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This European destination has 'stolen' Aussie hearts

First it was the UK, then it was Rome, this was quickly followed by France, Spain, Germany and now Norway is the must-visit European destination for Australian travellers.

First it was the UK, then it was Rome, this was quickly followed by France, Spain, Germany and now Norway is the must-visit European destination for Australian travellers.

Speaking to KarryOn, Bentours’ Product Manager Ryan Bennett, said the destination famous for its mountains, glaciers and deep coastal fjords has ‘stolen the hearts of Aussies’ in recent years.

This comes as Australian visitation to Europe exceeds 540,000 a year – 51.6 percent more than a decade earlier. Repeat visitors are looking for new and unique locations.

In comes Norway with its view of the Northern Lights, ice hotels and snow igloos.

Northern Lights

“Coastal voyages and fjords tours, as well as Spitsbergen adventures to see the polar bears, are high on the list!”

Ryan Bennett, Bentours Product Manager

“Also, it’s the totally unique experiences such as being accommodated in Ice Hotels and snow igloos with glass topped roofs giving incredible star-gazing opportunities,  are very much ‘bucket list’ destinations (like Antarctica) and activities (husky-sleigh rides) for many travellers.”

It’s for similar reasons Bennett says Iceland has also ‘hot’ right now along with Sweden, Denmark and Finland.

As a specialist in Scandinavian tours, the product manager did admit itineraries in Russia and Crimea have experienced less demand due to ongoing political crisis in the country.

Iceland Cave 2

He said like other operators, Bentours is no longer able to promote product to the destination, however, core Russian components focusing on Moscow and St.Petersburg are still popular.

“Cruising the Volga River is in demand, due to our huge savings and special offers that will immerse the traveller in the Russian culture and expose them to the historical elements of this fascinating country.”

Ryan Bennett, Bentours Product Manager

Have you visited Norway?