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Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 5 - Arrive @ 04:35, Depart @ 04:50 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 9 / Day 3 - Arrive @ 10:45, Depart @ 11:00 Climate Midnight Sun - 20 May - 22 July Polar Night - 03 December - 11 January Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-290150/Norway/Nordland/Andøy/Risøyhamn 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 Risøyhamn - in one line Risøyhamn is only applicable to Port to Port travellers.

When you're on holiday - you have to eat. One of the things I find most enjoyable is finding great restaurants and eating my way through the local food scene. However, finding the best restaurants can be difficult, and shouldn't be left to chance, nor should it become all consuming. With countless options at your fingertips, how can you ensure you're dining at the top local spots? in this short guide I will share pretty obvious practical tips on discovering great restaurants whilst on holiday. It isn't rocket science - just applying a tried and tested methodology that tends to work most of the time. TL;DR Don't leave eating out on holiday to chance. Follow my advice to find good restaurants to visit whilst on holiday. Research Before You Go Before you set off on your holiday, doing your homework is vital. A liitle research using your individual preferences will pay dividends. Whether it's locating the best places for regional specialties, or well priced lunches or tourist traps to avoid. All can significantly enhance your eating experience and help you pinpoint restaurants that will work for you. Make a list of restaurants that catch your interest. Aim for those that are not only highly rated but have numerous positive reviews. This research lays a good base for your dining adventures. Use Google Maps for Restaurant Discovery Google Maps is a powerful tool for finding nearby restaurants while on holiday. Here’s how to leverage it effectively: Search for Restaurants : Click or type “restaurants” into the search bar, and Google Maps will display a list of options nearby. You can filter results based on ratings (look for 4 stars or higher), distance, and cuisine type. Check Ratings and Reviews : Each restaurant listing comes with a star rating and user reviews. A restaurant that has a high rating (4.5 stars) with a significant number of reviews (200+) suggests a consistent dining experience. Explore Photos : Google Maps users upload photos of their dining experiences. Check these images to get a better feel for the restaurant and the dishes they serve. Website : Click through to the restaurants website or Facebook page if they have one, to locate their menu. Check Opening Times : Always verify the restaurant’s hours before heading out. You’d hate to arrive only to find it closed, especially if it's a top choice. Leverage TripAdvisor for In-Depth Insights TripAdvisor is another excellent resource for discovering great dining options while on holiday. Here’s how you can use it effectively: Read Detailed Reviews : Unlike Google Maps, TripAdvisor often features comprehensive reviews. Seek comments about specific dishes, service quality, and the overall experience. Check Rankings : TripAdvisor ranks restaurants based on user feedback. Look for the top-rated spots in your area, as these will likely provide memorable dining experiences. Check Distribution of Reviews : TripAdvisor provides a graphical representation of number of Excellent, Good, Average, Poor and Terrible ratings - which works well for me. Combining Google Maps and TripAdvisor To increase your chances of finding fantastic restaurants, combine insights from both Google Maps and TripAdvisor. Here’s a straightforward approach: Start with Google Maps : Use it to discover restaurants near your location. Focus on those with high ratings and numerous positive reviews. Cross-Reference with TripAdvisor : Once you’ve narrowed down your options, check the relevant ratings and reviews on TripAdvisor for more in-depth insights. Look for Consistency : If a restaurant boasts high ratings on both platforms, it’s likely a safe bet. Consider Local Recommendations: Don’t hesitate to ask locals for their favourite dining spots. The car parking attendant in Lecce was very eager to make lunch recommendations when I asked - even writing down the names whilst providing good walking directions. Eat Local: Avoid Multinational Chains When travelling, immersing yourself in local culture through food is one of the most enriching experiences. While multinational chains offer familiar options, they mostly miss the authentic flavors that local cuisine provides. Instead, seek out local diners, street food vendors, and family-run restaurants. These places typically serve traditional dishes prepared with regional ingredients, offering a genuine taste of the area. In Italy, for instance, try freshly made homemade pasta at a traditional trattoria instead of dried pasta from a chain restaurant. If you do find yourself at a multinational chain, consider ordering the country-specific meal offered. For example, at a McDonald’s in Japan, you might find a Teriyaki Burger, which is a fun twist on a familiar brand. Make Reservations When Necessary Some restaurants fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. If you have a specific place in mind, it's advisable to make a reservation in advance. Many restaurants now offer online booking, which saves you time, avoids that difficult phone call if you don't speak the same language, and ensures you won't miss out. Be Open to New Experiences While having a plan is essential, staying open to spontaneity can lead to delightful surprises. Sometimes the best dining experiences arise from wandering past or into a place that catches your eye. I've joined queues before not really knowing what is at the end of it - one memorable queue was in Gouda in the Netherlands, where I walked out with a delicious turkish pizza. I'd never had one before then. We always visit the same shop when we are passing through Gouda - never tastes as good as that first one though! And Finally.... Finding excellent restaurants while on holiday doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right research upfront, using apps like Google Maps and TripAdvisor, and focusing on local eats, you can enrich your dining experiences and create lasting memories. Make sure to verify opening hours, pay attention to the reviews, and remain open to spontaneous culinary adventures. With these tips in mind, you're well-prepared to discover the best local gems during your travels. So in Summary Research restaurants before your trip. Use Google Maps to locate nearby restaurants. Check ratings and reviews on Google Maps. Explore TripAdvisor ratings for more detailed insights. Avoid multinational chains unless trying a regional dish. Make reservations for popular restaurants. Be open to unexpected dining experiences. Happy Travels!

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 5 - Arrive @ 02:55, Depart @ 03:10 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 9 / Day 3 - Arrive @ 12:30, Depart @ 13:00 Climate Midnight Sun - 23 May - 23 July Polar Night - 30 November - 12 January Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-285703/Norway/Nordland/Sortland/Sortland Observations - other than Excursions The 15min 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 Sortland - in one line Sortland is only applicable to Port to Port travellers.

This is more a point in time for me to look back at, rather than anything else. So feel free to bail now. When I started out with this blog, I said I would continue to review whether 'it's working for me' or not. Two months in and I'm still not sure what my yardsticks are to measure whether it is working for me or not, but I do feel these are developing in the background as I learn more. Suffice to say - I am enjoying it as a learning experience for now anyway, and if nothing else the quality of photos that I take is improving. TL;DR I started this blog on 16th July 2025. Since then I've learnt a lot, and made some errors. We are now back into holiday season for the retired - so I'll need something to do whilst sunning myself. My Self Assessed Report - Improving, but Can Do Better That's the overall assessment that I'm giving myself for the second month - I've sparked interest and I'm now getting 200+ websites visits consistently each day. The second month has been filled with learning, acting on feedback of what works and what doesn't. I've found my feet with the tools that I'm using and looking at improvements elsewhere.. What Went Well Content Creation I've got a good set of content on the Norwegian Coastal Route, which is served by Havila Voyages and Hurtigruten. These posts have proved popular. I've also been writing up plans for Japan in January. We have trips planned for Singapore, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as Guernsey and Belfast all before the end of the year - so I will start to focus a little more on the planning of those. Engagement Stats (after 2 months) With the grades that I've awarded myself in this report. Facebook - B The facebook tools that I've now got tell me loads of stuff. I need to tune in more to what they actually mean - but currently I'm tracking two numbers; Views (number of times your content was played or displayed) - 733k - this is over x5 of the first month - I don't expect that this growth will continue at the same rate. Engagement (number of reactions, comments, shares and clicks) - appears to be at 36k - x4 of month 1.. Reach seems to be an important number (so will start to track that) - 214k My best post this month was again a picture - this time of the icebergs in Iceland. Much of the content and interaction continues to be buried in specific interest groups. I'm going to start to pay more attention to number of followers. I've currently got 102 - which is pitifully low, and that includes an initial boost from friends and family. Instagram - C Lots to learn - A good post is difficult and takes a younger eye. I'm continuing to be trained and will seek something more formal via youtube when I have more time. On Monday - I went to a free class at my local apple store - I left surprised to what the camera on my phone can do. Website - C Post views 10,197 in the last 30 days - so x2 of month one. Youtube - F I've abandoned this. I haven't actually a clue whether these results are good or bad, but they are trending in the right direction on a monthly basis. I think month 3 will probably be a good indicator. I found this graphic, sessions by location, to be a cool insight to who is reading - on the left is month 1, month 2 on the right; SEO Optimisation Still don't really understand SEO strategies, but traffic from search engines is increasing - so again trending in the right direction. More work needed here. Challenges Faced Time Management I've found a groove - and managing my time effectively Technical Issues Less issues - just remembering to add the relevant groups and hash tags Lessons Learned Understanding the Audience Audiences are split by interest groups. Norwegian Coastal Route is a good engaged, specific auduence and I've Maintained good engagement. Finding similar for the vast numbers of people interested in Japan and Iceland is more difficult. I'm told flexibility and writing for your audience is key. I'm not sure of my goals yet - so need to figure this one out. Goals For Month 3 Maintain a manageable pace Maintain views, engagement and reach - in the absence of other useful metrics Identify further metrics that matter to me - I think these are probably interesting and useful, together with what I'm gaining in terms of good advice for my own travels. Double number of followers That's all for now. Happy travels!

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 5 - Arrive @ 01:30, Depart @ 01:40 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 9 / Day 3 - Arrive @ 14:15, Depart @ 15:15 Climate Midnight Sun - 24 May - 21 July Polar Night - 6 December - 8 January Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-285245/Norway/Nordland/Hadsel/Stokmarknes Observations - other than Excursions With the 60mins southbound available - we have taken two different walks on our trips. The first was up to the bridge to get a good vantage point and view. There is a footpath, separated from the road traffic. We also have walked in the opposite direction along the shore - nice wide footpath with lovely views of the water. Eats We didn't stop to eat - but there were outlets open, and a supermarket for any snacks Walk There are excellent footpaths around the city. Stokmarknes - in one line Stokmarknes - Nice small town with a bridge allowing commanding views.

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 4 - Arrive @ 21:20, Depart @ 22:15 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 9 / Day 3 - Arrive @ 18:30, Depart @ 20:30 Climate Midnight Sun - 28 May - 14 July Polar Night - 7 December - 5 January Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-276917/Norway/Nordland/Vågan/Svolvær Observations - other than Excursions The port stop at Svolvær is 55mins northbound - but its late at night - so shops are closed, and there isn't really time to do much else than a quick walk around. Southbound, the stop is two hours, early in the evening. We went for a walk along the harbour and over the bridge to a little island. As it was dark there wasn't a lot to see - but the bars and restaurants all looked lovely and cozy. Eats We didn't stop to eat - but there were outlets open. Walk There are excellent footpaths around the city. Svolvær - in one line Svolvær - this looked like a lovely port town for a long weekend.

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 4 - Arrive @ 19:15, Depart @ 19:40 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 9 / Day 3 - Arrive @ 22:15, Depart @ 22:30 Climate Midnight Sun - 25 May - 17 July Polar Night - 7 December - 5 January Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-276799/Norway/Nordland/Vestvågøy/Stamsund Observations - other than Excursions The 25min 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 Stamsund - in one line Stamsund is only applicable to Port to Port travellers.

Svalbard, a remote archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, captivates visitors with its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. But it's rich history is equally intriguing. At the heart of this history lies the mining industry, which not only shaped the economy but also influenced the culture and social behaviors of the island's residents. One intriguing local custom is removing shoes before entering shops, bars, and restaurants. A Brief History of Mining in Svalbard The discovery of coal drew international companies to the region, leading to the establishment of bustling mining towns like Longyearbyen and Barentsburg. At the height of the mining boom, these towns accommodated approximately 3,000 workers from diverse backgrounds, contributing to a vibrant economy and a unique blend of cultures. For several decades, the mining industry provided stability and growth. However, fluctuating coal demand and increasing environmental concerns resulted in the closure of many mines. Between the 1960s and 1980s, Svalbard's population decreased by about 50%, forcing a shift toward tourism as a new economic driver. Today, while mining remains part of Svalbard's identity, tourism has become it's lifeblood, attracting thousands of visitors each year keen on discovering the archipelago's beauty and history. The Connection Between Mining and Shoeless Etiquette The origin of Svalbard's shoeless etiquette can be traced back to the miners’ lifestyle. Working in tough conditions, miners often came home with boots covered in dirt, coal dust, and other debris. It became common practice to remove shoes before entering living quarters to maintain cleanliness. Not everywhere continues to practice this tradition - but there certainly are a few places - most aptly - The Coal Miners Cabins which has a specially designated areas for shoe storage, making it easy for visitors to follow this local custom. The Modern-Day Significance of Shoeless Etiquette Today, the practice of taking off shoes before entering places has evolved into a cherished local tradition. It serves as a reminder of Svalbard's mining past while promoting cleanliness and comfort. Practical Tips for Visitors If you're planning a trip to Svalbard, embracing local customs, particularly shoeless etiquette, is vital for a rewarding experience. Consider these practical tips: Be Prepared : When visiting shops, bars, or restaurants, anticipate the need to remove your shoes. Respect the Norms : Embracing this practice not only shows respect for the community but also enriches your experience. Taking off your shoes not only contributes to a clean environment but can also create a more relaxed setting, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Svalbard's charm. As you explore Svalbard's beautiful landscapes and remnants of its mining past, remember that every custom, including the simple act of taking off your shoes, has a story. Happy travels!

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 4 - Arrive @ 13:05, Depart @ 15:20 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 10 / Day 4 - Arrive @ 02:30, Depart @ 03:30 Climate Midnight Sun - 01 June to 13 July Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-269359/Norway/Nordland/Bodø/Bodø Observations - other than Excursions The port stop at Bodø is a generous 2hrs and 15mins northbound, which is ample time to work off lunch and have an explore of the town. On our most recent trip we got off the ship and took a walk with a few detours up towards the airport. Again it was a pleasant walk through the housing - and allowed for us to get more of a feel for the large town. Eats We didn't stop to eat - as we'd just had lunch. Walk There are excellent footpaths around the city. Bodø - in one line Bodø - picturesque and quiet - no lasting impression.

One of Iceland's most alluring features for me has always been its geothermal lagoons. These unique and magical spots, that aren't available in Ireland or England, provide a fantastic experience for the many visitors to Iceland. TL;DR I compare four of the most popular lagoons, that I have visited over the years: the Blue Lagoon, Sky Lagoon, Secret Lagoon, and Laugarvatn Fontana. Each destination has its own distinct charm and array of offerings, making it important to know what to expect. Spoiler - I finish though with a bit of a surprise. Blue Lagoon: The Iconic Experience The Blue Lagoon is arguably the most famous geothermal spa in Iceland, apparently attracting over 1.2 million visitors annually. Nestled in a lava field near Grindavík, its vibrant azure waters which are a run off from a thermo power station are rich in minerals, which are believed to have healing properties for the skin. This lagoon offers luxurious amenities, including a range of spa treatments, a gourmet restaurant, and a bar serving local delicacies. For instance, visitors can pamper themselves with massages or rejuvenating facials while enjoying the warm, mineral-enriched waters. The lagoon's striking setting, framed by black lava rocks and lush moss, creates a striking atmosphere that is hard to match. Its proximity to the airport, means that the Blue Lagoon can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. It is wise to make reservations in advance. The entrance fee is higher than that of other lagoons - varying considerably depending on the overall experience. https://www.retiredcormac.co.uk/post/the-blue-lagoon-tourist-trap Sky Lagoon: A New Contender Sky Lagoon, a fresh addition to Iceland's geothermal spa offerings, is conveniently located just a short drive from Reykjavik. This lagoon features a stunning infinity edge that creates a seamless view of the Atlantic Ocean. We visited in the dark - so missed that. One of Sky Lagoon's standout highlights is its unique seven-step wellness ritual. This experience includes a variety of wellness treatments like steam rooms, a refreshing cold plunge, and tranquil relaxation areas. The lagoon’s design emphasizes harmony with nature, featuring natural wood elements and panoramic views, though it's clearly man made. Despite being newer, Sky Lagoon offers a more personalised experience than the Blue Lagoon and tends to be less crowded. The entrance fee is a little lower, making it a more affordable option for travellers seeking relaxation without overspending. https://www.retiredcormac.co.uk/post/the-sky-lagoon-in-reykjavik Secret Lagoon: A Hidden Gem For those longing for a true Icelandic experience, the Secret Lagoon is an absolute must-see. Situated in the small village of Flúðir, this lagoon is recognised as one of the oldest geothermal spas in the country, showcasing a more rustic vibe. The Secret Lagoon features natural hot springs where steam rises dramatically from the water. Unlike more commercialised lagoons, it boasts more of a sense of tradition and connection to nature. The entrance fee here is much more affordable,, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, keep in mind the facilities are more basic compared to the Blue Lagoon and Sky Lagoon, so be ready for a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. https://www.retiredcormac.co.uk/post/the-not-so-secret-lagoon Laugarvatn Fontana: A Family-Friendly Option If you're traveling with the family, Laugarvatn Fontana is a fantastic geothermal spa that promotes a friendly atmosphere. Conveniently located along Iceland's Golden Circle, this lagoon features several hot pools, steam rooms, and a sauna, all with beautiful views of Lake Laugarvatn. Visitors can enjoy freshly baked bread cooked using geothermal heat, adding a unique touch to their experience. The lagoon is generally less crowded than the Blue Lagoon, making it suitable for families or anyone looking to relax without the hustle and bustle. Entrance fees are much more reasonable, and the well-maintained facilities make it a solid option for families or those searching for a casual experience. https://www.retiredcormac.co.uk/post/relax-and-rejuvenate-at-laugarvatn-fontana Making the Right Choice for You Selecting the best lagoon in Iceland ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the experience you want. If luxury and an iconic ambiance are your priorities, the Blue Lagoon remains unmatched, even though it can be crowded and pricey. For an intimate setting with breathtaking views and wellness experiences, Sky Lagoon is an excellent choice. If authenticity and affordability are essential, the Secret Lagoon serves as a hidden gem that delivers a genuine taste of Icelandic culture. Lastly, Laugarvatn Fontana is perfect for family trips or those wishing for a laid-back atmosphere with cultural elements. Each lagoon offers something unique, ensuring that there is an ideal spot for everyone. Whether you seek luxury, tranquility, authenticity, or family-friendly fun, Iceland's lagoons promise an unforgettable experience. You'll enjoy the rejuvenating waters of this stunning island at each. If you are adventurous, whilst not a lagoon, but a similar experience - I think my favourite is Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River. https://www.retiredcormac.co.uk/post/reykjadalur-hot-spring-thermal-river

Schedules Round Voyage & Voyage North - Day 4 - Arrive @ 10:00, Depart @ 10:10 Round Voyage & Voyage South - Day 10 / Day 4 - Arrive @ 06:25, Depart @ 06:35 Climate Midnight Sun - 2 June - 10 July Polar Night - Not applicable Here is a good link to the Norwegian weather service. https://www.yr.no/en/forecast/daily-table/1-264081/Norway/Nordland/Meløy/Ørnes 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 Ørnes - in one line Ørnes is only applicable to Port to Port travellers.

Here's our draft itinerary for visiting Tokyo in late January 2026. We have been to Tokyo before and loved it. As it's our last stop on our Japanese tour - we want to ensure that it's a truly memorable experience. We're expecting cool temperatures and dry weather - which is more than fine - if that is the weather come the time that we are travelling. We have 4 full days and 5 nights - and want to pack in as much as possible without packing in too much that we don't take time to soak up the experience to the full. Day 1: Arrival and Initial Exploration Arrival in Tokyo Welcome to Tokyo! After a short flight from Okinawa, we'll be landing at Haneda (Tokyo) Airport, at 16:00, 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 will take the train/metro to the hotel - deciding the route on the day. The Knot Hotel in Shinjuku is a bit of a walk from the station - but I'm sure we can manage, we'd probably be there before we could work out what bus to take to get us closer. Remainder of Day 1 With a bit of luck we will have made good progress and be ready to get back out again for dinner around 19:00 that evening. We plan to stay close to the hotel - so remaining in the Shinjuku area. I'd like to go to the 45 floor observation deck within the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and try a little food and drink in the many restaurants and bars in the immediate area. We won't bother with the robot restaurant this time around. As quirky as it is - it feels like something you do only once. I would like to try a Guiness in the Dubliners Irish Pub, or one of the other recommendations I got recently - Beer Bomb and Watering hole, before turning in for the night. Day 2: Cultural Immersion & Experiences Stroll, Sushi, Shopping and Sumo After a local breakfast, we'll plan a walk through the back streets of Tokyo - just to soak up some sights, aiming to do around 5km before stopping for a well deserved lunch in one of the many sushi restaurants - taking our time to get a good range of different food that will take us through to dinner in the evening. Shopping is next on the agenda - we don't want to leave this too late in the schedule, through I think we will probably take another go at it before we leave. Unfortunately we land on the day after the first sumo show of the year ends. So it was a toss up between watching a serious training session, or opting for something more touristy to include dinner. We chose the latter - we just need to book it closer to the time. Day 3: Mystery Tour Leaving this free for son to arrange Day 4: Last Day in Japan Breakfast and then a slower start today as we'll be packing to return home. For lunch today we are going to try either of two experiences that I found on Viator - " Easy Ramen making experience" or "Takoyaki making experience". I'm fine with either. We'll spend the last afternoon doing any remaining shopping - pretty much anywhere in Tokyo, before returning to the hotel late afternoon or early evening and grabbing our bags to relocate to a hotel out near the airport. There are a few restaurants near the hotel that I've already identified that we may give a go, otherwise we will eat in the hotel - which is Japanese rather than international Day 5: Early Departure Departure from Tokyo We will skip breakfast, as we will be getting up at 06:00 for a 06:30 move to the airport. We'll get breakfast in one of the lounges in the airport. I'm hoping the early start will prompt a bit of sleeping on the way back to the UK and help with reseting our body clocks. We fly at 09:35, landing in the UK at 15:40. That's really it... I think Tokyo will be a blast - it's impossible to be bored there surely - if you are prepared to give anything a go. 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!