Norway is a very liberal nation and it is possible to behave well just using a little common sense, however, during a trip you may notice some peculiarities and customs, different from those you are used to. Here are some tips to make your stay in Norway easier.
Steps
Step 1. Remember that Norway is a liberal country
It will be easy for you to adapt to Norwegian culture, just adopt the same attitude.
Step 2. Don't put on airs
Nothing prevents you from recognizing your merits, but there is a fine line between recognizing your own qualities and boasting in front of others. People who brag are considered annoying, be very careful especially when talking about money. If you want to talk about your qualities, try to do it modestly and kindly and never overdo it. There is nothing wrong with flattering others.
Step 3. Obey the traffic laws
Traffic in Norway proceeds more slowly than in other European states. It is mandatory to stop when someone is crossing the lines, not doing so is illegal, dangerous and also a sign of rudeness. Always drive carefully, keep a good safe distance and stop whenever a pedestrian is about to cross the road. When overtaking a bike make sure there is at least two meters of distance between your car and the bike. Fines are generally very high, especially for those who exceed the speed limits or ignore a red light (they can go up to around 700 Euros). Attempting to bribe an agent is an illegal and inadmissible action. The alcohol content allowed to drive is 0.02 percent.
Step 4. Do not honk the car horn if there is no real emergency
It is considered a gesture of extreme rudeness and is an action that can create unpleasant situations for you.
Step 5. Keep in mind that Norway is a country of left-leaning ideas
Do not refrain from discussing politics but try not to share far-right political thoughts and opinions in public.
Step 6. Dress informally
Norwegians tend to dress very casually. It is rare to meet elegantly dressed people, especially on weekdays, unless there are special occasions. This trend mainly affects men. Some professions require suitable clothing, lawyers for example dress in a formal way, while in most offices it is quite common to choose an informal look. You can wear jeans in almost any situation and combine them with a t-shirt or sweater.
Step 7. Be ready to accept strong opinions
Norwegians are very informed and follow news from all over the world, so do not be surprised to notice very strong opinions also on international issues, even concerning the United States, England or other countries of Europe or Asia.
Step 8. Adopt their own principles of equality
Norwegians tend to emphasize and take pride in their principles. Never treat anyone differently, don't make distinctions based on money or any other factor. Be nice to everyone and be kind to men, women, and children alike.
Step 9. In informal settings, call people by their proper names
With the exception of business meetings, in all informal settings you can safely call people only by their first name, even if you don't know them well yet. There is absolutely no need to add any titles, for example Herr (Mr) or Fru (Mrs).
Step 10. Be on time
Punctuality is extremely important. If you are in Norway for a business trip, always remember to show up for meetings on time, no later than five minutes later.
Step 11. Respect the distances
Do not invade the space of others, and remember that personal space in Norway is a bit more extensive than it is in many other countries. Don't get too close to people, even while queuing. Stretch your arms forward, that will be the distance you will have to keep to respect the person who is in front of you. Do not pass on to anyone unless you receive the consent of others, after asking politely. Do not express your opinion before others do it, and in any case do not expose yourself before you know at least a little about the people you are socializing with. Norwegians are usually very reserved and do not like to hang out with those who have very different opinions from their own.
Step 12. Learn more about Norwegian society and culture
Remember that Norwegians tend to be very reserved and quite introverted. It is not a sign of hostility but a way of behaving. In a bus, people will always try to occupy an empty seat rather than sit next to someone. Take the initiative when you want to make new acquaintances but remember to always be polite and discreet.
Step 13. Don't talk loudly and don't talk too much
Raising the volume of the voice is a sign of rudeness, especially in public. There is no need to whisper, but avoid shouting.
Step 14. Remember that Norwegian women are usually very emancipated and open-minded
In the summer they could dress in very skimpy clothes, it's a perfectly normal thing and not a way to attract men's attention. If you come from the United States or Europe you will certainly not be surprised, but if you come from a country in the Middle East, you may have difficulties instead. Remember that it is not polite to stare at a woman's body and stop and look at her curves, so avoid doing it. If you want to dress in traditional clothes instead there is no problem, Norwegians do not judge people only by the way they dress, even if they could connect to very conservative customs of the most radical ideologies.
Step 15. Speaking English will help you in many situations
Norwegians normally speak English quite well, especially people under the age of forty. Some of them also know a little German. Only with older people could you have communication problems.
Step 16. Remember that tips are not mandatory
Some guides may encourage tourists to leave a tip, but please note that this is by no means mandatory. Some Norwegians tip only when they receive exceptional services, others never do. Hardly anyone leaves a tip out of habit. The waiters in restaurants are paid pretty well, so there is no need. While some people round up the amount they pay a taxi driver, most people always wait for change.
Step 17. Use credit or debit cards
In Norway, cash is not everything. Most Norwegians pay almost exclusively with credit and debit cards. Even some businesses discourage cash payments. In addition, you can find almost everywhere ATMs to withdraw money. If you pay quite high commissions to withdraw money abroad, perhaps you will be discouraged from making withdrawals in Norway and you will prefer to carry cash with you during the trip.
Step 18. Avoid talking about religion
In Norway, religion is a completely personal choice and is a rather sensitive subject. You can make a general statement, but unless you are talking to a close friend, avoid any personal comments. If you have to face the conversation, try to be as discreet as possible and don't strongly support your opinions. It is rude to ask someone what their religion is, respect ideas, and don't indiscretion on personal faith.
