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Wednesday 5th January
How quickly one forgets how heavy a pack can be! Not sure where the extra weight has come from as I've barely bought anything that I'm carrying in my pack. Oh well, it's keeping me fit :) Just have to rework the straps so that I can feel my left arm again!
Used the computer check-in booth at Heathrow Terminal 5 and then put my bags in at the bag drop. Very different way of doing things. Straight through security, well as quick as it is when you have to remove and put back on your hiking boots! Each airport is so different. Before I knew it, I was on the plane, almost at the back again. With 6 seats in each row and 26 rows, this was a smaller plane. We were all onboard and I had two empty seats next to me. Good in some ways, but not so as I would have liked to meet more people.
One hour & forty minutes later, we landed smoothly into Oslo as the snow fell. It was a quick and easy route through immigration and collecting my luggage. Signs and announcements are in both Norsk and English making it all smooth to find my way around. I caught the FlyToget - an express train- to central Oslo before locating a tourist info centre were they kindly phoned a hostel to see if there was any vacancy. I walked the 10min to the Anker Hostel and while booking in I could feel the sweat running down my back. It's hard work trudging through snow with 14.5kg on your back :)
This is my home for three nights - sharing a 4bed room. A quick walk down the streets and I locate a small establishment where I had a very 'safe' dinner of fried chicken chips and salad.
Thursday 6th January
I purchased a 48hr Oslo pass which allows me all the journeys I like on Oslo public transport and access into a huge variety of museums. My first stop was the Munch Museum, which I walked to passed a school with children playing in the snow at playtime. Reading maps and getting used to directions is a challenge but as the day progresses I become more competent.
The museum has a huge collection of Edvard Munch's paintings, lithographs and sketches. The short film on his life and work was interesting and gave history to his inspiration. Munch is a true artist, a little loopy, very Bohemian and has a warped perspective on life/world. It was quite something to see his paintings and the like.
Two bus trips, one in the wrong direction, later I entered the Oslo Domkirke, Cathedral. A simple, yet detailed and small cathedral. I tied some fabric to the Amnesty International weaving and lit a candle. It was nice to gave some quiet time here.
I caught a tram to the National Gallery and soaked up the art work in the general collection - including works by Monet, Cezanne, Picasso and Matisse. The main artist was again Edvard Munch and I enjoyed seeing The Scream and Madonna, Munch's two most famous pieces.
After a yummy roll, Kylling (chicken) & Pesto and a hot chocolate which was served in a bowl!! I made my way back to the hostel to put on some tights under my jeans ready for the Winter Walk at 5pm. This walk began at the Ibsen Museum. Henrik Ibsen a famous playwrite had an apartment in central Oslo, which they've restored and managed to get back most if his furniture. He lived a very strict life which enabled him to write many plays. Following the tour of his apartment we walked through the Palace gardens and along the main street called Karl Johans Gate. It's a pretty street with trees and a path down the middle so it's very, very wide. We concluded at the Grand Cafe. The Geand Hotel is the most expensive hotel and where the Nobel Peace Prize winners stay.
It's been great, but I do feel a little isolated and I miss having someone to share my experiences with. Watch out the next person I meet, I've lots of words saved up!!
Friday 7th January
It's not snowing today and we get to see a lot if the sun today. My first stop is the Fortress. Unfortunately the castle is closed, only open on the weekend. But there was plenty to explore and photograph including the view over the fjord.
I took the tram over to the Nobel Peace Museum and learned all about 2010's winner who happens to be in a Chinese jail for speaking out against the injustice of the communist government. I looked at all the previous winners in a funky display room and read an interactive book on Nobel and how his prize began. Very interesting.
Really beginning to understand the maps and transport now I meandered the Palace gardens and Karl Johans gate taking photos here and there as the sun began to set (3:30 it begins to set).
From the First Millenium Hotel I began another Winter Walk. Tonight on the markets and some historical buildings. No or minimal clouds made for a rather chilly walk. During the walk it was nice to chat with a couple of people - one lady from Switzerland and another who lives in Oslo. Both thought I was adventurous heading up to Tromso and the Nord Kapp. It was great to chat with some people.
Tomorrow I'm off to Tromso and looking forward to meeting Fiona McClymonts friend, Hilde and to go on my Photography tour.
- comments
Wendy Hi Tam, sounds like you are having a fab time - I love hearing all about your adventures - wish you were here to tell me all about it in as many words as you like. Lots of Love Wendy
Alison Tam, your adventures sound great! While we swelter away here on our 3rd 30+degree day... The idea of a nice cold evening walk around town seems very enticing. Wishing you all the best for the lights & Tromso. Say Hi to Hilde from us. Fi says Hi too! She's here on the couch with her gorgeous bump and her flashy new bling - yay for babies & weddings! Keep up the great blogging. xxx
Lynn Tam, thanks for the opportunity to live vicariously through your winter wonderland adventures!!! As I sweat profusely here in Oz, I dream about a quick shower of snow to cool things off! It's hard to believe I was wandering around New York in the snow only a month ago. I'm sure you will get some fantastic photos on your tour - and maybe even meet a gorgeous blonde Viking to share your words with! :) luv Lynn xoxo
Lyn Hi Tam You have some gorgeous photos. I'm enjoying your travels and I agree with those people that you are VERY adventurous. I expect you will return with a smattering of different languages under your belt. Take care out there. Love Lyn
Christine & Suzy Hi Tam, You are bein Amazing getting around and exploring every country you are in. We admire your adventorous spirit. Congratulations on being an Auntie, Love Chris & Suzy xx
Sue W Hi Tamara, It's great to read of your adventures - it's wonderful that you want to share them with friends and work colleagues. I look forward to checking out your photos - keep blogging and snapping. Cheers Sue W