On returning to Oslo, it was fun meeting up with the people I had met before and I was lucky to be in the same room which I shared with a pleasant Swedish girl, Anneka, who I made friends with.
Haraldsheim is a very convenient YHA with great facilities and helpful staff. Nor did I feel uncomfortable being older.
Kristin wanted to keep Sacha so I let her.
I bought an Oslo card which includes travel and entry to loads of museums.
First stop was the Munch Museum ( Edward Munch famous picture The Scream. I ended up queuing for over an hour in the rain. It was worth it and they made it more interesting by comparing him and Van Goch.
On the way to take the boat to the Polar Ship Fram Museum, I slipped on the wet marble flooring and landed badly on my shoulder. The museum was amazing covering the North west passage and Amundsen. I could have spent hours in there.
However, ran out of time and went to collect Sacha. Kristin is an amazing but strange lady. She has represented Norway in cross country skiing and running. She come from a well to do and connected family. Her father used to be friends and sail with the previous king. I think she has something like Aspergers as she feels the need to swear in all the many languages she knows. She smokes like a chimney which I find difficult. It ended up with Sacha staying there another night.
The next day was constitution day and I went into the city hoping to visit the National gallery which was closed. However it was good seeing every one dressed in the much embroidered national dress.
As Kristina put it. In Russia there is a great display of tanks and rockets whereas in Oslo you have children carrying flags and smiling and rejoicing that they are free.
Prised Sacha away from Kristina and visited Holmenkollen and the famous ski jumps as it was nearby.
Then drove to Hoysand where I had stayed before. It was less relaxed this time as there were people celebrating by visiting this peaceful spot. In the morning the water was like a mirror- absolutely still. So beautiful to wake up to that view. See photo.
I was a little worried as 3 fuel stations would not accept my card and I was running low. Eventually found one that worked. Also there were some notices regarding tolls. They get your number and bill you later. I have no idea how much it will be.
It was time to leave Norway and back to Sweden.