Norway Geiranger Fjord

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Geiranger is a small tourist town in the western part of Norway in the region called Sunnmøre in the municipality of Stranda. It lies at the head of the Geirangerfjord, which is a branch of the Storfjord. The nearest city is Ålesund. Geiranger is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the world, and has been named the best travel destination in Scandinavia by Lonely Planet. Since 2005, the Geirangerfjord has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This third biggest cruise-ship port receives 140 - 180 ships during the four-month tourist season. Several hundred thousand people pass through every summer, and tourism is the main business for the 250 people who live there permanently. There are five hotels and over ten camping sites. The tourist season stretches from May to early September; in the off-season the pace and activity are reduced to that of a normal small Norwegian town.

Each year in June, the Geiranger - From Fjord to Summit event occurs. It comprises a half marathon run and a bicycle race, both starting from the sea level at the fjord and ending at the 1,497 m (4,843 ft) summit of Mount Dalsnibba. As there is still a lot of snow left in the mountains at that time of year, the race could also be called From Summer to Winter.

Geiranger is under constant threat from the mountain Åkerneset which could erode into the fjord. A collapse could cause a tsunami that could destroy downtown Geiranger.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

National Geographic magazine has deemed the Norwegian fjords the world's most untouched holiday destination.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Geiranger

This is a compelling opportunity to experience Norway’s – and the world’s – magnificent fjords. Set off on one of the most beautiful stretches of road – ideal for anyone yearning for the path less travelled.

Ascend Ørneveien (Eagle Road), taking in its sweeping embrace of sky and mountains and waterfalls and stop for photographs before heading on to Linge. Along the way, witness the power of the river as it cuts through Gudbrandsjuvet gorge, before you reach the stark and wild, high mountain tops where you can relax.

Descending down the dizzying Trollstigen Road, negotiate through all 11 hairpin twists and turns. once safely at the bottom, it is time for refreshments and a bite to eat before continuing on to the gentler landscape of Romsdalsfjord.

You will be afforded a marvellous view of the mountains and fjord – the pride of Molde. Enjoy dinner at a hotel in Molde before rejoining the Hurtigruten ship. The Geirangerfjord region was recently designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and it is still little known and visited, remaining pristinely wild.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2011 Greenland Expeditions

What should I know about Greenland?
Greenland is the largest island in the world, with 85 percent of its area covered with ice. Since there are no roads connecting towns and villages, snow scooters, dog sleds, airplanes and ships are utilized to get around. Greenland is part of Denmark, but with the introduction of Home Rule in 1979, the island has moved towards relative independence based on parliamentary democracy. The 56,000 people living in Greenland are
predominantly Inuit. Today, fishing is the alldominating
trade and accounts for 95 percent of total exports, but in outlying areas, seal and whale catches are of great importance. For centuries, the Inuit philosophy has been to live at one with nature.

What are the flora and fauna like?
Greenland‘s waters are home to a number of different species of whales—including the Blue, Fin, Humpback, Minke and Killer whales—as well as numerous seals. There are over 50 species of birds, including the Arctic tern, black guillemot, Brunnich’s guillemot and raven, as well as four protected species of birds of prey. In western Greenland you’ll find reindeer and musk ox.
There are no forests in Greenland but there are approximately 500 different species of plant, including five kinds of orchid.

What will the climate be like?
The average temperature in the summer is approximately 46 degrees Fahrenheit, with daylight
around the clock. Deep into the fjords—at Kangerlussuaq, for example— temperatures can be
as high as 71 degrees Fahrenheit.

Will I experience the Midnight Sun?
Yes, as long as the weather is clear, the Midnight
Sun can be seen from May through July.

How demanding are the tours?
The landings as well as embarkation and
disembarkation in Kangerlussuaq are by Polarcirkel Boats and are not suitable for the physically challenged. The terrain on shore may be fairly rugged and steep, so you should be reasonably sure-footed and in good physical condition.

How about luggage handling?
Luggage handling is available to and from the ship.

What currency is accepted on land?
Greenland’s unit of currency is the Danish kroner. Visa and MasterCard are accepted in major stores and restaurants. Iceland’s unit of currency is the Icelandic kroner. Major credit cards are accepted in stores and restaurants.

Is there any helpful travel literature I can read before my trip?
Lonely Planet: Iceland, Greenland and the Faroe
Islands is usually available at larger bookstores. More information can be found at Greenland Tourism’s website: www.visitgreenland.com. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 http://www.hurtigruten.com

http://hurtigruten-us.blogspot.com

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geiranger