Life on Svalbard: Finding Home on a Remote Island Near the North Pole

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Join Cecilia Blomdahl in Longyearbyen, Svalbard, the world’s northernmost town.

Located in the Arctic Ocean near the North Pole, Svalbard is a unique archipelago that boasts stunning wintry landscapes, endangered Arctic animals, and awe-inspiring natural phenomena. Since 2015, Cecilia has called this beautiful and remote location home. Along with her partner, Christoffer, and her dog, Grim, she has adjusted to life at the top of the world—where polar bears roam free and northern lights shine bright.

With evocative text and spectacular photography, Cecilia shares the joys and challenges of adapting to an inhospitable climate. Her story begins in the darkness of polar night, and the allure of her remote location is revealed gradually as sunlight returns months later. Through personal stories and firsthand advice, Cecilia offers insight for anyone seeking to thrive in unusual living conditions.

Whatever your location, Life on Svalbard will give you a deeper understanding of why people choose to live in extreme environments and perhaps help you find the hidden magic of where you live too.

Cecilia Blomdahl is originally from Sweden and moved to Svalbard in 2015. Her social media journey began when she started posting content online about living in an environment where polar bears rule the tundra and winter is spent in complete darkness. She has amassed more than 4 million followers across YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Cecilia’s content focuses on daily life on Svalbard in a positive and educational way.