Svalbard, a remote Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, is known for its dramatic polar landscapes, glaciers, and wildlife, including polar bears and reindeer. Key sights include the town of Longyearbyen, the Svalbard Museum, and guided trips to see the northern lights or explore ice caves. The local currency is the Norwegian krone (NOK), and prices are generally high, reflecting the cost of importing goods to this isolated region. Weather is cold year-round, with winter temperatures often well below freezing and summer rarely exceeding 10°C (50°F), so warm clothing is essential.
Svalbard has limited transport infrastructure due to its remote location and harsh environment. Longyearbyen, the main settlement, has a few paved roads, and getting around town is relatively easy on foot or by car. However, there are no roads connecting the settlements, so travel between them requires boats, snowmobiles, or small aircraft, depending on the season. Public transport is virtually nonexistent, and most travel outside Longyearbyen is organized through tours or private arrangements.