Bergen is the second-largest city in Norway but offers small town charm alongside its metropolitan character. Bergen is the Gateway to the fjords of Norway. As a UNESCO World Heritage City and a European City of Culture, the Bergen region has the ideal combination of nature, culture and exciting urban life all year around. Here is where I board my northern lights cruise at 6PM this evening. Oh, by the way, it rains here on average 238/days year.

Leisurely breakfast with Mike yesterday morning. Then flew from Gdansk to Amsterdam; Amsterdam to Bergen. Upgraded again. I may never be able to go back to coach seating.

I spent last evening at the Clarion Hotel Bergen–got in just before midnight. It is in the heart of Bergen–historical dock area called Bryggen, easy walk to Floibanen funicular railway, St. Mary’s Church and the Torgallmenningen square.

My morning stroll. Of course, it was drizzling during most of my walk, but at least it was not too cold. Some pictures from my walk.

Cruise ship; and we’re off. Well really not quite, we start moving about 8:30PM Bergen time. But I have checked in, gotten to my cabin, unpacked and had dinner. Buffet style this evening because of boarding.

for full disclosure, I have had my first few bumps-in-the-road–getting from Bergen airport to hotel (very late last night) and hotel to cruise ship. Hurtigruten lacks a bit in customer service and easy to navigate documentation–and I heard this from a few others during check-in. I have been in Europe for three weeks and I have not had one issue until Hurtigruten/Bergen. And quite frankly, I don’t even know what to expect tomorrow morning. However, during dinner this evening, I did upgrade to the better wine package. : ) Hey, maybe I will finally just sleep in and have a totally relaxing day. But with a lovely stroll around Bergen this morning and if we see the northern lights, all will be forgotten!

And we are off!!

Congratulations to our Eagles. Go Phillies!