5 Tips For Traveling To Norway

5 Tips For Traveling To Norway

When traveling abroad it’s easy to see and learn about the major cultural differences between your home country and those you’re traveling to. However, not all differences are blatantly obvious; and sometimes you may not even realize the more subtle ones. So before you make your trip to Norway, make sure to remember these important points.

1. Avoid Large Tips

Although tipping is still common courtesy, there is a service charge included in your bill. Typically this amount is added by rounding to the next 5 or 10 NOK currency. Many tourists (and locals) still want to add a little extra, but while leaving a tip of 10% is considered generous, anything over that is considered arrogant.

2. Keep Your Personal Space

Unless you are a close friend or family member, keep touching of any sort to a minimum. Although a good handshake can be used in a greeting, NEVER kiss someone.

3. NEVER Drink and Drive

Although this may seem obvious, Norway has a very strict alcohol policy. Unlike America where the maximum blood alcohol content is 0.8 promille, Norway’s maximum blood content is 0.1 promille. Meaning even one beer can place you over the country’s legal limit; and the country enforces their laws, including hefty punishments for any violators.

4. Follow Proper Etiquette

Obviously, Norwegian etiquette is different than in the United States. However, there are a few rules you will want to keep in mind. As in most countries, don’t be late. However, you also don’t want to be early. Not to mention, no matter what you’re eating, use your utensils. Very rarely do Norwegians eat with their hands, and if you’re invited to a meal, make sure to leave after dinner. Although it is customary to help your host clean up, leave directly after.

5. Remember, It’s an Open Minded Country

Unlike a variety of other countries, Norway is considered very open-minded. Gay, straight, married, unmarried, there is no prerequisite for families or couples. Never assume anything about a couple; and NEVER criticize anyone for any reason. Criticism will only leave you being viewed as rude or uninformed.