My trip to Norway is winding down. Tomorrow, I will fly back to New York City. This journey wasn’t quite what I’d hoped for—I never did get to see the northern lights. Still, it was a fascinating experience. On board the ship I met a group of wonderful women who were part of the JourneyWoman 30th Anniversary Cruise on Hurtigruten. I got to experience life in the far north near winter solstice when there is minimal daylight. The people who live there have my respect for enduring so much darkness and remaining cheerful.
In Bergen, the rain was never-ending and yet I enjoyed my time there. It is a beautiful city. In Oslo, I’ve never been so grateful for sunlight.
On this, my final day, I meandered around center city somewhat aimlessly, taking in the vibe and enjoying the architecture. That the weather cooperated was a major plus. While wandering, I stopped in Norway’s legislature chamber. It was surprisingly easy to do. Two women were debating something (I didn’t understand a word). The very few members in attendance mostly looked at their phones. Government in action! But the legislative hall was impressive. Outside statues of two lions, similar to those in front of the main NYC public library, guard the building.
Though I bought almost nothing on this trip, I still managed to spend a lot of money. Prices are EXTREMELY expensive for everything. Norway makes NYC look quite reasonable.
This may be the last time I travel to a far north destination in winter. I crave sunlight far too much.