About Norway
- Capital: Oslo
- Population: 5.2 million
- Official language: Norwegian
- Land area: slightly larger than New Mexico
- Location: bordering countries include Sweden, with the North Sea and North Atlantic Ocean to the west
Norway offers an incredible mix of cultural and natural wonders. From cosmopolitan Oslo to its endless, snow-capped mountain peaks and deep fjords, there are endless choices in the land of the midnight sun and stunning northern lights. Getting around the country is easy, and its top-notch transit systems offer some of the best sightseeing opportunities. One of the world’s most prosperous nations, Norway seems to have a fascinating museum for just about every important aspect of its rich cultural and social history, including the Vikings, seafaring, fishing, arts and entertainment.
Read more in the CIA World Factbook.
About Bergen
The city of Bergen is located on the mountainous western coast of Norway. Bergen’s proximity to the sea tempers the occasionally harsh Norwegian weather, so Bergen enjoys mild winters and beautiful summers. The coast has also influenced the city’s commercial and cultural life. Bergen has a long, lucrative history in the shipping and fishing trades. Wealth from commerce has spawned a rich cultural life, with symphony orchestras, ballet companies and theater ensembles. The University of Bergen was established after World War II, and now 17,500 university students keep the restaurants and crowded discos hopping. The coastal region also offers opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Known as the gateway to the fjords, Bergen offers you access to Norway’s famous glacier-carved coastal valleys and snow-capped mountains, great for hiking and skiing.
Norwegian culture
Food
Norwegian cuisine is simply prepared and high in fats, providing the energy needed for the strenuous activities many Norwegians enjoy. Dishes incorporate many simple local staples. Dairy products are widely used, and sour cream is incorporated into nearly every type of dish. Most cheeses are made from sheep or goat milk. Dark brown goat milk cheese is one of the most common features of Norwegian food.
Traditional meals served in Norway are simple and hearty. Porridge is featured at meals throughout the day in many households. Open-faced sandwiches of fish, cold meat and a variety of cheeses are common both at home and in restaurants. Simple fish soups and stews are also readily available. Carrots, beets, boiled potatoes, sauerkraut and rye bread are typical accompaniments.
Customs and religion
The people of Norway may seem quiet and reserved, but they are very hospitable. In rural areas, farm families often keep a well-furnished guest house for friends and family who come to visit, and would fully expect visitors to stay for at least one night. When dining with a Norwegian family, proper manners are expected. Punctuality is very important. Guests should wait for the host to begin eating. The host will make the first toast, but guests are expected to reciprocate and toast the host in turn.
The Lutheran faith is very prevalent in Norway. Holiday like Christmas and Easter are observed and typically include a celebratory meal, though the features may vary by location to include local foods. On Christmas, a dish of creamy porridge is left out to appease the Christmas troll and protect the family from his mysterious tricks in the coming year.