At the end of the last ice age, as polar caps retreated, the Sami were so enamoured with the ice that they followed it all the way north and still dwell there today, in the Sápmi region of Scandinavia. The haunting spirituality with which the wilderness affects the populace should not be underestimated; to understand the Norwegian people you must first come to terms with the vast, interior wasteland that looms large in their minds.
There are many ways to enjoy Norway’s captivating geography; take a cruise up the coastline to explore the intricate beauty of the country’s many fjords; head out on a cross-country ski tour to experience cool, clear air and witness some of nature’s finest glaciers; or simply get out somewhere remote and gaze skywards at the northern lights. There’s plenty to explore, even in cities such as the rapidly growing Oslo, the enchanting Bergen and the stunning Alesund.
The country’s natural resources, both from the land and the ocean, are the source of great wealth and Norway is the richest country in the world in terms of per capita capital reserve. In the wake of the 2008 financial crisis it also became widely regarded as one of the world’s most stable currencies. Yet Norwegians themselves are humble and self-effacing, as codified in the ten commandments of Jante Law. It is a highly egalitarian culture and one of the few in the world where women are genuinely on an even footing with men.
Getting there
There are several international airports, including Tromsø, Oslo and Bergen. Ferry links exist to Germany, Denmark, Iceland, Faroe Isles, Sweden and the UK. The European bus and train network provides connections to the rest of Europe – distances are large however and journey times long.
Getting around
Norway has nearly 50 airports and an extensive domestic air network. Trains are efficient but limited in coverage; long distance buses have much greater coverage and are just as comfortable. Buses, trains and ferries are often timed to link with each other.
Local information
Language: Norwegian
Time: UTC+1
Climate: Cool temperate. Warm summers, cold winters, rainfall throughout the year. Temperature: Max 23°C (July), Min -8°C (January). Rainfall: Max 95mm (August), Min 30mm (March)
Currency: Norwegian Krone (NOK)
Business etiquette: Greet with a casual, firm handshake and smile. Appointments should be made as far in advance as possible. Decisions are consensus driven. It is important that you meet deadlines and commitments otherwise you will be deemed untrustworthy and the business relationship will suffer.
Tipping: 5-10 percent, given only for excellent service.
Duty free: 200 cigarettes; 1l spirits over 22 percent; 1.5l wine; 2l beer below 4.75 percent; Small amounts of perfume; 10kg of meat, cheese and foodstuffs (except dog and cat food).
Safety: Be careful when exploring the wilderness; travel only with experienced guides. There is a low incidence of crime.
Laws: Assaults, even minor, are heavily punished. Drink driving and speeding attract heavy sentences. Drug possession, even small amounts, may attract a prison sentence.
Healthcare: Excellent facilities available. Hospital treatment is free but charges apply for visits to doctors and dentists. Insurance recommended.
Socket type: Type C
