Culture Shock
Understanding Norwegian Culture: Social Faux Pas and Blunders

Understanding Norwegian Culture: Social Faux Pas and Blunders

  We have all been there. You are standing in line when you overhear a person say something that makes you cringe, bite your tongue, and mark them as “obviously not from around here.” We have all witnessed the tourist (who is ruining things for locals) or the person who “just doesn’t get it.” Unfortunately,...
Norwegian Slang and Expressions used in Rogaland

Norwegian Slang and Expressions used in Rogaland

Slang, and common expressions, in all languages, but especially in Norwegian, depend on local dialect. Norwegian dialect can vary between places only a few minutes drive apart. Slang and dialect can make it difficult for new-comers trying to learn the language but they also represent a part of Norwegian culture. Once a Norwegian friend told...
Culture Shock: Overview

Culture Shock: Overview

Are you thinking about moving to Norway? Do you already live here, but still wonder why things are they way they are here. You should read our previous series ‘Culture Shock Norway’. Part 1: Food & Drink Have you ever wondered what Lapskaus, Fårikål or gløgg are? This article goes into detail about Norwegian food...
Raising Bilingual Children in Stavanger – A Personal Experience

Raising Bilingual Children in Stavanger – A Personal Experience

Raising a bilingual child has some challenges. It requires patience, perseverance and hard work. But there are also some rewarding factors associated with children learning more than one language simultaneously. Here are some pointers from my experience of raising children to be bilingual. Research all the options on if you wish for your child to...
Culture Shock Norway : Cost of Living

Culture Shock Norway : Cost of Living

This is the twelfth of a series which takes a look at the cultural differences you may experience when living in Norway. The cost of living in Stavanger is always a topic that comes up frequently on the minds of expatriates and in forums. This article aims to give you a brief overview of the...
Culture Shock Norway : Getting Around

Culture Shock Norway : Getting Around

This is the eleventh of a series which takes a look at the cultural differences you may experience when living in Norway. Walking Stavanger is a very small city and if you live in the city or around the city (for example in Bergsted, Våland, Eiganes, Stokka, Storhaug, etc), walking there takes only about 10...