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Norway Culture
LifestyleLife in Norway today looks pretty idyllic, It's not a cheap place to call home, but citizens do enjoy one of the highest standards of living in the world. In exchange for their high tax rates, Norwegians get quality healthcare, beautiful open spaces, an excellent educational system & childcare for working parents.One might think that in a country so clean and organized the people would be a little reserved, maybe even uptight? Not the Norwegians - we found them to be warm and easy-going, with an excellent sense of humor. The fact that most of them speak English eliminates that barrier between cultures, and allows you to really interact with the locals, even share humor.
HistoryFrom 800-1050 the fierce Vikings sailed far and wide, pillaging, plundering, trading, and settling distant lands.Several factors fueled these waves of marauders - Norway's cold rugged landscape made agriculture difficult, a cultural tradition of large families burdened the resources, and only the eldest son inherited the family property, thus forcing younger brothers to seek their fortunes on the high seas. At the turn of the century, these same forces created widespread famine and poverty, fueling a mass exodus of Norwegian immigrants to America.
Archaeological finds reveal a Viking culture that was rich in handicrafts - the Viking Museum displays everything from whole ships to delicate object d'art.
MuseumsThe best deal for visitors interested in the wealth of cultural attractions in the capital city is to purchase an Oslo Pass - it gives you use of all public transportation and free admission to all museums.At The Norwegian Folk Museum, scenic paths wander past historic buildings collected from around the country and interactive displays bring 17th & 18th Norway century to life. There are demonstrations of ancient crafts and lots of interactive displays, great for kids and adults. One of my favorite places in Oslo is the Vigeland Sculpture Park, named for the artist, Gustave Vigeland, who created over 200 statues depicting the full range of human emotion. From the center of town, we rode bicycles to the park. We discovered that the large pillar in the distance was, at closer inspection, a mass of entwined, naked figures - maybe representing the human struggle to get to the top of the pile?
Get your Bearings in Norway. |
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