Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
NORWAY
See, darling, how the departing day
On a scarlet pillow is laid away;
How the sun has set
In clouds of gold and violet.
—FROM THE POEM “BEAUTIFUL CLOUDS” (1839),
BY HENRIK WERGELAND
Norway—Land of the Midnight Sun (there seems to be more than one, including
Finland and the state of Alaska). In the upper reaches of Norway during the sum-
mer, the sun never fully sets, generating extraordinary hues of scarlet, gold, and vi-
olet in the northern skies. The Norwegian Tourist Board succinctly describes a visit
to Norway as “A nature so incredibly beautiful one can't help but feel spiritual. Over-
all, a vacation in Norway feels like a spa treatment. Norway will capture your heart
and renew your spirit.”
More than 30 percent of Norway's 155,000 square miles are covered by forests,
rivers, and lakes, creating majestic landscapes and mystic fjords. Norwegian beauty
and charm are not confined to its landscapes—they are reflected in its people.
Norwegian is the official language, but most Norwegians speak English, and
some also speak French or German. Norwegians are friendly, fun, and eager to
make visitors feel welcome.
Norway is a constitutional monarchy with a Parliament, known as “Stortinget,” and
has been a member of NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) since 1949. Oil
and gas are the cornerstone of its economy, and its people have one of the world's
highest per capita incomes.
From art, beauty, and culture to hiking, skiing, and whale watching, Norway has
something for everyone.
For more information on Norway, contact the Norwegian Tourist Board in North
America:
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