Greetings from Oslo, Norway! Today we’re sharing the five things you’re going to love, and five things you’re going to hate, about visiting Norway.
Norway Trip Hate #1: Norway is Expensive
People say Norway is a “once in a lifetime” experience. This is true, because nobody can afford to come back a second time! For example, expect to pay between $10 and $20 for a beer at a bar in Norway. An average fast food meal might be $15, and you’ll pay around $7 for a hot dog on the street. When you are planning your Norway vacation, be sure to do your research, and know that lodging, food and transportation will all be very expensive.
Norway Trip Hate #2: Weather in Norway
The weather in Norway is very chilly, and can trick you unexpectedly. Even May and June will be cooler, and the winters are very dark and cold. (The flip side is a lot of sunlight in the summer!) Be sure to pack lots of layers for your Norway trip.
Norway Trip Hate #3: Travel Times
When you plan your travels around Norway, it will take longer than you expect to get everywhere. With the fjords and varied terrain, it’s never a straight line from Point A to Point B, and the transportation (whether driving or taking a bus) isn’t necessarily fast.
Norway Trip Hate #4: The Service
People in Noway make a decent living, so they aren’t relying on tips for their income as they do in the States. So, the service isn’t overly attentive as you might be used to. They aren’t rude, or mean, but service isn’t their number one priority.
Norway Trip Hate #5: Little Things
Then there are just some little things you won’t expect in Norway, such as the number of beggars on the streets. You might also notice a lot of drinking or drunk people in the streets. And lastly, the food in Norway is really expensive, but not very exciting. There are a few iconic Norwegian foods, such as reindeer steak and elk steak, but otherwise there’s nothing worth mentioning.
Norway Trip Love #1: Fjords & Nature
The fjords and natural beauty of Norway are the best reason to come here. Don’t miss the chance to take a boat tour of the fjords, Norway has lakes and hiking, plus a lot of cool winter activities, too.
Norway Trip Love #2: National Pride
Norwegian are proud to be Norwegian. They get pretty excited for national sports and fans love to paint their faces. The national pride is really evident in the museums and historic sites dedicated to the Viking heritage.
Norway Trip Love #3: Norway is Safe, and Organized!
This is great for tourists. Norway is very safe, so you don’t have to worry about pickpockets, or thieves. It’s also very well organized. If something is supposed to be done, it will get done.
Norway Trip Love #4: Norwegians Speak English
Norwegians speak English really well, so that makes it very easy for English-speaking visitors.
Norway Trip Love #5: The Northern Lights
Seeing the Northern Lights in Norway is a phenomenal travel experience. If you visit Norway in winter, make sure you get outside after dark to experience the lights.
For more Norway travel tips, check out some of our other blog posts and videos: