Ålesund - like food that tastes interesting

Do you know how it feels when someone describes a movie, a restaurant, a band, or a shop as incredibly wonderful? Superlatives are used, praised in the highest tones, and phrases like 'the absolute best, you have never seen, experienced, heard, tasted anything like this!' are said. In brief: expectations are raised high and can often lead to disappointment.

Unfortunately, I experienced this today with Ålesund. There was talk of a picturesque town, wonderful ambiance from the Jugendstil-built old town, and it being the most beautiful city in Norway. Naturally, I had high expectations. The architecture is indeed beautiful, and the fact that the sun has been shining all day is truly a dream. However, I just can't quite get into Ålesund today.

We first headed to Aksla, and yes, the view from here over the city and out to the sea is impressive. Perfect weather for a classic snapshot, a few people around, but thankfully not too many, making it a nice start.

Afterward, we made our way into the city from our parking spot. Today is our very first time at a motorhome parking spot in the city. And that's one of the best parts of our visit here; the view is fantastic, and everything looks very clean and well-maintained. I had more concerns beforehand, but this is a pleasant surprise.

However, it became somewhat dull afterward. As I said, I think my expectations were too high. The city is fairly busy with cruise ships, and in my imagination, it should be as impressive as Bergen. That hasn't been the case for me.

I was also excited that I might find something nice to shop for as a souvenir. Unfortunately, I didn't find anything. Three or four souvenir shops with similar products, all tailored to the cruise ships, but otherwise, there were partially empty storefronts or large brand houses that I can find in abundance back home.

If the city were then aesthetically pleasing, as was the case in Trondheim, that wouldn’t be so bad. But I don't find the architecture all that outstanding. Thus, I wasn't particularly motivated to take photos today. Other than the old town buildings, the city feels almost loveless to me. Were we just in the wrong places? We have 7 km clocked in, so we’ve definitely made quite a few steps, and the city isn’t that large.

So we head back to the parking spot and better plan the next few days while enjoying a tea and then a sparkling wine packed from home.

Maybe a day like this is also necessary. I know there will be highlights again on this vacation; we still have a few stops ahead of us and tomorrow we are heading to the Geirangerfjord.

It is said to be very beautiful as well. I suppose I should lower my expectations 😉