Hei Hei: The Arctic Circle

Hei Hei. Norwegian for hello. We crossed the Arctic circle at approximately 0755 this morning. The scenery changes rapidly, and the rolling green pastures, pine trees and Norwegian architecture shift to rocky outcrops and mountains dusted with snow. It's cold. Bloody cold.

The Arctic ceremony on board heils the God of the Arctic. (Gods?). My listening skills aren't great in a crowd of voices, and Google brings up many possible Arctic gods. I refrain from the ice baptism on offer, though I do elect a glass of champagne. I'm brave. I'm adventurous. But I'm already struggling with the absence of feeling in my fingertips. I decline the ladle of ice down my back.

I woke early today. 5am. A quick few kms at the gym to channel the feelings (with a seriously incredible view). I was homesick and missing my loved ones. I'm still missing everyone terribly, though my gratitude is renewed as I bask in this incredible place in the world.

An Arctic hike awaits this afternoon.Read more