Beware the icebergs! * Sixtyexpress

You were looking forward to finding out about life in Newfoundland from the 28 inhabitants of L’anse aux Meadows but it wasn’t to be, Rough seas had you wobbling everywhere without getting on a tender and launching into the fog. All day the whistle was sending out a mournful cry. With all the sea chants available, I think each ship could have its own cheery tune. The mariner with us thought this was a bad idea….don’t know why.

Blue skies today and calm seas…..with icebergs floating past of all sizes. Greenland here we come. After warnings of a narrow steep gangway and getting on the tender…it all went smoothly. How could the Crew director have doubted us. Paamiut is our first stop in Greenland. It has a population of 1100 people. At the height of the cod processing,the population was over 4000.

Originally the area was settled by Norse people but the majority of the population now are of Inuit descent. Houses were traditionally turf houses ,then stone and now a mixture of concrete and wood.

Turf houses were mainly winter accommodation as they were well insulated and easy to heat. It would be cosy with so many family members in one small house.

Houses here are painted bright colours. Many are linked by wooden stairs and walkways . This must make it easier to move around in winter.

As it was Sunday, the town was quiet. There are lots of children living in the town judging by the number of toys and bicycles. There are few people around so perhaps Sunday is a day to stay home.

It is a Lutheran community. The church is Danish in design and colouring.

Within the town is a 9 bed hospital, doctor and 3 nurses. Children have a preschool, primary and secondary school and there is even a college for training sailors and other maritime workers. Hungry? You have a choice of two supermarkets , a cafe and restaurant. If you don’t want to visit these , you can catch fish or shoot game. We saw one man with a gun and a trolley with meat in it. All your needs met.

Gardening is not a thing here. The ground is rocky and the growing season short. Wildflowers fill any soil they can and the tundra is colourful too.

Guess what? They have a museum! I know you are excited……..no? It is only tiny and has examples of fishing and hunting equipment.

Now this is a decorative item you may consider for your lounge or family room.Certainly a conversation starter.

Artwork in the town is based on fishing or hunting.

Should you be considering a visit here, there is a hotel. It is peaceful but perhaps today’s visit is enough? The view from the lookout was beautiful.