Stavanger, Norway

This past weekend I met Ram in Stavanger, Norway where he has been working for the past week.  I was greeted by a city that gives new meaning to "right of way."  The cars will literally stop in the middle of the road so you can cross (I tested this theory several times). We stayed in the city centre at the Radisson Blu Atlantic.  The hotel was perfectly located within walking distance of all these unique boutiques and restaurants around the North Sea harbour.  Even after spending several hours walking around, I still hadn't seen it all!  Along the cobblestone roads, every street has its own character and colour, I fell in love.  Notable restaurants and cafes included Bacchus, Chilli House, and Hall Toll.  The sushi there was amazeballs! But I could not get over how expensive the city is! One entree and one glass of wine would cost $60!!! It was pretty ridiculous. I wonder how much minimum wage is there....

Aside from giving the local economy a boost, I went to the Petroleum Museum and learned some interesting facts about the oil industry.  Then on Saturday, under the threat of rain and husband in tow, we took a 3 hour cruise to see the fjords. A fjord is a long, narrow inlet with steep sides or cliffs, carved by glacial activity.  The lack of sunshine left us wondering how different the scene might have looked.  But even with the gray clouds, it was beautiful. We cruised by a famous attraction, Pulpit Rock.  We were told that the 3 hour hike to the top of the rock can be difficult and with the rainy weather upon us, we declined to make the trek. The sea view of the rock magnified its height and I have to admit I felt a pang of regret not doing the hike. The views from the top of the rock are supposed to be amazing. We also cruised by a natural waterfall and tasted the fresh, untouched water.  Just as I thought the tour was over,  we came upon a very rocky area where, out of nowhere, 3 goats came running towards the ship! Apparently the cruise line often makes a stop there to feed the goats (and it looked like they hadn't missed many meals).  I got the perfect picture of them lined up and waiting for food.  I also saw groups of jelly fish along the harbour.  I've never seen one up close and it was alarming to see so many of them so close to the shore.  All in all, it was a wonderful sightseeing adventure and I'm so glad we did it.

So now I can cross Norway off my list.  It's a country I probably would've never visited but glad I did.  Next stop, Lake Como and Venice.  Can't wait!!!!!!!