The Arctic Circle

Another peaceful night. The light when I woke at 6.30 was lovely so I had a wander to take a few photos. We set off about 9 to head towards Lulea where we stopped to do a food shop (at Willy’s), our first since the small one in Germany for dairy products. The prices seemed similar to home. We then had a new experience - a visit to a Systembogalet (an alcohol pharmacy). The price was wine was pretty similar to home, but spirits were much dearer. An 18 Year old Highland Park was £100, Tanquaray £30. We splashed out on a bottle of Boden gin as we went through that town. (Nothing to do with the posh clothes catalogue where I used to get pretty dresses for Ella till I found out the owner donated to the Tories).

The highlight of the day was crossing the Arctic Circle on our way to Jokkmokk. (I’m pointing out a sticker with the Saltire on it.).

We’d hoped to visit the Sami Museum there but it was closing at 4 which didn’t give enough time. We had a wander then drove 6km south to a place we can park and dump waste and take on water. It overlooks a lake. As he was making enquiries at the cafe about paying to park (it’s free) a van with a UK sticker stopped. They are heading to North Cape, have 6 weeks, and seem to have a more strict itinerary than we have. They got here in 6 days from Dover! There have been a few heavy showers this afternoon and the temperature has dropped to 13C. Hopefully there will be no more leaks in the van.