I
have always been that weird soul that always have had this hunger for
the more exciting sides of life. Not in the way that I have been
going to the north pole or exploring the Amazon, but if I got told
that there was something I couldn't do or wasn't allowed to do, you
can bet your sweet behind that I would do my best to achieve it. At
times and especially during my childhood these adventures could be
borderline insane or directly dangerous. Like the times we built
rafts to cross the fjord with or went exploring in areas that usually
were off limit for the public. This could be old world war 2 bunkers,
old fisheries or play wargames with actual dangerous weapons that we
made ourself.
In
later years, this has in many ways developed into my fascination with
exploring “new” cultures and countries around the globe, but I
would say that the spark that lit the fuse had to be my many holidays
up north in Norway and especially Lofoten. The first trip was when I
was in the age of 6 or 7, but got more frequent like multiple times
every year after I got married. We could spend like several months at
the time and just enjoy our lives. My then father-in-law had this
huge property (something like 750 acres) that included a massive
shoreline, mountains and our own lake as well. It was a literal
paradise for us and especially during the summer season.
The
first things that come to mind when I think about Lofoten are
fishing, the amazing midnight sun and insanely beautiful scenery (yes
this is during the summer months). You guys that already have had a
Lofoten experience would know what I am talking about here. For me,
this area of Norway is pure paradise, but of course, the weather
could be really bad at times as well. This would be true especially
during the winter months. Because after months of almost no darkness
comes months of almost no light, or the short period of daylight you
get has a blue tint to it and only last for a few hours. Northern
parts of Norway is something you could call the “nation” of
contrasts.
For
the most part, very few tourists venture into these parts during the
winter season, or they usually start to slowly return around March
when there is this huge international fishing competition, but sadly
this is one event that I haven't had the pleasure of being a part of.
So by mentioning this annual event just shows how an important role
the ocean and fishing plays in this region. Think about it, when they
arrange something like a world cup in cod-fishing. I am not sure how
big of an event this is when it comes to attendees, but I would guess
it in the hundreds coming in from all over the world. Just to have it
said, when I go out fishing, its not really about the catch, but for
the peace and quiet.
My
love and fascination for Lofoten started as mentioned back in my
early childhood, around age 7 or 8. Back then I went with my parents
and siblings, but the activities were the same. Every night we went
fishing, but back then it was in a close-by lake and not the big and
wild ocean. I guess it was safer for us kids and yes, we always went
home with a catch. For me when I think about Lofoten, my thoughts
usually drifts off to my many fishing memories. Even when I look back
at the ones that got created when I returned as an adult, but these
are more vivid memories. The fun part is that I cant remember one day
during my many trips that didn't include fishing in one way or the
other.
At
the same time and I feel this is something that I view as important
when it comes to Lofoten, fishing isn't the only “good” thing.
Just look at any travel photo or video from the area. Just look at
the close to magical scenery. Those insane mountains that seem like
crashing into the sea, the clear blue ocean, exciting culture and
rich history going back to the good old Viking days. There is even a
Viking “village” that is part of what we call the Lofotr Viking
Museum. This contains a full-size longhouse, animals and within
opening hours also local actors and guides and yes its a
reconstructed longhouse. The sad part is that I never got to enjoy
it, just passing either on my way to or from Leknes.
The
point I am trying to make here is simple, this is the most amazing
region of Norway. Just take the pristine and close to untouched
scenery. Up to this day, I have a hard time finding a place, city or
country that I have visited through my many years as a traveller that
can compete with Lofoten. Maybe the one destination that comes the
closest has to be the Azores all the way down in the south Atlantic.
I would say that both are unique and amazing, but hands down and
without a doubt the winner is Lofoten. I guess this is the old
patriotism playing up in me. Anyway, if you are planning a trip to
northern parts of Norway, there are two items you can't forget to
pack, loads of waterproof clothing and fishing gear.
If
there is one thing you can take from this blog post is that you
haven't visited Lofoten yet, then its high time for you to put it on
the top spot on your bucket list and make it your highest travel
priority. Just keep in mind that Norway is extremely expensive. One
thing is for sure, when I at one point in time return home to Norway,
this would be one of the first things I will do. I will more or less
go straight up to Lofoten and visit my relatives that still live
there and naturally go fishing. My cousins have really been nagging
on me about a visit the past few years. The truth is that I haven't
been up there since my divorce back in 2009/10, that is actually a
decade ago.
P.s:
you can actually check out my friend's blog. She has been blogging
for years and have loads of exciting photos and focuses on a broad
spectre of topics. So check out her blog (Mookieslife) and let her
know that I sent you. Thank you for the photos Mookie. I do
appreciate them greatly.
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