cambe

Hi Samejia,

I loved Norway and hope to return for a short visit next year but it is very , very expensive.

IMO, you have to work out your reasons for going to Norway verses Sweden.

If cost is an issue (I know it always is for me) and the ice hotel in Sweden gives you dog sledging and everything you want, I would go with that.

If it doesn't then you will have to pay Norway's inflated prices. BTY Sweden isn't cheap either but cheaper than Norway as you have found out.

samejia

Astein12, thanks for posting your pictures. Great shots!

Cambe, I should be all over Sweden since my great grandmother was born in Hoganas, Sweden which is down near Malmo. I was planning on checking that town out since it's only 1 1/2 hours drive from Copenhagen. Yes, we will switch our destination if my family really wants that ice hotel experience and the Bjorli one is too expensive. It's amazing how much more expensive the Scandinavian countries are versus other parts of Europe. And, I thought London was expensive!! I just wanted to do something that I can't do at home which is why I was staying away from big cities and museums. Besides, my 7 year old would be sooooo whiny! Thanks for your comments. Susan

NorwayFan

In case you are not aware . . . there are some spectacular fjord areas within relatively easy distance from Kiruna. It is a pretty quick drive from Kiruna down to Narvik on the E10 highway. The fjord areas around Narvik are just as scenic as you would find elsewhere. So if you really want a fjord experience as part of your trip, it's still possible.

Check out the slideshow on this site to see the fjords around Narvik and nearby Nordland:
http://thenorwayfjords.com/Narvik-Area-Fjords.html

samejia

NorwayFan, wow! In all the reading I've done, I have not come across this. What a great idea. Do you know if the roads are ok to drive in early April? I found this on the link you gave me. Of course, I have no idea how far away this is from Kiruna.

Driving in Narvik area Norway:

To the North of Narvik, the fjord-side route (mostly Hwy 825), from Grov, through Gratangen and Lavangen, to Tennevoll, is a special back-road trip. Definitely off-the-beaten-track. The scenery is varied and absolutely stunning. A highly recommended route instead of the E6.

sidshan

Astein12 - You could be of immense help! My dad and mom are planning a vacation. The choice is either Alaska or Norwegian fjords. We are based in Europe and hence my brother suggests Norway. I have been to Alaska but not to the Norwegian fjords and recommend Alaska Hence a long discussion at home is on

With your experience of having been to both could you please please tell me which one you recommend and why?

I cant thank you more!!!! You were exactly whom I was looking for and I think I might have found the right answer!

Best regards,
sidshan

astein12

Sidshan,

Hope I can help... it's definitely not an easy decision. I definitely liked both of them and there are some similarities.

Let me ask you a few question...

- How active are your parents? Do they like to hike, kayak, etc.?
- Are they city and town people or prefer the outdoors more?
- What time of year are they going?
- How long a trip are they planning?
- Are they more into tours or doing things on their own?
- Do they like hotels or apartments or bed and breakfasts?

Later!
alan

Jorsal

It is also possible to go by train from Kiruna to Narvik.
Appr. 3 - 3,5 hours

Jorsal

Correction,
2,5 hours

http://www.177nordland.no/ruter/r/31-103.aspx