Field notes | The Norwegian Experience

Allemannsretten: The Right of Public Access – Norway's best law

Welcome to Norway and “Allemannsretten,” the unique right that lets you roam, sleep, and pick berries anywhere without asking for permission. While other countries post “Keep Out” signs, we simply ask you to enjoy our nature and leave no trace behind.

Dave // BERGEN May 04

Matpakke -Packed lunch in other countries

After I wrote about our beloved, somewhat boring lunchbox last time, I had a thought: “Do they do the same thing in Sweden and Denmark?” The answer is… almost, but not quite.

Dave // BERGEN May 02

Friluftsliv – the Norwegian national passion

Norwegians have a special relationship with nature. We call it “friluftsliv,” and it’s more than just a hobby—it’s practically a way of life and a kind of national religion. Eight out of ten Norwegians go hiking in the woods and mountains every single year. And it’s no surprise. With the “Allemannsretten,” you can pretty much hike, paddle, or camp wherever you want, as long as you treat nature with respect and take your trash home with you.

Dave // BERGEN April 30

Dugnad – The most effective excuse for drinking coffee in the rain

There’s something uniquely Norwegian about us and the dugnad. Other countries have volunteer organizations too. We have a national pastime where we show up at nine on a Saturday morning to paint an outhouse that nobody really needs, while we complain about the weather and praise the neighbor for the fantastic buns.

Dave // BERGEN April 29

The Law of Jante, voluntary community work, and Norwegian friends

Welcome to Norway! Here, the weather is cold, but the people are warm—just not in the way Europeans and Americans take for granted. No, here you have to put in a little effort. And it often starts with understanding two of the most Norwegian things there are: “Janteloven” and “dugnad.” Once you figure those out, the path to true friendship is suddenly much shorter than you think.

Dave // BERGEN April 29

The Norwegian Matpakke

I’m curious: How many other countries have a source of national pride that’s basically just four slices of dry bread wrapped in curling wax paper? Welcome to Norway, where the packed lunch is more than just a meal. It’s a way of life and an identity. Researchers say it’s also one of the biggest changes in our food culture ever.

Dave // BERGEN April 28

Norwegian Food is Weird But Smalahove is Genius

I’ve been living in Norway for years. It’s been so long that I don’t even bat an eye when someone says “thank you for dinner” like it’s some kind of religious ritual. But trust me, Norwegian food customs can be downright bizarre at times. And I say that with love…mostly.

Dave // BERGEN April 27

When Dad dreams of the midnight sun and the rest want to go to Cyprus

Dad dreams of the midnight sun, while the rest of the gang wants cocktails by the pool.

I’m someone who gets butterflies just thinking about the bright nights in northern Norway.
You know that feeling when it’s 11:30 p.m., yet the sun is still up, hanging like a big, stubborn orange ball in the sky? The midnight sun, the silence, the fjords, the mountains, and the smell of seaweed and peat. The sky that never gets completely dark. It’s pure magic.

Dave // BERGEN April 26

Bergen at Its Absolute Best – My Secret Trick

After living in Bergen for 22 years, I’ve learned that if you want to get the most out of the city, you should come here in April or May.

Dave // BERGEN April 25

Operation Mountain Goat - I’m married to the Energizer Bunny

So, I went to see the doctor. Fortunately, it wasn’t a death sentence, but I was told that my vitamin D levels are as healthy as a basement apartment in November. On top of that, the doctor said my body could use some “increased mobility.” That’s doctor-speak for: “Stop rotting on the couch, you lazy bum.”

Dave // BERGEN April 24