I thought I would finally post an update on the Norway trip. It started out well with a smooth flight from GSP to JFK. The terminal transfer went well and we had a relaxing time in the Air France lounge. The SAS flight overnight was good and we had a great view of a snowy landscape on the way to Oslo. We had a second opportunity to see it as we had a connecting flight back to Bergen. Our arrival was early enough to take the funicular up the mountain for some great views of Bergen and the harbor. We were surprised to find out that our hotel reservation included breakfast and dinner and the food was great. We got checked in early enough the next day to get a window table for our meals on the cruise and the times that we preferred.
This was our first cruise experience and it was an intimate experience as Havila also serves as a coastal ferry and cargo ship. However, the food, service, and attention was top notch. The weather was amazing and the seas were calm the entire time. We wore patches just in case and did not have a problem. The views were stunning. Met some great people from Australia, the UK, Germany, and the US. Everything went well until some of the female passengers began dousing themselves with strong perfume which finally resulted in my allergies causing a sinus infection. The Havila people managed to make a medical appointment for me at one of the shorter port stops on a Sunday, even arranging a taxi. We got in and out quickly enough to make it back to the ship. The medical experience was top notch, inexpensive, and I got the needed antibiotics. I will post part two after we walk the dog...lol.