Scandi FA L L 2 019 OC TO B E R 2 019
WH AT TO D O T HI S FA L L I N WH AT S ROKN I N O C TO BER DEN M’ A S WE D E N SN TOC K H OL M O RWAY CO PEA NN HAG I C EL D EN RFI EYNL K JAVIK AND HE L S IN K I OSLO EV E RY DA N ISH PA S T RY TO T RY IN C O P EN HAGEN EV ERY DA N IS H PA S T RY TO T RY IN C O P ENHAGEN
TRANSPOR TATION GUIDE
6 T H IN G S TO D O I N 6 T HDIN S ETO DO IN LUN , SGW D EN LUN D , S W E D EN
Scandi Scandinavia Standard’s streamlined travel guide to bridge Scandinavia and the world.
TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRO 5
DENMARK 11
SWEDEN 37
NORWAY 59
Scandinavian Design The Scandi Team Our Inspiration
What You Need To Know Transportation Guide This Fall in Copenhagen Every Pastry to Try in Denmark The Black Diamond Best Coffee in Copenhagen
ICELAND 87
What You Need to Know Transportation Guide This Fall in Reykjavik Architecture of Iceland Secret Hot Springs in Iceland
FINLAND 103
What You Need to Know Transportation Guide This Fall in Helsinki Five Fun Day Trips in Helsinki Favorite Food Delivery in Helsinki
What You Need to Know Transportation Guide This Fall in Stockholm Things to Do in Lund Scandi Stays: Wanas Brunch in Malmo Halloween in Stockholm
What You Need to Know Transportation Guide This Fall in Oslo Nine Amazing Islands in Norway Northern Lights in Norway The Perfect Statement Earrings Norway’s Best National Parks
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scandinavian design the heir of international style and the reason we’re here
This magazine was created under the banner of Scandinavian design. Scandinavian design values simplicity and readability to place the content at the forefront of the visual experience. It would be impossible, however, to recognize Scandinavian design without giving credit to it’s forefather, Swiss International Style. Often referred to as the International Typographic Style or the International Style, the style of design that originated in Switzerland in the 1940s and 50s was the basis of much of the development of graphic design during the mid 20th century. Led by designers Josef Mßller-Brockmann at the Zurich School of Arts and Krafts and Armin Hofmann at the Basel School of Design, the style favored simplicity, legibility and objectivity.
Of the many contributions to develop from the two schools were the use of sans-serif typography, grids and asymmetrical layouts. Also stressed was the combination of typography and photography as a means of visual communication. The primary influential works were developed as posters, which were seen to be the most effective means of communication. Keep reading to learn more about International Style and the visionary designers who made this publication a possibility.
THE SCANDI TEAM
OUR STORY
FREYA AUGUST MCOMISH
REBECCA THANDI NORMAN
Scandinavia Standard was founded in 2013 in Copenhagen by Freya McOmish and Rebecca Thandi Norman. Both being immigrants to Denmark, we wanted to make the website they needed when they first moved.
Co-founder and Creative Director
Co-founder and Editor in Chief
Freya, Australian-born, half-Danish freelance filmmaker, photographer, graphic designer and all-round fire cracker is the co-founder of Scandinavia Standard, the site for scandi-lovers, by scandi-lovers and Scandi, the publication you have in your hands right now!
Rebecca is a writer and editor with a background in health, research, travel and languages. She is particularly interested in gender equality, humanitarian issues, public transport, literature and design.
From early days working together at the Black Diamond library (beautiful AND free!), to our first, second, and third office spaces, we have independently grown into the media company we are today. We launched Scandi, our premium travel magazine, in 2019 in order to share the beauty of Scandinavia with as many people as possible. We aim to continue producing beautiful, easy-to-use content and products that allow our community – locals, travellers, and Scandiphiles around the world – to connect with what is happening in Scandinavia.
She loves her adopted home, Copenhagen, for its simple beauty. Freya oversees all things that make Scandi come to life visually — branding, art direction, web development, video, photography, and generally appeasing the aesthetically sensitive. She spends her spare time out and about exploring Copenhagen and eating cheese.
She grew up in Boston, MA, USA and have lived/worked in London, UK and Cape Town, South Africa. She is now based in Copenhagen with her Danish husband and son. She speaks Danish and French as well as English. Her passions include learning about new places, people and work environments. Rebecca oversees all of the content and editing for Scandi. So, if you’re reading an article, it’s probably hers. Her goal is to make Scandinavia as accessible and appealing as possible, because she believes it’s the best place in the world.
OUR INSPIRATION
EMIL RUDER
HERBERT MATTER
WIM CROUWEL
Emil Ruder was a typographer and graphic designer who, born in Switzerland in 1914, helped Armin Hofmann form the Basel School of Design and establish the style of design known as Swiss Design. He taught that, above all, typography’s purpose was to communicate ideas through writing. He placed a heavy importance on sans-serif typefaces and his work is both clear and concise, especially his typography.
Herbert Matter worked with a number of famous designers and artists during his career including Fernand Léger, Le Courbusier, Charles and Ray Eames, Derberny & Peignot, A.M. Cassandre and Alexey Brodovitch. Matter was a master of using photomontage, color and typography in an expressive manner, transcending the boundaries between art and design.
Crowel is a graphic designer and typographer born in the Netherlands. In 1963 he founded the studio Total Design, now called Total Identity. His most well known work has been for the Stedelijk Museum. His typography is extremely well plannedand based on very strict systems of grids.
Like most designers classified as part of the Swiss Design movement he favored asymmetrical compositions, placing a high importance on the counters of characters and the negative space of compositions. A friend and associate of Hofmann, Frutiger and Müller Brockmann, Ruder played a key role in the development of graphic design in the 1940s and 50s. His style has been emulated by many designers, and his use of grids in design has influenced the development of web design on many levels.
His design work often favored a heavy use of photography. His most recognizable works are the posters he created for the Swiss Tourist Office, but his photography work for Harper’s Bazaar, under the direction of Brodovitch, is equally impressive.
He has also designed expositions, album covers and identity systems. He has published two typefaces Fodor and Gridnik, digitized versions of both are available from The Foundry.
A master in his profession, he began teaching photography and design at Yale in 1952. He continued to teach and work, notable work from his later career includes the identity design for the New Haven Railroad, until he died in 1984.
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ARMIN HOFMANN
JOSEPH MÜLLER-BROCKMANN
OTL AICHER
By the age of 27 Armin Hofmann had already completed an apprenticeship in lithography and had begun teaching typography at the Basel School of Design. His colleagues and students were integral in adding to work and theories that surrounded the Swiss International Style, which stressed a belief in an absolute and universal style of graphic design. The style of design they created had a goal of communication above all else, practiced new techniques of photo-typesetting, photo-montage and experimental composition and heavily favored sans-serif typography. He taught for several years at the Basel School of Design and he was not there long before he replaced Emil Ruder as the head of the school.
As with most graphic designers that can be classified as part of the Swiss International Style, Joseph MüllerBrockmann was influenced by the ideas of several different design and art movements, including Constructivism, De Stijl, Suprematism and the Bauhaus. He is perhaps the most well-known Swiss designer and his name is probably the most easily recognized when talking about the period. He was born and raised in Switzerland and by the age of 43 he became a teacher at the Zurich school of arts and crafts.
Aicher spent time fighting in the second world war for the German army, against his own beliefs. The experience affected him greatly and his first contributions as a designer were in an effort to revitalize the public after the devastation of the war.
The Swiss International Style, and Hofmann, thought that one of the most efficient forms of communications was the poster and Hofmann spent much of his career designing posters, in particularly for the Basel Stadt Theater. Just as Emil Ruder and Joseph MüllerBrockmann did, Hofmann wrote a book outlining his philosophies and practices. His Graphic Design Manual was, and still is, a reference book for all graphic designers.
Perhaps his most decisive work was done for the Zurich Town Hall as poster advertisements for its theater productions. He published several books, including The Graphic Artist and His Problems and Grid Systems in Graphic Design. These books provide an in depth analysis of his work practices and philosophies, and provide an excellent foundation for young graphic designers wishing to learn more about the profession. He spent most of his life working and teaching, even into the early 1990s when he toured the US and Canada speaking about his work. He died in Zurich in 1996.
By 1947 Aicher had opened the doors at his own studio, Büro Aicher, and had begun accepting work from a variety of clients. Together with designer Max Bill he established the Hochschule für Gestaltung in Ulm, Germany and spent many years there as a professor. Perhaps the most prominent and influential work that he created was the identity system developed for the 1972 Olympics in Munich. The result of several years of work, the graphics were developed on a strict grid system, solely used the typeface Univers and were created from a bright palette developed from the colors of the Bavarian countryside. He was a very proficient typographer and created the Rotis family of typefaces, which include sans-serif, semi-sans, serif and semi-serif iterations. The typefaces were named after the property where he lived and worked from 1972 until his death in 1991.
WALTER HERDEG
LADISLAV SUTNAR
ADRIAN FRUTIGER
Walter Herdeg was very much a graphic designer. He studied at the Kunstgewerbeschule in Zürich, created many different corporate identities (just as the practice was beginning to become a standard), and even formed his own design company with Walter Amstutz. What he is best known for, however, is the creation and publication of Graphis. An international journal of visual communication, Graphis was first published by Herdeg towards the end of the Second World War.
Sutnar, a Czech designer born in 1897, was one of the first designers to actively practice the field of information design. His work was rooted in rationality and the process of displaying massive amounts of information in a clear and organized manner for easy consumption by the general viewer. He placed a heavy emphasis on typography and primarily used a limited color palette. While he often used punctuation symbols to help organize information one of his signature creations was the idea to place parentheses around the area codes in telephone books.
Adrian Frutiger has created some of the most used typefaces of the 20th and 21st centuries. Although interested in many fields including woodcut and paper silhouettes, Frutiger has been passionate about typography for his entire life. Spending most of his career working for Deberny & Peignot updating typefaces and preparing them for photo-typesetting, as well as designing typefaces of his own accord, he has created almost 30 typefaces.
The magazine showcases the work and interviews from designers and illustrators from all over the world in an effort to share their work with other audiences. In the beginning it served as one of what were, at the time, only a few vessels which exposed the western world to the design work being done in Europe. Herdeg served as the editor of the magazine for 246 issues (the magazine is still in publication) as well as the Graphis Design Annuals which showed the best and brightest work from the year prior to their publication. Graphis was a seminal force in the shaping of design culture and it continues to educate, expand and foster the world of graphic design today.
For nearly 20 years he served as the art director for Sweet’s catalog services where he created information graphics and catalog layouts for a wide range of manufactured items. Before working for Sweet’s he taught at the State School of Graphic Arts in Prague. He was heavily influenced by the ideas of Modernism and his work was so well structured that he had no problems communicating information clearly to an American audience, even though English was not his primary language.
Some of his most famous typefaces include Univers, Frutiger (created for the Charles de Gaulle airport), Egyptienne, Serifa and Avenir. Frutiger is one of only a few typographers whose career spans across hot metal, photographic and digital typesetting. He has also been instrumental in refining his own typefaces to include more weights and true italics, some examples are Frutiger Next and Avenir Next.
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DENM A SMILE ON OUR BLUE ROCK
MARK
Denmark
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW All the essential information for your trip to Denmark
PASSPORT VALIDITY Recommend at least six months beyond your period of stay BLANK PASSPORT PAGES One page per stamp TOURIST VISA REQUIRED Not required for stays under 90 days VACCINATIONS None CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT 10,000 Euros (or equivalent)
L A N G UAG E
W E AT H E R
In Denmark, the language spoken is Danish. However, you don’t need to speak Danish to get by in Denmark. Danes speak fantastic English, with barely a hint of an accent.
45-54°F in October with an average of a 31% chance of precipitation.
CURRENCY In Denmark, cards are king. However, you need to have a PIN number for your credit card. If you don’t have the PIN, you can get declined. Likewise, cash is not common, so the vendor may not be able to provide change for you. For a bit of cash, ATMs are widely available. It is a good idea to pack your debit card when travelling to Denmark. In Denmark, including Copenhagen, currency is the Krone. You get about 6.57 Krones per U.S. Dollar. Krones come in coins (20, 10, 5, 2, 1, .50) and bills (50, 100, 200, 500, 1000.) They do not use the Euro in Denmark! It’s important to remember the coins have value here, unlike in the States. 20 Krone coin is worth around $3, so keep track of them.
ELECTRICAL OUTLETS Plugs in Denmark are the same as the rest of Europe. You will need an adapter for charging any electronics. Your laptop or phone will have a converter built in, so you just need the adapter part.
TRANSPORTATION Public transportation in Denmark is very efficient and runs on time. It’s a very quiet experience, so be sure to talk softly. Buses and trains can take you throughout the country, albeit somewhat expensive like everything in Denmark. Bicycles are also very popular in Denmark, and a good way to get around on the bike paths.
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TRANSPORTATION GUIDE How to use public transportation in Copenhagen
The thing about Copenhagen is they have great public transport. As a person who has lived all over the world, I cannot stress this enough. Copenhagen has GREAT public transport. It is reliable, safe, and pervasive. Of course, like things in Copenhagen, it is not cheap. There are elements of the system that can be a little confusing, even for locals, but we’re here to help simplify it all for you!
METRO
TRAIN
The metro is in service 24 hours aday, 7 days a week. Trains arrive every 2-4 minutes during rush hour, and 3-6 minutes outside rush hour and during the weekends. Double check with Journey Planner for times between midnight and 6 a.m. On the metro map, the numbers next to the station names show how many minute it takes on the train from Nørreport.
The S-trains (s-tog) are inter-city and run between 05:00 in the morning and 00:30 at night. Line F runs every 4-5 minutes, line A, B, C and E run every 10 minutes, and line H and Bx run every 20 minutes. On Friday and Saturday the trains run once an hour between 01:00 and 05:00, while line F runs every half hour during these hours.
The original metro was 22 stops and only two lines. But since the end of September 2019, there are now an additional 17 stops thanks to Cityringen (also called M3), a circle line that that connects to the older lines at Frederiksberg and Kongens Nytorv. Cityringen includes Nørrebro, Østerbro, and Copenhagen Central Station (København H), making getting into the city easier than ever! The next line to open, M4 stretches diagonally from Fiskerikaj to Ny Ellebjerg, including the modern neighborhood development of Nordhavn. It will be partially open in 2020. Although some parts of the city are still excluded from the metro (Nordvest, for example), there are more proposed extensions and this is a major step to having the city more connected via metro!
When you change trains in Copenhagen, you always need to look at the screen for information, as you will often leave Copenhagen Central Station from a different platform every day even if you’re taking the same line.There are also the regional trains that take you to parts of Denmark outside Copenhagen. These go beyond the zones of the s-tog network but operate on the same zone system when closer to the centre.
BUS There are seven A-buses in central Copenhagen, which are the primary bus services, arriving every 3-7 minutes during peak times (07:00-09:00 in the morning and 15:30-17:30 in the afternoon) and otherwise every 10 minutes before and after rush hour. They also operate at night with reduced frequency.
Denmark
The are eight S-buses that drive every 5-10 minutes during rush hour and every 20 minutes outside of rush hour. These are suburban buses that have fewer stops than the A-buses. They operate between 06:00 in the morning and 01:00 at night. Other regular route buses that operate throughout Copenhagen are indicated by the yellow lines.
FERRY All ferries (havnebusserne) in Copenhagen are in zone 2. You can sail from Nyhavn via the Black Diamond to the Fisketorvet in 2 zones. Havnebusserne have six stops: Det Kongelige Bibliotek (Den Sorte Diamant) – Knippelsbro – Nyhavn – Holmen Syd – Holmen Nord – Nordre Toldbod. The ferry operates weekdays from 7:00 – 20:00, and on weekend 10:00 – 20:00.
BIKE Google maps is a great way to find out the best bike path to take. Alternatively, you can use the method favored by our Creative Director Freya, Maps app for iPhone: press “start” after determining your route, then Suri will dictate the directions for you, so you can keep your eyes on the road and enjoy the scenery.
TRANSPORTATION TIPS Danish public transport operates without turnstiles. But be warned: ticket collectors roam the system regularly and are not lenient towards tourists. Kids under 12 travel for free if they’re with an adult. Kids under 16 can purchase child fares. Small dogs and other pets travel for free, large dogs (ones that don’t fit in handheld carriers) need a child fare. Just be sure to let the ticket counter know that you are purchasing for a dog. Baby prams are free on all forms of transport.
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THIS FALL IN COPENHAGEN
Denmark
SEPT 1-8 ZULU COMEDY FESTIVAL ZULU Comedy Festival brings more than 100 shows to Copenhagen and Aarhus. Venues include Huset KBH, Bremen, and Islandsbrygge Kulturhus. Go and have a laugh!
SEPT 1 CC FINISSAGE / ART WALK AND BUBBLES AT COPENHAGEN CONTEMPORARY Wave goodbye to the exhibitions “I Have Grown Taller from Standing with Trees” by Claudia Comte and “LENGUA LLORONA” by Donna Huanca and join for an Art Walk with free beverages. The art educators lead walks at 3 pm, 4 pm, and 5 pm. Access to the exhibitions costs the same as regular entrance, the Art Walks are free. From 3 – 6 pm.
SEPT 4 GULDALDERSALON MED SOLVANG & PASS AT STATENS MUSEUM FOR KUNST What can the boom of the Golden Age in art, spiritual life, education and democracy teach us today? Join the salon and jointly explore this inspiring time in Danish history through stories and conversations. The event is included in the regular entrance ticket and goes from 5:30 – 7:30 pm.
SEPT 5-7 TECHFESTIVAL This year’s Techfestival deals with the hot topics of biohacking, data, and human rights. In times in which half of the world is online and eight out of ten of the world’s biggest companies are tech companies, tech shapes our everyday lives and relationships. Thus, Techfestival brings together experts and thinkers from Denmark and abroad in order to explore how tech can contribute to a better
future. There will be over 200 events including a talk about data sovereignty by “ the Robin Hood of Data“, Barcelona’s Chief Technology and Digital Innovation Officer Francesca Bria, and an interactive session about how Augmented Reality can be used to educate about Sustainability. Find the full programme and tickets on the festival website.
SEPT 6-22 GOLDEN DAYS FESTIVAL: 1989 Golden Days celebrates the 30th year after the fall of the Berlin Wall with a historico-cultural festival dedicated to the year 1989. The fall of the Berlin Wall marked a turning point in world history and in more than 150 formats including talks, concerts, and exhibitions, Golden Days explores what we can learn from these times.
SEPT 7 GUIDED TOUR IN ENGLISH AT THE ROYAL OPERA HOUSE Get inspired by the clean lines of the opera’s beautiful lobby, Olafur Eliasson’s light sculptures, and the views of Copenhagen Harbour. Come onto the stage and behind the scenes in this guided tour in English. Tickets are 120 DKK and can be bought via the website of The Royal Danish Theatre. The tour starts at 12 noon.
SEPT 7 HURLING TOURNAMENT Ever heard of hurling? The sport has been a big deal in Ireland for years, and if you’re interested in getting a look at this fast-paced, highly-skilled sport (imagine ice hockey meets lacrosse, but with a rugby attitude), then come watch some of the games!
SEPT 13-22 MUSIKFILM FESTIVALEN AT CINEMATEKET The seventh edition of Musikfilm Festivalen is offering the broadest program in the festival’s history. Celebrate the 50th birthday of legendary Woodstock Festival by watching the documentary or watch the cult film Quadrophenia, there will be more than 30 films to chose from so get your groove on.
SEPT 14 KHALID – FREE SPIRIT AT THE ROYAL ARENA Khalid is coming to Copenhagen. Join in the Royal Arena and dive into his musical world, somewhere between pop, R&B, and electro. From 8 pm.
SEPT 15 COPENHAGEN HALF MARATHON Flat, fast, and scenic, the CPH Half course features some of the biggest highlights of Copenhagen. Put your running shoes on or just come and support the athletes. From 11:15 am – 4 pm.
SEPT 15 CARFREE SUNDAY AT NØRREBROGADE Cars are banned from Nørrebrogade on this Sunday and instead the street is filled with all kinds of activities for adults and kids alike. From 2 – 6 pm.
SEPT 20-21 KERN1 VINTAGE CHANEL JACKET POP-UP AT THE AUDO Well we can’t think of a more elegant pop-up than this one! Kern1 sells pre owned Chanel jackets from a range of eras and styles, and if you’ve ever wanted to own one of these beautiful pieces then now is the time! 17
SEPT 29 CITYRINGEN (M3) OPENING CEREMONY
OCT 3 DANSKERTESTEN – THE BIG DANEOFF AT STUDENTERHUSET
The time has come, Cityringen M3 finally opens its doors to the metro! 17 new stations will help to bring the different parts of Copenhagen and Frederiksberg tighter together. To celebrate, there will be live music and an opening ceremony on Rådhuspladsen from 1 – 4 pm and a program for families on Solbjerg Plads in Frederiksberg from 12.30 noon – 4 pm.
Compete in disciplines such as “Eating Danish candy“, “Weird idioms from hell“, and “Build an open sandwich“. You can join individually or as teams, just register via the link. From 8-10 pm.
OCT 3-6 FRISTILLET AT POP-UP COPENHAGEN
CopenHill offers skiing, the world’s tallest climbing wall (spring 2020), steep trail running, hiking and outdoor fitness in unique surroundings. Join the opening celebration from 5 pm. Find the full program on the website.
Susanne, Birgitte, and Grethe were colleagues for many years working for the same newspaper until the day they were laid off. In the aftermath, they focused on creating art and “Fritstillet“ is their first show together. Susanne Bondrop paints in an expressive naturalism, with the main source of inspiration being Danish landscapes. Birgitte Elkær expresses herself through non-figurative, naïve, and happy image collages with material structure, and Grethe Nielsen has most recently focused on the development of the gender political cartoon “Den nøgne sandhed – ifølge Iris & Angela” (The Naked Truth – According to Iris & Angela). Join the opening of the artistic fusion at Pop-Up Copenhagen from 4 – 7 pm. The exhibition will be on display until Sunday.
OCT 4-6 AMAGER BAKKE – OPENING OF COPENHILL
OCT 4-6 DESIGNER FORUM Want to save up to 80% off some of your favorite brands, including Han Kjøbenhavn, Samsøe Samsøe, SAND, and more. There’s a VIP sale on Friday evening, then Forum is open from 10 am – 5 pm on Saturday and 10 am – 4 pm on Sunday. VIP tickets are 195DKK and include early access, welcome drinks, and a goodiebag for the first 500 people to arrive. All tickets can be purchased online, and are slightly more expensive at the door.
OCT 3 SEASON OPENING OF THE CARIBBEAN HOUSEWIFE
OCT 5 PLANKS GRASSROOTS TOUR 2019 AT COPENHILL
Soup bar The Caribbean Housewife opens for the season: hurray! Get yourself the tastiest soup and other cosy dishes around, including her beloved lasagna. There are lots of vegetarian and vegan options. The opening event, from 4 – 7 pm, includes free soup for the first 25 guests, music by WILD DAVE, and even a few tastings. Go slurp it up!
The Planks Grassroots Tour is now in its third year and this time it’s headed to the brand new dry slope in Copenhagen. Expect an awesome park, skiers, bags of prizes, and good tunes in your ears. It’s the perfect way to get stoked for winter and everyone’s invited, so make sure you kick off the season with a bang! The event is open to anyone and all you need is a valid lift ticket for the slope to enter. From 12 noon – 5 pm.
OCT 7 QUIZ NIGHT AT STUDENTERHUSET Put together your dream team, participate in a quiz and win at Studenterhuset’s Original Quiz with current affairs questions and Danish hygge. It’s 20 DKK per person and there can be two to four people in each team. From 7-9 pm.
OCT 9 URBAN RIGGER – THE FUTURE IS FLOATING The challenges of urbanization make it more important than ever to build smart. According to the team behind Urban Rigger, finding a sustainable answer means exploring the undiscovered resources in our cities. Urban Rigger floating homes can be placed anywhere with water access. By harnessing energy from the surrounding water through specialized heat pumps and from the sun through solar panels, they achieve a very low CO2 emission. Join a guided tour and learn more from 4-5.30 pm. Free tickets are available via Eventbrite.
OCT 10 TALK: “THE CIRCULAR CITY“ AT SPACE10 Join SPACE10, IKEA’s global research and design lab, and EFFEKT Architects for a talk and exhibition presenting their latest project, The Urban Village. The talk will focus on their vision for how to design, build, and share our future living spaces in order to improve our quality of life. From cross-generational living to flatpack, modular homes; from sharing energy, finance, mobility and food to efficiency, community and affordability, SPACE10 and EFFEKT have developed a number of ideas for creating better and more circular solutions for our future cities. The talk is free, sign up will be possible via the Live Like Tomorrow website or Eventbrite.
Denmark
OCT 11 KULTURNATTEN 2019 For more than 26 years, Culture Night has been one of Copenhagen’s most well-attended cultural events. When the schools begin their autumn holiday the association Kulturnatten creates a festive evening that celebrates Copenhagen’s cultural life. More than 250 museums, theatres, libraries, churches, ministries and parks throughout the city welcome the public during the city’s biggest annual one-day event. Find the full program on Kulturnatten’s website.
OCT 19 ORESUND CUP 2010 (FINAL & QUALIFICATION #2) AT BETA BOULDERS The cross-Oresund rivalry between Sweden and Denmark is legendary. Watch climbers battling each other across two gyms when they compete not only for themselves but also for their country teams. Round #1 will take place in Malmö Klättercentret, round #2 and the final at Beta Boulders in Copenhagen. Both gyms throw an afterparty, so no matter where you end up – celebrate with the athletes. From 10 am – 10 pm. Find tickets via the website.
OCT 22 BLANCO WHITE AT IDEAL BAR London-based Josh Edwards started his musical project Blanco White in 2014. Having studied guitar in Spain and the Andalusian instrument charango in Bolivia, he blends Latin-American and Western influences. The resulting indiefolk is the perfect soundtrack for rainy autumn days. Doors open at 7 pm and tickets cost 135 DKK.
of the visual future. Through talks and workshops, the non-profit, openly critical and collaborative design festival POST challenges the place of graphic design, digital design and illustration practice in society. Addressing issues such as the ethics of design, the politics of image making and the unknowns of the creative future, POST offers a unique opportunity to explore, question and re-imagine the purpose of the graphic arts. Find the program and tickets on the website.
OCT 31 20 BRIDGE RUN THROUGH COPENHAGEN Join Run Buddy for a 7km run through Copenhagen. It’s actually possible to cross 20 bridges in Copenahgen in 7km! This run is open to expats, and begins outside The Standard. There will be a couple of stops, and the group runs at a moderate pace. Run Buddy Copenhagen is always free, and we always recommend Ole’s company!
NOV 1-3 MIX CPH Dating back to 1986, MIX CPH is Denmark’s oldest recurring and ever active film festival and one of the world’s oldest LGBTQ+ film festivals. Run by volunteers, it shows an array of movies that bend gender and break sexual boundaries, affect the gender debate and reflect a diverse world. Find all the screenings and tickets on the website. On Saturday, 2nd November, the festival closes with two documentaries that transport you to the spectacular world of Vogue and party at Refshalevej 185.
NOV 1 J-DAG/J-DAY OCT 23-26 POST DESIGN FESTIVAL 2019 In our increasingly image-based society, designers and illustrators are growing more responsible for shaping the rhetoric
available at 8:59 pm. The beer is around for ten weeks only, but it’s still the fourth most popular beer in Denmark! Go enjoy this dark beer, which can be purchased in stores or most bodegaas around the city, while you can.
NOV 2 FREE PARKOUR CONDITIONING CLASS Feeling sporty or just in need of a workout before going all in on the delicious Christmas food? Join this free Parkour Conditioning Class on Israels Plads. With body weight exercises, Marcus and Sander prepare you for the parkour. Get insights into this interesting sport or just join for the sake of physical fitness. From 9-10.30 am.
NOV 5 FREE DANISH AT CAFÉ CADEAU Every Tuesday and Wednesday, Café Cadeau offers a free Danish language event. Learn from the Danish volunteers and don’t forget to order some drinks or food to support this non-profit initiative. From 7-9 pm. Dive into Irish culture at the annual Copenhagen Irish Festival. There will be theatre performances, concerts, dance and jam session. Find the full program on the festival website.
NOV 9 LOPPEMARKED I NØRREBROHALLEN Are you looking for some additions to your home or wardrobe or maybe even the first Christmas presents? Go on treasure hunt at this indoor flea market in Nørrebrohallen from 10 am – 3 pm. Entry is free.
Hip hip hooray, julebryg is here! Today is the day when Tuborg releases their limited edition Christmas brew. The day is a party around the city, with people heading straight to their local bodega to get a bottle when it’s officially 19
NOV 9 KUNSTHÅNDVÆRKERMARKED I ABSALON Stock up on ceramics, jewelry, prints and so much more when Absalon turns into a creative heaven. From 10 am – 3 pm you can browse the stalls of a broad range of designers and artists. If you get hungry, there will be coffee and freshly baked buns. Entry is free.
NOV 15 COPEN OPEN POETRY SLAM Come and join this open poetry slam at Stardust. From 7:15 pm, tickets can be purchased at the door.
NOV 16-17 JULEMARKED PÅ FREDERIKSBERG It’s that time of the year again. Get your Christmas vibes going and take a stroll over the market in Haveselskabets have. There will be regional delicacies, arts, crafts and Christmas decoration for sale and Haveselskabets café is offering its famous kryddervin, along with coffee and cocoa. From 11 am – 5 pm.
NOV 17 VINTAGE SALON AT STORE KANNIKESTRÆDE 19 Browse vintage pieces in the beautiful 1920’s festsal of Store Kannikestræde 19 from 11 am – 5 pm. Tickets cost 40 DKK and can be bought with cash or mobile pay at the entry.
NOV 19-24 NORDIC ADVENTURE FILM FESTIVAL AT CINEMATEKET This festival was first held in 1996 and aims at presenting the most inspiring adventure and outdoors films to the local audience, at helping develop the production of adventure films as well as at motivating people to use film media when going outdoors.
The best films will be rewarded in ten categories ranging from “Best Film Of The Year” to the more niche “Best Mountain Culture Film.”
NOV 29 JULEFROKOST AT ABSALON Absalon is kicking off Julefrokost season. Eat, drink, and dance in the sign of Christmas every Friday and Saturday until 21st December from 5 pm. Tickets cost 250 DKK and are available via Billetto. Due to high demand, all dates are sold out but stay tuned for the chance of spots opening up. If not, keep an eye out for other options to indulge in this Danish tradition or simply organize your own Julefrokost – an introduction to the concept and recipes can be found here.
NOV 30 STUDIO ARHOJ CHRISTMAS MARKET Ready for some christmas shopping (for yourself or your loved ones)? Drop by the Arhoj studio on Islands Brygge, dig through all the odd, awkward, lucky mistakes, watch the production team in action, and enjoy a hot beverage from Elis Street Coffee. From 9 am – 5 pm.
CHASING PERFECTION
10 % O F F YO U R F I R S T ORDER WITH CODE SCANDI
ARKK COPENHAGEN
PASTRIES IN COPENHAGEN Every Danish pastry you need to try in Copenhagen
When you think of Danish pastry, what comes to mind? Maybe some cream cheese, cherry filling, and a flaky dough? “Tourists will come in and ask for the one with cheese, or a salty and savory pastry,” says Lars Konstantin Hansen, manager of Lagkagehuset’s iconic Christianshavns Torv bakery. “[But] we don’t have these in Denmark.” Our beloved cherry Danishes aren’t quite the same as what the Danes are eating at home. In Denmark, wienerbrød or ‘Vienna bread’ is the umbrella term for a range of flaky, sweet pastries. They’re named after the Austrian bakers who brought the technique of making laminated dough (think croissants) to Copenhagen. The Viennese pâtissiers traveled to Denmark in the mid-1800s after Danish bakers went on strike. (Or so the story goes.) Little did they know at the time, that this cross-cultural exchange would lead to international culinary acclaim.
In short, weinerbrød refers to a category of pastry rather than a single pastry, although occasionally individual pastries are referred to simply as weinerbrød. Today, wienerbrød of all kinds are a must-try when visiting Copenhagen. The bakeries are packed with sweet smelling (and tasting) choices. How do you know which ones to try? We’ve done the tasting for you in this definitive guide to Danish pastries. All these gorgeous delicacies are from Lagkagehuset’s Christianshavns Torv bakery. This location bakes everything daily on site (and yes, the smell is divine). So if you’re into fresh pastries, “come in very early [around 6:00am], that’s when they come right out of the oven.” Thanks for the tip, Lars! For more information and recipes for each of these delicious pastries, check out our website.
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Denmark
THE BLACK DIAMOND
Don’t leave Copenhagen without visiting this iconic site
One of Copenhagen’s architectural icons, this complex exemplifies the evolution of Scandinavian libraries. Public libraries in Scandinavia are well designed and intended to strengthen the social fabric, reflecting the region’s history and values. The Scandinavian nations started developing their first purpose-built libraries around 1900 and as the welfare state developed from the 1930s onward, they took on added importance as democratic institutions. After the WWII, Scandinavian libraries broadened their role, also offering cultural space and hosting community activities. More recently, libraries have taken on the added role as catalysts for urban revitalization. The Royal Library dates from 1906, an upgrade from a nearby 1673 building (now the National Archives). Designed by Professor Hans J. Holm, it features an eclectic mix of historical precedents. Reflecting its times, the Royal Library was built as a temple of knowledge with brick facade, towers, clerestory windows, ornate details, and chandeliers.
Much beloved, on the other hand, is the Black Diamond (Den Sorte Diamant), a major expansion which opened in 1999 and is named for its dark granite and glass facade. While the 1906 building was preserved, the 1968 addition was reclad to fit with the new facade. Functionally, the Black Diamond integrates with Holm’s building, linking to it with glass bridges above a city street. Designed by Schmidt Hammer Lassen architects, the sevenstorey building extends the library to the waterfront and its soaring atrium provides stunning harbor views. It is beautiful and welcoming (andw Scandinavia Standard’s first home).
BLACK DIAMOND Søren Kierkegaards Plads 1 1221 København K THE DANISH JEWISH MUSEUM Proviantpassagen 6 1218 København K ROYAL LIBRARY (1906 BUILDING) Christians Brygge 8 1219 Københacn K
Besides new library space, The Black Diamond also includes an auditorium, photography museum, and eateries. Adding to this cultural milieu is the Danish Jewish Museum designed by Daniel Liebeskind, located in the Galley House.
A 1968 extension which tacked on a Functionalist wing on one side, was generally unloved.
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BEST COFFEE IN COPENHAGEN THE COFFEE COLLECTIVE A Copenhagen favorite, The Coffee Collective roasts their own beans to perfection. They’re serious about coffee and about trade ethics – they buy direct from farms around the world and pay a fair price for these smaller batches. At their Godthåbsvej location, you can have an excellent breakfast, tour the roastery and do a “cupping,” which is a fancy way of saying “coffee tasting.”
RISTERIET Risteriet roasts their own beans. They’re known around town for their uncompromising taste and laid back vibes. The Studiestræde location is more of a takeaway joint, while the Halmtorvet location invites you to kick back and enjoy your cup.
COPENHAGEN COFFEE LAB When you’re on Chef Rene Redzepi’s list of favorite places in Copenhagen, you know you’re doing something right (especially when he calls you “full of nerds”). “Lab” is a fairly good descriptor for this place – there’s definitely a vibe of experimentation. Located in the cellar level of cobbled side street, Copenhagen Coffee Lab is a great choice for your morning or afternoon coffee fix when you also want the time to sit and truly enjoy.
Denmark
CAFE BEVAR’S Café Bevar’s is a relaxing retreat in which to hide away during a busy afternoon in Copenhagen. With a wide selection of drinks, good music, retro-chic furniture and comfortable armchairs, Bevar’s can charm anyone into spending a few hours in its interior. During the daytime, you will often find people studying or working on laptops as Bevar’s invites people to work outside the office. There is a meeting room in the back of the cafe to cater to larger work parties.
CAFE DET VIDE HUS So small that if you were passing on the street you might miss it. Det Vide Hus is a Copenhagen favorite for their in-the-know location, their great food including acai bowls, breakfast dishes and pastries and delicious coffee (they even have a collaboration roast with The Coffee Collective). It gets crowded on weekends, so get there early.
FORLOREN ESPRESSO A tiny little gem in the centre of the city, Forloren is the kind of place you usually find by accident. A sign at the counter warns that they make their coffee right, not fast, so if you’re in a hurry definitely ask about wait times. When you’re staying in, you’re treated to a little explanation of the coffee you’re drinking. FYI: the cosy corner in the back of the shop is a no-laptop, no-phone zone. It is for enjoying coffee only (oh the horror, the horror of it all)!
PROLOG COFFEE BAR What looks like a small, unassuming but hip coffee bar in the meatpacking district is actually a special gem. The location used to be a bookshop, and owners Jonas and Sebastian have continued to display and sell a few magazines and other printed works. But it’s the coffee (duh, this is an article about coffee) that’ll keep you coming back. Prolog is a relatively small operation but they roast their own beans, and the roasts are excellent.
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S WE LIGHT OF THE ARCTIC
DEN
Sweden
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW All the essential information for your trip to Sweden
PASSPORT VALIDITY At least six months beyond the period of stay. BLANK PASSPORT PAGES Space for entry and exit stamps TOURIST VISA REQUIRED Not required for stays under 90 days VACCINATIONS None CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT 10,000 Euros (or equivalent)
L A N G UAG E The official language of Sweden is Swedish, but they also speak English well. This is one reason I recommend Sweden for first time international travelers who want to visit a non-Englishspeaking country but be able to get by with only English.
CURRENCY In Sweden, they tend to prefer credit cards as payment. To avoid any issues, make sure you have a PIN for your credit card or debit card, and try to bring cards that have the chip in them. When dealing with cash in Sweden, the currency is the Krona, SEK or Kr. In 2018, the Swedish exchange rate is about 9 Kr per US Dollar. Swedish currency comes in bills and coins. There are 1000Kr bills, but beware of those, and ask for two 500Kr instead as it will be hard to spend. The other bills are 500Kr, 100Kr, 50Kr and 20Kr. Coins come in 10Kr, 5k, 1Kr and .50 Kr. ATM’s are found throughout the cities, and this is the best exchange rate for withdrawing Swedish currency. There are also exchange houses around, but you won’t get as good of a rate as you would from an ATM.
Be sure to call your banks ahead of time to let them know you’ll be using your cards in Sweden!
W E AT H E R 51-63°F in October with an average of sa 28% chance of precipitation.
ELECTRICAL OUTLETS Plugs in Sweden are the same as the rest of Europe. You will need an adapter for charging any electronics. Your laptop or phone will have a converter built in, so you just need the adapter part.
TRANSPORTATION Sweden has a very good public transportation system. Beware that the trains often run late, and it can be expensive. Sometimes getting public transportation tickets in Sweden can be difficult. It can be frustrating getting hold of a the card you need to load up for access to trains and buses.
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TRANSPORTATION GUIDE How to use public transportation in Stockholm
SUBWAY Stockholm is a visitor’s dream when it comes to public transportation. The city’s subway network is intuitive and efficient and runs through the night on weekends. Busses, trams, commuter trains and ferries also connect the capital’s 14 islands—and all their top attractions. Almost all these options are operated by the same company, Storstockholms Lokaltrafik (SL), so you can easily switch between different transport modes. Paper or mobile tickets cost 44 SEK for a 75-minute journey. But it’s usually better value to buy a plastic SL card for 20 SEK and top up with credit, or buy a 24 hour, 72 hour or weekly pass if you’re planning frequent trips. Whether you’re finding your way to your hotel or just want to get lost in the city—and then find a great bar or restaurant along the way—we’ve got you covered.
Stockholm’s extensive underground network, known as the tunnelbana, is made up of three colour-coded lines (green, red and blue), which split into different branches on the outskirts of the capital. Subway trains typically run between 5am and 1am during the week and there are through-the-night services on Fridays and Saturdays—very handy in a city where taxis are expensive. Stations in the city centre are typically well-marked at ground level with large ‘T’ signs. There’s wheelchair and stroller access at every station, although not necessarily at each exit. Tickets should be bought in advance from subway stations or Pressbyrån and 7-11 convenience stores.
BUS The bus network in Stockholm is trickier to navigate than the subway, and probably isn’t worth it if you’re only visiting for a short period of time or are planning to do most of your travelling by day. However, busses are a great option if you need to travel after 1am during the week, when the subway is closed. Services are well-heated and are typically calm and safe. The key inner-city night route is Line 4 (which turns into
Nightbus 94) between Radiohuset and Gullmarsplan. SL cards are accepted on all busses. If you don’t have a ticket, you can pay using the SL app; it costs 44 SEK for a 75-minute journey (compared to 31 SEK with an SL card).
TRAIN You can travel surprisingly far outside the city borders on a single SL ticket, making Stockholm’s aboveground train network a top choice for both commuters and weekend day-trippers. Two popular tourist spots are the ports of Nynästamn and Saltsjöbaden. Sigtuna, the oldest town in Sweden, can also be reached via an SL train to Märsta, followed by a short bus ride. However, if you’re travelling to Uppsala from Stockholm you’ll need to buy a separate UL ticket or, if you’ve already bought an all-inclusive SL ticket for 24 hours or more, you can buy an SL ticket extension. It’s easiest to arrange the latter from an SL counter; ticket machines are available but can be confusing for firsttime visitors.
Sweden
TRAM Trams serve Djurgården island and many of Stockholm’s most popular museums are based. You can pick up the Line 7 service from two adjacent stops in the city centre—Hamngatan or Nybrokajan. Both stops are within walking distance from central station and Östermalmstorg and Kungsträdgården subway stops. Tram line 22 serves various city suburbs. Valid SL cards or mobile tickets must be bought in advance from subway stations or convenience stores and shown on board.
FERRY Taking the ferry rarely saves time in Stockholm, but it offers a fun and scenic way to get around, especially during good weather. The Djurgården ferry connects Slussen (follow signs from the Södermalmstorg subway exit) to Djurgården island, often stopping off at Skeppsholmen island en route (check with staff before you board).
The Sjövägen 80 boat line connects central Nybroplan (close to Kungsträdgården subway stop) and Frihamnen port, also stopping off at Djurgården island along the way. SL tickets are valid for both services but must be bought in advance. There are also several private companies running boats from the city centre to the Stockholm archipelago. Waxholmsbolaget and Stromma are the largest.
BIKE When the weather is nice, try to take advantage of the many bike paths and lanes that snake through the city. Rental companies are scattered throughout, with most bikes costing 250 kroner (about $30) a day. One of the more popular neighborhoods to explore via bike is Djurgården, which is conveniently home to some of the city’s most popular activities. Check the Visit Stockholm website to learn more.
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THIS FALL IN STOCKHOLM
Sweden
SEPT 1 LÅDAN OPEN HOUSE
SEPT 4 ITALIAN WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL
Ralph and Ruth Erskine’s first home, Lådan, will be open for viewing. Ralph Erskine was a British architect and planner, who created this small house (20 square meters) that is full of smart solutions. As tiny houses become more popular, seeing this house may give you inspiration!
In celebration of a great summer, Eataly is having a wine tasting event with 50 different wines to choose from, and a buffet of Italian food made by Eataly’s chefs. You can choose between two wine tasting packages, one with 5 wines for 285 SEK, the second with 12 wines for 485 SEK.
WALL STREET NACKA Over the course of two weeks, this international mural festival will turn a public space into an outdoor gallery. Artists from all over the world have been invited to participate, and everyone is welcome to view and celebrate the street art that will be created. There will be an inauguration event on Sunday 1st, and a closing event on Sunday 15th; more information about these events will be released soon on the Wall Street Nacka website.
SEPT 2 CINDERELLA AT THE OPERA HOUSE The story of Cinderella is a classic tale, and a beloved opera. This performance will be in Italian with Swedish text. Even if the languages are foreign to you, come and be swept away by the performance of this familiar story. Tickets start at 110 SEK. If you miss the first night, don’t worry, you can also catch it on the 4th, 10th, 13th, 21st, and 25th.
SEPT 4 THE MEDIEVAL STOCKHOLM TOUR Walk the cobblestones of Gamla Stan, and learn of life in medieval Stockholm. You’ll hear of everyday life, festivities, and even the merciless punishments of the times. The tour ends with a trip to Blackfriars’ cellar. Tickets for the tour, arranged with the Medieval Museum, are 120 SEK.
SEPT 6-7 STHLM STREET FOOD AND SWEDISH CHAMPIONSHIP IN KUNGSTRÄDGÅRDEN Taste street food from all over the world, while enjoying performances, competitions and the work of graffiti artists. In addition to food truck competitions, this year there will be a Sweet Food competition (yum!). The festival is open to everyone.
SEPT 7-8 VIKING MARKET AT GUNNES GÅRD At the 15th annual Viking market, there will be many fun things to do, for both children and adults. There will be a market, craft courses, storytelling, archery, battle shows and lectures. Entrance to the market is free, but remember to bring cash, as not all of the market vendors will have Swish.
SEPT 8 2 KM FLEA MARKET IN ASPUDDEN This is one of the more popular flea markets in Stockholm. Residents of the area are able to sell their second hand clothing, books, toys, and more. On top of the fantastic browsing to be done, there will be performances. If you are interested in performing (maybe you’re part of a choir or a band!), get in touch with the organizers via the Facebook event page.
SEPT 9 A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM AT KUNGLIGA DJURGARDEN William Shakespeare’s play A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be performed in English by TNT Theatre Britain. The play is a comedy, with cases of mistaken identity, love scenes, and some magical happenings. Tickets are 300 SEK for adults, 150 SEK for students. It is an open-air theater, so bring a sweater!
SEPT 11 KHALID AT HOVET Khalid is on tour with his second album, “Free Spirit.” This young American singersongwriter began his career fresh out of high school, and has now become one of the world’s most streamed artists. He’ll be supported by Mabel and Raye for this concert. Tickets range from 445 to 545 SEK.
SEPT 12-13 GATHER FESTIVAL The Gather Festival is a unique festival, as it combines music, art, performances, labs to learn skills, and talks. The speakers and artists are international. The whole event revolves around collaboration. The festival will be hosted in multiple locations, from small venues to larger clubs. All tickets grant access to the whole event; prices increase as the event approaches.
SEPT 20-21 NÄSS AT DANSENS HUS The dance company, Cie Massala, combines forms from Moroccan folk dance, hip-hop, contemporary dance, and circus for this performance. Ticket prices for Näss range from 97 to 345 SEK.
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SEPT 28-29 AUTUMN FAIR AT SKANSEN This event is an annual fixture at Skansen. The market includes textiles, toys, vegetables, jams, bread, candy and more. In addition to the market, you’ll hear traditional music, see dancing, and be able to participate in activities like tug of war. Admission for children is 60 SEK, and 195 SEK for adults.
SEPT 28 1000 METERS OF ARTS AND CRAFTS IN HUDDINGE This is Stockholm’s longest arts and crafts fair, stretching 1000 meters. Amateurs and professionals alike will be selling their work. Have a look at the crafts this year, and maybe you’ll join the exhibitors next year! In addition to shopping the hand-made crafts, there will be activities for the whole family. The full program will be released soon on their website. Entrance is free.
OCT 2 STOCKHOLM IMPROV COMEDY CLUB AT THE LIFFEY Every Wednesday night starting on the 2nd, you can celebrate getting over the week’s hump with a little comedy. Watch The Splash perform a fast-paced comedy show made up on the fly! Tickets for the shows can be bought in advance or at the door, for 80 SEK. Who wouldn’t appreciate a midweek laugh? Other dates this month are the 9th, 16th, 23rd, and 30th.
OCT 3-6 STOCKHOLM CRAFT WEEK During Craft Week, galleries, studios, and museums around Stockholm and Värmdö will host events, seminars, and exhibitions. Included in this field are everyday objects, sculpture, installations, and more. Are you interested in learning about glass sculpting? What about seeing acrobats perform? Many of the events are free of charge. Some have limited
number of seats so peruse the program to ensure you get to the events that excite you the most!
OCT 3-6 CHEW AT RINGEN CENTRUM Chew is a food festival that brings you a variety of opportunities including food and beer tastings, workshops, and games. The events have different price listings, so be sure to look at the website and book your favorite tastings online. Fingers crossed that we will see you at the Chef’s Table!
OCT 4-6 OPEN HOUSE STOCKHOLM Open House returns to Stockholm for the third year. Take a look at some of the city’s most interesting buildings through free guided tours. Some of these buildings are not available to the public throughout the year and are well worth seeing, whether you’re into architecture, history, or interior design (or you’re just kinda nosy).
OCT 6 VINOKILO AT DOWNTOWN CAMPER BY SCANDIC Shop vintage clothes at this pay-bythe-kilo event. There will be a variety of sizes and styles of clothes, as well as accessories. Get your ticket online for free, or pay a small entrance fee at the door. This sale is coming to us from Germany; we are so excited to freshen our wardrobes with some classic vintage pieces!
OCT 9-12 SÖDERTÄLJE INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL Come and try out dishes from 15 countries! France, Thailand, Greece, Italy and Mexico are some of the countries whose food will be presented at this year’s food festival (previously known as the International Street
Market). Tables will be set up in the square so that you can enjoy your meal.
OCT 10-13 THE BAKING AND CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL AT STOCKHOLMSMÄSSAN The tastiest festival around! Pastry chefs and chocolate lovers, Magnus Johansson and Tony Olsson, run this festival together for those who are like-minded and appreciate the sweet things in life. You can take a class about chocolate and health, or a course on creating the perfect mousse. Onsite tickets are 190 SEK for one day, and 260 SEK for two days. Purchase your tickets online beforehand for a discounted price.
OCT 11-20 STOCKHOLM JAZZ FESTIVAL This year’s jazz festival will have approximately 160 concerts around the city. Tickets are sold separately for each concert. Tove and Ingvar Jensen are the owners of the Stockholm Jazz Festival, and they develop the festival throughout the year to create a great experience for the attendees. This festival is one of Stockholm’s largest events, and it continues to grow each year.
OCT 12 ICE CREAM BRUNCH AT LJUNGGREN Ben & Jerry’s ice cream and the Swedish NGO Nema Problema are bringing people together over ice cream to celebrate everything that we share in common as members of humanity. In addition to ice cream, there will be music, and activities that challenge your perspectives of what you share in common with others.
OCT 18-20 HALLOWEEN AT GRÖNA LUND In celebration of Halloween, Gröna Lund will open during certain days this
Sweden
autumn. If you miss it this time around, you can also go from 25th October to 3rd November. All of the rides will be open; the park will be decorated for Halloween. Tickets are limited due to the construction of the new roller coaster, so reserve your ticket early!
OCT 23 MICHAEL BUBLÉ AT ERICSSON GLOBE Inspired by the music of artists such as Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett, Canadian singer-songwriter Michael Bublé gives us pop songs as well as jazz in the old-school style. Tickets for his show range from 650 SEK to 1450 SEK.
OCT 26-27 HARMONI-EXPO AT SOLNAHALLEN The Harmoni-Expo fair is bursting with possibilities. This year, the fair will have 300 exhibitors, over 100 workshops and presentations, hands-on treatments, and products available for purchase, such as jewelry, crystals, and selfdevelopment books. We can’t wait to have our auras photographed! Tickets for the show are 140 SEK for one day and 200 SEK for two days.
OCT 30 WOODSTOCK 50 YEARS AT CIRKUS To celebrate the iconic rock festival, Woodstock, eight Swedish artists will perform their own version of their favorite songs from Woodstock. This event is meant to remind us of the feeling and the energy of the original Woodstock. Tickets range from 595 to 1155 SEK.
NOV 1-3 LEGO WORLD AT KISTAMÄSSAN Whether you are going with children or as a group of adult friends, LEGO World is bound to be fun, as you release your inner creative child! What will you build? Tickets are 219 SEK.
NOV 1-7 YOUNG AND BEAUTIFUL AT ÖSTERLÅNGGATAN 3 Alan Novak’s first solo exhibit is a focus on portrait photography in the fashion industry. He has worked closely with makeup artists and fashion designers to perfect his craft. Entrance to the exhibit is free.
NOV 2-3 ALL HALLOWS’ EVE IN KYRKOGÅRDSÖN This family-friendly event sounds so fun! There will be face painting (will you be scary or sweet?), a quiz, a lottery, pumpkin carving, and a buffet. If you want to carve a pumpkin, but will not be able to get one in time, you can contact the event hosts and they will arrange to have one for you. The buffet costs 180 SEK for “Big Monsters” and 80 SEK for “Small Monsters.”
NOV 2-3 STOCKHOLM DANCE FILM FESTIVAL AT DANSENS HUS In the fifth installment of this festival, we look at how dance is present in our lives and what meaning it has, via a series of films. In addition to film viewings, this festival will have workshops related to film and dance, and conversations with both local and international artists. Festival passes are 265 SEK, or 80 SEK for individual events.
NOV 2 SHOCKHOLM HALLOWEEN PARADE IN KUNGSTRÄDGÅRDEN The parade will begin in Kungsträdgården, after opening ceremonies, performances, and competitions. You will get to walk through Gamla Stan, enjoying live performances along the route, and finish in Kungsträdgården again, where there will be awards and food! What costume will you wear?
NOV 3 LIGHT FESTIVAL AT BRUNNSVIKEN This family-friendly event includes flame shows, a lantern train for children, and dance performances. The festival is large, with events happening all over the Royal National City Park. Most restaurants and cafes around will be open, along with the Carl Eldh’s Ateljemuseum and the Haga Park Museum. NOV 9 STOCKHOLM COFFEE FESTIVAL AT A-HOUSE It is commonly known that Swedes consume a large amount of coffee every year (we know it’s true!). This event gives you a chance to meet with fellow coffee lovers, to try some new coffee tech, and meet Swedish Roasters. Entrance to the event is free.
NOV 16 LIGHTING CEREMONY IN KUNGSTRÄDGÅRDEN Saturday evening, attend the warm welcoming of Christmas with the lighting ceremony. Beginning in Kungsträdgården, you can go on a guided walk through the city, seeing the many decorations in over 40 streets, squares and places in Stockholm. Decorations include Christmas lights, moose, deer, angels and more. These light walks will happen every weekend evening until the end of December.
NOV 21 STOCKHOLM BLABLA LANGUAGE EXCHANGE Whether you are hoping to improve your Swedish, or practice your skills in another language, this event is about language learning in a relaxed and friendly way will find topic suggestions to help you start practicing your language with your new friends.
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NOV 22-24 CHRISTMAS DINNER AT HASSELBACKEN Beginning at the end of November, you can enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner in buffet style at Hasselbacken. You can choose between lunch (545 SEK), a late lunch (795 SEK) or dinner (795 SEK). The price includes mulled wine and gingerbread. If you book your table early, you may receive a 15% discount.
NOV 22-24 GINGERBREAD HOUSE COMPETITION AT ARKDES This year’s theme for the beloved Gingerbread House Competition is “hot.” There are three competitor groups: children up to the age of 12; architects, designers, and professional bakers; everyone else. If you are planning to participate, Friday 22nd – Sunday 24th November are the dates to submit your creation. The exhibit will open Friday 29th November. Admission to the exhibit is free.
NOV 28-30 CHRISTMAS MARKET AT THE ROYAL STABLES At this Christmas market, which features the work of some of Sweden’s finest craftsmen, you will also have the opportunity to view the King’s horses. In addition, there will be a spot to buy traditional Swedish Christmas foods. Entrance to this market is 100 SEK.
NOV 30 SCHYSST JUL AT ABF-HUSET This Christmas market provides you with the opportunity to support organizations that help with human rights and environmental issues. While you find Christmas presents for your loved ones, you can also learn how to become involved with various issues and how you can make a difference.
ARKET FUNC TIONAL WAR MTH
10 % O F F YO U R F I R S T ORDER WITH CODE SCANDI
WHAT TO DO IN LUND, SWEDEN WHERE TO STAY Lund has an abundance of accommodation options, but best known is Grand Hotel. The imposing building located in the centre is, apart from a popular wedding and events venue, a luxury hotel. With a rich heritage dating back to 1899, Grand Hotel is worth a visit even if you’re planning to stay somewhere more affordable. If you want to live more like a “Lund local” an authentic Lund cottage or a light city apartment in the heart of Lund might be something for you!
WHERE TO GET COFFEE The coffee culture is thriving in Lund much thanks to its student population. The popular café Love Coffee has one location (soon to be two) in the town centre. With a courtyard and views across to the Cathedral, Love Coffee is a must-visit for coffee-lovers. Down the road, in an old timber framed cottage, you’ll find Coffee Break. Apart from the coffee, Coffee Break serves delicious cakes and sandwiches.
WHERE TO EAT Lund’s food scene is best described as heaven for vegetarians and vegans. From Ebbas Skafferi (Ebba’s Pantry) and TrueFood Lund to The Herbivore, the options are not only plentiful, but tasty too. If you’re looking for a more traditional sandwich spot, Inkognito has quality paninis for affordable prices. For those of you in the mood for beers and burgers (with meat or without) Tugg Burgers has an extensive selection, best enjoyed in their heated courtyard.
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WHERE TO DRINK Café Ariman is the soul of Lund. This unique café/pub is laid back, fun, and has a great range of beers available. Another popular pub in the center of the city is Inferno. Set in a timbre-framed cottage, it has a large heated outside space and an excellent drinks menu. If you’re on the look-out for a watering hole with tasty pub meals, The Bishops Arms (also a hotel) is the place to go.
WHERE TO SHOP The locals love “loppis shopping” (second-hand shopping) and the city is full of garage sales, pop-ups, and second-hand boutiques. Fyndkällaren Loppis has a large selection of furniture, homeware, and paintings. Check out their social media to see what they have happening at the moment. Erikshjälpen is another popular second-hand destination. They also sell furniture and homeware, but they have a big selection of clothes and accessories too.
WHAT TO SEE There’s always something to marvel over in Lund. Lund Cathedral is undoubtably the town’s main tourist attraction. The church’s distinct exterior has remained the same since it was renovated by architect Helgo Zettervall (who also designed the neighboring Universitetshuset) at the end of the 1800s. After visiting the cathedral, take a walk through the quiet, beautiful North Cemetery, which has an alley lined with trees that offers a charming vista.
WHERE TO GO Of course there’s the famous Lund University, with its grand buildings and stretches of perfect lawn. There’s always something happening on campus, but it’s also just a wonderful place to explore and take in the collegiate atmosphere. Lund also has a lovely selection of parks and green spaces, the most impressive being The Botanical Gardens and Stadsparken, each with their own café for fika.
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SCANDI STAYS: WANÃ…S
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Located 115 miles from the city of Malmö in southern Sweden, Wanaås Hotel, Restaurant, and Sculpture Park is an impeccable parcel of land that offers the chance to relax, recharge, and fill your soul with modern art. From delicious seasonal food sourced locally – much of it from the estate’s own organic farm – to stunning spaces designed to showcase modern art as well as vintage design, this is a unique place and is ideal for a day or weekend trip. The hotel rooms are minimalist and comfortable, while the restaurant serves delicious dishes made from local ingredients. The sculpture park is perhaps the most remarkable part of this wonderful place; featuring modern art from important artists throughout the magical Swedish forest, it is a place you’ll never forget. The Wanås Hotel is housed in 18th century stables built by Elisabeth Jennings, a woman who bought the entire estate and proceeded to modernise it for family and commercial use. In 2017, the family that owns the estate, and has done so for eight generations, decided to turn the former barn and stable structures into a hotel and restaurant. “We were feeling a little isolated,” explains owner and architect Kristina Wachtmeister, “and we thought, instead of always
having to go out in the cities, why don’t we bring the people to us? Then they can share in this incredible space too!” The hotel features 11 rooms, all of which are designed with Scandinavian simplicity that draws on the bones of the building itself. Exposed beams, textured white walls, and deeply in-set windows feature throughout. The bedroom floors are made with oak from Wanås and the bathrooms feature locally-sourced limestone.
through the sculpture park, is a wonderful way to spend a day. Perhaps the biggest treat at Wanås is their incredible art collection. In addition to a gallery that has consistently rotating exhibitions, there’s a large sculpture park integrated throughout 100 acres of verdant forest. The gallery showcases both local and international artists.
Wanås Restaurant was built at the same time as the hotel’s structure, also by Elisabeth Jennings. Check out the inscription above the door; it holds her name and the year the barn was built. The restaurant is light-filled and minimalist, with a slight rustic aesthetic that feels homey and unpretentious. The meals are similar; beautifully-made and plated, but also hearty. Everything they serve is grown or raised locally, either on the farm or within the community. In fact, the farm is careful not to grow everything that the restaurant needs so that they are still able to source a considerable amount from surrounding farms, thereby supporting those farmers. Even if you don’t plan to stay overnight at the hotel, lunch or dinner at Wanås Restaurant, accompanied by a walk
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BRUNCH IN MALMÖ A guide to the best brunch in Malmö, Sweden
After a week of touring the country, nothing is quite as appetizing as the creamy smell of cheese, the faint crunch of freshly baked sourdough, and a freshly squeezed juice on a tray ready to be devoured alongside a hot cup of coffee. The vibrant city bursts with restaurants and cafés from all over the world; the offering is surprisingly large for its mere 300,000 inhabitants. Of course, it’s a quick 30 minutes between Copenhagen and Malmö, so even those from outside the city can easily enjoy its many gems.
NOIR KAFFEKULTUR
MJ’S HOTEL
Noir Kaffekultur is a green oasis tucked in behind Lilla Torg with accommodating outside seating area, making it a perfect spot in which to enjoy the changing seasons. This small café is a charming family-run business offering customers homemade bread, avocado dishes, and a range of delicious cakes and croissants. The staff is delightful and the pastries are always top knotch. They frequently refresh their menu so check their Instagram to stay up-to-date.
This hotel, bar and restaurant has become a favorite brunch location among locals and visitors alike. Their menu “Breakfast Bombastic” – only available in the mornings – lets you enjoy a delicious selection of freshly baked bread, scrambled eggs, tasty cheeses and baked beans in a buffet style setting. MJ’S can get busy on the weekends, especially as hotel guests often like to enjoy the breakfast menu too, so make sure you book a table to avoid a wait.
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SCANDWICH
ATRIUM KAFFEBAR
FAR I HATTEN
As suggested by the pun-tastic name, Scandwich is the place to go if you’re looking to eat a sandwich like no other. The bread creations bear some similarities to the Danish “smørrebørd” (open face sandwiches). Scandwich is fully focused on quality and only has three items on its menu – a sandwich with meat, a vegetarian sandwich, and a vegan option. Don’t be turned off by that, though, their three options are magnificent. Scandwich has two locations, one in Malmö and one in Stockholm, both of which are beloved by locals.
On a quiet side street off of the busy Regementsgatan, you’ll find Atrium Kaffebar. It’s the ultimate hipster brunch spot in Malmö, serving delicious and flavorful dishes and cakes. The menu is small but has everything you’re looking for in a weekend brunch; smashed avocado on toast, egg dishes, muesli bowls, and a range of colorful salads with refreshing vegetables. We recommend the Eggs Benedict – poached eggs with a choice of either smoked salmon or ham on freshly baked bread.
Far i Hatten is best known for its woodfired pizzas and seasonal dishes, but it’s also worth checking out for the brunch menu. The restaurant/café is located in the middle of Folkets Park in a cozy cottage built in 1894 and surrounded by a large garden. The brunch is served between 11 am and 2 pm on Saturdays and consists of a mainly vegetarian buffet. As this is a very popular spot, we recommend booking for brunch (or any other meal).
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HALLOWEEN IN STOCKHOLM What to do in Stockholm on October 31
It’s that spooky time of year again! Though it’s still more of a big deal in the US, Halloween is quickly becoming a favourite autumn holiday for Swedes who are keen to light up the dark evenings, even if it is with a pumpkin or two. More and more Stockholmers are getting onboard with the Halloween fun, with pumpkin-themed festivities, parades and children’s parties taking place across the city. Here are a handful of ways to get your spook on in Stockholm this year.
HALLOWEEN PARADE
HALLOWEEN CRUISE
Scandinavia’s largest Halloween Parade is held this year on November 2. This wild festival kicks off with opening ceremonies and costume competitions at Kungsträdgården, in the city centre.
Back for the ninth year due to popular demand, Halloweenkryssningen (the Halloween Cruise) is Sweden’s biggest floating Halloween party. Hop aboard a Tallink & Elixe Cruise ship bound for Riga for a Baltic cruise of ghostly proportions.
The parade then fires up, heading out onto Gamla Stan’s cobblestone streets (which can be spooky at the best of times!). It’ll continue down towards the docks at Skeppsbron, before returning back to Kungsträdgården for more scarily good entertainment. Dress up in your finest witch or vampire outfits and join the march. The whole event runs from 3.30pm to 6.30pm, meaning it’s a good option for families just be sure to dress warmly!
SKANSEN’S SPOOKY ACTIVITIES Everyone’s favourite open-air museum is hosting a few spooky events as part of its autumn break programme. Visit Skansen in the days before Halloween (26th–30th October) and you can take part in autumnal crafting sessions, eat fiendishly good food, or listed to weird and wild stories in spooky cottages. Tickets are available here.
Rock out on the dance floor to live DJs, put your costume skills to the test with onboard competitions, or just enjoy the enchanted company of ghouls, demons and vampires. This party cruise runs from 1st–3rd Nov, so grab your tickets quick!
GHOST SHIP AT GRÖNA LUND Creepy festivities are making a return to the Gröna Lund amusement park this year. From Oct 18th–20th, and again from Oct 25th–Nov 3rd, the theme park will turn into a spooky graveyard-like affair, with pumpkins, witches and ghosts stalking the grounds. Play it safe with the kids’ corner, home to hay bales and ghost cars, or graduate to the Big Kid section to come face to face with a spooky sect in the park’s latest scream attraction. Do you dare to enter?
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How to travel in Helsinki What’s On in October Five Fun Day Trips Favorite Food Delivery
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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW All the essential information to your trip to Norway
PA SSPOR T VAL I DI T Y Recommend at least six months beyond your period of stay BL A N K PAS S PO R T PAG E S Two pages per stamp TOUR I S T V I SA Not required for stays under 90 days VACCI N AT I O N S None CURR E N C Y R E S TR I CTI O NS FOR E N T RY 25,000 Norwegian Kroner (or equivalent), not including traveler’s checks CURR E N C Y R E S TR I CTI O NS FOR E XI T 25,000 Norwegian Kroner (or equivalent), without prior approval)
L A N G UAG E
W E AT H E R
Norwegian is spoken in Norway. It’s similar to Swedish and Danish, but it’s still very different. You might understand a few Norwegian words if you say them out loud, but in general you will have a tough time understanding Norwegian. Thankfully the people in Norway speak English well.
If you are wondering what to wear in Norway, be prepared for cool temps. At the end of May, it’s getting into the 40’s at night, or 6 Celcius. During the day, temperatures are in the low 50’s to high 60’s. Make sure you bring layers to wear in Norway, so that you can remove layers as it warms up throughout the day. Norway winter is very cold, so be prepared for that with warm clothes.
CURRENCY Norway is not in the European Union, so they do not use the Euro. The currency in Norway is the Norwegian Krone, or NOK, or KR is what is shown on price tags and menus. Krone come in 1000kr, 500kr, 200kr, 100kr, and 50kr. The 1000kr note is pretty uncommon, and if someone gives you one, ask for 2 500kr notes instead as they are easier to spend. The coins come in 1kr, 5kr, 10kr and 20kr. You can use your credit card in most places, but make sure you have a PIN for your credit card. Having your credit card PIN will make transactions go more smoothly and help you avoid any issues. ATM’s in Norway are called a mini-bank and they easy to find in the main cities.
ELEC T R I C AL O U T LET S In Norway, a power adapter is all you’ll need to charge your devices. Electrical plugs in Norway are the same as in mainland Europe, with two round plugs. Your phone, tablet and computer already have a built-in voltage converter.
T R ANSP O R TAT I O N Public transportation in Norway is very good. You can reach almost any destination in Norway using public transportation. Just know that it’s expensive and can take longer that you would expect. The fjords and the terrain of Norway are beautiful, but getting around them adds time to your travels. 61
TRANSPORTATION GUIDE Finding your way through the country of Norway
PLANE Because of the country’s immense natural beauty, Norway transportation here isn’t merely a way to get from Point A to Point B. It also serves as an exceptional way to experience the country, perhaps more so than other places you might travel. It’s quite efficient and reliable, and various forms of public transport often work in tandem to provide seamless connections. For example, a popular unescorted tour called Norway in a Nutshell offers an independent itinerary that takes you to the fjords in one day by combining the country’s best train, ferry and bus rides. However, getting around Norway isn’t cheap, so it pays to plan in advance and search out deals and discounts.
Norway is served by more than 50 airports, eight of which are international. Most out-of-country visitors arrive at Oslo Airport, which is 30 miles north of the city and accessible by train, bus and taxi. Domestic flights are a great option for those seeking to make the most of their time in Norway and for travelers with remote destinations on their itinerary, like the North Cape and Svalbard. SAS Scandinavian Airlines operates the country’s largest fleet. If you’re flying SAS to Norway across the Atlantic Ocean, check out its “Visit Europe and Scandinavia Airpass,” which can offer impressive flight discounts depending on your itinerary. Two regional companies, Wideroe and Danish Air Transport, operate smaller fleets; Wideroe offers its own flight pass called the “Explore Norway Ticket.”
CAR Traveling by car in Norway gives you the freedom to go at your own pace and is generally not difficult. However, winding mountain roads are not for
the faint of heart, and drivers heading into the more isolated north, or those who are traveling during the winter months, will need to do a bit of pre-planning before departure. Most major car rental companies are found in Norway — Hertz, Europcar and Avis among them. Prices can be steep, so shop around online for discounts. You’ll need to be at least 21 years old to rent a car from most companies, and those under 25 will likely pay a surcharge. Many rental companies require that you’ve been driving for at least one year and that you have an International Driving Permit (available from AAA) if you don’t have an EU/EEA license. Confirm whether the rental is a manual transmission or automatic. If your car pickup and drop-off locations differ, expect a substantial price increase. Take advantage of National Tourist Routes, which have visitor centers and viewpoints overlooking the breathtaking scenery along the way. A few driving tips to keep in mind: In the colder months winter tires are required, as snow and ice are common. Smaller roads can close in poor weather conditions.There is no need to stop for tolls on main roads; each car has an electronic tag, and rental companies will pass along the charges to you. On country
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“roads deposit tolls into clearly marked honesty boxes.”Headlights must be on at all times, and every passenger is required to wear a seatbelt.Speed cameras are plentiful and fines are steep, so follow the locals’ example and obey the limit. If you’re pulled over for speeding, expect to pay the ticket on the spot. You should receive a receipt. Using a hand-held phone while driving is illegal. Norway has extremely strict drunk driving laws and a low legal limit; one beer could put you over. Watch for moose along the road, especially in the mountains.When traveling in rural areas, gas stations can be few and far between, so top off at every opportunity. You must carry a yellow fluorescent vest and a red warning triangle in the event of an emergency; make sure your rental car comes equipped.
TRAIN The state-owned Norwegian State Railways — NSB for short — is the country’s primary operator, running both local and regional trains. Tickets can be purchased online, by mobile app, by phone or at ticket machines. A surcharge is assessed for passengers who buy tickets after boarding.
When it comes to long-distance train travel in Norway, it pays to plan as far ahead as possible. NSB sells a limited number of discounted minipris tickets. Minipris can be purchased between three months and 24 hours before departure; on long journeys you can save well over 50 percent compared to a standard-priced seat. They are unavailable on certain routes and at peak periods, and aren’t changeable or refundable. For those planning multiple train trips in Norway, the Eurail Norway pass, is available for three to eight days of travel within one month. NSB’s Bergen line, which begins in Oslo, is one of the highest railways in Europe and a must for those wanting to experience Norway’s natural beauty. The privately owned Flam Railway line takes passengers along one of the world’s steepest and most scenic railways. The 50-minute journey, which passes through 20 tunnels, is considered an engineering feat and one of the world’s best train rides.
BUS Buses are a reliable long-distance transport mode and, perhaps your only public transportation option when traveling to Norway’s small, remote towns.
Nor-Way Bussekspress is the largest long-distance company, teaming up with smaller carriers to form an extensive network. It provides connections with trains and ferries too. Express bus tickets can be bought onboard by credit card, but booking online may reward you with considerable discounts. Note that mountain routes are usually suspended during winter months. Discount carrier Lavprisekspressen offers routes from Oslo to Kristiansand, Trondheim and Stavanger. Tickets can only be purchased online (the website is currently just in Norwegian).
FERRY The only way to visit many of Norway’s isolated islands and coastal villages is by ferry. Ferries are also the best way to experience the country’s dramatic fjords. The most famous ferry voyage is the Hurtigruten, which runs along the western coast between Bergen and Kirkenes. Roundtrip, the entire route covers more than 2,500 miles, stops at more than 30 ports — most of which are above the Arctic Circle — and takes 11 days. You can extend the journey by hopping on and off or shorten it by joining just a section of the trip.
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The 11 ferries that make the voyage vary in age and style, but all include a restaurant and cafeteria, and most can accommodate cars. Though certainly not cruise-ship comparable, the ships and their cabins are comfortable and casual; different features are outlined on the Hurtigruten website. You can book online or call to make reservations. Though the experience isn’t cheap, you can find deals on reservations made well in advance as well as last-minute departures. There are numerous additional operators of regional car ferries and passenger express boats in Norway, including Norled in western Norway and Senja Ferries in the north. In summer months, arrive early to queue for boarding. If your travels include other European nations, ferries connecting Norway to Sweden, Denmark, Germany and the Faroe Islands are available.
TAXI Taxi rides in Norway are pricey and, thanks to efficient public transport options, easily avoided. Rates vary by company and can be paid by kroner or credit card (just let your driver know in advance). Taxi stands are typically easy to spot in cities; you can also hail a cab on the street or order one by phone. You’re not expected to tip your driver, though some customers choose to round up their bill. Oslo Taxi offers service in the capital, and Norges Taxi is found in several cities.
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THIS FALL IN OSLO
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SEPT 1 ACTIVITIES AND CAFÈ AT LANDA PARK Bring your family and experience history up close. The archaeological discoveries at Landa are unique and can point to a history 2,000 year back in time - from the Bronze Age, about 1500 f.Kr, to Migration Period, about 600 AD.
SEPT 1 - NOV 5 MUNCH AND THE RASMUS MEYER COLLECTION As one of the first collectors of Edvard Munch’s art, Rasmus Meyer purchased chief works from all periods of Munch’s oeuvre. In what is today one of the world’s most important collections of Munch’s art, you can find masterpieces such as “Jealousy”, “Melancholy”, “ The Woman in Three Stages” and “Evening on Karl Johan”.
SEPT 4 NORWEGIAN FRUIT AND SALMON FESTIVAL, HJELMELAND The festival focuses on the fruit and berry traditions, and salmon trade, of Ryfylke. A cultural event with activities and entertainment on stage throughout the day - and lots of great food! 30 handicraft exhibitors in Spinneriet and around 50 exhibitors in Vågen.
SEPT 11 GUIDED KAYAK TOUR AROUND JØRPELAND This guided kayaktour from Jørpeland is the top outdoor activity to do at Jørpeland! On this guided kayak tour you will paddle along the beautiful islands outside Jørpeland; nature is around the corner!
SEPT 20 KAPITTEL 19
OCT 1 TRONDHEIM OPEN MUSEUM
Kapittel is a non-commercial literary festival organized in conjunction with the Stavanger public library since 1995. The festival is now one of the largest and best known of its kind in Scandinavia.
The National Museum of Justice holds interesting objects from Norway’s criminal past. See the executioner’s axe, old police cases and torture devices from WW2.
SEPT 23 THE HISTORY OF BEES The History of Bees, based on Maja Lunde’s best-selling novel, is a story about mankind’s first attempts of beekeeping, bees in today’s industrial agriculture and an imagined future where the bees have died.
SEPT 27 THE SALMON STUDIO IS OPEN
OCT 3 MUSIC MEDITATION Welcome to an evening full of relaxing, soothing, liberating live music! If you feel stressed out or if you just want to feel happy inside, this is a perfect opportunity for you to meditate in a fun and easy way.
OCT 9 ENGEGÅRDS QUARTET AND EIVIND H. RINGSTAD
Next to the salmon ladder in the Sandsfossen waterfall at Sand is one of the firsts salmon studios to be built in Norway. The lower part of the salmon studio is under water, allowing us to observe the fish through two large glass windows, as they move up the ladder.
In solo, chamber and orchestral concerts with the finest of Norwegian musicians – and with guests from Beethoven’s two cities Bonn and Vienna – you are invited to take part in the biggest birthday party ever arranged in Sandefjord.
SEPT 29 RISØR FESTUKE IN RISØR
OCT 10 DAS GROSSE OKTOBERFEST 2020
Risør festuke is one week in the autumn of sporting activities and contests for residents and visitors of all ages with many of the active sports clubs in Risør as key stakeholders.
Oktoberfest at the Scandic Maritim Hall with a full-packed evening with Oktoberfest food, Ronald Schnipfelgruber Tyrolkapel, OmpaGirls and competitions with prizes.
SEPT 30 HALDEN CRUISE NIGHT
OCT 10 STAVANGER SENTRUM STREET ART TOURS
Old cars and rock´n roll has been a great part of the cultural life in Halden for many years. Halden Street & Cruisin’ Club together with the nostalgia shop Fønix invites all interested and curious people for a showy American cars event.
Takes you through years of Nuart Festival’s impressive Street Art history and the evolution of Stavanger into one of the world’s leading destinations for Art on the Street.
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OCT 14 GUIDED KAYAK TOUR AROUND JØRPELAND This guided kayaktour from Jørpeland is the top outdoor activity to do at Jørpeland! On this guided kayak tour you will paddle along the beautiful islands outside Jørpeland, the nature is around the corner!
OCT 16 SÅ SOM I HIMMELEN The heart-warming film that made the whole of Norway laugh and cry has become a celebrated musical. Now it is set up in Stavanger Concert Hall.
OCT 17 STAVANGER SENTRUM STREET ART TOURS Takes you through years of Nuart Festival’s impressive Street Art history and the evolution of Stavanger into one of the world’s leading destinations for Street Art.
OCT 18 SØNDAGSJAZZEN Weekly jazzkonsert with free entrance. Søndagsjazzen on Brainnstasjonen have been going on since 2011.
OCT 20 MUNCH AND THE RASMUS MEYER COLLECTION As one of the first collectors of Edvard Munch’s art, Rasmus Meyer purchased chief works from all periods of Munch’s oeuvre. In what is today one of the world’s most important collections of Munch’s art, you can find masterpieces such as “Jealousy”, “Melancholy”, “The Woman in Three Stages” and “Evening on Karl Johan”.
OCT 23 MUSIC MEDITATION Welcome to an evening full of relaxing, soothing, liberating live music! If you feel stressed out or if you just want to feel happy inside, this is a perfect opportunity for you to meditate in a fun and easy way.
OCT 24 MUNCH AND THE RASMUS MEYER COLLECTION As one of the first collectors of Edvard Munch’s art, Rasmus Meyer purchased chief works from all periods of Munch’s oeuvre. In what is today one of the world’s most important collections of Munch’s art, you can find masterpieces such as “Jealousy”, “Melancholy”, “ The Woman in Three Stages” and “Evening on Karl Johan”.
OCT 25 SØNDAGSJAZZEN Weekly jazzkonsert with free entrance. Søndagsjazzen on Brainnstasjonen have ben going on since 2011.
OCT 28 GUIDED KAYAK TOUR AROUND JØRPELAND This guided kayaktour from Jørpeland is the top outdoor activity to do at Jørpeland! On this guided kayak tour you will paddle along the beautiful islands outside Jørpeland, the nature is around the corner!
OCT 31 JANOVE - DET SORTE KARNEVAL Welcome to “Janove - Det Sorte Karneval” at Scandic Maritim Hall.
NOV 1 MUNCH AND THE RASMUS MEYER COLLECTION As one of the first collectors of Edvard Munch’s art, Rasmus Meyer purchased chief works from all periods of Munch’s oeuvre. In what is today one of the world’s most important collections of Munch’s art, you can find masterpieces such as “Jealousy”, “Melancholy”, “The Woman in Three Stages” and “Evening on Karl Johan”.
NOV 2 SØNDAGSJAZZEN Weekly jazzkonsert with free entrance. Søndagsjazzen on Brainnstasjonen have ben going on since 2011.
NOV 7 JANOVE - SENTRUM SCENE A concert with Janove at Sentrum Scene. Lyrics in Norwegian.
NOV 8 MUSIC MEDITATION Welcome to an evening full of relaxing, soothing, liberating live music! If you feel stressed out or if you just want to feel happy inside, this is a perfect opportunity for you to meditate in a fun and easy way.
NOV 14 CREEDENCEMANIA – COSMO´S FACTORY ´50 Lookin´out my back door, Who´ll stop the Rain, Up around the Bend, Travelin Band, Heard it through the Grapevine, Run through the jungle og Long as I can see the Light - all these songs have one thing in common; they are all on the amazing album Cosmo´s Factory!
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NOV 14 OSLO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA In solo, chamber and orchestral concerts with the finest of Norwegian musicians – and with guests from Beethoven’s two cities Bonn and Vienna – you are invited to take part in the biggest birthday party ever arranged in Sandefjord.
NOV 24 A-HA - HUNTING HIGH AND LOW LIVE The 35th anniversary of the Norwegian largest pop success up to now is extended to world tour, while “ Take on Me” passes one billion views on YouTube.
NOV 16 NIGHTWISH - OSLO
NOV 25 SØNDAGSJAZZEN
Concert with the grand and epic metal band Nightwish at Oslo Spektrum.
Weekly jazzkonsert with free entrance. Søndagsjazzen on Brainnstasjonen have ben going on since 2011.
NOV 17 MUNCH AND THE RASMUS MEYER COLLECTION As one of the first collectors of Edvard Munch’s art, Rasmus Meyer purchased chief works from all periods of Munch’s oeuvre. In what is today one of the world’s most important collections of Munch’s art, you can find masterpieces such as “Jealousy”, “Melancholy”, “ The Woman in Three Stages” and “Evening on Karl Johan”
NOV 21 PULSE OF FLOYD Pink Floyd Tribute held in Sanden 2, Larvik in collaboration with Bølgen Kulturhus
NOV 22 MUSIC MEDITATION
NOV 27 MUNCH AND THE RASMUS MEYER COLLECTION As one of the first collectors of Edvard Munch’s art, Rasmus Meyer purchased chief works from all periods of Munch’s oeuvre. In what is today one of the world’s most important collections of Munch’s art, you can find masterpieces such as “Jealousy”, “Melancholy”, “ The Woman in Three Stages” and “Evening on Karl Johan”
NOV 29 MUSIC MEDITATION Welcome to an evening full of relaxing, soothing, liberating live music! If you feel stressed out or if you just want to feel happy inside, this is a perfect opportunity for you to meditate in a fun and easy way
Welcome to an evening full of relaxing, soothing, liberating live music! If you feel stressed out or if you just want to feel happy inside, this is a perfect opportunity for you to meditate in a fun and easy way.
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NINE AMAZING ISLANDS IN NORTHERN NORWAY Unforgetable destinations waiting for you
SVALBARD Norway is famous for its natural beauty, and while the fjords and the northern lights always seem to make it onto tourists’ itineraries, the country’s stunning islands rarely get a look in. If you’ve got the time to spare, these beautiful islands in the north of the country are well worth a visit. Go in the winter for snowy wonderlands and dancing aurora, or wait until summer for wild flowers, blissfully empty beaches and gorgeous, slow-motion sunsets.
Norway’s northernmost archipelago, Svalbard offers so many opportunities for getting outdoors and reconnecting with raw, untamed nature. From hiking in the mountains to going dog-sledding in the snow, there are lots of guided tours on offer, but solo exploration can be difficult (not to mention downright dangerous, thanks to local population of polar bears). Other options include going snowmobiling or exploring the abandoned Russian mining settlement known as Pyramiden. Svalbard has become a popular winter and summer destination in recent years, so you’ll find plenty to do all year round. This is a not an adventure you should embark on lightly, though; this guide to visiting Svalbard has more on how to get there and what to see and do when you arrive
MAGERØY Further south but still a long way from being tropical, Magerøy is sometimes called the northernmost point in mainland Europe. Of course it’s actually an island, so that statement is not strictly true, but it is connected to the mainland by a long undersea tunnel.(Nordkapptunnelen) Magerøy – a wild, edge-of-the-world
place – has long fascinated visitors, and archaeologists have found traces of human activity dating back some 10,000 years. The island looks magnificent during the winter, when the handful of pretty, coloured houses stand out against the endless white snow, but it’s really best visited during the summer (as with all of these islands, it’s light around the clock for much of May, June and July). The island’s main attraction is undoubtedly the North Cape, where a vast, flat-topped sea cliff provides life-affirming views of the sea and the midnight sun. If you’ve got a car you can drive there using Europe’s northernmost road – alternatively, you’re at the mercy of the Hurtigruten cruises or the public buses from Honningsvåg, in the southeastern part of the island.
KVALØYA (HAMMERFEST) If you’re already driving as far as the North Cape, you should definitely make time for a detour to the island of Kvaløya – and specifically, the picture-perfect town of Hammerfest. Together with Vardø in the very northeast of Norway, Hammerfest is the oldest town in the country. Here you’ll find colourful, chocolate-box houses and one part of the Struve Geodetic Arc, a huge, 71
multi-country-spanning contraption that was used to measure the size and shape of the Earth back in the 1800s. You’ll also be able to enjoy the beautiful viewpoint up at Mount Salen – you can see pretty much all of Hammerfest from up here. Before you leave town, make sure to become a member of the exclusive ‘Royal and Ancient Polar Bear Society’ down at the Hurtigruten pier! Upon joining (a process which costs around 180 NOK and helps to support the exhibition) you’ll receive a lovely bear-shaped pin. Wear it proudly, polar bear lover!
features with its tropical counterparts – expect plenty of sandy beaches and turquoise water, along with colourful wooden cabins (these can be rented at Sommarøy Arctic Hotel). Granted, neither the water nor the air temperatures invite you to take a dip in the ocean, and the island is known for its strong gales, but looks-wise it’s an absolute beaut, and is well worth the hour’s drive from the Tromsø. Go for a hike and enjoy the views – but remember you’re in the Arctic, so dress accordingly!
SENJA KVALØYA (NEAR TROMSØ) Kvaloya is a pretty island near Tromso The second island in this guide with the same name, this particular Kvaløya lies around 28km west of Tromsø. This is Norway’s fifth-largest island and it’s connected to the city of Tromsø by a bridge; you can make the entire ‘crossing’ in around 40 minutes. The island is exceptionally pretty to look at and its mountainous interior offers up spectacular views and the promise of some memorable wildlife encounters (reindeer run wild and there are often eagles circling overhead). Another nice highlight to look out for on Kvaløya is the open-air museum called Hella. Situated close to ancient rock carvings and at a bay that’s great for fishing and watching the Hurtigruten cruise ships glide by, Hella makes a great destination for a road trip from Tromsø if you want to escape the city and explore the landscapes of Northern Norway. There are plenty of cosy rental properties here, in case you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
SOMMARØY Named the ‘summer island’ by optimistic locals, Sommarøy feels a long way from the Caribbean, but it does share certain
Senja is Norway’s second-biggest island and a paradise for any hiker, skier or photographer, with endless possibilities to take beautiful pictures or just get out and enjoy the great outdoors. The easiest way to get to Senja is to take a plane to Bardufoss and then rent a car at the airport, or make the three-hour drive from Tromsø. Another (very scenic) option would be to take the Hurtigruten cruise or the regular passenger ferry from Tromsø to Finnsnes.
VESTERÅLEN ISLANDS The Vesterålen Islands are just north of the Lofoten Islands and are home to similarly stunning landscapes, but they tend to be a little less crowded – making them the perfect destination if you want to see Norway without any of the tourist hubbub. There are a few great places to stay, and prices tend to be a little lower than in Lofoten. Another advantage of heading to Vesterålen is that you’ll have the chance to go whale watching. While this is also possible in Tromsø during the winter, the whales appear around the Vesterålen Islands pretty much all year round. If you want to visit, the easiest option is to base yourself in Andenes, at the archipelago’s northernmost tip – it’s home to an airport and a couple of nice hotels.
LOFOTEN ISLANDS The spectacular Lofoten Islands are understandably high on many tourists’ itineraries when visiting northern Norway and although the islands do tend to be quite crowded these days – especially in the summer – there still are some serene spots left that will leave you feeling awestruck. The tiny archipelago of Røst, for example, is right at the very edge of Lofoten, 100km from the mainland. The biggest island here, Røstlandet, has a total area of just four square miles but is surrounded by hundreds of smaller, uninhabited islands (well, uninhabited by people, at least). Almost a million birds nest out here during summer, including lots of cute puffins. You can get to Røst by plane or ferry from Bodø on the Norwegian mainland.
KJERRINGØY Kjerringøy is actually a peninsula, rather than an island, but as it can only be reached by ferry, we think it’s worth including in this round up of northern Norway’s best islands. This old trading post lies around 30 minutes north of Bodø, and tends to hit its stride in the summer, when visitors can learn more about the history of the area, enjoy typical Norwegian waffles topped with brown cheese, or just wander along the beach and admire the views. If you’re in need of a bit more action, head to Sjunkhatten National Park for a hike in the mountains – with a little bit of luck, you might also meet some of the resident reindeer.
Explore. Fjällräven.
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Norway
SEEING THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN NORWAY A beautiful display of a natural northern phenomenon
NORTHERN LIGHTS IN NORWAY Despite the bone-numbingly cold temperatures, Norway’s far north has become the place to be in winter. This is a beautiful area to explore with lots of fun activities to enjoy, but the main reason people turn up is simple: to see the magical northern lights, which dance across the inky black skies in beautiful swirls of colour.
This guide will give you tips on when to visit Norway for the best chance of seeing the northern lights, and will also give you some suggestions on the best places to see the lights – from Bodø and Alta on the Norwegian mainland to more remote places like Lofoten and Svalbard. We’ve also rounded up some of the best northern lights tours, in case you fancy getting off the beaten track or simply want to learn how to photograph the aurora. Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the northern lights in Norway.
IS NORWAY A GOOD PLACE TO SEE THE LIGHTS? Well, it can be expensive. But there are loads of positive reasons for choosing Norway for your northern lights adventure. It’s safe, it’s easy to get around, and large parts of the country are far enough north to give you a good chance of seeing the lights. There’s a good selection of hotels and hostels in the north of Norway. You’ll never have too much trouble finding somewhere to stay. In northern Norway you also have the ability to mix aurora spotting with a look around fjords, or a trip up into the mountains.
If you’re worried about the costs adding up, and your main mission is to experience the northern lights, our advice would be to consider Sweden instead – it’s a little cheaper and you’ll have just as much chance of seeing the lights.
WHERE CAN I SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN NORWAY? For the most part, you’ll only be able to see the aurora in the northern part of Norway. Experts say your chances will increase the nearer you get to the socalled ‘auroral zone’, a band that stretches around the planet around 2000–3000km from the magnetic pole. The good news is that lots of places in Norway fall under that band. As a very rough guide, the area between Bodø and Svalbard is usually considered the best for seeing the northern lights in Norway.
TOURS TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS Tours to see the northern lights Joining an organised northern lights tour in Norway can be expensive, but it makes a lot of sense if you want to get out into the countryside, learn some new photography skills or combine auroraspotting with another outdoor activity. 75
On this amazing three-hour sailing tour from Tromsø, you’ll glide out into a fjord aboard a catamaran and find the perfect place to watch the aurora, far from major sources of light pollution. Another option near Tromsø is this husky sledding adventure, which includes a campfire meal and the chance to meet some very eager doggies.
Needless to say, you’ll need a bit of planning and a bit of luck: it really is possible to spend a long weekend (or even a couple of weeks) in the north of Norway without seeing the northern lights. For that reason, never let tour companies tell you that you’ll definitely see the lights – they just don’t know that the conditions will be right.
If you’re visiting Lofoten, this small group minibus tour is ideal for first timers looking to catch a glimpse of the northern lights (it can be rebooked if the weather doesn’t look good or if there isn’t any sign of solar activity).
Despite all that, there are some things you can do to boost your chances of seeing the lights. The places we’ve picked out below are known for their clear skies and frequent displays, so it pays to visit one of those. You should also leave yourself plenty of time. You might get lucky, but only having one night in the north is going to cut your chances significantly.
Of course, if the conditions are right, there’s nothing to stop you catching the lights well outside that area. It’s not unheard of to see them as far north as Svalbard or as far south as Oslo – but realistically, the chances of you seeing green skies over the Norwegian capital are very low. There are other factors at play, beyond your latitude. The intensity of overhead displays depends a lot on the amount of solar activity, and of course you won’t be able to see any lights if it’s still daylight (a serious consideration during Norway’s bright summer). Then there’s the weather to think about – even if all other conditions are perfect,
WHEN’S THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN NORWAY? Theoretically, you should be able to see the northern lights whenever it gets properly dark. For northern Norway that means any time between late September and early April. You might get lucky and be able to see the aurora in early September or late April, but you will have far fewer hours of darkness to play with.
There’s really not much chance of you seeing the northern lights during Norway’s summer (roughly May to August). There might be solar activity but the sun barely sets in northern parts of the country, so it never really gets dark enough. For the absolute best chance of seeing the lights, you should arrive during the middle of winter, when the sky is completely dark around the clock. In simple terms, less light means there’s more chances for you to see the aurora. The only downside to arriving at this time of year is the extreme cold – temperatures can stay well below freezing for weeks on end. You should also consider whether you want to do other activities, as the lack of daylight and warmth can make things like long hikes and husky tours very tricky. If you’d like a solid recommendation, our advice is to visit Norway on either side of the winter. The shoulder seasons of late-September–early November, and March–April will give you much milder temperatures.
Norway
WHERE ARE THE BEST PLACES TO SEE THE LIGHTS IN NORWAY? Tromsø and the Lyngen Alps The biggest city in Norway’s north – Tromsø – has endless opportunities for northern lights safaris and tours. Happily, Tromsø also has dozens of restaurants, cafes, museums and stores to check out during the daytime, and there’s some great nature and wildlife on its doorstep. For example, if you make the trip up here during the polar night (when it’s dark around the clock) you might be able to spot some orcas or humpback whales out in the fjords. The Fjellheisen cable car is well worth a ride on to – not only does it offer a stunning view of the city from above, but it’s also a great and unusual spot from which to view northern lights. The biggest advantage Tromsø can offer passing aurora hunters is its proximity to the Lyngen Alps, at the border with Finland. Only a two-hour drive from the city, this mountain range serves as a cover from bad weather coming in from the sea – making sure that your chances of spotting the aurora at the border are just a little bit higher than anywhere else around Tromsø. A two-hour flight from Oslo, Stockholm or London, Tromsø is
best reached by plane. There are no train connections but if slow travel is your thing, you can hop aboard the Hurtigruten coastal steamer and travel all the up way from Bergen.
Bodø Bodø is not as well known as Tromsø and often tends to be overlooked, but this coastal city is a great alternative if you want to skip the crowds and explore off the beaten path. There are several national parks nearby, including Rago and Sjunkhatten (near Fauske). The Kjerringøy peninsula offers plenty of outdoor activities (and darkness!) as well. Besides being a great playground for adventurers and northern lights photographers, the city of Bodø itself has some stunning street art and plenty of authentic Norwegian cuisine to offer, making it a great all-round destination. Like Tromsø, Bodø is best reached by plane from Oslo or by Hurtigruten cruise from Bergen. It’s connected to the railway network, so you can take the train from Trondheim too. Even so, you’ll want to rent a car to get the most out of your time in the area.
The Lofoten and Vesterålen Islands Arguably the most beautiful place on this list, the Lofoten and Vesterålen Islands offer wild landscapes and plenty of darkness at night – perfect to watch the aurora dancing in the sky. While the small town of Svolvær in Lofoten offers excellent restaurants and bars, as well as dozens of activities and tours to choose from, the smaller villages like Henningsvær and Unstad offer little but vistas and raw nature – perfect if you’d like to experience the true soul of northern Norway. Andenes in Vesterålen then again is another great spot if you want to catch a glimpse of whales, in addition to the northern lights. To reach Lofoten, you can fly from Oslo, Tromsø and Bodø. Alternative you can take a ferry/express boat from Bodø, or take a Hurtigruten cruise from Bergen. Vesterålen can be reached by air from both Bodø and Tromsø.
Alta Calling itself the city of the northern lights, this town in coastal Finnmark might be exactly what you’re looking for. Compact and with just enough cafes, stores and museums to keep 77
you entertained, it’s also pure and wild. Besides the unique Northern Lights cathedral (modelled on the wisps of colour that dance in the sky) Alta’s highlights include the ancient rock carvings found at Alta museum, the grand Sautso Canyon, and the famous Igloo Hotel at Sorrisniva. You can fly to Alta from Oslo or Tromsø but there’s also a bus from Tromsø. If you’re on a wider trip through Finnmark, you can use the bus connections from Hammerfest, Honningsvåg and Kirkenes. Svalbard Situated halfway between the mainland of Norway and the North Pole, Svalbard is as remote as it gets. If you like the idea of a polar night that lasts three months, and the thought of venturing out into polar bear territory doesn’t scare you away, this place is for you! Thanks to the archipelago’s location at 78° north, Svalbard is one of the few places in the world where you can reliably see aurora during the daytime. This increases your chances of seeing the lights enormously, but you’ll obviously have to dig a little deeper to pay for the trip. Svalbard can be reached by plane from Oslo or Tromsø. When booking accommodation, make sure to search for a hotel in Longyearbyen and not the Russian settlement of Barentsburg – although it may be cheaper, it can usually only be reached by snowmobile in winter.
TIPS FOR SEEING THE LIGHTS Find darkness Light is the enemy so regardless of where you are, try to get away from sources of artificial illumination. Once you’re away from streetlights and cars, let your eyes adjust to the darkness – even looking at a torch or a phone screen can make it trickier to see the lights. You might want to use a red light, which is less likely to affect your night vision. Use an app There are a few free services out there which monitor solar activity and let you know when it’s likely you’ll be able to see the northern lights. We usually use
the aurora alerts from Soft Serve News – if you follow them on Twitter you can get free alerts. Usually there’s enough warning for you to wrap up, head outside and get to a nice dark spot before the show begins. Wait until there’s activity Rather than freezing outside, find a nice warm spot by a window (or in your car with the lights off) and wait for some activity. Once you see the a glimmer of green in the sky, it’s time to step outside. Be patient The lights come and go, and may disappear for a long time or simply not show up at all. The best thing is to be patient (whatever you do, wrap up warm and carry a thermos with something hot in it). Don’t forget insurance Norway is a safe place but our advice is very simple: you still need travel insurance. A good policy can make a world of difference if things go wrong when you’re in the middle of nowhere watching the northern lights. The best policies also offer trip cancellation cover, so that you could get the money for your tour back if there is an emergency.
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THE PERFECT STATEMENT EARRINGS This Oslo-based multidisciplinary studio makes their gorgeous goods by hand
Norway
Founded in 2018 by Linda Christiansen and Mikal Strøm, Oslo-based Mold Atelier is a full service creative studio that does everything from art direction to brand consulting. They also design products, most notably their gorgeous, sculptural earrings. Rendered in brass, Mold Atelier’s earrings are both light and make a statement. Linda, a designer and stylist, makes all the jewelry by hand in the studio. She began creating pieces for herself in 2017. Friends started requesting them, so Linda began producing more. She named the earring designs from the first collection after important people in her life; finding ways that the shapes remind her of their personalities. The second collection, “Stones Collection,” was inspired by Linda and Mikal’s road trip through the American Great Basin Desert, where nature has shaped the topography into shapes that seem to challenge gravity. The earrings are made of .15 mm brass sheets. They’re incredibly thin and sleek. “ The earrings are really time consuming to make,” Mikal explains, “so we’re working towards finding other solutions. At the moment, we don’t have stock – each order is custom-made. We’re exploring having the shapes laser-cut, which would make things much easier. But that’s all in
the future! For now, the earrings are handmade.” But the making of the jewelry is just the beginning. “The brass is polished matte. It has a life of its own and develops this really nice patina due to oxidation. So the jewelry is not only long lasting, but it changes over time,” Mikal explains. If, however, you’d like your jewelry to go back to its original shine, just wash it gently in soapy, warm water. It’s the sculptural aspect of the earrings that are most interesting. They’re both on-trend and timeless. Their most popular pair, called “Two Stones,” looks like jewelry designed by Barbara Hepworth: visually weighty, yet somehow otherworldly. If you’re looking for that perfect pair of statement earrings, these will look good for a lifetime.
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NORWAY’S BEST NATIONAL PARKS The most unspoiled areas of natural beauty
Norway
Norwegians are rightly proud of their gorgeous landscapes, and they take a serious attitude towards conservation. As a result of this, Norway’s parks are an excellent place to spot any number of rare creatures including musk oxen, sea eagles and arctic foxes. But wildlife spotting isn’t the only attraction here. Adventure lovers will also find lots of things to do in Norway’s protected areas, such as cycling, skiing, hiking and kayaking. Best of all, most of the parks also feature a helpful network of huts and cabins where you can cosy up after a busy day of exploring. Read on to discover some of the best national parks to visit in Norway, along with practical information such as where to stay during your trip.
JOSTEDALSBREEN NATIONAL PARK In the western part of Norway, right in the middle of fjord country, Jostedalsbreen National Park is home to some of the country’s most stunning scenery. This is also where you’ll find the Jostedalsbreen glacier, the largest icecap in mainland Europe. Over many thousands of years, this vast glacier has shaped the landscape around it into a mix of steep mountains and tree-lined valleys. Needless to say, there are some truly amazing hikes in this part of Norway, including both easy routes and more demanding mountainside treks. In some areas, you can even walk on parts of the glacier itself – although for safety reasons you’ll need to do this in the company of a local guide. Jostedalsbreen also borders the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway. Here you can enjoy a whole host of outdoor activities, including camping and kayaking.
Getting there The best way to get to the national park is to drive (if you need to hire a car try this page, which lets you find good rates on short-term rentals). Depending on your route, you can take the Riksvei 604 to Jostedalen, the E5 to Fjærland, the E39 to Jølster, the Riksvei 60 to Oldedalen and Lodalen, or the E15 to Erdalen. From those places you’ll find smaller roads that will take you further into some of the valleys of the national park, including Fjærland, Jostedalen, Stardalen, Veitastrond, Lodalen, Erdalen and Oldedalen. What is there to see and do in Jostedalsbreen? Join a guided hike onto the Nigardsbreen glacier, and explore magical blue‑ice caves. Take a trip on the Loen Skylift, a thrilling cable‑car ride up to the top of Mount Hoven. Enjoy a cruise down the Nærøyfjord, one of Norway’s only two Unesco-listed fjords. At some points, this beautiful valley narrows to only 250 metres wide. Where can I stay in Jostedalsbreen? There are a wide range of accommodation options available at Jostedalsbreen National Park. You could try pitching your tent in one of the park’s designated camping spots, or hiring a cabin for the night. Reliable options include the Briksdalsbre Mountain Lodge and the cabins at Aabrekk Gard. On the other hand, if you’re after more luxury during your stay, there are also a number of hotels to choose from, including Nigardsbreen Hotel or Jostedal Hotel.
STABBURSDALEN NATIONAL PARK At the very top of Norway lies the spectacular Stabbursdalen National Park, which encompasses the world’s northernmost pine forest.
including predators such as wolverine and lynx. Stabbursdalen also includes some excellent hiking trails, as well as rivers where you can try your hand at fishing for wild Norwegian salmon. And this far north, when you finally bed down for the night, you’ll also stand a good chance of spotting ethereal northern lights dancing in the sky above you. Getting there If you’re taking the E6 from the south, you’ll want to drive around 13km past the centre of Lakselv. If you’re coming along the E6 from the north, you’ll find the entrance around 2km south of the bridge that crosses over the Stabbur river. There should be a signposted entrance on a gravel path, and you’ll find a car park after around 6km.
What is there to see and do in Stabbursdalen? Book yourself onto a dog‑sledding adventure, and experience being whisked through the snowy landscape by a team of eager huskies. Learn more about the indigenous Sami people who inhabit this part of Norway, and discover some of their customs and traditions. Spend a night at the Sorrisniva igloo hotel in the arctic town of Alta, which opens its doors every January, Where can I stay in Stabbursdalen? Near to the Stabbursdalen national park, you can choose from a range of serviced cabins for hire, including those offered by Stabbursdalen Resort, and Stabbursdalen Lodge. Within the park, the only accommodation option is the Ivarstua cabin, which is open for visitors to spend the night. This basic wooden cabin includes beds, an outdoor toilet and a wood burning stove.
This remote and enigmatic area sits well within the Arctic Circle, and is characterised by vast plains and towering mountains. It also shelters a number of rare animal species, 83
DOVREFJELL-SUNNDALSFJELLA NATIONAL PARK Close to the centre of Norway, the imposing Dovrefjell mountain range i s something of a national landmark. The highest peak in the range, Snøhetta, lies more than 2,280m above sea level, making this area an excellent challenge for experienced hikers. There’s so much more to see here than just mountains. Visitors to the Dovrefjell‑Sunndalsfjella National Park will find verdant wetlands, lush valleys and old‑fashioned dairy farms dotting the landscape. The park also plays home to some of Norway’s more unusual and charismatic inhabitants – a herd of wild musk‑ox. These giant, shaggy creatures were shipped over in the middle of the 20th Century, and have gone on to thrive in the national park. Getting there If you’re coming by train, take the Dovre line to Oppdal, Kongsvold, Hjerkinn or Dombås, or the Rauma line to Åndalsnes, Bjorli or Lesja. For those travelling by car or bus, there are also a number of roads that lead into the national park. Options include the E6 over Dovrefjell, the E136 from Dombås to Åndalsnes, the Riksvei 660 from Åndalsnes to Sunndalsøra, or Riksvei 70 from Sunndalsøra to Oppdal. What is there to see and do in DovrefjellSunndalsfjella? Visit the Snøhetta Viewpoint, a stylish modern building in curved timber and glass, and enjoy the view out over one of Norway’s most awe‑inspiring mountains.Book yourself onto a muskox safari, and witness these impressive arctic creatures in their natural habitat.
Where can I stay in DovrefjellSunndalsfjella? While in the national park, it’s worth staying for a night at the Nyheim Lodge. This beautiful old hotel was once the summer retreat of an English upperclass family, and much of the furniture has been kept from this period. If you’re planning to hike through the Dovrefjell region, you’ll also find many mountain cabins where you can stop for a rest. Some of the best cabins include Åmotdalshytta, Grøvudalshytta and
Gammelsetra – all of which are self‑service and can be booked through the Norwegian Trekking Association’s website.
FEMUNDSMARKA NATIONAL PARK The Femundsmarka national park sits on the border with Sweden and, together with adjoining nature reserves, forms one of the largest areas of preserved wilderness in southern Scandinavia.
The park is especially known for its network of lakes and wetlands, home to a range of bird species such as golden eagles, Siberian jays and black‑throated divers. Some of the most popular activities in Femundsmarka national park include canoeing, sport fishing and hiking.
This is also one of the best places in Norway to go foraging and berry‑picking; in summer, you might even stumble across a bush of tasty, bright‑orange cloudberries – referred to by Norwegians as ‘highland gold’. Getting there If you’re travelling from Røros by bus or car, Road 532 will lead you to the park’s Synnervika/Langen Tourist Centre. You can also take Road 221 from Elverum, Rena or Koppang to Elgå. In summer, you can also take the boat called ‘MS Fæmund II’ across Femunden Lake – it departs from Buvika, Elgå, Jonasvollen, Femundshytta, Synnervika, and Femundsenden, stopping at Haugen, Røosen and Revlingen. Full details and the sailing schedule can be found here. What is there to see and do in Femundsmarka? Visit the nearby Unesco-listed mining settlement of Røros. This enchanting town is home to lots of traditional wooden buildings, some of which date back to the 17th century. Sign up for a guided canoeing trip among Femundsmarka’s many lakes,
rivers and wetlands. This is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors, see some splendid birdlife, and take a break from the hectic pace of everyday living. Where can I stay in Femundsmarka? There are plenty of places to stay within the Femundsmarka national park, including serviced and self‑service cabins as well as open huts. Some of the best options for overnighting in the park include Femund Nasjonalparkhotell, and the cabins at Båtstø Camping.
ICEL LAND OF FIRE AND ICE
AND
Iceland
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW All the essential information for your trip to Iceland
PASSPORT VALIDITY Three months required, Recommend at least six months beyond your period of stay. BLANK PASSPORT PAGES Two pages for entry stamp TOURIST VISA REQUIRED Not required for stays under 90 days VACCINATIONS None CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY Any amount over 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) must be declared CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT Any amount over 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) must be declared
LANGUAGE
WEATHER
Icelandic is the official language spoken in Iceland. There’s little chance you will crack the code on speaking Icelandic on your first visit to Iceland. Luckily, English is spoken everywhere in Iceland, even amongst the children.
37-45°F in October with an average of a 43% chance of precipitation.
CURRENCY Sometimes you’ll see prices quoted in Euros, but the currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Krona, or ISK. The bills come in 10,000 ISK, 5,000 ISK, 1,000 ISK and 500 ISK. Coins start at 1 ISK, 5 ISK, 10 ISK, 50 ISK and 100 ISK. The best way to get Iceland Krona for spending is at the ATM. Keep in mind that as you drive around the country, it can get very isolated, so you won’t find an ATM in every village. Get the cash you need when you arrive in Reykjavik. Thankfully, credit cards are also widely accepted in Iceland.
ELECTRICAL OUTLETS Electrical outlets in Iceland are the same as most European countries. The plugs in Iceland have two circle plugs. Make sure you have an adapter to charge your electrical devices in Iceland because you’ll be taking lots of pictures!
TRANSPORTATION Your best option for getting around Iceland is to rent a car. A recommended rental vehicle is a 4WD, which gives you more options for exploring off the beaten path. There is public transportation in Iceland, but the buses don’t run very often, and you won’t have the flexibility to pull off at any landmarks.
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TRANSPORTATION GUIDE How to use public transportation in Reyjavik
STRÆTÓ Not sure how to use public transportation in Reykjavik? It’s easy on foot when the weather allows, but during the colder months in Iceland it doesn’t feel entirely inviting, or when pulling luggage or carrying packages. The main form of transportation in Reykjavík is the bus, or Strætó as the locals call it. There is no metro, train or ferry service in Reykjavik. Luckily, the bus service is both accessible and affordable. Need help getting around Reykjavik? Here’s how to use public transport in the capital:
Strætó (or Straeto for simplified spelling) is the Reykjavik bus service and offers an extensive coverage of the city, with every corner and neighborhood of Reykjavik on its route, running seven days a week. The regular buses run between approximately 6:30 am and midnight, with night buses running a few times throughout the wee hours of the morning. For exact times, see the bus route timetables.
HOW MUCH DOES A STRÆTÓ BUST TICKET COST IN REJKJAVIK? Strætó tickets cost 470 ISK (25 DKK/3.40 EUR) per ride.
HOW TO BUY A STRÆTÓ BUS TICKET IN REYKJAVIK? We recommend downloading the Strætó app before you hop on that ‘brighter than the sun’ yellow bus. The website is convenient as well, but the app includes a payment method using Visa or Mastercard, so you can forgo worrying about having 470 ISK in your pocket. Tickets are availiabe on board, but you need to have the exact change.
REYKJAVIK BUS ZONES AND ROUTES There are no zones for taking buses in Reykjavik; there’s just one standard fare. Strætó’s network consists of 27 routes in Reykjavik and 21 additional routes throughout the country. You can plan and map your trip by simply putting in a start and end point on the Strætó website. All information is easily found on either the website or app, including timetables and a real time map showing where youranticipated bus is currently located.
STRÆTÓ APP You can purchase both bus cards and single rides on the app. It’s preferred to activate your ticket on the app before entering the bus. Activation lasts for 75 minutes. When traveling outside the capital via Strætó purchase Country Ticket.
ARE BIKES ALLOWED ON THE BUS? Bikes are permitted on the bus, if room allows. There’s a designated area for bicycles, baby carriages, and wheelchairs in the center of the bus. Baby carriages and wheelchairs dp have priority access
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ARE PETS ALLOWED ON THE BUS? Strætó welcomes pets, but all furry friends must enter through the back door of the bus and stay in the back during the ride. Pets are not allowed during peak hours (between 7 – 9 am and 3 – 6 pm) due to passengers with allergies. Dogs must be on a tight leash or in a secure bag or carrier.
IS THERE A RAILWAY SYSTEM IN REYKJAVIK? There is currently no railway system in Reykjavik. A light railway system has been proposed and the municipality is now exploring this option.
WHAT ARE THE OTHER FORMS OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION IN REYKJAVIK? Strætó is the main form of public transportation in Reykjavik. There are also taxis available, as well as private coach lines.
A BIT OF FUN The former main Strætó terminal, Hlemmur, has been repurposed as a gourmet food hall with a variety of market-driven vendors. It’s an entirely different world than the depressing vibe Hlemmur had for decades prior to the welcomed transformation in 2017!
TRANSPORTATION TIPS There’s free WIFI on the bus. Schedules tend to be minimized on holidays. Double check your scheduled route when traveling at night and weekends. There’s a Strætó route from Keflavik International Airport to Reykjavik. Children under 6 yrs old are free, but there’s a discounted fee for children 6 – 17 years old, those that are disabled, and elderly people who are over 67 years old.
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THIS FALL IN REYKJAVIK
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SEPT 1 TANGO PRACTICA AT SÓLON BISTRO Master the art of tango dancing on a Sunday afternoon, and with free admission, you can easily drop some krónas on a beverage or two. Come with a friend or possibly meet your tango partner there. This charming event is hosted by Snorri Sigfús Birgisson.
SEPT 2 OLD HARBOR BREWERY TOUR Explore the vibrancy of the repurposed Old Harbor area, with a tour of a local favorite craft brewery. Pay what you want for the tour and enjoy great deals at the bar. Follow Me In Iceland are known for their high quality food and beverage tours. An ideal afternoon to enjoy folk tales and craft beer toasts.
SEPT 5-7 OKTÓBERFEST SHÍ 2019 Októberfest is a three day musical feast, celebrating its 17th year. The lineup is only the biggest and most vibrant musical talent Iceland has to offer, including Herra Hnetusmjör, Friðrik Dór Auður, Jón Jónsson, GDRN and Vök, to name a few.
SEPT 12 SEASONAL HARVEST PRESERVED Root vegetables, cucumbers, tomatoes and other delicious harvests will be preserved for the coming winter as pickled goods and chutney. We’re excited about this culinary fun and particularly about all the goods we get to bring home with us, yum!
SEPT 12-15 EXTREME CHILL FESTIVAL SEPT 3 BRUUN RASMUSSEN ART VALUATION AT NORDIC HOUSE Do you have a piece of art, a book or coins and stamps that you’d like to know its worth? Bring it to Nordic House and meet Bruun Rasmussen, you’ll never know its worth by guessing. For larger objects bring a photo to learn the value of your treasure for a possible future auction.
SEPT 4–8 REYKJAVIK JAZZ FESTIVAL Reykjavik Jazz Festival has been held annually since 1990, every year presenting the strongest local talent as well as prominent international guests. Focusing on modern original jazz including nordic jazz, avant garde, as well as something for kids and the non-jazzer.
Extreme Chill has never been this large, taking up four main venues in central Reykjavík. A four-day eclectic music festival featuring local and foreign musicians of all ages, with diverse backgrounds uniting under the inspiration of Icelandic nature.
SEPT 14 REYKJAVÍK FOOD FESTIVAL With all the new Icelandic restaurants Reyljavik has to offer, how do you decide where to have your next meal? Reykjavík Food Festival rounds up rich and tasty bites across town, curated for passionate foodies to eat their way across town in a day.
SEPT 17 ME TOO – MOVING FORWARD Join Reykjavík for a powerful Nordic conference, covering the impact and afterlife of the #MeToo movement. This conference is a part of the Icelandic Presidency of the Nordic
Council of Ministers in 2019 and is organised in collaboration with RIKK, Institute for Gender, Equality and Difference at the University of Iceland. Free of charge and registration is encouraged to secure a spot.
SEPT 18 OPENING AT KLING & BANG The opening of the exhibition “Mother & Child” by A Kassen begins at 5 pm at Kling & Bang. A Kassen is the Copenhagen-based artistic collective, offering a conceptual approach ranging from site-specific and performance-based installations, photography and sculpture.
SEPT 20 LÓKAL PERFORMING ARTS Through the years Janus Bragi Jakobsson has collected real life moments with video storytelling and collaborating with Loji Höskuldsson, and a few videos on so called Snitsel-nights are incorporated. We’re wondering if this a Nordic version of Seinfeld-like moments, if so we’re here for it!
SEPT 19–22 CRAZY CULTURE Crazy Culture is an energetic festival filled with creation of an eclectic group of local artists. Taking over Hverfisgata, all the way towards the harbor, the festival is filled with music, dance, visual art, stand-up and crazy cultural fun. We’re not missing out on this one!
SEPT 25 OPEN MIC NIGHT AT THE SECRET CELLAR If your intention is to grab attention with your wicked humor, there’s no time like the present and location like The Secret Cellar in Reykjavik. This event is all about pushing the boundaries and trusting your own storytelling and humor. All sets must be in English.
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SEPT 29 RE-DESIGNS CLOTHING 66°NORTH 66°NORÐUR (66°NORTH) collaborated with Berg Gudnason to refresh, recycle, and refurbish designs, resulting in hip and lively patterns and colors. This limited collection can be viewed online and will be sold in the Flagship store on this day, starting at 5:00 PM. This is a highly anticipated events by locals and fans.
OCT 1 FAR FEST AFRÍKA REYKJAVÍK Held every year for the past 10 years in October in Reykjavík, celebrating African Music, Dance and Culture to the Icelandic people. FAR offers African-Icelanders a platform to enjoy and marry their culture with Nordic collaborations. Born to inspire music and dance education through grade schools and senior citizens.
OCT 2 A MASTERCLASS WITH CLAIRE DENIS AT NORDIC HOUSE An honorary guest at RIFF is the acclaimed French auteur director Claire Denis. Her films engage issues of immigration and ostracism, the ravages of colonialism, and the mysteries of love in a profound manner. Expect to be deeply inspired by the recipient of the Creative Excellence Award and one of today’s greatest filmmakers. The event is moderated by the Icelandic author Auður Ava Ólafsdóttir.
OCT 3 HAPPILY NEVER AFTER – BIO PARADIS A brand new and anticipated Icelandic TV series about co-parenting. We get to know Karen, a 38-year-old mother and couples therapist, when her life takes a quick turn for the worse due to her husband’s infidelity. She finds herself single and anxiously dealing with all that comes with sharing custody of her three children. The series are screened
in collaboration with RÚV, showcasing two episodes at RIFF. Written, directed and produced by Nanna Kristín Magnúsdóttir.
SEPT 26-OCT 6 REYKJAVIK INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL Reykjavik International Film Festival (RIFF) celebrates a rich variety of films from around the globe for eleven days straight where locals and visitors alike can enjoy epic and original film making. Attendants are also encouraged to meet directors and hear about the work via panels and workshops. Visit RIFF’s website to see what kinds of events and films are on!
OCT 4 SOFAR SOUNDS REYKJAVIK SHOW #35 Excited to be back after the summer break sharing a freshly curated evening with you. Sofar is an artistically healthy community dedicated to connecting with more than 200,000 artists at different times in their careers. Feel free to share a few words on who you are and why’re you’re interested in this life event as you RSVP – they like that kinda thing.
OCT 5 ART WITHOUT BORDERS FESTIVAL OPENING Enhancing cultural equality and diversity by creating a professional platform and opportunities for disabled artists. Highly appreciated by the locals this festival collaborates with visual artists, theatre groups and musicians encouraging disabled artists to blend into the art scene and be accepted as “working artists” vs “disabled artists.”
OCT 7 THE CRAFT OF DUMPLINGS AT SALT ELDHÚS Wouldn’t you love to learn how to whisk up savory dumplings in a jiffy? Master the craft of dumpling making with Kunsang Tsering, owner of the locally adored ramen eatery in the Harbor District. You’ll learn how to make Japaneese gyoza, Korean mandu, Chinese dumplings, Tibetan momo, and some kimchi on the side. A time not lost but gained – everyone loves dumplings! From 5 – 8:30 pm.
OCT 11 REYKJAVIK KABARETT AT THE NATIONAL THEATRE CELLAR A mix of burlesque and vaudeville, each member of the Reykjavík Kabarett brings different things to the table. This collective cabaret is packed with the ideal mix of burlesque, music and magic – all in order to guarantee you a fabulous evening filled with wicked laughter. Keep in mind that it gets a bit saucy, so if your friends are sensitive to humorous sexuality, this might not be their entertainment.
OCT 12 HAPPY HOUR WITH UKULELE AT HARD ROCK CAFE Ukulellurnar, or Ukulele, are celebrating their one year anniversary with a happy hour at Hard Rock Cafe. This wonderful band was born from a group of women all singing in a gay choir who wanted to enrich their musical experiences. All heartfelt and positive vibes for anyone and everyone. Tickets are only ISK 1500 and will be sold at the door.
OCT 13 TEDXREYKJAVÍK TIME OF CHANGE TEDxReykjavík is celebrating their 10th Anniversary this autumn with an impressive lineup of speakers. The theme of this soulful event is
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Times of Change – Celebrating X Years of Ideas. The speakers are given a wide range of subjects, including mental health, environmental issues, language and important social issues in Iceland and around the world. There will be coffee and refreshments during the event, and Reykjavík’s most gourmet food trucks will be waiting on-site cooking up delicious lunches for everyone. This will be a memorable one!
OCT 15-20 NORDIC COUNCIL FILM PRIZE 2019 Expect nothing less than to be wowed and artistically moved as you view the five Nordic films one by one. These coveted five feature length films have been selected and nominated for the Nordic Council Film Prize 2019. And will be featured in Bíó Paradís October 15th through 20th during special viewings collaborated with Nordisk Film og TV Fond.
OCT 18 CONCERT OF THE CENTURY AT HASKOLABIO The concert of the century is packed with musicians and bands that were at their peak around the millennium. Most are still working musicians today and are coming together to celebrate each other and their loyal audience. The first half of the function will cover ballads and the second half is left for going bananas with beloved dance hits. Affordable ticket price at ISK 3990.
OCT 23 FORGET-ME-NOT: POEMS AND SONGS BY WOMEN AT KJARVALSSTADIR In a nostalgic setting at Kjarvalstadir, students from the Department of Music perform music that revolves around love and beauty, vocally. A cozy and sincere concert that is part of the series Gleymmér-ei meaning Forget-Me-Not.
OCT 25-26 HIST OG – RELEASE PARTY
NOV 6-9 ICELAND AIRWAVES 2019
A mix of introverted and slow-heaving electronica, improvised music and twitchy new age might just be what the doctor ordered. Hist Og was founded in 2017 to compose and perform new music for Sigur Rós’ Norður og Niður festival. Their unique backgrounds are collectively transformed via sensational sounds on their first album, released last month by Reykjavík Record Shop.
Iceland Airwaves is the world’s most northerly music showcase and industry festival, situated halfway between North America and Europe. Every year Reykjavík comes alive with music and for four nights in November; music fills every corner of the city and large internationally renowned acts share a stage with up and coming talent from all over the world. For more information including lineup, travel packages and tickets go to www.icelandairwaves.is
OCT 31 POWER TOOLS PUMPKIN CARVING Halloween has influenced retailers and kids to make it their own scary-Ice-fest. It most definitely has something to do with candy and carving pumpkins. If you’re in on the idea join us for magical power tool carving over drinks and candy, with a side of a horror movie.
OCT MONDAY NIGHTS THE MAGIC VIKING AT SECRET CELLAR Monday nights in October don’t have to be mundane, infuse yours with comedy, music and magic. Bjarni the Magic Viking comedy veteran in Iceland has a way of naturally mixing together stand-up with his own music. We think it’s a must-see and you might learn a thing or two about yourself and Iceland. It also doesn’t hurt that this show is both free of charge and in English!
NOV 2-13 RÆTUR / ROOTS ART EXHIBITION Úlfar Örn will be exhibiting figurative works from the year 2019, paintings and silk prints. Úlfar Örn has been working with his figurative imagery for many years, both in drawings and paintings. In is work he not only captures the anatomy of his subjects but places emphasis on movement and the rhythm of movement.
NOV 9 AIRWAVES OFF-VENUE: CHILDREN’S AIRWAVES Concerts, drum beats, disco, face painting, concerts and bubbly moods for the whole family in this dance and concert party of the century. Free event.
NOV 10 POST-ICELAND AIRWAVES CLEAN UP Iceland Airwaves is partnering up with SEEDS Iceland in a joint effort to minimise our impact on the environment. Volunteers from SEEDS Iceland will be helping with picking up litter, sorting and recycling, and everyone is welcome to join. The event will start at 1pm from Hard Rock Café. Look for SEEDS volunteers at the entrance door. Bring warm and waterproof clothes, reusable gloves and bins/containers/ reusable bags to pick up the trash and sort it out.
NOV 12 JAZZ AT SALURINN: MILES OKAZAKI New York based guitarist, Miles Okazaki, has gotten much praise for his 6 CD release of compositions by Thelonious Monk. He is touring solo guitar, playing at venues such as the Berlin Jazz Festival, Sarajevo Jazz Festival and Bimhuis in Amsterdam. 95
NOV 12 GUÐJÓN SAMÚELSSON ARCHITECT
NOV 17 SONGWRITER NIGHTS
NOV 21-23 THE SWAN LAKE
The exhibition Guðjón Samúelsson Architect, curated by Ágústa Kristófersdóttir and Pétur H. Ármannsson, sheds light on Guðjón’s works, as well as the man behind the works, his life and his influences. Guðjón was certainly the most influential architect in the history of Iceland, getting a rare opportunity to shape many of the country’s major towns and buildings, for a nation without any Gothic churches or classical palaces. Free entry.
Guakarinn is now offering songwriters both experienced and new artists the opportunity and venue to get their music heard and share it with other music lovers and musicians once a month! For those that are interested in performing they can contact me (Diljá Sævarsdóttir) via Songwriters In Iceland!
The Swan Lake is one of the most popular ballets and belongs to the international standard repertoire of the classical ballet. In spite of all, this ballet is a brilliant work of a brilliant composer Tchaikovsky Andremains already since centuries a public magnet. The choreographer of the original production was Julius Reisinger. The ballet was premiered by the Bolshoi Ballet on 4 March 1877 at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. Although it is presented in many different versions, most ballet companies base their stagings both choreographically and musically on the 1895 revival of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, first staged for the Imperial Ballet on 15 January 1895, at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg.
NOV 13 100 YEARS OF NURSING EXHIBITION The exhibition covers the history of the nursing profession in Iceland and how it has dealt with gender issues and developments in science and technology. The story begins in Reykjavík at the start of the twentieth century and ends in the present day, but it also considers what the future holds: How will the nursing profession change? What can we learn from history? Why are males still significantly underrepresented in the profession? Today there are around three thousand nurses employed in the profession, working in diverse and often highly specialized roles which change in line with advancements in science and technology.
NOV 15 JÓHANNES S. KJARVAL: CAN’T DRAW A HAREBELL The artist Eggert Pétursson has assembled an exhibition of the floral works of Jóhannes S. Kjarval. Upon taking on this project for Reykjavík Art Museum, Eggert decided to examine the floral factor in Kjarval’s work and approach it from an artistic viewpoint. Kjarval does not limit himself to botany but paints and sketches flowers around him. Eggert resolved to categorise the works by their elements and figurative connection and display them as he would his own work.
NOV 18 PRISON – ARTIST TALK A full-sized cell has been built in the museum in the same dimensions as the cells at The Hólmsheiði Prison. At the exhibition, the artists raise questions about surveillance, imprisonment and life inside – as well as outside – the walls of the prison. Inside the prison, the prisoners are obviously under constant surveillance, even if they also live outside the allencompassing surveillance system of modern society, which most people take part in, more or less of their own free will. The world of the prisoner is thus clearly defined, being separated from our world, while other borders and boundaries are gradually fading away, in the evershrinking, ever-connected world of social media and smartphones. Free entry.
NOV 20 PARTY KARAOKE The karaoke sisters DJ Dóra Júlía & Helga Margrét are the host of party karaoke in the Basement. They combine they’re love of music, fun and joy of live in a night of fabulous entertainment that starts at 21.00. Everybody is welcome and all that brave the stage get a fun prize.
NOV 21-25 CRAFTS AND DESIGN The annual CRAFTS & DESIGN fair will be held in Reykjavík City Hall. The variety of artists and arts will be the first thing you see, as there are more than 55 artists that will be there this year.
NOV 24 LOT´S OF TINY PEOPLE The exhibition “Lot´s of tiny people” explores the spiritual in arts. The title is derived from a blackboard drawing by Austrian anthroposophist Rudolf Steiner, who used to draw images to support his spoken words, while lecturing on man´s nature and spirit. The exhibition includes visual arts, graphic design, dance, music or academic research and a program of lectures, courses and discussions.
NOV 28 THE REYKJAVÍK BEER TOUR Icelandic beer, local beer history, the best bars in Reykjavik, micro breweries and exploring our beautiful Reykjavik with a fun and knowledgable local guide: If you are interested in any of the above, you are in luck because this tour is for you. A few highlights include a visit to four of the most interesting beer venues in Reykjavik, tasting over 10 amazing Icelandic beers, and exploring Reykjavik with a knowledgable local beer expert.
HILDUR YEOMAN FO R THE UNEXPECT ED
10 % O F F YO U R F I R S T ORDER WITH CODE SCANDI
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ARCHITECTURE OF ICELAND A glimpse into some of our favourite places
Until the late nineteenth century, Scandinavia was considered an architectural lightweight, as its castles, cathedrals, and other major buildings were usually built in historical styles borrowed from abroad. Most other buildings were vernacular wooden, stone, and brick structures constructed by those without formal architectural training. Although unheralded, they offered practical solutions to problems specific to the far north, including maximizing natural light and heat during cold winter days. Scandinavia’s architectural standing began to change in the early twentieth century as architects rejected historicism and instead blended new international styles and technological advances with elements from the vernacular traditions.
This set the stage for what became the defining traits of Scandi buildings: designs that are functional, attractive in a minimalist way, and in balance with nature. At the same time, architects played a role in the emergence of the region’s social welfare model, which required quality housing for all and public buildings for the common good. Icelandic architecture draws heavily on the island’s breathtaking natural landscapes. The country, which only became fully independent from Denmark in 1944, did not have its own native-born trained architects until the twentieth century.
REYKJAVIK CITY HALL, 1992 BY STUDIO GRANDA Of more recent vintage, the Harpa concert and conference hall of 2011, with its colored glass and metal frame exterior inspired by the crystalline texture of basalt formations, was a collaboration between Henning Larsen Architects of Copenhagen and Danish-Icelandic artist Ólafur Elíasson. Such Scandinavian architectural cross-fertilizations are common, other examples include a pedestrian bridge in Bergen, Norway by Studio Granda and a Norwegian engineering firm that opened last year.
The first one of note, who is credited with single-handedly defining a national style, was state architect Guðjón Samúelsson. Both his National Theater, completed 1950 though designed in the 1920s, and Hallgrímskirkja, the country’s largest church constructed in phases from the 1930s through 1980s, were built in concrete but mimic the basalt lava rock cliff columns that are a national treasure. Modern notable buildings include Reykjavik City Hall (1992) and the Supreme Court (1996), both by married team Margrét Harðardóttir and Steve Christer of Studio Granda, which feature an assortment of facade materials including basalt.
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SECRET HOT SPRINGS IN ICELAND Discover these secret springs from the land of fire and ice
MÝVATN NATURE BATHS Want to know where are the best and most secret hot springs in Iceland? Hot baths! Hot springs! Mineral pools! Iceland has them all. Known as the land of fire and ice, Iceland is, in geological terms, a young country. It also lies on the divergent boundary between two tectonic plates – the Eurasian and the North American – directly above a hot spot known as the Iceland plume. Seismic activity at this boundary around 16 to 18 million years ago is believed to have caused the creation of Iceland’s land mass, which is characterised by numerous volcanoes and hot springs. These springs are dotted throughout the landscape, so whether you are exploring the coast or venturing inland towards the highlands, you will never be far from a relaxing, hot soak. Some of these springs we’ve listed are in remote locations and therefore have WG54 coordinates rather than addresses. To locate these on a map just put them into Google Maps or similar digital mapping service.
REYKJADALUR
Hot stream running through the lush It lies on the lower slopes of Dalfjall, green Reykjadalur, which means home to Iceland’s first geothermal power station. The distinctive blue hue is due “ steamy valley.” As you walk upstream, the water gets hotter and you can soak to sulphur, so remove any copper or silver in the numerous pools people have jewellery before bathing as it can cause created with small rock dams. At the discolouration. The milky-blue water point where the path crosses the stream comes from up to 25m underground, there are some vivid turquoise pools, at a very comfortable 38–40 degrees but these are too hot for bathing. Celsius. There are numerous claims A truly other-worldly experience. about the health benefits of the water, but regardless of whether these have COORDINATES: 64.032083, any credence, it is the perfect spot to -21.215594 soak legs tired from hiking. Saunas are Turn off the R1 at Hverager∂i and follow available and there is a great café. the Brei∂amörk road until the car park at the end. Park here and follow the obvious JARDBADSHOLAR path for approx 3km to Reykjadalur. 660 Mývatn +354 464 4411
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GAMLA LAUGIN Built in 1891, this is a large pool that once served as the local baths and where local women would wash clothes. Filled from a geothermal spring it has a perfect temperature of 38–40 degrees Celsius. Between 1909–1947 regular swimming lessons were held here until a new pool was built close by in Flúðir. Retaining a natural feel, it even has a small geyser that erupts every five minutes. Modern but discreet changing rooms with showers and an eating area have been added. Its English name is the “Secret Lagoon”. Located 0.5 km from the village of Flú∂ir. SECRET LAGOON Hvammsvegur 845 Flú∂ir +354 861 0237
SELJAVELLIR
HELLULAUG
Nestled in a narrow valley in the shadow of the infamous Eyjafjallajökull volcano, this is the oldest swimming pool in Iceland. Set into the side of a mountain, it is fed by both hot water seeping from the rock face and a pipe from a nearby spring. It is 25m by 10m, has a very basic changing room and is run by volunteers. There is no charge. Swim lengths or just soak and enjoy the rugged landscape.
A natural hot tub hidden among the rocks on the foreshore about 500m from Hótel Flókalundur. At high tide you can cool off by jumping into the sea. To the west of Hellulaug below the ruined farm of Hella is another pool built from turf that has been recently restored. The water temperature is around 38°C with great sea views.
COORDINATES: 63.559243, -19.622395 Turn off the R1 onto the R242 signposted Raufarfell. Keep driving until the end of the road for parking. Ignore the sign for Seljavellir. From the parking area walk a path towards the bottom of the valley and the pool will come into view.
COORDINATES: 65.57256, -23.17208 Approx 2km SW of the village of Flókalundur, just off the R62, on the shore on the opposite side of the river to the settlement.
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FINL LAND OF THE MIDNIGHT SUN
AND
Finland
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW All the essential information for your trip to Finland
PASSPORT VALIDITY Recommend at least six months beyond your period of stay BLANK PASSPORT PAGES Two pages per stamp TOURIST VISA REQUIRED Not required VACCINATIONS None CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT 10,000 Euros (or equivalent)
LANGUAGE
WEATHER
There are three official languages in Finland. Finnish and Swedish are both official languages in Finland. The third language in Finland is Sami, spoken in Lapland by less than 0.5% of the population. But don’t worry, people in Finland speak English very well, so you won’t have a language problem in Finland.
39-48°F in October with an average of a 32% chance of precipitation.
CURRENCY In Finland, the currency is the Euro, which comes in several bills from 500 Euros to 5 Euros. Then there are the Euro coins, which come in 2 and 1 Euro, plus 50 cents, 20 cents, 10 cents and 5 cents. In Finland, they don’t use the two-cent or one-cent Euro pieces, so if your bill is 98-cents, it will just be rounded up to one Euro. You can also use your credit card all over Finland, just make sure you have a PIN as some machines require you to enter a PIN. You can even pay with your phone at some places in Finland.
ELECTRICAL OUTLETS Electrical outlets are the same as the rest of Europe, with two round plugs. You just need an adapter for your U.S. electronics.
TRANSPORTATION Public transportation in Finland is great. Trains and buses go all over the country. In the cities, public transport is also easy to use, and covers most areas of the cities. You can also use ferries in Finland to get to some of the island areas. Trains and buses make for easy day trips all over Finland. You can also buy day passes for transportation, so that you can easily hop on or hop off the trams and trains all day.
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TRANSPORTATION GUIDE How to use public transportation in Helsinki
METRO Helsinki has a well working public transport system (HSL) consisting of bus, tram, metro, local railway and ferry services. With a single ticket you can hop aboard trams, buses, the metro and even the ferry to Suomenlinna. Single tickets can be purchased from ticket machines, R-kiosks and other HSL sales points or by using HSL mobile application. On buses you can also buy your ticket from the driver. Daytickets are available for unlimited use on public transportation for 1-7 days. They can be purchased from ticket machines, from the Tourist Information at Helsinki Airport Terminal 2A (1-3 days) or from the Helsinki City Transport service point in the Central Railway Station. One day ticket is also sold by the drivers. Helsinki’s secret is that you can get everywhere even without a car. Public transport is a road to paradise. You can find heaven at the end of many bus routes. Pack with a picnic, ride to the last stop and start exploring.
The metro line in stretches from Vuosaari and Mellunmäki in east-Helsinki, via Helsinki city centre to Matinkylä in Espoo. The travel time from Matinkylä to Mellunmäki, (the world’s northernmost metro station) or Vuosaari in Helsinki is approximately 39 min. Metro is a great way to get from the city centre out into the nature: From the Kulosaari metro station you can get to Kivinokka and Mustikkamaa. From the Vuosaari metro station you can get to the Uutela recreational area. From the Herttoniemi metro station you can get to the Viikki nature reserve. From the Rastila metro station you can get to Kallahdenniemi. Metro tickets can be purchased from ticket machines at the metro stations, before you go down the escalators. Public transport day tickets are also valid at the metro.
TRAIN Commuter trains are a convenient way to get to Pasila, for example, where Hartwall Arena and the Messukeskus Expo and Convention Centre are located. You can also get to the tranquillity of Rhododendron Park (Alppiruusupuisto) in Haaga very quickly by commuter train
(A, E, U or P). You can purchase a single ticket from a ticket machine. You can also purchase day tickets valid for 1 to 7 days on all forms of public transport within Helsinki Region. Tickets can be purchased from Helsinki Region Tourist Information inside Helsinki Airport, as well as from R-Kiosks and many other sales outlets throughout the city. Tickets cannot be purchased on commuter trains. Commuter trains and other public transport are included in the price of the Helsinki Card.
BUS Helsinki Region Transport (HRT) operates buses throughout the region. Internal and regional bus lines and timetables in the Helsinki metropolitan area are available in the HSL Journey Planner. Buses from Espoo arrive at Kamppi bus terminal. For airport buses, the Finnair City Bus operates between Helsinki Airport (Terminal 1 platform 11, Terminal 2 platform 10) and the Central Railway Station at the city centre (Elielinaukio, platform 30) every 20 minutes and takes around 30 minutes. A single ticket from the driver costs 6.70 EURO. Both cash and credit cards are accepted. Bus 615 (“Lentoasema-Rautatientori”) runs between the airport and the Central
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Railway Station. The trip takes around 45 minutes. A regional ticket can be purchased from a ticket machine (5 EURO) or from the driver with cash (5.50 EURO). The Bus 415N operates at night.
FERRY The municipal ferry operates between the Market Square and the Suomenlinna Sea Fortress all year round. A special Suomenlinna ticket is valid for 12 hours and costs 5 EURO. Tickets can be purchased from a ticket machine at the Market Square. Public transportation tickets as well as the Helsinki cards are valid on the ferry. JT line ferries operate during summer season from the Market Square to Lonna, Vallisaari and Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, and from Merisatama and Ruoholahti to Pihlajasaari. Further information on tickets and schedules can be found at JT Line’s website. A ferry to Isosaari operates between the Market Square and the island both during winter and summer.
BIKE
CAR
A popular bicycle route is “Baana” in the center of Helsinki, built along a stretch of disused railway line, it is a pedestrian and cycling corridor that is equally popular among commuters on bike, dog owners on foot and young people on skateboards. Baana forms part of a 1200-kilometre network of bike paths in Helsinki that makes it easy to access all parts of the city on two wheels, from the Keskuspuisto “Central Park” to the north to the ferry harbours to the south, and from the bustling city centre to the quiet fields and forests in the surrounding countryside – even to the islands of the archipelago. You can either rent a bike or use city bikes, shared-use bicycles that can be borrowed for a fee by anyone in central Helsinki, residents and visitors alike. City bikes are shareduse bicycles that can be borrowed for a fee by anyone in Helsinki and Espoo, residents and visitors alike.
If you arrive in Helsinki by car, you can avoid Helsinki traffic jam by utilizing HSL’s “park and ride” -parking lots. “Park and ride” -parking lots are located at public transport stations and stops, and from there you can continue the journey by bus, subway, tram or local train. In the center of Helsinki parking fee supply and charges depend on the parking zones. The parking spaces and rules are on a map. Parking is free on Saturdays in Zone 3, and on Sundays and Holidays in all zones, with some exceptions. A map of parking places for disabled shows where the parking places are located, and more information on parking permits for persons with disabilities can be found on Trafi’s website. In the metropolitan area, DriveNow car pool service can be used, through which members of the service can order a car, drive to their destination and return the car there.
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THIS FALL IN HELSINKI
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SEPT 5-15 HELSINKI DESIGN WEEK Having been the world design capital in 2012, Helsinki is a major player in international design. As such, you would expect a yearly design week! This year you can enjoy exhibitions, conferences, workshops, shopping, and more centered around the theme “learning climate”. Almost 200 independent events fill the programme, and admission prices vary. Many events are free.
SEPT 6 SOME LIKE IT HOT AT PUOTILAN KARTANO Experience the classic Marilyn Monroe film in its original 35mm format at the lovely 18th century event space Puotilan Kartano. The pub on the premises will serve you drinks, and you can either bring a blanket to lounge on or come early and grab a seat. Film starts at 21.00.
SEPT 7-8 DESIGN MARKET – HELSINKI DESIGN WEEK Helsinki Design Week shows up at Kaapelitehdas in the form of a market. There will be areas specialised in prints, vinyl records, and children’s products. The market will reflect the theme of Helsinki Design Week 2019, which is “learning climate”. Over 200 vendors will be in attendance.
SEPT 7-8 PUKKISAARI IRON AGE MARKET Fans of historical re-enactments will love this event on Pukkisaari, an island southeast of mainland Helsinki. Visitors can watch battle re-enactments, buy artisan crafts, and eat delicious foods. You can also sign up to participate yourself if you have something to offer!
SEPT 7-8 SEPTEMBER’S VEGAN BRUNCHES AT KLAUS K HOTEL Klaus K is a gorgeous Art Nouveau hotel on the ritzy Bulevardi, and it regularly offers brunches. On the 7th and 8th of September the brunch is vegan. The cost is 35 EURO, and table reservations are recommended.
SEPT 7 TOUGH VIKING HELSINKI Tough Viking is the Nordics’ biggest obstance course race. Its 10km course comes to Helsinki on 7th September, presenting a challenge to anyone who’s brave enough to give it a shot. Register by 05.07 for 90 EURO.
SEPT 11-15 HABITARE Habitare is Finland’s biggest interior design event, and it brings new perspectives to the world of furniture and decor every year. 2019’s theme is “Mindspaces”: an exploration of how materials, colours, textures, and other chosen aspects of a design affect our state of mind. Adult tickets are 16-17 EURO.
SEPT 12 DATA-DRIVEN DESIGN DAY As part of Helsinki Design Week, this event will educate audiences about the use of data in design. This year’s theme is “Augmented Creativity”. Both Finnish and international speakers will be present to share their knowledge and experiences. Tickets are 99 EURO.
SEPT 14 RAPHA WOMEN’S 100 HELSINKI: POWERED BY CANYON Gym and sports equipment shop Triathalon Corner is hosting an event
for women who love to cycle. The goal is to cycle 100 km in one day through the cooperation of female athletes around the world.
SEPT 15 HELSINKI PUPPY PARADE SEPTEMBER Helsinki’s cutest parade is taking place for the ninth time this September! Dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds are welcome to take part in the parade. Gather in Meripuisto (right next to the famous Kaivopuisto) to see the dogs walk the route, then stick around afterwards to hang out with them and their owners! Free event.
SEPT 19-20 DARE TO LEARN If you’re a teacher, professor, or other professional in pedagogy, Dare to Learn is a place you should be. The programme consists of 40% keynote speeches and 60% active co-creation, giving visitors the opportunity to participate in shaping the future of learning. One-day public sector tickets are 115 EURO, two-day tickets are 150 EURO.
SEPT 21 OTANIEMI NIGHT OF ARTS Aalto University is celebrating its Student Union’s tenth anniversary, and its first big event is Otaniemi Night of Arts. There will be many art and music events organised by the Aalto community, as well as visitors such as singer Mira Luoti and Puppet Theatre Sampo. Free event.
SEPT 26 LINOCUT BEGINNERS WORKSHOP “Craft gym” Verstas247 hosts several workshops and classes, including this introduction to linocut printing. The theme of this 3-hour workshop is plants and botanicals. For 35 EURO you can go home with several postcard prints from blocks. 109
SEPT 27-28 JUURI NYT URBAN FOLK FESTIVAL
OCT 5 YET VOL. 3
OCT 12-13 RETRO & VINTAGE DESIGN EXPO
Anyone interested in northern European folk music should make sure to catch some concerts at this festival! The concerts take place in Kapsäkki theatre and Bistro K restaurant, located in the artsy Sörnäinen neighbourhood. Brunch concerts are free, a day ticket (for other concerts) is 35 EURO, a two-day ticket is 55 EURO.
On October’s first weekend, head to Ääniwalli to hear music from a nine-strong lineup of performers. There will be a wild mix of power pop, psychedic rock, garage rock, and punk. The night will be rounded out by seven DJs spinning into the night. Tickets are between 22.50 and 25 EURO.
Finnish, Swedish, Estonian, and Danish retro goods from the 1920s-1980s are on display by over 80 vendors in this expo. Lovers of vintage and retro can pick up home decor, ceramics, glassware, clothing, accessories, textiles, paper goods, LPs, and more. Adult tickets are 10 EURO, and those under 18 are free!
OCT 5 KÄSITYÖTARVIKEKIRPPIS (HANDICRAFT MATERIALS FLEA MARKET)
OCT 13 PAKANALLISET SYYSMESSUT (PAGAN AUTUMN FESTIVAL)
SEPT 28-29 VEGEMESSUT Vegemessut are the biggest vegan food festival in the Nordics. This is their second event in Helsinki this year, and it’s once again taking place in Kaapelitehdas (Cable Factory). Vegemessut aim to make vegan eating easily approachable to everyone. Tickets are 10 EURO (pre-bought) or 12 EURO (at door).
OCT 2-5 FIERCE This contemporary circus performance explores two character’s search for each other after a missed connection. The story is told through acrobatics and dance, which are complemented by dreamlike sound and video art. The performance is at Caisa, one of the city of Helsinki’s cultural centers. Tickets are 10 EURO.
OCT 4-6 SUPERWOOD FESTIVAL Finnish fashion designer Ivana Helsinki is the creative force behind the annual Superwood Festival. The urban music and art festival has a lineup of 30+ musicians, art installations, vegetarian food, and 20 minute talks by researchers. Tickets range from 32-82 EURO.
Crafters can buy inexpensive new supplies at this flea market in Helsinki’s Kumpula neighbourhood. If you’re a crafter with an overflowing supply drawer, you can sign up to sell your own as well for a fee of 10 EURO. There will also be a cafe at the event.
OCT 6 KATTILAHALLIN KIRPPIS (KATTIHALLI FLEA MARKET) Kattilahalli Flea Market is the largest communal flea market in Helsinki, bringing together 140 sellers this time around. You can find clothing, housewares, toys, and possibly some unexpected treasures. This time there will be an extra reason to drop by: Ali-Ollin Alpakktila is bringing by some real live alpacas! Free event.
OCT 10 VALOKARNEVAALI LINNANMÄESSÄ (LIGHT CARNIVAL AT LINNANMÄKI) As the nights start to get longer and darker, amusement park Linnanmäki lights up brighter than ever. Rides, boardwalk attractions, and much more in the park will be decked out in lights of many colours. Entrance to the park is free, ride tickets are purchased separately.
The theme for this festival is “inhabitants of the Finnish forest”, including those which originate from fantasy and mythology. In addition to exhibitors selling their art, jewellery, and other mystical objects, the festival offers workshops, lectures, and walk-in Pagan themed tattoos. Tickets are 7 EURO if bought early, or 10 EURO at the door.
OCT 15-27 GALLERIA NO. 8 GOES LAUTTASAARI Galleria No. 8 on Lauttasaari (a large island within Helsinki’s archipelago) is home to a two-week long group show by seven female artists. The types of work within the show range from paintings and photographs to textiles and ceramics. Free event.
OCT 17 HOMES FOR ALL TORCH LIGHT WALK The Association for Social Justice in Helsinki believes that everyone has the right to a roof over their heads. Join them for a peaceful march through northeastern Helsinki to help them spread this message! They will provide torches and placards.
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OCT 18 MIRA LUOTI LIVE Finnish pop artist Mira Luoti will take over legendary music club Tavastia to promote her upcoming album. Be one of the first to hear her new music ahead of the album’s autumn release! Tickets are 18 EURO online, or 20 EURO at the door.
OCT 23-27 CINEMAISSI FILM FESTIVAL Cinemaissi Film Festival is returning to Helsinki after two years, bringing with it a selection of films from all over Latin America. Themes represented include women on screen, LGBTQ+ rights, Indigenous cultures, and social rights. Tickets to individual screenings are 9.50 EURO.
OCT 24-27 HELSINGIN KIRJAMESSUT (HELSINKI BOOK FAIR) This fair fills Helsinki’s largest convention venue with lovers of literature, authors, and many other industry professionals. There are more than 1000 total speakers and 300 booksellers and publishers at the event! 2019’s fair themes are freedom of speech, songwriting, and American literature and culture. Adult tickets are 16-17 EURO.
OCT 26 HELSINKI HALLOWEEN RUN Even when you’re dressed like a skeleton, a witch, a fairy, or some other fantastical thing, you might want to run! If you find yourself in that situation close to Halloween, you can take part in Helsinki’s annual Halloween run. The event has both 5km and 10km trails.
OCT 26-27 LAKRITSI- & SALMIAKKIFESTIVAALIT (LIQUORICE & SALMIAC FESTIVAL) Finland is famous (or notorious?) for salmiakki, a salty liquorice candy. Some love it, some hate it, but it’s ubiquitous in sweets around the country. If you’re one of the lovers, head to Wanha Satama for sweet and salty festival. Tickets 11 EURO if purchased early, or 14 EURO at the door.
OCT 30 TANGERINE DREAM + HIRO KONE Trailblazing electronic music giants Tangerine Dream are making at stop at Helsinki’s The Circus club. The show is a part of their “16 Steps – Random & Revision 2019” tour. Tangerine Dream have made an indelible mark on the electronic music scene over their 50-year career. The band is supported by NYC musician Hiro Kone. Tickets are 45.50 EURO.
NOV 6 NAISTEN HEMMOTTELUPÄIVÄT YRJÖNKADUN UIMAHALLISSA (WOMEN’S PAMPERING DAYS AT YRJÖNKATU SWIMMING HALL) One of Helsinki’s central swimming halls is hosting pampering days for ladies with an array of available services. In addition to the swimming itself, you can also get spa treatments such as Indian head massages and facials. Light spa treatments are 7 EURO each, entrance to swimming hall is 5.50 EURO.
NOV 7 COLLABORATIVE FEMINIST MANIFESTO WORKSHOP Aalto University’s group Aalto Student Intersectional Feminists (ASIF) wants the public’s help to craft a document outlining the beliefs and ideas of intersectional feminists. To participate, register by emailing the organiser at asif.aalto@gmail.com.
NOV 2-3 ANGAMARDANA IN HELSINKI
NOV 8 NEW AGE: FRANK FRANK FRANK & ELIA
Yoga school Shanti brings angamardana, a fitness system designed to help the whole body, to Helsinki. Angamardana can benefit your strength, aerobic ability, and stamina with no need for any exercise equipment. The two-day class is 195 EURO.
Cultural centre Korjaamo opens its doors this day to fans of pop and violin music. Swedish and Finnish trio Frank Frank Frank play powerful pop, and Elia (Elias Riipinen) combines classical and electronic genres with their music. Tickets start at 12 EURO.
NOV 3 TALVIVAATEVAIHTAJAISET AIKUISILLE (WINTER CLOTHING SWAP FOR ADULTS)
NOV 9 OYSTER FESTIVAL
Cultural organisation Kallion Kulttuuriverkosto regularly organises swap meets such as this one. Bring some of your old winter clothing which is still in good condition and exchange it for new (to you!) clothing. Any leftover clothing will be donated to assist the homeless and impoverished.
Find out who Finland’s fastest oyster shucker is at the Holiday Bar! The winner will be crowned Finnish Champion 2019. Restaurant teams will also compete against each other. Everyone in attendance can practice their oyster shucking with 1 oysters and other menu items.
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NOV 9-10 KORJAAMO DESIGN MARKET Cultural centre Korjaamo will be filled with over 50 vendors selling sustainable Finnish design products. You can find jewellery and accessories, cosmetics, home goods, and other beautiful objects. Free entry.
NOV 13 MARISKA Finnish rapper Mariska shows that she’s still got what it takes with her longawaited new album, released 18.10. Her Finnish tour to promote the new album is making its first Helsinki area stop in Sellosali, located just outside of the city in Espoo. Tickets are 17.50 EURO online or 19.50 EURO at the door.
NOV 15 KALLIOLAND Kalliolan setlementtitalo (Kalliola Settlement House) has stood in the same spot for 100 years, and this November it is celebrating by giving positive vibes back to the community. Kallioland is filled with empowering workshops, lectures, and music. The event is a safe space and is free for everyone.
NOV 21-22 SLUSH Right as the autumn rain is turning into actual slush, Helsinki once again hosts the huge start-up event with the same name. Slush 2019 will fill Messukeskus (fair centre) with 4,000 startups, 2,000 investors, and 700 journalists to meet up and listen to expert talks. Tickets start at 395 EURO for startups.
NOV 22-24 NUORTEN CHOPIN 2018 (YOUNG CHOPIN 2019) The Chopin Society of Finland and the Helsinki Conservatory are bringing a taste
of classical music to the city. The concerts, performed on Friday and Saturday, will be played by gifted young musicians under age 20 from Finnish schools of music.
NOV 23-24 XMAS DESIGN MARKET WEEGEE Just outside of Helsinki in Espoo’s Tapiola neighbourhood is WeeGee Exhibition Centre. At the end of November they’re hosting a holiday marketplace with 50 design companies and festive workshops. Entrance to WeeGee’s museums will be free all weekend.
NOV 24 LUKEMATTOMIEN KIRJOJEN TORI (MARKET OF UNREAD BOOKS) After enjoying Kallioland earlier in November, head to Kalliolan setlementtitalo for this book fair. You can bring up to five fiction books and exchange them for the same amount of new reading material!
ONGOING IN NOVEMBER MAAILMALTA LÖYSIN ITSENI (I FOUND MYSELF AROUND THE WORLD) This exhibition is a collection of the work of Helene Schjerfbeck, one of Finland’s most successful artists. The exhibition focuses on Schjerfbeck’s travels around Europe and the inspiration she found during those travels. The 130+ works include landscapes, still lifes, and portraits, including 16 self portraits. On until 26th January 2020.
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FIVE FUN DAY TRIPS IN HELSINKI Check out our five favourite day trips from the capital
From medieval castles to Moomins, and saunas to Santa, Finland is an unexpected country with plenty to discover. And its small size and inexpensive public transport make it easy to explore too – especially if you base yourself in Helsinki. Check out our five favourite day trips from the capital.
PORVOO
TURKU/ÅBO
This charming city of iconic red wooden houses is definitely worth a visit for its meandering old town with narrow lanes and quaint shops. A hike up Iso Linnamäki (Castle Hill), where a medieval Swedish castle once stood, is like walking back into ancient times. The views are spectacular and the forest is otherworldly. Later, meander back down the hill and across the Porvoonjoki River to get the best views of the shore houses, which were originally painted red in the late 1700s to celebrate a visit from Gustav III, the King of Sweden. You can take the bus from Helsinki’s Kamppi Station or take a steamboat from Helsinki’s central harbour.
Start your exploration with the medieval Turku Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in Finland. Then head to one of the excellent restaurants along the charming River Aura for lunch. Continue along the cobblestone canal path for a lovely walk (or catch bus #1) to the medieval Turku Castle. Make sure you save time for one of the most unique museums in Finland, the Aboa Vetus (Old Turku), which combines contemporary art with the remains of six medieval buildings. The bus from Kamppi Station, takes two hours 20 minutes or enjoy the river path by renting a bicycle.
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TAMPERE
ROVANIEMI, LAPLAND
TALLINN, ESTONIA
Tampere is the self-proclaimed sauna capital of the world. There’s a public sauna for everyone here, from lakefront saunas to contemporary ones. Rajaportin, the oldest, is a still-in-use public sauna in Finland (bring your own towel). Tampere is also known for the astonishing symbolist murals by Hugo Simberg in its cathedral, and the Moomin Museum that displays memorabilia and art from the much-loved children’s books. And don’t leave town without trying the famous munkki (Finnish doughnuts) made at the Pyynikki observation tower. It’s about two hours from Helsinki by train or take the bus in about two and a half hours.
Lapland is all about nature, so your trip will depend on the time of year you go. In winter, you can spend a fortune booking expensive day trips to mush sledge huskies and see reindeer. Or, you can take the public Santa Express bus in Rovaniemi for a few euros and do both things much more cheaply at the Santa Claus Village. Make sure you step over the Arctic Circle while you’re there. Then, spend a night at a lakeside sauna for fantastic views of the northern lights. They’re to be visible from late September to early March, weather permitting. Take a flight with Norwegian Air or book the night train to arrive in the morning.
Estonia’s capital city, Tallinn, is just a short hop across the Bay of Finland and getting there is half the fun. The ferry from Helsinki provides spectacular views of the scenery. A short walk from the ferry terminal takes you to Tallinn’s Old Town, a wellpreserved medieval city. Head to Town Hall Square for lunch at one of the outdoor cafés, then wander up the hill to take in the cathedral and churches. For more great views and history, visit the 15th-century artillery tower museum, Kiek in de Kök. Tallinn is also famous for its Music Week at the end of March. Three ferries run from Helsinki to Tallinn and take about 2–2hr – 30min each way.
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FAVORITE FOOD DELIVERY IN HELSINKI See our suggestions for food delivery using the Wolt app
NEIGHBOURHOOD For pizza that’s a little different, check out Neighbourhood. Their ultra thin crust is more of a crunchy cracker-like base than a typical pizza, and the real focus is on the organic, seasonal toppings.
KIIN KIIN Kiin Kiin is the only Thai restaurant outside of Thailand to have a Michelin star, and their incredible food is something to behold. They’ve put together this special takeout menu; get out the fancy china for this one!
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JAGGER Delicious fast food-style burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, crispy fries, and milkshakes. The food is greasy in just the way you want but not overly so, and available all over the city. Their veggie burger is delicious!
SOULS Souls may be mostly vegan, but their philosophy is that everyone should enjoy their food, regardless of whether they’re vegan or not. They do a mean veggie burger, as well as delicious brunch and drinks.
PASTOR TACOS Tasty tacos made by three Mexican siblings who wanted to bring a real taste of their country to Copenhagen. You can also get burritos and gringas. Expert tip: definitely get the side of refried beans with corn chips!
AMERICAN PIE COMPANY Sometimes you just need a slice of pie. This American-style pie shop serves a rotating menu of seasonal pies, as well as a few mainstays (like apple pie). They taste homebaked and the flavors are fantastic. American Pie Company also serves savory hand pies.
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Special thanks to our professor, without whom none of this would be possible. Thank you Speaker, for believing in us always and pushing us ever closer to greatness.
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