From Hotel Isfjord Radio, Svalbard

Firstly, thank you all for the great response to the last two journal entries. I don't think I have ever had two images on Spotlight at the same time.



After yesterday's early morning phototrek we were picked up to make the complex trip to Hotel Isjford Radio. No driving, at least in the normal sense. We were taken to a warehouse where we donned extreme survival suits, before being taken to the Polarcirkel boat that would transport us to the Hotel. These fast, reinforced, inflatable boats travel upto 45 knots. Harri, our guide got us to sit straddling one of two long benches on the boat and we headed out. Had we not been wearing the suits I doubt I would have thawed out yet!



When we arrived at the hotel, almost 3 hours later we were met by Lea with a warming apple drink, laced with calvados. It was only after this did we realise we were the only guests at the hotel! The sense of this being a special moment in our lives was easy to recognise. This would be a one of those 'never to be forgotten' moments.

The next day was a boat safari taking in local sites. We saw (but failed to photograph) a glacier calving ice in spectacular fashion. Wildlife was somewhat less forthcoming, but it was special for all that. This was the scene on returning to the hotel, looking towards a local mountain range.