~ Money matters
One very important aspect of the trip that we were unaware about was the fact that every country accepts only their local currency. Which means, for a person like me who had been hopping from one country to another it was absolutely inconvenient to queue up at money transfer counters everyday other day.
Nevertheless, Ria money transfer is the best money exchange store in Scandinavia and had the best prices. The best way to spend money is via a credit card. Right from buying a bottle of coke to booking your hotel, credit cards are accepted everywhere. Make sure you're going tax-free while using your card too. You can exchange a slip for cash at the airport before departing, but make sure you're doing that in the same country.
~Walk/cycle
The worst decision you can make while moving around the city is using the taxi or public transport. Especially the metro was very expensive. Since, cycles are available for hire almost everywhere and the cities are relatively small you should definitely opt for cycling or walking. Honestly, walking is the most genuine way to explore a city, it's people, the culture and the food scene. Cities like Copenhagen and Helsinki are also explored very well via ferries, give that a shot too!
~ Pack warm
Whether it is summer or winter, the temperatures are always low. Especially for Indians, the summer season too is unbearable. Carry thermals, warm jackets, extra t-shirts and comfortable shoes with thick socks if you're going to walk on snow and glaciers. Also, carry waterproofs because it can rain anytime.
~ When to visit?
May-August is the best time to visit Scandic countries. I was lucky enough to bask under the sun for almost my entire trip along with experiencing the midnight sun. If you want to experience the ice and snow, that too is available minus the skiing. Have a look at the temperatures prior to planning your dates because trust me you don't want to be shivering in the cold and have zero visibility in the fog!
~ Prefer Waterways
One of the best journeys we had during the trip was the ones we had in the ferries. The gorgeous fjords and secluded towns by the coast were just amazing to look at. Since I didn't travel via the rails I don't know if it is worth it, as far as I know, it is moderately priced and has stunning views too. We took innumerable ferries in this trip including the ones from one town to another with our vehicle. It was really efficient and worth it! Especially in cities like Helsinki and Copenhagen, a ferry guided tour is a must to see a different side of the city.
~ Travelling by road
So we traveled to all the towns in Norway via road which wasn't a bad decision at all! We saw the most beautiful sights including the vast expanse of Norwegian ice and the gushing the flow of white water while doing so and the tourist friendly pit stops and cozy cafes on the way are just fantastic add-ons. The roads are safe too.
~ Invest in a good local guide
Most of the times you'll find it tough to get around the city because of language issues. It is of course great to explore on your own, but hiring a local guide who is well acquainted with the local language and culture can sure be handy! Here's a picture of us with our guide whom we nicknamed "Mr.Trump" because his original name was too difficult to pronounce and rhymed with Trump!
~ Deadlines
When planning your day keep in mind that almost everything in the city shuts post 6:30/7. It is definitely odd for me because I'm the kind of person who always plans post 7! Mainly the malls and shopping outlets shut at 6:30 pm so make sure you're early for your shopping sprees.
~Save money on water
The water in Scandinavian countries is one of the purest. It is said that their bathing water is purer than India's drinking water! Keeping in mind that tap water is absolutely safe, you can save a lot of bucks on bottles.
~ Last but not the least, click loads of photos! The scenic beauty can't be captured even with the best dslr's, but nevertheless these memories can surely last forever!
~ Last but not the least, click loads of photos! The scenic beauty can't be captured even with the best dslr's, but nevertheless these memories can surely last forever!
Let's be friends, find me on social media!
~ Twitter
~ Roposso app: @JuweriaJilani
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Mail me : ria_juweria@yahoo.co.in
Thanks for reading!
