Kristina and Vibeke

If you know me at all, you know how important good shower pressure is to my general happiness. Well, this shower in this wee little hotel room has not disappointed. It's like standing outside in very hot rain. The continental breakfast here has also been superb. Lots to choose from and lots of fellow travelers to ogle while we eat!

We're a little stiff and sore this morning after spending most of yesterday on our feet. We began by walking around the neighborhood that surrounds our hotel. The park across the street is home to a parliamentary building and we were able to catch a glimpse of the changing of the guard there. 

Then we walked to nearby Karl Johan's Gate, a restaurant and shopping promenade just a few blocks away. It was rather tourist-y, but still great for people watching. We ducked inside a pub just in time to avoid a 30 minute rain shower. And once our Ringnes Pils were finished, so was the rain!

Then we arranged to meet up with my old friend Kristina and her wife Vibeke at Aker Brygge near the shore. After deciding that Aker Brygge was definitely too tourist-y, we headed to an older part of the city with smaller shops/cafes and boutiques and a little more authenticity. After some more exploration, we decided to get some food. Kristina, Mom and Dad hopped in a cab and Vibeke and I grabbed bikes for the short trek to the cafe. The cafe sat on a sunny bluff near the ruins of the old city. Service was a little slow, but we had a great time chatting with Kristina and Vibeke about their time in Norway. Kristina has been living here for three years now. 

Our relative Ingrid has invited some of her family to join us for lunch today. So, in a few hours, we'll be heading up the hill near the historic ski jump to meet them.