Finally! I’m back! Back where I belong, back in the place where I feel at home, back in the high Arctic!

The past two years were the first two years in many that I didn’t get to see Spitsbergen. Due to the pandemic, almost all expedition cruises were canceled, which made it very difficult for me to go there. But, with the restrictions ending and the virus seemingly less active, we can slowly start again. So… I’m back!

This time, I was asked to be bear guide on a smaller expedition cruise vessel on a trip specifically aimed to photograph these magnificent animals. The start of the trip was a bit difficult though. There was a lot of ice everywhere, but where were the bears… We did find a mother and cub in van Keulenfjord, but they had just eaten and had no interest in doing much. So, after waiting there for several hours, we decided to move on again, try our luck elsewhere.

But, despite the lack of bears, I was still enjoying the views, the animals and just being back again!
Congratulations, Arjen, on getting back to the Arctic. I am delighted, too, to be receiving your fantastic photos and experiences. Lovely guillemot photo. Best wishes for the times ahead.
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Great to hear your again up North, enjoyable ofcourse and somehow recharging after years of something else, hope to see you up there some time.
Cheers
Mika
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I’m so happy for your Arjan. Enjoy your stay in the high north and I hope that the bear expedition will be a succes for you. We hope to see more of it.
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