Known for its sparkling fjords, majestic mountain ranges, and expansive forests, Norway’s awe-inspiring landscape beckons to nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. For me, it was love at first sight on my initial visit more than a decade ago. While the natural beauty lured me, the culture of this magical land enticed me even more.

Across the USA, residents look forward to the countdown to midnight on New Year's Eve. As the countdown ensues, a Waterford crystal ball drops from its perch in New York's Times Square to the delights of millions of onlookers in the street and millions more watching on television. The spectacular ball is a geodesic sphere covered with 2,688 crystal triangles and measuring 12 feet in diameter. It weighs 11,875 pounds and has more than 32,000 LED lights. Known worldwide, this beloved tradition dates back to 1907. Around the world, New Year's Eve traditions vary, and some provide interesting entertainment.

From 1854 onward, a yearly market shall be held in Røros, commencing the second to last Tuesday in the month of February and lasting until the following Friday,” declared the King of Norway. When the king speaks, Norwegians listen, and in February 1854, Rørosmartnan was born.

Viewing the Northern Lights is a magical experience that tops bucket lists everywhere. It beckons travelers worldwide to frosty destinations. From now until 2026, the aurora borealis activity is expected to reach its highest levels in 11 years. This uptick in solar activity makes the current era a particularly good time for aurora-viewing vacations. This winter, why not combine the experience of searching for this natural phenomenon with a cultural experience in your choice of winter wonderlands?

October brings us many things including colorful foliage, cooler temperatures and costumes in celebration of Halloween. While trick-or-treating has long been a tradition in the United States, the origins of Halloween lie in the ancient Celtic world.