Cape Verde Islands

A blue-blue ocean with salt mines.

New Year's Eve surrounded by palm trees and the beach? Sounds interesting? I have always dreamed of spending the last day of the old year in a warm country. That's why I went to . They consist of ten main islands located in the central part of the Atlantic Ocean. Why there?

The archipelago has many islands, I visited the one most frequented by thyrists. One of the main reasons is the location. Most airlines have flights to Espargos airport, the capital of the Sal Island.

What can you see?

The island of Sal has a lot to offer. One of the biggest attractions is the salt mines in Pedra Lume. In the crater of a former volcano, sea water is turned into salt. For a fee of 5 euros, you can lie down in the salt lakes and float. The salinity is so strong that the water lifts you freely to the surface without any effort. Local guides believe that such a bath rejuvenates the skin by 10 years. I admit they were right that the skin felt softer and more delicate.

Buracon Bay

Another point is Buracona, called Blue Eye. It is a natural pool formed by the ocean in lava rocks. When the light shines at the right angle, the pool turns into a turquoise blue paradise for the eyes. Right next to the pool there is a kind of bay where you can swim in good weather conditions. Entry costs 3 euros.

Shark Bay

When writing about Sal, one cannot fail to mention shark bay. The guide enters the water with us and leads us towards the ocean to see the little sharks. After reaching the right point, he throws out the food to make the sharks swim. Amazing feeling when you stand knee-deep in the water and little sharks are swimming around, touching your legs. The first and most important rule is not to touch them as they become aggressive. At a distance of about 20 meters (where the water is much deeper) you can see the mum or dad of small sharks watching us. The water is so clear that you can observe sharks and other sea creatures without any problems.

Santa Maria Pier

Of course, the island's "market" is the pier Santa Mariawhere around noon fishermen arrive with fresh catches. The astonishing sight of the locals bargaining for prices while the fishermen gut the fish and pack them for the buyers. It is on this pier that the annual fireworks show during New Year's Eve takes place. Little warning (don't know why), but fireworks go off at 23.30:XNUMX PM and end well before midnight.

Across the island with a 4 × 4 car

Getting to know the island is not only about spending whole days on the beach, quite the opposite. I recommend renting a decent car and going on a trip around the island. As you travel through the desert island, the feeling of freedom and adrenaline rises to a high level. There are not many main asphalt roads on the island of Sal, but there are run-down sand roads. It takes a lot of imagination and orientation in the field to traverse wild attractions. I also say that unsure drivers can not cope there (I speak from my own experience).

A blue-and-blue ocean with salt mines. Shells, shells and more shells

Another interesting place is the so-called Shell graveyard. There are many of them on the island, you can go to the one in Santa Maria. Literally 10 minutes walk from the center, there is a coast full of beautiful shells. Not many people go there, but I find it a perfect place to take some seashell souvenirs with you.

I recommend it to anyone who wants to combine relaxation with adventure and good local cuisine. Santa Maria, a beach town, is a safe place for everyone. Seafood, fish, beach, palm trees and sun - these are the words I can describe Sal i .

Read my next article: With a tent for ...

With a tent through Vestland - Kristiansund and a marble mine

Another article in the series With a tent through Vestland- Kristiansund and the marble mine. The last point of the trip was the town of Åndalsnes. This time we headed towards Kristiansund. It was one of those days when the sun was with us all the way.

Kristiansund - the capital of dried cod

During our trip through WestlandKristiansund couldn't be missed. It is a small town full of life. Kristiansund is called the Norwegian capital of cod. As you stroll along the coast in the city center, you can see the mighty ships returning from fishing. One of the must-see points is Varden. It used to be a watchtower, now it is the viewing point at the highest point in Kristiansund.

Also worth a stop is Vanndamman Park, which is home to many species of birds. It is a place worth visiting with children, the biggest attraction was the peacock strolling through the park.

We spent the whole day in Kristiansund, stopping at probably the only campsite there. Close to the city, this is the first campsite where the price of accommodation included a shower without a time limit. (At other campsites usually a fee must be paid 15 NOK for 5 minutes in the shower.)

Atlantic road

Of course, while in Kristiansund, you cannot miss the famous Atlantic Road. It is a road roughly 9 km long that connects the island of Averøy to the mainland. Riding the bridges connecting the archipelago of islands, it feels like being in the open waters, but this time being in the car, not in the ship's cabin.

Marble mines in Bergtatt

We found the marble mines by accident. We bought the ticket online the day before the tour date. The price for an adult is 400 crowns, and the ticket for children cost 200 crowns. We arrived at the parking lot in the place given when booking. The bus came and took us all to the mine. On site, everyone was provided with a helmet and a life jacket.

We got on wooden boats, they looked more like big rafts with benches. The guide stood at the helm and talked about the history and what they were actually doing in the mine. Marble mining began around 1938. The team consisted of only 8 people who excavated tons of marble daily. The main product for which marble is used is high-quality paper. This type of paper consists of about 40-60% marble. Currently, the mining works have stopped because there is no market demand for such expensive paper. That is why this place was turned into a tourist destination.

Kristiansund and the marble mine

When you swim through the cave, you can see the transparent water flowing from the rocks. During the trip, we made a small stop. Everyone was given a small cup to try the highly mineralized water.

At the very end, the guide took us to the concert hall, entirely made of marble, where we could watch a movie about how the marble mining was going.

I admit that it was a very interesting experience. If someone is in the area, I recommend visiting the marble mines in Bergtatt.

The city of dried cod and marble mines were the next point of the Tent trip through Vestland. Another stop and more experiences thanks to which we have more knowledge about the country we live in.

With a tent via Vestland - Åndalsnes

together with Rampestreken

Another article from the series With a tent through Vestland.

We left Geiranger towards Åndalsnes. On the way, stop at the Ørnesvingen viewpoint. There is a car park just off the main street where you can see the entire city of Geiranger and the lake.

The famous Norwegian streamers

Have you ever seen pictures of the famous Norwegian streamers? This place is Trollstigen, it is about 30 minutes before Åndalsnes. A large car park along with a restaurant and gift shop meant we arrived at the popular Trollstigen. A specially prepared path leads to the viewpoint. You don't have to wade through the mud, I'm talking about it because we hit the rain. It takes about 15-20 minutes to get to the point. The view was breathtaking even though there was a slight fog. It did not spoil the effect of the famous Norwegian streamers. Be patient when you come across a group of tourists who know each other very well and want to take a picture with everyone.

Åndalsnes- Rampestreken a mountain of challenges

Thanks to Åndalsnes, you can check your condition. One of the most famous places is the Rampestreken viewpoint. It is located at an altitude of 537 meters above sea level. It is a red trail, I say it deliberately, because we did not pay attention to it when we started climbing. Many people have made an attempt to reach the top, not everyone has managed to do so. We were one of them. The first 100 m is quite an easy stretch. After 100 meters, climbing begins. By this I mean a steep mountain with obstacles such as tree roots, mud and stones that you have to climb while holding on to the chains. We reached 200 meters above sea level, where there is also a vantage point. We were incredibly proud of ourselves. Even though we both work physically and thought our condition was in good shape, unfortunately we didn't make it to the top. As I mentioned before, we are not red trail hikers.

A town for everyone

I recommend taking a walk around the town of Åndalsnes, where you can visit the Norsk Tindesenter museum. With an interactive exhibition related to Norwegian mountaineering. There are several beaches in the city where you can spend a sunny afternoon. We visited Kammen beach. It is worth going there with children, because there is a playground right next to the beach.

Campsite surrounded by mountains

A few more words about camping. Åndalsnes has several campsites on offer. We chose Mjelva Camping, where you can rent a hytt or sleep in your own tent. One of the better campsites as it was close to the city and away from the city at the same time. Unforgettable night views. Mighty mountains and the illuminated city of Åndalsnes in the distance. The campsite also offers activities for families, such as mini golf and go-kart rentals for children. A rainy evening can be spent in a modest pub, on a sofa with a glass of wine.

Another day went by in Åndalsnes. A city that presents us with challenges, and at the same time allows us to spend a nice time strolling along the coast of Romsdalsfjorden.

With a tent through Vestland - Geiranger

With a tent through Vestland

As I announced, another article in the z series by tent through Vestland. Another day, another adventure and another place. This time it's time for the little tourist village of Geiranger.

Through the snow and the frozen lake

Djupvatnet

We set off from Loen towards Geiranger because we heard there were beautiful views. What we saw was beyond our imagination. Breaking through the winding and snow-capped mountains slightly shocked us as it was mid-July. A meter high roadside snowdrifts did not indicate that it was summer. Lake Djupvatnet emerged from around the bend, which was covered with ice with blue streams piercing here and there. The whiteness of the snow was so glaring that despite the lack of sun, it was impossible to open your eyes without sunglasses. After a while, we saw the Djupvasshytta cafe, which is located at an altitude of 1030 meters above sea level. We couldn't help but stop, drink hot chocolate and admire the snow-covered space around us. One of the most surprising sights was an old man breaking his bike through the mountains. Why not? However, we chose four wheels.

Geiranger fjord

Through bends, a frozen lake and snow-covered mountains, we reached the picturesque town of Geiranger. We stayed at the Geiranger campsite because it was located right on the shore of a UNESCO-listed fjord. I must admit that there were a lot of people traveling with campers and tents. Very well located campsite with open store every day. To the so-called The town center is literally 10 minutes away on foot. Small, narrow streets with cafes and a few restaurants. One of the most crowded places was a fast food restaurant. Personally, I recommend going to the restaurant right next door, where the prices didn't differ that much. More importantly, there was much more space inside and tastier dishes.

Geiranger

It happened that we ate in restaurants or roadside pubs. Usually we tried to prepare the dinners ourselves. Mostly it was something grilled. Grilled peppers, mushrooms, steaks or the famous pølse. We took a small grill with us that could be placed right next to the tent (it's like a kitchen and a bedroom in one).

With a tent through Vestland -Geiranger. Tourist attractions

One of the most charming places in Geiranger is the Storfossen Waterfall. There is a path from the campsite that turns into a staircase that leads all the way to the top. About 20 minutes on foot. If someone asks if it's worth it, I will answer: without a doubt. The view was unearthly. From the top you could see a rushing waterfall breaking through the rocks. And at its foot there is a campsite with the Geiranger fjord.

There are many hiking trails of various difficulty levels around the village. There are blue trails for people who do not climb the mountains every day (like us). For the advanced ones, there are also red ones.

Don't forget to take a stroll right on the edge of the fjord where you can meet the big troll.

After 22:00 the camping and the sounds of the cars stopped. It was the best time for a night stroll along one of the trails. It ran along the left side of the fjord. Approximately 30 minutes' walk from where you can see the fjord and the whole of Geiranger. It was 23:30 pm and still light, the perfect time to go for a walk.

Tent, camping, hiking trails and that's how another day of travel passed. Still, when I close my eyes, I can hear the sound of the waterfall hitting the rocks.

See you grow our next article on what to see in Norway.

With a tent through Vestland

A series of tent articles is launched by Vestland.

In the next few texts, I will present the places I must visit one should go. Snow-capped mountains, fjords full of clear water and waterfalls breaking through the rocks. Traveling with family, partner or friends? Everybody can find something for self.

At the beginning, be prepared that the weather is different to what we have in Oslo. Although I must admit that we managed to catch some sun.

Visiting Vestland with a tent

The first place I want to mention is Loen with Lake Lovatnet. After a long search, we managed to find one of the most charming and untouched campsites. It is a bit hidden and you have to walk about 10 minutes from the parking lot but let me tell you it was worth it. At the campsite you can sleep in the so-called hyttach, be a tent. There are many places around where you can make a fire. And in the middle is a small hytta for all travelers, with a wood-burning stove where you can heat water for tea. Believe me, hot tea was a godsend when the temperature dropped to 4 ° at night.

Nature, the voices of nature

Around the trees and tents fenced from the herd of sheep and cows. Thanks to the bells hanging on their necks, we had a nice concert in the morning. Kepming is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the Bødalsbreen Glacier. One of the trails leads to the lake and the foot of the glacier (approximately 30 minutes one way).

If someone loves the wild atmosphere away from civilization, I recommend going to the Bødalssetra campsite. The only payment option is cash or vipps. Before entering the narrow road leading to the campsite, there is a board with a price list and the necessary information. On google maps, it is not marked with that name. You can google Huldrefossen (Loen) and right next to it there is a parking lot belonging to the campsite.

This is just one of the many places I have visited, more suggestions will appear in the following articles. If anyone has any questions about the trip, just contact us.

Remember about our instagram, where there will also be entries with photos.

The Polish community in Oslo

Polish traces in the Norwegian capital

Oslo, the capital of Norway, has been attracting people from all over the world for years with its openness, modernity and extraordinary opportunities. Poles constitute a significant group among those who decided to settle here. Ours has a lot to say, and above all, we have such different and interesting personalities that I simply want to write and read about. There are a lot of us, as we all know, so I believe that this potential should be used and shared.

Poles in Oslo: the numbers speak for themselves

Statistics show that Poles are one of the largest immigrant groups in Norway, and Oslo is a city, where their concentration is the highest. According to data from recent years, the number of Poles in Oslo and surroundings exceeds several dozen thousand. This proves the dynamic development of our community and its significant impact on local culture and economy.

The influence of the Polish community on the culture and economy of Oslo

Poles in Oslo they contribute to the development of the city not only by working in various economic sectors, but also by active participation in cultural life. Polish stores, restaurants and cultural organizations are a visible sign of our presence. What's more, The Polish community is known for organizing eventsthat promote our culture and traditions, bringing them closer to our Norwegian friends.

Stories that connect: Personal stories of Poles in Oslo

Ours is not only about numbers and statistics, it is above all people with their extraordinary stories. Among us there are entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, seasonal workers - each with a unique story and experience. In our posts, we want to present these stories, showing how diverse and colorful our community is.

The future of the Polish community in Oslo: Challenges and opportunities

Despite many successes, it faces various challenges. Integration with the Norwegian community, preservation of Polish identity and language among younger generations, and related issues work and life abroad, these are just some of them. However, looking at the dynamics and commitment of our community, the future looks bright.

– A community full of life

Ours is not just numbers and facts. These are, above all, people who contribute to it every day creating the multicultural heart of Norway. Follow our posts, your entry may appear soon. Get to know our community better and join us in creating our community.

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