Camber had seen my "Bucket List" on my fridge when I was living in the apartment in their home in 1997-1999 so when James' client needed a traveling partner on her 'Best of Scandinavia' tour in Sept 2000 he asked me if I wanted to join her. He would pay for the trip. I had said I wanted to go to Sweden someday on my list and Camber remembered.
Since this trip was long before we were taking digital pictures and so is in none of my books, I am putting it here as a Page. We went by bus, ferry, train, taxi, cruise ships and plane. What a fabulous trip.
Day1 and 2
What an opportunity. I had from March to September to get ready so I got myself in walking shape, picked up my passport and had my shots and we bought my tickets. It was a Trafalgar trip with a Travel Guide and Bus!!!
The day finally came and Denice Peterson and I flew to Houston and then on to London on September 14, 2000.
The cab driver was wonderful to us, we were such novices as we figured out how to get from the airport to the hotel and figured out our money. The money was to be a continual problem actually because Denice could not get her ATM card to work!!!
We stayed at the Thistle Hotel, right near the Tower Bridge so we had lots of exploring to do.
No one thought I should take my long rain coat but it was a Godsend, especially in London. This trip was the last of the summer season so it would be a little cooler. Denice and I walked all over in our raincoats and with our umbrellas and enjoyed every minute of it.
This was our view from our first Hotel, and we walked many places from there.
That night at the hotel I had the garlic smashed potatoes with Salmon and a cream sauce over them. It was fabulous, had it again when we stayed there on the way back.
This was a beautiful place to see and pose in front of. I was surprised to see flowers all over London.
We had a bus tour in the morning of several sites and were then on our own. We accomplished so much and I remember walking home in the rain when it was dark--we had eaten Fish and Chips, we had been all over. No fear.
Day 3-London Sightseeing
I think we were catching the flower baskets again.
St. Paul's Cathedral
Picadilly Circus
Someone famous, tomb or, can't remember but it was beautiful.
Big Ben, over and over.
Denice, waiting to get into Buckingham Palace.
Denice, waiting to get into Buckingham Palace.
We toured the Victoria and Albert Museum, which is the world's greatest museum of decorative art.
We saw the Guards and Horses perform behind these outer walls.
We toured Buckingham Palace.
Houses of Parliament
Westminster Abbey
Day 4-White Cliffs of Dover
Our Tour Director gave us lots of information as we drove from London to Dover in our bus.
It was fun to see the countryside. We had a short channel crossing to Calais, France and got a wonderful view of the White Cliffs of Dover. The driver asked us if any of us knew the song. I, of course, did!!
"There'll be blue birds over, the white cliffs of Dover, tomorrow, just you wait and see.
There'll be love and laughter and peace ever after, tomorrow, when the world is free.
And Johnny will go to sleep in his own little bed again.
(can't remember the next line)
There'll be blue birds over the White Cliffs of Dover, tomorrow, just you wait and see."
It was a World War II song, but we did not really understand what the White Cliffs of Dover were.
It was fun to see the countryside. We had a short channel crossing to Calais, France and got a wonderful view of the White Cliffs of Dover. The driver asked us if any of us knew the song. I, of course, did!!
"There'll be blue birds over, the white cliffs of Dover, tomorrow, just you wait and see.
There'll be love and laughter and peace ever after, tomorrow, when the world is free.
And Johnny will go to sleep in his own little bed again.
(can't remember the next line)
There'll be blue birds over the White Cliffs of Dover, tomorrow, just you wait and see."
It was a World War II song, but we did not really understand what the White Cliffs of Dover were.
Denice was looking for money, we both wanted water and only had enough money for one bottle. We were really ditzy about the money thing but we managed somehow. Though I saw a few guys raise their eyebrows a few times as we had to figure things out where to get money.
We drove through Belgian countryside on the way to Amsterdam.
D
We drove through Belgian countryside on the way to Amsterdam.
D
That night we saw Amsterdam and stayed at the Hotel Eden. The driver drove us around Amsterdam and showed us some interesting sites and then we were able to walk around some, too. Very interesting people there!
Day 5-Amsterdam to Hamburg
I took a few more pictures of Amsterdam as we took the bus to Hamburg.
For lunch we stopped at a charming spot called Groingen before reaching the German Border. The lunch was delightful and I think this is where we watched the making of the Dutch shoes.
When we arrived in Hamburg we had a bus tour of the city and went to the top of this high building for drinks and to view the sights.
We stayed at Le Meridien Hotel and that night viewed the Dancing Waters.
Day 6-Hamburg to Copenhagen-Cruise
In the city of Lubeck we visited this beautiful church St Marien where there are organ concerts throughout the year.
Lubeck
Also in Lubeck are these bells that still sit where they fell in WW II.
We drove to Puttgarden and took a short cruise across the Baelt to Rodbyhavn in southernmost Denmark and then a scenic drive to Copenhagen, which is considered Scandinavia's Capital.
We stay here two nights at the luxurious Sophie Amalie Hotel.
This large ship was sitting right outside our Hotel.
That night we got to the Apotek for a typical Christmas Dinner. This was really wonderful food and very enjoyable.
This was 'Cat' our tour director. This is a wonderful way to take a trip. Your luggage is carried in for you, plans are all made, you are told many wonderful things. You just have to show up every morning dressed and ready for a great time.
After the dinner we went to Tivoli to wander, shop, gaze, be entertained. What a magnificent place.
After the dinner we went to Tivoli to wander, shop, gaze, be entertained. What a magnificent place.
Show on stage at Tivoli.
Day 7-Copenhagen Sightseeing
Today we see impressive highlights on morning sightseeing including the Stock Exchange, home of the Danish Monarchy, Amalienborg Palace, Christiansborg Palace. We also saw the Little Mermaid guarding the harbor, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's sad fairytale. We also had time on our own to wander and see whatever we wished.
The Palaces that we saw--not sure which is which.
This was near the home of Hans Christian Andersen--such a charming area.
Copenhagen
We loved this area. So came back again.
We loved this area. So came back again.
I had to ask a lot of people before I could find a post box.
Part of our tour group.
At the Queen's Palace.
At the Queen's Palace.
Day 8-Copenhagen to Stockholm
We take a morning ferry crossing of the Oresund to Sweden. Then on to Granna, at the head of Lake Vattern. I thought I would love to live there, didn't get many pictures though as we were driving in a bus. I loved seeing southern Sweden, the countryside and houses. Lots of red houses.
We stopped at this wonderful place for the best lunch. We ate so well on the whole tour.
This was actually just to see the thatched roof!
This was actually just to see the thatched roof!
Can't remember where this was but so picturesque.
And then finally we arrive in Stockholm where we will stay two nights.
And then finally we arrive in Stockholm where we will stay two nights.
We will have lots of free time to do lots of walking of Old Town and our hotel is located so we can walk many, many places.
Day 9-Stockholm Sightseeing
Our morning sightseeing trip includes the City Hall. The City Hall is amazing, right on the water and absolutely beautiful inside and out.
They give out the Nobel Prizes from here.
So beautiful, you have to see it to believe it.
So beautiful, you have to see it to believe it.
This was the Royal Dramatic Theater.
We explored Old Town by ourselves, such a fun place with good things to eat and fun things to buy.
Earlier in the day at the Royal Palace I took this picture of students touring. They looked just like Americans I thought.
There was a fun marketplace where vendors were selling lots of different things near our hotel and we had fun talking to an American who had gone to Sweden to study and then married and stayed there. He made wooden toys and puzzles and I believe I bought some from him.
Denice and I really enjoyed walking all over Stockholm and going into the modern area as well as old town. In the downtown area so many of the young people were wearing red and black. Very noticeable. We also found there were candy stores on about every corner. No wonder I love candy, it is in my genes.
It was also in Stockholm when I finally let Denice know how frustrating it was when she positively said she knew something (for instance when people would ask how to get to a certain place) and then she was wrong. She was so eager to be of help but it is not help when we walk four blocks out of our way beccause she is so sure she knows the way. Other than that we got along just fine but I began to doubt her assurances and depended more on my own directions than to ask for her help.
We thought the most beautiful people we saw were in Stockholm (on the whole trip). Norway has beautiful scenery but Sweden has beautiful people.
Denice and I really enjoyed walking all over Stockholm and going into the modern area as well as old town. In the downtown area so many of the young people were wearing red and black. Very noticeable. We also found there were candy stores on about every corner. No wonder I love candy, it is in my genes.
One of the most interesting museums was the Vasa Museum on the island of Djurgarden in Stockholm. There is much to see but the main thing is the royal warship Vasa which was built in 1628 and sank on her maiden voyage. The Vasa was the most expensive and richly decorated naval vessel that Sweden had ever built. She was the King's pride.
In 1956 Andersw Franzen found the ship and began the salvage and restoration. It is one of the world's foremost sights and best preserved 17th-century ships. As of 1994 over fifteen million visitors from various countries had viewed it and the adventure is still in progress and being seen by millions more.
It was also in Stockholm when I finally let Denice know how frustrating it was when she positively said she knew something (for instance when people would ask how to get to a certain place) and then she was wrong. She was so eager to be of help but it is not help when we walk four blocks out of our way beccause she is so sure she knows the way. Other than that we got along just fine but I began to doubt her assurances and depended more on my own directions than to ask for her help.
We thought the most beautiful people we saw were in Stockholm (on the whole trip). Norway has beautiful scenery but Sweden has beautiful people.
Day 10-Stockholm to Hamar
My ancestors did come from Stockholm. They also came from Karlstad which is where the next two pictures are taken. Notice I have my red and black on--just like the Stockholm ladies I thought.
As we were going by in the bus I noticed the name of Karlskoga on this trailor, this was another city my relatives came from.
Our destination for the night was to be this Scandic Hotel in Hamar. I loved the comforters and warm towels we found in all the hotels. Denice like to sleep on her comforter but I liked it on top of me.
Another city we spent some time in was medieval Orebro and I had heard my aunt's speak about Orebro, yes we had relatives from there, too. After Orebro and Lake Vanern we drove through Varmland which we had many relatives from.
Another city we spent some time in was medieval Orebro and I had heard my aunt's speak about Orebro, yes we had relatives from there, too. After Orebro and Lake Vanern we drove through Varmland which we had many relatives from.
We drove along the Glomma River before finally reaching the Sweden/Norway border marked by this huge monument. Denice's ancestors came from Norway and the reason she had been planning this trip for four years. I was anxious to compare Norway and Sweden. So far I no knew why I liked pine trees, red houses, and candy, plus wearing red and black. All part of my dna I guess.
Finally we reached Hamar which became a trading center in the 11th century and an advanced city as far back as 1849. Within walking distance from the hotel was a huge Cathedral, and also the oldest operating paddle steamer in the world plus the Viking Ship which is a new tourist attraction.
This is Viking Hall of the Winter Games.
Day 11-Hamar to Geiranger
This is a Stave Church in Lom. Before reaching it we traveled along the shores of Lake Adjosa and spend time at the Olympic town Lillehammer and see some of the ski slopes that are still in place.
Then we travel into the mountains and along the fjords --and what scenery that is. All this before we reach our fjiord side hotel in the town of Geiranger.
The hotel is called "Hotel with a View"
Before we get there we travel on the last ferry of the year 2000 because winter will soon begin. The scenery is more beautiful than we ever expecxted to see.
There were farms up in this precipitous mountains as recently as 1961. The farms were a testament to man's ability to survive. History tells us of children and animals being tethered so they didn't fall over precipices, of walking several miles to fetch the midwife or doctor. And of paths being blocked up when the tax man came!
Picture taken on the ferry.
Walking in and around the hotel area.
More scenery from our ferry.
Day 12-Herdelssetia (Summer Farm)
We visit the largest dairy farm cooperative for goats in Norway. The modern day farming is based on and at one with 300 years of tradition. This summer farm with its 400 goats, some cows, sheep and horses is reached by a private toll road of high standard.
The goats were very friendly.
The goats were very friendly.
This was a fun experience and the bus trip was interesting as well.
The lady in blue is the manager of the farm.
Denice kept encouraging me to mingle with the goats.
Young girls are in this little huts stirring the brown cheese.
Day 13:Geiranger to Sognefjord
Actually this was a picture from the day before but more views like it as this is a day of driving and looking at the views. We saw a lot of falls which I didn't pictures of for some reason but very beautiful.
The striking contrasts between the fjord and alpine peaks and between fertile field and snow and ice are characteristic of the Tafjordfjella mountains.
We stopped to view the Boyabreen glacier and I bought a card to show that the glacier has been shrinking every year. Somewhere along here the Tour Director had a snack and a taste of Skol for everyone!
We finally reach the beauty of the Sognefjord Hotel. We visited the Leikanger Church here and I think this is the place Denice and I went down to listen to some music being played in the bar that evening.
We finally reach the beauty of the Sognefjord Hotel. We visited the Leikanger Church here and I think this is the place Denice and I went down to listen to some music being played in the bar that evening.
Day 14-Sognefjord to Bergen to Os
Today we ascended the Vikafjeil to Voss and then descend to Bergen, Norway's most cultural and naturally beautiful city.
Our trip across this area the last two days was called "Norway in a Nutshell" and included train, ferry and bus to catch all the views. Norway is a beautiful, beautiful place.
Our trip across this area the last two days was called "Norway in a Nutshell" and included train, ferry and bus to catch all the views. Norway is a beautiful, beautiful place.
We have a sightseeing tour which includes the home Edward Grieg and one of the Stave Churches originally built in 1150 but reconstructed after a fire in 1992.
A Stave church according to Wikipedia is a medieval wooden church with a post and posand beam construction related to timber framing. The wall frames are filled with vertical planks.
All of the surviving Stave churches except one are in Norway and we saw a few along our journey.
Home of Edward Grieg
We finally arrived at our hotel in Os for a wonderful supper and free time to explore.
Day 15-16 Os-Bergen to Geilo and then to Oslo
We spent the morning of Day 15 exploring Bergen but we must have been tiring of posing bccause we didn't take any pictures. Then we drove via the Voringfoss waterfall and continued across the bleak Hardangervidda to the beautiful resort town of Geilo.
This was such a charming place, great place to come skiing. We sat by the fire at night and listened to a Group from Bulgaria sing American songs from 40's to 60's. What fun, you had to listen really well but they were sweet.
This was such a charming place, great place to come skiing. We sat by the fire at night and listened to a Group from Bulgaria sing American songs from 40's to 60's. What fun, you had to listen really well but they were sweet.
Geilo
Next morning we traveled through the narrow Hallingdal Valley to emerge among the trim farms of Ringerike. Then we pass by Honefass and through the town of Norderhov with its medieval church. Later we enjoy the scenery as we travel between the Steinsfjord and Tyrifjordn en route to Norway's Capital of Oslo.
Actually I think we were still on the "Norway in a Nutshell" tour and part was by train and ferry as well as bus. Finally we arrived in Oslo, our destination and the end of that tour--though you could do a round trip back.
Next morning we traveled through the narrow Hallingdal Valley to emerge among the trim farms of Ringerike. Then we pass by Honefass and through the town of Norderhov with its medieval church. Later we enjoy the scenery as we travel between the Steinsfjord and Tyrifjordn en route to Norway's Capital of Oslo.
Actually I think we were still on the "Norway in a Nutshell" tour and part was by train and ferry as well as bus. Finally we arrived in Oslo, our destination and the end of that tour--though you could do a round trip back.
Day 17-Oslo Sightseeing
We stayed at the Scandic Hotel in Oslo. In the morning we had a guided sightseeing tour of an Old Cathedral and the Royal Palace and then we visited the Vigeland Sculpture Park. We must have marveled at Vigeland's "Story of Life" through his naked body scultures.
We also visited the Vikingskipene Museum.
We learned that a Queen and her maid would be buried in a large ship with everything they would need for the next life, such as a sleigh, cooking utensils, a cart, money, textiles.
We also visited the Polar Vessel "Fram". This veteran of polar exploration went the furthest north and the furthest south of any of the ships.
We also saw the Kon-Tiki and other ships at the Kon-Tiki Museum. The Kon-Tiki crossed the Pacific in 1947.
Thor Heyerdahl (1914-2002) is one of history’s most famous scientists, adventurers and champions of the environment. The Kon-Tiki Museum houses original boats and exhibits from Thor Heyerdahl’s world famous expeditions.
And the Ram II which crossed the Atlantic in 1970. The idea was to see where the ships would drift to.
Another thing I found out is that the early ancestors of my ancestors was probably the Vikings!!
Another thing I found out is that the early ancestors of my ancestors was probably the Vikings!!
Day 18-22 Oslo to Sea, Cruise, London and Home
After spending more time in Oslo in the morning for last minute shopping we drove to Kristiansand to board our 'mini-cruise' across the North Sea to England. The liner had bars, restaurants, and a nightclub. All cabins had shower and private facilities. It was very luxurious. We had an inside cabin and it was small but nice. We spent most of our time outside.
I am not sure why we didn't take pictures but we had one of the most lavish buffets I have ever had. The food was marvelous. We sat at long tables and I was tucked way in the end and so had to pass everyone at my table when I would get more food. One of the men (not from our group) was at the end and slightly drunk. When I came back from loading my plate the last time he said he would not let me by unless I kissed him so all eyes were on me to see what I would do. I quickly kissed him on the cheek and he let me pass. My party was very surprised. I think he was, too. But what would you do, start a scene???
Day 19 we spent at Sea and wandered the ship and viewed the scenery. There was much you could buy, of course. After we docked at New Castle, our coach brought us back to London, arriving in the late afternoon.We stayed at the same hotel we had stayed when we arrived and we did some evening touring and I remember I had the Garlic smashed potatoes with the Salmon and cream sauce again. I wish I could duplicate it.
I am not sure why we didn't take pictures but we had one of the most lavish buffets I have ever had. The food was marvelous. We sat at long tables and I was tucked way in the end and so had to pass everyone at my table when I would get more food. One of the men (not from our group) was at the end and slightly drunk. When I came back from loading my plate the last time he said he would not let me by unless I kissed him so all eyes were on me to see what I would do. I quickly kissed him on the cheek and he let me pass. My party was very surprised. I think he was, too. But what would you do, start a scene???
Day 19 we spent at Sea and wandered the ship and viewed the scenery. There was much you could buy, of course. After we docked at New Castle, our coach brought us back to London, arriving in the late afternoon.We stayed at the same hotel we had stayed when we arrived and we did some evening touring and I remember I had the Garlic smashed potatoes with the Salmon and cream sauce again. I wish I could duplicate it.
'Our driver and Tour Director--this is truly a nice way to travel, but it is not cheap.
We took a final picture before leaving our Coach. It was an interesting group, mostly older people, of course. There were a few single young people, however. The most interesting of the group was a lady with her black husband, he was most friendly and helpful and the couple from Australia. They are the second man on the right with the blonde wife behind him. He was very funny and they were lovely to talk to. Made me want to see Australia. There was also an older well traveled couple which gave us lots of advice. We were the novices it seemed.
Day 20 we went to the airport, back to Houston and then finally on to San Diego. The flight back was very tiring and we were so glad to get home. It was a wonderful trip but it was getting very long and that trip across the ocean is very, very long. It was Day 22 when I finally said farewell to Denice. We had to settle our money later as she had borrowed a lot from me since she had such a problem with her ATM and never wanted to go into the exchange places. I was very appreciative to her for letting me travel with her. It was very pleasant. Four years in the planning and then her daughter bailed out on her. Many thanks to James and Camber for giving me the trip of a lifetime.
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