Norway
Norway, officially the Kingdom of Norway comprises the western part of Scandinavia in Northern Europe. The rugged coastline, broken by massive fjords and about 50,000 islands, stretches over 2,500 km. The Kingdom of Norway also includes the Arctic island territories of Svalbard and Jan Mayen.
Visa requirements
EU, US, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand citizens can enter Norway for stays of up to three months without obtaining a visa. Other nationals should consult their respective embassies regarding visa requirements before departing.
Oslo is the capital and largest city of Norway.
According to the Norse sagas, Oslo was founded around 1049 by king Harald Hardråde. Oslo is the oldest of the Scandinavian capitals. The Os-lo name is derived from the Norse words for ”God” and ”field”. Oslo is a vast city (175 square miles) and also one of the world’s most prettily sited capitals, located at the end of the 110 km-long (70-miles) Oslofjord. Starting at the innermost shore of the Oslo Fjord, Oslo sprawls up the sides of the mountains that surrounds it.
The Norwegian capital is inhabited by a relatively small population (500.000) by Continental European standards, but still cosmopolitan. To visit Oslo is a celebration of contrasts. In fact, there is so much to discover and fill the day and night time hours with that many visitors end up extending their stay.
Oslo has a rural landscape, fantastic views as well as a vibrant city life. During winter, inhabitants and visitors can ski along an impressive number of ski trails. During summer, energetic visitors can enjoy sea activities on the island beaches just offshore in the magnificent Oslo Fjord as well as walking, running or biking in the Vigeland Park or on 1860 miles of hiking paths.
Throughout the City are enclaves of shops. On your list of ‘must visit’ should include GlasMagasinet shopping mall. Also enjoy a Fishermen’s Wharf type of atmosphere at Aker Brygge.
In Europe, Norway was a comparatively late bloomer on the cultural scene. However, Norway and Oslo can present an impressive gallery of artists from the last 150 years; notably Gustav Vigeland (sculptor), Edvard Munch (painter), Henrik Ibsen (writer) and Edvard Grieg (music).
