Category: John & Sandy

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Oslo, Norway.

OSLO, NORWAY
A Glimpse into the Historical Tapestry of Norway’s Capital
Nestled on the shores of the Oslofjord, Oslo, the capital city of Norway, carries a rich and captivating history that dates back over a thousand years. From its humble beginnings as a Viking trading post to its emergence as a flourishing cultural and economic hub, Oslo has evolved into a modern city while preserving its historical charm.

Oslo’s origins can be traced to the Viking Age, when it was known as “Vikingskipenes By” or “The City of the Viking Ships.” Founded in the 11th century, it was a crucial trading center and a base for Viking expeditions. Excavations in the modern-day neighborhood of Gamlebyen unearthed artifacts and remnants of the city’s Viking heritage, including the iconic Oseberg ship, now on display at the Viking Ship Museum.

During the Middle Ages, Oslo flourished as the seat of power for Norwegian kings. King Håkon V constructed the Akershus Fortress in the 13th century to protect the city, which still stands as a symbol of Oslo’s medieval past. In 1299, Oslo was officially designated as Norway’s capital, solidifying its status as the political and administrative center.

In 1299, Oslo was officially designated as Norway’s capital, solidifying its status as the political and administrative center.
In the 14th century, Norway entered a union with Denmark, resulting in a period of Danish dominance that lasted more than four centuries. Oslo experienced significant changes during this time, with the city expanding beyond its original boundaries and constructing iconic landmarks such as the Royal Palace.

SIGHTS
• Royal Palace & Gardens
• Vigeland Sculpture Park
• Oslo Opera House
• Aker Brygge
• House of Oslo
• Fram Museum
• Holmenkollen Ski Tower

CUISINE
Oslo’s Culinary Elegance Awaits. Indulge in Oslo’s refined culinary landscape, where Nordic tradition meets contemporary flair. Savor seafood delicacies like king crab, Arctic char, and hand-dived scallops at Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen in waterfront fine-dining establishments. Discover Michelin-starred experiences at restaurants like Maaemo or Statholdergaarden, where locally sourced ingredients are transformed into seasonal tasting menus.

Today’s Excursion – Best of Oslo
During this scenic half-day sightseeing excursion through Oslo, we discovered the art, history, and culture of Norway.
City Tour
We passed City Hall, the National Theatre, the Royal Residence, and suburban villa areas en route to the Bygdøy Peninsula.

Open-Air Norwegian Folk Museum
Step back in time at the quaint Open-Air Folk Museum, where a guided walking tour takes you through a wooded forest to a
traditional Norwegian village. The authentic town features 158 rural and urban Norwegian buildings, each representing a
different historical period and region. You will see a 13th-century Gol Stave Church with its steep stepped-roofs and
wood-carved dragons, Hovestova, built for houseguests attending a three-day wedding, a collection of farmhouses, and the
old village of Christiana.

Vigeland Sculpture Park
Vigeland Sculpture Park is Norway’s most visited attraction. The park features 200 bronze, granite, and iron sculptures, a monolith with 121 figures carved from a single block of granite, and 36 statue groups surrounding it.

Holmenkollen Ski Jump
The Holmenkollen Ski Jump is a must-see site offering splendid views overlooking the city.

Dinner was in The Atlantide Restaurant

Where in the World Are We?

We are in Stockholm, Sweden.

STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN
Welcome to the land of Nobel Prizes!

We all have heard of the Nobel Prizes, but did you know that their roots are firmly planted in Sweden? Our tale begins in Stockholm, on October 21, 1833, with the birth of a boy named Alfred, son of Karolina Andriette Ahlsell and Immanuel Nobel. With a lineage tracing back to the renowned 17th-century Swedish scientist Olof Rudbeck and numerous engineers in the family, Alfred was destined for a scientific lineage. Yet, he harbored a deep love for literature.

After completing his education in the United States and France, Alfred began exploring explosives in 1862 with his father, who had founded a marine mining company. In 1865, as serendipity would have it, he discovered that by mixing unstable nitroglycerin with an inert solid, it required a detonator to explode, making it far safer and easier to transport. Dynamite was born and duly patented, changing the course of industrial history. Alfred’s wealth was now secured, but his passion for discovery remained undimmed.

His life took a dramatic turn when a French newspaper erroneously published his obituary, labelling him as the “merchant of death”. Stunned by the portrayal, Alfred decided to leave a better legacy.

The first Nobel Prizes were awarded in Stockholm in 1901, five years after Alfred’s death. Every year since December 10, these awards are presented by the King of Sweden, except for the Peace Prize. This particular prize is awarded by the King of Norway because, until 1905, both countries shared the same king and divided the prize between themselves after they separated.

SIGHTS
• Gröna Lund Tivoli
• Kungliga Slottet
• Rosendals Trädgård
• SkyView
• Stadshuset
• ABBA The Museum
• Historiska Museet

SHOPPING AND CUISINE
Drottninggatan, a vibrant pedestrian street in the heart of the city. It’s known for its mix of large chain stores, boutique shops, and international brands, offering a diverse shopping experience.

“Fika”, the most famous Swedish tradition, is the delightful custom of enjoying a coffee and a treat with friends. Under Kastanjen translates to “Under the Chestnut Tree,” is located in Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s Old Town. It’s tucked away from the busy main streets and faces Brända Tomten, a small public square. Centuries-old buildings line this square, and fika-goers.

Today’s Excursion – Stockholm & Vasa Museum

Stockholm, founded as a fortress where Lake Mälaren meets the Baltic, began to grow in the mid-13th century.It ultimately
became Sweden’s capital.

City Drive, Island of Djurgården
The nearby island of Djurgården was once the royal family’s private hunting grounds.

Vasa Museum
On the island of Djurgården, regarded as Stockholm’s outdoor recreation center and “Green Lung,” we visited the Vasa Museum. On display is the seventeenth-century warship, which sank in Stockholm’s inner harbour on the outset of its maiden voyage in
1628. The discovery of the ship in 1956 and its subsequent salvage in 1961 are among the most significant events in marine archaeology.

City Sights, Royal Dramatic Theatre, City Centre, Opera House, Parliament Building, Royal Palace
Leaving the Vasa Museum, we took a panoramic sightseeing drive through Stockholm. Along the way, we passed several renowned landmarks including the Royal Dramatic Theatre, City Centre, Opera House, Parliament building, and, of course, get a view of the Royal Palace.

World Cruise Gala Dinner – The World Through Our Eyes

We enjoyed an extraordinary evening where photography, culinary artistry, and authentic cuisine came together in the historic brick walls of Winterviken.

Once Alfred Nobel’s dynamite factory, now transformed into Stockholm’s most elegant event space, a multi-sensory journey awaits, where art extends beyond the frame.

As we savored exquisite Swedish delicacies crafted by rising Scandinavian culinary talents, we were surrounded by the powerful images of Silversa’s long-time partner, Steve McCurry. Curated by Sotheby’s and previously showcased in New York and London, this prestigious exhibit now arrives in Stockholm exclusively for World Cruise guests.

The experience culminated in the iconic sounds of ABBA, performed by stars from London’s West End hit musical Mamma Mia!, bringing “Dancing Queen,” “Winner Takes It All,” “Waterloo,” and more to life against the backdrop of industrial-chic architecture and lakeside serenity. This harmonious blend of visual, culinary, and musical artistry creates a celebration as unique as our World Cruise.

9:00 Movie Night: Conclave – 2024, Parental Guidance, Thriller/Mystery
Edward Berger directed the Academy Award for Best Picture. Starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci,
John Lithgow and Isabella Rossellini.