A Journey Across Continents to Witness the Northern Lights

Malik Al-Sultan, a 28-year-old freelance digital creator from Saudi Arabia, embarked on an incredible journey, traveling over 5,600 miles by road to see the mesmerizing northern lights in northern Norway. This arduous trip was a realization of a long-held dream, which he meticulously planned for more than a year. His decision to travel by road instead of flying was motivated by a desire to explore and experience various countries along the way.

Departure was on December 20, 2025. Al-Sultan set off in his Toyota Land Cruiser, starting from Saudi Arabia and traversing through Europe and Scandinavia, eventually reaching his destination in Bodø, Norway. His journey lasted three weeks and spanned 19 countries, offering him a vivid tapestry of cultures and landscapes as his route took him through nations such as Kuwait, Turkey, Serbia, Italy, Germany, and Sweden.

“It made the whole journey worth the trouble,” Al-Sultan said.

In the lead-up to this extensive trip, Al-Sultan dedicated significant time to preparing, ensuring his vehicle was well-equipped for the long distances, and obtaining vital travel documents like the Schengen visa, necessary for Saudi citizens traveling throughout much of Europe. He also saved up for expenses, which amounted to about $12,300, covering fuel, meals, and accommodations.

An unexpected detour added another layer to his adventure. Initially, the United Kingdom was not on his itinerary, but upon reaching London, he was charmed by the city’s scenery and ambiance, prompting him to extend his stay there for a couple of days.

Arriving in Bodø, Al-Sultan finally witnessed the stunning spectacle of the aurora borealis. The lights dancing across the sky were a breathtaking culmination of his arduous journey. Reflecting on his experience, Al-Sultan expressed that the journey itself held as much significance as the awe-inspiring sight he had traveled so far to see.

“I was so amazed [at] watching the lights,” he said.

After basking in the wonder of the northern lights, Al-Sultan shared his intention to return home, potentially exploring a different route back to Saudi Arabia. His adventure has captured the imagination of many, with social media users expressing admiration for his commitment and adventurous spirit.

In a separate, equally heartwarming tale, Bob Walker, driven by friendship, embarked on a remarkable one-day, 14,000-mile journey from Jakarta, Indonesia, to Arbroath, Scotland, to bid farewell to his longtime friend, Peter Gould. A terminal cancer diagnosis spurred this journey of goodwill and shared memories as the two friends reminisced over beer, cherishing the precious time together.