Boarded the train at 8 and even though an old non-speed
train, very neat and very clean and updated and we traveled at about 70 mph
over some of the most beautiful areas in the world. The weather had cleared to
a Great degree as we went east for the 7 hour journey and it got even brighter.
The photos are the one way to describe this incredible trip but think in terms of
crossing the Rockies then coming along Whiskeytown Lake then boating on Shasta
then going back up over and through the Alps. The area is so unique and goes
back to the Ice Age when the glaciers carved these massive fjords that are so
deep and long that trade has been a big factor in their survival over the
years. We went along these fjords then up and over the 4000 feet where it was
slightly snowing and foods were in snow gear. Just one dramatic scenes after
another....and it just kept coming for over 3 hours. Even though it was a short night due to a hotel issue which I
will tell you about separately, Donna......you could not rest in fear of
missing something. Even Audy was awake the entire journey.
As we came over the mountains and down into the valley
heading to Oslo....we started to see these large farm areas....and the beauty
of eastern Norway...and we saw these areas for about 2 hours...with small towns
starting to pop up as we got closer to Oslo.
We arrived in Oslo about 2:30 and then did the included
Oslo City tour. We ended at the hotel at 6...and that was it.....ate in the
room and packed for the early departure.
Oslo....and this is a recorded talk, it seems...is a
beautiful city built around a massive harbor. Very clean and modern still
showing the rich history and heritage....and a 3 hour tour is just note night.
We both agreed and additional day would be much better. We had a good young tour guide that knew his
stuff....but jut too much to fully appreciate in this short of a time. Most
people probably fine but not us.....a great city and we must go back.
Transfers to Oslo were perfect...the Oslo Airport is very
modern and convenient....processing was quick and efficient and could not have
been better and we were off to Amsterdam.
Arrival there was fine, with folks to help....airport is huge but very modern
and clean and user friendly. Flight back on Delta A330 was perfect....but then
the international arrival experience at Atlanta is a disaster and probably the
worst experience in the entire trip. Obviously leadership at this airport just
does not "get it".....with 500 to 600 people waiting to get through
passport control and 3 agents....this airport management is pathetic. And,
after talking with some of the other travelers in line....is now considered one
of the worst international arrival airports in the world of the big airports.
But, we made it...a great trip.....ready to go again...tomorrow.
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