According to extrareference, Norway is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. For tourists, it is attractive not only for its magnificent nature, but also for the special flavor of the locals. A huge number of attractions are scattered throughout the country and it is almost impossible to cover even the main ones in one trip. Small and quiet Norwegian cities create a unique atmosphere of comfort and tranquility. There are also excellent opportunities for active recreation. Small mountains covered with forests are located throughout the country, and bicycle rides can be arranged on them. In addition to hiking and cycling, you can go rock climbing, and fishing here will bring a lot of impressions, not a single fisherman will be left without fish. With the onset of winter, the ski resorts of Norway are overflowing with a huge number of tourists from all over the world.
Geography of Norway
Geographically, Norway lies in the northern part of Europe, in the west of the Scandinavian Peninsula. The northeastern part of the state borders on Russia, Finland and Sweden. The country also includes the Svalbard archipelago and about 50 thousand small islands, most of which are rocky areas. The relief of most of the country is represented by mountains overgrown with forests. One third of the territory of the state is located beyond the Arctic Circle. The coastline is heavily indented by fjords.
Capital
Oslo
Area
The area of Norway is 385.252 km. sq., occupies the 61st place in the world by area.
Population
4,990,600.
Currency
The national currency is the Norwegian krone (NOK).
Language
The official language is Norwegian.
Weather in Norway
The coastal regions of Norway are characterized by a temperate maritime climate, formed by the warm current of the Gulf Stream. The central regions of the country have a continental climate, with cold winters and hot summers. Beyond the Arctic Circle there is a subarctic climate. The amount of precipitation increases from east to west from 300 to 3000 mm per year. It is best to go to Norway in the warm season – from late spring to early autumn.
Transport
The transport system of the country is very developed and getting even to the farthest corner of the country is not a problem. A significant part of passenger traffic falls on sea and road transport. An extensive system of modern highways diverges from the capital. If you plan to travel long distances, it is advisable to reserve a ticket in advance. The metropolitan transport system is represented by 5 metro lines, bus routes, trams and ferries. Tickets for all types of transport are the same, you can also buy a daily ticket, but at night the fare increases. Taxi services in the city are relatively expensive and taxis operate only within the city. A distinctive feature is the acceptance of payments in a taxi by credit card. Taxis can be ordered by phone, stopped on the road or found at special parking lots.
Currency exchange in Norway
As of October 2011, the national currency rate is 1 USD = 5.89 NOK. The national currency is the Norwegian krone. Currency exchange in Norway is too unprofitable, almost everywhere a commission of 2% to 5% or a flat fee is charged. The most unfavorable conditions for the exchanger are offered at airports and travel agencies. It is best to use plastic cards, which are accepted almost throughout the country.
Electricity
220V/50-60Hz (European sockets).
Religion
About 89% of the inhabitants of Norway are Evangelical Lutherans, however, there is freedom of religion in the country and other religious movements are quite common.
Security
Norway is considered one of the safest countries in the world. The local population is incredibly calm and well-mannered. It is almost impossible to become a victim of a crime.
Health
You must have medical insurance with you. Vaccination is not required. Almost all hospitals are state-owned, but recently private pharmacies and hospitals are gaining more popularity. Drugs in pharmacies are very expensive and many of them are sold only by prescription.
