The Finnmark 40 Years Anniversary Race invites competitors from all over Europe. The 2020 race keeps the tradition, which means the longest dog sled race in Europe takes place in Norway in week 10, starting on Thursday 5 March. The Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg will officially open the race this year.
Alaska has its manhood test Iditarod. Norway has the longest dog-sled race in Europe, the Finnmark Race, challenging dogs and mushers to explore the limits of their capabilities to perform.
challenging dogs and mushers to explore the limits of their capabilities to perform at the Finnmark Race. Photo: Finnmarksløpet
The Finnmark Race is a big event all over the Finnmark region. Alta and Kirkenes are the venues for the biggest events. The start in Alta is probably the place to be, while Kirkenes is the best place to see a checkpoint and all the logistics around the race.
745 miles across snowy Finnmark
1,200 kilometers (745 miles) with 14 or 8 dogs per sled over 5-6 days will cross snowy Finnmark: 160 teams and more than 1500 dogs will take part in Finnmark Race, a great test of strength and a great winter festival on the roof of Europe. The dogs as well as mushers must be top-trained, but also the dogs need trust and dedication to the mushers to perform.
Ole H. I. Eira and his dogs.
The Finnmark Race takes place every year in March and starts in Alta, crosses Finnmark to Kirkenes and ends back in Alta. It is not only Europe’s longest, but also the world’s northernmost sled dog race.
Without stop from start to finish
There are no stages in the Finnmark Race – it goes without stopping from start to finish. While there are of course obligatory rest breaks, they take place when the teams reach designated checkpoints. The musher must not only work while racing, but also when the checkpoints are reached. He or she must prioritize the dogs before resting. The dogs need good care, plenty of attention, food and rest.
The winner takes around five days and 10 hours to complete the race in good weather conditions, while the last teams cross the finishing line after seven days.
The Alaska husky
The Alaska husky is a dog with very special characteristics; there is no other dog in the world capable of transporting people quickly over long distances. A 25 kg (55 lb) husky needs up to 10,000 calories a day, while a man needs around 2,500. The 500 km race is run with teams of eight dogs each, while the 1,000 km race uses teams of 14 dogs.
A total of 11 veterinarians carry out health checks on the dogs throughout the race, and retire any which should not run any further. If too few dogs are left, the team has to withdraw. There is rarely disagreement between the veterinarians and the mushers, for the mushers keep a close eye on how their four-legged friends are faring.
Geir Stian A. Larsen and his dogs. Photo: Finnmarksløpet
The Longest Dog Sled Race in Europe Takes Place in Norway
The Finnmark terrain is as though made for sled dog racing, with gentle slopes, flat plateaus and forest-clad valleys, which allows the dogs to get up plenty of speed.
The Longest Dog Sled Race in Europe Takes Place in Norway, compiled by Tor Kjolberg
Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark married Mary Donaldson on 14 May 2004 in Copenhagen Cathedral. The couple has four children, Prince Christian, Princess Isabella, Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine. We have collected a series of private photos to accompany a modern “fairytale” romance between a prince and a commoner. Se the private photos of the Danish royal couple.
Prince Frederik of Denmark was visiting Australia during the 2000 Summer Olympics there and met Donaldson at the Slip Inn Pub in Sydney. They conducted a long-distance relationship and Frederik made a number of discreet visits to Australia. On 15 November 2001 the Danish weekly magazine Billed-Bladet named her as Frederik’s girlfriend, and Mary Donaldson moved from Australia to Denmark in December same year.
The Royal couple in their private balcony at the National Theatre, Copenhagen. Photo: Pinterest
A Fairytale romance
The couple announced their engagement in 2003 after Frederik had presented her with an engagement ring featuring an emerald-cut diamond and two emerald-cut ruby baguettes, which are similar to the colors of Denmark’s flag and Donaldson started to study Danish as a foreign language in Copenhagen. The couple’s marriage in 2004 was extensively portrayed by Australian and European media as a modern “fairytale” romance between a prince and a commoner. “I am so happy that you swept me off my feet,” she said to her husband.
The couple lives in Frederik VII’s mansion in Amalienborg Palace, Copenhagen. Photo: PinterestFrom Frederik VIIIs-mansion in Amalienborg Palace. Photo: PinterestThe Crown Princess and her family currently reside at Frederik VIII’s Palace, one of the four palaces that make up the Amalienborg Palace complex. Photo: Pinterest
Donaldson wore a wedding gown designed by Danish designer Uffe Frank and had a small bridal party which included her two sisters and her friend Amber Petty, a radio announcer on commercial radio in Australia. The couple reportedly spent their honeymoon in Africa.
During a Council of State on 2 October 2019, the Queen’s request to appoint Mary a rigsforstander, a functioning regent when the monarch or the heir is out of the country, was approved by the government Photo: Keld Navntoft 2019/Kongehuset
Crown Princess Mary of Denmark
The Danish Folketing (parliament) passed a special law (Mary’s Law) giving Donaldson Danish citizenship upon her marriage, a standard procedure for new foreign members of the royal family.
Crown-princess Mary of Denmark together with Crown-prince Haakon of Norway. Photo: Kongehuset
Following the wedding the couple embarked upon a summer working-tour of mainland Denmark aboard the royal yacht Dannebrog, then travelled to Greenland and later to the 2004 Athens Olympics.
Crown-princess Mary takes part in home defence exercise on Bornholm 2013. Photo: Kongehuset
Hans Christian Andersen Ambassador
In 2005, during the celebrations for the 200th anniversary of Hans Christian Andersen, the royal family was involved in related events throughout the year. Frederik and Mary marked the anniversary in London, New York and in Australia, where she was made Honorary Hans Christian Andersen Ambassador to Australia in the Utzon Room of the Sydney Opera House. In 2005 the royal family visited the Faroe Islands.
In September 2007, she formally established the Mary Foundation, with capital from public and private donations, to advance cultural diversity and encourage a sense of the right to belong and contribute to society for those who are socially isolated or excluded.
Woman of the Year
Mary was voted Woman of the Year 2008 by a Danish magazine, Alt for damerne, donating her cash reward to charity. Mary is an active patron of Denmark’s third-highest-earning export industry, the fashion industry, and is Patron of the Copenhagen Fashion Summit. She has been named one of the world’s most fashionable people in Vanity Fair’s annual International Best-Dressed List and has posed and given interviews for several international fashion magazines.
Since becoming Crown Princess of Denmark, H. H. Mary has made a number of international visits. In November 2009 Mary made a surprise visit to Danish soldiers in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
World Pride Patron
In 2016, on the International Day Against Homophobia and Transphobia, the Crown Princess gave a speech on LGBT rights at a forum in Copenhagen hosted by the Danish government. She called for an end to discrimination, oppression, and violence against people because of their sexual orientation and gender identity. She thus became the first ever member of the royal family to attend the Danish Rainbow Awards (2018). She also attended the awards ceremony in 2019, where it was announced that Crown Princess Mary will serve as the patron of World Pride Copenhagen 2021, making her the first ever royal to serve as patron for a major LGBT event.
During a Council of State on 2 October 2019, the Queen’s request to appoint Mary a rigsforstander, a functioning regent when the monarch or the heir is out of the country, was approved by the government. After having sworn to respect the Danish constitution, she became the first person not born into the royal family to assume the position of rigsforstander since Queen Ingrid in 1972.
The adorable snaps were taken by the proud mother, 47, over the past few months, presumably in Denmark
Adorable kids – private photos of the royal Danish couple
Crown Princess Mary of Denmark recently shared four previously unseen photos of twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine to mark their ninth birthday. The adorable snaps were taken by the proud mother, 47, over the past few months, presumably in Denmark.
Crown Princess Mary of Denmark recently shared four previously unseen photos of twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine to mark their ninth birthday
The Crown Princess and her family currently reside at Frederik VIII’s Palace, one of the four palaces that make up the Amalienborg Palace complex. From May 2004, they have also resided at the Chancellery House, a building in the park at Fredensborg Palace, during the summer months.
Danish princess with horse
A Crown-Princess’ Life in Denmark
In December last year, in a candid interview with Australian Women’s Weekly, the Crown Princess revealed that moving to the other side of the world was difficult.
‘I did experience a feeling of loneliness – short-term – when I first moved to Denmark. Moving to Denmark was a huge change in my life – a new culture, new language, new friends, and another way of life. So, I see it as quite natural that at times I felt quite alone or a little bit like I was on the outside looking in,’ she told the magazine.
Private Photos of Danish Royal Couple, compiled by Tor Kjolberg
Portraiture has evolved alongside civilization, from painting onto stone in ancient Egypt through depicting royal families and religious figures to photography-like portraits. Today, many artists are pushing the age-old genre in new directions. Here are portraits of four contemporary Norwegian portrait painters who put a modern twist on the age-old genre.
Let’s begin our portraiture by describing the enfant terrible of contemporary art in Norway, Unni Askeland.
Unni Asdkeland
Unni Askeland
Unni Askeland has been shocking the politically correct Norwegian establishment both with her works and her sometimes bohemian lifestyle. She was born in Bergen (1962) and studied at the Art School in Kabelvåg, the Academy of Western Norway, Bergen and graduated from the National Academy of Fine Art in Oslo in 1992.
At the Academy’s Graduate Exhibition Askeland showed Waiting for Picasso, a painting depicting herself in the company of artists such as Edvard Munch, Frida Kahlo, Lena Cronquist and Francesco Clemente. Her visits to New York studios of Brice Marden and Francesco Clemente have been crucial for the development of her so-called Neo-Expressionist movement.
Unni Askeland’s Munch adoption ‘Jalousy’
When she was meddling with Edvard Munch’s famous “soul paintings” from the 1890s, in 2004, it caused something of a scandal in the Norwegian milieu. Later she depicted icons of the 20th century like Marilyn Monroe, Mae West and Courtny Love with an obvious reference to the pop art of Andy Warhol.
In 2008, when a series of images inspired by the famous movie Casablanca was aquierd by the National Museum of Art in Oslo, it stirred a new debate, not only about the artist, but also about the museum.
Kristoffer Evang Kristoffer Evang was born in Oslo and was a student of portrait painter Eirik Lütken.
“For me, the eyes are very important. I want to bring out a kindness and vulnerability in the eyes,” says the artist. Evang’s picturesque expression can be defined as contemporary realism and is inspired by American “contemporary realism” although he has a deep knowledge of traditional figurative painting. Through the portrait, which traditionally represents high culture, Evang connects the past with the present. However, what distinguishes these from each other? What happens when you show street art within the gallery’s protective walls? Does street art despise authorities? Does that character change or does street art become a part of the institution the former opposed?
Helene Knoop
Helene Knoop is born in Drøbak in 1979 and is one of Norway’s foremost contemporary figurative painters.
She lives and works in Oslo and calls herself a “Litch-painter” and says good Kitch involves pathos, poetry, drama ans sincerety – all communicated through the mastery of craft. From 2000 to 2003 she studied with the world-renowned Norwegian figurative painter Odd Nerdrum.
In recent years, she has continued to refine her skill, and she has developed her focus on the human figure by studying ancient sculpture in Italy. Knoop always paints from a live model, and she paints the Nordic landscape in plein air.
She is one of the founders of www.worldwidekitsch.com, and she organized the Kitsch Biennale in Munich 2008, and in Venice 2010.
Knoop has had several successful solo exhibitions, including shows in London, Stockholm, and New York. Knoop’s paintings are represented in collections in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, England, Italy, Nicaragua, and the U.S.A.
Marius Martinussen Marius Martinussen (born 1978) graduated with a master’s degree from the Academy of Fine Arts in Trondheim. He is a painter and graphic artist, and is known for his colorful style with references to pop art, expressionism and modernist abstraction. He often works with the dynamic culture and color spectrum of popular culture.
A portrait, by Marius Martinussen
Martinussen has a large number of separate and group exhibitions behind him both in Norway and abroad. Previously purchased by among others Statoil Hydro, the Norwegian Bank, the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association and the Norwegian Cultural Council.
Portraits of Four Contemporary Norwegian Portrait Painters We hope you liked our mini portraits of four Norwegian portrait painters.
Feature image (on top): Urban, by Unni Askeland
Portraits of Four Contemporary Norwegian Portrait Painters, compiled by Tor Kjolberg
Norwegian sound engineer Morten Lindberg (born 1970) was nominated for Grammy Award 28 times before he finally won. Last month, he was awarded a Grammy for “Best Immersive Audio Album” for the release “Lux”. Read more about the Grammy given to the Norwegian sound engineer.
Morten Lindberg has specialized in Nordic classical music productions and holds the record for most Grammy nominations without a win, with 28 through 2019. The release “Lux” is performed by chamber orchestra Tondheimsolistene and Nidarosdomens Jentekor (Girls Choir of the Nidaros Cathedral) conducted by Anita Brevik.
The album LUX, awarded a Grammy for “Best Immersive Audio Album”.
Master of Surround Sound Lindberg is in charge of the sound studio, production company and record label 2L and is known for his “surround sound”, a larger, three-dimensional sound. He prefers to do his recordings in the Nidaros Cathedral and other large church rooms and concert halls. He has also worked with Vladimir Ashkenazy.
A pioneer
Though Lindberg has been nominated in other categories such as “Best Engineered Album – Classical”, he is a true veteran of the Immersive Audio category. He is in fact something of a pioneer when it comes to experimental classical music constructed in a stunning surround sound environment.
Lindberg is in charge of the sound studio, production company and record label 2L
Grammy to Norwegian Sound Engineer
“Lux” is the third release from the 2L Label, released last year. Lindberg was also nominated for the category “Best producer”. However, that award was secured by the award-winning producer Blanton Alspaugh.
Grammy to Norwegian Sound Engineer, written by Tor Kjolberg
The countries of Scandinavia are famous not only for their high standard of living in Europe but also for quite high prices. Yes, there is something to see. But how can you make your trip budget?Meet Scandinavian Countries with Eurail Pass.
The first thing you should start with is to plan a trip and calculate the expenses that await you. Get ready for high prices for food, accommodation, and of course, transport. That is why let’s consider whether it is profitable to go to Scandinavia with the Eurail Pass.
Eurail Scandinavia Pass– Some Features to Take into Account It’s worth starting with the fact that if you are a European citizen, you can travel with the Interrail Pass. This way you can save even more money than you expect.
Well, foreigners can use the Eurail Pass. Eurail presents different types of passes not only for the countries you want to visit but also for the duration of days. Why is it worth considering for a trip to Scandinavia? Because you can immediately visit 4 countries without additional passes purchase. Firstly, it is convenient, secondly, it is profitable.
Therefore, if you plan to visit Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland, then this is a great option. But if you want to travel outside Scandinavia then you should consider the Global Pass.
Why is it better to choose a railway? Here are the main advantages that you get when choosing such transport:
By far, this is the safest mode of transport, which will relieve you from stress while traveling. No traffic jams, convenient schedule, the ability to choose night and day trips.
Stations are located in the city center and have a convenient location for tourists. Hotels are usually located near train stations, and this does not require additional transport costs.
In large cities, it’s easy to go straight from the airport to the train station.
The wagons of the European railway are spacious and comfortable. There are spacious windows, air conditioning, and good service.
You can immediately visit 4 countries without additional passes purchase
Is Eurail Pass Suitable for Traveling in Scandinavia? This is one of the best options apart from renting a car. With Eurail Pass, you have absolute freedom to choose when you want to continue your journey further. You can make a decision at the last minute. This is very true when traveling around Scandinavia. Since you may immediately want to stay at a certain place for more time. Well, this is absolutely not a problem.
You pay for the Eurail Pass once and do it before you start your journey. Everything is very simple, but on the official website, there is detailed information, instructions and support service that will help you if you encounter any difficulties. The main thing is not to forget to read all the rules. Even if you are having difficulty translating any information,The Word Point translations service will help solve this problem.
With the one purchase Eurail Pass, you do not need to buy tickets for each country. The main thing is to have time to use your ticket within a month. Moreover, the Eurail Pass implies various discounts and bonuses. And this will once again help you save money.
If you calculate the cost of each ticket for each country, you will notice that you can save a lot with Eurail Pass. And for those who are going to visit Scandinavia on a budget, saving is becoming #1 priority.
What to Consider When Traveling to Norway? Let’s look at a few recommendations about which avid travelers speak with one voice. Spontaneous trips to Norway portend serious costs. But if you approach the planning of the trip with all responsibility, then there are chances to make the trip budget. So, here are the main recommendations from the guru of travelers to Scandinavia:
Cafe menu Denmark
Go to Scandinavia in the summer. This is the most profitable time when you can get to many places and save money. At another time of the year, there will be a large influx of tourists, and in winter many routes can simply be closed due to snowfalls.
Restaurants and cafes are too expensive. It is much more profitable to purchase products in a store than to eat in restaurants. But of course, the prices in stores are also not cheap compared to some European countries, but much lower than buying lunch in a cafe. So think in advance of the food expenses column.
In Norway, you can pitch a tent in any place that is not fenced. By the way, you are able to save money on hotels with the help of campsites. This is the most budget option of housing, which is equipped with everything necessary. There are not only tents but even small houses. This type of accommodation is great for a short trip. So if you need to stay somewhere before your next trip with the Eurail Pass, consider this type of accommodation.
The Final Thoughts If you decide to look at the beauties of the Scandinavian countries, you just need to get to know the Eurail Pass better. As you noticed, this is not a bad option to make your trip safe, convenient and less costly.
All you need to decide is when you want to go on a trip, and the best time for this would be summer. And of course, familiarize yourself with the conditions that Eurail Pass offers you. Most tourists prefer to use this type of transport and according to their impressions, this is a good solution. Well, all that remains for you is to check their impressions personally!
Frank Hamilton
Meet Scandinavian Countries with Eurail Pass, is written for Daily Scandinavian by Frank Hamilton. Frank is a blogger and translator from Manchester. He is a professional writing expert in such topics as blogging, digital marketing and self-education. He also loves traveling and speaks Spanish, French, German and English.
Stockholm has become a staple location for the hipster tourist movement, a place that marries urban bustle with natural scenery. Stockholm is made up of 14 islands and many distinct neighborhoods, each presenting its own unique identity.Stockholm: Combining Natural Landscapes with the Urban Bustle.
Summer is the ideal time to visit this area, but the winter provides certain tranquility. Some of the most renowned attributes of Stockholm include one’s ability to encounter natural landscapes amongst the city cafes and museums.
Off the Beaten Path
Skeppsholmen, Stockholm. Photo: Wikipedia
Skeppsholmen One of Stockholm’s breathtaking natural landscapes, Skeppsholmen, is a hidden island that is ideal for photography, history, and waterfront views. The entire island is encircled by a walkway that can be completed on foot. Skeppsholmen was used as a military training ground for many years. It has since transformed into a site for museums and art galleries, such as the Modern Museum, or the East Asian museum.
A popular summer event that takes place here is the Stockholm Jazz Festival. The Jazz Festival is one of the oldest and most notable festivals in Stockholm. Skeppsholmen can be accessed by bus or ferry from the city center and is an ideal way to spend the day exploring the rich history of Stockholm.
Skinnarviksberget. Photo: Visit Stockholm
Skinnarviksberget Södermalm, often referred to as Sweden’s version of Brooklyn or Shoreditch, is home to the highest natural point in Stockholm. Here is one of the best-kept secrets due to the 50-minute hike that is required to reach the top. At the top, there is a remarkable view of the sunset and the waterfront. Like most things in Stockholm, this spot is ideal in the summer. During this time, locals and tourists alike picnic, play live music and enjoy a few glasses of wine.
During the winter, if the weather allows, the hike and experience tend to be incredibly peaceful. The best way to access Skinnarviksberget is taking the train to Zinkensdamm, and then completing the rest on foot.
Tantolunden. Photo: Visit Stockholm
Tantolunden Tantolunden is cherished by the locals, given that many tourists are unaware that this park exists. This park is known for its’ family-friendly activities such as Frisbee golf, young people swimming, live music, and afternoon strolls. Hands down, this is the most colorful and flourishing parks in Sweden, due mostly to the long-standing community initiative of hundreds of manicured garden plots.
“An afternoon in Tantolunden is free for people to roam and is an excellent example of the local’s dedication to the natural landscape and laid-back lifestyle. Found in the south part of central Stockholm, it is located near the Hornstull Marknad and Zindkensdamn,” suggests Gillian Smith, a travel blogger at Writinity and Draft Beyond.
Fika in Stockholm. Photo by se huishirley Kim from FreeImages
Café Saturnus Saturnus is a local shop that is located at Eriksbergsgatan 6, 114 30 Stockholm. The most notable attribute of this café is the quality service and impressive display of cakes and buns. Many visitors rave about the buns due to their large and dense nature. Locals tend to value the food options and find this a noteworthy place to honor Fika, a daily break for coffee and a sweet treat.
Vete-Katten Offering a unique and differing experience from the new trend of “hipster” cafes, Vete-Katten is a 1920s style café located at 55 Kungsgatan, 111 22 Stockholm. The specialties of this café range from pastries and afternoon tea to snacks and lunch options.
“The words most commonly used to describe the experience found here are cozy and classic. There is an even split between the number of tourists and locals that visit here,” explains Adam Yiset, a writer at Last Minute Writing and Researchpapersuk. With that being said, the price of the food and drink is quite reasonable. All options can be enjoyed in house or can be requested for carry-out.
An Artistic Experience
WIP Dance Studio, Stockholm
WIP;sthlm Located at 117 43, Årsta skolgränd 14B, 117 43 Stockholm, this spot is home to 93 artists and 83 art studios. Known as a hub of artistic creation, WIP;sthlm is creating a space for discussion and exploration in the art community.
Tunnelbanan Tunnelbanan (the Metro) opened in 1950. Stockholm’s Tunnelbana has 100 stations, and almost half of them are located underground. In the past, Tunnelbanan was significantly impacted by the influx of graffiti art. Over the last few years, Stockholm has remedied this and incorporated art into Tunnelbanan’s infrastructure as a whole. Artwork covers a total of 110 km of the line. The inclusion of this style of art brings an experience beyond the typical commute.
Ashley Halsey
Stockholm: Combining Natural Landscapes with the Urban Bustle is written for Daily Scandinavian by Ashley Halsey. Ashley is a professional writer at Luckyassignments.com and Gumessays.com who has been involved in many projects throughout the country. Mother of two children, she enjoys traveling, reading and attending business training courses. Mother of two children, she enjoys traveling, reading and attending business training courses.
To the world, Norway and seafaring are synonymous. From the age of sail until after World War II, the Norwegian merchant fleet was one of the world’s largest, and Norwegian could be heard in ports worldwide; Norway afloat.
Norwegians seem happiest when they are in, on or around the sea. Each year, more than a third of the population spend their summer holidays partly or completely in craft that range from small dinghies to motor launches and ocean-going yachts.
Norway afloat
In all there are more than 450,000 boats over 4.5 meters (15ft) in length, and an untold number of smaller boats in the country. Most are motor boats, though sailing is popular on the fjords and as a competitive sport.
Sailing in Lofoten. Photo: Lofoten Sailing.
Related: The Norwegian Tall Ship Statsraad Lehmkuhl
Demography and topography are deciding factors
Demography and topography are the deciding factors. There are thousands of islands, and the fjords and coastal archipelagos are a paradise for competitive and recreational sailors, king and commoner alike. King Olav V (1903-91), the father of present King Harald V, was an accomplished sailor who won a gold medal in sailing in the 1928 Olympic Games in Amsterdam, which made him the world’s only Olympic medalist monarch.
Long championship traditions Norway’s first sailing club was founded in1868 in Tønsberg, since when the nation has been a major force in championship sailing and regatta worldwide.
A floating hotel and spa on the Lule River in Swedish Lapland opened its doors to guests last month. The new hotel is built by the same developers as the architecturally significant property Treehouse hotel. The new floating hotel which opened in Northern Sweden is worth a visit – for several reasons.
The floating circular main building is designed by architects Bertil Harström and Johan Kauppi and resembles a bird’s nest with a series of floating and land cabins around it. Situated under the northern lights in winter, and the midnight sun during the summer months, Arctic Bath welcomes guests to immerse themselves in the elements while leaving a minimal environmental footprint behind.
Many people flock to far-flung places in the Northern Hemisphere for a chance to watch the aurora borealis in action
Dancing northern lights If you’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing the northern lights dance with your naked eye, it’s easy to understand why so many people flock to far-flung places in the Northern Hemisphere for a chance to watch the aurora borealis in action.
The spa includes an outdoor cold bath, set to a chilly 39 degrees Fahrenheit all year round. Travelers bold enough to jump into the frigid waters can cool off with a door directly available from the sauna or the two on-deck hot tubs. There are also hot baths, saunas, and treatment rooms, as well as a restaurant focusing on local sustainable produce.
Floating and frozen depending on season Arctic Bath was first conceived in 2010 during the opening of Treehotel. Bertil Hagström, who designed Treehotel’s The Bird’s Nest, took over the idea and in 2013. He and Johan Kauppi designed Arctic Bath’s floating, circular building which floats freely 18 meters from the shore in the Lule river, situated downstream from the bridges of Bodträskfors, alternating between frozen and floating depending on season.
The surrounding nature is incorporated into the cabins and suites through natural, sustainable materials
The hotel is situated a 10-minute drive away in Harads, Sweden. There are also 12 standalone cabins, six on the water and six on land. Each structure is built from local materials and has been designed to minimize its impact on the environment.
Besides the main floating building, the hotel features a series of water and land cabins, each designed with a high level of comfort and luxury in mind, while keeping with the overall wellness focus.
Surrounding nature incorporated into the cabins
The surrounding nature is incorporated into the cabins and suites through natural, sustainable materials with a rich history such as wood, stone, leather and luxurious textiles that harmonize together with Scandinavian design. On water, the cabins contain only 24 sqm (258 square feet) of indoor space that house a double bed, a stove for heat, and a full bath, connected to the shore by floating walkways. The 57,5 sqm (619-square-foot) wood deck outside the cabin offers a perfect place for meditation, sunbathing in summer or spotting the northern light in winter.
There are also 12 standalone cabins, six on the water and six on land
New Floating Hotel Opened in Northern Sweden
The 62 sqm land cabins for five persons are elevated on poles and situated on the shore among vegetation connected by walkways. The 62 sqm suite for two persons features a spiral staircase leading to a loft, as well as an 8 sqm deck for meditation, morning coffee or just relaxation.
For the decor of the cabins, designer Ann Kathrin Lundqvist channeled Scandinavian minimalism with simple forms and a muted palette of soft pastels.
Scandinavia is ideally among the most idyllic places in the world. Boasting fantastic mountains, beautiful coastline, jaw-dropping fjords, postcard-worthy farmland, super-efficient cities, and sociable locals, it is no surprise that it is a favourite destination for backpackers and students. Explore the top 9 hostels in Scandinavia for backpackers and students.
Unfortunately, Scandinavia is infamously expensive. For numerous travellers, the notion of backpacking Scandinavia for several days is a severe wallet-draining fantasy, particularly when it comes to accommodation.
Fortunately, if you are traveling on a budget, Scandinavia hostels are among the most budget-friendly accommodation options for students and backpackers. So, next time you are backpacking Scandinavia here is a list of nine of the best hostels for students and backpackers.
City backpacker hostel, Stockholm
City Backpackers Hostel, Stockholm
A conveniently affordable hostel for students and backpackers, the Stockholm, Sweden-based City Backpackers hostel is all you need for affordable and comfortable accommodation.
This hostel is conveniently located close to the bus terminal and central train station. Moreover, it is close to the main shopping area and the old town in Stockholm. City Backpackers offers all sorts of activities for guests along with free sauna, pasta nights, and regular movie nights.
Lastly, these hostels provide dorms that accommodate between four to twelve individuals, and if you want some more privacy and space, it offers twin and single private rooms. Furthermore, there are three apartment choices with their kitchen and which can accommodate sleep for up to eight persons.
Generator hostel, Copenhagen
Generator, Copenhagen
Next time you are in Copenhagen, Denmark, the Generator Copenhagen is a fun and safe hostel for students and backpackers. It is a spacious and great option, especially considering that it is centrally located close to virtually anything you may want to do and see. Besides the friendly staff and fun lounge and bar area suited for hanging out, this hostel features dorms that can accommodate six to eight individuals.
Furthermore, if you want some more privacy and space, several private rooms vary in size and include doubles, singles, twins, and six, four, and three-bed units.
Saga Poshtel Oslo Central, Oslo
The Oslo Hostel Central is a fantastic option for any backpacker or student searching for a modern, relatively affordable spot to stay in Oslo. Although the rooms are rather small, they are quite comfortable and clean. Their dorms allow between four to twelve individuals, with virtually everything in between. You will also find private twin rooms for those that need more privacy and space.
Marken Gjestehus Hostel, Bergen
Marken Gjestehus Hostel, Bergen
The Norway-based Marken Gjestehus hostel in Bergen is a tranquil, safe, and inexpensive hostel accommodation option that makes a fantastic base for not only exploring the city but also viewing the numerous attractions and sights. This hostel boasts a total of 22 rooms inclusive of dorm spaces that sleep between four, eight, or even ten individuals in addition to private twin rooms.
What’s more, the hostel is characterized by a tranquil and friendly atmosphere with multiple facilities for guests, including a TV lounge, a full kitchen, and several laundry facilities.
Linnéplatsens Hotel & Hostel, Gothenburg Unlike other typical hostels as outlined in the list, the Linnéplatsens Hotel & Hostel stands out from the rest because it is both a hostel and a hotel. This hostel, which is based in Gothenburg, Sweden, features dorm rooms that accommodate up to six individuals, with each dorm room separated by gender.
The establishment also includes private double, twin, and six or four bedrooms. Besides being reasonably-priced, these rooms are also quite comfortable and clean. Finally, the hostel provides a shared kitchen where guests can conveniently prepare their meals.
Castanea Old Town Hostel, Stockholm
Castanea Old Town Hostel, Stockholm
Castanea in Stockholm is an esteemed hostel renowned for its cozy, quiet, and relaxing setting. Every room is fitted with large windows to allow natural light, while the rooms boast a comfortable bed, standard reading light, and essential amenities such as a public computer, common room, and Wi-Fi connection in the common spaces.
Ideally, it affords the ideal settings and amenities, especially for students who want to focus on their coursework. In fact, even if you are away from the guidance of your tutor and are having problems with your paper, you need not worry. The Wi-Fi and computer connections mean that you have access to online resources and writing services to guide you on how to write with Essayontime being among the many resourceful websites you can visit.
Although it is relatively small, it offers the choice between private rooms and dorms for your delight. It features twin, single, six, and four-bed private rooms with the dorms ably accommodating between four to sixteen individuals, in addition to the convenience of a guest kitchen.
STF/HI Vandrarhem Malmö City
Ideally suited for backpackers and students alike, the Malmo City-based STF/HI Vandrarhem hostel is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a modern place to unwind without breaking the bank.
This hostel features multiple different room options with dorms separated by gender, and that accommodate either four or six individuals. Furthermore, for anyone looking for more privacy and doesn’t mind spending some extra funds, numerous private rooms accommodate between two and four individuals.
Interhostel, Stockholm
Interhostel, Stockholm
The Interhostel is a cozy, clean, and fantastic Stockholm-based hostel. It is the ideal stopover for any money-conscious student or backpacker. The hostel’s location is what renders it remarkable as it is situated within the epicenter of Stockholm’s historical center, which is a convenient walking distance to Old Town, Opera House, and the famous Drottninggatan shopping-central.
What’s more, if you are traveling with your colleagues or a group, the private dorm is a fantastic option as it not only helps you cut costs but is also complete with DVD players and TV.
Sleep in Heaven, Copenhagen
Sleep in Heaven, Copenhagen
Finally, this is a contemporary youth hostel suited to provide optimal comfort and entertainment for the guests. In addition to their decent security system, it features an onsite bar, and a common area with lots of entertainment options such as games, music, and some good company. Also, it features a compact beer garden where you can hang out and interact with other individuals.
This hostel comprises double, three, as well as four-bed private rooms with the dorms accommodating between four to twelve individuals. Better yet, it offers co-ed and female-only rooms to pick from.
Top 9 Hostels in Scandinavia for Backpackers and Students – Conclusion
Ultimately, while hostels are a cheaper option to hotels, they are usually both modern and conveniently located. Though the atmosphere and quality of hostels tend to vary from one place to the other, they undeniably offer the best accommodation option for backpackers, students, or any other budget travellers visiting Scandinavia.
Sandra Larson
Top 9 Hostels in Scandinavia for Backpackers and Students is written for Daily Scandinavian by Sandra Larson. Sandra is a renowned freelance writer and journalist with her personal blog, Elizabeth an Authors. She emphasizes the importance of good content and tries to improve people’s perception of the profession of a writer by explaining its complexity.
The former Norwegian World Cup alpine ski racer Aksel Lund Svindal (born 1982)was already a legend when he said goodbye to ski racing last year. We’re looking back at his stellar career by making this portrait of the retired Norwegian ski racer.
Aksel Lund Svindal crossed the finish line for the last time in the 2019 World Championship downhill in Åre, Sweden. A sea of Norwegian flags waved to say goodbye to their beloved superstar. That day, Svindal finished with a silver medal, slim 0.02 seconds behind his teammate and close friend, Kjetil Jansrud.
Aksel Lund Svindal crossed the finish line for the last time in the 2019 World Championship downhill in Åre, Sweden, Photo: Fri Flyt
World Cup and Winter Olympic champion
Svindal is a two-time overall World Cup champion (2007 and 2009), an Olympic gold medalist in super-G at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver and in downhill at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang. He is also a five-time World Champion in downhill, giant slalom, and super combined. With his victory in 2013, Svindal became the first male alpine racer to win titles in four consecutive world championships.
After several injuries and as many successful comebacks, the ‘Norwegian Viking’ admitted that he had pushed the limit further than his knees were able to tolerate. Nevertheless, he leaves a glittering legacy as one of the most successful alpine skiers in history.
His final race
His final race in Åre, Sweden was in many ways a near-perfect embodiment of his career and after he had crossed the finish line, Svindal looked up and thought to himself, “Let’s just enjoy this, this is the last moment.”
Many consider him the best Norwegian skier ever. Although Kjetil Andre Aamodt has been more successful at the Olympics, Svindal is by far the most successful on the World Cup arena. His magnificent achievements could only have been executed by a man with raging and unyielding intensity, commitment and passion for racing.
After several injuries and as many successful comebacks, the ‘Norwegian Viking’ admitted that he had pushed the limits. Photo: Screenshot
Several injuries
During the first training run for the Birds of Prey Downhill race in Beaver Creek, Colorado in 2007, Svindal crashed badly after landing a jump. With broken bones in his face and six-inch (15cm) laceration to his groin and abdominal area he was taken to the hospital and missed the remainder of the 2008 season. He returned to World Cup racing in October 2008.
Others would probably go out of their minds with boredom during the long, dark hours of rehabilitation, but Svindal turned his agile mind to improving himself. Svindal dated alpine racer Julia Mancuso of the U.S. for three years, until the couple split up in September 2013.
After an Achilles tendon injury in 2014, Svindal did not compete in World Cup events during the 2015 season.
A horrific crash in the 2016 edition of the Hahnenkamm downhill left him sidelined with a shredded meniscus and ACL. The recovery from the injury was slow and even required a second surgery midway through the following season, ending his hopes of competing at the 2017 World Championships in St. Moritz, Switzerland.
Many consider Aksel Lund Svindal the best Norwegian skier ever. Photo: Store norske leksikon
Portrait Of A Retired Norwegian Ski Racer
In spite of his injuries, Aksel is a real gentleman, a genuinely kind human being, and someone who always instinctively understood the responsibilities that came with being a serial alpine champion, the oldest in Olympic history. Svindal has endeared himself to teammates, rivals and fans alike by the simple fact that he is a genuinely nice guy. He’s won World Cup races in 12 different seasons. Only Sweden’s Ingemar Stenmark has done better (13). In his spare time, he devotes himself to freeskiing and has already appeared in several freeskiing film documentaries.
An era is over
In an Instagram post, Svindal wrote, “Hi Champ. An era is over, and the time has come. Thank you for everything you have given me, us, and the team. A champion on and off the slopes, and rest assured we will manage the Attacking Vikings to the best of our abilities. A giant has left, but the legacy lives on.”
Portrait Of A Retired Norwegian Ski Racer, written by Tor Kjolberg
