Hello Darling!
Our European Babymoon was truly a trip we will remember forever and we are so excited to finally share part one with you today. We kicked off this trip in the most special way possible- with our sweet friends wedding in Norway. We had already had this trip booked months before we found out we were pregnant So when we found out the big news decided it would be the perfect time to make it into a European Babymoon. Hunter and I had always dreamed of traveling to across the pond together before we had kids and we took this as a sign and opportunity to do just that.
Our European Babymoon Part 1
Day 1
Flight #1 Houston – New York
Our trip started off with a flight from Houston to New York City. We flew into JFK and had quite a long layover so decided to check out the TWA hotel located right within JFK airport. The newly restored 1962 TWA Flight Center turned hotel is like taking a step back in time. We ventured in, sat down for a snack and drinks, then watched as the magic happened around us. From the employees uniforms, to the old historic TWA airplane outside you can walk through, it was a dream! Because we were there during Christmas time, we were able to also enjoy shows on their outdoor iceskating rink. It was the most fun, and unexpected start to our trip.
Flight #2 New York- Oslo
Our second flight was overnight with Norwegian Air, and I have to say we were very happy with this flight and airline. It was our first time flying with Norwegian Air but after much research decided this was the best option. Especially because of their incredible prices! We did opted for the premium tickets. It was a slight difference in price but nothing too outrageous. This ticket included fast track check in, 2 bags each, comfortable reclining seats with extra leg room, premium meals ( for us we received dinner and breakfast ) and of course free entertainment and snacks. Totally worth the upgrade, especially for this pregnant momma! We both were beyond pleased with this flight and could not recommend this airline more!
Day 2
Arriving in Oslo
We arrived in Oslo around 12pm the next day and went straight to baggage claim. We had several friends who opted to travel by train from the airport however, with being pregnant Hunter felt more comfortable with us having a form of transportation for comfort and safety- just in case of an emergency. The great thing is that in Norway they drive on the right side of the road so we felt extremely comfortable renting a car. We booked our rental car in advance via Expedia to ensure an easy process. As soon as we left baggage claim we walked right out to the rental car area and were on our way. All rental cars in Norway are also prepared to drive in snow as we were visiting during December and it was truly a winter wonderland.
Lillehammer, Norway
The drive from Oslo to Lillehammer was a little over 2 hours. (Fun fact- Lillehammer is a ski-resort town where the 1994 Olympics took place.) It was such a beautiful drive. From the snow covered mountains, and the beautiful Fjords we were blown away! We opted to stay at Nermo Hotell where the wedding was being held and it was such a fun experience. This cozy boutique hotel was like stepping right into the movie White Christmas. Dating back to 1877, this family owned and operated hotel was a breath of fresh air. As you walk in you are greeted with a warm fire and smiling faces. We were truly blown away. They recently renovated their rooms and we found them to be extremely comfortable, and accommodating.
Day 3
Wedding day! We woke up this morning to views of beautiful snow, and decided to head down stairs to grab a bite to eat and explore around the area a bit. ( Travel note- important to remember that it gets dark around 3pm during this time of the year so we were unable to explore when we arrived the night before.) After exploring this quaint little ski town we headed back to get ready for a full day of wedding festivities.
It truly was one of the most special wedding celebrations we had ever had the privilege of being apart of. We spent the day with our best friends celebrating, eating, and dancing in the snow. I do have to mention that the food at Nermo was OUTSTANDING! We were served local cuisine from their on site restaurant and were blown away!
Day 4
Day 4 we woke up early to head back to Oslo. To be honest, if I had not been pregnant we would have probably stayed a few mores days to take advantage of the beautiful snow and go skiing. If you are in this area during the winter, I definitely recommend it!
Arriving Back in Oslo
We enjoyed our snowy ride back and made it to Oslo by lunch time and checked into the Grand Hotel Oslo. This beautiful and massive hotel is right in the heart of the city. Since we were only staying here for one night we were thankful to have it close to everything we wanted to see. Before heading out to explore we grabbed lunch at the Palmen located right within their lobby. (Travel note- I originally tried to make online reservations days before for their famous high tea but was told upon arrival that I did not specify high tea on the reservation therefore we were unable to enjoy. The tea looked beautiful so if you are interested in making high tea reservations I recommend emailing them rather than booking via their online reservation system as it can be a bit confusing.)
Exploring The City
After lunch we explored around the area for a few hours before it got dark. All within walking distance from the hotel we walked around Karl Johns Gate which houses the Royal Palace, Parliament, and National Theater. We then walked down to see the Oslo Fjord. Hunter loved this as they have beautiful massive boats on display.
Our favorite part of the day by far however was visiting the Christmas Market. During the holidays they have one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets I have ever seen. We spent the rest of the night walking around and enjoying all the food. From chocolate dipped waffles, hot chocolate, mulled wine, sausage, French potatoes and cheese and all the beautiful chocolates we were in HEAVEN!
Since this Market was only steps away from our hotel we really enjoyed it! Once we were too full to go on 😉 we went back to the hotel to get ready for our early morning flight off to our next destination on our European babymoon.
Norway was such a beautiful part of our trip! To be honest, it was not previously on my list of places to visit but can now say I am so glad we had the opportunity to do so. From the beauty of country, the sweet people and amazing food we have already said we would love to go back again and visit someday. If you are looking for a beautiful place to visit we could not recommend Norway more.
Winter In Norway Packing Essentials
For planning purposes, if you plan to visit during the winter season I have linked all my winter packing essentials I wore/used-
Make sure to stay tuned for parts two, three and four of our European babymoon coming soon.
YOU ARE SO LOVED!
