Northern Lights

#myhiddengems The region of svalbard had been a subject of my fascination for quite some time. Seeing Aurora Borealis in person, was naturally the biggest of reasons. But that's not all. In my personal case, there was a challenge in terms of getting leaves at the right time. And the right time being affordable on my pocket. You see I don't mind winters or snow. But not constantly. Coming from an island country that stays warm through out the year. Naturally too I found colder places to be challenging. The case with Svalbard also was that Northern lights are best seen around the winter months of say October to February. And this period falls in the stretch that is famously referred to as 24 hours of darkness. Yes this is the nonstop winter nights phase that this region witnesses. It always had me anxious. This also made the place somewhat adventurous. Eventually I managed a couple of days with affordable transport arrangements. I arrived in Longyearbyen, which is the destination of all flights in, is a unique little town. I have to say the arriving experience was somewhat underwhelming given with the wait my mind had build up this place so much. Besides, things being costly. The adjusting to the weather in terms of travel takes a while too. Once settled at the Hotel, I ventured out to explore. Now this town felt quite cosmopolitan, with art galleries, long wine lists at restaurants, and an outstanding grocery store and mini-mall. The people working in the tourist sector generally spoke english well. There is an interesting museum where a gentleman waived off my entrance fees, a spooky little graveyard, some abandoned mines, and a couple of glaciers visible in the distance. To tell you an interesting fact. The tourism board cautions tourists not to leave the town limits without a firearm. Nothing to worry about but just as a caution against polar bears. All of the activities offered in Longyearbyen involve experiencing the arctic environment surrounding it. Summer activities include hiking, glacier walks, rafting etc. And for a short getaway like mine just to get a glimpse of this region. It worked out decently well. #myhiddengems #100waysoftravel #summerdestinations #svalbard #northernlights #explore #singapore