Northern lights: Where to see the best light show

For some of the best northern light shows in the world, every traveler should include plans to go north to view the fantastic light show that nature puts on every year. It is a spectacular phenomena known as Aurora Borealis that lights the northern skies in several countries throughout the world. Scientists believe the lights peak at the end of each 11-year cycle, and 2013 is expected to be a peak year.

According to Fodor’s, a travel review site, http://www.fodors.com, the lights should be their brightest in the spring and fall of the year. Authorities say the best northern lights viewing is in Norway, where they claim the lights first show their fantastic colors each year between October and February. The Norwegians believe that because of their polar nights and northern proximity on the planet, the lights are easier to see. The optimal conditions are possible because of the cold nights with few clouds. The atmospheric gases come together to create breathtaking curtains of colors that can last for days. Cruises along the coast lines of Alta, Tromsa, Svalbard and Finmark are also popular. Cruise officials will issue wake-up calls in time for guests to view the lights on deck.

Fairbanks, Alaska is another favorite to view the “aurora oval.” Locals claim the brightest occurrences happen here more often than anywhere else in the world. According to the Fairbanks Visitors Bureau, there is an 80 percent chance of viewing the phenomena if you are there three nights in a row. Denali, Anchorage, Juneau and Sitka are also positioned well for optimal viewing.

Canadians believe some areas in Canada provide year-round viewing of the lights. The mountains and tundra’s at the northern-most parts are the most likely to offer spectacular views. The tundra of Nunavut in northeast Canada, the Yukon, located in the mountains to the northwest, Yellowknife, Quebec, Alberta, Manitoba and Labrador all offer great viewing sites.

Iceland, located between North America and Europe, offers some spectacular views along Lake Myvatn. Travelers can fly into the country, schedule tours or drive themselves for an unforgettable trip through Iceland.

Content Provided by Spot55.com

Share this story!
Treating yourself right… Finally!
Retirement isn't just about covering your living expenses in your older age, it's about living well. Here are three tips to do just that....
FIND SECURITY WITH A SOLID RETIREMENT PLAN
Achieving financial independence is key to enjoying a satisfying retirement. Social Security has many tools to help you plan for your future. Today in Washington...

Related

Discovering Austin: The live music capital of the world
Looking for a great vacation destination? Austin Texas is the perfect getaway for music lovers, sports lovers, and nature lovers....
Senior travel tips: How to identify bed bugs and keep yourself safe
Find out what you can do to detect bed bugs and prevent them from coming home with you from vacation....
Best places to visit this Fall
Some of the country's most famous spots are also the most popular in October, offering breathtaking views of fall foliage....
Rekindling the spark: Timeless romantic destinations
You don't have to wait for Valentine's Day to try to rekindle your romantic spark. In fact, your better half will probably appreciate it if...
Important dos and don’ts for staying safe during your national park vacation
If you’re thinking of taking a vacation to a national park, safety should be your first concern. Check out our list of dos and don’ts...
From sea to shining sea: the most patriotic things to see and do on your summer vacation
Summer isn’t just the season of no school and summer vacations. It’s also the most patriotic season in America, encompassing three iconic American holidays –...

BE IN THE KNOW

NWPT-Subscribe

Recent Posts

Seattle Senior Resource Fair
Pick a peck of purple pickled onions
A New Lens on Dementia Care
Sent Across the Nation
Enjoy a Door County Tradition When You Experience a Fish Boil

BE IN THE KNOW

NWPT-Subscribe

Recent Posts

Seattle Senior Resource Fair
Pick a peck of purple pickled onions
A New Lens on Dementia Care
Sent Across the Nation
Enjoy a Door County Tradition When You Experience a Fish Boil