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You may wonder, what draws 3,000 people to think that it would be a great idea to settle at 78 degrees north? You certainly have to be an adventurous person who likes a challenge or two. If you can't stand the winter, this is not the place for you. But I have to say that the warmth of the local community is making up for the cold weather. They stick together and they use each other's company to survive - as they have to in such a climate. In fact, there are long waiting lines for people who wants to work in the coal mines. That's the main reason why people would settle in Longyearbyen. The coal mine is the corner stone of the society and is essential for the town.

This picture of an old coal transport tram was taken from the "Burma Road" on my way to the airport (world's northernmost), that can be seen in the background. In the background you can also see the majestic and wild mountains on the other side of Isfjorden.