"Our adventure began when we started our search for 'our Volvo'. When we couldn't locate a 2003 XC70 here in the States, we decided to participate in the Volvo Overseas Delivery Program. It took just one phone call to Volvo to put us on track with a representative who handled the program. Within days of purchase confirmation, we were off to Gothenburg, Sweden. There we were met by a Volvo representative, escorted to our hotel and then to the factory right in town. Once we were instructed about the special features of our new 2004 Volvo XC70, the magic doors were opened, new car keys were handed and we were wished a safe journey.

Our road trip began when we headed to the northwest region of Norway, via Oslo, from Gothenburg, Sweden. Our decision was an easy one since we wanted to meet a friend on the small island of Frei, located off the Atlantic coast, and we heard so much about the scenic drive along the steep cliffs and slopes at the ocean's edge. Along the route, we would be driving through the Fjord region of Oppdal, famous for its majestic mountain ranges and rushing waterfalls.

The first day took us to the quaint fishing village of Smorgen, a harbor town, where sea breezes rocked the colorful fishing boats and whistled around the picturesque cottages. Strolling along the pier, we found a small café where we enjoyed a lunch of fresh seafood — just off the boat. Next stop was Oslo, the nation's capital where we stayed for 2 days. Then to Lillehammer, the site of 1994 Winter Olympics, and onward to the island of Frei, reachable only by a 3.2 mile (5.1 km) tunnel underneath the ocean floor. It was an awesome experience that really brought home to us the saying about "the light at the end of the tunnel". What a wonderful sight to finally see daylight and our friend waiting for us at the end.

It was a special treat to be shown around by our friend and his son. On the following day, our exploration continued on a one-lane dirt road with many sharp curves — all places a regular tourist would never find. It was comforting as we climbed to higher and higher altitudes to feel absolutely safe and secure in our car. Crossing over the top of a narrow stone dam, we passed fjords that were as still as glass as we approached the Mardalsfossen Waterfall. With more than 2,151 feet (600 meters) in elevation and with a 974 foot (297 meter) free-fall, it is one of Europe's highest, offering an inspiring conclusion to our day's adventure.

After saying goodbye to our friend, it was time to head back to Gothenburg. We zigzagged through numerous destinations via ferry rides from Molde to Geiranger. The highlight of our trip was the return journey through the roads of Dalsnibba, near Geiranger. There are hairpin turns, steep drops, no railing on either side of the road, and only a car-and-a-half wide lane with not even one small boulder on either side to instill any false sense of security. Both my husband I had to admit that the end result was worth the crying and laughing we did on our way up the mountain (me crying, Norman laughing). The view on top was unbelievable. According to local legend it is said that the devil tempted God here. Having our Volvo certainly eased the anxiety of the trip down the mountain, especially when a small tour bus was coming up while we were going down. Passing each other with about 6 inches between us and 1000 feet straight down on the other side gave new meaning to the words; 'This car can really hold the road.'

After arriving back at the Volvo factory we reluctantly turned over our keys to the car. The Volvo representative gave us our final documentation and specific information regarding the car shipment and delivery date in the States.

Once back in Connecticut, unbelievably on the exact date as promised, our local dealer, Chase Parkway Volvo in Watertown, handed us back our keys.

The entire experience from order to delivery was handled with extreme professionalism. There has not been a week since that we have not been approached by complete strangers who comment on what a beautiful car we have — and along with that we have our memorable adventure in Sweden and Norway."