Category: Travel Guides
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Seven Summits of Norway, Peak 1: Glittertind on Ski’s
Glittertind is the second-highest peak of Norway, and therefore part of our plan to climb the seven highest peaks of Norway. The initial plan was to organise the trip ourselves, heading up in late spring or summer. But then we came across a guided DNT ski touring (randonée) trip over Easter. It would mean an…
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Norwegian Skiing Terminology Explained
They say Norwegians are born on skis. And honestly, after living here for a few years, I believe it. Even Norwegians who say ”oh no, I don’t really ski” will outrun any foreigner who dares to consider themselves an intermediate cross-country skier. What Does “Going Skiing” Actually Mean? In the Netherlands (and much of Western…
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Ferry Review Oslo – Kiel with Color Line
Last year, I took the Oslo-Kiel ferry for the first time. With my blog post on the ferry between the Netherlands and Norway being one of my more popular blog posts, it only makes sense to write about the only ferry that currently sails between the European mainland and Norway. I am a bit of…
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Climbing the 7 Highest Peaks on Norway in 2026: Costs, Planning and Preparations
For many, January is the month when summer holiday planning begins. The same applies to us. We started looking into when and how we can best climb the seven highest peaks of Norway in 2026, and what equipment we need to do so.
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Live music in Stavanger: Where to find it
I’ve been looking around for bars with live music. It’s challenging to locate these spots when you are not ‘in the scene’. These small live acts will often be published only as a Facebook message, if published at all, and the rest is typically spread by word of mouth. I can’t be the only one…
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Vacation and Productivity: Lessons from Marrakech
Introduction We’re waiting for the train to Gardermoen Airport. The Oslo sky is autumn blue, warm enough for just a light wool jumper. I can’t quite believe that this afternoon we’ll be in 30-degree heat in the bustling medina of Marrakech. I’m mentally reviewing my packing list, but not the usual holiday checklist. I’m thinking…
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The Seven Summits of Norway: My Next Challenge?
I’ve been looking for a new fitness challenge. After six rounds of the Nijmeegse Vierdaagse (the four day marches), I’m ready for something different. Don’t get me wrong, walking 200km in four days through the filled streets of Nijmegen has been amazing, but living in Norway now, the logistics of getting back to Nijmegen each…
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Exploring Norway on a Budget: A Complete Guide
I knew Norway was an expensive country before I moved here two years ago, but I was still surprised when I did my first grocery shopping. I was standing in an REMA 1000 (looks a bit like an Aldi for those of you unfamiliar), staring at vegetables that cost three times what I’d paid in…
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Review: Fjordline Ferry from Kristiansand to Hirtshals with EV Charging 2025
I recently went back to the Netherlands, so it was time for another ferry ride. Having previously written about my Fjordline experiences, I was excited to take the ferry again, this time with a few differences. We recently switched to an electric car, and I was curious about the onboard charging experience that Fjordline offers.…
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Is Scandinavia Becoming a More Popular Vacation Destination?
As a longtime fan of all things Scandinavian, I’ve noticed that Scandinavia seems to be becoming a more popular holiday destination. I’ve read articles about people escaping the heatwaves of southern Europe during the summer and choosing the colder Scandinavian ski resorts over the poor snow conditions found in the Alps. However, I do wonder…
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A Weekend at the DNT Cabin Grautheller: The Last Snow of the Season in Sirdal
Our cabin trip to Grautheller last week was a perfect early spring getaway in the mountains. After navigating the tricky parking situation in the village of Suleskard, we made our way along the private road that leads to the cabin. Though supposedly reserved for kraftstasjon workers, there were quite a few cars on the road.…
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Hiking the Randaberg Coastline: A Rainy but Rewarding 20km Hike
Last weekend, we kicked off our first proper training for the Four Day Marches with a 20km coastal hike around Randaberg. As expected, the weather was far from ideal—rain, wind, and the classic Stavanger grey sky. Despite that, it was a great hike. With a mix of farmland, rugged coastline, historical sites, and beaches, this…
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Ferry between Netherlands and Norway: Where are we at?
As someone who has experienced firsthand the convenience of ferry travel between the Netherlands and Norway, I’m cautiously optimistic about this new development. The previous disappointment with Holland Norway Lines still stings, but Njordic Ferry Lines appears to have learned lessons from HNL. I’ll follow developments closely and share updates on my blog as this…
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Review: Fjordline Ferry from Stavanger to Hirtshals
The Fjordline ferry provides a convenient connection between Norway and Denmark, with comfortable facilities and good amenities. What I like about the overnight ferries is that your holiday starts right away, and you can start fresh on your drive if you travel further into central Europe. However, the cabin booking system could be more transparent.
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Rainy Day Activities in Stavanger: Having Fun When It Pours
Living in Stavanger means accepting a simple truth: Rainy days are the default, and sunny days are the exception. Luckily, there are plenty of things to do that don’t feel like a compromise but become better on a rainy day.
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Besseggen and Jotunheimen: A 5-Day No-Car Hiking and Camping Guide
This summer, my friend and I wanted to go camping and hiking to escape the busy city life and enjoy nature. Without a car, we wanted to go somewhere easily accessible with public transport. We found a beginner-friendly 3-day route around Russvatnet in Jotunheimen on nepaltur.no. The hike is mostly flat, so since we love…
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Flying Cheap Doesn’t Mean Flying Miserable: My 9 Tips
As a Dutchy, I love finding the best deals. I’ll happily dig through websites and make a few sacrifices to save a buck. Over the years, I’ve picked up some tips for making budget travel work, and I’m sharing them with you today.
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Review, Fjordline from Stavanger to Bergen
The original plan was to head to a cabin in Stavanger’s mountains this weekend. But we quickly learned that practically none of the DNT cabins are accessible by public transport, so we decided to take the Fjordline ferry to Bergen instead. I’ve been to Bergen before, but only once—and I was around 10. I remember…
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Review Kristiansand to Hirtshals with Fjord Line FSTR
Last summer I took the ferry from Kristiansand to Hirthals. I thought it would be a good moment to revisit the experience, as I’m looking at travel options to and from the European mainland. All in all, I very much liked the trip. The ferry is quick (2 hours 25 min) and comfortable. The lounge…
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Preikestolen in Wintertime
Yes, October might seem a bit early to discuss winter trips, but this one is worth planning far ahead. Preikestolen is always a beautiful hike, but in wintertime, it might even be better than in summertime. The view looks even more magical with the snow-covered mountains, and you will likely be on the plateau all…