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Forbes
9 hours ago
- Forbes
How To See The Best Of Trondheim On A Norway Cruise
These colorful buildings lining the river are a highlight of Trondheim's Bakklandet neighborhood. David Nikel Tucked between forested hills and a winding river, Trondheim might not be the most obvious stop on a Norway cruise, but that's exactly what makes it special. This former Viking capital is home to Norway's grandest cathedral, a thriving café culture and quiet cobbled streets where locals cycle to work year-round. Compact and walkable, it offers just enough history, charm and character to fill a rewarding day ashore, with fewer of the crowds you'll find in some Norwegian cruise destinations. Although not a constant fixture on cruise itineraries like Bergen or Ålesund, Trondheim still sees a steady flow of ships, especially on voyages heading north toward the Arctic. It serves as a cultural and geographical midpoint, with lines such as Silversea, Holland America, MSC Cruises, Ambassador Cruise Line, and AIDA making regular appearances throughout the cruise season. Whether you're planning to join a ship excursion or venture out independently, here's how to make the most of a cruise stop in Trondheim. Where Ships Dock In Trondheim Most cruise ships dock at Kai 68 in the Brattøra district, just a 10-minute walk from the city center. While some cruise lines provide shuttle buses, the walk is straightforward and manageable for most visitors. MSC 'Preziosa' cruise ship docked in Trondheim, Norway. David Nikel The route is clearly signposted and passes Rockheim, Norway's national museum of popular music, housed in a striking modern building. A pedestrian bridge crosses the railway tracks near Trondheim Central Station. It's steep, but there's an elevator for those who need it. On busy days, when multiple ships are in port, overflow vessels may be directed to an alternate pier in the Ila district, roughly a 25-minute walk from the city center. In this case, shuttle buses are often provided, though public buses also run nearby. If walking, take Hospitalsgata and Dronningens gate for a quieter, more picturesque route. Travelers arriving on the Norwegian coastal voyage with Hurtigruten or Havila will dock at the designated coastal terminal, separate from the main cruise pier. From there, it's roughly a 15-20-minute walk to the central area. Must-See Trondheim Highlights Your first stop should be Nidaros Cathedral, Norway's national shrine. Built over the burial site of Saint Olav, the Viking king who brought Christianity to Norway, it has been a site of pilgrimage for nearly a thousand years. If time and mobility allow, venture down to the atmospheric crypt to see a collection of medieval gravestones and climb the narrow spiral staircase to the tower for sweeping views over the city. The striking west front of Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim, Norway. David Nikel Just next door, the Archbishop's Palace houses a well-curated museum showcasing Norway's royal regalia and archaeological finds from the cathedral's past. If history is your thing, a combination ticket covering all these attractions is both convenient and excellent value. From here, it's a short walk to Bakklandet, the city's prettiest neighborhood. Cross the red-painted Old Town Bridge to enter a photogenic district of colorful wooden houses, many of which are home to cozy cafés. Just watch out for cyclists. Excursions Or Independent Exploration? Trondheim is one of the easiest Norwegian ports to explore on your own, but excursions may appeal if you're looking to dig deeper. Some tours take guests to Kristiansten Fortress for panoramic views and often incorporate Trondheim's hidden Second World War history. Others venture outside the city to Sverresborg, an open-air folk museum that recreates rural Norwegian life with historic buildings relocated from across the region. At approximately $45, the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus is expensive, yet it's likely a cheaper option than a sightseeing tour of the city arranged by your cruise line. It only has four stops but they are spaced out, so plan your tour carefully to ensure you don't face a long wait or a long walk. Another alternative to consider is walking into the city to visit Nidaros Cathedral, then taking the tram up to the city forest. On the way, you'll get wonderful views across the city plus a taste of the Norwegian outdoors lifestyle. If the weather is nice, take a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lake. Know Before You Go To Trondheim The weather in Trondheim can be unpredictable, even in summer. Bring a light waterproof jacket and comfortable walking shoes. Credit cards are accepted everywhere, and tap-to-pay is standard. English is widely spoken. One place you can't pay by card is on the bus or tram, where only cash is accepted, albeit with limited to no change. That's because virtually all Norwegians use a physical travel card or the AtB app, available in English, to buy and display tickets. If you have cell coverage available, the app is by far the easiest and cheapest way to buy tickets. If not, consider buying a day pass in advance from Narvesen or 7-Eleven outlets throughout the city. If your time in Trondheim is limited, prioritize the cathedral, Bakklandet, and a stroll along the Nidelva river. With a little planning, even a short port stop can offer a memorable glimpse into one of Norway's most livable cities. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes How To Spend A Weekend In Trondheim, Norway By David Nikel Forbes How To Plan A Norwegian Fjords Cruise In 2025 By David Nikel Forbes Avoid These 10 Rookie Mistakes On Your First Cruise By David Nikel
Forbes
28-06-2025
- Business
- Forbes
In Leeds, Shopping Comes With A View
Leeds Corn Exchange is a striking former grain market turned thriving independent retail hub. David Nikel Tucked between the better-known tourist destinations of Manchester and York, the West Yorkshire city of Leeds doesn't always top international travel itineraries. But for those who make the journey, there's a surprise waiting in the heart of the city: a shopping district that blends ornate 19th-century architecture with cutting-edge design in a way that few places in the U.K. manage. Strolling through downtown Leeds reveals a patchwork of eras, from the cast-iron and mosaic elegance of the Victoria Quarter to the soaring glass canopy of Trinity Leeds. Independent boutiques thrive within the historic Corn Exchange, while flagship brands anchor pedestrianized streets steps away. Leeds invites you to look up while you shop. Leeds owes much of its retail charm to the city's rapid expansion during the 19th century, when the textile industry brought wealth and ambition to Yorkshire. As mills and factories transformed the region, the city center became a showcase of Victorian architecture, much of which still defines the shopping experience today. Designed to protect shoppers from the unpredictable northern weather, the covered arcades of Leeds combined function with style. Glass ceilings, decorative tiling, and intricate ironwork created elegant spaces that elevated everyday commerce. The Victoria Quarter is an historic shopping arcade in downtown Leeds. David Nikel Far from being relics, these arcades have been carefully restored and adapted for modern use. The Grand Arcade, Thornton's Arcade, and Queen's Arcade each offer their own distinct atmosphere, but the standout is the Victoria Quarter, where intricate stonework and an impressive stained-glass window create a setting as impressive as the boutiques within. Anchored by a Harvey Nichols store set within a restored former theatre, the Victoria Quarter is home to luxury fashion brands and contemporary art galleries, all framed by exquisite 19th-century design, fully restored and glazed over in the late 20th-century. Just across the street, Victoria Gate continues the theme in a striking modern form. Inspired by the lines and craftsmanship of the original arcades, its bold geometric facade and sweeping interiors host a John Lewis department store, serving as a modern counterpart to the grandeur of its Victorian neighbor. Leeds Corn Exchange: A Circular Icon Reinvented If the arcades are a tribute to Victorian elegance, Leeds Corn Exchange is a bold example of how historic architecture can evolve. Completed in 1864 as a trading hall for grain merchants, the building was designed by Cuthbert Brodrick, the same architect behind Leeds Town Hall. Its domed roof and circular interior made it a marvel of its time, both structurally and stylistically. The coffee shop is a natural social space at the heart of Leeds Corn Exchange. David Nikel After falling into disuse in the late 20th century, the Corn Exchange has undergone a thoughtful revival. Today, it operates as a hub for independent retailers and artists. Indie Makers and The Great Yorkshire Shop are among the stores selling local wares and souvenirs, while Fabulous Planning is a family-run stationary shop with a focus on notebooks and planners. Shop Japanese gifts and fashion at Giant Kitten or pick up some deli items for a leisurely lunch at The Cheesy Living Co. The curved balconies and central atrium create a naturally social space, the perfect spot for the popular coffee shop and a weekend market. Old Meets New At Leeds' Kirkgate Just a short walk from the arcades and the Corn Exchange lies Kirkgate, one of the oldest streets in Leeds and a reminder of the city's commercial roots. The area is anchored by Kirkgate Market, a sprawling indoor market that has been in operation since 1857 and famously served as the launchpad for Marks & Spencer, which began as a penny stall here in 1884. Today, the market is a lively mix of fresh food vendors, street eats, textiles, and budget-friendly household goods. It offers a different pace from the more polished arcades and shopping centers, but that contrast is part of its charm. Big Names At Trinity Leeds When it opened in 2013, Trinity Leeds marked a new chapter for the city's retail scene. Leeds Trinity is dominated by this soaring glass dome. David Nikel Designed to unify several previously disconnected shopping streets, the development reimagined the traditional mall by blending indoor and outdoor spaces beneath a dramatic glass canopy. The result is a striking architectural statement that feels both contemporary yet still connected to the streetscape around it. Its open-air walkways, sweeping roof structure, and public art including a giant leaping horse sculpture create a sense of scale and movement. Trinity houses a wide range of high street brands, a food hall, bars and a boutique cinema, positioning itself as a day-to-night destination. Unlike many modern malls that could be anywhere, Trinity feels rooted in the city with the tower of Holy Trinity Church visible through the glass roof. It complements the older arcades rather than competes with them, proving that thoughtful design can help a city grow without losing its character. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes Why London's British Museum Remains A Must-See Despite Controversies By David Nikel Forbes Why Joining Britain's National Trust Is A Travel Bargain By David Nikel Forbes The Coolcation Trend Is Heating Up, And The Numbers Prove It By David Nikel
Forbes
21-06-2025
- Forbes
How To See The Best Of Bergen On A Norway Cruise
This iconic view of Bergen is easy to get thanks to the funicular railway Fløibanen, easy to do independently for cruise ship visitors. David Nikel Bergen remains Norway's top cruise destination, even as other ports like Ålesund and Tromsø grow in popularity. In 2024, the city welcomed 328 cruise ships and nearly 600,000 passengers. With even higher numbers expected in 2025, Bergen continues to cement its reputation as the leading gateway to Norway for cruise travelers. Why so popular? Bergen is ideally placed for Norwegian fjords cruises but also as a pit-stop on longer itineraries to the Arctic. It's also the starting point for the Norwegian coastal express, which offers daily departures on the cruise ferries of Hurtigruten or Havila. Surrounded by seven mountains and steeped in maritime history, Norway's second-largest city offers intriguing architecture and cultural heritage, but with easy access to the best of Norwegian nature. The waterfront area of Bergen can get busy on a warm summer day. David Nikel Even better? The compact cruise terminal places you just minutes from the heart of the action. Where Cruise Ships Dock In Bergen Most cruise ships dock at Skolten or Bontelabo, two piers located just a short walk from Bergen's historic city center. These are working port areas, so passengers may be required to follow a designated pedestrian route when disembarking. Signs and port staff help ensure everything runs smoothly. On occasions when exceptionally large cruise liners visit, they may berth at Jekteviksterminalen, a dedicated terminal a bit farther out. In those cases, shuttle buses or coordinated transfers typically bring passengers into the city center. If you're planning to explore Bergen independently, it's worth checking your docking location at Bergen Port Authority in advance. Just keep in mind that berth assignments can change at short notice. Things To Do In Bergen Near The Cruise Port Wherever your ship docks, many of Bergen's main attractions are easily accessible, whether by foot or a quick shuttle ride. A postcard-perfect row of colourful wooden buildings, Bryggen is one of the most iconic and accessible sights from the cruise port. Once the heart of the Hanseatic League's trading empire in Norway, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is now home to artisan workshops, independent galleries, and cosy cafes. The colorful facades of Bryggen, the UNESCO World Heritage site at the heart of Bergen, Norway. David Nikel Step into the narrow alleyways behind the facades to soak up the medieval atmosphere and discover a quieter side away from the busy main street. Just five minutes from Bryggen lies the lower station of Fløibanen, a funicular railway that whisks you up Mount Fløyen in under 10 minutes. From the top, you'll enjoy outstanding views of the city and surrounding mountains. Other than exploring easy walking trails or grabbing a coffee with a view, seek out the playful troll statues nestled in the forest (Trollskogen) for a dose of Norwegian culture and a memorable adventure in nature. Bergen's central area is wonderfully walkable from the piers. Take in the 13th‑century Rosenkrantz Tower, admire the grand facades around Torgallmenningen, and browse independent boutiques along Strandgaten. Between Bryggen and the main square, the Fish Market (Fisketorget) offers seafood stands and other local delicacies in a lively atmosphere. It's busier with tourists these days but remains a fun stop for quick bites like salmon, shrimp, or a taste of reindeer sausage. Worthy Cruise Excursions In Bergen Bergen is one of those rare ports where you definitely don't need an organized tour to enjoy your day. But if you're keen to see more than the city center, or dig deeper into Norwegian culture and nature, there are some excellent cruise excursions worth considering. Edvard Grieg's Home at Troldhaugen: One of Norway's most celebrated composers, Edvard Grieg spent much of his life in a lakeside villa just outside Bergen. Today, Troldhaugen is a museum dedicated to his life and work, featuring his preserved home and beautiful gardens. Cruise excursions typically include a short recital of Grieg's music, which adds a special dimension to the visit. It's a relatively short trip and often bundled up with a city tour, making it ideal for a half-day outing. Hardangerfjord in the summer. getty Hardangerfjord Day Trip: If you're craving a taste of Norway's dramatic natural beauty, a day trip to the Hardangerfjord could be the highlight of your cruise, especially if your itinerary is light on fjord sailings or you've visited Bergen before. Famous for its photogenic waterfalls and blossoming fruit orchards, the Hardanger region is a favorite among Norwegians for its richness in both natural beauty and cultural heritage. Excursions vary, with some traveling exclusively by coach, while others include a scenic fjord cruise as part of the journey. Bergen Travel Tips Bergen's weather is famously unpredictable, and frequent light rain is all part of Bergen's charm. Even during summer, it's wise to pack a lightweight waterproof jacket, sturdy walking shoes, and layerable clothing like wool sweaters and scarves to stay comfortable, especially if you're heading into the hills or on a fjord excursion. Spring and early summer in Bergen is festival season. For example, Bergen International Festival runs late May to early June and is a major cultural highlight, filling the city with music, theatre, dance and many thousands of visitors. If your cruise stop coincides with a major event, expect busy streets, full restaurants, and limited availability of taxis. Consider booking entry and seats in advance, particularly for concerts featuring Edvard Grieg's music. Even rides on the funicular may have longer queues thanks to increased foot traffic. MORE FROM FORBES Forbes How To Plan A Norwegian Fjords Cruise In 2025 By David Nikel Forbes Why European Cruise Itineraries Don't Always Tell The Full Story By David Nikel Forbes Avoid These 10 Rookie Mistakes On Your First Cruise By David Nikel
Forbes
01-05-2025
- Forbes
Avoid These 10 Rookie Mistakes On Your First Cruise
Norway is a popular destination for first-time cruisers. David Nikel Booking your first cruise can be exciting, as cruise lines continue to expand their offerings with bigger ships, broader itineraries, and new experiences at sea. But for passengers new to cruising, this variety can also be overwhelming. It is easy to fall into common traps that can impact your enjoyment, and your budget. Here are ten of the most common mistakes first-time cruisers make, along with practical tips to help you avoid them. Not all cruise lines are created equal. Some focus on family-friendly activities, while others cater to older travelers or those looking for a more refined experience. Choosing based solely on price or itinerary is a mistake many first-timers make. Research each cruise line's typical clientele, entertainment style, dining options, and atmosphere. For example, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer large resort-style ships with extensive onboard entertainment like water slides and shows, while Cunard and Holland America lean toward traditional cruising with a quieter, more formal feel. Even within the same cruise line, ships can vary significantly in size, style, and onboard atmosphere. For instance, P&O Cruises operates both Arvia and Iona, which are large, family-friendly megaships, but the line also owns Aurora, a smaller, adults-only ship offering a much more traditional cruising experience. While it is possible to arrive in your embarkation city the morning of your cruise, it is a significant risk. Delayed or canceled flights, missed connections, and even traffic can result in a stressful day, or even a missed departure. Unless you live close to the port, plan to arrive at least one day in advance. This is especially important when international travel is involved. Cruise Blog's Elizabeth Wright said that starting your vacation with peace of mind is worth the cost of one night in a hotel: "Instead of relying on luck and hoping my flight departs on time, I prefer to fly out the night before. This way, I can have a relaxing embarkation morning that isn't plagued with anxiety over whether I'll make the ship." Packing too much is a common mistake among first-time cruisers. Cabins typically offer limited storage, and many newcomers overpack, assuming they will need multiple outfits per day. "Most cruising these days is casual, and you really only need a few outfits to rotate through a voyage," explained The Points Guy's Gene Sloan, who added that in the worst-case scenarios, it's always possible to do laundry on board. However, there are key items you should not forget. Bring a carry-on with essential items for embarkation day, such as medications, swimwear, and a change of clothes. It can take several hours for your checked luggage to arrive at your cabin. Also, check your cruise line's rules in advance. Items like travel irons, kettles, and surge-protected power strips are usually prohibited. Most major cruise lines now offer mobile apps that are essential tools once onboard. These apps allow you to check the daily schedule, make dining reservations, book activities, view your onboard account, and sometimes even unlock your cabin door. Download and log into the app before you arrive at the port. Internet access may be limited at sea, but most apps function through the ship's internal network,without needing to buy an expensive internet package. Beverage packages are heavily promoted by all cruise lines and can appear to offer good value. However, they are not always the best financial choice. The cost of these packages varies by cruise line and itinerary. In many cases, you would need to consume a high number of alcoholic beverages per day to break even. Consider your usual drinking habits, how many days you will spend at sea (on which you'll likely consume more), and what beverages are already included in your fare. Some packages also include non-alcoholic drinks, specialty coffees, and bottled water, which may improve the value for some travelers. Buffet restaurants are convenient, but relying on them exclusively means missing out on elevated dining experiences. Most cruise lines offer main dining rooms with table service, multi-course menus, and often higher-quality food. These are included in your fare and can provide a more relaxing and enjoyable mealtime experience. In some cases, you are not even limited to one starter or main course. Don't forget that main dining rooms are typically open for breakfast too, and usually lunch on sea days. This environment is often a much calmer way to start your day than the bustle of the breakfast buffet. Cruise lines offer a wide range of shore excursions, but they are often priced at a premium. While they can be convenient, especially in complex or remote destinations, not every port requires a guided tour. Research your destinations in advance. In some cases, attractions are within walking distance or easily reached by public transportation, taxi, or a local sightseeing bus. You may be able to plan your own day ashore for a fraction of the cost. While many cruise experiences are included in your fare, extras can add up quickly. This includes specialty dining, drinks, spa treatments, Wi-Fi access, laundry services, and gratuities. Most cruise lines allow you to track your spending through the app or your cabin television. Check your account regularly to avoid surprises at the end of your trip and to catch any billing errors early. Cruise lines often run special offers on spa treatments, fitness classes, and specialty dining. However, these are often on port days when many passengers are ashore. If there is a premium experience you are interested in, check for promotions either on embarkation day or during quieter times. Booking a massage or dinner on a port day can save money and provide a more peaceful experience. With so much going on, from shows and trivia games to water slides and wine tastings, it is easy to overschedule yourself. Many first-time cruisers make the mistake of trying to attend every event and eat in every venue, only to burn out midway through the trip. The golden rule is to pace yourself. If a particular port does not interest you, consider staying on board to enjoy the ship while it is quieter. Taking a slower approach allows you to appreciate the cruise experience rather than rushing through it. Cruising can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to travel, but only if you plan accordingly. By avoiding these common mistakes, you will be better prepared to enjoy your time at sea and make the most of your first cruise.
Forbes
07-04-2025
- Forbes
Why This Cruise Ship Still Charms After 25 Years At Sea
The best feature of 'Aurora'? This wonderful tiered space at the back of the ship. David Nikel Step aboard P&O Cruises' Aurora and you'll quickly sense you're on a different kind of cruise ship. Launched in 2000 and now the smallest vessel in the fleet, this 1,874-passenger ship may not offer robotic bartenders or water slides, but it makes up for it with elegant design, tiered aft decks perfect for sailaways, and a calm, grown-up atmosphere you won't find on the newest megaships. A scheduled dry dock in April 2025 will bring refreshed interiors and modern touches, but the heart of Aurora—its spacious outdoor areas, distinctive design, and adults-only ambience—will remain unchanged. In fact, it's these very features that make the ship so well-suited to scenic itineraries like the Norwegian fjords, Mediterranean escapes, and winter sailings in search of the northern lights. Aurora offers something increasingly rare in the cruise world: space to breathe. Yet to call Aurora a small ship isn't entirely fair. When she first launched in 2000, her 76,000-ton size and capacity for around 1,874 guests placed her firmly in the 'large ship' category. But fast forward 25 years and the cruise industry has changed dramatically. The relatively small size of 'Aurora' means it can dock in Alta, Norway. P&O Cruises Today, ships like Arvia and Iona regularly carry more than 5,000 passengers each, complete with high-tech entertainment, vast atriums, and onboard attractions that rival theme parks. Against that backdrop, Aurora feels delightfully different. Once you've figured out some of the quirks such as how to reach the main dining rooms, you'll rarely need to consult a map to find your way around. It rarely takes more than a few minutes to get from one end of the ship to the other, and long lines are few and far between—even on busy sea days. There are a few compromises, of course. Cabins are more compact than those on today's newer ships, though they still offer ample storage. But with so much to enjoy elsewhere on board, it's easy to overlook a slightly snugger stateroom. For those who find the size and crowds of modern megaships overwhelming, Aurora offers a welcome return to a more relaxed, human-scale cruising experience. There's a clear design shift in today's cruise ships: more emphasis on interior space, less on connecting with the sea. On many newer vessels, it's possible to spend days on board without catching more than a glimpse of the ocean. Aurora, on the other hand, was built for looking outwards. There is a wraparound promenade deck on 'Aurora' popular with guests when the weather allows. David Nikel One of her standout features is the traditional wraparound promenade deck—an increasingly rare find in modern shipbuilding. It's not just a charming nod to classic ocean liners; it's a practical feature too. Three and a bit laps make up a mile, making it ideal for a morning stroll or logging some steps when the weather allows. Then there's the tiered aft, a beautifully designed cascade of open decks that creates the perfect setting for sailaways, sunset watching, or simply soaking up the view. Up top, the sports court and generous sundecks offer plenty of space to unwind, without the bustle of splash zones or family-focused attractions. You won't find water slides, climbing walls, or kids' clubs on Aurora—and that's exactly the point. As an adults-only ship, Aurora caters to a different kind of cruise experience, where the focus is on relaxation, enrichment-focused entertainment, and quiet moments with a sea view. That's not to say it's all peace and quiet. The pub—arguably the beating heart of any British cruise ship—is rarely still. Whether it's live music, a soccer game on the big screen, or a lively trivia contest, there's always something happening. Enrichment talks fill the theater on 'Aurora'. David Nikel For night owls, the Masquerade lounge transforms into the go-to late night venue, with everything from karaoke to silent discos keeping the dance floor busy into the early hours. With no need to cater to children, public spaces like lounges, bars, and sun decks tend to feel more spacious. Perhaps the only exception was the coffee shop, where tables were often full by mid-morning as guests awaited their caffeine fix. But as many soon discovered, the same barista-made coffee is available at all of the ship's bars—usually without the wait. Dry docks are essential for keeping ships running smoothly, from technical maintenance in the engine room to replacing worn-out fittings. But they're also a chance to give older vessels a fresh lease of life—and Aurora's upcoming dry dock in April 2025 will do just that. The ship will be out of service for just over two weeks while work is carried out in Rotterdam. Alongside the usual behind-the-scenes upkeep, many of Aurora's bars, restaurants, and public areas will receive updated décor, new furniture, and refreshed colour schemes. Cabins will be spruced up with new soft furnishings and mattresses, while poolside areas and sun decks are getting new furniture and finishes too. The aim isn't to reinvent Aurora, but to keep her feeling fresh for the years ahead—without losing the character that makes the traditional cruise ship so well loved.
