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Norwegian fjords have been rated as the
world’s leaders in geotourism by Traveler
and National Geographic, and given their
highest stewardship rating. Norway’s
coastline is also selected as one of the
world’s 50 greatest places of a lifetime.
Some of the reasons for this is the pristine
and rugged landscapes combined with
authentic culture, architecture, and the
resurgence of distinctive local cuisine.
Norway is a rich industrial democracy with a population
of approximately 5 million. The country stretches all
along the western side of the Scandinavian peninsula. The
coastal regions have relatively mild winters and cool sum-
mers, while the inland regions have cold winters and warm
summers. Norway is a mixture of fertile land, bare moun-
tains, narrow fjords and a long open coastline. Though the
landscape may appear wild, it is welcoming, just like the
Norwegians. Our culture is recognized through the folk
costumes like the ‘bunad’ and folk
instruments like the ‘Hardanger fiddle’, through
celebrated classical artists such as Ibsen, Grieg, Undset
and Munch, modern artists like Nerdrum and Vigeland,
and no. 1 hit artists like A-HA and Røyksopp. With a
profound interest in exploration, Norway has many inter-
nationally recognized scientists like Nansen, Amundsen
and Thor Heyerdahl. Norwegians have also demonstrated
their mastery of the elements through technology. With
its hydroelectric power, natural gas and oil, the country is
among the world’s leading energy exporters.
Norway
Photo: Wolfgang Laschet