Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and innovative approach to environmental sustainability, Norway is the ideal location for The Adventure Travel Trade Association's inaugural Climate Action Summit. The event will take place in two picturesque coastal Norwegian cities: Bergen and Ålesund, and an overnight sailing adventure aboard one of the world’s first hybrid electric ships will transport you between the two. 

Nestled amidst Norway’s stunning landscapes, these locations provide the perfect backdrop for discussions on innovation and climate action. Among Bergen’s breathtaking views and Ålesund’s quintessential Art Nouveau architecture, both cities are completely walkable and fully equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure, making eco-conscious travel decisions easy and enjoyable. 

Included in registration, participants will explore Norway’s majestic fjords on a night aboard Hurtigruten’s most energy efficient vessel, the MS Richard With. This is an exclusive opportunity to witness firsthand Norway’s commitment to an emission free future, exemplified by its ambitious goal for emission free fjords by 2026 and a fully electric automotive network. Experience the latest in eco-conscious travel, be inspired by the synergy of Norway’s cutting-edge sectors - from offshore wind to green maritime - and take home actionable insights that will transform your business.  

Please Note: The event will begin in Bergen and end in Ålesund. When booking transportation to The Summit it is recommended that participants do not buy a roundtrip ticket, instead book travel into Bergen and out of Ålesund. Meals, activities and the overnight stay on Hurtigruten's MS Richard With are all included in registration. Attendees are expected to cover the cost of travel to and from the conference, as well as accommodation in Bergen and Ålesund. See below for recommendations.

By Air 

Fly into Bergen Flesland International Airport (BGO), located ~18km from the city center and easily accessible by train, airport bus, taxi or uber. 

• Train: From the airport terminal take the Bergen Light rail line 1 (Bybanen). 45 minutes to the city center and costs NOK 44 ($4). 
• Bus: Take the Airport Bus (Flybussen). Board just outside the Flesland arrival terminal. 30 minutes to the city center and costs NOK 179 ($16). If staying at the recommended hotel in Bergen, Bergen Børs, we suggest taking the bus from the airport as it stops right outside of the hotel.  
• Taxi and Uber: Order at taxi or uber outside of the arrival terminal. 20-25 minutes to city center, prices vary but will cost around NOK 500 ($45). 

Convenient airports for flight layovers and connections are: Oslo Airport (OSL), Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), and Copenhagen Airport (CPH). 

By Train  

If you have some extra time, taking the train from Oslo to Bergen is an incredibly beautiful way to see the country, and a more sustainable option. The journey takes around 7 hours, tickets cost approximately $115, and reduces your carbon footprint by 67%. Learn more here.

Bergen

Participants will be expected to book their own accommodation for 2 nights in Bergen (October 29 and 30).

Hotel recommendation: Bergen Børs. A high end hotel right in the middle of Bergen with an airport bus stop right outside. Hotel block booking information coming soon. 

Hurtigruten Hybrid-Electric Vessel 

Overnight sailing from Bergen to Ålesund on Hurtigruten’s eco-friendly MS Richard With is included in registration. Proudly named after Hurtigruten’s founder, the ship has been upgraded to hybrid-electric power, cutting CO2 emissions by 25% and NOx emissions by 80%. Read more about Hurtigruten’s green fleet here. Enjoy cozy cabins, locally sourced organic cuisine, and breathtaking views of Norway’s famous fjords. 

Ålesund 

Attendees will be expected to book their own accommodation for one night in Ålesund (Nov 1). 

Hotel recommendation: Brosundet, located right on the canal. An incredibly beautiful historic property, formerly a fish factory. Hotel block booking information coming soon. 

By Air 

Fly out of Ålesund Vigra International Airport (AES), located ~17km from the city center and easily accessible by bus (20 mins, ~$5), taxi or Uber (16 mins, $30)   

By Train 

Please note, Ålesund is not on the national rail network. The public bus can link you to train stations outside of the city with connections to Oslo. 

29 October 2024 - Arrival 

Suggested arrival day, with an optional guided walking tour of Bergen and evening welcome dinner. Spend both nights in Bergen at a hotel of your choice, we recommend Bergen Børs. 

30 October 2024 - Program in Bergen

The Climate Action Summit will begin in the morning at Vestland Hall, with an opening keynote presentation followed by insight plenaries, roundtable discussions, and will finish with an evening networking dinner and art gala at Bergen’s Fresco Hall. 

31 October 2024 - Sailing to Ålesund 

After an invigorating keynote presentation and round table discussions, board Hurtigruten’s MS Richard With, one of the world’s first hybrid electric ships, for an overnight sail to Ålesund. Enjoy dinner and education sessions onboard.   

1 November 2024 - Program in Ålesund 

Arrive in Ålesund and check in to a local hotel of your choosing (Brosundet is the recommended hotel in Ålesund). Spend the morning exploring, kayaking, or hiking and enjoy a traditional hot-dog lunch. Finish up the event with a closing keynote and reflection session in the afternoon, followed by a farewell dinner. 

2 November 2024 - Departure 

Depart from Ålesund, or stay a few extra days for optional post-tours to experience sustainable, and innovative Norwegian products and solutions.  Post tour information will be posted shortly.

Passports & Travel Visa 

Passport: Norway requires visitors to have a passport with a minimum validity period. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Norway. 

Visa: US and Canadian passport holders require no visa or pre-authorization to enter Norway. Citizens of certain countries require a Schengen Visa to visit Norway, as well as other countries in the Schengen Area, for short stays (up to 90 days within a 180 day period). Generally citizens outside of the European Union (EU), and European Economic Area (EEA) require a Schengen Visa to enter Norway. It is recommended to check the official website of the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration (UDI) to determine your visa requirements based on your nationality. 

Languages: 

Norwegian and Sámi are the two official languages of Norway. Norwegian is the most widely spoken language in the country, and English is the second most widely spoken. 

Electricity 

Norway operates on a 230-volt electrical system with a frequency of 50 Hz. The plug type used in Norway is the European standard Type C (two round pins) and Type F (two round pins with two grounding clips on the side). If your electronic devices use plugs different from these types, you may need a plug adapter to charge them. 

Most modern electronic devices, such as laptops and smartphones, support dual voltage (110 - 240 volts) and only require a plug adapter. If you plan to use devices that are not dual voltage, you will need a voltage converter to avoid damaging them. 

Currency 

The official currency of Norway is the Norwegian Krone (NOK), abbreviated as “kr.” 

The following Norwegian banknotes are available in denominations of: 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000. Coins are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20. 

Norway is a largely cashless society with credit cards being accepted almost everywhere. 

Banking Hours (General)

Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM 

Some banks have extended hours on Thursdays until 6pm and some branches may offer limited services on Saturdays typically from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM 

ATMs

ATMs are readily available throughout Norway, and in remote areas. ATMs accept major international debit and credit cards, allowing you to withdraw Norwegian Krone directly from your bank account. Some ATMs may charge withdrawal fees, especially if you use a foreign card. It should be noted that Norway is a largely cashless society with credit cards being accepted almost everywhere. 

Tipping

Tipping is not required in Norway, as a service charge is typically included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. However, it’s customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip for exceptional service. Taxi drivers also appreciate small tips for their services. 

Credit Cards 

Popular credit cards are widely accepted in Norway, especially Visa and Mastercard. American Express and Diners Club are also accepted, but to a lesser extent. In some situations a chip-and-pin card is required, especially at self-service kiosks, ticket machines, and automated payment terminals. Carry multiple payment options in-case this may be a problem. Check with your credit card issuer to understand any foreign transaction fees that may apply when using it abroad.   

Drinking Water 

In Norway, including Bergen and Ålesund, tap water is safe to drink and of high quality. Tap water in Norway is subject to strict regulations and standards set by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority, and the water undergoes rigorous testing and treatment processes to ensure it meets the highest quality standards and is safe for consumption. 

Emergency Calls 

Primary emergency call number  - 112

Fire brigade - 110 

Ambulance and medical emergencies - 113  

Climate 

In Norway’s southern and coastal regions during late October and early November the temperature typically ranges from 0°C  to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). 

Time Zone 

Norway is in the Central European Time (CET) zone. 

In southern Norway, during this time of year, sunrise typically occurs around 7:30 AM and sunset around 4:30 PM. 

Attire 

Program days: smart casual 

Gala night: semi-formal 

Adventure/walking tours: comfortable adventure casual 

For more important information see Visit Norway.