Cross-Cultural
Comparing worlds: Observations on life, work, and society across borders.
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Bergen - The Hanseatic trading network
Travel back to the Middle Ages when young German merchants ruled Northern European trade, and discover why Bergen’s dried fish was as valuable as gold.
Written by Dave July 02
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The Norwegian Pension System: A secure retirement - or do you still need to save yourself?
How does the Norwegian pension system actually work in 2026? Get a clear overview of the three pillars, new retirement ages, and expert tips on how to secure a comfortable and worry-free future in Norway.
Written by Dave June 09
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Norway vs. USA: Comparison for the Class Sleeper
From American “hustle culture” to Norwegian “kos” and brown cheese. Join me for an honest and humorous comparison of two very different worlds, seen through the eyes of an expat living 20 years in Norway.
Dave // BERGEN June 03
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Tax and Welfare in Norway: High Price, High Reward
Why do Norwegians pay 47% tax with a smile? Explore the 2026 figures and see how the tax system funds the world’s best welfare state for you and your family.
Written by Dave June 01
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Is Norway really that expensive? – For fjord lovers and families
Tired of Googling “cost of living in Norway” and hearing only about overpriced coffee and oil barons? Let’s look past the myths and dive into the real figures for 2025/2026. Discover why a high price tag often comes with a quality of life that makes it all worth it.
Written by Dave May 28
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Wooden Houses: From American Dreams to Norwegian Realities
From the sprawling suburbs of Texas to the rugged hillsides of Norway – this is the story of how I learned that “good enough” doesn’t cut it when the mercury drops. Join me for a look at sawdust, fussy details, and the difference between a house built to be sold and a home built to last.
Dave // BERGEN May 15
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Viking Raids in Red Cotton: A Father's Guide to the Norwegian Russe-Chaos
Get an inside look at Norway’s craziest tradition! As a father with roots in the U.S., I’ve gone from shock to excitement over the three-week-long “russe” celebration. Here’s my guide to overalls, “russe” bows, and mobile nightclubs.
Written by Dave May 14
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Norway: The oil nation that fleeces its own
In May 2026, 23 kroner per liter is the new normal. Why does one of the world’s top energy producers have Europe’s highest fuel prices? An honest look at why Norway fleeces its own.
Written by Dave May 13
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From Texas to Bergen: 22 Years in the Rain
Here is my partner in crime’s own account of his experiences from when he first arrived in Norway and Bergen. Dave is one half of The Norwegian Experience.
Dave // BERGEN May 11
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Voluntary community work in the Nordic countries and other countries
We Norwegians think of “dugnad” as our national pastime. That Saturday when everyone shows up with a thermos, tools, and a healthy dose of grumbling about the weather, to paint the garage or tidy up the cabin grounds.
Dave // BERGEN May 05
