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.
Surabaya
Surabaya is the capital city of East Java Province, Indonesia. It is Indonesia's second largest city, trailing only Jakarta. It is growing rapidly, and today over 3 million people call Surabaya home. The dense population of the city helps to make it a place booming with stores, restaurants, and historical sites. Located in the northeast corner of Java, Surabaya serves as a major port of call for trading and tourism for all of Asia. It is a highly industrial city is known for its ship making and textiles. Other exports include sugar, coffee, and tapioca.
Kublai Khan captured Surabaya in the 13th century, and from then on, it held a vital place in Indonesia's history. During WWII, Surabaya was again captured, this time by Japanese troops, and was nearly demolished when the Dutch attempted to regain their claim to the land. Natives resisted the attacks by raising the Indonesian flag, thereby seceding from their colonial past and gaining independence. That is why Indonesians know Surabaya as the City of Heroes. Today, November 10th is a holiday in Surabaya, as the city pauses to celebrate its strong will and the courage of its founders.
Tourists will find this to be a city that takes great pride in its past. Historical sites and monuments dot the city and give visitors a feel for the richness of Surabaya's history. Surabaya also serves as a gateway to the nearby island of Madura, and is also quite close in proximity to Mt. Bromo, a great place to visit. So, whether you choose to stay in Surabaya or take a day trip to a nearby area, the fascinating story and culture of Surabaya will certainly please you.
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