Experience True Connection in The Nordic Countries

Editor’s Note: Monthly Ticket is a CNN Travel series that spotlights some of the most fascinating topics in the travel world. In September, we’re celebrating superlatives as we look at some of the world’s biggest, tallest and most expensive attractions and destinations.

Long overshadowed by Nordic cities like Copenhagen and Reykjavik, Norway’s unassuming capital is emerging as a must-see metropolis packed with cultural sites, incredible culinary adventures and enchanting attractions. Here’s some of the 10 best things to do in captivating Oslo.

Taking a year off and traveling cross country is a dream many never actually get to live out. Those who procrastinate, and explain away their road trip reluctance, often do so by citing real-life responsibilities and jobs. Taking a year-long vacation would mean neglecting a career. But what if you could do both? That’s what aspiring astrophotographer Anthony DeSantis did when he embarked on a one-year vanlife trip across the US — in a van he built himself — with the goal of turning his passion into a career.

A lavish dining experience is hardly a new concept. However, “lavish” all depends on one’s interpretation of the word. The ancient Romans' diet was mainly based on cereals, vegetables, legumes and cheese, while meat and fish were mainly consumed by rich people. The wealthy Romans commonly ate their puls with eggs, cheese and honey, and it was also occasionally served with meat or fish.

When wanderlust strikes, travelers often dream of jetting off to globally recognized cities, often overlooking lesser-known destinations that offer a blend of culture, history, and natural beauty every bit as good.

Benjamin Parent has worked at Tesla, on ships, and as a part-time tennis coach.

I've spent years writing about women traveling solo around the world, but I'd never taken a trip abroad on my own until this summer, when I spent five days in Iceland.

Petroleum may not seem the most obvious subject for a family day out, but that’s the case in Stavanger on Norway’s southwest coast. The capital of Norway’s oil and gas industry hosts the Norwegian Petroleum Museum, a surprisingly family-friendly attraction and one of the best things to do in Stavanger.

For the first time, a nation is allowing travelers to cross its border with a digital passport on their smartphone instead of a physical passport. While the trial is happening in Finland, the European Union wants at least 80% of citizens in the 27-country bloc to be using a digital ID by 2030.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Alan McKenna, the founder of Loch Ness Exploration, which recently undertook a major watch event searching for the fabled monster. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

These two countries consistently rank among the world’s best for livability, sophistication and happiness. So which one should you visit?

Imagine blocks of ice floating past as you come face-to-face with an imposing blue-tinted glacial wall. A puffin’s zany flight path draws your eye, before you spot the distinctive white bulge of a beluga whale breaking the water.