoramas stretch across the islands - its worth the effort, but I was a bit puffed! Walking through the harbour is also nice, soaking up the city’s creative café culture makes Ålesund a perfect blend of urban charm and natural beauty. Eats Lots of restaurants. During the winter we returned to the ship for lunch and then went out for another walk - taking a bit of a different route. Walk There are good footpaths around the city. Ålesund - in one line Ålesund is a busy town - with a great viewing point if you have the energy and time. Updates Here is a google maps from the ship to the view point mentioned above Back to full list of port visits

When we first visited the secret lagoon, I truely thought that there was an element of secret about it. Initially difficult to find, but the signage pointing the way suggested it wasn't so much of a secret, just clever marketing. TL;DR More back to nature than the Blue Lagoon, and less commercial. The Allure of the Secret Lagoon The transiting airport crowd are left behind and the guests that make it here are working at a slower pace, and taking their time as they aren't in Iceland just for the afternoon madly trying to cram in all the experiences. Relaxation Its a big bath. Lots of opprtunity to move around between pockets of cool, warm, hot and really hot waters, while above the surface the air temperatures can be well below zero in winter. Getting out and walking around for a short time is also a worth while experience. It 's lovely when it snows - warm body in the warm waters and head covered with a beanie gathering a layer of snow on top. The Best Time to Visit For me - it has to be after dark in winter - only then do you get the contrast of warm and ice cold. The dark helps slow things down, and focuses you in on the moment, as opposed to what's next. Tips for Your Visit To make the most of your trip to the Secret Lagoon, consider the following tips: Plan for Weather: Check the weather forecast before your visit. Capture the Moment: Don’t forget your camera! Stay Hydrated: Whether swimming or hiking, it’s essential to stay hydrated. Here's a link to the website that has all the information you need; https://secretlagoon.is Conclusion Its definitely worth a visit, and as I remember it - it was more authentic and better priced than the more commericial Blue Lagoon, but did lack its vibrant colours. Happy travels!

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 1 - Depart @ 20:30 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 12 / Day 6 - Arrive @ 14:45 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/1-92416/Norway/Vestland/Bergen/Bergen Observations - other than Excursions Not exactly a port stop but as the route starts and finishes in Bergen - it's likely that you will spend some time here. Bergen, known as the “Gateway to the Fjords,” is packed with charm and history. Start by wandering along and through the colourful wooden houses of Bryggen, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you’ll find cozy cafés, pubs, galleries, and boutiques. In the late afternoon - it's good idea to take a trip up the modern Fløibanen funicular up Mount Fløyen for sweeping views of the city as the sun sets. We chose to walk back down - look at the map - it wasn't tough. The lively Fish Market is perfect for sampling fresh seafood. There are endless restaurants, bars and cafes as per any big city. Being the most southernly it is likely to be the mildest weather of any port stops - it rained a lot when we were there. Eats Lot and lots of restaurants Walk There are good footpaths around the city. Depending on your plans for arriving and departing from Bergen - you can have plenty of shore time - providing a good opportunity to take a longer walk. Bergen - in one line Bustling city - with plenty of places to visit, restaurants and cafes - you won't be bored. Happy travels! Back to full list of port visits

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 2 - Arrive @ 02:45, Depart @ 03:00 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 12 / Day 6 - Arrive @ 08:15, Depart @ 08:30 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/1-158557/Norway/Vestland/Kinn/Florø Observations - other than Excursions The 15min stop northbound, and 15min stop southbound doesn't provide a long enough opportunity to get off the ship and visit. Eats N/A Walk N/A Florø - in one line Florø is only applicable to Port to Port travellers. Back to full list of port visits

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 2 - Arrive @ 05:15, Depart @ 05:30 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 12 / Day 6 - Arrive @ 05:45, Depart @ 06:00 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/1-166893/Norway/Vestland/Kinn/Måløy Observations - other than Excursions The 15min stop northbound, and 15min stop southbound doesn't provide a long enough opportunity to get off the ship and visit. Eats N/A Walk N/A Måløy - in one line Måløy is only applicable to Port to Port travellers. Back to full list of port visits

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 2 - Arrive @ 08:20, Depart @ 08:30 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 12 / Day 6 - Arrive @ 02:35, Depart @ 02:45 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/1-2608291/Norway/Vestland/Stad/Torvik Observations - other than Excursions The 10min stop northbound, and 10min stop southbound doesn't provide a long enough opportunity to get off the ship and visit. Eats N/A Walk N/A Torvik - in one line Torvik is only applicable to Port to Port travellers. Back to full list of port visits

Here's our draft itinerary for visiting Sapporo in late January 2026. We haven't been to Sapporo before but have heard its name as a consequence of the Sapporo beer brand. We also expect it to be cold in January - potentially remaining below freezing for the duration of our visit. We only have 2 full days and 2 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 Sapporo Welcome to Sapporo! After a short flight from Tokyo, we'll be landing at Chitose (Sapporo) Airport, at 13:10, collecting the bags, we'll be heading for the hotel, to make the most of our first day. We intend to take the Rapid Airport train to Sapporo Station (35mins), and then from there it's a manageable 10min walk to the ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo hotel where we'll be staying for the 2 nights. Remainder of Day 1 We may be fighting some jet lag as the result of our overnight flight from London - so we will be doing our best to adjust to Japanese time as soon as we can. I can't imagine the cold will help. We are centrally located in Sapporo so I'm expecting that there will be planty of distractions - even on a Sunday afternoon & evening. We will try to cover off Odori Park, Clock Tower, and Red Brick Office whilst there is still light. We'll give the sea urchin a miss at Nijo Market, but will finish the evening by trying a ramen in Susukino. Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Beer Beer Museum I've known of the beer too long to pass up the opportunity of a brewery / museum visit. It seems that the right thing to do is to also savour the regional specialty: grilled Genghis Khan  (lamb barbecue) at the adjacent brewery restaurant. That sounds very much me. Depending on weather - we may book a sushi making class for a couple of hours just outside the city. This will bring us in out of the cold, and would be an interesting diversion. The one available on Viator is highly rated and has the option to be picked up, and dropped off near our hotel. Sticking with the beer theme, I think I'd like to try to enjoy an Izakaya evenings. We failed to do this on our last visit to Japan - so maybe we will get some recommendations from the hotel, before heading out as there seem to be a few options close to the hotel. Not having done it before - it appears to be a casual social atmosphere - ordering a variety of small, sharable dishes - which is a great way to try food that we might not immediately love - bit like tapas I imagine. Day 3: Last-Minute Shopping and Departure Morning Shopping at Shinsaibashi We are bringing huge bags with us - so will spend time to get some shopping in. We'll take some time on the final morning to do some shopping close to the hotel. Grabbing a quick lunch before we finish. Departure from Sapporo After an early lunch, we'll grab our bags from the hotel around 14:00, and make our way back to the airport. Travelling back to the airport is an experience all of its own, and I don't want to be rushed. That's it It now feels like not a lot of time, but in late January, I'm not expecting there to be a lot of activity - so a perfect first stop to allow us to adjust to the time difference, and see the little that there is to see. 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!

The Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa located in Iceland, is a destination that captivates the imagination of travellers from around the globe. Known for its stunning azure waters, and rich mineral content. Is it a tourist trap or worth visiting? TL;DR Whilst it is most certainly a tourist trap, it is so accessible even if just transiting via Iceland, and it is what most of us knew about Iceland before we visited. A Brief History of the Blue Lagoon The Blue Lagoon was formed in 1976, when the nearby geothermal power plant began to utilize the hot water from the earth. The excess water, rich in minerals, created a lagoon that quickly became a popular spot for locals seeking relaxation and healing. When I first realised that it wasn't a naturally occurring phenomenon, but instead a consequence of placing the geothermal power plant - it sort of took the shine off. I quickly got over it. Over the years, the Blue Lagoon has evolved into a world-renowned spa, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe. The lagoon's unique blue color is due to the high silica content in the water, which reflects sunlight in a way that creates a stunning visual effect. This natural phenomenon, combined with the surrounding lava fields and mountains, makes the Blue Lagoon a truly enchanting destination. The Healing Properties of the Waters One of the main draws of the Blue Lagoon is its mineral-rich waters, which are believed to have numerous health benefits. The water is heated by geothermal energy, reaching temperatures of around 37-39°C (98-102°F). This warmth, combined with the minerals present in the water, creates a soothing environment that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation. Silica, one of the key minerals found in the lagoon, is known for its skin-healing properties. Many visitors apply the white silica mud to their skin, which can help to improve skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. Additionally, the lagoon's waters contain sulfur, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for those with joint pain or other inflammatory conditions. I've a few issues with the amount of people bathing in the waters and whether the natural flow of water keeps the place nice and clean. I'm sure it does or there would be an outcry. The Unique Experience of Bathing in the Lagoon Bathing in the Blue Lagoon is an experience unlike any other. As you immerse yourself in the warm, mineral-rich waters, you are surrounded by stunning natural beauty. The contrast of the bright blue water against the black lava rocks creates a surreal atmosphere that is both calming and invigorating. The contrast of the cold air and the warm waters on the most wintery of days is pretty amazing. Even better when its snowing. For a more emersive (and pricey experience) visitors can enjoy various amenities while at the lagoon, including saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation areas. The lagoon also offers a range of treatments and services, such as massages and skincare treatments, allowing guests to enhance their experience further. Tips for Visiting the Blue Lagoon To make the most of your visit to the Blue Lagoon, consider the following tips: Book in Advance : The Blue Lagoon is a popular destination, and tickets can sell out quickly, especially during peak seasons. It is advisable to book your tickets online in advance to secure your spot. Arrive Early : Arriving early allows you to enjoy the lagoon before it becomes crowded. Early morning visits can provide a more tranquil experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the serene environment. Bring Your Own Towel : While the lagoon provides towels for rent, bringing your own can save you some money. Additionally, having your own towel can be more convenient. Take Care of Your Hair : The mineral-rich waters can be harsh on hair. It is recommended to apply conditioner or oil to your hair before entering the lagoon to protect it from damage. Stay Hydrated : The warm waters can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water during your visit. The lagoon has facilities where you can purchase refreshments. The Surrounding Landscape The Blue Lagoon is not just about the water; the surrounding landscape is equally captivating. The lagoon is situated in a lava field, providing a dramatic backdrop of rugged terrain and volcanic rock formations. The contrast between the bright blue water and the dark lava creates a stunning visual experience that is perfect for photography, and there is loads and loads of steam rising. Last Thoughts As a tourist trap - it's a pretty good one. It is bucket list stuff, and the memory does sit with you a long time. You also get a reference point for other Lagoons and rivers to compare to. Would I go back - yes, to take a friend that hasn't been there before, but not on my own. Happy travels!

Reynisdrangar, an extraordinary natural wonder on Iceland's southern coast, pulls in travellers and nature lovers alike. The towering basalt sea stacks, similar to the giants causeway in Northern Ireland, rise dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, creating a breathtaking landscape that feels both enchanting and majestic. TL;DR If driving along the south coast road - this is an interesting stop to make. The Geological Formation of Reynisdrangar These stunning sea stacks are made of basalt columns formed from rapid volcanic activity. When lava cools and shrinks, it creates the unique hexagonal shapes you see today. The tallest stack reaches an impressive height of 66 meters (217 feet). Over thousands of years, the relentless waves of the Atlantic have eroded softer surrounding rock, sculpting these striking formations. The contrast between the bold columns and the crashing waves onto the black sand offers a remarkable scene that appeals to all who pass by. Visiting Reynisdrangar: Best Times and Tips Timing your visit to Reynisdrangar can greatly enhance your experience. The ideal months are from June to August when temperatures are warmer and the sunlight stretches long into the evening. In contrast, winter transforms the landscape beautifully, as snow blankets the area, creating a serene charm. Be careful However, be cautious of "sneaker waves," which can crash unexpectedly and pose a real danger to life. Nearby Attractions to Explore While Reynisdrangar stands out, don't miss the nearby attractions. A 10-minute drive away is Vik, a charming town known for its beautiful vistas and welcoming atmosphere. Vik also offers local shops, cozy cafes, and comfortable accommodations. Happy travels!

When visiting Iceland over the years - we have always stopped by this place to have a bit of a wander, and pick up some tomato sauce for pasta that evening. The Friðheimar Tomato Farm is more than an attraction; it's a delightful working attraction and definitely worth a quick stop off. TL;DR There is ample parking, an opportunity to enter one of the greenhouses - where there is a restaurant, shop and tomato vines. Its fantastic to see how the tomatoes that need a warm mediterranean climate are grown in such a harsh climate. It's not simple - as heat, light, water and bees are combined carefully to make growing a success. A Taste of Freshness At Friðheimar , tomatoes truly shine. Tomato based lunches are served in the restaurant, the shop sells an excellent tomoato sauce - perfect on its own with pasta. At Friðheimar, the principle has been to grow tomatoes with optimum taste quality, while maintaining eco-friendly standards. The tomatoes are now grown all year, using state-of-the-art technology in an environmentally-friendly way. Green energy, pure water and biological pest controls make for tasty and healthy tomatoes. Each greenhouse is managed for heat, humidity, carbon dioxide and lighting, together with water and fertiliser. Dining Experience There are many restaurants based in the same greenhouse where the food was grown - but that is what you've got here. The temperature is just right as well - especially when contrasted with a cold Icelandic day.. One standout menu item is the tomato soup, a seasonal favourite served hot, making it the perfect dish for Icelandic days that turn chilly. Parking Made Easy Parking is easy - with a large car park near the road, and then a short walk down to the green houses. The Buzz About Bees @ Friðheimar On our first visit we were surprised to see the bees - but having read up on it - it is all so logical now. Understanding the essential role bees play in pollination, the farm integrates beekeeping into its agricultural practices. The bee hives are not just educational; it’s a favourite spot for children and adults alike, who can observe the bees in action. Friðheimar’s joke that the bees are staff. They have around 1200 bumble bees, working to pollinate the flowers on the tomato plants so that the crops will be good. Each bee can pollinate 2,000 flowers per day. Don't drive by - call in I promise you - just a short visit will be very enjoyable. Happy travels!

When you think about adventure, few places ignite the imagination like the northernmost of anything - and where better to start in a town - hoping it has a pub and or a brewery. These remarkable establishments not only provide a peek into the culture and lifestyle of their communities but also offer thrilling experiences for those ready to brave the cold. In this post, we will explore the northernmost town, pub, and brewery on Earth. TL;DR Spoiler alert - they are all in Longyearbyen - Svalbard The Northernmost Town: Longyearbyen (The town) Alert, located in the Arctic region of Canada, holds the title of the northernmost permanently inhabited place on Earth. Situated at an impressive latitude of 82.5° N, this small community mainly consists of military personnel and researchers enduring extreme conditions throughout the year. Currently, about 5 to 6 people live there permanently. Its clearly not a town - so doesn't win. Longyearbyen, on Svalbard, at 78° N with around 2500 inhabitants, and lots of tourists certainly is a town, and so it takes first place. The Northernmost Pub: Barentz Gastropub, Svalbard Ignore everything else you might read on the internet - this is the winner. Barentz (within the Radisson Blu Polar Hotel) offers a more laid-back pub-style experience with local craft beers, hearty dishes like burgers, pizzas, fish & chips, and reindeer stew — ideal for a casual unwind after exploring Longyearbyen. Even though the bar is situated within a chain hotel it is a surprisingly nice place for a beer or three. Located on the edge of Longyearbyen puts it just a matter of metres ahead of the local competition. The Northernmost Brewery: Svalbard Bryggeri Using 2,000-year-old glacier water from the nearby Bogerbreen glacier in it's brewing process, it produces a range of beers (IPA, stout, pilsner, etc.) and exports small quantities to mainland Norway. Until 2014, brewing beer was actually illegal in Svalbard due to old laws from 1928. The founder, Robert Johansen, lobbied successfully to change the law. One trip - 3 Records Pack your bags and book that plane ticket if you want to complete 3 unique experiences in just one trip. PS - here is another bonus record below. Happy travels!

When it comes to witnessing the breathtaking Northern Lights, Iceland is often mentioned. It has become synonymous with this spectacular natural phenomenon. However, I'd suggest - based on personal experience that there’s another and better contender that deserves its fair share of attention: Tromso, Norway. TL;DR Tromso should be recognized as a premier destination for Northern Lights enthusiasts, often overshadowed by its Icelandic rival. The Allure of the Northern Lights The Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis, are a breathtaking natural light display seen mainly in high-latitude regions. They occur due to the interaction between solar wind and the Earth's magnetic field, creating vibrant colours that on a good night dance across the night sky. While Iceland is celebrated for its accessibility to these lights, Tromso has proven, to me anyway, as a much better bet - having been successful 2 of 4 visits, against a 1 of 5 vists to Iceland. Tromso: A Hidden Gem Tromso's location above the Arctic Circle extends its Northern Lights season, typically running from late September to early April. This longer viewing window increases your chances of witnessing the aurora. Statistically, Tromso offers up to 80% of clear nights during this period, compared to Iceland's 60%. Accessibility and Convenience Tromso is easily reachable, with direct flights from major European cities like Oslo, London, and Frankfurt. Once in Tromso, visitors can choose from various tour operators that offer Northern Lights excursions. These range from guided tours to self-drive adventures. Many of these tours include knowledgeable guides who share insights into the science and folklore surrounding the aurora, elevating the overall experience. They will literally drive miles during the night - speaking to colleagues to find a good spot for viewing. Optimal Viewing Conditions While both Iceland and Tromso boast opportunities to see the Northern Lights, Tromso's geographical advantages set it apart. The city is situated in a region known for relatively stable weather patterns, which leads to clearer skies—crucial for aurora viewing since clouds can obstruct the view. Discover Tromso's Wonders For those in search of a more personal and immersive encounter with the aurora borealis, Tromso is the hidden gem waiting to be explored. So, gear up and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in the Arctic wonderland of Tromso, where the Northern Lights eagerly await your arrival. Happy travels!