Day 9 - First White Christmas

[Yuan100]

Thank you @Katie for reaching out so I could keep everyone posted what I’ve been up to and to share my travel journey with you guys.

This year is filled with so many uncertainties where we learned to embrace ‘just go with the flow’. My partner supposed to come back to Asia in October but due to strict rules in Singapore, he’s unable to enter. After being apart for 5 months, I decided to go over. I never thought I would be in the Nordic countries to spend my first white Christmas. It’s kinda weird to be travelling during such a time. I am now writing from a small town in Norway as we’re doing our own self-quarantine for the next 10 days.

Before my trip, my friends helped to prepare a few items for safety precaution since I will be on the plane for a total of 13 hrs. It's better to be safe than sorry! Although my partner is from Norway, we decided to meet in Stockholm because Singapore is exempted from quarantine.

PPE, all kind of wipes, masks, disinfectant, gloves and hand sanitisers Bringing my starter along because I will be baking my own bread during quarantine In my funky PPE 

I transited in Doha for 2 and a half hours. For my first leg of the trip Singapore - Doha passengers did observe the rule of wearing a mask on board however on my second leg of the trip Doha- Stockholm it is not the same. I am a little anxious, to be honest especially when someone coughed. Yes, I am that paranoid!!  😅

View from above

We booked an Airbnb away from the city. It was a studio within a house with the host, Malin and her family staying beside us. Thou, the space is not that big but it’s enough for us both. The studio was very well equipped. She even prepared a few types of disinfectant near to the door. I really do appreciate how she took care of the place and the well being of her guests. She leaves 3 days gap in between each booking. 

Home for the next 2 nightsLittle decorsFully equipped kitchen

We managed to have one full day exploring Stockholm. However, at the back of my head, I am pretty guarded still. It seems everything is normal here. It was such a huge contrast from Singapore.

Exploring Gamla stan Stockholm city Trying to get used to the sun setting at 3pm

We crossed the border between Sweden and Norway by car. Of course, I did my covid test beforehand in Stockholm just in case there is a check at the border. We drove 6 hours thru some darkness and slippery roads. Nonetheless, we made it back home with some Indian food takeaways as a treat!

Woke up to snow

Living in a winter place is such an eye-opening experience for me (first-timer). Little things like scraping frozen ice from the car window shield, watching smokes coming out from the chimney or just sitting by the fireplace comforts me. I am happy I don't have to sweat when I cook or bake, even better when I pipped whipping cream it doesn't melt at all! I am still getting used to all these and loving each day to the fullest.

Sitting by the fireplace with my doughWhipping cream doesn't melt!A cup of hot chocolate

Despite such a year, I am still able to tick off my yearly goal which is to visit one new country every year. I am counting my blessings and feeling grateful every day to be able to spend this time with my partner. I also look forward to visiting my ex-guest who is residing in Oslo. Back when we met 7 years ago, we didn't expect we would end up with a Norwegian partner. It's funny how things come together.  

I hope everyone here able to spend this Christmas with your loved ones. What is your family Christmas traditions like? Any special dishes you guys would make? I would love to hear it because this is my first time celebrating a proper white Christmas! 

Sending you guys much love this Christmas season. Hope everyone here able to spend it with your loved ones.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! ❤️

Much much love from Norway!

Yuan

[Catherine-Powell]

@Yuan100 this is the most wonderful account. I felt like i was traveling with you. Growing up in Europe - White Christmases are the very best! i wish you a very happy holiday! Catherine

[Yuan100]

@Catherine-Powell thank you so much! I am still trying to get used to no sun and 5hrs of daylight here. Nonetheless, I am trying to get to make the best out of everyday thou with baking 😄

Wishing you and your family a merry Christmas! 

Yuan

[Miloud0]

Salute @Yuan100 , 

Thank you so much for sharing with us this nice and interesting topic

Many thanks, Merry Christmas and a Happy Holidays for you too 

Thanks, 

Miloud

[Yuan100]

@Miloud0 

Most welcome! 😄 Happy New Year to you!!

[Miloud0]

Salute, 

Thanks, many welcome to you too @Yuan100  

Thanks, 

Miloud

[Suzanne302]

@Yuan100  This was so fun to read and I love the pictures! I was able to live vicariously through you for just a moment as I dream of the day I can travel again! Merry Christmas to you and best wishes for a Happy New Year!

[Yuan100]

@Suzanne302 

Aww thank you! I hope we can all travel freely one day! Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year too!