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The UK + Scandinavia
  • Thomas Wyatt

The UK + Scandinavia

A 22-day adventure by Thomas Read more
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  • Trip start
    November 9, 2024
    Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler
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    Can’t be Thamed

    November 9, 2024 in England ⋅ ☁️ 10 °C

    The “professional” and “supervised” part of the trip at the University of East Anglia is now done!!! And, so that means that the “tourist” part of the trip can officially begin!

    Today’s escapades came to a head at Carrow Road where Alex and I (plus some friends from Deakin University) witnessed the end of Norwich City’s remarkable unbeaten home record - which had stood for over a year. The Canaries lost 2-0 to Bristol City. 😕😕😕

    London was certainly not on my bingo card for 2024, but it’s SO nice to be back in my favourite city in the world!!!    Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Putting on my “tourist cap”

    November 10, 2024 in England ⋅ ☁️ 9 °C

    Day two in London!!! Today’s adventures began with a leisurely stroll through Hyde Park to Buckingham Palace. From there, I hopped on the Tube to King’s Cross and made my way to Stevenage where I joined Lynda and her family for a Sunday roast - and we practically ate our bodyweight in meat! Following the fun at the carvery, I travelled back to London (with a quick stop off at Westminster) to meet up with some of my Australian friends from Deakin University for a pint at the Tommy Tucker pub - just outside Stamford Bridge - to watch my beloved Arsenal take on Chelsea. Aaannnddd that’s my first full day in London done… I can’t believe that I get to wake up and do it all again tomorrow. 😄😄😄Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Big Ben, the Tower of London

    November 11, 2024 in England ⋅ ☁️ 10 °C

    My feet are Lon-done after today. Day three in London was spent seeing the city’s iconic landmarks. The day began with a walk through the serene Kensington Gardens, followed by a visit to Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guards. We then explored Horse Guards before admiring the architectural grandeur of Big Ben and the historic Westminster Abbey (which was disappointingly under construction). The adventures culminated with a fascinating trip to the Tower of London and a saunter across the sunlit Tower Bridge - where its beauty was on full display. What a day!!! I’m sad to be saying goodbye to London (for now) but I’m also very excited to be jetting off to Scandinavia tomorrow!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Farvel London, hej København

    November 12, 2024 in England ⋅ ⛅ 10 °C

    Today, I got to add another destination to my growing list of countries visited - we have successfully arrived in Copenhagen, Denmark! 🇩🇰 Thanks to a late checkout, Alex and I had the opportunity to spend the morning and early afternoon basking in the sun whilst exploring the iconic Tower Bridge and the busy Borough Market. We then took the Tube to the airport where we boarded the (surprisingly empty) plane bound for Copenhagen. My first impressions of the city are that it’s both clean and quiet - and I’m excited to begin exploring the city tomorrow!!!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler
    23

    Exploring Copenhagen

    November 13, 2024 in Denmark ⋅ ⛅ 8 °C

    This morning, we… or I… decided that a sleep in was necessary after a late night flying to Denmark. The day began with a delightful indulgence in some of Denmark’s famous pastries, appropriately setting the tone for a day full of adventure. (In total, over 28,000 steps!) We aimlessly strolled through the streets of the city taking in some of the stunning architecture - which included time spent at Magstræde, the Royal Library, Nyhaven, Frederik’s Church, and Rosenborg Castle. Although these were certainly sights to behold, the highlight of the day for me came when we sampled a traditional cup of Gløgg. Sooo good. 😂😅 Aanndd the excitement concluded with delicious wood fired pizzas for dinner at an Italian restaurant, plus a walk in the misty rain through the (soon to be opened) Christmas markets. See you tomorrow, Copenhagen - for another fun day!!!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    What. A. Day.

    November 14, 2024 in Denmark ⋅ ☀️ 8 °C

    Today was such a fun day!!! Witnessing the sunlight illuminate the city was a truly breathtaking experience. ☀️☀️☀️ It began by taking a 30 minute (50 minutes if you include the confusion at the beginning of the day) train ride north of Copenhagen to visit the architectural gem that is Bagsværd Church (picture #3 and #4). It was so nice! On our return to the city, we made a detour via Konditaget Lüders - a playground on top of a car park - where we took in the sweeping panoramic views reaching as far as Sweden (picture #7 to #13). Our explorations continued with a visit to the serene Kastellet - a beautifully preserved, historic star-shaped fortress surrounded by lush greenery (picture #16 to #18). After a refreshing power nap back at the hotel, we ventured out to explore Copenhagen at sunset, immersing ourselves in the city’s charming twilight atmosphere. Alex and I then had our first real experiences of the Christmas markets - taking in the festivities (and buying warm Danish socks 🧦) before indulging in a hearty burger from The Old Irish Pub (picture #20). Seriously… What. A. Day.Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler
    1

    Sightseeing in Copenhagen

    November 15, 2024 in Denmark ⋅ ☁️ 10 °C

    Today was our last day in Denmark, so we made the most of it! Our final 24 hours in Copenhagen were filled with visits to some of the city’s landmarks that I was excited to see. We paid a visit (literally) to the famous Rosenborg Castle, we rode Lime bikes on the busy Friday afternoon roads to the University of Copenhagen (for “the best views of the city”), and finally, we wandered through the enchanting Christmas markets at Tivoli Gardens. Denmark! What an unforgettable experience you have been. Your extraordinary architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture have left a lasting impression on me. But! The adventures don’t end here - tomorrow, the journey continues in Finland!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Welcome to Finland

    November 16, 2024 in Finland ⋅ 🌙 4 °C

    Early this morning, we bid farewell to the charming Denmark and embarked on the next leg of our journey, arriving in Finland. After some challenges (including some language barriers) with getting the keys for the Airbnb we successfully made it to our apartment - located just a short 15 minute walk east of the central train station. This afternoon in Helsinki was fairly low-key: I focussed on doing some work for the last assessment of the study tour; and Alex took the opportunity to catch up on some much needed rest after the 4:45am alarm. We will spend the next four nights exploring the city (with an exciting day trip planned)! So stay tuned. See you in the morning, Helsinki!!!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    A fun day in the Helsinki sun

    November 17, 2024 in Finland ⋅ ☀️ 6 °C

    Today’s weather in Helsinki defied all of my expectations - it was surprisingly pleasant despite the modest high of just 7°C. The sun shone brightly throughout the entire day encouraging us to explore all over the city. Our adventures took us through the grand Railway Square where we marvelled at the impressive Helsinki Central Library. We then ventured around the grounds of Finlandia Hall taking in its architectural elegance before we were awed by the bizarre Lasipalatsi Square. Even though the sun set at 3:45pm, the afternoon continued with a leisurely stroll in the vibrant districts of Kamppi and Kluuvi - each offering something unique to look at. And finally, we capped off our day in Finland’s capital with an audacious choice for dinner… a moose burger!!! Ohhh, holidays… you’re the best.Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Day trip to Estonia 🇪🇪

    November 18, 2024 in Estonia ⋅ ☁️ 3 °C

    On today’s agenda, we embarked on an exciting adventure… setting sail across the Gulf of Finland from Helsinki to Tallinn!!! The day got underway with an earlier than desired alarm, followed by a quick bite to eat before speedily getting ourselves to the ferry terminal. After the two hour long voyage, our main focus for the day was to explore Vanalinn - the city’s historic Old Town. We saw most of what Tallinn has to offer, including the Estonian Maritime Museum, the Hellemann Tower, St. Catherine’s Passage, St. Olaf’s Church, and the Toompea Castle - each site offering an insight into the medieval past of the city. And, the best of all? This was just a €22 round trip on the boat! 😮🤭 Well, if the UK wasn’t on my bingo card for 2024, then Estonia CERTAINLY wasn’t. Ohhh, boy… what a day!!!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Our time in Finland has Finnished

    November 19, 2024 in Finland ⋅ ☁️ -3 °C

    For today’s Scandinavian adventure, we ventured 45 kilometres northwest of Helsinki to the medieval town of Porvoo. Leaving before dawn, we braved the freezing morning air to catch the 7:55am bus. After arriving, we crossed over the picturesque Porvoonjoki River and set off to explore the town. The highlights of the day for me included the Empire District, Old Porvoo (with its cobblestone streets and colourful houses), and the Porvoo Cathedral. In the early afternoon, we returned back to Helsinki, where I focussed on finishing the last “reflection” assessment for the study tour! YAY!!! 🥳🥳🥳 I can officially be a proper tourist. Thank you, Finland - for your fun and magic. An experience to remember!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler
    3

    Hej Stockholm

    November 20, 2024 in Finland ⋅ ☁️ 0 °C

    Today began and ended in a way unlike anything that I have experienced before - by snowing!!! Thanks to (another) late check-out, we were able to see a little bit more of Helsinki before our late afternoon flight to Stockholm. We took cover out of the rain and snow at The National Library of Finland, the Helsinki Cathedral, and the Old Market Hall - where it was so cold that I bought a coffee (another first for me)! From there, Alex and I caught the train to Helsinki Airport for our scheduled 4:10pm plane to Stockholm. But! It appeared Finland was not ready to say goodbye to us as a snowstorm caused a delay of over four hours. 😅😅😅 Nonetheless, we have arrived in Sweden - with all ten fingers and all ten toes. Unfortunately, due to the delay, much of Stockholm had already closed for the night by the time we eventually arrived. That said, I’m incredibly excited to discover what the city has to offer in the morning!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Wandering the streets of Stockholm

    November 21, 2024 in Sweden ⋅ 🌬 -3 °C

    Today was exceptionally cold but lots of fun - with temperatures barely reaching -4°C, and snow falling constantly throughout the entire day. 😅😮 Despite being the coldest that we both have ever been, it did not deter us and we managed to explore much of the Old City, despite the modest 16,000 steps count. Among the day’s highlights were the Storkyrkan, the - very nearly open - Stortorgets Julmarknad (a Christmas market), and the Royal Palace. Wow! Every corner of Stockholm really is a photo opportunity!!! (Though my frozen fingers might disagree.) 😂 I’m already looking forward to tomorrow - eager to discover and see more of this beautiful city, and (hopefully) uncover the hidden gems that it holds.Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Winter’s day in Sweden

    November 22, 2024 in Sweden ⋅ ☁️ -6 °C

    Today’s adventures started with a brisk walk in the icy air to Skansen, where we indulged in some of Sweden’s best pastries - sweet, flaky perfection that made braving the cold totally worth it! 😂😂😂 However, nothing could have prepared me for the coldest walk I’ve ever experienced as we made our way across the very slippery bridge to Skeppsholmen. Thankfully, the warmth of ArkDes (the Swedish Centre for Architecture and Design) was waiting to greet us. We spent most of the afternoon exploring the fascinating exhibits before finishing the day with dinner at the oddly named Bastard Burgers. It was a day of art, culture, and pastries - with a healthy dose of winter weather thrown in!!!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler
    3

    Christmas markets in Stockholm

    November 23, 2024 in Sweden ⋅ ☀️ -1 °C

    Stockholm today looked straight out of a postcard! Today, we walked to Gamla Stan to catch the opening of the Stortgets Julmarknad - Stockholm’s famous Christmas market. The cobbled streets of the Old Town were dusted with snow, and the crisp winter sun was shining as the city was full of festive spirit. Despite the icy and slippery streets, I successfully managed to stay upright on my own two feet - no slip ups here!!! 😂😅 After spending a few hours exploring the market’s stalls, we wandered over to NK Stockholm (a department store), where we quite literally bumped into a live opera performance - adding an unexpected layer of cultural richness to our day! My time in Stockholm has been an incredible (but cold) experience. Next stop —> Oslo, Norway.Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    There’s Nor-way I’m here

    November 24, 2024 in Sweden ⋅ ☁️ 0 °C

    This morning, we checked out of our hotel and faced the eye watering cost of storing our bags at Stockholm Central Station for the entire day. With our hands free (and wallets emptied), we set off to explore Stockholm for the last time. Alex and I wandered through the streets and stumbled upon a quirky Sunday market just outside of Haymarket (a famous and renowned hotel in Stockholm). There were some strange and unexpected items for sale, further adding to the city’s (somewhat) eclectic vibe. After taking in the sights we sought refuge at the Kulturhuset, where we recharged our batteries before catching the train to Arlanda Airport. After a delicious dinner at MAX Hamburger, we set off for Oslo - where the next adventures await!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Welcome to Norway

    November 25, 2024 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ 8 °C

    Today, the temperature reached a maximum of 8°C, and I nearly found myself sweating in the tropical Norwegian heat!!! (Or maybe not.) 🤪 We kicked off our Oslo adventure with a walk across the Akrobaten Bridge, taking in the stunning views of the city. On the other side, as we wandered through the Bjørvika district, we were amazed by the modern architecture of the area. We passed by the MUNCH art museum before we climbed to the top of the iconic Operahuset Oslo, where we enjoyed panoramic views of both the city and the (very cold looking) waterfront. Our next stop was at the Deichman Library - a building that Alex studied as part of his university degree. From there, we ventured through Oslo’s historic Old Town, and we finished our day of exploration at Spikersuppa, where we found a Christmas market buzzing with festive spirit. Aaannnddd that’s day number one in Oslo done! Time to rest and do it all again tomorrow. 😊😊😊Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    When in Oslo… do as the Norwegians do

    November 26, 2024 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ 8 °C

    When in Oslo… do as the Norwegians do - that’s the saying, yeah? 😅🤷‍♂️ This morning, we set off to explore the city with a walk through Oslo’s vibrant Bjørvika district. Our first stop was at Kveitemjøl, a small bakery with the most massive cinnamon buns you’ll ever see - a treat that was more than worth the indulgence. With our (… or rather, my) sweet cravings satisfied, we headed towards the Akershus Festning where we soaked in the fortress’s rich history and enjoyed the incredible views of the Oslo Fjord. After exploring the site, we retraced our steps back to where we had started - however, this time making our way further to the Astrup Fearnley Museet. While some of the exhibitions were… unconventional, the museum’s picturesque waterfront setting made up for it! As we made our way back to the hotel, we said g’day to our friends at the Operahuset Oslo and the Deichman Library - all framed by the golden hues of today’s sunset. The day’s adventures concluded at the Oslo Street Food Hall, and I nourished myself in some Korean Fried Chicken goodness. An appropriate end to a happy day in Norway!!! 😄😄😄 Holidays are the BEST!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Goodbye Scandinavia… it was ferry good

    November 27, 2024 in Norway ⋅ ☁️ 3 °C

    Today marked the end of our Scandinavian adventure, and it’s hard to believe how quickly the time flew by! It feels like just yesterday we were touching down in Copenhagen, excited to explore this beautiful part of the world. To cap off our journey through the Nordics, we decided to splash out (no pun intended) and take a ferry tour of the Oslofjord. The ferry ride was absolutely awesome!!! As we cruised through the fjord, we were treated to some incredible views of Oslo and the surrounding areas. We passed by countless small islands dotted with traditional wooden houses and lush greenery. Ohhh, Scandinavia… this entire experience has been truly remarkable! From wandering through the vibrant cities to sampling new foods and immersing ourselves in Scandinavian culture and history, this trip has far exceeded my expectations. Every moment has been a highlight, and while I’m sad to leave, I know that the memories we’ve created here will last a lifetime. Until next time, Scandinavia - you’ve been nothing short of magical. And now, it’s on to London (again)!Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    The adventures are not Lon-done yet!

    November 28, 2024 in England ⋅ ⛅ 3 °C

    There’s really no place like London on a sunny day! After an early start at 4:30am (and a one hour delay on the tarmac), we caught a flight from Oslo and arrived in London at 11am. We dropped our bags off at the hotel, and while Alex headed to the British Museum, I met up with a friend from Deakin University to explore the hectic Borough Markets before dawdling across the iconic Tower Bridge. Later, I wandered through Westminster taking in the famous sights of Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. Fuelled by an iced latte and a Wispa chocolate bar, I then visited the festive Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park - although I didn’t actually go in, I have added it to the long list of things to do tomorrow! It’s ALWAYS nice to return to my favourite city, surrounded by its familiar landmarks and vibrant energy. 😄😄😄Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    A day in Bath

    November 29, 2024 in England ⋅ ⛅ 10 °C

    It’s hard to believe that the trip is coming to an end - it’s gone by so quickly!!! As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. For our last full day on the road, we hopped on the train to Bath, ready to explore every corner of the UNESCO World Heritage site. It did not disappoint! From the moment we stepped off the train, Bath captivated us with its incredible architecture and atmosphere. We spent the day wandering through the winding streets as the sights, sounds, and… of course… the tastes of the Christmas markets were all around us. The highlight of the day for me was undoubtedly spending over two hours walking around the Roman Baths - which offered a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ancient history. It’s easy to imagine what it must have been like centuries ago. While it’s always difficult to say goodbye to Europe, Bath was the perfect way to wrap up this unforgettable experience. Shock! 😂😂😂 Another 10/10 day. Of course, we do have half a day left in London tomorrow so the adventure isn’t quite over yet. However, the past three weeks spent exploring the UK and Scandinavia have been nothing short of extraordinary. It has been a powerful reminder of how lucky I am to have the opportunity to explore these amazing places. And, more than just a great trip, it has only strengthened my dream of one day living in London! See you tomorrow, for one final (half) day in this remarkable city. 😄😄😄Read more

  • Thomas WyattThe UK + ScandinaviaTraveler

    Until we meet again, London

    November 30, 2024 in England ⋅ ☁️ 13 °C

    Well… it’s time to go home - and time to burn off all of the pastries and other sweet treats that I’ve eaten over the past five weeks. We started our last morning at the magnificent Westminster Abbey before stumbling across the Christmas markets at Trafalgar Square and Leicester Square, where I indulged in a huge Bratwurst sausage. YUM! We then strolled past St. James’ Palace and said a quick “hello” to Buckingham Palace before winding our way through Hyde Park. On our way back to the hotel to pick up our bags, we made a quick stop at Harrods - but it was so busy we found ourselves walking out as soon as we went in. Now… Alex and I have gone our separate ways, and I’m at the airport ready to board my flight to Singapore, and then on to Melbourne. It’s been an unforgettable journey. Until next time, London - I’ll be back before you know it. 😄😄😄Read more

    Trip end
    November 30, 2024
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