2024 Svalbard Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in September)

Svalbard: A Solitary Expedition in the Arctic Wilderness

Svalbard, located within the Arctic Circle, is one of the northernmost inhabited places on Earth. This remote and solitary land attracts brave explorers with its endless snowfields and awe-inspiring wildlife. A polar journey here is not only an exploration of nature but also a profound spiritual experience. In this ice-covered wilderness, Svalbard reindeer are common inhabitants, strolling leisurely across the icy plains. In contrast, the Arctic fox is more agile, darting through the snow, using its keen senses to hunt. The most awe-inspiring presence is that of the polar bear, the true ruler of this realm. Encountering these apex predators can be both terrifying and thrilling, as they embody the spirit of the Arctic ecosystem. The vastness and solitude of Svalbard evoke a sense of human insignificance. The expansive snowfields and desolate valleys create an unparalleled sense of tranquility, as if the world has paused. A polar journey to Svalbard is not only a magnificent adventure into nature but also a solitary voyage of self-reflection.

Northern Lights

#myhiddengems The region of svalbard had been a subject of my fascination for quite some time. Seeing Aurora Borealis in person, was naturally the biggest of reasons. But that's not all. In my personal case, there was a challenge in terms of getting leaves at the right time. And the right time being affordable on my pocket. You see I don't mind winters or snow. But not constantly. Coming from an island country that stays warm through out the year. Naturally too I found colder places to be challenging. The case with Svalbard also was that Northern lights are best seen around the winter months of say October to February. And this period falls in the stretch that is famously referred to as 24 hours of darkness. Yes this is the nonstop winter nights phase that this region witnesses. It always had me anxious. This also made the place somewhat adventurous. Eventually I managed a couple of days with affordable transport arrangements. I arrived in Longyearbyen, which is the destination of all flights in, is a unique little town. I have to say the arriving experience was somewhat underwhelming given with the wait my mind had build up this place so much. Besides, things being costly. The adjusting to the weather in terms of travel takes a while too. Once settled at the Hotel, I ventured out to explore. Now this town felt quite cosmopolitan, with art galleries, long wine lists at restaurants, and an outstanding grocery store and mini-mall. The people working in the tourist sector generally spoke english well. There is an interesting museum where a gentleman waived off my entrance fees, a spooky little graveyard, some abandoned mines, and a couple of glaciers visible in the distance. To tell you an interesting fact. The tourism board cautions tourists not to leave the town limits without a firearm. Nothing to worry about but just as a caution against polar bears. All of the activities offered in Longyearbyen involve experiencing the arctic environment surrounding it. Summer activities include hiking, glacier walks, rafting etc. And for a short getaway like mine just to get a glimpse of this region. It worked out decently well. #myhiddengems #100waysoftravel #summerdestinations #svalbard #northernlights #explore #singapore

#norway

Amazing Svalbard

Getting There - Svalbard, Norway Attractions - everything Hotels - Gjestehuset 102 Food & Restaurants - Restaurant Kroa

Two tons of happiness, Walrus- safari

Went on a boat trip to see the walruses in Svalbard. The name of the trip was: “To tonn lykke, Hvalrossafari.” The lunch we got was very good. The captain was clever with the boat and the guide Virgil Reglioni was very service- minded, patient and made the trip extra worthwhile because of his huge knowledge and engagement. And his photos is marvellous. Recommend this experience. #nationalpark

Regardless of the tourists or the expedition team, if you want to go to the Svalbard Islands in the north, the Norwegian northern city of Troms, which is also known as the "Arctic Gate", is a station that must be parked. Most of the locals live in the villas facing the mountains and the sea. There is a wooden house on the hillside. Every household is a sea view room. During World War II, Tromso was the only unspoilt city in northern Norway, and some of the 18th century old buildings were preserved, bearing the history of this small town. Walk in this small town to understand the meaning of "polar". Tromso is far from the world we are familiar with, but the city is quiet and peaceful, quietly silent in the snow and ice, like a fairyland. Walk in the evening by the sea and watch the night view of the Long Bridge and the lights on the other side. The blue cool tone is dotted with warm light, and the whole world becomes soft and watery, silent and mysterious. A restless heart calmed down.

Perhaps in the impression of many people, the Arctic and the Antarctic have a continent. In fact, there is a vast expanse of ice around the North Pole. There are only a few sporadic islands and land around the high latitudes. The Svalbard is one of them and the closest to the extreme human habitation. The city of Longyearbyen, the capital of Svalbard, has a population of more than 2,000, but because it is closer to the North Pole than most of Norway, Iceland and even Greenland, it has a magnificent polar view. It has therefore become the city of angels that travelers around the world yearn for. Longyearbyen, 78°13' north latitude, is the closest city in the world to the North Pole. There is no tree in the small town. The surrounding mountains are covered with snow all the year round. Driving up the mountain is full of glacier snowfields. Walking down the roadbed is the snow without knees. In this pure silver world, it seems to be isolated from the world and enter the world of divinity.

Christmas Eve, Christmas, the light of God is with you. Aurora appears only in the high latitudes of the northern and southern hemispheres and is one of the most amazing astronomical phenomena in the world. It is erratic and can't be met. This winter is the last year of this round of aurora explosion, and it is an excellent time to observe Aurora. This time, I came to the Arctic Circle to find Aurora and pursue the green light that can bring happiness in the legend. According to legend, people who see the aurora will be happy. And tonight, I will give this wonderful to you, wishing everyone a happy and happy life! also welcomes you to share this happiness and pass on happiness.