Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/471535
The Northern Lights, the Midnight Sun, and polar twilights; thundering fjords, snow-capped mountains, a cresting whale—these rare phenomena and natural wonders all rest in the land of the mighty Vikings, where the landscape remains as dramatic as the history that created the stunning countries that make up Scandinavia. It's no wonder that Denmark gave rise to the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen, whose "Little Mermaid" looks after the harbor of Copenhagen—a fitting tribute in a city long dedicated to the arts. Here, music is as much a draw as family-friendly attractions like the Copenhagen Zoo and Tivoli Gardens, where a bustling Christmas Market is held each year. More than 7,400 miles of cycle routes cross the country, but many visitors choose to get their exercise shopping in Kongens Nytorv, Læderstræde, Latin Quarter, and Strøget, the longest pedestrian street in the world. In Norway's Oslo, specialty shopping can be found on Akersgata, Grensen and City Hall, but the creations of man are best appreciated in the 63-acre Ekebergparken Sculpture Park and Viegelandsparken Sculpture Park, beloved by travelers, locals, and resident 212 sculptures alike. A widespread nightlife is best enjoyed after a day at the two UNESCO World Heritage fjords or the designer Holmenkollen Ski Jump…and just as well enjoyed in Helsinki, Finland. Known for its festivals, music, and avant-garde designs—fitting for a city influenced by Classicism, Functionalism, and Art Nouveau—this city has also become a haven for foodies, where trendy bistros happily refuel winter sports enthusiasts. Nearly 125 miles of cross-country skiing trails welcome athletes, and skating, sledging, ice swimming, ice sculpting and snow-kiting are encouraged. Outdoorsy types should also find themselves overjoyed in Stockholm, Sweden, where ferries, boats, kayaks, bicycles, or ice yachts provide access to the 30,000 islands, skerries, and rocks in the archipelago. A charming city spread across 14 islands in Lake Mälaren, Stockholm peers across the Baltic Sea, guarding its 13 th century German-style Old Town carefully. Café culture is favored here, and the "glamour hub" of Östermalm brings visitors out of the rugged wild of the spectacular coast, and back to modern day comforts and luxuries. VACATION ENHANCING TOURS See the cities of Scandinavia the way they were meant to be seen. Pre-arrange your tours before travel, and make your vacation an experience. DENMARK Copenhagen City Sightseeing Tour Grand Tour of Copenhagen NORWAY Oslo City Sightseeing Tour Consult your travel agent for more details on these and other tours. CLARION HOTEL ROYAL CHRISTIANA, OSLO O O O O H Clarion Hotel Royal Christiana, Oslo is a vibrant hotel with 532 modern rooms, creating an inspiring ambiance right in the heart of Oslo. The hotel's central location provides perfect access to explore the city where shopping opportunities and attractions are just right outside the door. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner in the large spacious Atrium restaurant, or grab a cocktail at the Bar Royal. OSLO, NORWAY NORDIC LIGHT HOTEL O O O O H Stay comfortably at Stockholm's design hotel, perfectly situated in the middle of the city. Our soothing, light-filled hotel rooms have space for work and relaxation. The hotel interiors are inspired by that essential Nordic element: light. The results are clean, simple, and transparent in color and shape. Nordic Light Hotel, a member of the international association Design Hotels, has 175 rooms and a vibrantly illuminated lobby. As our hotel guest, you will always have access to our VIP services: The List, luggage service, valet parking, a selection of spa treatments, our fresh new gym, and world-class service overall. STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN These fine hotels are also available: DENMARK Copenhagen HOTEL PHOENIX COPENHAGEN O O O O IMPERIAL HOTEL O O O O Helsinki RADISSON BLU PLAZA HOTEL, HELSINKI O O O O H SCANDINAVIA WELCOME TO 2 10 111 99 803 A T L A N T I C O C E A N S W E D E N F I N L A N D N O R W AY Oslo Bergen Stockholm P O L A N D G E R M A N Y North Sea Barents Sea Helsinki R U S S I A Copenhagen D E N M A R K E S TO N I A L AT V I A L I T H U A N I A Gulf of Finland Gu l f o f B ot h n i a Ba l t i c Sea N o r w eg i an Se a 0 400 miles 0 400 km Scandinavia 69