Seeing the aurora borealis, better known as the “Northern Lights,” is a bucket-list-worthy experience for many travelers. So what if you could see them while embarking on a cruise that shows off Norwegian cuisine as well? This exciting new tourism experience takes place aboard The North Cape Express, launched in 2023 by Hurtigruten and meant to be a “food-forward” route. Passengers can choose from itineraries that range from 7 to 15 days, enjoying all of Norway’s best.
Savoring Local Delights Onboard
On board the MS Trollfjord, passengers enjoy a culinary spectacle aimed at showing you just how good Norway’s cuisine really is. Every dish is a celebration of Norway’s unique flavors, from reindeer tartare to unique ice creams.
Things don’t come to a standstill when the ship is docked, either. Shore excursions provide chances to sample local temptations as well, like devouring heaps of colossal king crabs in Honningsvåg, or trying beverages with delightful flavors that tease your taste buds in an ice bar at the world’s most Northern ice hotel.
A Taste of Norway’s Fjord-to-Table Movement
The commitment to fjord-to-table dining aboard the MS Trollfjord is a testament to Hurtigruten’s dedication to offering passengers an authentic and sustainable culinary experience. Onboard restaurants like Brasserie Árran and Flora go beyond the conventional dining experience, prioritizing local and homegrown ventures in Norway. Sourcing 80% of their ingredients from local farms, bakeries, dairies, and other regional suppliers, these restaurants are deeply rooted in the culinary landscape of the Norwegian coast.
The North Cape Express also introduces new culinary experiences in its itinerary, including cooking demonstrations, afternoon tea featuring Norwegian brews and sweets, and a seafood-centric fine dining restaurant called Røst. This focus on innovation enhances the overall gastronomic journey for passengers.
A Fresh and Fun Experience
The concept of fjord-to-table dining is more than a gastronomic trend; it’s a commitment to environmental sustainability. By minimizing the distance between the source of ingredients and the dining table, Hurtigruten reduces its carbon footprint and supports the principles of eco-friendly and responsible tourism. The emphasis on using locally produced ingredients not only ensures the freshness and quality of the dishes but also contributes to the support of nearby communities and businesses.
When you add on the chance each night of seeing a stunning aurora borealis, this is a cruise that’s definitely worth going on. A plethora of unique experiences await passengers.
All the Holiday Foods You Can and Can’t Travel With on a Plane
After spending a long and fun weekend with your extended family for the holidays, the only thing getting you through the exhausting airport lines is the thought of enjoying that leftover holiday turkey sandwich you brought. But suddenly, the sandwich you’ve been dreaming about becomes an item that’s not allowed on the plane, especially with that delicious cranberry sauce you carried with you. Here’s a TSA food list that tells you which festive foods are and aren’t allowed on the flight.
Festive Foods Allowed Through a TSA Checkpoint
Turkey, chicken, steak, ham, or any other meat is a big yes that you can carry with you in any form, like cooked, raw, or even frozen. Stuffing is also allowed, cooked or uncooked, provided you have stored it in a tight box or a bag. Casseroles are a big yes too! It’s mentioned in the TSA website’s guidelines that traditional green beans and onion straws are also allowed.
Macaroni and cheese is okay too in a sealed pan or you can simply carry its ingredients and cook them when you arrive at your place. All fresh vegetables and fruits like potatoes, broccoli, yams, apples, bananas, lemons, and more are allowed. Candy, spices, and desserts like homemade cookies or store-bought pies and brownies are allowed.
Holiday Foods That Should Go in Checked Luggage
Cranberry sauce, either homemade or canned, is considered spreadable, so put it in your checked bag in a sealed box. No gravy items are allowed. Canned vegetables and fruits come with liquid inside the can, so ensure they’re sealed and packed well. Spreads like jam, jelly, and preserves are a big no. Liquid items like maple syrup or apple cider need to be checked in your checked baggage, but there’s a possibility they might get stopped.
When packing foods inside your checked luggage, just make sure they are easily accessible to be pulled out during security checks if required. And don’t forget to add them in tightly sealed boxes so there’s no spillage. Go on and enjoy your festive foods at home.