​

Hindu Senior Citizens of South Jersey (HSCSJ)

Scandinavia – June 15 to July 2, 2024
(Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway)
16 Nights - 17 Days

Scandinavia and the Nordic region are historical and geographical regions covering much of Northern Europe. Extending from above the Arctic Circle to the North and Baltic Seas, the Scandinavian Peninsula is the largest peninsula in Europe. Popular tourist destinations Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and on occasion, Greenland, all make up the Nordic countries. (Three of them took the top three spots on the United Nations' World Happiness Report in 2021, with Finland being number one for the fourth year in a row.) As a whole, Scandinavia has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world and is enriched with its own culture and way of life, which draws in millions of people every year.
 

Day 01           Helsinki     16 JUNE 2024

Arrive Helsinki and after immigration and customs meet your Tour leader at the meeting point and transfer to your booked Hotel. (check in 1500 Hrs.) Welcome to Helsinki – the Finnish capital. These countries boast pristine natural landscapes, cosmopolitan cities and intriguing Viking heritage. In summer one can spend time basking in the midnight sun. Helsinki is a vibrant seaside city of beautiful islands and great green parks, a compact city, it’s rhythm is laid back yet at the same time refreshingly active. It is the most northerly of continental European capitals. It is often called the “white city of the north” because many of its buildings are constructed of a local light-colored granite. Enjoy dinner. Overnight in Helsinki.

Day 02         HELSINKI TALLIN ( ESTONIA )- HELSINKI   17 JUNE

After breakfast proceed to Pier to take ferry for Tallin. The country’s cultural hub. It retains its walled, cobblestoned Old Town, home to cafes and shops, See the Toompea Castle located on Toompea hill. The castle, an ancient stronghold site in use since at least the 9th century, today houses the Parliament of Estonia. See Kiek in de Kök, a 15th- century defensive tower. The Gothic Town Hall, built in the 13th century and with a 64m-high tower, sits in historic Tallinn’s main square. The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral is an orthodox cathedral in the Tallinn Old Town, and many interesting sites on your walking tour. Relax and soak in the city before getting back to Helsinki by ferry. Overnight in Helsinki.
 

Day 03           HELSINKI CITY TOUR OVERNIGHT CRUISE         18 JUNE

After breakfast proceed on guided city tour of Helsinki by driving past the city's busy harbor and shipyards and down the coastal road by Embassy Park, seeing the colorful open-air market, you will see Senate Square, home to an elegant Lutheran Cathedral, as well as Esplanade, a popular shopping avenue where many designer shops are located. Visit the Sibelius Monument dedicated to the Finnish composer Jean Sibelius sculpted by Finnish artist Eila Hiltunen and unveiled on September 7, 1967. The tour will also take you down Mannerheim Street - Helsinki's main street, to see the impressive Parliament building, Visit the National Museum - presents Finnish history from the Stone Age to the present day, through objects and cultural history. and Finlandia Hall - Alvar alto designed this beautiful concert hall and convention center. Later see the Olympic Stadium Helsinki constructed for its hosting of the 1952 Olympic Games. During your sightseeing tour of Helsinki you will also see the unique Rock Church which was built out of solid rock and capped with a copper dome. Later proceed to board overnight Cruise to Stockholm. Overnight on board.
 

Day 04         STOCKHOLM        19 JUNE

After breakfast on the cruise disembark at the Stockholm pier to meet the local guide to proceed on guided tour of the city of Stockholm often referred to as the Venice of the North. Visit Fjällgatan to see the magnificent view of the Swedish capital, spread out on 14 islands with Lake Mälar on one side and the Baltic Sea on the other. See the Old Town with its fascinating narrow cobble-stoned alleys, the Royal palace, the Cathedral, and the City Hall where the festivities of the annual Nobel Prize award take place. Continue to the impressive Vasa Museum, this outstanding museum, which houses eight exhibitions, is one of Sweden's most popular tourist attractions because of its beautifully- preserved wooden warship that sank in Stockholm Harbour during her ill-fated maiden voyage in 1628. Go up on the gondola to the SkyView – Stockholm’s landmark, a world- class attraction that takes you to the top of the world’s largest spherical building for a fantastic view of Stockholm. Chance to visit the second largest IKEA showroom in the world before proceeding for dinner. Proceed to the hotel and check-in. Overnight Stockholm
 

Day 05         STOCKHOLM MALMO   20 JUNE

After breakfast check out and proceed to Malmo a coastal city in southern Sweden. It lies at the eastern end of the striking Öresund Bridge, a long road and railway bridge– tunnel running to Copenhagen, Denmark. In the city center, Lilla Torg is a cobblestone square with cafes, half-timbered houses and shops selling local handicrafts. Malmö Castle, a 16th-century fortress built by King Christian III of Denmark, houses nature, history and art exhibits. Arrive and check in Hotel. Overnight Malmo.
 

Day 06          MALMO COPENHAGEN MALMO       21 JUNE

After breakfast proceed to Copenhagen guided city tour of Copenhagen. It is full of historical buildings and ancient streets. You will see the Little Mermaid - symbol of Copenhagen and the Gefion fountain. The Royal residence Amalienborg Palace consisting of four identical facades, where you may get a chance to witness the change of guards ceremony, Christiansborg Castle the home of the Danish Parliament, and many more sights. Copenhagen is an old harbor and maritime city, one of the most beautiful and enjoyable ways to see it is from a boat sailing down its charming canals on Nyhavn Canal Cruise. Later in the evening return back to Malmo.
 

Day 07         MALMO- GOTHEMBERG           22 JUNE

After breakfast proceed to Gothemberg. Friendly and laid-back, Gothenburg has the hip up-and-coming neighborhoods, Michelin-starred restaurants and vibrant cultural mix you’d expect in a much bigger city – as well as a world-class craft beer scene and some of the best seafood restaurants in Sweden. If you’re looking for things to do in Gothenburg, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Arrive and proceed for guided city tour.Haga is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Gothenburg. Discover Gothenburg during a short but sweet excursion, in which you will learn the most interesting facts about the city, the local lifestyle and the modern transformation of the city. We will meet right by the statue of Poseidon in the Götaplatsen and will go on our stroll from there :-) Discover what the everyday life of a local look like and learn where the city gets its characteristic ambience from, by seeing it through the eyes of a local. Walking through the city, you will discover exactly what makes Gothenburg special! This is also your chance to get insider tips about the best cafes, restaurants and bars to visit during your time here and learn how to make the most out of your visit. This is the perfect experience for someone visiting the city for the first time or someone that wants to rediscover it!. Overnight Gothenburg.
 

Day 08           GOTHEMBERG- GEILO   23 JUNE

After breakfast proceed to Geilo is a town in southern Norway known for ski resorts and mountain trails. It’s a gateway to 2 national parks. The nearest, Hallingskarvet National Park, is characterized by steep cliffs and shelters arctic foxes. A trail climbs to a cabin built by Norwegian philosopher Arne Næss. Southwest of town, the vast Hardangervidda National Park, with its massive plateau, has wild reindeer herds and many lakes and rivers. Overnight Geilo.
 

Day 09         GEILO – NORWAY IN NUTSHELL -

THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR TOUR-24 JUNE

After the breakfast checkout and proceed for Bergen. Today get set for one of the highlight of your trip - Norway in Nutshell. This is a combination of spectacular train rides, impressive trips by boat and scenic bus ride. Be spellbound as you travel through some of the most magnificent scenery in Fjord Norway. Board your scenic train from Geilo to Myrdal, where you change to the Flam railway line, a masterpiece of engineering set in wild and wonderful scenery to travel to Flam. Cherish the beautiful huge mountains and thundering waterfalls as the train glides through tunnels and open stretches on its way down to wild Flam valley. Wander around the idyllic countryside, before embarking on an enchanting boat ride through the spectacular fjords. Be amazed with the splendid scenery as the boat takes you from Aurlands fjord into the Naeroy fjord, one of the narrowest fjord in Europe, surrounded by mighty mountains of up to 1800 meters. Arrive at scenic Gudvangen, board your coach as you travel through the impressive Norwegian landscape to Bergen. Pass charming villages before arriving into Bergen. On arrival enjoy dinner at local Indian restaurant and later check-in into the hotel and relax. Overnight in Bergen.
 

Day 10: Bergen      25 JUNE

This morning enjoy breakfast at the hotel, check out and proceed on your guided city tour of Bergen - the second largest port city of Norway. It is charmingly placed between mountains and fjords. The city was founded in 1070 and is the main capital of the fjord country. Visit Bryggen a UNESCO world heritage site Row of Hanseatic timbered houses with characteristic pointed gables facing the harbor, and see the bustling Fish and Flower Market, the City Park, and the Grieghall - the concert hall of Bergen. Take the funicular railway to Mount Fløyen and get a scenic view of Bergen Fjord. The funicular railway is one of Norway's most famous attractions. Enjoy lunch and spend the rest of the day exploring the bustling city on your own. Overnight in Bergen.
 
Day 11         BERGEN – GEIRANGER    26 JUNE
After breakfast proceed for a beautiful journey of Norway to Geiranger a village in western Norway, at the head of Geirangerfjord. Ferry crossing Oppendal to Lavik & Hellesylt to Geiranger. The Norwegian Fjord Center has multimedia on the history of the region and its inhabitants. Part of the steep Trollstigen mountain road weaves through the village, connecting to Flydalsjuvet lookout, which has views over the fjord. The fjord’s waterfalls, including the Seven Sisters, the Suitor and the Bridal Veil, are visible by boat. Overnight Geiranger
 
 
Day 12         GEIRANGER           27 JUNE
After breakfast visit Geiranger Skywalk – Dalsnibba. Europe's highest fjord view from the road - 1,500 metres. Imagine that you are standing on a mountain top, breathing in fresh mountain air and enjoying the view of snow-covered mountains, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Geiranger Fjord. You can experience all this - and more - at Dalsnibba. And you know what? You don't have to take a single step. Geiranger Skywalk opened in 2016. The surface consists of grates, and the railing is made of glass. This means you can see straight down to the city center and the Geiranger Fjord as well as the mountains and Blåbreen. With a free fall of around 500 metres, you get the sensation of floating - even though you are of course completely safe. Overnight Geiranger.
 
Day 13         GEIRANGER- LILLEHAMMER    28 JUNE
After breakfast proceed to Lillehammer. Lillehammer – in the heart of Norway – is the ideal holiday destination for anyone in search of amazing adventures in the great outdoors. The town has some of the country's most spectacular scenery right on its doorstep, and Rondane, Jotunheimen and Langsua national parks are all within easy reach. With several ski resorts, the amusement park Hunderfossen Adventure Park and a myriad of activities for the playful – summer as well as winter – Lillehammer is a paradise for the active young family. In Lillehammer you can explore the very best of Norwegian countryside – from high mountains to forest-clad hills and cultural landscapes – in one single day. Your next adventure is never far away, and the opportunities for hiking, cycling, skiing or horseback riding are boundless. Overnight Lillehammer.
 
Day 14         LILLEHAMMER-OSLO-ALTA HONINGSVAG    29 JUNE
After breakfast proceed to Oslo airport to board your flight to Alta. Arrive and drive to Honningsvag . Check in your hotel . For centuries Nordkapp has been the great adventure for travelers. As a majestic landmark it has been challenging explorers, royalty and tourists to the north. The steep mountain cliff rises 307 meters above the Arctic Ocean, and marks the end point of the European continent. Nordkapphallen has a rich variety of sights. Immersed into the mountain cliff awaits a spectacular panoramic film that takes you on a journey through four seasons in a landscape full of contrasts, light and breathtaking scenery. At the top level of the building center you will find a restaurant with stunning views of mountain plateau and endless ocean.
 
Day 15         HONINGSVAG-ALTA-OSLO         30 JUNE
 
After breakfast proceed to airport to Alta to board flight for Oslo the capital of Norway, sits on the country’s southern coast at the head of the Oslofjord. It’s known for its green spaces and museums. Many of these are on the Bygdøy Peninsula, including the waterside Norwegian Maritime Museum and the Viking Ship Museum, with Viking ships from the 9th century. The Holmenkollbakken is a ski-jumping hill with panoramic views of the fjord. It also has a ski museum. Overnight Oslo.
 
Day 16         OSLO 01 JULY
 
After breakfast, get ready to meet the local guide who will introduce you to the city of Oslo. See medieval Akershus Fortress, the City Hall from the 1950s, the Royal Palace, Parliament and the National Theatre. Then continue with a visit to the Vigeland Sculpture Park, a famous park that truly has no equal. The park is home to over 200 stone, bronze and cast-iron figural sculptures made by the Norwegian artist Gustav Vigeland. Visit to the top of the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, a large ski jumping hill and get a breath-taking view of Oslo fjords. Proceed to the Bygdoy a peninsula on the western
side of Oslo for a guided tour of Viking Ship Museum. The museum displays the world's two best-preserved wooden Viking ships built in the 09th century, as well as small boats.Vist The Fram Museum is a museum telling the story of Norwegian polar exploration. It is located on the peninsula of Bygdøy in Oslo. Overnight Oslo.
 

Day 17           OSLO FLIGHT BACK HOME     2 JULY

After breakfast proceed to airport to board your flight back home. Tour ends with sweet memories.

 
Suggested Hotels:
 

HELSINKISKYLINE AIRPORT / SIMILAR

CRUISESILJA LINE / SIMILAR

STOCKHOLMSCANDIC JARVA/ HOOM PARK / SIMILAR

MALMOSCANDIC S T , JORGEN/ SIMILAR

GOTHENBURGHQUALITY WEAVER / SIMILAR

GOL-GEILOPERS HOTEL GOL / THON HOTEL / SIMILAR

BERGENSCANDIC KOKSTAD, THON HOTEL AIRPORT/ SIMILAR

GERIRANGERHAVILA HOTEL / SIMILAR

LILLEHAMMERTHON VICTORIA / SIMILAR

OSLOQUALITY ENTRY/ THON OSLOFJORD/ SIMILAR

HONINGSVAGHOTEL SCANDIC / SIMILAR

 
Tour Cost:
$4,650 Per person on Twin sharing basis with Kitchen Caravan / Chef.
Single supplement $1,050
Cost based on 30 Adults traveling together.
Note: Calculated as per todays rate 1 Euro = 1.05 USD
NOTE:  TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT, A DEPOSIT OF $1000 PER PERSON IS REQUIRED. PLEASE CONTACT BHARTI SHAH @ 856-278-4546.   
 
FULL AND FINAL PAYMENT IS DUE BEFORE 30 DAYS OF DEPARTUTE DATE.

Tour cost Includes-

• 16 Nights’ Accommodation in the above mention hotels on Twin/ triple sharing basis

• Day 01 Lunch will be provided as per the flight arrival time

• Internal flight from Oslo- Alta- Oslo

• Daily continental breakfast provided by hotel.

• Indian Lunch & Dinner mentioned as per the itinerary by our own chef.

• Coach service.

• Guided city tour of Tallin, Helsinki, Bergen, Oslo, Stockholm, Gothenburg

• Sightseeing and entrance as mentioned in the itinerary.

• Return ferry to Tallin.

• Rock Church Helsinki

• Ride on the sky view Stockholm.

• IKEA showroom

• Vasa Museum

• Ice Bar Entrance with 1 drink.

• Oresund Bridge

• Little Mermaid- Copenhagen

• Christiansburg Palace Copenhagen

• Train from Geilo- Myrdal

• Cruise from Gudvangen to Flam

• Funicular Ride to Mt Floden

• Dalsnibba Sky walk.

• Holemkollen ski museum Oslo

• Fram Museum Oslo

• Nord Cape Hall entrance ticket

• Service of Indian experienced tour manager

•  
  Tour cost does not include:

• Travel Insurance

• International Airfare

• Visa charges

• TCS 5% OR 20 % as applicable on land package (only if payment is made in INR)

• Any drinks or meals other than specified.

• Porterage & Laundry

• Any personal expense

•  
  CANCELLATION POLICY:
  Prior to 45 days or more                          |        Booking Fees
  Between 44 and 31 days of departure    |        25% of Holiday Cost
  Between 30 and 15 days of departure    |        50% of Holiday Cost
  Between 14 and 8 days of departure      |        75% of Holiday Cost
  Prior to 7 days from date of departure    |        100% of Holiday Cost
   
  Cancellation due to Covid related issue will be as per government guidelines. If airlines and countries are open for Tourism, then cancellation will be as per above.

 
A color brochure with pictures of attractions is available on request.  Please send an email to bhartirs@gmail.com

If you're interested, please contact Bharti Shah @ 856-278-4546

Bharti Shah & EC Team