scandinavian american travel

2024 - 34 th ANNUAL SUMMER EXPERIENCE TO NORWAY / ICELAND

The borders of Norway and Iceland have lifted their travel restrictions due to COVID-19. These restrictions may change and new protocols may be required at any time during our travels.

A TRAVELEX travel insurance plan can provide coverage for Trip Cancellation & Interruption and Trip Delay. I would encourage you to consider insurance options.

SUMMER DATES FOR OUR 14 - DAY “YOUR WAY - IN NORWAY AND ICELAND” EXPERIENCE: June 26 - July 10, 2024

“a truly different experience, your way - in norway and exciting iceland”.

Thank you for your interest in our Norway and Iceland Tour. Our Annual Summer experience is different and unique for individuals who like to be out-of-doors and enjoy fantastic scenery. This is for the nontraditional traveler who wants a spectacular country vacation; touring, walking/hiking/cruise/bus/train and photography adventure in fjord and volcanic lava country. It will be your choice, “YOUR WAY - IN NORWAY AND ICELAND”! The following is a brief overview of some things you need to know prior to trip enrollment.

This is your invitation to join our “Touring, Walking, Hiking, Photography, and Cruise Experience in the Fjords and the volcanic lava country.”

• See the Scandinavian and Iceland countryside.
• Walk/hike through mountain areas with brilliant wild flowers and berries.
• Visit quaint villages and towns in the fjord country.
• Fish in lakes and trout streams.
• See peaceful lakes, beautiful waterfalls and quiet streams, geo-thermal hot springs.

Typical Itinerary, a few highlights include:

Accommodations

Special highlights.

• Fully escorted bi-lingual Norwegian and Icelandic guide from arrival in Oslo and Reykjavik, respectively. Our guides are knowledgeable about the country, the area we travel, terrain, plants, culture, history and most all Norwegian and Icelandic issues.
• Leisure walking or mountain hiking for pleasure and exercise through back country's exciting scenery.
• Photography of the picturesque country-side and city sites.
• Experience Europe's largest mainland glacier, the Jostedalsbreen, Glacier museum.
• Explore the Sognefjord, 2 nd longest fjord in the world; 127 miles long and 4,290 feet deep.
• Visit Bergen’s Fish and Flower Market and Hanseatic buildings along the waterfront.
• Geothermal Spa - "Sky Lagoon".
• Whale Watching / Sea Angling.
• Puffin Watching.
• Icelandic Horse - Riding.
• Viking museum, Kon-Tiki museum.
• “New” opera building.
• Gullfoss, Geysir Geothermal Field.
• Hellisheidi Geothermal Power Plant.
• Thingvellir National Park

Physical Abilities

The price is $6,260.00 plus taxes. At Sign-up $350.00 is due. This tour is on a first come basis. You may visit other Scandinavian or European Cities, for up to thirty (30) days. Your trip can be customized to meet your needs. This price is based on a minimum of fifteen (15) participants and double occupancy; with currency rate and airline fuel costs as of August,3, 2023. (Price is subject to change.) You can request a Single Supplement and/or your stay can be extended with only a minor fare increase. Ask about extensions at Sign-up.

• Air travel, round-trip from Minneapolis; ICELANDAIR regular scheduled flights to Norway.
• Rail, deluxe motorcoach, expressboat and ferryboat transportation.
• All accommodations are in first rate lodges and hotels with clean rooms and comfortable beds.
• All meals included, except (5) lunches and (5) dinners for 14-days.
• Riding on Scandinavia’s most exciting railway, the Flam Line. This is the steepest of its kind in the world!
• Ferryboat round-trip to “Goat Cheese” capital of Norway-Undredal.
• Sightseeing in Oslo; home of Vigeland’s Sculpture Park and Bygdoy museums.
• Sightseeing in the Fjords, Glaciers, Geysers and Waterfalls.
• The Oslo Card - Unlimited free travel on various kinds of transportation, free admission to most museums and sights.
• Sightseeing “The Golden Circle”, the Wonders of Iceland in one-day.

Tour Application

Reservations are accepted on a first-come basis and enrollment is limited. To be included in the Summer Experience, a deposit of $350.00 is required at enrollment. The next payment of $1500.00 is due by March 1, with the balance due by April 1.

If you have further questions please call Marv or Jan Kaiser at 612.401.7771 or 612.861.2403

Special Air Fare

To reserve your spot, or for more information contact:

Scandinavia America Travel 7608 Bryant Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55423 USA Tel: 612.401.7771 or 612.861.2403

Our Featured Tours

Splendor of Norway

Capture the unique beauty of Norway on this 9-day tour featuring Oslo, Bergen and the regions of Sognefjord, Hardanger, and Telemark.

Captivating Scandinavia

This 13-day tour features the breathtaking fjords of Norway, a visit to Sweden’s Kingdom of Crystal, and a visit to royal Copenhagen. Immerse yourself in the rich culture that is unique to Scandinavia as you journey through Norway, Sweden, and Denmark!

Norway’s Fabulous Fjords

New for 2024!  Experience the Geirangerfjord, Sognefjord, and Hardangerfjord on this 12-day tour from Oslo to Bergen.  Featuring a cruise on the renowned Geirangerfjord, a farm tour with lunch, an excursion to the Briksdal Glacier and much more!

Why Choose Brekke Tours?

Brekke Tours strives to strengthen cultural, as well as ethnic ties between North America and Scandinavia/Europe by creating meaningful travel experiences. Since 1956, our dedicated and knowledgeable staff has worked to achieve this goal by assisting clients with making connections to ancestral ties, offering an array of enriching experiences while traveling and providing the level of customer service our clients have come to expect from Brekke Tours.

Customer Testimonials

“Brekke Tours provided an excellent tour and great vacation.“

“Family connection worth the trip!”

“Fabulous! Surprises and vistas at every turn!“

If you need assistance planning your perfect trip, give us a call @ 1-800-437-5302

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Scandinavia Tours From USA

Discover the charming cultures and beautiful landscapes of Sweden, Denmark and Norway on a Scandinavia tour from the USA. Your itinerary can be tailored by the Stockholm-based travel experts at Nordic Visitor, who will use their knowledge to create the perfect Scandinavia vacation package for you.

ITINERARY IDEAS FOR VACATION PACKAGES TO SCANDINAVIA

Looking for Scandinavia tours from the USA? Then you’ve come to the right place!

Scandinavia is a region in Northern Europe that’s made up of three amazing countries – Norway , Sweden   and Denmark . On a trip to Scandinavia, you could enjoy unique experiences such as fjord cruises, northern lights viewings, and city sightseeing tours.

Our Scandinavia experts are based in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. They can customise your itinerary according to your personal preferences and interests. You could join a guided small group tour , take the wheel on a self-drive trip , or opt for an independent experience of the region.

Plus, when you book a Scandinavia trip with Nordic Visitor, you get tried-and-tested accommodation, transportation reservations, and many other benefits as part of the package. You’ll also enjoy the personal service of your own dedicated travel consultant.

Keep browsing below to explore ideas for Scandinavia tours from the USA.

— WHY US?

Why book with nordic visitor.

• Experts in tailor-made Scandinavia tours
• Based in Sweden, Iceland & Scotland
• Local staff with first-hand Nordic travel experience
• Dedicated to providing personalised, quality service

ENJOY A GUIDED SMALL GROUP TOUR

A great way to experience Scandinavia is by joining a small group tour, travelling with like-minded visitors. Get to know Sweden, Norway and Denmark really well with guided sightseeing.

Highlights of Scandinavia

Sweden, denmark & norway.

Countries Visited Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark

Highlights of Scandinavia & Finland Cruise

Finland, sweden, denmark & norway.

Countries Visited Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Estonia

Highlights of Scandinavia & Baltic Cruise

Finland, estonia, sweden, denmark & norway, natural wonders of iceland, the ring road & snæfellsnes.

Highlights of the Ring Road

Iceland's wonders in a week.

Wonders of the Norwegian Fjords

Norway in a nutshell® & expert tour guide, scenic south iceland, geysers, volcanoes & glacier lagoon, complete iceland, the ring road & the westfjords.

1166521 ISK

Northern Lights Circle Tour

Iceland's famous ring road, highlights of norway, hurtigruten cruise, norwegian fjords & expert tour guide, winter highlights & northern lights, ice cave & glacier lagoon.

SEE THE CAPITALS OF SCANDINAVIA

Explore the Scandinavian Triangle, a circuit made up of Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo – the capitals of Sweden, Denmark and Norway. Visit all three cities in one amazing trip.

Capitals of Scandinavia

Best of scandinavia classic, train & cruise, capitals of scandinavia in winter, best of scandinavia classic - winter, capitals of scandinavia & norwegian fjords, best of scandinavia & finland cruise, best of scandinavia & baltic cruise, train, cruise & ferry, best of scandinavia at leisure, capitals of scandinavia & finland cruise, capitals of scandinavia & baltic cruise, cruise & ferry.

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark

The Nordic Countries Classic

Train, cruise & self-drive.

Countries Visited Iceland, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Estonia

The Nordic Countries Complete

Best of scandinavia & norway cruise, best of scandinavia & finland cruise - winter, capitals of scandinavia & finland cruise - winter, scandinavian travel experts.

As a travel agency based in the Nordic region, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Scandinavia. We offer a variety of tours — both independent and guided — that include the must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights that are hand-picked by our own Scandinavian travel experts. To ensure a stress-free trip, we handle all the local details for you — accommodations, activities, rental car (for self-drive tours), cruise/train tickets and other services.

Oh, and we can customise your itinerary! If you decide you want to add extra nights at a certain location, for example, your personal Nordic Visitor travel consultant will be happy to make suggestions and modify your itinerary.

What do our customers say?

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Relaxing and fun journey

The Scandanavian winter tour package and it's connections made it very easy to see the 4 capital cities and Bergen. There were plenty of suggestions for things to see and do. There was a great mix of cruise and rail segments between cities giving us a chance to see other parts of each country. Staff reserved an extra rail and overnight for us as soon as we asked about it. All in all a very relaxing and fun journey.

Just what we wanted

The plan was just what we wanted and the actual trip delivered just that. Nice balance of scheduled events and free time in the cities visited. Hotel locations were excellent and our tour guide was always available and helpful for additional questions and suggestions.  

First class

Communication was first class. Selection of accommodation was perfect. Great hotels in good locations.

Very easy process

We found the whole process very easy. The instructions and information provided was clear and made it easy to find hotels and transport links. The hotels were centrally located, close to transport links but were not noisy. Our personal travel consultant was very helpful and friendly. We liked the recommendations suggested in the daily itinerary.

Thoroughly recommend Nordic Visitor

We would recommend Nordic Visitor to anyone considering an introductory tour of Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo. Basics of logistics where well-stated. It was easy to commute from one capital to the next. Itineraries were clear yet flexible. We thought moving from one country to the next would be a challenge - it was not. Nordic Visitor arranged all that was needed, yet gave us the flexibility to do more or otherwise should we want. Again, we thoroughly recommend Nordic Visitor. We look forward to our next excursion in Scandinavia through Nordic Visitor.

Fantastic tour that included the highlights for each country we visited. I really feel like we have seen the best of the countries with the time we had. The activities were terrific. I felt supported by my tour planner, Irja, as we travelled.

Excellent vacation

We had an excellent vacation through Nordic Visitor. The expertise of our tour guide and small group size of 16 enhanced our experience. We had a good blend of free time and tour related programs. We did arrive 2 days early to Stockholm and stayed an additional 2 days in Bergen. We found this time beneficial to explore the areas more. 

A pleasure to work with

Working with Nordic Visitor, and specifcally Irja, was a pleasure. She did an excellent job presenting the information. It was nice to see her enthusiasm as she discussed activites the staff liked in each city. She responded to our questions promptly and in detail. The paperwork, itinerary, written day-by-day descriptions, vouchers, and tour info was all very well-thought-out and presented.

I would definitely recommend Nordic Visitor!

I was so happy during this entire trip. I wanted to travel to Norway before but I didn't understand how Norway in a Nutshell worked so the itinerary prepared by Irja was just perfect. She was always available to answer all my questions and the hotels and activities planned were perfect and easy for me as a solo traveller. I just had to enjoy each city. I would definitely recommend Nordic Visitor!

Very well planned

The tour was great and very well planned. We had enough time to explore the cities and the Swedish countryside. It was fun to drive and take the ferries as well.

The best vacation we've ever had!

This was the best vacation we've ever had and I'm planning a Norway trip for August 2024 as we speak. Thanks for a phenomenal time!

An amazing trip

We had an amazing trip in Swedish Lapland and the Scandinavian cities. Nordic Visitor's assistance helped us to have scheduled activities, but also free time to pick and choose what we wanted to do. It was a great balance of planning, with the inclusion of spontaneity!

FLIGHTS TO SCANDINAVIA

There are various direct flights from the USA to Scandinavia, more specifically to Stockholm (ARN), Oslo (OSL), Copenhagen (CPH) and Helsinki (HEL). You’ll also easily find connecting flights from several other major cities in central Europe. Approximate direct flight times are 10 hours from New York.

Below are airlines that offer flights to Scandinavia year-round: SAS : from New York, Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles, Washington, San Francisco and Miami Finnair : from New York, Miami and Los Angeles Norwegian : from New York British Airways : from New York, Miami and Los Angeles American Airlines : from New York, Miami and Los Angeles KLM : from Amsterdam Lufthansa : from Frankfurt Air France : from Paris Icelandair : from Reykjavík

We recommend checking with the airlines for flight availability and timetables. Flights are not included in Nordic Visitor packages, but all of our itineraries can be customised with extra nights in Stockholm, Oslo, Copenhagen or Helsinki if you’d like to rest up after a long plane journey.

Different ways you can experience Scandinavia

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Scandinavia below.

Guided Small Groups

Independent cruise, independent train, scandinavian triangle, ideas for scandinavia vacation packages.

Visiting Scandinavia from the USA is an enriching experience, with such fascinating cultures and jaw-dropping landscapes for you to discover. There are many reasons why Scandinavia is such a great travel destination for American visitors.

Firstly, it’s good to know that most locals speak English fluently. So whether you want to strike up a conversation or need help with directions, you won’t need to worry about any language barrier.

Another convenient thing about Scandinavia tours is that getting around is easy. This is thanks to the excellent transport connections and short distances between cities. That’s why we highly recommend the Scandinavian Triangle route – the capitals of Sweden, Norway and Denmark.

You can visit Stockholm, Oslo and Copenhagen in one incredible trip, travelling via train, plane and ferry. Or you might want to take a road trip instead. Spend your days enjoying walking tours, savouring delicious meals in Scandinavian restaurants, or cycling along pedestrianised streets and bike lanes.

What’s more, Sweden, Norway and Denmark are some of the safest countries in the world. You can expect clean cities, high standards of road safety, and low crime rates too.

But aside from these practical advantages, Scandinavia is a dream to explore because it is simply beautiful. Travel here and you’ll discover a land brimming with gorgeous scenery, from the idyllic islands of the Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden, to the majestic fjords near Bergen in Norway.

As a Northern European tour operator, Nordic Visitor specialises in organising vacations to this beautiful corner of the world. We have many more ideas and travel tips to help you explore Scandinavia your way!

• First time in the Nordics? See our 7 amazing Scandinavia tours for first-time visitors

Here’s one of our suggestions for a Scandinavia vacation package:

Day 1 - Arrive in Stockholm, Sweden Fly into Stockholm Arlanda Airport and head to your hotel in the city centre. Spend some time walking through Gamla Stan (the Old Town). Enjoy a fika (a Swedish coffee break) with a nice pastry at one of the local cafés in this medieval neighbourhood.

Day 2 - The highlights of Stockholm Spend a full day in the Swedish capital, discovering the city’s attractions and districts. You could join a sightseeing tour to see the best of Stockholm in a day, taking you to must-see spots like the City Hall, Royal Palace and trendy Södermalm quarter.

Or, a ferry ride will whisk you off to the island of Djurgården, home to the Nordic Museum and Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum. Meanwhile, a day trip to the Stockholm Archipelago means you could swim in the Baltic Sea and hike through forests.

Day 3 - Fly to Copenhagen, Denmark Head to Stockholm Airport after breakfast and board a plane to Copenhagen. Once in Denmark’s capital, take a walk down the city’s popular Strøget street for a bite to eat, or go check out the fun and games at the old fashioned Tivoli Gardens amusement park.

Day 4 - Discover Copenhagen Soak up the charms of Copenhagen today, either on your own or as part of a guided tour. You might want to visit Rosenborg Castle, the Botanical Garden and Torvehallerne food market.

We also recommend hopping on a boat tour to see Christiansborg Palace, the Royal Danish Opera House and the colourful Christianshavn Canal from the water.

Day 5 - Overnight cruise to Oslo, Norway Ahead of your journey to Oslo, spend the day enjoying more of Copenhagen. Why not make like the bicycle-happy Danes and rent a bike?

You could check out the exquisite Amalienborg Palace, as well as the colourful Nyhavn harbour and the Little Mermaid statue. Later, head to the port for your cruise to Oslo.

Day 6 - Explore Norway’s capital city After your ship arrives early in the morning, the whole day is yours to roam Oslo. Take a walk to the bustling Aker Brygge waterfront area and visit the Akershus Fortress. Or, head to the Bygdøy peninsula to explore historic museums.

If you love art, make sure to take a walk through the delightful Vigeland Sculpture Park. Don’t miss a visit to Oslo City Hall if you want to see where the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony is held.

Day 7 - Scenic train journey to Flåm This morning, go to Oslo Central Station to begin your Norway in a Nutshell® experience – one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. Look out the window to see picturesque landscapes and quaint villages like Gol and Geilo.

Change at Myrdal to board the Flåm Railway for one of the top highlights of the entire trip: a 900-metre (half-mile) descent to the picturesque village of Flåm, where you’ll stay for the night.

Day 8 - Norwegian fjord cruise Prepare to witness breathtaking Norwegian scenery today, as you hop on a cruise that takes you through the fjords. You’ll be able to admire the glittering waters, cascading falls and forested mountains of Sognefjord, passing through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Afterwards, it’s an exciting coach and train ride to Bergen.

Day 9 - Discover Bergen Known as the gateway to the fjords , Bergen is Norway’s charming second city with plenty of its own attractions to uncover. You can visit the medieval houses of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bryggen, and take the funicular up Mount Fløyen for panoramic views over the city and fjords.

There are also plenty of museums, shops and restaurants to check out on your last full day in Scandinavia

Day 10 - Depart from Bergen, Norway Fly back home from Bergen-Flesland Airport, having enjoyed 10 days in beautiful Scandinavia.

• Not sure when to go to Scandinavia, or what you want to see? Read our ultimate guide to the best times and places to visit

What other ideas are there for vacation packages to Scandinavia?

There are so many more tour options in this region of Northern Europe. You could opt for a cruise and vacation in Scandinavia, for example.

After starting your trip in Helsinki, the capital of Finland, you could choose to take a short ferry ride to Tallinn, Estonia’s capital. Then step aboard a cruise that whisks you to Stockholm. You’ll cross the Baltic Sea overnight to begin your exploration of the Scandinavian Triangle the following day.

Another alternative is to head deeper into rural Scandinavia. Discover natural gems like the breathtaking Norwegian fjords and mountains. You could journey even further up the west coast towards the Lofoten Islands on a Havila or Hurtigruten cruise , for an exciting Norway tour towards the Arctic Circle.

Like the sound of an odyssey to the far north of Europe? Then we recommend visiting Lapland  – a remote region covering parts of Sweden, Finland and Norway. Come in winter for the chance to see the northern lights, soak up snowy landscapes, and meet Santa Claus.

Or hop on a plane and visit Iceland as part of your Nordic experience!

Good to know : Most of our itineraries aren't set in stone, and there are many possibilities for customised routes.

We can modify your tour if you'd prefer to arrive in a different city or spend more free time in one destination than another. You might want to enjoy some private touring or add other towns to your trip.

Just ask your Nordic Visitor travel consultant for advice.

Interested in guided tours of Scandinavia?

To see the region from a local’s point of view and make some new friends along the way, a guided small group tour of the Scandinavian capitals is a great option! These tours run from May to August, so you can enjoy summer travel in Scandinavia

A small group tour offers an enriching experience, allowing you to get the most out of your trip thanks to the expertise of a local guide. What’s more, you’ll be travelling alongside 16 people at most, so the trip is still personal for you.

• Want the company of an expert guide and like-minded travellers? Here are 7 brilliant reasons to go on a European group tour

Prefer a self-guided tour of Scandinavia?

If you would like to discover Scandinavia on your own but prefer not to drive, then an independent tour is the perfect choice. Public transportation in Scandinavia is fast, reliable and punctual, so getting around by train and ferry is a great alternative to driving.

By opting for a train and cruise tour of Scandinavia, you’ll benefit from having your itinerary arrangements made for you but with the freedom to spend your days however you please. Nordic Visitor will book all your accommodation and travel tickets between destinations, and you can add on activities too.

Plus, by booking an independent tour of Scandinavia you’ll still be able to enjoy the usual Nordic Visitor benefits. These include access to our 24/7 helpline, a detailed personal itinerary, helpful travel guide and daily breakfast.

• First time in the Nordics? See our 7 amazing Scandinavia tour ideas for first-time visitors

How about a Scandinavia road trip?

You could explore Scandinavia on a self-drive tour , giving you the freedom to stop at lookout points and attractions whenever you want. Get ready for a real adventure, with incredible scenery outside your window to make the journey as unforgettable as the destinations you visit.

The best part? You won’t have to worry about where you’re going or sleeping, because your Nordic Visitor travel consultant has already sorted those local arrangements for you. You’ll also have access to our 24/7 emergency helpline should you need to call us at any point.

You could opt for a circular route between Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo, flying in and out of the Swedish capital, for example. This way, you could soak up the verdant countryside, rural villages, and grand castles and manor houses in this corner of Scandinavia.

All of Nordic Visitor’s Scandinavia self-drive tour packages can be tailored by our local experts with extra nights at select locations or modified driving routes. If you have any particular attractions in mind, just contact us to ask.

Scroll down to learn more about Nordic Visitor’s services.

— OTHER DESTINATIONS

See more of northern europe.

• Like raw nature? Discover Iceland ’s jaw-dropping landscapes
• Want more road trip ideas? Venture to Scotland and Ireland
• Love winter scenery? Make for snowy Lapland
• Keen to go off the beaten track? Explore wild Greenland  or Svalbard

Our services

Whether you travel by train, cruise ship or car in your Nordic Visitor package, you can expect personal service from your own designated travel consultant and a tailor-made itinerary with quality travel documents. Our self-drive clients also receive a hand-marked map outlining the route, overnight stays and highlights along the way. Furthermore, we have long-standing professional relationships with trusted local tour operators , which are carefully selected by our staff for their high standards of service.

Book with Confidence

• Protect your money & plans with our  flexible booking terms    .
• 97% of customers say they’d recommend us to friends.
• We work closely with trusted, high-quality suppliers.
• Enjoy personal service from Scandinavian travel experts.
• Get peace of mind with a 24/7 helpline during your stay.
• We’re here for you in case of unforeseen circumstances.

We’re here to help, so get in touch with our friendly team to book your package or add extra nights and activities to an existing booking.

Our Scandinavian phone number is +46 8 666 23 30

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Blog posts you might like

7 brilliant reasons to go on a european group tour, the ultimate scandinavia guide: the best times & places to visit, 7 amazing scandinavia tour ideas for first-time visitors, why scandinavia is perfect for solo travel.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

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Scandinavia Reviews & Ratings

You’ll see incredible places.

This glorious trip is 1 week with people on the Taste of Scandinavia tour then 2 weeks with those on the Scandinavian Explorer trip (I’m so glad I chose all 3 weeks)...

Simply an amazing trip

Simply an amazing trip - so much seen and done. Each country is uniquely different and it has been great to experience them all. This trip provides a complete Scandi...

Had a fabulous time

We did “Complete Scandinavia” trip and had a fabulous time. We enjoyed every place we stayed, from the capital cities to smaller towns like Lillehammer and Gudvangen...

Fantastic insight into Scandinavia

Fantastic insight into Scandinavia. Highlights were the local guide who took us cycling in Copenhagen and a 4th generation local guide at wild, beautiful Vrångö Isla...

The Taste of Scandinavia trip was fantastic

The Taste of Scandinavia trip was fantastic and a great way to get an introduction to this beautiful part of the World! The travel and accommodation was great and al...

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Trip planning.

The Scandinavian American Story

Throughout America, many people celebrate Norwegian and Scandinavian culture. Let's take a look at the reason so many Americans claim Scandinavian heritage–and how they choose to celebrate it.

Because of mass migration more than 100 years ago, around 11 million Americans claim Scandinavian ancestry today. That's approximately 3.3% of the population of the USA.

It's quite a remarkable number when you consider the combined population of the Scandinavian countries –Denmark, Norway and Sweden–amounts to just over 21 million today.

In this article, we look at the reasons for the migration itself. We also look at how Danish, Norwegian and Swedish traditions influences modern America.

Of course, this isn't the complete story. But hopefully, it'll be a start to whatever questions you have about Scandinavian American culture. Let's get going…

Table of Contents

Why are there so many Scandinavian Americans?

The reason there are so many Scandinavian Americans comes down to mass migration in the 19th century. Long before the discovery of oil , Norway was a poor, agricultural country. The rest of Scandinavia wasn't much different.

With long, harsh winters in store, just one poor harvest could prove deadly. The lure of the ‘new world' and the ‘American dream' was a strong one for those who lived by the fjords .

Read more : Uff Da: What the Norwegian American Expression Really Means

Over the course of around 100 years, an estimated 800,000 Norwegians made the journey to the new world. That's quite something when you consider the population of Norway today stands at about 5.4 million. But back then, the population was more like 2 million, so the exodus was truly enormous.

Big numbers also made the journey from Sweden, with some also travelling from Denmark. Others also made the trip from elsewhere in the Nordic region such as the Faroe Islands and Finland.

The great migration

Migration from Norway to what is now the USA began in July 1825. Fifty-two people spent three months sailing on the sloop Restauration from Stavanger to New York City. Most of these early movers did so for religious reasons. As quakers, they felt unwelcome in Norway.

But it wasn't until the latter half of the 19th century that mass migration for economic reasons really began. Hundreds of thousands of Scandinavians made the trip, many travelling via Liverpool, England.

Some took a shorter, cheaper route to Canada and completed their journey to the US via rail or smaller coastal vessels. It wasn't until the turn of the century that many Scandinavians began to settle in Canada itself.

The earliest immigrants to the US were almost exclusively farmers, so settled in rural areas in the Midwest. Of all the immigrants settling in America during the period, the Norwegians were the most rural.

Read more : How to research your Norwegian geneaology

Small communities of Norwegian-speakers sprung up in these rural states, with their own churches, schools and newspapers were established. The Norwegian American is the modern relative of some of these publications.

NDLA carries the story of one Norwegian immigrant, Ida Hansen, who very much lived the American dream. She moved from Ringsaker to Chicago with her parents and two siblings. After marrying a Danish immigrant, she started a monthly Norwegian language journal for Scandinavian women in America.

At its peak in 1907, the journal had a circulation of around 83,000. Such was the journal's success, Ida moved to California and built a mansion. The journal closed in 1947.

American states with strong Scandinavian heritage

In terms of raw numbers, Minnesota is the most ‘Scandinavian' of the American states. However, on a percentage basis, it's actually South Dakota that takes the title.

Of course, it's not a competition! But looking at both the raw numbers and the percentages just serves to illustrate how embedded Norwegian ancestry is across the USA.

There are Scandinavian American communities all across the USA, of course. I can't cover all of them in one blog post, so here is just a selection to give you an idea of the stories that can be found all across north America.

With more than 1.5 million people (32% of the population) claiming Scandinavian heritage, Minnesota is a hotbed of Scandinavian traditions. That's especially true for Norwegian culture and heritage.

The first Norwegian settlement in the state was Norwegian Ridge, in what is now Spring Grove. As more settlers came, these initial settlements grew rapidly, helped by a high birth rate. This fast beginning resulted in the high numbers of Norwegian-Americans we see today.

I saw it for myself when I visited the state back in 2013 . On a trip to the Twin Cities, I visited Norway House, a cultural centre that has since expanded significantly . I also found a few Scandinavian shops, and saw a surprising number of Norwegian flags.

Outside of the Twin Cities, the Norwegian presence is even more prominent. Rural communities such as Fertile, Spring Grove, Twin Valley, Rushford, Starbuck and Hawley claim the biggest proportion of residents with Norwegian heritage.

North and South Dakota

The first settlers arrived in 1859, but most Norwegians settled in the area between 1870 and 1920. Today many Norwegian Dakotans can trace their heritage back to rural Telemark, Norway .

North Dakota plays host to the largest Scandinavian festival in North America. The annual Norsk Høstfest is held every October in Minot. It's a chance for Norwegian Dakotans and others to get together, join dances, remember traditions, and enjoy traditional food.

Later waves of Norwegian immigration travelled farther west. Oregon and Utah were popular choices, but many more headed to Washington state.

At more than 20% of foreign-born residents, Scandinavians were the largest ethnic group in the state by 1910. This was even more so in Seattle. The water and forests of the Puget Sound area attracted Norwegians and allowed them to use their skills.

The 17th of May, Norway's national day , has been celebrated in the city since 1889. Today, the Seattle  parade is one of the biggest in the world outside of Norway.

The state of Wisconsin was a popular destination for the first settlers. By 1850, around 8,600 Norwegians lived there. This quickly rose to more than 44,000 just ten years later. One of the first settlements, Muskego, is today known as the town of Norway.

Each May, Stoughton hosts a city-wide festival to mark Norway's national day. The syttende mai festival features parades, food and drink, arts and music, athletic competitions, and kids’ activities steeped in centuries of Norwegian culture.

Scandinavian American traditions

Throughout the USA, many people celebrate Scandinavian American holidays. Many of the traditions are rooted in 1800s Scandinavia, while others are still present in modern-day Scandinavia.

As I've already touched on a couple of times, Norway's national day brings many people with Scandinavian American heritage together.

In Swedish American communities, midsummer is the biggest of them all. While some Norwegian American communities also mark the occasion, midsummer isn't celebrated in much of Norway , with a few exceptions such as the annual bonfire in Ålesund .

Many of the traditions revolve around food and drink. Norwegian lefse is eaten throughout the year in Norway but it tends to be reserved for celebrations such as Christmas in the USA. This has its roots in the lefse being a celebratory food back in 1800s Norway.

Lutefisk is a common celebratory meal in Norwegian American communities, along with raspeboller, (also known as komler), Norwegian potato dumplings.

Scandinavian American TV shows

In recent years, several TV shows have been produced of interest to the Scandinavian American communities.

Firstly, Alt for Norge is a reality show with a difference. The contestants—all Americans with Norwegian heritage—visit Norway to participate in a series of modern Norwegian challenges. These vary from memorising language to skiing, often with hilarious results.

A nice touch in Alt for Norge, which is known in the USA as The Great Norwegian Adventure , is that the winner gets to meet their distant Norwegian relatives. All the other contestants receive a book with information and photos about their specific heritage. To find out more, listen to this interview with a former contestant !

In Greg Poehler's Welcome to Sweden , a New York accountant (played by Poehler) moves to Sweden with his Swedish girlfriend. While the show was cancelled due to low ratings, it's worth a watch to see the comedic challenges the American character faces in moving to Sweden with no job and no friends.

In some respects, Welcome to Sweden was a successor to Lilyhammer . The NRK show saw a former New York gangster played by Steven Van Zandt relocate to Norway as part of a witness protection program.

Scandinavian American groups and societies

I've been running this website for many years now. Over that time, many Scandinavian groups and societies across North America have gotten in touch. Some focus on history, others on preserving traditions, and some are simply social groups.

Once again, I can't possibly list every group or society here, but here are some of the heavy hitters.

American Swedish Institute , Minneapolis, MN: A museum and cultural centre with exhibitions and innovative programming, known for the historic Turnblad Mansion. Read more here .

Norway House , Minneapolis, MN: An international business and culture organisation dedicated to establishing, renewing, and advancing connections between contemporary Norway and the United States through education and partnerships centred around the arts, business, and culture. Read more here .

Sons of Norway : Founded in 1895 as the Independent Order of the Sons of Norway, is a fraternal organisation principally representing people of Norwegian heritage in the United States and Canada. Read more here .

Daughters of Norway : A sisterhood of women who wish to preserve Norwegian heritage, maintaining among members a knowledge of the history, culture and language of Norway. Read more here .

Vasa Order of America : A Swedish-American fraternal, cultural and educational organisation. The organisation seeks to benefit its members by sharing Swedish and Scandinavian culture and heritage. Read more here .

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About David Nikel

Originally from the UK, David now lives in Trondheim and was the original founder of Life in Norway back in 2011. He now works as a professional writer on all things Scandinavia.

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13 thoughts on “The Scandinavian American Story”

Hi David, Thanks for providing an American living in Bergen with an interesting read 🙂 Before moving to Bergen in 2013 I lived in New York City and I have a couple of funny/improbable experiences of running into Swedes, Danes and Norwegians there. What you’ve told here is the common story of 19th century immigration to the U.S. but immigration continues today to the U.S. but in a modern form (mainly for higher education, higher paying job prospects and marriage). That said, the U.S. doesn’t offer Scandinavians the same “freedom of movement”/easy integration benefits as EU countries do (and neither do Scandinavian countries offer this to the few Americans who immigrate the other way) so EU and UK destinations have been more popular in recent years than they were in the 19th century. Percapita, the U.S. doesn’t even attract as many Scandinavians as other non-European advanced industrialized countries (e.g. Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Canada, etc.) and that’s a problem because it leads to false perceptions about the U.S. in pockets of Scandinavia (I have close friends who seem to think New York has more murders percapita than Sweden. It doesn’t.) or that the people are generally idiots (NRK recently sent a journalist from Washington to rural Louisiana to cover a pastor who said he was going to hold a church service despite the risks of Covid-19 (in the end he didn’t but the journalist still flew last-minute to Louisiana on Norwegian tax-payer funded trip to file his report).

As an immigrant myself I would love to hear more about the contemporary immigrant experiences. What seems to be missing in our discussions of immigration is the diversity of the phenomena. I’ve studied Norwegian with refugees, young university students, recently arrived spouses of Norwegians and professionals drawn to Norway for job opportunities and a better life for themselves and possibly their children. I hope that the history books reflect that diversity when discussing 21st century immigration and I think it’s also time that we recognized that 19th and 20th century immigration was also more diverse than we’re often led to believe, even when discussing just Norwegian immigration. Not everyone came from overcrowded farming communities in Norway during the 19th century. Many were from larger cities like Oslo, Trondheim and Bergen and ended up in big cities like Chicago and New York. Getting at the nuances in history and the exceptions to the rule can be not only fascinating but can help to broaden our understandings of large phenomena like immigration. Thanks again, I look forward to reading more of your posts.

As you are probably aware, in the early 20th century there was a section in Brooklyn namely in Bay Ridge and Sunset Park area where thousands of Norwegian ancestry lived, in fact on 8th Avenue you heard more Norwegian than English. It is said that many who came to Brooklyn couldn’t afford the train fare to go west. Then again my grandfather was a dock builder including being a superintendent in the building of the Dry Docks in the Brooklyn Navyyard during WWII. The whole area is now Chinese in origin. There were many Churches in Brooklyn where some of the services were in Norwegian.

Thank you for including Daughters of Norway in your article! Your readers can also stay connected with our organization on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/daughtersofnorway . Also if anyone is in an area that does not have a local lodge, I’m happy to help them learn more about starting one!

About 1,3 million swedes went to America.

My grand parents came from Lilyhammer in the 1880s. I found the tv show very interesting. Now in the States I can only find season ONE. Seasons 2 and 3 have to be ordered from Asia which can be a hit or miss deal. Any insight on getting the other seasons?

Seattle (Ballard) has a new Norge museum you may wish to check in on. Very well done and good Norge food and “drinks”.

You should find some episodes on YouTube if you search for: “Alt for Norge”

Or behind this site where you have to pay and I’m not sure you will be able to stream the content back to the USA

https://www.dplay.no/programmer/alt-for-norge

“In terms of raw numbers, Minnesota is the most ‘Scandinavian’ of the American states. However, on a percentage basis, it’s actually South Dakota that takes the title.”

Correction, please. I do believe that should be NORTH DAKOTA, not South Dakota.

Was St Olaf a real Scandinavian town in Minnesota or is it fictional?

There is a real St. Olaf, MN. It is a rural township with a population of three to four hundred people, located about 150 miles northwest of Minneapolis/ St. Paul. Better known (Except perhaps to fans of “The Golden Girls”) is St. Olaf College, located about 40 miles south of the Twin Cities in Northfield, MN. A highly respected private college of about 3,000 students, St. Olaf was founded in 1874 by Norwegian immigrants to the area. Both the township and college are named in honor of King Olaf II, the patron saint of Norway.

I just finished watching the first episode of Season 1 of Lilyhammer. I was dismayed to see that the character played by Steven Van Zandt was able to understand a lot of the Norwegian language in such a short time (like overnight!). How is this explained by the director of the show?

It’s a TV show. It does not have to make sense.

My great grandfather Gustav Gulliksen born in Rogaland came to Chicago in the 1880’s through Canada. He was the captain of a sailing ship on the high seas. He left the sea because steam ships were taking over and he said he was a sailor not a driver😊. He ended up driving a street car in Chicago In the Humboldt Park neighborhood on the west side of Chicago there is a statue of Leif Ericsson. It’s now a mostly Hispanic neighborhood. I’m blond with blue eyes so look like Norwegians are expected to look 😃

Hei David, Another cultural preservation group worthy of note would be the Norwegian American Historical Association. It is located on the campus of St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. Perhaps you are already aware of it. They produce several publications about Norwegian culture and history, and sponsor scholarships for those interested in doing research about Norwegian culture and history in America. Their web site is https://naha.stolaf.edu , where further information about joining can be found. I believe membership is currently $55 yearly. Thei address is 1510 St. Olaf Avenue, Northfiel, MN 55057. Their phone nember is (507) 786-3221.

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Nordic Perspective

Where Do Scandinavians Travel Abroad? (Data, Facts & Trends)

Scandinavians love to travel, that’s no secret. In fact, Nordic countries occupy 4 out of the top 5 spots in a study conducted pre-covid which measured which countries travel most (with Americans coming in on 2nd place just after Finland on 1st, and before #3 Sweden, #4 Denmark and #5 Norway).

Travel habits have changed for most people during 2020 and 2021, but we can still get a decent idea of where Scandinavians like to travel by looking at data from 2019 and comparing that to more recent data, which of course will slowly return to “normal” as restrictions gradually disappear.

Top destinations for Scandinavians traveling abroad in 2019:

• Scandinavian Traveller's Dream Destinations in 2019

Why do Scandinavians travel so much?

Where do scandinavians travel to these days.

Scandinavians travel a lot within the region — especially so during 2020 and 2021 — but when they go outside of the Nordics they generally prefer warmer destinations in countries like Spain, Greece, Thailand, Turkey, and Italy.

Let’s take a detailed look at the top destinations in recent years for Scandinavian travelers:

Swedes: 1. Bangkok 2. London 3. Malaga 4. Barcelona 5. Istanbul 6. Alicante 7. Paris 8. Amsterdam 9. Palma de Mallorca 10. New York Norwegians: 1. Spain 2. Sweden 3. Denmark Danes: 1. Spain 2. Germany 3. Italy 4. Greece 5. Norway 6. France 7. Sweden 8. Turkey 9. USA 10. Portugal

Note: No data as travel restrictions prevented travel to most destinations due to the global pandemic.

Top destinations for Scandinavians traveling abroad in 2021:

Swedes: 1. Rhodes, Greece 2. Cyprus, Greece 3. Crete, Greece 4. Mallorca, Spain 5. Antalya Coast, Turkey Norwegians: 1. Spain 2. Denmark 3. Sweden 4. Greece 5. Italy 6. UK 7. Germany 8. France 9. Croatia 10. US Note: Travel restrictions due to COVID-19 still in effect for many destinations.

Scandinavian Traveller’s Dream Destinations in 2019

How about if one could go anywhere one wanted? Scandinavian Airlines asked their passengers to name their dream destination (for a chance to win a trip there), and this is how they answered in each Scandinavian country:

Scandinavians are thought to travel a lot due to a combination of three things: high average incomes, harsh winter weather conditions, and a high cost of living.

When the cold winter winds start making conditions pretty bleak in the Nordics, it’s not hard to understand why anyone would like to get away for some warmth and sunshine — even if just for a week.

Traveling is of course expensive, but when you have a good average income and life is cheaper abroad than at home, it’s even easier to see why Scandinavians travel so much.

https://www.mynewsdesk.com/se/tui/pressreleases/saa-reser-vi-2021-3060885

https://scandinaviantraveler.com/se/resmal/skandinaverna-har-rostat-hit-reser-de-helst

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https://www.vagabond.se/nyhet/vagabonds-resebarometer-forra-aret-okade-resandet-till-nya-rekordnivaer

https://www.expressen.se/allt-om-resor/skandinaver-reser-mest-i-hela-varlden/

https://www.mynewsdesk.com/se/momondo/pressreleases/resmaalen-som-lockade-flest-svenskar-under-2019-2954050

https://www.statista.com/statistics/882689/leading-summer-holiday-destinations-of-norwegians/

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By Karl Andersson

As a native Swede with a Finnish mother, Karl identifies as both Nordic and Scandinavian. He left Sweden at 19 to explore the world, and stayed abroad for almost 8 years—during which he backpacked, worked every job there was, earned a degree from UC Berkeley, and met the future mother of his children. He ultimately returned to his native Malmö with his love, where they now have 3 Swedish-American boys eager to explore the world.

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Bookings & Enquiries

50 Degrees North is a Nordic tour operator and destination specialist that offers authentic, responsible and innovative travel experiences in Scandinavia, Finland, Iceland, Greenland, the Arctic and the Baltics. We specialise regionally, because we want to offer genuine expertise and true value to our clients.

Why travel with us?

There are many reasons to book your Nordic holiday with us, and here are a few to think about:

High level of personal service: You get to speak with a passionate local Scandinavian with first hand knowledge from the region. With your preferences in mind, they will put together your itinerary and stay in close contact with you until everything is to your satisfaction.

Genuine local expertise and unique value: Our owners and the majority of our sales staff are Scandinavians , and we know our home region like the back of our hand. This expertise is unique in the industry and adds significant value to each and every booking, ensuring our customers have the best possible holiday experience.

Innovative, authentic and responsible travel experiences: We specialise in creating travel packages full of unique accommodation options and destination stops off the beaten track. We believe that this gives you more meaningful and extraordinary travel experiences and memories that truly last a lifetime.

Wholesale travel with close supplier relations and competitive prices: As Scandinavians , we have a strong relationship with local suppliers and hoteliers. We contract directly with local guides, hoteliers and transport companies. There are no middlemen taking a cut, and our rates are competitive. That said, we are not in the game of competing for the cheapest available rate of the day. The personal touch and care we provide to every trip goes far beyond anything offered through an online booking site.

Up-to-date knowledge of local conditions: We keep updated on local conditions to benefit your holiday. This may include a) knowledge on which areas have building works taking place which may affect your good night’s sleep, b) knowledge of which cruise ship may be docking in small fjord villages when you happen to be there seeking peace and quiet; c) alternative transport options taking you away from the main crowds.

Around the clock support during your travels: Our Norway office provides 24-hour emergency support during your time in the Nordics, so you can feel confident that you are in safe hands. If you have missed your transportation or come across any other inconvenience, you know where to call.

Multiple locations and time zones for enquiries: 50 Degrees North has offices in Lillehammer (Norway), Minneapolis (United States of America), Vancouver (Canada) as well as Melbourne (Australia) and will be able to respond to sales and operational enquiries in three time zones.

Sustainable travel as a key value: Explore our key principles for sustainable tourism and responsible travel HERE.

Accredited travel operator: The Australian entity, 50 Degrees North Pty Ltd, is full participant of the AFTA Travel Accreditation Scheme (ATAS) with ATAS Accreditation number; A10454. We are CATO registered Operators and also Virtuoso Preferred Suppliers.

Your pre-paid funds

When booking a holiday with 50 Degrees North your funds are paid into a Client Trust Account with a reputed bank (U.S. Bank, National Australia Bank or Den Norske Bank, Norway). Your funds are securely locked away in the Client Trust Account until we are required to pay our suppliers for your travel arrangements. We are not utilising your pre-paid funds for day-to-day operations of our business until all your travel arrangements have been settled and your travel has commenced.

American Just Launched a New Flight to One of Europe’s Coolest Cities

Added bonus: a newly overhauled business-class offering makes the transatlantic journey even comfier..

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Step off the plane and onto the pedals to ride around this incredibly bike-friendly Scandinavian city.

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The excitement was palpable earlier this month as the inaugural American Airlines flight from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Copenhagen Airport (CPH) geared to take off. Speeches were made, a balloon arch filled with red-and-white Denmark flags decked the departure gate, and Danish pastries were served to the very loud and upbeat soundtrack of what can only be described as the Danish take on hip-hop.

The new service to Denmark is “bringing American Airlines back to the Nordics after several years away,” José Freig, American’s vice president of international operations, told Afar in an email statement following the inaugural flight. The last time American flew to the region was with its service to Reykjavík, Iceland, which ended in 2019.

Following a ribbon-cutting ceremony, passengers were invited on June 6 to embark on American Airlines’ newly launched flight to Copenhagen , a route that was announced last year as part of the carrier’s plans for new and expanded Europe service in 2024. American was able to carry out the transatlantic network growth after finally receiving additional Boeing aircraft following initial delivery delays.

With the new Philadelphia to Copenhagen route, “we will offer more single connects across the U.S. to Copenhagen than any other airline,” Brian Znotins, senior vice president of network planning, explained on American’s Tell Me Why podcast .

American’s new Copenhagen flight connects to more than 85 routes across North America. In addition to Copenhagen, American has also added seasonal service to Naples, Italy, and Nice, France, from Philadelphia this summer.

Head straight for Copenhagen’s colorful canals and explore a city where so much of life takes place on and along the water.

Photo by Peter Llyod/Unsplash

All of the new flights are being operated on Boeing 787-9 aircraft and are currently scheduled to run until the fall (the Copenhagen and Nice flights will run until October 6; the Naples flights will run through October 26). American has not yet announced whether the new Copenhagen, Naples, and Italy service will return in 2025.

The new Europe routes come just as American has revamped the food and amenities for its first-, business-, and premium-economy–class seats on transatlantic flights, making flying with the airline even more enticing for premium travelers hopping the pond.

Here’s what to know about the new Copenhagen flight and the new offerings at the front of the plane.

American Airlines’ new flight to Copenhagen

American Airlines’ new flight from Philadelphia to Copenhagen is being operated on a Boeing 787-9 aircraft with 255 seats in the Main Cabin, including 21 reclining Premium Economy seats that have seven inches of added legroom and are slightly wider than the airplane’s economy seats. Up front are 30 lie-flat seats in the Flagship business-class cabin in a 1-2-1 configuration, complete with a 15.4-inch movie screen, Bang & Olufsen headphones, and several other bells and whistles, including some brand-new upgrades (more on that below).

American Airlines flight 744 is now departing daily from Philadelphia at 9:35 p.m. (local time) and arriving seven and a half hours later in Copenhagen at 11:10 a.m. (local time). American Airlines flight 745 departs Copenhagen daily at 2 p.m. (local time) and arrives in Philadelphia roughly eight and a half hours later at 4:25 p.m. (local time).

Having recently experienced the flight traveling first from San Francisco, I have to say that breaking up the Europe journey into roughly equal parts is not a bad option (versus flying directly from the West Coast to Europe on a longer overnight flight). With American Airlines providing reliable Wi-Fi connectivity on its domestic flights, I was able to work on the daytime flight from San Francisco to Philadelphia, then unwind and sleep during the overnight flight from Philadelphia to Copenhagen. American’s newly enhanced business-class offering (I was seated in seat 5L on the flight to CPH, a business-class window seat) certainly helped with catching some Zs en route to Europe. That made it much easier to hit the ground running upon arrival.

American’s new bedding in business now comes in a reusable zipper pouch, versus plastic that will end up in a landfill.

Photo by Michelle Baran

New business-class upgrades

As American gears up to launch new Flagship Suite seats on its Boeing 787-9s, Boeing 777-300s, and Airbus A321XLRs (no precise date has been provided for the unveiling, but originally American had said the planes would debut in 2024), the airline is starting to provide upgraded offerings to first, business, and premium-economy travelers on international flights, including on its new flights to Copenhagen, Nice, and Naples.

Amenity kits featuring a rotating roster of Thirteen Lune skin-care products (all of which are “beauty brands created by Black and Brown founders” per Thirteen Lune) are now being handed out to first, business, and premium-economy travelers flying overseas. The idea is that the kits will change and showcase different skin-care brands and products every few months. That way regular fliers will get to experience new options.

As of Memorial Day weekend, those flying first and business are being offered dual-sided pillows that are cooling on one side and feature traditional fabric on the other. American collaborated with textile company John Horsfall to develop the bedding using recycled materials. To further reduce plastic waste, the new bedding, including a blanket, is being provided in a reusable zipper pouch made from recycled fibers, instead of in a single-use plastic bag. The change will save approximately 25 tons of plastic a year.

All international business-class travelers will also now be receiving slippers (before, only those flying business on ultra-long-haul flights were given slippers).

En route to Copenhagen from Philadelphia, one of the menu options in business was this tasty barramundi dish with rice.

Customers traveling in business class to and from Europe will be treated to new menu items such as salmon with red curry sauce, chicken with mojo verde sauce, and macadamia-crusted sea bass.

I can attest that the food, service, and amenities in American’s revamped business-class offering on transatlantic flights created indulgent dining and restful sleeping experiences. I also appreciated the option to preorder menu items up to 24 hours before the flight, which allowed me to secure the curry salmon even though it was running out for those ordering during the flight.

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• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
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Known for its stunning natural beauty, Norway’s exquisite and tranquil fjords are reason alone to experience this country: the breathtaking viewpoints along each make for truly unforgettable experiences. The Sognefjord and the Hardangerfjord, the respective King and Queen of the fjords, are remarkable photogenic experiences. The Geirangerfjord—a stunning location accessible by luxury cruise—makes for an impressive visit with sights like the hairpin Trollstigen Road and the Seven Sisters waterfall.

In contrast, the charming city of Bergen and the bustling Viking capital, Oslo, are full of a welcome energy, with medieval castles, old wharfs and Hanseatic-era packhouses lining their ancient waterways. Bergen, home to the UNESCO World Heritage-rated Bryggen Hanseatic Wharf, offers up numerous tours and activities with which to experience its small-town feel. Up in the north, the Lofoten Islands’ Svolvær is the perfect base to get the feel of Norway’s less explored regions in any season—and to catch a wintertime showing of the spellbinding Northern Lights. Whether you take a cruise up the fjords, hunt for the Northern Lights or explore the Lofoten Islands, Norway has plenty of unique cultural points of interest—and as a country dominated by majestic scenery, it’s a must for any Scandinavian journey. Browse our featured tours above and contact us today to create a one-of-a-kind journey uniquely suited to you!

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