Oslo

When I was researching how to get to Oslo from Bergen, I was suggested two options, to fly or get the train. After doing a little bit of research I decided that traveling by train was my preference. The train departed at 6:21 and took nearly 7 hours but it was very scenic. We passed through tunnels, villages, over big rivers and along the edge of fjords. There was even some snow on some of the mountains when we got inland. I was glad to take the train journey as it was definitely much more exciting than flying.

When I arrived in Oslo the sun was shining. It was nice to be able to walk around without needing all the rain gear. After a quick lunch I walked around the city of Oslo and saw the Opera house, the Royal palace and the port. Once I checked into the hotel I decided to go for a swim in their rooftop swimming pool followed by heated sauna. As the sun was shining there was a beautiful view over the city.

That evening I met the organisers from Specsavers. They showed me the room I would be presenting in and the set up. All the speakers had some dinner that evening in the hotel. It was nice learning about Norwegian Optometry systems and having friendly conversations.

The following morning was the clinical conference, after a short gym session and some breakfast I was ready to go. I had two sessions repeating my presentation twice explaining the Optometrist's role in pre-op and post-op cataract patient's journey. It was really well and I even started to enjoy it in the second session. Thankfully I arrived in Oslo early as Brendan Cummings was delayed as his flight got redirected to another Norwegian city as Oslo airport was closed due to drones around the airport. He was very rushed once he arrived and had to leave early to catch his flight home again.

I am glad that I was asked to do the presentation and delighted it went well. It was nice being able to enjoy travelling around the Norwegian country while also combining work opportunities. Hopefully I will be able to do this again soon.Read more