Scandinavian countries can be one of the most expensive countries to visit in the world, but Norway – an unblemished countryside, home to the spectacular fjords – is the exception. Budget travellers, seeking once in a lifetime experiences and hoping to enjoy luxuries without breaking the bank, will find Norway to be an affordable destination.
Of course, treating yourself to a luxury vacation without draining the wallet requires shrewd planning. Consider the following tips to help you in planning your trip to Norway.
Make Research on your Flight
This is the take off of your vacation, and understandably you would love a first class treatment from the get go. However, exercise caution when booking your flight. Take your time to peruse the internet and compare best prices available. There may be certain Airlines, days or flight routes (in the event your flight is not a direct flight), where you may find cheaper offers for your desired class.
Most Upscale Hotels are where to stay
As ironic as it may seem, staying in high-end accommodations will give you better value for money. The reality is that the best hotels in Norway comes at a bargain when compared with other Scandinavian countries or even global tourist destinations. This is because upscale tourism is still fledgling in Norway.
Luxury Hotels like the Yess! Hotel Kristiansand, in Kristiansand, home to the Sørlandets Museum, which displays Norwegian art from 1800 till present, have rates starting at as low as £111 a night. Therefore, you do not have empty your account to stay in classy accommodations.
Book Shared Excursions
Best moments they say, are shared and it is no exception in Norway. Not only do group excursions offer great experiences, they also reduce cost – up to 70% lower than private tours. The groups do not have to be large or lack quality – getting a small group together for ice-fishing and sledding in Tromso, booking a sailboat tour in the fjords, or taking a tour on a boat while enjoying cocktails and a prawn buffet in Oslo – are all quality luxury experiences. Find out about available group excursions through the local tourist office, online search or your hotel’s concierge.
Splurge on a Few Private Activities
Yes, you can splurge on some private activities too. This is Norway and its reasonable pricing makes it possible for many tourists to treat themselves to intimate and private activities. These activities, which could be anything from seeing the Northern Lights by car or spending the night in a 150-year-old lighthouse in Alesund, are not going to cost more than a few hundred dollars to book for an individual or a couple.
Visit the Capital in the Winter
Related to the first point above, visits made to Oslo – Norway’s stunning capital – are best made during the winter. This is because prices for airline tickets, hotel rates and tours are at their cheapest then. The chilly weather however does not mean boring ambience as the atmosphere is usually lively. Restaurants often offer space heaters and wool blankets to their patrons dine outside. The bars are often crowded with locals and outdoor movies play in the downtown parts.
Enjoy Free Attractions
Norway provide the luxury and opportunity of visiting and seeing its iconic outdoor landmarks free. Iconic sites like National Tourist Routes, a collection of beautiful roads throughout the country, the Trollstigen, a twisty mountain road and the magnificent Geiranger Fjord come free. Take advantage of this.
For those who love road trips, Norway is a scenic driving paradise. Rental cars are affordable, it is easy to drive around with your map and if you lose your way, just ask the next person you see as most Norwegians speak English.
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