I had a wonderful experience just before the year 2023 ended. As a crew member of the cruise ship Balmoral, I had the opportunity to embark on a journey up in the northern part of Norway to witness the breathtaking northern lights. It’s become somewhat of a tradition for us, as we do this almost every winter. I’m not sure why the Balmoral is always chosen for this type of cruise, but it’s always a privilege to be a part of it. And let me tell you, seeing the northern lights with my own eyes was truly a magical experience, unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. I’m so grateful to have been a part of it and to have seen its full actuality, rather than just a photoshopped image.
In addition to seeing the northern lights, I was thrilled to be surrounded by the kind of winter wonderland that I had only ever seen in pictures. I’ll never forget the excitement I felt when I finally got to experience a white Christmas landscape in person. Before digital Christmas cards became the norm, I used to admire these picturesque scenes on paper cards. So, when I finally got to experience the beauty of a white Christmas in person, it was such a magical moment! Seeing the northern lights was amazing, of course, but being surrounded by the kind of winter wonderland that I had only ever seen in pictures – it was truly unforgettable!
Checking on the ship’s itinerary, this coming February, it sounds like I have something really exciting to look forward to! The Balmoral will again be heading out on another cruise to Norway and I am so excited because I’ll get another chance to see the stunning Northern Lights. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I’ll get to see them in all their glory. But I’m trying not to get my hopes up too high, as the Northern Lights can be quite elusive at times.
But to see the northern lights or not, the best part is that when the ship arrives in Tromso, I’ll be flying back home to the Philippines to be with my loved ones once more. Can’t wait for that day to come!
