Aarhus/Århus

Aarhus

Aarhus, or Århus as it has also been known, is a city in Denmark, the second largest in the country, situated less than 200km north of the capital on the Jutland peninsula. It is a cultural and economic hub of the region, known as much for its many music festivals as its port and status as a trading hub.… Read the rest

The Flåmsbana

The Flåmsbana

We have spent the morning in Flåm followed by a cruise of The Fjords and now, after lunch, we board the Flåmsbana train to journey some more through this incredible Norwegian landscape.

On the train

The Flåmsbana is a railway journey that travels 20km from Flåm at the Aurlandsfjord, a tributary of the Sognefjord that we have just explored, at least partly, this morning, and up along the line to Myrdal in the high mountains.… Read the rest

The Fjords

The Fjords

We board a bus in Flåm, headed for the Fjords. The bus terminal is just behind the comparatively large tourist centre for such a small town. We have spent the morning here, organizing our tours for the day and taking a walk up behind the town towards the hills.… Read the rest

Flåm

Flåm

Flåm has the greenest of greens. The bluest of blues. The whitest of whites. The horizon closes in, jagged against the most expansive of skies. The clouds drift in between, not willing to take sides.

There is a breathtaking beauty in nature that slips the mind when living in the city.… Read the rest

Copenhagen and the Round Tower

Copenhagen and the Round Tower

We have spent the morning at Christiansborg Palace a former royal palace on the island of Slotsholmen and today the seat of the Danish Parliament and the Supreme Court of Denmark. After exploring the delights of the palace, we head outside to explore the equally delightful streets of the city – Copenhagen and the Round Tower.… Read the rest

Tivoli Gardens

The Star Flyer

Contrary to most amusement parks these days, Tivoli Gardens is both an amusement park and magical adventure wonderland.  In fact, it is described as an amusement park and pleasure garden.  And that it is.

Tivoli Gardens Main Entrance
Excitement barely contained

Originally opened in August 1843, Tivoli is a fairytale wonderland fun fair.… Read the rest

Celebrating in Copenhagen

Night in Nyhavn

It’s my birthday and I am celebrating in Copenhagen.  We have spent the morning on a boat tour of Copenhagen’s canals, after I have been spoiled with some lovely gifts first thing.  Now it’s time for lunch and we’ve landed in Nyhavn, one of the most recognizable and perhaps one of the most picturesque spots of the city.… Read the rest

Copenhagen by Canal

Christianshavn Canal

It’s my birthday and I am out to explore Copenhagen by canal.  

I wake up feeling better than yesterday.  I haven’t been well and despite being rather desperate to get out and explore Copenhagen, I spent the previous day in bed, somewhat resigned to the fact that today may be spent the same way.… Read the rest

Stockholm

Stuténska huset, Gamla Stan, Stockholm

We dock in Nynäshamn, Sweden.  I hear the low grumble of the ship’s motors moving us ever so slowly and carefully towards the port.  Usually I’m happy to find my own way but today we’re booked onto a Big Red Bus transfer into Stockholm, an hour away.… Read the rest

Helsinki

Helsinki Cathedral on Senate Square

Finland’s capital, Helsinki, sits on a southern peninsula in the Gulf of Finland. We have arrived at the port and I’m itching to get into the city but as usual, it’s a bit chaotic getting five people ready.  … Read the rest