Vor Weihnachten nochmal kurz weg

Just before Christmas, a short trip is planned. Tomorrow, I have to get a COVID-19 test done before entering the ship. I have already registered for entry into Norway. I think two QR codes are a fair price for safety on board and on land.

Check-in and Day 1 on AIDAnova

I am traveling to Hamburg by train. When I arrive at the train station, I look for signs for the bus and taxi. Both options are suitable for me. AIDA offers a shuttle service, which is cheaper than a taxi, but I simply forgot to register for it. At the back exit of the train station building, there is a small AIDA pavilion that cannot be missed. I can drop off my suitcase and also book the shuttle for the return journey. Great! 😉

The ship is located in Steinwerder. It doesn't take long before I see the enormous ship. Yes, it is huge. The cruise terminal is bustling like an airport. Well, in times of COVID-19, it takes a bit longer here too. They conduct a PCR test on site, measure the temperature, check the vaccination status, take a current photo, and provide the boarding pass. MY TIP: Always bring a lanyard with you on cruise trips. This way, you have the card ready at all times and your hands are always free.

Finally, I board the ship. Deck 15 is high up - luckily there is an elevator. Balcony cabin - starboard side - perfect. The suitcase is already there, and my companion, a dear colleague, is also there. The only task left is the safety drill - it is the only mandatory event for all passengers on every cruise. It's quickly done, and now the journey can begin. The "Nova" departs at 6:00 pm. Every time, leaving the harbor is a very special moment.

Today, for dinner, we choose the buffet-style Market Restaurant. As expected, the Christmas theme is also evident here. The aroma of red cabbage fills the air, and there is home-style cooking, salads, meat, fish... and it is quite German here. The dessert is very tempting - and it tastes very good too.

And for those who are not too tired on the day of arrival, there is entertainment through the night in many bars and clubs, while the ship chugs its way to Norway. In the Beach Club (in the UV light-permeable foil dome), it feels like summer all year round. A really good band plays music that we like. So we dance for another one or two hours and then fall tired into bed.

Day 2 on AIDAnova and Arrival in Kristiansand, Norway

The sun is shining. It couldn't be more beautiful - blue sky and the water on the horizon. Breakfast is served today at the marina. The selection at the buffet is huge, and the staff is extremely friendly. After a hearty breakfast, we explore the endless decks, the numerous offerings that cannot be tried in three days, and the amazing views. Sunglasses are a must, and blankets are provided. The cappuccino is ordered. At the rear, in the Lanai Bar, we like it very much.

Sea day also means that the shops are open. Duty-free shopping is possible. The last Christmas presents can be bought. Very convenient. Well, I have everything. For lunch, we have a snack in the brewery.

At exactly 6:00 pm, we arrive in Kristiansand. The moon rises and I can't believe it. It looks like a giant Chinese lantern rising in the sky. And it's cold. Really cold. And dark. But we want to visit the Christmas market (it looks nice during the week, but it's not a highlight). The old town Posebyen is characterized by white wooden houses, which are characteristic of southern Norway, and yes, it was worth seeing them. They shine enchantingly and modestly in the dark night. I will definitely come back again. In summer. It's dark and cold in winter. Three hours are sufficient.

In the evening, we dine à la carte at "Oceans". We follow the waiter's recommendations and are not disappointed. It's damn delicious.

Afterwards, we briefly visit the brewery, but Schlager music is not really my thing ;-). How convenient that there is the Silent Night event in the Beach Club. I laughed sooo much. It was a really fun evening and it got later than expected again.

Day 3 on AIDAnova and Arrival in Kristiansand, Norway

Day 3 and another beautiful sea day, dedicated to 'Beauty and Wellness'. In the north, the sky is lit up with orange and purple colors, even though the sun has not yet risen. At 9:00 am, I have an appointment for a beauty treatment. Where else can you enjoy your time so much than on a cruise ship? The hour flies by. After that, I just do nothing. I gaze out at the sea and can't get enough of the view. I skip lunch. Instead, in the afternoon, I go to the sauna. Here in the wellness area, everyone can find their preferred temperature, lounge, and spot. Afterwards, I treat myself to a piece of cake and a delicious cappuccino. Yes! Christmas is coming too. But I don't think about it at all. And tonight, dinner is at EAST. This buffet offers not only Asian delicacies but much more. My Surf&Turf is secured - let's just say that I eat more than what hunger dictates. Who can say 'no' to that?

At the Theatrium, there is a show with music classics, and everyone joins in singing along. A nightcap at the bar and off to bed.

Day 4 on AIDAnova and the Journey Home

Snip snap! The wonderful journey comes to an end. I quickly glance at the onboard bill, have a delicious breakfast before the masses take their seats at 9:00 am (that's when the cabins are vacated), and enjoy the pictures of this trip for a long time. Actually, I didn't have any Christmas stress at all, everything was prepared at home and is still prepared. Enjoy life and discover the world. Traveling makes you happy :-)!