Living in Norway
Norway is one of three Scandinavian countries in the Northern part of Europe. With a population of 4,9 million, Norway is not among the most crowded places on the planet. However, we very much enjoy the open spaces and our diverse nature, and visitors are often astonished by the active lifestyle in Norway. Do not be surprised if your Norwegian friends insist on going hiking, even if the weather perhaps is more suitable for staying inside.
Explore the unknown and challenge your own limits - the people of Norway have never been afraid of going their own ways. A thousand years ago, the Vikings sailed their ships south to the Mediterranean, east to the Black Sea and all the way west to Greenland. Many historians claim they even made it to Newfoundland in North America.
Today, Norway is a modern country where our explorative mindset is geared towards technology, innovation and developing a knowledge-based society. We also continue to further develop our oil and gas industry, fisheries and traditional industrial areas.
Thriving on the top of Europe
Norway is a European country even though we are not part of the European Union (EU). Through the EEA-agreement, we are fully integrated with the large European community at all levels from trade and economy to education and research. Norway is party to the Schengen agreement, which makes travel to and from Norway easy for people with legal residency in another Schengen country.
For the last four years, the United Nations (UN) has ranked Norway as having the highest standard of living in the world. This annual ranking is largely based on average levels of education and income, expected lifespan, and factors such as human rights and cultural freedom. Norway gets high scores for its high literacy rate in addition to educational levels and material wealth.
Cold country? Warm people!
Ok, the cat is out of the box - there are no palm trees in Norway! But in the summer we enjoy periods of warm weather, and due to the Gulf Stream the coastal areas are rather mild in the winter time. Nevertheless, you should bring warm clothing when visiting Norway in the winter.
Norwegians have a reputation for being somewhat introverted and difficult to get to know. However, this should just be seen as a misunderstanding based on first impressions. Norwegians are generally both welcoming and open-minded towards foreigners. If we do not take the first step to get to know you, do not be afraid to approach us for a conversation. We have a direct way of communicating and often state our opinions.
More information: A Brief Guide to Living in Norway 2010 (en)
