Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
calorie intake to prevent frostbite. Treatment involves rapid rewarming. Avoid refreezing
and rubbing the affected areas.
Insect Bites & Stings
In northern Norway, the greatest nuisances are the plagues of blackflies and mosquitoes
that swarm out of tundra bogs and lakes in summer. Fortunately, malaria is unknown, but
the mental risks can't be underestimated, as people have literally been driven insane by the
ravenous hordes. Midsummer is the worst, and regular mosquito coils and repellents are
scarcely effective; hikers must cover exposed skin and may even need head nets to keep
the little buggers from making kamikaze attacks on eyes, nose, ears and throat. If you're
camping, a tent with mosquito netting is essential.
Mostpeoplegetusedtothemosquitobitesafterafewdaysastheirbodiesadjustandthe
itching and swelling become less severe. An antihistamine cream should help alleviate the
symptoms. Use a DEET-based insect repellent.
Rabies
Rabies, caused by a bite or scratch by an infected mammal, is found in Svalbard and (oc-
casionally) in eastern Finnmark. Dogs are a noted carrier, but cats, foxes and bats can also
be infected. Any bite, scratch or even lick from a warm-blooded, furry animal should be
cleaned immediately and thoroughly. Scrub with soap and running water, and then apply
alcohol or iodine solution. If you've been infected by a rabid animal, medical help should
be sought immediately.
Insurance
A travel-insurance policy to cover theft, loss, medical problems and cancellation or delays
to your travel arrangements (due to illness, ticket loss, industrial action etc) is a good idea.
Payingforyourticketwithacreditcardcanoftenprovidelimitedtravel-accidentinsurance
and you may be able to reclaim the payment if the operator doesn't deliver.
Notethatsomepoliciesspecificallyexclude'dangerousactivities'suchasmotorcycling,
skiing, mountaineering, snowmobiling or even hiking. Make sure the policy covers ambu-
lances and an emergency flight home. A policy that pays doctors or hospitals directly may
be preferable to one where you pay on the spot and claim later. If you have to claim later,
make sure you keep all documentation.
