Plan a Girls Trip to Copenhagen

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September 16, 2019

Why plan a girls trip to Copenhagen?

Unless you live in a Nordic Country, taking a girls trip to Copenhagen might not seem like the most obvious choice. However, I think you should reconsider, because the city is full of surprises. The inventive restaurants, killer bars, gorgeous architecture, and clever art scene are seriously enticing. A weekend in Copenhagen has something for everyone, and the nightlife is among the best in the world.

Additionally, the city is safe, and the streets are insanely clean. Initially, Locals are a bit insular, but don’t worry, they are friendly and definitely flirty. Overall, the city is full of charm that I found alluring, even during the winter. Believe it or not, this Nordic city is a fantastic destination, when it’s freezing outside (click here for more on that).

The 5 essential bars for a Girls trip

With so many bars to choose from, you can’t go wrong. Whether you prefer dancing or a relaxed speakeasy (some places actually have both), you will stumble upon something you love. Here are a few suggestions for the perfect girls trip in Copenhagen.

Bar 7

Exquisitely made cocktails served up in a stylish bar set the scene for a chic night out in Denmark. The interesting decor features a lit up piano that anchors the space.

A subtle book themed interior is Intimate and swanky. And, the friendly staff is full of suggestions. The cocktails have cheeky names, and I was partial to the Smiling Assassin. It’s not quite as deadly as it sounds, but it is delicious.

Positive vibes make Bar 7 a great place to start your evening during your ultimate girls trip to Copenhagen.

Strom Bar

Set in the heart of the city, this place is frequently described as European Art Deco. To me, it felt more Danish, and the word Strom actually means power. So, I suppose it’s a mashup of luxurious power. Still, I thought the space felt intimate and darkly moody.

The drinks here are nothing short of amazing. Seriously, if your girls trip to Copenhagen has life altering drinks on the agenda, you will love it here. The libations are described as gourmet cocktails with good reason. They are as intricate as they are clever.

I always appreciate drinks that are out of the ordinary, and Strom Bar is all about interesting libations. I’m still not sure how they pulled off the bottles of frozen cocktails. But, mine was delicious. Bottom line, everything is precise and tastes like magic.

Balthazar Champagne Bar

A swanky scene at a champagne bar in Copenhagen.

I love this place! And, during a girls trip to Copenhagen, it’s a gorgeous space that you absolutely must visit.

The tongue in cheek interior features giant sculptures that feel right at home at Balthazar. something about this upscale champagne joint evokes a sexy spy versus spy vibe that never gets old.

This stunning place also offers cocktails, and I noticed a few people ordering the Downton Abbey. However, if drinking bubbly is your jam, then you should definitely stick to that at Balthazar Champagne Bar.

Pro Tip: Do yourself a favor and make a reservation.

Gilt

There’s no need to feel guilty about hitting up this stylish den of cocktails during a girls trip to Copenhagen. Set in the Norrebro neighborhood, this bar is a classic that never gets old. Dark lighting in an intimate space define the bar that has a straightforward meaning behind its moniker. Quite simply put, the letters stand for Glass, Ice, Liquor, and Topping. Of course, you should expect a Nordic twist.

Inventive cocktails feature everything from coffee and chocolate to elderflower and buckthorn. The menu changes seasonally, so if you don’t see anything listed that strikes your fancy, chat with the bartenders. They love a challenge.

The Jane

Located in Grabrodre Square, antique bookcases give way to an old school vibe at The Jane. There is just something incredibly fun, especially for a girls trip to Copenhagen about coming here.

Styled as a sexy speakeasy, the bar is always bustling. And, dancing begins somewhere around midnight.

If you hunt around for a bit, you will discover secret doorways that reveal rooms you didn’t know existed. Additional bars are hidden from prying eyes, so be diligent in your search.

Pro Tip: Check the bookcase.

Overall thoughts

Quite honestly, I was on the fence about taking a girls trip to Copenhagen during the winter. And, I am so glad that I took the leap, because it is an amazing city. The only problem is that Denmark hosts an embarrassment of riches. And, with so much to do, you certainly won’t get bored.

The Best Bars in Copenhagen

Jamie Sharpe

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September 13, 2019

10

A thriving art scene and gorgeous architecture have made Denmark popular on the world stage. Ideally suited for a girls trip or solo travel, you will never struggle for things to do here. The restaurants are all fabulously designed, so it’s not always easy to narrow down where you want to go. But, it’s the incredible nightlife scene that really shines in Scandinavia. You can’t go wrong, because this city is always ready to party. Still, I think it helps to have a starting point. Here are my picks for the best bars in Copenhagen.

Bubbliest bars in Copenhagen: Balthazar Champagne Bar.

The reservation at Balthazar, one of the best bars in Copenhagen.

This is the first official champagne bar in Denmark, and it is stunning. Confession, I’m at absolute sucker for champagne, so I fell in love with this place before I even walked inside. The vibe is incredibly chic, and you just feel sexier by being here.

Cocktails are also on the menu, and they looked good. However, this place is all about the bubbly.

Pro Tip: Do yourself a favor and make a reservation.

Chic ambience: Bar 7.

Seven is one of the best bars in Copenhagen.

Expertly crafted cocktails served up within a chic ambience set the scene for one of the best bars in Copenhagen. The interesting decor features a piano that anchors the space. Nobody actually plays this instrument, it’s more of a decorative bar that lights up.

A subtle book themed interior is intimate and swanky. And, the friendly staff is full of suggestions. All of the drinks have cheeky names, and I was partial to the Smiling Assassin.

Sophisticated bars in Copenhagen: Ruby.

With a canal adjacent location, Ruby has a lot going for it. This speakeasy looks more like you are going into your friend’s apartment rather than a bar. And, that’s the way they like it here.

Unassuming and discreet, the bartenders take inventive cocktails with a twist seriously here. Definitely not the place to go and rage, it’s perfect if you want a grownup drink with a sophisticated vibe.

Retro posh: Curfew.

When you stumble upon the entrance, ring the buzzer. You will be seated at a posh table or sofa. There is a decidedly retro vibe that feels particularly swanky. Widely referred to as one of the best bars in Copenhagen, be aware that this place fills up quickly.

The emphasis is on the upscale concoctions here. Translation, if you aren’t passionate about inventive drinks, Curfew isn’t for you. However, if mixology is your jam, then you will adore this gin joint. One of my drinks was reminiscent of peanut butter. I think it was a play on an Old Fashioned with unique textures and surprising flavors. This is just one example of how clever the bartenders are with the right ingredients.

Everything is so ridiculously good here, that I strongly advise making a reservation.

Best bars in Copenhagen: 1665 Cocktail Bar.

A ruby drink at one of the best bars in copenhagen.

1665 is another bar that is purposely hidden in plain sight. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled when looking for a way inside. Here’s the deal, the door is not marked at all. There’s not even a number on it. Most people walk by several times before they figure it out. Don’t be surprised if it takes you a little while to find the correct location. Yes, this happened to me. Honestly, it happens to everyone who isn’t a local. Whether or not they admit it, that’s another matter altogether.

Moody and dark in a good way, the atmosphere definitely picks up as the night wares on. It’s expensive, but the quirky cocktails are amazing. I’m still thinking about the Rose Fizz. Easily one of the best bars in Copenhagen, 1665 is popular with all age groups.

Pro Tip: Make a reservation. Speakeasies don’t stay secrets for long.

Former apothecary: Lidkoeb.

This former apothecary is one of the best bars in Copenhagen.

Located in the Vesterbro neighborhood, everything about this place is sleek and chic with retro surprises. Set in a former apothecary, Lidkoeb turns out some amazing cocktails. Downstairs is a high energy bar with loud music and a boisterous vibe.

Upstairs is more chilled out with jazz music and oversized leather chesterfields. It’s a cross between a speakeasy and a borderline attic space. There are so many whiskey bottles on display that you can’t help but be a little impressed by the collection.

Everything is precisely done here, making Lidkoeb one of the best bars in Copenhagen.

Wroclaw, Poland: The Ultimate Guide to Hunting Gnomes!

Jamie Sharpe

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August 30, 2019

1

Wroclaw, Poland: The Ultimate Guide to Hunting Gnomes!

Why go to Wroclaw, Poland?

Wroclaw, Poland is an incredibly walkable city with surprisingly good cocktail bars and gorgeous architecture. The buildings are so vibrant that exploring the streets feels more like wandering through an open-air museum. There is just something about this place that creeps into your soul and stays with you. Personally, I think it is a combination of extremely pretty buildings and tiny gnome statues scattered throughout the city.

Here’s what makes Wroclaw, Poland so special, bronzed gnomes abound everywhere. However, you have to look pretty hard to find them. I quickly discovered that this sport is much trickier than I anticipated. Plus, a lot of the dwarves have been purchased by businesses. Obviously, they have been moved inside of various buildings. So, you are not going to stumble upon one of these little guys that currently resides on private property.

Initially, I was walking around feeling disappointed that I could not find any gnomes. But, these diminutive caricatures of daily life eventually start showing up in the most arbitrary spots. You really need to search for them, because they are more than happy to remain sub-rosa.

Just keep your eyes peeled, because these magical statues reveal themselves in the most random places. And, it’s the best feeling every time you spot one.

The pro-gnome craziness of Wroclaw, Poland

During my trip, locals told me that these merry munchkins were an artistic movement of defiance against Communist oppression during the 1980’s. Locals spray painted little orange people throughout Wroclaw and held protests for imaginary dwarf rights. The Soviets correctly viewed this pro-gnome absurdity as a cheeky slap in the face against their strict laws.

This ingenious artistry cleverly struck a chord with people, because there was little the Communists could do in the face of fabricated dwarf rights. Paying too much attention to the miniatures made the government look utterly ridiculous, so this distinctly orange movement thrived in open secrecy.

In the early 2000’s, the mayor slowly started commissioning a small army of gnomes throughout the city. Looking as mischievous as they are adorable, these little fellows proudly represent the original anti-Communist orange drawings that defaced Soviet propaganda.

Wroclaw, Poland’s map shop

There is a tourist shop in the center of town that sells maps with the original locations of the gnomes. Please note, if one of your travel goals is to find all of the tiny statues throughout Wroclaw, this map will be of little use to you. No matter what the shopkeeper tells you, believe me when I say that this map is seriously out of date.

Still, if you have a hankering for all things related to the rebellious little people that still openly mock the former Communist regime, the store is adorable! And, I highly suggest stopping in, because it is a unique experience. The thing is, I assumed the map would magically unlock the locations of the little statues throughout the city. It only pointed out a few of the gnomes that were already pretty easy to find.

Overall, the novelty of this store is the reason that you are stopping inside. Like I said, it really is charming. I just think the foray into cartography is a different story altogether. Once you begin spying these tiny statues without the map, it renders itself useless anyway.

Overall

Upon arriving in Poland, I initially had no idea that Wroclaw is celebrated for a puckish platoon of whimsical bronzed gnomes. Finding them brings a smile to your face, but nothing this cute comes easily. You definitely have to seek out these little people, otherwise you will be literally tripping over them. Or worse, you might not see them at all. Happy hunting!

Italian Wanderlust: The 5 Essential Verona Bars

Jamie Sharpe

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August 25, 2019

3

Italian Wanderlust: The 5 Essential Verona Bars

Why visit these Verona bars?

Verona, Italy is a historically rich city that is extremely walkable with charming streets that reflect a Roman heritage as much as a medieval backstory. Many people put this on their Italian bucket list Since wine is a major player in this town’s story, it’s one of the primary reasons to visit Verona, and it might even spur you on to try something more adventurous, like wine tours of Peidmont, for example. Here are the 5 Verona bars that you must visit.

5. Rivamancia.

The casual vibe and good pricing attracts as many tourists as locals. Probably better for an aperitif rather than late night drinking, this is one of the Verona bars that is dependable. The cheery staff is more than happy to help you with your drink selection. And, if you are feeling peckish, they serve excellent snacks.

4. Verona bars: Duchi Cafe

This place has a split personality. Coffee in the morning and cocktails at night. While I still think their cafe is the stronger of the pair. It’s not a bad option for grabbing a drink. Head upstairs for a more intimate atmosphere.

The staff is definitely a bit friendlier to locals. While it’s a nice place to end your night, just remember that you can turn up a few hours later for your morning java.

3. The Soda Jerk.

This late night speakeasy is one of the most happening Verona bars. The place definitely has a New York vibe with a door man who makes a big show about letting you inside using an old fashioned key. It’s all very dramatic.

Old school stone walls with wooden beam ceilings juxtaposed against a sleek bar create a sophisticated interior. The bartenders pour some pretty interesting cocktails. Everyone seemed to be ordering the Netflix, and I was not disappointed. One of my drinks even had a seashell (check out the photo).

2. Verona bars: Osteria al Bugiardo.

This local wine joint is one of the quintessential Verona bars. The staff is friendly to everyone, and this place is dripping with everything that’s right about the city. Wonderful Amarone wine and tasty appetizers lure you in, while great vibes keep you there. Wine barrels are used as cocktail tables and stacked stone walls round out the authentic look and feel of Osteria al Bugiardo.

1. Archivio.

Of all the Verona bars, this one happens to be extremely small. As in, you might need a shoehorn to wedge yourself inside. But, once you arrive, you won’t want to leave.

For such a historical town, Archivio thrives with modern, almost retro decor. check out the monthly cocktail specials on the board. And, be sure to arrive early to get a seat.

Pro Tip: Please note, this bar is cash only. My friend and I learned this the hard way.

Drama: Solo Travel Tales from the Darkside

Jamie Sharpe

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August 7, 2019

2

Drama: Solo Travel Tales from the Darkside

My supposedly drama free plans…

trying to avoid travel drama at the lx factory

I initially planned to spend 5 days in Cappadocia, Turkey. As in, it’s been on my calendar for months. Predictably, my primary reason for venturing to this small town is to watch the ridiculously beautiful sea of hot air balloons magically floating overhead. Yes, this dreamy spectacle is on my mind hardcore. Imagining the backdrop of a pristine sky from the terrace (or, hopefully rooftop) of my cave hotel is dominating my thoughts. But, my life is like water. It shifts out and spreads around during inconvenient times, and travel drama is a stranger that has become a constant companion.

I am no stranger to travel drama.

After several years of fighting it, I realized that it’s impossible to escape proverbial wrenches in what were once meticulous plans. There is always drama when I travel solo, always. The only constant that I finally accepted is that something out of my control will alter my schedule.

To be fair, I often have the good fortune of lucking into amazing experiences. However, I also have a serious knack for stumbling into horrible, often comical situations.

For example, the time my Airbnb host wouldn’t part with my keys until we sang with the Hare Krishnas in Prague while it snowed comes to mind. No disrespect to the Krishnas, but it was crazy. This was immediately after being pickpocketed at the Vienna train station and losing my new phone. Now, this situation makes me laugh, but I admit that I was in tears at the time. As I said, travel drama has become a fast friend.

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Okay, Ibiza is a good reason to change course.

This change of plans is actually a good thing, as I am meeting up with my cousin in Ibiza. However, now I only have two days to watch the hot air balloons. And, given that they don’t fly during inclement weather, I know that I am traveling an awfully long way with odds that aren’t great. It’s best to be prepared.

Embracing the LX Factory.

In the meantime, I am exploring Lisbon, and this Portugal trip is turning out to be completely different from when I visited last year. And, when I say different, I mean better. I somehow missed out on the best neighborhoods. Yesterday, I spent the afternoon at the LX Factory, and it was awesome. Welcoming, a little edgy (in a good way) and seriously cool, I am smitten with the hippie chic LX vibe.

Setting myself up for failure?

Still, I can’t get those bewitching balloons off my mind, and I’m actually kind of stressed about it. Plus, my trip from Cappadocia to Ibiza is horrendous. I am giving myself tons of extra time in the different airports, in case something goes wrong with one of my flights. Unfortunately, that seems to happen a lot lately.

With three flights in one day, all I need is for one airline to be off schedule for things to fall apart. So, I’m crossing my fingers that travel drama stays at bay. My only thought is that there are so many opportunities for things to go wrong that I will inexplicably have a seamless day of flying.

Hot air balloon hopes.

Quite frankly, I don’t love my odds for hot air escapades, but when you travel for months at a time, nothing goes to plan. And, honestly, would you want it to? My ridiculous tales have defined my life for so long that I fear I might be lost without them. Still, my fingers are crossed that I will get the chance to soak up those stunning balloons!

Bruges: The Ultimate Guide

Jamie Sharpe

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July 24, 2019

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Why visit Bruges?

A bunch of friends called me before I went to Bruges to gush over the insane beauty of the city. Initially, I found this a bit odd, because no other place I visited warranted such a strong reaction. Now, I understand what all the hullabaloo was about. Yes, Bruges is even more jaw dropping than everybody says.

The colorful buildings along the canal look like something out of a movie. In terms of beauty, Bruges is the real deal. I was so blown away that I could not stop staring. Certainly, this is a natural reaction for any traveler, but Bruges takes things to the next level.

In fact, Bruges is such a showstopper that locals love to brag that it was too gorgeous for Hitler to bomb. I assume this had more to do with a small population and the city not being as strategically important as its neighbors. However, the buildings are original, and they sure look amazing.

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Interactive museums

The city has some awesome museums that are anything but boring. The French Fry Museum might have been small, but the sentiment was so quirky that I couldn’t help but fall in love.

The Bruges City Museum was purposely a little campy; however, it was an absolute blast. I dressed up as a former monarch (see photo), and I walked through fun, informative displays. At the conclusion of the tour, I paid a few extra euros to take the virtual reality experience. it was awesome!

The Bruges town square.

Particularly when it’s lit up at night, the Bruges town square is impossibly picturesque. During the day, the bold colors really pop and scream, look at me. However, the area looks like a painting when the sun goes down. I can describe it to you all I want but seeing it in person is another matter entirely. It is special.

Beer brewed by monks.

During this trip, I joked that spending a few weeks in Belgium changed what nobody else could during college. Meaning, everyone in my life has tried to make me a beer drinker, and it never really took. However, Belgian beer is different from the ales of my past. And, drinking at Le Trappiste, an 800 year old medieval bar, is cool.

First off, please be careful, because this beer is crazy strong. I didn’t really understand this concept, and I couldn’t figure out why I felt lightheaded after only a few beers. I now understand that drinking 3 beers with 12% alcohol will get you wasted in no time flat.

Le Trappiste is set in the basement of a cellar in Bruges, and it almost feels like a crypt, but in a good way. It’s a little tough to find at first, but it’s worth it. The expansive bar has cathedral style ceilings that arch the expanse of the space.

The beer is brewed by monks, and I just thought this was the most unique thing ever. All of this was new to me, and the staff kept letting me sample different brews until I found what I liked. Apparently, caramel, chocolate and cherry notes are my thing.

Additionally, Le Trappiste is ideal for solo travelers. It’s the kind of place that is frequented by groups of Bruges locals, but they expect tourists to invade their bar. By the end of the night, I made several friends, and I feel like that’s pretty typical of most nights here.

Overall

The city’s biggest claim to fame will always be its good looks. But, the quirky museums and crypt chic bar make Bruges irresistible.

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon: A Realistic Look at the Experience

Jamie Sharpe

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July 23, 2019

29

Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon: A Realistic Look at the Experience

Why see the Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon?

When people ask me what it’s like watching the Cappadocia hot air balloons, I describe it as candy gumdrops floating through the sky. Surreal and a bit magical, this experience is commonplace for the locals. However, it is a privilege for tourists. Remember, very few people ever get to watch such majesty in person, so soak up every second possible.

Rooftop vibes in Cappadocia.

Get ready, because the roof decks of the various cave hotels are competitive. While the tourists posing for photos are probably nice people in real life, this will most likely not be the case when the Cappadocia hot air balloons are flying. Visitors frequently forget their manners while stalking the perfect spot. Do not let this discourage you from participating.

The hot air balloon prowlers of Cappadocia.

If your fellow balloon lurkers are a bit, ummm, brusk. Politely stand your ground. This experience is more difficult if you are a solo traveler. I found it challenging without anyone helping me out, but in the end, it was worth it.

Literally everyone else had a small entourage of people with them. No matter what, don’t be intimidated. Remember that you have as much right to be on that rooftop as they do. Using a tripod and clicker often does not carry as much weight. Just put on a smile and remember to enjoy your morning, because the spectacle is amazing.

walking amongst the hot air balloons in cappadocia

Early birds thrive in Cappadocia.

The earlier you get up, the easier time you will have claiming a spot. Most people were in position before 5 am. Clearly, I valued my sleep more than the other guests. I was still on the roof with my hair done (okay, it was still a little wet from the shower) sub 6 am.

The funny thing is that I felt like a bit of a slacker. I can’t even imagine what time the other women woke up. But, I am pretty sure I heard hairdryers going around 3.30 am. So, it just depends on how good you want to look. Again, I tend to enjoy sleep a bit more than I probably should.

Logistics for solo travelers.

If you are traveling alone, consider booking a photographer. Certainly, you can set up a tripod and mount your cell phone or camera to it. Then, use a remote to fire off as many photos as you want. Just realize that the cave hotel rooftops are crowded. They are beautiful, but these pillow filled spaces present challenging environments.

Additionally, you could hire a taxi to drive a short distance to the balloon takeoff area. There is considerably more space, so you can get more photos pretty easily. Your images will not have that perfectly curated Instagram look. However, do not make the mistake of assuming the takeoff destination is inferior. I think the wild surroundings juxtaposed against the cotton candy balls floating through the sky (also known as hot air balloons) offers its own charms.

Life inside a hot air balloon!

Walking inside of a balloon is nothing short of amazing. It’s like playing the coolest game of Parachute ever. However, it’s a rare occurrence, and you have to get pretty lucky for this to happen.

Overall.

The hot air balloon experience is an incredibly special morning, so even if you don’t enjoy having your picture taken, make an exception in Cappadocia. There are other experiences in Cappadocia, but make sure to enjoy life among the fairy chimneys, because there really is nothing quite like it.

The 5 Things You Must Do in Krakow, Poland

Jamie Sharpe

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June 29, 2019

2

The 5 Things You Must Do in Krakow, Poland

Why visit Krakow?

I befriended a few locals in Krakow, Poland that described their home as a city with a soul. After spending some time in the ‘European Capital of Culture’ (an honor bestowed on the city by the European Union in 2000), it’s pretty easy to feel history emanating from the very depths of the city. Instantly smitten, here are the 5 places that you absolutely can not skip during your first visit to Krakow.

Yes, this fortified outpost is technically closed, but it’s still worth visiting. Gothic in style, it serves as a nice marker before entering the old city. And, the Krakow Barbican is pretty interesting when you actually look at it. The brick fort that was formerly surrounded by a moat has transitioned to grass.

The fallen knight of Grunwald in Krakow.

Marking the Polish-Lithuanian victory over the Teutonic order, the Grunwald statue is locally regarded as the fathers who protect Poland. The first time you see the fallen knight, it definitely makes an impression. These days, it’s become more of a place for kids to skateboard. Make sure you touch the defeated man’s fingers for good luck.

Pink Luggage Abroad walks in front of Cloth Hall in Krakow.

Trade up at Cloth Hall.

Krakow Cloth Hall resides in the heart of Old Town, and walking through the enormous building is a fun way to spend the afternoon. Various stalls peddle all kinds of wares, and most of them are admittedly touristy. The space is ornately decorated, and when you look up, you will notice different coats of arms adorning the walls. It’s usually crowded, but the building is impressive, and hidden architectural gems harken back to when Krakow was an international powerhouse of traveling merchants during the 15^thcentury. Don’t forget to walk upstairs to check out the Sukiennice Museum which features Rococo and Baroque art.

St. Mary's Basilica in the main market square in Krakow

Located in the main market square, I was originally going to skip going inside, and I’m really glad I changed my mind. St. Mary’s is one of those places that is so opulent that your jaw pretty much hits the floor when you walk through it. Wrapped up in so much glamour, it actually slipped my mind that people attend church here. So, I laughed when I spotted a visitor’s sign.

From the outside, it looks nice and the doors are gorgeous. But, the building doesn’t appear to be anything that’s stylistically over the top. Once you step inside, everything changes; the basilica seems to soar.

The Wawel Royal Castle in Krakow, Poland is gorgeous.

Embrace Krakow’s royalty.

Built by King Casimir III the Great, the Wawel Royal Castle in Krakow mixes medieval with renaissance styles highlighted by strong Italian overtones. This place is a stunner, and even the walk up to the palace is steeped in grandeur. Quite honestly, the grounds are so impressive that you could easily spend your time walking around the outside and have an incredible day. Bonus, there is a dragon’s den that you can walk through during the summer months. Unfortunately, it was closed during my visit, but it was fun peaking inside and pretending.

Also, the ticketing area is a little confusing. Initially, I really wanted to see the private apartments, but the emphasis here is clearly on the cathedral. Note, there is a 50-zloty deposit for an audio guide, which you get back when you return it. However, be aware that cash is the only form of payment accepted.

Exploring Wawel Castle is fascinating and click here to watch a video with more insider tips.

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The Ultimate Guide to Your First Visit to Bergen, Norway

Jamie Sharpe

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June 28, 2019

0

The Ultimate Guide to Your First Visit to Bergen, Norway

Known as the city of seven mountains, Bergen, Norway, is delightfully quirky in the most charming way possible.

Bergen’s love affair with flowing hair.

One curious thing I noticed while walking around is that Norwegians are serious about hair. For the most part, men, women, and young children alike had extremely long tresses. I realize that it’s an odd thing to comment on, but this almost felt like a cultural rite of passage with the locals. Bonus, if you forget your conditioner in Bergen, Norway, there’s some sort of hair salon every three shops or so.

Fjord tours, the Fløibanen, and more in Bergen.

If you visit Bergen, Norway during in the summer, chances are that you are going to be warmer than you anticipated. Outdoor swimming pools aren’t terribly common, so go for a splash in the Old Bull fountain. It’s what the locals do, and it will definitely cool you down. Other activities include visiting the Fløibanen, the flower filled gazebo in the city center, and the famous wooden houses by the wharf. Click here for more information.

The flower filled gazebo in Bergen's city center.

Fjord tours are by far the biggest draw of Norway’s second biggest city. However, I had a few issues with local websites processing my information correctly. The easiest thing to do is to contact the company directly. The night prior to my fjord excursion, I still had not received the required confirmation. The power of electronic mail saved the day.

And, speaking of booking fjord tours, don’t wait until a week ahead of time (like I did). If at all possible, figure out your travel schedule several months in advance, because these tours fill up quickly. People will always pour in from around the world to admire Bergen’s pristine waters, and you won’t get to participate if you wait until the last second.

Fast fashion in Norway.

Like most of Scandinavia, Bergen is expensive. If you need to pick up a few items inexpensively, Cubus offers fast fashion at reasonable prices. The temperature spiked unexpectedly during my travels, so this place was a lifesaver. It’s convenient, because it’s located a few blocks from the fish market. The trendy styles aren’t investment pieces, but they won’t break the bank either.

Bergen’s information center.

Bergen’s information center is located in the heart of the fish market, and it’s a stark contrast to the rest of the city that revels in old world charm. This modern gem of architecture really stands out like a sleek serpentine that is rather out of place but somehow works. Be warned, lines are long here during the summer. I wanted advice about one of my boat trips, but I gave up and figured things out online. Bergen is quite popular, so I emphasize booking months in advance. Another tip, even if you don’t need additional information about the city, it’s still worth going inside, because this building has incredible views of the harbor.

The information center in Bergen, Norway.

Also, it’s worth noting that WiFi is widely available in the city center. And, the country does a good job ensuring connectivity.

The bus back to the airport from the city is convenient, but it can be a touch confusing. There are four stops, and the Radisson at the end of the row of the celebrated wooden houses is the most common pickup spot. When approaching the front of the hotel, make sure to walk around to the side, by the 26 Bar. Otherwise, you will miss it.

Overall, Bergen, Norway is pristine, incredibly clean, and expensive. Definitely worth a visit, don’t forget to make your plans well in advance. Otherwise, you might see your fjord dreams dashed.

The Ultimate Guide to the Funicular in Bergen, Norway

Jamie Sharpe

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June 27, 2019

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The Ultimate Guide to the Funicular in Bergen, Norway

In Bergen, Norway, the funicular, locally known as the Fløibanen, is a quick walk from the city’s big draw, the wharf. Don’t worry if there is a line when you arrive. Charming cafes and restaurants flood the surrounding streets, so grab a snack at a local eatery, and try back in maybe half an hour. That’s what I did when I visited, and things worked out well. If you feel like waiting it out, this attraction moves pretty quickly, so it won’t be long.

Why go to the funicular?

This popular people mover is a fun way to get a view of the city. I loved it so much that I made an entire day out of riding the funicular to the top and exploring the area.

Marveling at the magnificent feats of engineering while riding through passageways carved out of the mountain might not impress your inner thrill seeker, but it’s cool. And, when the trains pass each other from opposite directions inside the stone tunnels, it’s just amazing. To get a really good look at this, walk near the funicular on your way down and gawk at how impressive it is when you stand close. It’s almost like ‘funicular ballet’.

Even in Bergen, Santa has his eye on you.

After you have taken in the view for a while, take at a look at the directional signs. Various destinations are listed, including the distance to the North Pole. Just think, Santa is watching!

North Pole directions at the top of the funicular.

I suggest walking down to the city, instead of taking the funicular again. This is a nice leisurely stroll with well-marked trails, just be sure to watch your footing because the gravel is loose in spots. It’s not challenging and offers different vantage points of the city. If you accidentally veer off the main pathway (which happened to me during a slightly steep section), don’t worry. Just keep going and the road will pick up soon enough.

Explore the Troll Forest!

Additionally, exploring the Troll Forest during your descent is great! Quirky statues enchant passersby, and tree stumps are cut into various sizes, so it’s a lot of fun bounding along. All ages (yes, even teenagers) embrace the troll-themed playground with serious gusto. I think the novelty of this area seduces everyone’s inner child.

Discover tree socks, better known as yarn bombing.

As you continue down the path, you are treated to more city views amidst a smattering of purple wildflowers. Another unique thing I spotted in this area is what I can only define as “tree socks”. Initially, I assumed it was paint, but upon closer inspection, I realized that people have taken the time to actually knit art over tree trunks. Locals informed me that this is affectionally known as yarn bombing.

No matter, if you spend the afternoon exploring the area at the top of the funicular or you just want to take quick rides up and down, this activity is not to be missed in Bergen. Additionally, there are places to buy water and snacks at the top, so if you walk down, you will be fully hydrated.