ITINERARY NORWAY:

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A photography trip featuring Tromsø & the Lofoten Islands ..... port-‐side Aker Brygge—with its eclectic fusion
                                     

I T I N E R A R Y   NORWAY:     N O R T H E R N   L IG H TS   |   A R C TI C   L IF E   &   L A N D S C A PE S     A  photography  trip  featuring  Tromsø  &  the  Lofoten  Islands    

October  20-­‐29,  2018     October  20-­‐31,  2018  with  Oslo  extension  

 

Top:    Ersfjordbotn,  on  Kvaløya,  30  minutes  from  Tromsø    |    Bottom:  Church  on  island  of  Gimsøya,  Lofoten    |    both  ©  Temu  Nana  (tour  leader)    

 

OVERVIEW:      

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Overnight:  

October  20,  2018,  Saturday  

Depart  home  

October  21,  Sunday  

 

Arrive  TROMSØ,  Norway  |  1st  opportunity  to  see  the  lights  

Tromsø  

October  22,  Monday  

 

TROMSØ  &  environs  |  AURORA  (aka  OPEN  SKY)  HUNT*  

 

Tromsø  

October  23,  Tuesday  

 

TROMSØ  &  environs  |  AURORA  (aka  OPEN  SKY)  HUNT*  

 

Tromsø  

October  24,  Wednesday    

TROMSØ  &  environs  |  Mid-­‐PM  into  evening  outing  

 

M/V  Spitsbergen  

October  25,  Thursday    

SAILING  THE  NORTHERN  FJORDS  |  SVOLVÆR,  Lofotens    

Lofoten  Islands  (Svolvær)  

October  26,  Friday  

 

EXPLORING  THE  LOFOTEN  ISLANDS  

 

 

 

Lofoten  Islands  (Reine)  

October  27,  Saturday    

EXPLORING  THE  LOFOTEN  ISLANDS  

 

 

 

Lofoten  Islands  (Reine)  

October  28,  Sunday  

 

EXPLORING  THE  LOFOTEN  ISLANDS  

 

 

 

Lofoten  Islands  (Reine)  

October  29,  Monday  

 

Either  fly  back  home  from  Leknes  via  Oslo  or:  

     Optional  extension:  

 

Continue  to  OSLO  for  an  optional  extension  

 

 

Oslo  

October  30,  Sunday  

 

OSLO      

 

 

 

 

 

Oslo  

October  31,  Monday  

 

Fly  back  home  from  Oslo  

 

 

 

 

 

 

  *While   we’ll   have   the   opportunity   to   see   the   lights   on   every   night   of   the   trip,   on   October   22nd   and   23rd   we   are   prepared   to   travel   all   the   way   to   Finland   with   our   expert   local   partners   if   local   weather   conditions   in/around   Tromsø   are   not   ideal   for  viewing  the  lights.  They  are  experts  in  “light  chasing,”  with  extensive  experience  monitoring  local  weather  patterns   to  find  open  sky  to  see  the  lights.      

 

 

After  traveling  to  a  collective  150  countries  between  them,  Open  Sky’s  Alex  Ros  &  Temu  Nana  don’t  easily  impress.  But   Northern  Norway  has  blown  them  away.  The  landscape  is  stunning,  the  locals  remarkably  friendly  (living  an  exceptionally   advanced   life   in   harmony   with   nature   &   tradition   north   of   the   Arctic   Circle)…and   the   spectacle   in   the   sky   is   truly   jaw-­‐ dropping.  Two  scouting  trips,  a  co-­‐led  trip  with  friends  this  March  to  test  out  partners,  and  countless  hours  spent  over  a   year  in  development  have  resulted  in  this  now  refined  trip  design  combining  the  strategically-­‐located  Troms  region  with   the  stunning  Lofoten  Islands  via  a  deluxe  cruise  in  the  gorgeous  northern  fjords.       A  FEW  TRIP  HIGHLIGHTS     • Opportunities  on  four  nights  to  photograph  the  northern  lights  based  out  of  beautiful  Tromsø,  one  of  the  best   locations  on  the  planet  to  see  the  aurora.  *see  below  &  section  after  itinerary  “A  true  Open  Sky  Expedition”   • Several  days  exploring  the  incomparably  beautiful  Lofoten  Islands,  a  photographer’s  dream  (people  are  starting  to   notice…  this  is  the  time  to  go!),  with  their  breathtaking  vistas,  fishing  villages,  distinct  history  and  fantastic  setting   for  aurora  displays.     • Stays  at  deluxe  hotels—including  cozy  and  historic  fishermen’s  cabins  in  the  southern  Lofoten  Islands—and  a   relaxing  cruise  down  the  beautiful  northern  fjords  between  Tromsø  and  the  islands  aboard  the  state-­‐of-­‐the-­‐art  M/V   Nordkapp,  aptly  timed  halfway  through  the  trip.     • An  itinerary  specifically  designed  for  photographers,  molded  with  just  the  right  amount  of  flexibility,  paced  with   balance  in  mind  between  day  and  night,  and  for  the  experience  as  a  whole.     • Open  Sky’s  Temu  Nana,  now  a  night  photography  expert,  as  your  Tour  Leader,  and  a  world-­‐class  astrophotographer   as  our  main  guide  in  the  Lofoten  Islands.     • Dedicated  sessions  on  how  to  best  photograph  the  aurora,  plus  guidance  and  opportunities  to  post-­‐process  images.     • Pro  photographer  Jay  Seldin  as  your  host,  imparting  his  expertise  throughout  the  trip.     Location,  Location,  Location!  Set  above  the  Arctic  Circle,  Tromsø  lies  right   under   the   Auroral   Oval   (even   nights   with   KP   values   of   0   or   1   can   have   stunning  displays!)  yet  is  moderated  temperature-­‐wise  by  the  Gulf  Stream,   and  has  a  unique  strategic  location  that  allows  “light  chasers”  to  traverse   a  variety  of  local  microclimates  in  several  directions  to  find  open  sky.     Carefully  vetted  local  partners  are  experts  at  this,  prepared  to  take  us  all   the  way  to  Finland  for  the  nightly  spectacle  if  local  weather  is  not  ideal.                    

ITINERARY     Saturday,  October  20,  2018   Depart  Home     Sunday,  October  21   Oslo  |  TROMSØ,  Norway  |  First  opportunity  to  see  the  lights     Overview  

• Arrive  in  Oslo  and  connect  up  to  Tromsø   • Transfer  to  the  hotel,  settle  in   • Evening  outing  within  an  hour’s  drive  if  lights  are  out  

After  arriving  in  Oslo,  take  a  short  connecting  flight  up  to  Tromsø,  north  of  the  Arctic  Circle.  From  the  airport,  transfer  to   our  ideally  located  waterside  hotel  in  the  center  of  the  walkable  core  of  the  city,  and  enjoy  the  balance  of  the  afternoon   at  leisure.  We  plan  to  take  advantage  of  every  opportunity  to  see  and  photograph  the  lights,  so  be  ready  to  head  out  this   evening   if   the   local   weather   is   favorable!   Keeping   in   mind   most   will   have   traveled   a   long   way,   we’ll   keep   the   target   area   relatively  local  so  that  we  don’t  stay  out  too  late––but  if  the  lights  are  out,  we  have  no  doubt  excitement  will  propel  you   for  a  first  encounter.     Overnight  at  Clarion  The  Edge  in  Tromsø     Monday,  October  22     TROMSØ  and  environs  |  AURORA  HUNT  a.k.a.  a  true  OPEN  SKY  EXPEDITION  1.0   Overview  

• Tour  of  Tromsø  and  nearby  highlights     • Tutorial  on  photographing  the  lights     • A  determined  Aurora  Hunt  tonight,  radius  expanded  all  the  way  to  Finland  

The  final  order  and  timing  of  our  sightseeing  on  this  trip  will  remain  necessarily  flexible  to  the  main  attraction:  the  lights   at  night,  and  specifically  how  late  we  stay  out  each  night.  This  will  in  particular  influence  our  start  times  each  so  we  can   find  a  healthy  balance  of  sleep  and  activity.     Today,  having  kept  it  relatively  local  last  night,  we’ll  plan  to  head  out  not  too  long  after  the  wonderful  breakfast  spread   at  the  hotel.  Our  main  daytime  activity  will  be  a  guided  visit  to  the  city  of  Tromsø,  itself  fascinating,  beautifully  set,  and   remarkably  developed  for  what  elsewhere  would  simply  be  an  outpost  this  far  north.  While  our  flexible  approach  will   cater  to  our  group’s  particular  interests,  we’ll  plan  to  include  a  walk  in  the  attractive  central  district  near  our  hotel,  a   visit   to   the   stunning   Arctic   Cathedral   across   the   fjord,   the   Northern   Norway   Science   Center   with   its   excellent   presentation  on  the  lights,  and  an  opportunity  in  the  area  to  learn  and  interface  with  local  Sami  culture.     After  some  time  at  leisure,  convene  again  in  the  late  afternoon  prior  for  a  dedicated  tutorial  on  how  to  best  photograph   the  lights.  Then,  as  day  turns  to  night,  come  prepared  for  a  special  night  out,  heading  out  of  Tromsø  with  truly  expert   local   partners   on   a   well-­‐resourced   “aurora   hunt.”   Weather   conditions   will   greatly   influence   our   route...   If   skies   are   open   locally,   we’ll   have   a   plethora   of   striking   locations   relatively   nearby   to   choose.   If   they   are   not,   Tromsø’s   strategic   location   and   the   region’s   excellent   road   network   will   come   into   play,   as   we   may   find   ourselves   traveling   all   the   way   to   Finland   to   find  open  sky!    [See  box  after  bios  entitled  “A  true  Open  Sky  Expedition”]    Our  guides  will  know  exactly  where  to  take  us,   and  will  even  come  prepared  with  additional  cold-­‐weather  gear  should  we  venture  far  inland  where  temperatures  can   feel  more  latitude-­‐appropriate.  Either  way,  a  light  dinner  will  be  served  at  some  point  on  our  night  out,  likely  around  a   campfire  if  conditions  allow  it.  It  promises  to  be  an  unforgettable  evening  in  the  Arctic.     Overnight  at  Clarion  The  Edge  in  Tromsø  (B,  D)     Tuesday,  October  23  

TROMSØ  and  environs  |  AURORA  HUNT  a.k.a.  a  true  OPEN  SKY  EXPEDITION  2.0   Overview  

• Flexible  daytime,  options  offered     • A  second  determined  Aurora  Hunt  tonight,  radius  again  expanded  all  the  way  to  Finland.  

As   the   previous   night   may   go   particularly   late   if   we   venture   out   to   Finland,   today’s   approach   for   daytime   is   intentionally   more  leisurely.  Enjoy  the  balance  of  the  day  to  rest,  go  through  photos,  explore  Tromsø  independently,  or  even  consider   an   optional   outing   in   the   vicinity   we   could   facilitate   on   your   behalf   (such   as   a   visit   to   a   traditional   sauna,   or   an   opportunity  to  visit  reindeer  herders,  or  try  out  dog-­‐sledding).  Time  and  interest  permitting,  another  informal  workshop   on  photographing  the  lights  may  be  organized.  Either  way,  tonight,  we’ll  set  out  on  a  second  special  night  of  chasing  the   lights  –  with  a  target  radius  that  again  could  bring  us  to  Finland  if  the  conditions  warrant  it.     Overnight  at  Clarion  The  Edge  in  Tromsø  (B,  D)       Wednesday,  October  24   TROMSØ  and  environs  |  ARCTIC  LANDSCAPES,  DAY  into  NIGHT  |  Late  night  embarkation       Overview  

• Morning  at  leisure     • Arctic  Landscapes  excursion,  from  afternoon  into  night,  with  possibility  of  lights     • Late  night  embarkation  on  M/V  Nordkapp  

Enjoy   a   final   morning   of   rest   and   relaxation   in   Tromsø.   After   a   late   checkout,   those   interested   can   join   us   at   a   local   restaurant  for  lunch  (facilitated,  but  not  pre-­‐included  if  a  late  night  prompted  a  late  breakfast).     This   afternoon   we’ll   depart   on   our   main   outing   earlier   than   on   previous   days,   for   an   excursion   that   will   specifically   combine  day  and  night,  allowing  us  explore  and  photograph  the  striking  Arctic  landscapes  of  the  region  in  daylight,  and   weather  permitting,  the  glorious  transition  of  late  afternoon  light  into  twilight,  elongated  and  of  a  particular  character  in   these  northern  latitudes.  If  our  prior  night  aurora  hunts  had  us  mostly  chasing  open  sky  towards  the  east,  we’ll  focus   west  on  the  island  of  Kvaløya;  otherwise  we’ll  head  east  towards  the  Lyngen  Alps.  Either  way,  we’ll  enjoy  multiple  photo   stops,  plan  for  a  light  nature  walk  or  two,  and  hope  to  encounter  some  local  wildlife  along  the  way.  After  dinner  at  a   local   restaurant,   we’ll   check   the   skies   and   our   energy   levels   for   another   shot   at   the   lights.   There   is   a   time   limit   as   we   must  be  back  in  Tromsø  in  time  for  embarkation  around  midnight  onto  the  M/V  Spitsbergen,  our  relaxing  ride  down  to   the  next  stage  of  the  journey.     Overnight  onboard  the  M/V  Spitsbergen  (B,  D)     Thursday,  October  25   SAILING  THE  NORTHERN  FJORDS  |  SVOLVÆR,  Lofoten  Islands  |  Possible  lights  by  night       Overview  

• Leisurely  day  sailing  beautiful  northern  fjords  en  route  to  Lofoten  Islands       • 6:30pm  arrival  to  Svolvær,  check-­‐in  to  hotel  a  short  walk  from  the  pier   • First  outing,  weather  permitting,  to  photograph  lights  on  the  Islands  

Enjoy   a   relaxing   day   navigating   the   beautiful   northern   fjords   en   route   to   the   Lofoten   Islands.   Aside   from   simply   enjoying   and   photographing   the   fantastic   scenery   (the   ship   has   several   wonderful   lounges   with   large   windows   and   public   deck   spaces  from  which  to  take  it  all  in),  spend  some  time  going  through  your  photos,  or  simply  relax  and  enjoy  a  change  of   pace,   well-­‐timed,   in   the   middle   of   the   trip.   We’ve   included   the   excellent   buffet   lunch   served   onboard,   and   you’ll   also   have  the  opportunity  for  a  short  walk  in  the  charming  ports  the  ship  will  stop  in  during  the  day  (stops  of  a  half  hour  or   longer  include  Harstad,  Sortland  &  Stokmarkness).  In  the  late  afternoon,  if  conditions  permit,  the  ship  will  navigate  to  an   impressive  narrow  fjord  as  we  near  the  Lofoten  Islands.     We  are  scheduled  to  arrive  at  6:30pm  to  Svolvær,  the  lovely  capital  of  the  Lofoten  Islands,  where  we’ll  disembark  and   transfer  to  our  stylish  hotel  for  the  night,  the  Thon  Hotel  Lofotens,  conveniently  located  within  walking  distance  of  the  

pier.  Enjoy  the  remainder  of  the  evening  at  leisure  in  the  charming  downtown,  or  if  the  weather  cooperates  and  you’re   up  for  it,  join  us  on  a  first  ride  out  to  photograph  the  lights  on  the  Islands,  together  with  an  expert  astrophotographer   who  will  be  with  us  for  the  next  few  days.  We’ll  have  a  number  of  excellent  locations  to  choose  from  nearby  (such  as  the   church  on  the  front  cover,  on  the  neighboring  island  of  Gimsøya).     Overnight  at  the  Thon  Hotel  Lofotens  in  Svolvær  (B,  L)     Friday,  October  26   LOFOTEN  ISLANDS:  SVOLVÆR  |  HENNINGSVÆR  |  LOFOTR  VIKING  MUSEUM  |  LEKNES  |  REINE  |  Possible  lights  by  night       Overview  

• Day  tour  down  four  of  the  Lofoten  Islands  (from  Austvågøya  to  Moskensøya),  including  Henningsvær  (the   “Venice  of  Lofoten”),  the  excellent  Lofotr  Viking  Museum,  a  delicious  seafood  lunch  in  Leknes,  etc.   • Late  afternoon  arrival  to  amazingly  beautiful  Reine,  our  home  for  the  next  three  nights     • Weather-­‐permitting  night  outing  for  the  lights  

Check  out  of  the  hotel  after  breakfast  this  morning,  and  enjoy  a  lovely  day  exploring  north  to  south  between  Svolvær   and   Reine,   with   as   many   photo   stops   as   we   deem   fitting   en   route.   Our   plan   is   flexible,   but   highlights   along   the   way   include   the   picturesque   fishing   village   of   Henningsvær—sometimes   referred   to   as   the   “Venice   of   Lofoten”—with   its   colorful   harbor-­‐side   buildings   set   before   the   steep   mountain   backdrop   of   Austvågøya,   the   excellent   Lofotr   Viking   Museum  with  its  marvelous  reconstruction  of  the  largest  Viking  building  found  in  Scandinavia  adjacent  to  the  site,  and  a   delightful  seafood  lunch  at  a  cozy  restaurant  in  the  village  of  Leknes.  If  it  is  open,  we  may  also  make  a  stop  at  a  cheese   farm  (our  astrophotographer  guide  is  close  to  the  owner)  for  a  tasting.     Later  in  the  day,  arrive  in  glorious  Reine,  crowning  jewel  of  the  Islands  in  the  eyes  of  many,  and  our  breathtakingly  set   home   for   the   next   three   nights.   Settle   into   our   delightful   hotel,   Reine   Rorbeur,   where   bright-­‐red-­‐painted   fishermen’s   cabins   have   been   turned   into   cozy   cottages   (we   have   selected   some   of   the   best   for   our   group).   Tonight   we’ll   again   have   the  option  to  go  out  for  the  northern  lights,  with  some  awesome  backdrops  just  minutes  away.     Overnight  at  Reine  Rorbuer  in  Reine  (B,  L)     Saturday,  October  27  &  Sunday,  October  28   LOFOTEN  ISLANDS:  EXPLORING  OUT  OF  REINE  |  BEACHES  &  BEYOND  |  Possible  lights  by  night       Overview  

• Two   full   days   exploring   based   out   of   Reine   with   our   expert   local   photographer,   on   a   flexible   schedule   responsive  to  weather/light  conditions,  group  interests,  pace  of  trip  thus  far.     • Highlights:  Countless  breathtaking  vistas  in  Reine,  neighboring  villages,  and  stunningly-­‐set  island  beaches.     • Weather-­‐permitting  night  outings  for  the  lights,  and  a  special  final  dinner    

We’ve   allotted   two   full   final   days   to   explore   and   photograph   the   majesty   of   the   Lofoten   Islands   based   out   of   the   beautiful  village  of  Reine.  Our  final  proposed  schedule  will  remain  flexible  to  short-­‐term  weather  forecasts  and  a  read  of   the   group,   with   countless   options   available   within   striking   distance.   Even   just   minutes   away,   fantastic   vantage   points   abound  over  the  villages  of  Reine  and  neighboring  Hamnoy,  photo-­‐worthy  in  various  weather  conditions  and  angles  of   light.   Further   out,   inspiring   vistas   and   in   particular   a   host   of   scenic   beaches   call   us   forth,   with   raw   beauty,   distinct   moods,  reflections,  and  even  as  spectacular  settings  for  the  aurora  at  night,  which  we’ll  have  a  final  two  nights  to  marvel   at  and  photograph.  With  two  private  vehicles  at  out  disposal  on  the  islands,  we’ll  have  additional  flexibility  to  cater  to   different  energy  and  interest  levels  at  this  juncture  of  the  trip.  A  balance  of  activity  and  enjoyment  of  our  cozy  hotel  will   be  factored  in,  where  we  should  also  have  time  to  process  images  and  learn  from  our  local  photography  partners.     Enjoy   a   final   dinner   together   tonight   either   in   the   delightful   ambiance   of   the   hotel’s   restaurant   OR   if   weather-­‐wise   it   turns  out  one  of  the  best  nights,  while  on  a  final  night  outing  to  marvel  at  and  photograph  the  lights.     Overnight  at  Reine  Rorbuer  in  Reine  (Bx2,  Dx2)    

Monday,  October  29   Reine  |  Fly  out  from  Leknes     Transfer  to  the  airport  in  Leknes  in  time  for  outbound  flights.   (B)     OPTIONAL  TWO-­‐NIGHT  EXTENSION:   Alternate  for  Monday,  October  29   Reine  |  Leknes  |  OSLO   Overview  

• After  a  leisurely  morning,  fly  from  Leknes  direct  to  Oslo   • Take  the  express  train  the  airport  to  the  city  center,  check-­‐in  to  hotel  steps  from  main  station     • Informal  dusk  or  evening  photo  walk  with  Jay  &  Temu  

Transfer  to  Leknes  airport  in  time  for  a  direct  early  afternoon  flight  to  Oslo.  On  arrival,  take  the  convenient   express  train   direct  from  the  airport  into  downtown  (often  twice  as  fast  as  a  vehicle),  checking  in  to  our  centrally  located  hotel  just   steps  away  from  main  train  station.  The  rest  of  the  day  is  officially  at  leisure,  but  those  interested  can  join  Jay  &  Temu   for  a  walk  around  dusk  and  into  the  early  evening.       Overnight  at  Thon  Hotel  Opera  in  Oslo  (B)     Tuesday,  October  30     OSLO   Overview  

• Enjoy  a  day  of  sightseeing  in  Oslo  together  with  a  local  photographer-­‐guide.     • Visit  the  downtown  area,  Aker  Brygge  &  Grünnerløkka   • Time  at  leisure  to  explore  independently  

Spend   the   balance   of   the   day   visiting   and   photographing   downtown   Oslo   on   foot,   including   the   stately   Sentrum   area,   port-­‐side   Aker   Brygge—with   its   eclectic   fusion   of   industrial   and   modern   architecture—and   hip   Grünnerløkka,   replete   with  cozy  bars  and  restaurants.    We’ll  have  a  local  photographer-­‐guide  to  show  us  around,  as  well  as  time  at  leisure  to   explore  on  our  own.     Overnight  at  Thon  Hotel  Opera  in  Oslo  (B)     Wednesday,  October  31   OSLO  |  Fly  home   Transfer  back  to  the  Oslo  airport  via  express  train.      (B)  

TOUR  LEADERS    

PRO  PHOTOGRAPHER  HOST   Jay   Seldin  is  a  teacher,  photographer,  adventurer,  author  and  world  citizen.  He  has  spent  the   better  half  of  his  life  in  the  classroom  as  an  educator  in  art,  photography,  photojournalism  and   digital   design—as   well   as   now   over   a   decade   taking   amateur   and   professional   photographers   alike  to  exotic  locales  around  the  globe.  Composition,  use  of  natural  light,  self-­‐expression  and   story-­‐telling   are   primary   in   his   photography.   Jay   has   exhibited   globally,   holds   several   degrees   including   a   Masters   in   Visual   Art   &   Photography,   is   sponsored   by   Canon   digital   papers   as   an   “Ambassador   in   Photography,”   and   his   work   has   been   collected   by   major   corporations   &   museums.   Beyond   such   credentials,   he   is   more   importantly   a   true   artist   and   a   natural   host   who   will  joyfully  impart  his  knowledge  and  enthusiastically  experience  Norway’s  wonders  with  you.       PHOTOGRAPHER-­‐TRIP  DIRECTOR     Temu   Nana   is   the   son   of   an   international   airline   pilot,   hailing   largely   from   Michigan   but   with   roots   in   Canada   &   Pakistan.   He   brings   a   rare   set   of   skills   to   a   photography   tour,   combining   extensive  professional  tour  leading/logistics  experience  with  a  knack  for  making  people  feel  at   ease   and   well-­‐developed   talent   as   a   photographer—in   particular   with   night   photography,   a   specialty  he  has  been  honing  in  on  over  the  last  several  years  traveling  the  globe  and  leading   photography  tours.  Temu  played  a  crucial  role  in  developing  this  trip  together  with  OSE  owner   Alex  Ros,  including  two  rounds  of  scouting  starting  over  a  year  ago,  and  a  co-­‐led  first  trip  this   spring.  He  is  especially  looking  forward  to  that  first  moment  you  gaze  up,  mouth  wide  open,  in   awe  of  the  aurora.      

 

LOCAL  EXPERTS/GUIDES   In/around   Tromsø,  we’ll  have  several  excellent  local  guides  with  expertise  that  best  corresponds  to  the  particular  outing   we’re  on.  In  some  cases,  driver-­‐guides  will  work  together  with  Temu.  In  others,  additional  experts  will  join  us,  such  as  for   the  city  tour,  or  for  the  big  aurora  hunts.  On  the  latter  we  have  ensured  our  guides  are  also  experts  in  photographing  the   aurora  (a  few  are  Nat  Geo  published  for  their  work).       (see  box  next  page  “A  True  Open  Sky  Expedition”  for  some  notes  on  guide  selection  in  Tromsø)   In   the   Lofoten   Islands,  we  are  delighted  to  be  joined  by  Alex   Conu,  a  professional  photographer   with   an   impressive   resume   who   recently   completed   a   four-­‐year   project   to   photograph   the   islands   on   invitation   by   local   tourism   authorities.   Originally   from   Romania   and   educated   as   an   astrophysicist,   Alex   pivoted   career   paths   in   his   20’s   to   pursue   his   passion   of   photography,   making  a  name  for  himself  in  the  fashion  industry  and  as  an  acclaimed  astrophotographer.  A  key   member  of  TWAN  (The  World  At  Night),  and  the  winner  of  The  International  Earth  &  Sky  Contest   in   2016   amongst   numerous   accolades,   his   night   sky   photos   have   been   published   in   many   magazines—National  Geographic,  Sky  and  Telescope,  The  Sky  at  Night,  to  name  a  few—as  well   as  leading  astronomy  websites  such  as  NASA’s  APOD,  spaceweather.com,  and  USRA’s  EPOD.  Via   his   time   based   out   of   Reine   from   2013   to   2017,   dedicated   to   photographing   the   islands,   Alex   knows  the  archipelago  like  the  back  of  his  hand,  an  asset  he  began  sharing  with  photographers   visiting  the  islands  a  few  years  back.  As  an  astrophysicist,  Alex  looks  forward  to  sharing  with  us   his  deep  understanding  of  the  astronomical  phenomena  he  photographs.     (see  some  of  Alex’s  photography  on  the  next  page)

                       From  Alex  Conu’s  Instagram,  @alexconu|  Djupford  &  Selection  from  2017    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                       

           Temu  (left)  and  Alex  Conu  (right)  in  Gimsøya,  March  ‘18                                        Taken  by  OSE’s  Alex  Ros  while  refining  itinerary  

    A  TRUE  OPEN  SKY  EXPEDITION…WITH  TOP  LOCAL  EXPERTS  |  OUR  MISSION  FOR  OCTOBER  22  &  23   The  Troms  region’s  location  smack  in  the  center  of  the  auroral  oval  makes  it  less  an  issue  of  whether  the  lights  will  be   overhead  (while  never  a  guarantee,  it’s  just  about  as  close  as  you  can  get  to  it)  but  whether  clouds  will  get  in  the  way  of   the  view.  Thus,  in  essence,  an  aurora  hunt  becomes  mostly  an  expedition  to  find   open   sky….  something  we  of  course   find  exciting  and  meant-­‐to-­‐be….     Unlike   Iceland,   an   island   with   a   road   network   mostly   near   the   ocean-­‐weather-­‐influenced   coast   (not   to   mention   lower   latitude   requiring   slightly   higher   KP   values),   or   even   the   beautiful   Lofoten   Islands   and   their   limited   weather-­‐escaping   options…   Tromsø   has   the   unique   benefit   of   being   not   only   easy   to   get   to,   but   also   of   an   excellent   road   network   that   sprouts   out   through   stunning   scenery   in  all  different  directions—and  in  particular  to  the  east,  deep  inland,  towards  and   into  Finland,  where  the  effects  of  ocean-­‐influenced  climate  or  even  larger  weather  systems  may  be  possible  to  escape.     In  turn,  a  booming  industry  has  been  born  in  Tromsø,  the  newfound  capital  of  “aurora  hunting.”  We  carefully  researched   and  then  tried  out  a  number  of  top-­‐rated  potential  partners,  asking  ourselves:  Were  they  actually  equipped  to  carefully   monitor   the   weather   and   microclimates…   in   essence,   to   help   us   find   open   sky?   Were   the   guides   truly   excellent,   and   importantly,  skilled  photographers  themselves?  Would  they  be  a  fit  for  and  responsive  to  a  private  group  on  a  multi-­‐ day  trip  also  including  another  destination,  with  its  particular  interests  and  needs?  How  thoughtful  and  well  equipped   were  they  to  provide  maximum  comfort  during  a  potentially  long  night  in  cold  weather?  Etc.  Etc.   We  have  to  tell  you...we  could  not  more  pleased  with  our  findings  and  decision.  Our  partners’  tell  us  they  have  a  95%   nightly  success  rate  in  finding  open  sky  for  the  lights,  and  we  now  really  do  believe  them.  Moreover,  delivered  in  style,   comfort,  enthusiasm,  and  with  true  professionalism  –  everything  we  hoped  to  find.          

ACCOMMODATIONS     Hotels  were  chosen  strategically  for  top  comfort,  location  and  compatibility  with  the  itinerary.  The  M/V  Spitsbergen  is   also  one  of  the  newer  Hurtigruten  ships  sailing  between  Tromsø  and  the  Lofoten  Islands.          

TOUR  RATE     Main  trip  ending  on  October  29  in  Leknes:  

 

COST:  $6,590  per  person  double  occupancy  |  Add  for  a  single  supplement:  +$700   If  you  would  like  to  join  us  for  a  two  night  Oslo  extension  ending  on  October  31:  

 

Add  $400  per  person  double  occupancy  |  For  a  single  supplement  add  an  additional  $250  to  the  cost   Rates  apply  with  10  travelers  participating  on  the  main  trip.  Trip  is  limited  to  12  participants.     Small  group  supplement:  an  extra  $250  for  every  traveler  under  10,  with  a  minimum  of  8  participants.1       MAIN  TRIP  INCLUSIONS:   • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Full  program  of  activities  and  outings  detailed  in  the  itinerary—including  opportunities  to  see  and  photograph   the  aurora  every  night  of  the  trip.     Expert  local  guides  with  extensive  experience  chasing  and  photographing  the  lights  (including  an  acclaimed  night   sky  expert  photographer  in  the  Lofoten  Islands).     Instruction  on  how  to  best  capture  the  lights  under  various  conditions,  as  well  as  post-­‐processing  images.   Private  vehicle/s  throughout  the  trip,  with  water  bottles  provided  onboard.       Transfers  on  arrival  and  departure.   For  two  outings  from  Tromsø  that  could  take  us  to  colder  and  snowier  Finland  to  find  open  sky:  ample   equipment  including  Arctic  suits  for  warmth,  warm  boots,  extra  tripods,  and  more.   Entrance  fees  to  venues  listed  in  the  itinerary.   Hotels  as  listed  in  this  document.   An  outside-­‐facing  cabin  on  the  M/V  Spitsbergen  sailing  from  Tromsø  to  Svolvær.2   All  meals  listed  in  this  document.     A  Destination  and  Travel  Information  Packet  to  assist  with  pre-­‐departure  planning.   Open  Sky  Expeditions  Tour  Leader  and  Photographer  Temu  Nana  as  your  host  throughout     A  complimentary  travel  notebook  for  each  traveler  (or  alternative  gift  for  past  travelers).   Gratuities  to  all  guides,  drivers,  and  wait  staff  for  group  meals.  

NOT  INCLUDED:   • • • • •

International  airfare,  to  Tromsø/from  Leknes  (see  next  page  for  sample  routes  and  costs;  a  recommended  round-­‐ trip  itinerary  out  of  Newark/EWR  is  pricing  in  the  $900’s,  as  of  April  28)           Tourist  entry  visas,  reciprocity  fees,  passport  fees,  and  photos  if  required.   Medical,  accident,  baggage  or  cancellation  insurance.   Personal  items  and  other  expenses  not  specifically  mentioned  as  included.     Alcoholic  beverages.  

OSLO  EXTENSION  ADDITIONAL  INCLUSIONS:  Activities,  hotels,  transfers,  and  meals  as  described  in  the  itinerary.  Jay   Seldin  will  stay  with  the  group  throughout.  Temu  Nana  will  be  with  the  group  for  the  first  night  in  Oslo,  and  a  local   expert  photographer  guide  will  join  the  following  day.                                                                                                                                         1  The  trip  can  still  run  with  6  or  7  participants,  with  slight  adjustments  we  would  brief  signed-­‐up  travelers  on  if  we  have  not  reached   8  travelers  by  August  2018.     2  Hurtigruten,  the  company  that  owns  the  ships  on  this  route,  changed  their  booking  procedures  for  groups  halfway  through  our   planning  and  we  can  no  longer  technically  hold  group  space  on  the  departure.  We  have  been  monitoring  availability  carefully,   though,  and  as  of  April  28  there  is  plenty  of  space.  However,  we  will  make  the  official  bookings  only  once  we  receive  deposits.  Our   intention  is  to  book  everyone  an  Arctic  Superior  cabin,  but  this  may  be  subject  to  availability.    

HOW  TO  BOOK   Please  email  Open  Sky  Expeditions  at  [email protected]  or  call  us  at  212.441.0024.     We  will  confirm  availability  and  direct  to  you  a  Registration  Form  you  can  submit  along  with  a  $900  per  person  deposit.     You  may  also  contact  Jay  Seldin  directly  at  [email protected].       SAMPLE  FLIGHTS       Our  recommendation   To/from  New  York  (Newark/EWR)  and  staying  for  the  2-­‐night  Oslo  extension   Main  carrier  (both  international  legs  plus  Oslo-­‐Tromso):    

SAS,  excellent  Swedish  airline  and  partner  of  United  

Domestic  on  return  (Leknes  to  Oslo  on  October  29):    

Widerøe,  a  subsidiary  of  SAS  

 

Oct  20  SK  908  EWR-­‐OSL  6:55pm-­‐8:20am  connecting  to  Oct  21  SK  4412  OSL-­‐TOS  11:35am-­‐1:25pm   Oct  29  WF  801  LKN-­‐OSL  1:35pm-­‐3:50pm  

 

Oct  31  SK  907  OSL-­‐EWR  11:10am-­‐1:15pm  

 

 

 

Online  quote  as  of  April  28  (subject  to  change):         $854  for  the  SAS  portion                     $126  for  the  Widerøe  domestic  leg     An  alternate  also  with  SAS/Widerøe  a  day  earlier     If  someone  likes  the  above  flights  but  would  prefer  to  fly  home  the  day  before  (same  return  flight  on  October  30),  is   actually  pricing  even  less  expensive  as  of  April  28:     $808  for  the  SAS  portion                     And  same  Widerøe  leg/cost  as  above   If  you  did  this,  you  would  essentially  just  do  part  of  the  optional  extension,  exploring  Oslo  only  by  dusk/evening  on   October  29  (this  would  lower  the  cost  of  the  extension  by  $170  per  person).     For  the  main  trip-­‐only  dates   Catching  that  same  late  morning  SAS  return  flight  on  October  29th  (for  an  SAS  portion  of  $804,  as  of  April  28)  would   require  spending  the  last  night  elsewhere,  which  we  would  easily  facilitate.  See  details  in  footnote  if  interested.3     Alternatively,  you  could  instead  fly  Norweigan  transatlantic  round-­‐trip  New  York/JFK.  Together  with  an  earlier  flight  out   of  LKN  via  BOO  on  the  29th,  the  total  cost  is  similar  to  above  examples  when  you  include  checked  luggage  (which   Norweigan  generally  does  not  on  their  base  fares).       We  are  happy  to  assist  in  investigating  options.     Note:  The  above  examples  are  with  New  York  as  a  base  or  entry  point  to  the  U.S.  There  are  alternatives.  For  example  on   October  29,  Norweigan  has  a  direct  flight  from  OSL  to  FLL/Fort  Lauderdale  (as  of  April  28,  as  low  as  $220  one  way,  or   $310  with  checked  luggage).  Oslo  also  has  convenient  connection,  of  course,  to  various  airports  in  Europe.                                                                                                                                           3  If  you  want  to  catch  the  late  morning  SAS  direct  flight  from  OSL  to  EWR  on  October  29,  we  would  drive  you  to  the  Leknes  airport  on   th the  night  of  the  28  for  an  evening  flight  to  nearby  Bodø  (on  Widerøe  LKN-­‐OSL  either  8pm-­‐8:25pm  or  10:15pm-­‐10:40pm,  as  of  April   28  both  only  $53)  and  you  could  spend  that  night  at  a  nearby  hotel  we  have  already  vetted:  the  Scandic  Havet  (we  would  simply   swap  out  your  last  night  to  there).  Then  you’d  take  an  early  morning  flight  to  OSL  (for  example,  SK  4105  BOO-­‐OSL  7:05am-­‐8:40am,   pricing  at  $101  as  of  April  28)  in  order  to  make  the  connection.      

GENERAL  INFORMATION   Responsibility:   Open   Sky   Expeditions   acts   only   as   an   agent   for   the   independent   suppliers   that   provide   hotel   accommodations,   transportation,   sightseeing,   activities,   and   other   services   connected   with   this   tour.   Said   services   are   subject   to   the   terms   and   conditions   of   the   respective   provider.   Open   Sky   Expeditions   and   its   employees,   agents,   representatives,  and  assignees  accept  no  liability  whatsoever  for  any  injury,  damage,  loss,  accident,  delay,  or  any  other   occurrence  that  might  result  from  the  negligence,  defect,  error  or  default  of  any  company  or  person  in  the  performance   of  said  services.  Responsibility  is  not  accepted  for  losses,  injury,  damages,  cancellations,  or  expenses  of  any  kind  due  to   sickness,   weather,   strikes,   hostilities,   wars,   terrorist   acts,   acts   of   nature,   local   laws,   or   other   situations   of   force   majeure.     All   services   and   accommodations   are   subject   to   the   laws   and   regulations   of   the   country   in   which   they   are   provided.   Open  Sky  Expeditions  is  not  responsible  for  any  baggage  or  personal  effects  of  any  individual  participating  in  any  of  the   tours   and   activities   arranged   by   Open   Sky   Expeditions.   All   travelers   are   responsible   for   purchasing   their   respective   insurance  policy(ies)  to  cover  expenses  and  handle  emergencies  associated  with  the  loss  of  luggage,  personal  effects  and   any  other  insurable  losses  associated  with  their  trip.   Payment   Schedule:   A   deposit   of   $900   per   person   is   required   to   reserve   a   space   on   this   trip,   payable   via   credit   card,   check  or  bank  transfer.  Final  payment  is  due  60  days  before  departure.  Credit   cards   are   generally   not   accepted   for   final   payment,  unless  travelers  would  like  to  cover  associated  transaction  fees  at  a  3%  surcharge.             Cancellation   Policy:   All   cancellations   of   confirmed   reservations   are   subject   to   a   $250   per   person   administrative   fee.   Additionally,  travelers  are  subject  to  any  cancellation  fees  assessed  by  the  purveyors  of  services,  including  airlines  and   hotels  used  in  the  itinerary.  Cancellations  received  61-­‐90  days  of  departure  will  be  assessed  a  penalty  of  25%  of  the  total   program   cost   per   person.   Cancellations   received   within   46-­‐60   days   will   be   penalized   50%   of   the   program   cost.     Cancellations  received  within  31-­‐45  days  will  be  penalized  75%  of  the  program  cost.    Cancellations  received  within  30   days  of  departure  will  be  assessed  a  penalty  of  100%  of  the  total  program  cost.    All  requests  for  cancellations  must  be   made  in  writing.  These  cancellation  policies  apply  in  every  instance  and  no  exceptions  will  be  made.               Refunds:  Leaving  a  trip  in  progress  for  any  reason  whatsoever  will  not  result  in  a  refund.  No  refunds  will  be  made  for  any   part   of   this   program   in   which   you   choose   to   not   participate,   including   but   not   limited   to   hotels   stays,   air   or   land   transportation,  meals,  tours  or  other  sightseeing  arrangements.       Insurance:  Travelers  with  Open  Sky  Expeditions  must  carry  overseas  medical  insurance  that  includes  emergency  medical   evacuation  coverage.  We  strongly  recommend  purchase  of  a  comprehensive  policy  that  also  includes  trip  cancellation   insurance  covering  illness  or  accident  both  prior  and  during  the  program  as  well  as  coverage  for  baggage  loss  or  delay.   Details  on  all  of  these  insurance  options  will  be  sent  to  you  with  your  pre-­‐departure  information  materials.  Please  take   extra  care  reading  the  section  on  insurance  and  as  well  as  all  third  party  insurance  materials.   Itinerary:  The  itinerary,  accommodations,  and  arrangements  are  subject  to  change  or  modification  at  the  discretion  of   Open  Sky  Expeditions.  Every  reasonable  effort  will  be  made  to  operate  the  program  as  planned,  but  changes  may  still   occur  after  the  final  itinerary  is  sent  to  you.  By  booking  a  reservation  with  Open  Sky  Expeditions,  travelers  understand   that   amenities,   types   of   transport,   routes,   schedules,   and   itineraries   may   change   without   prior   notice   due   to   circumstances  or  events  in  the  location  due  to,  but  not  limited  to,  mechanical  breakdowns,  flight  cancellations,  illness,   strikes,  weather,  political  disputes,  border  crossing  problems  and  other  unforeseen  factors.   Rates:  Open  Sky  Expeditions  will  do  everything  possible  to  preserve  the  prices  listed  in  the  original  marketing  materials   you  receive.  However,  between  the  dates  these  prices  are  published  and  the  trip’s  actual  departure  date,  unforeseen   and   exceptional   cost   increases   may   occur   due   to   currency   fluctuations,   taxes,   airfare   and   transport   cost   increases,   or   others   that   may   force   Open   Sky   Expeditions   to   assess   a   surcharge.   If   that   unusual   occurrence   were   to   take   place,   the   assessed  surcharge  will  reflect  only  the  specific  cost  increase.  If  the  increase  were  to  exceed  10%  of  the  original  cost  of   the  tour,  you  may  cancel  within  10  days  of  receiving  said  notification  and  obtain  a  full  refund.    

  344  GROVE  STREET,  SUITE  18   JERSEY  CITY,  NJ  07302   WWW.OPENSKYEXPEDITIONS.COM  

NORWAY:  Northern  Lights,  JS  |  (Full)  Version  1.1   Tour  Code:  NOR1810Q   Updated  by  AJR:  May  5,  2018     PDF  content  ©  2018  Open  Sky  Expeditions