The ship was unbelievably quiet and calm as it wound it’s way through the islands overnight. We may have stopped a couple of times, but none of us had any idea…
A premium ship = premium breakfast. There were all the usual British style breakfast offerings, along with the more traditional Norwegian. The variety of grainy ‘brød’ is huge, and could become a staple when we get home. I was also fascinated by the fish options – salmon, sardines, caviar, mackerel and herring, pickled, in tomato sauce, in oil, smoked… the list goes on!
The view of the islands and their communities was just like a Christmas card in many spots. The snow frames the tiny red and white houses, and their lights give the warm Christmas glow. When the clouds cleared we could see the mountains in the distance, again the contrast of the snow and the trees standing out from the grey of the sky. 
It was nice to chill on the decks for short periods and enjoy the sounds of the water. The boat is a great way to get from A to B in this part of the world, even though it meant we couldn’t explore on land during the precious moments of twilight!
We arrived in Tromsø at 2:15. It’s a city of about 65,000 people that is spread over a couple of islands. It’s the cultural hub of the region, and at this time of year welcomes thousands of tourists to experience the arctic circle and view the northern lights.
It’s fascinating that for a city of this size filled with hotels and geared to tourists, that there are so few people around and places open. The Norwegians celebrate Xmas Eve, and many restaurants remain closed through to Boxing Day. Supermarkets shut at 3:00pm and only reopen on 27 December. A young local out walking his dog took pity on us, and offered for us to join their family for dinner. It was before we realised the extent of the closures so we declined… the answer may have been different an hour later!
It’s shows that this is a culture that truly values family and tradition over a quick buck. Australia could learn a thing or two at this time of year!
The local Joker (think Night Owl) was a mosh pit of tourists grabbing anything they could before it shut at 4. There would have been some interesting meals last night! After a few calls we found a spot for Xmas pizza. The waiters knew they were one of the only places open and were doing a roaring trade. I was surprised they didn’t hit everyone with a 50% surcharge, because everyone would have paid it!
The girls finished the evening by making Olaf II in the soft snow. I think we need a little more practice as he looks more like a puppy than a snowman!
It would be ticking over to Xmas Day in Australia, so unsurprisingly there is no sign of Santa in these parts! Hope everyone has a lovely Christmas morning!
Love M and theBunch x
Sun: Down all day, Civil Twilight: 9:32-13:55
Temperature: 0-2, wind 10km/h
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