When I was in fourth grade, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Norway for two weeks with my dad and grandma. My grandma and grandpa were both the first generation born in America in their families since both of their parents migrated from Norway. My grandma wanted so badly to see where her mother grew up and lived before she passed away. During my time in Norway, I learned about my heritage and gained an appreciation for the lifestyle Norwegians live. Lately I have been remembering how amazing my two weeks in Norway was, and I have been longing for its beauty, history, and all the other things about the beautiful country that make is so memorable.
1. Norway is one of the happiest countries in the world
Not only would the beautiful scenery of Norway make someone who lives there
happy, but Norway has one of the highest life expectancies, and their progressive social support and freedoms make it a wonderful place to live. It landed the second or third spot on almost every "World's Happiest Countries" studies done over the last ten years.
2. Fjords
One of my favorite activities I did while in Norway was go on a a boat ride through a fjord. Fjords are so beautiful, and their high mountain tops and low valleys of water make them extremely unique.
3. World's longest tunnel
Okay, so some people might not get as excited about this tunnel as me, but it is still super cool. The Laerdal Tunnel is a little over fifteen miles long, and the drive through it is the perfect opportunity to take a quick nap during the middle of the day.
Seeing the northern lights is a common task on many people's bucket lists, and Norway is one of the best places to see them. There are many locations in northern Norway that allow you to see the lights in all their beauty.
5. Varying seasons
One of my favorite traits of Norway is that the country has different seasons, but also that during the
summer you can ski and play in five feet of snow. I love changing seasons, and I loved being able to see snow in the middle of May.
6. Fishing towns
The countless number of little fishing towns is Norway is unreal. These quaint towns are so beautiful is almost hurts, and they're always wonderful to visit.
7. Mountains
If you are a lover of driving through mountains like myself, then Norway is the perfect vacation spot for you. This country definitely does not have a shortage of absolutely gorgeous mountains and views.
8. Syttende Mai
When I was in Norway, my
family and I came across a ginormous parade right in downtown Oslo. At the time we did not realize that it was the seventeenth of May, known as Syttende Mai, which is Norway's Independence Day. The day was filled was nationalism and pride of being from Norway. It was a really cool experience.
9. Norwegian sweaters
Not only are the traditional sweaters of Norway a classic indicator that you are Norwegian, I think they are also adorable with all their fun colors and patterns. Also, these sweaters are incredibly warm.
10. Train rides
Taking a train ride through the mountains is fun anytime of the year. Whether it's winter and there's snow, or it's spring and it's rainy, there is never a bad time to enjoy the scenery of Norway while riding on a train.
Okay, so some people might not get as excited about this tunnel as me, but it is still super cool. The Laerdal Tunnel is a little over fifteen miles long, and the drive through it is the perfect opportunity to take a quick nap during the middle of the day.
Seeing the northern lights is a common task on many people's bucket lists, and Norway is one of the best places to see them. There are many locations in northern Norway that allow you to see the lights in all their beauty.
