A group of 15 CONC members recently traveled to Bergen, Norway to cruise the beautiful Norwegian Coast from the Hanseatic city of Bergen north over the Arctic Circle and around the distant North Cape to the easternmost point near Kirkenes adjacent to the Russian border. Our voyage up and back took us 12 days, with many stops in villages and coastal cities to deliver mail, goods, and travelers along this fantastic coastline. Along the way, we were able to disembark to kayak, bicycle, hike, and just walk through towns wherever time allowed. Other times, we could board a coach to see the inland sights and meet our ship at the next port of call. Our onboard accommodation was in outside 2-person cabins with large view windows and en suite facilities. Meals were excellent and bounteous. We could attend lectures by our expedition crew each day, so we all learned quite a lot about Norwegian history, geology, customs and traditions. We visited Hammerfest, known as the world’s most northern city, and marveled at the reconstruction of the northern Norwegian towns after the Nazi total scorched earth policy near the end of World War II, when nothing was left standing. We met interesting people (only a few other Americans) and saw lots of reindeer. We enjoyed our time in Bergen both before and after our voyage. Certainly Norway merits many more visits.
Shari Hogshead
