Shopping In Norway and Iceland

 

I was delighted with the gorgeous hand knits available in the port stops in Norway and Iceland.  The designs seemed so familiar.  They have such classic beauty.  They are expensive, but as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for…”

I purchased some Icelandic Wear merino wool long underwear in pink.  It has a sweet snowflake design.  I have been wearing the top and bottoms as a base layer regularly.  I was a little shocked at the price tag when I arrived at the cash register, but they are a hearty basic that will get a lot of use.  

I stopped in this little bakery for a mug of tea, a cheese scone, and to check my email.  The atmosphere was very homey, with plush, comfortable chairs, a wood burning oven, and happy travelers.  You could feel the history and the charm.  It was just a short walk from the ship!

The art and sculpture made me chuckle.  This little guy holding his flag is such a character.  I definitely would like to take this cruise again.  The itinerary and the Norwegian Prima were spectacular.

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Warm Clothes For Winter

 

While in Norway, I purchased one of their beautiful traditional sweaters.  It is so warm, thick and cozy!

The matching gloves are exceptional quality.  I have been wearing them in the mountains, they are double knit.

The above slippers are from a quaint shop carrying lovely hand knits in Iceland.

These gorgeous hand knit sweaters are made with Icelandic wool.  They really cut the wind and insulate the body.  I have been wearing layers each day, and have put the flannel sheets back on the bed.  The throws that I knit and crocheted add a comforting warmth as we sleep.

How is the weather where you live?  Are you making soups and stews?  Hope you are staying warm, or cool for the Aussies.

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Making Friends on a Tour or Cruise

 

On my last cruise, I made a few friends from both the pre-cruise tour and by being on the ship.  This woman lives in Florida, but she is from Puerto Rico.  She invited me to dinner with her in the specialty restaurants on three different nights. She is an avid cruiser, and a Platinum member.  The dinners were delicious, and we had wonderful conversations.   She told me she wouldn’t have gone on her own, and her gift certificates were for two.  It pays to be loyal to a cruise line.  We were on the Norwegian Prima.  I love this ship! 

We also ran into each other while waiting to board the bus back to the ship after one of the London tours.  We sat near The Tower of London Gift Shop and discussed our impressions of the city and its history.  I picked up some salted caramel biscuits to give to my friends who had me to dinner at their flat.

I loved this cafe with the rooftop garden in Norway.  It was right next to a lake.  We had lunch nearby with our tour group.  

The fjords were awe inspiring.  I absolutely loved the energy and incredible nature in Norway.  I definitely plan  to return.  

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Holland, Clogs, and Windmills

 

One of my favorite stops on our cruise was a tour of a place where they still make and sell wooden clogs.  The tour leader explained that some of the Dutch still wear them for gardening.  They are hard and strong, apparently very sturdy in the mud. I remember as a little girl my aunt bringing me a pair after her trip to The Netherlands.  I loved them.

These were some of the antique clogs on display.  I was so impressed.

They also sold wooden tulips as a decoration.  They look so pretty in a vase, on the dining table.  One of the ladies on our cruise set them with her guests at dinner, as a centerpiece. 

It was a special and quaint day trip.  I love taking the excursions when I travel.  All you have to do is show up and get on the bus.  Everything is organized for you.  

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