Denmark –
Located south of Sweden and Norway, Denmark is a small country with plenty to offer, including seemingly endless coastline with white, sandy beaches, a rich maritime culture, fertile farmland, and bike trails throughout the colorful countryside. Denmark has a long history dating back over 1,000 years to the Viking Age and has one of the world’s oldest monarchies. Art, culture, and design play a huge role in society which is evident in the many museums, theaters, concerts, and the numerous festivals and cultural events taking place all year long. The capital city of Copenhagen is contemporary with an old-world charm and offers history, the arts, shopping, and world-class dining to visitors and residents alike. Do as the Danes do and take a bike trip through the city. And certainly don’t miss Tivoli Gardens, a beautiful amusement park for children and adults of all ages.
Faroe Islands –
This lush collection of islands is located in the North Atlantic. While an independent nation, the Faroes are a territory of Denmark, which influences its culture. Dramatic landscapes await with oceanside cliffs, waterfalls, tunnels through the green mountains, and cozy harbors.
Finland –
For centuries, Finland has been part of either Sweden or Russia, which has influenced its architecture, culture, and language. Its landscape features untouched forests, crystal clear lakes and an extensive coastline with a memorable archipelago. Be it swimming, fishing, biking, or hiking, the Finns make the most of their environment regardless of the season. You’ll find a mixture of historic and contemporary architecture throughout Finland and a large variety of Finnish design in textiles, glass, clothing, jewelry, and more. You will definitely be able to sample an authentic Finnish sauna! In northern Finland, above the Arctic Circle, you will find the expansive and sparsely populated landscapes of Lapland. Here you will have the opportunity to participate in many outdoor activities, as well as experience the wonderful, millennia-old traditions of the indigenous Sámi people.
Greenland –
Greenland is its own definition of exotic: the modern Inuit culture has preserved much of its tradition, which relies on fishing and hunting, the loyalty and strength of the Greenlandic sled dog, and strong family ties. The massive inland icecap, while a topic in the world news and global warming, still dominates the land. Gigantic icebergs float like bath toys, the horizon changing as they drift slowly. Historical ruins dot the landscape, leaving us to wonder what life was like a thousand years ago. In the summer months, the wildflowers complement the Arctic landscape with bright yellow, deep purple, and vivid white. The beauty of it all is breathtaking, pristine, and untouched. Although few travelers make their way to Greenland, you could be one of the lucky ones who do.
Iceland –
In this “steamy” country of geysers, waterfalls, and rich geology, a variety of experiences await you. The landscape is a vast lava desert encompassing active volcanoes and glaciers, with its own unique beauty that the Icelanders are very proud of. Try bird watching, whale watching, hiking and biking, experience the geysers and hot springs, snowmobiling, riding Icelandic horses, and rafting. Or just relax and soak your worries away in the geothermal Blue Lagoon. Explore Iceland’s rich history dating back to the Viking Age, its culture, including art, handicrafts, and cuisine, as well as its capital of Reykjavík, with excellent shopping, dining, and nightlife.
Norway –
Towering mountains, deep fjords, and thundering waterfalls… the “Land of the Midnight Sun.” Depending on the season, Norway can also be the “Land of the Northern Lights.” For many Americans, a trip to Norway is a pilgrimage. For anyone, Norway is a destination not to be missed! Travel through a fjord and marvel at the tall, sheer faces of the surrounding cliffs and farms seemingly “hanging” on the mountainside. Hike over the vast Hardanger Plateau or along a roaring river. Visit northern Norway and find a fisherman’s delight in the Lofoten Islands or visit a Sámi village for a taste of its culture and history. Enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Oslo, the quaint charm of Bergen, known as the “Gateway to the Fjords,” and everything in between!
Sweden –
A smörgåsbord of activities awaits you in Sweden! The capital city of Stockholm is built on 14 islands, including Stadsholmen, which contains the charming Gamla Stan (Old Town). Water is everywhere in Stockholm, and you can rent a kayak or take a boat tour to experience the city from a different perspective. Sweden’s countryside is fertile farmland, lakes, and dense forests, which can be enjoyed while cruising the historic Göta Canal. Travel to southern Sweden to visit the Kingdom of Crystal, where some of the world’s finest glassware is created. In the heart of central Sweden you will find the lake and folklore district, or travel to northern Sweden to experience the Sámi culture, along with unique accommodations of the Tree Hotel and the renowned ICEHOTEL.
Extensions beyond Scandinavia –
Available to Russia (St. Petersburg and Moscow) and the Baltics (Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania).