Norway is a liberal country at heart, and you'll be warmly welcomed as long as you adhere to common sense norms. However, some customs may differ from what you're used to in Russia. Here are some tips to make your trip to Norway smoother.
Part 1
Step 1. Remember that Norwegian culture is primarily liberal, which will make it easier for you to understand their customs, but similar liberalism is expected from you as well.
Step 2. Avoid bragging about yourself.
Don’t brag about yourself. You can certainly highlight your positive traits, but avoid turning it into boasting, which is considered very rude in Norway. Be especially cautious when discussing money. Try to speak in a refined manner without exaggeration. However, there’s nothing wrong with complimenting others.
Step 3. Follow traffic rules.
Follow traffic rules. Norwegian traffic is not as hectic as in most European countries. Drivers are expected to stop at pedestrian crossings, and it is ignorant, dangerous, and illegal to do otherwise. Always drive carefully, maintain a good distance from the car in front, and be extremely cautious when passing near pedestrians. When overtaking cyclists, ensure there is at least a 2-meter gap between you. Fines for violations are very high, especially for speeding and running a red light (around $800). Bribing a police officer is unheard of in Norway. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.02.
Step 4. Don’t even think about honking at someone from your car unless it's an emergency, as this is considered very rude and can lead to unpleasant incidents.
Step 5. Norway holds liberal political views.
Norway holds liberal political views. However, if you lean more towards the right and are eager to defend your views in Norway, be prepared for heated discussions.
Step 6. Dress casually like Norwegians.
Dress casually like Norwegians. People rarely dress up on weekdays unless it's a festive occasion. This is especially true for men. Some businesses, like law firms, have a dress code, but this doesn’t apply to most companies, even in offices. You’ll be well-received in a neat t-shirt or sweater. Jeans are suitable for almost any situation.
Step 7. Be prepared to hear strong opinions.
Be prepared to hear strong opinions. Norwegian news covers most countries worldwide, discussing foreign politics, so don’t be surprised to hear something unexpected about your country.
Step 8. Be ready to encounter principles of equality.
Be ready to encounter principles of equality. Norwegians fiercely defend egalitarian policies. Never treat people differently based on their wealth or anything else. Treat everyone with respect, including children.
Step 9. Remember that it’s okay to address people by their first names in informal settings.
Remember that it’s okay to address people by their first names in informal settings. You can call people by their first names even if you don’t know them very well, outside of formal business situations. There’s no need to assign them titles like Mr. or Mrs.
Step 10. Don’t be late.
Don’t be late. Punctuality is very important. In business, you must arrive on time, no more than 5 minutes late.
Step 11. Respect personal space.
Respect personal space. Don’t invade people’s personal space. The intimate zone of Norwegians is usually larger than in most other countries. Don’t stand too close to each other, even in line. It’s generally expected to maintain a distance of an arm's length. Don’t jump ahead in line without politely asking those in front of you. Never voice your opinion unless a similar opinion has already been shared by most people in the room. Norwegians typically avoid those who express views that are foreign to them.
Step 12. Understand the manners and customs of Norwegians.
Understand the manners and customs of Norwegians. Remember that Norwegians are usually reserved and relatively unsociable. In buses, most prefer to sit alone rather than next to someone else. Be ready to take the initiative to get to know people, but be polite and respectful.
Step 13. Don’t raise your voice or talk too much.
Don’t raise your voice or talk too much. It’s considered rude to speak loudly in public places. There’s no need to whisper, but just keep an eye on the volume of your voice if you’re used to speaking loudly.
Step 14. Norwegian women are generally sexually and culturally liberal.
Norwegian women are generally sexually and culturally liberal. They dress quite openly in the summer. This is entirely acceptable and does not imply a hint of intimacy. If you're from Russia or another European country, you may find nothing surprising about this. However, if you practice Islam, this may not sit well with you. It’s also very important to remember that if a man openly stares at a woman’s figure and doesn’t look away when she notices, this is considered very rude behavior. No one will judge you if you dress formally.[
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Step 15. Most people will understand English in various situations.
Most people will understand English in various situations. Most Norwegians speak English very well, especially if they are 40 or younger. Some even speak a bit of German. However, you may find it a bit challenging to converse with older individuals.
Step 16. Remember that tipping is not obligatory.
Remember that tipping is not obligatory. While some travel guides suggest tipping, it’s completely unnecessary in Norway. Although some may tip for excellent service, many refuse. Very few Norwegians will tip for adequate service since waitstaff earn well already. While some people believe that taxi drivers should keep the change, in Norway, they are obliged to give you the exact change.
Step 17. Use credit and debit cards, as cash is not king, and some businesses do not approve of its use.
Use credit and debit cards, as cash is not king, and some businesses do not approve of its use. There are plenty of ATMs in Norway. However, travelers may prefer to use cash, as high fees will be charged for using a credit card abroad.
Step 18. Try to avoid discussing religion.
Try to avoid discussing religion. In Norway, religion is a personal matter, making it a sensitive topic for discussion. There’s nothing wrong with discussing this topic at a general level, but it’s best not to talk about religion personally unless you’re communicating with someone close to you. Many people consider it rude when someone asks about their religious affiliation. Never make assumptions about another person's faith.
