Australians grow up with the idea that the great Aussie barbie is a true blue tradition that distinguishes us from the rest of the world.  We (used to) get a kick out of our Australian icon Paul Hogan (aka Crocodile Dundee) trying to teach the Americans how to put on a ‘real’ BBQ. When I [...]

Alta’s highpoint is Komsa Mountain.  It may not compete in height or size with Bergen’s Seven Mountains or Tromsø’s Mount Storsteinen – well, in fact, in the post There is a Hill in Alta I thought Komsa was… you guessed it – a hill!  but apparently standing 203 metres above sea level still classifies it [...]

The Sami Easter festival has something for everyone.  Not only can you get up close and personal with the reindeer but there is a whole array of activities that showcase Sami life and culture.  The festival also includes the Reindeer Racing World Cup, the Sami Film Festival (which is held in an ice-cinema), the Sami [...]

Norwegians know how to make the most of a mountain.  From snow sports (skiing, snow boarding etc) to summer sports (glacier hikes, para-flying etc), leisure activities (sightseeing, sunbathing) to modern commodities (restaurants, tunnels).  Not a mountain is wasted.  In fact, nearly every city in Norway is surrounded by high places that give wonderful extended views [...]