Europe: The Rounds

[skyhive]

Hey everyone. I am currently planning a trip to BASE in Europe this summer. I am going to be there from May 11th to July 12th. Last weekend I was at my DZ talking to my BASE mentor, telling him of my itenerary. I told him I was planning to be in Norway from May15th-30th, and then do Switzerland, Italy, and France June 12th-June 28th. He basically told me that weather will still be very cold in Norway in May, and not very jumpable. I know it is far North, but I assumed in May it would be getting warmer? He insisted I reverse my dates for the south with the dates to be in Norway. He also insisted I bring snowshoes! And he said to bring a climbing harness, an ascender, and 30m of rope. Despite the fact that I know how to use that equiptment, I don't own any, and don't have the money to buy it on my tight budget. Do I need those things? His modification meant me being in Switzerland, Italy, and France from May 15th-30th, and in Norway from June 12th to June 28th. I respect his opinion very much, but just wanted to get some opinions from some other jumpers who are familiar with the seasons there. Is my mentor's scheduling the best way to do it? Keep in mind I have other committments between those dates, which is why I won't be in Norway in July.
My other confusion is how to figure out how to get everywhere. I know www.basekjerag.com has directions to Kjerag... But what about Lauterbrunnen, Mt. Brento, etc. I will be there for a good amount of time, but sadly am a stupid american who basically only speaks english! Any advice as to how I can find my way around the sites? Is a Eurorail pass the best way to travel between them? Thanks for all the help!

Blue Skies, No Winds!
Luke

[n0gear]

Well i'd probably aim july to norway. May is ok but if you're unlucky it could still get very cold. bring longjohns just in case. and u can buy thermal underwear from norway anyhow.

Few years back travelled all around the europe with eurorail and think that really is a great and easy way to travel. trains go everywhere here in the europe. Dont think the ticket is that expensive either. price also differs depending how many countries u include into it.

good luck and welcome to europe

[skyhive]

Thank man, that helps!

[GaryP]

With regard to that Swiss town in the valley... you'll always find jumpers in that town in the warmer months. Just ask around. A lot of jumpers stay at the Horner Pub and the Valley Hostel. If you think of staying at the V.H. then go for the rooms (NOT the dorms ). The Horner has a map on the wall with all the exit points but you'll still need a guide to get to each one. Dont forget to call Air Glacier 5min before each jump (033) 8 560 560.


g.