The Fjords of Norway: I am back

Over twelve days we spent traveling northward from Bergen, Norway to the border of Russia. We visited some 60 small to large fjords. On a new ship set up to carry cargo to remote places that also was a Class-A hybrid vessel,  We saw what can not be seen from larger ships. Also, there was a dozen or more venues we were able to visit locals and see special properties. We went to the top of mountains by tram and small places by bus. We walked some as well. We stood at the border of the Soviet Union and waved to their employees. Before and after the voyage we stayed in Bergen for four days. It is the first stop on the way north. The fjords of Norway can be compared to my happy place of the Dolomites of Northern Italy. The following will be a view of both the fjords and other places in Europe.

Taking some time off -more to write about here

This is a small cruise ship and ferry. It visits Norwegian fjords from Bergen in the south to the Russian border beyond the Arctic Circle. It makes voyages into 38 fjords to visit 38 towns in 12 days.  The ship holds a maximum of 300 while a regular cruise ship carries around 3000. Over the years we haven't taken any trips but we have had a large number of adventures instead. We are traveling between the "Midnight Sun" and "The Northern Lights". The ship is three years old joining four others to travel the coast. It is basically all electric. Quiet. It even has a heated closet in the cabin to dry and warm clothing. The bathroom floors are heated. The cabins all have a view and are fairly large for a ship. We like our adventures with hot water and ice buckets. The entertainment is the view and there is not a buffet. Meals are served with Norwegian inspired food served at table. And they promise that we will forget French wines. We will be going ashore for a variety of sites and local concerts. Just what we like. It is the Havila Voyages. We are flying Scandinavian Airlines with moderately long layovers in Copenhagen. A full report will be forthcoming (we are spending four days in Bergen as well).

Signs of the times

Top  is an exit sign in the Colosseum in Verona. I am guessing

that the arrow means "this way" rather something else.

The bottom one in from Paris. This is sophisticated graffiti. 

This sign near Dingle Ireland's coast means just what you think it means.

 

Up a lazy river: Northern Oregon

The Willamette river flows through small towns and large cities. It is a place to fish or just sit in the sun. They have lighted boats for Christmas and Dragon Boat races when the weather is warmer. North of Portland, Oregon USA the river joins the Columbia. While the larger Columbia skirts the city, the Willamette unites it.

This is the back yard of an Airbnb. You can see a neighbor across the water.

This is near where the Jetboats turn around to go back down the river. 

Lovely.

 

Prague

A question came up regarding Prague. "Is it worth a visit?"

I can only say that it is one of my favorite large cities in Europe.

Amazing in every regard, especially in history.

It is called the "City of Spires" for a a good reason.

Photo taken from Prague  Castle.

 

Central European Bronze

There is public art everywhere in European cities. You walk down a street and there is art. It is surprising and inspiring. These two were in Slovakia. 

Top one was in a plaza and bottom one just in the street. 

Getting ready for flight: partial list

So, your plans are set and reservations made. Don't forget:

Your passport and a copy for your suitcase.

A copy of the front and back of credit cards in suitcase.

(Back of card has #to call if lost or stolen).

Call your bank and tell them where you will be.

Cell phone and charger (call carrier for international calling.)

A copy of your driver's license (needed ID if passport not around).

All of your medications, a list of them and in bottles  preferred.

About your list of meds. Not just name but also doctor.

Medical insurance card.

Extra Ziplock bags.

Eye glass prescription or extra pair.

Copy of itinerary also send to family and trusted friend.

List of computer passwords unless you know them by heart.

Add different things for different places (You need malaria pills but not to London)

 sense of humor and adventure.