Amsterdam
Amsterdam has been made world-famous through reports of its lax drug laws, liberal structure, and legal prostitution. These aspects may or may not be reasons for visiting this beautiful country, but allow me to tell you that they do not begin to compare with the glory and wonder of the landscape, combined with the impressive and fascinating historical sights and museums. The scenery alone is intoxicating, and the musical performances and shopping facilities are stupendous. Even with all of the incredible activities and interesting engagements, something must be said for experiencing a hashish brownie at one of the local bakeries. The scenic splendor of Amsterdam is in excess, and this exquisite city houses some of the finest museums anywhere. The Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum are both extraordinary, and the Anne Frank House is a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into the life of one of history's most tragic heroines. Amsterdam features one of the lowest crime rates in the world for a major metropolitan city. The locals are eager to help you, and no one seems afraid to be walking around at night, and why should they be? The government is stable and the close-knit communities ensure safety on the streets virtually all of the time.
Queen's Day, celebrated on April 30, is a sprawling street festival that is typically the most rousing and fun-filled day of the year. The Holland Festival of the Arts is a cherished event, and it seems as if on any day in Amsterdam, you will be treated to a spectacular display of lights, sites, music, and entertainment.
Bergen
Bergen is a picturesque city in the gorgeous country of Norway. Located in the western region of this glorious land, Bergen is a beautiful and diverse area full of natural wonders. The museums are fantastic, and the Bergen Art Museum in particular is a real gem. The visual splendor of Bergen is remarkable, and you will never tire of this extraordinary city. The fjords are magnificent, and the longest fjord in Norway is Sogne, located just to the north of Bergen. Many of the old buildings in the heart of the city are beautifully constructed and are charming spots just waiting to be explored. The eating and shopping in Bergen are both excellent, as there are a number of high quality restaurants and stores to peruse. The jewelry and clothing in Bergen shops are extremely nice, and in some locations you will discover great hard-to-find items. A combination of natural and man-made beauty makes the Hanseatic Wharf area one of the most spectacular port areas in the world. Wherever you go in Bergen, you are sure to be amazed, and the waterfront of the city is particularly impressive.
King Olav Kyrre established Bergen as a Viking harbor in 1070. It was by far the most important port in all of Norway for import, export, and general usage. In the thirteenth century, Bergen was officially declared the capital of Norway. In 1241, the Hanseatic League was established in order to create monopolies on certain segments of European trade. Bergen joined forces with several German cities and became one of four main trading powers and one of the primary ports for salted fish and timber on the continent, making the area incredibly powerful and prosperous. This rich heritage has survived the centuries, and Bergen continues to be a thriving city. Just recently, it was declared one of the three tidiest cities in Europe, which is quite an honor indeed. If you like cleanliness, crisp air, and an abundance of sights and adventures, then Bergen is a perfect city for you. There is definitely a lot of rainfall in this port city, but you are sure to be cheered up by one of the friendly locals, who will insist that you join in for a laugh and a drink at one of the local hangouts.
Honningsvag
Honningsvag is the northernmost village in the world, and that is definitely their claim to fame. The lovely citizens of Honningsvag hold the North Cape Festival every year celebrating their culture and heritage, as well as the uniqueness of their wonderful town. If you like fishing, then you will adore Honningsvag, because the harbor is beautiful, and the fish are leaping at the chance to get a bite of what's on your hook. This harbor region provides access to the entire North Cape, and in fact, Honningsvag itself is the actual gateway. In 1944, the German Nazis came through this area and literally destroyed the city. Everything was completely demolished except for the chapel, and the some of the locals still recall the carnage. Thankfully, both the chapel and the spirits of the strong-willed members of this close-knit society survived the attacks, and today Honningsvag is a wonderful and charming town with no upheaval or unrest. You are sure to have an extraordinary time in this exquisite northern environment, full of aesthetic beauty and friendly Norwegians. The falling snow and crisp, fresh air will clear out your lungs and reinvigorate you into a whole new person. A trip to Honningsvag is a blissful and life-affirming adventure.
Tromso
Tromso is the largest city in northern Norway. After much archaeological study, Tromso is thought to date back 9,000 years. Today it is a technologically advanced city that still maintains an aura of charm and simplicity even in the midst of its bustling activity and industry. Tromso boasts of having a population of well over 50,000, and the most tourism annually in the country.
This is a cosmopolitan city that, because of its thriving nightlife and reputation for fun, has earned itself the nickname Little Paris. It is the kind of place where tourists and locals alike stay up and socialize all night, then somehow manage to work and explore the town during the daytime hours. Like most all of Norway, Tromso is as picturesque as can be. It is famous for its snow-capped cliffs and is ground zero for many polar expeditions that leave from the city. However, the climate here is not harsh in the least. The city maintains a nice climate throughout most of the year and never feels as cold as it may look. During summer months, daylight lasts well into the late evening, giving people there even more reason to stay up late and enjoy their surroundings.
Tromso is a busy port of call where tourists and traders come in and out constantly. It is a fishing town, with its main exports being shrimp and herring. As you might imagine, this makes for some spectacularly succulent dining possibilities. The streets are always filled with workers and tourists, and everywhere you look there is something new that you have yet to taste, hear, smell, see, or touch. This city appeals to the senses in every way imaginable. With glorious scenery, delicious cuisine, friendly locals, and high quality Norwegian goods, you will be hard pressed to experience boredom here.
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