12 | Viking Explorer Society News
Your ultimate guide to uncovering the hottest travel spots this year, where
unforgettable experiences await at every turn, from serene shores to ancient
wonders and vibrant cultures.
Top 5 Trending
CITIES IN 2025
TROMSØ, NORWAY
Surrounded by dramatic snow-dusted
landscapes and sparkling turquoise
fjords, Tromsø is Norway's most northerly city
and is considered the gateway to the Arctic. It
is a captivating destination that offers a blend
of Arctic wilderness and cultural experiences,
and during winter, it is one of the best
destinations in the world to witness the
magical aurora borealis.
What can you do here?
Winter in Tromsø brings pristine landscapes
surrounded by snow-capped peaks and the
aurora borealis, whose magical lights dance
across the night skies. Ride a reindeer sleigh
through the snow-covered countryside and
meet local Sami people, take a snowshoe hike
into the Arctic wilderness or travel through
the stark beauty of northern Norway's icy
tundra while being pulled by a team of
huskies.
Tromsø's historic centre is spread over a scenic
island. Take the cable car up Mount
Storsteinen for vistas of the city. Admire the
city's blend of wooden structures and
neoclassical buildings including the striking
triangular Arctic Cathedral. Built in 1965 and
designed by the late Norwegian architect Jan
Inge Hovig, eleven aluminium-coated
concrete panels on either side of the roof
provide the cathedral's bold form. Because of
its brilliant acoustics, many musical events are
held here.
Learn all about life in the Arctic at the Polar
Museum, from the history of fox and polar
bear trapping to the ground-breaking
expeditions of Nansen and Amundsen.
Hundreds of artefacts and black-and-white
archive photos are on display.
When is the best time to visit?
Visit Tromsø between November to March for
winter activities and to witness the Northern
Lights.
SHIMIZU, JAPAN
Shimizu, a scenic city on Suruga Bay, is
watched over by the imposing Mt. Fuji.
Its economy thrives on fishing and green tea
exports. UNESCO-protected pine groves make
for a spectacular stroll before reaching a
serene sandy beach, part of a four-mile stretch
of pristine shoreline, while you turn to admire
Mt. Udo and the Miho Peninsula in the
countryside.
What can you do here?
Take a scenic drive to Mt. Fuji, marvel at its
iconic observation cone, and visit the World
Heritage Centre to learn about its significant
history. Enjoy a traditional Japanese lunch and
explore Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha, an
example of Edo-period architecture and the
traditional starting point for pilgrims.
LEARN MORE
