Where to? Norway, Iceland

Why you’ll love it: One of the most incredible natural occurrences in the world, seeing the Northern Lights is high atop most avid travelers’ bucket lists. It’s a rare glimpse at the mysteries of the universe — although it’s not so much of a mystery anymore.

We have physics to thank for the the colorful patterns, which glow neon green, violet and pink against the dark night sky. While you can see the Northern Lights in several places near the north pole, Norway is often cited as one of the most photogenic and convenient destinations particularly around the Lofoten Island, Tromsø, along the North Cape and beyond.

They are notoriously unpredictable, but with cruise company Hurtigruten, and you’ll find plenty to keep you busy while you wait for an appearance. Mountain hiking, snowmobiling, dog-sledding, and RIB adventures are just a few ways you’ll explore the untouched landscapes, deep fjords, glaciers, and mountains of the region.

Fun fact: Chasing Aurora borealis — the Northern Light’s scientific name — is a lesson in patience. The best times are between late September and March, when the weather is cold and dry and nights are long and dark. Down the Norway Lights app for a little insider information.

Get there: SAS, Finnair, KLM, Cathay Pacific, and British Airways all fly to Bergen via European connections. SAS, Finnair, Cathay Pacific, Thai and Emirates go to Longyearbyen (with connections) for trips starting in Spitsbergen.

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