Ny-Ålesund is the world’s northernmost settlement, situated 79 degrees north in the north-western region of Spitsbergen; this town can be found on the southern bank halfway inside Kongsfjorden (The King’s Fjord).
Originally a coal mining settlement, currently, it is currently a research station accommodating 30 – 35 scientists from over ten different nations, living here throughout the year. But, in the summer, the population can rise to around 120 people.
The settlement has an airport, harbour, the world’s northernmost post office, a small local café, and a souvenir shop. In the summer, one can travel to Ny-Ålesund on a day trip by boat from Longyearbyen or visit as part of an extended multi-day trip on a larger vessel. In the winter, Ny-Ålesund is a stopping point for a few select skiing expeditions.
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