As my story develops, I find myself compelled almost with a mystical fascination to head up into northern lands. Many centuries have passed since the period where my story begins and the land and people have changed dramatically but I feel compelled to visit. There is a knowledge one gains upon visiting a place with history. Writing for me begins with place. Being in a place helps me create new worlds and imagine new possibilities. So I have decided to go visit Svalbard, a northern island that is now considered part of Norway. I have wanted to visit Svalbard for many years ever since I first discovered the island's location as a child reading a geography book.

On route to Svalbard, I will have to pass through the Norwegian town of Tromso.