Reflections of the Norwegian Fjords and Solo Travel

Three weeks away… and still, it feels like I blinked and it was over. I've just returned from the most beautiful cruise through the Norwegian Fjords — a slow, soul-filling journey. More than just a holiday, it was a deep breath. The kind you don't realise you've been holding until you finally exhale.

The fjords themselves? Spellbinding. Towering cliffs draped with waterfalls and low cloud. Villages nestled in valleys like something from a storybook. And the light—soft, shifting, dancing across the water as if it had secrets to tell.

But what I’ll hold onto most is the stillness. The sense of being fully present. Unrushed mornings. Time to listen to my own thoughts. It reminded me how powerful travel can be—especially when you do it on your own terms, with space to think, feel, and reconnect.

That’s what I want for you, too.

It had been around seven years since my last visit to the fjords. Back then, I travelled in August with my mum, shortly after my dad had passed away. We stayed in an aft suite aboard Azura, and it was a deeply memorable trip.

This time, it was April, and I chose an inside cabin on Iona—same cruise line, very different experience. I love extremes.

I wasn’t sure what to expect. The thought of being on a ship with 5,000 people made me wary. Would there be any peace? Any space to breathe? But I was pleasantly surprised. Iona felt spacious, calm, and unexpectedly serene.

April, I’ve decided, is a perfect time to travel solo. There are fewer guests, and the towns and villages you visit are refreshed and welcoming—no signs yet of ‘tourist fatigue’. The inside cabin was warm and cosy, and I slept like a dream. No noise from neighbouring cabins either, which was a lovely surprise.

And the weather? Yes, sunshine always helps, but I’ve learned not to shy away from the shoulder seasons. The clouds added a moody beauty. The reflections in the lakes were mesmerising. And that sense of stillness, again—just perfect. If you enjoy nature, the walking trails were clear, the air was crisp, and the flora already lush.

One thing that made a huge difference this time was… no internet. I made the choice not to buy the Wi-Fi package, checking messages only when I was ashore. After the initial discomfort, it was the best decision. I felt truly present, able to switch off and enjoy my own company. As solo travellers, it’s natural to worry about staying connected—for our own peace of mind and that of our families—but sometimes, it’s okay to just be. In fact, we all need that.

Solo travel is about treating yourself. Being yourself. Doing what lights you up—whether that’s sleeping in, staying out late, or trying something new. It could be ticking off that dream destination, or getting gloriously lost and stumbling upon somewhere unexpected. And while it’s easy to stick to meals onboard (they’re included, after all), one of the joys of solo cruising is taking a little time out. Visit a local bakery, sip coffee in a hidden café, try something local and lovely—away from the buffet. There’s so much more flavour to be found off the ship. But more on that another time.

For now, I’ll leave you with Reflections of the Fjords—some images that, I hope, say more than words ever could.

So, are you ready to embark on the journey of a lifetime? The world is waiting for you, and I'm here to help you discover it. Join the Going Solo Facebook group and let's wander, connect, and grow—together.

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